 wednesday may 30,

Vientiane Times
2012 ISSUE 123
The First National English Language Newspaper
www.vientianetimes.la 4500 kip

Trade fair to boost timber processing industry Officials to

Times Reporters
A major furniture and household
goods fair officially opened in
Vientiane yesterday and the event
organising committee hopes it will
give a strong boost to the timber
processing industry.
The annual fair, which will run
until June 3, gives opportunities for
local and foreign furniture makers
in Laos to exhibit their products
for both domestic and international
customers.
It is hoped the expo will boost
consumption amid a growing market
for home accessories in Laos.
Several thousand locals and
foreigners are expected to flock to
the fair this weekend to see both
domestically manufactured and
imported furniture.
Most of the pieces on exhibit
are made from forest timbers, with
rainforest timbers and hardwoods
becoming rare throughout the world.
Some of the imported furniture,
meanwhile, will be made from
artificial wood.
The Ministry of Industry and
Commerce, Vientiane authorities and
the Lao Furniture Association hope the
fair will not only create a market for
furniture makers but also want people
to appreciate the value of rare timber,
especially as it is Arbor Day on June 1.
The event aims to promote the
government’s policy to process
wood prior to export, to add value to
Vientiane Mayor Mr Soukanh Mahalath (second right) and senior government officials look at wood products at the furniture
fair in Vientiane yesterday.
wood products and create jobs in the
process.
According to the fair organising
committee, 78 furniture makers from
the six provinces of Xayaboury,
Vientiane, Borikhamxay, Saravan,
Xekong and Champassak will
participate in the Furniture and
Household Goods Fair 2012, a 37
percent increase compared to the
previous year.
The trade fair will accommodate
161 exhibition booths in total, which
is a 50 percent increase compared to
last year. The organising committee
also expects that sales volumes will
see a 20 percent increase this year
due to growing demand for home
furniture. Last year, the fair generated
revenue of about 3 billion kip.
--Photo Khamphan
Vientiane Mayor Mr Soukanh
Mahalath, Deputy Minister of
Industry and Commerce Mr
Siewsavath Savengsuksa, Deputy
Minister of Agriculture and Forestry
Dr Ty Phommasack and a number
of senior government officials and
representatives of the wood processing
industry attended the official opening
at Lao ITECC yesterday.
register foreign
workers in
Vientiane
Souksakhone Vaenkeo
A pilot programme will be launched
in Vientiane to register both legal
and illegal foreign workers, before
extending the project to the provinces,
a senior government official said
yesterday.
The programme aims to address
the longstanding problem of
undocumented foreign workers in
Laos. A recent nationwide survey
suggested there are more than 54,000
foreign workers but most people
believe the true figure is much
higher.
Director General of the Labour
Management Department, Ministry
of Labour and Social Welfare, Mr
Khamkhane Phinsavanh told the
Vientiane Times that officials met in
Vientiane on Monday and agreed to
the pilot programme.
But a further meeting with the
Vientiane Leading Committee is
needed to seek suggestions on how to
implement the scheme.
“The meeting is expected to be
held in the middle of this month,” Mr
Khamkhane said.
Monday’s meeting was attended by
representatives from the ministries
Continued page 3

Laos needs a greener economy to protect the environment

Mr Somvang Thammavong offers
his opinion on how to encourage
green economic development.
Ounkham Pimmata
Construction and development
projects in Laos should include
environmental impact assessments,
as well as conform to the needs of a
green economy.
Director of the Innogreen
Company, Mr Somvang
Thammavong, made the comment
yesterday to mark World
Environment Day on June 5, under
the theme ‘Green Economy: Does it
include you?’
The United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP) defines a
‘green economy’ as one that results
in improved human well-being and
social equity, while significantly
reducing environmental risks and
ecological scarcities.
UNEP said a green economy
will encourage sustainable
economic growth while protecting
the environment and biodiversity.
Growth in income and employment
is driven by public and private
investment in projects that
demonstrate reduced carbon emission
and pollution, enhance energy and
resource efficiency, and prevent the
loss of biodiversity and disruption to
delicate ecosystems.
Mr Somvang explained that
environmental impact assessment
of projects was vital to protect not
only the environment, but also local
people’s living conditions and the
development of a green economy,
so the merits of each project can be
fully appreciated.
He said the government should
encourage project planners to follow
the country’s laws and regulations
which require every project to be
assessed on environmental grounds,
as it would help to ensure continuing,
sustainable development.
However, he said it was
essential that people who live near
development projects should be able
to recognise environmental problems
as well as cooperate in mitigating
their effects.
Mr Somvang said that at present,
global warming and climate change
were two major issues facing Laos,
so it was necessary for the country to
review and, where necessary, reform
the laws thereby forcing project
planners and developers to conform
to the needs of a green economy.
Developments in central Vientiane
should be strongly encouraged to ‘go
green’. For example, if a tall building
is proposed for construction, serious
consideration should be
Continued page 3

ÍçÖéÅèÈ Öà× ÍçÖéÀàÌÁíÌųÃ

LAO FREIGHT FORWARDER CO., LTD
Offers transport, forwarding and packing of
Inside

all kinds of outgoing and incoming goods by

overland, river, air and sea.
Always at your service for reliable, smooth and speedy delivery
Please contact us at: Authorized Cargo Agent for:
ASEAN defence ministers Km 3 Thadeua Road,
TG Thai Airways International
meet to strengthen Vientiane, Lao PDR. P.O. Box 3145
Japan govt extends support for Justin Bieber accused (opposite French School )
Lao disabled people cooperation of battering man Tel: 313321, 313351, 314524, 315165, 313392 Fax: ( 856-21 ) 314831
Email: laoffimp@laotel.com, laoffair@laotel.com, laoffexp@laopdr.com, laoffexp@
page 2 page 6 page 18 laotel.com, phasavath.somphone@gmail.com, www.laopdr.com, www.laofreight.com
2 Wednesday May 30, 2012
Home news
Media turn focus to
childhood development
Phoonsab Thevongsa
Thakhek, Khammuan
province: Print and digital
media personnel from
Vientiane and the southern
provinces met in Khammuan
province this week for a two
day workshop to discuss how
the media can contribute to
childhood development.
More than 30 participants
from various media outlets
are learning about the best
methods to involve and attract
children. Video clips, cartoons
and simple examples of voice
acting have been demonstrated
at the workshop.
The workshop is organised
by the Ministry of Information,
Culture and Tourism, with the
support of UNICEF, and is
being held at the Khammuan
Women Union’s Gender
Club.
Director of the Information,
Culture and Tourism
Department, Mr Bounthuay
Siripanyatho, said “This
Participants pose at the opening of the workshop.
No rescue attempt yet for fallen sacred tree
Phonesavanh
Sangsomboun
The Governor of Champassak
province has organised a
team to rescue a fallen holy
manikhoth tree before it is
swept away by the strong
currents of the Mekong at the
Khonephapheng waterfall.
The tree, which is perched
precariously on a rocky
outcrop in the middle of the
river between Thakhor and
Phapheng villages toppled
over on March 19.
A committee was set up
to establish the best way
to remove the revered tree
before it was swept away.
The roots still attaching it to
the rocks don’t appear to be
strong enough to hold it there
indefinitely.
Mr Sivone Vankhonevilay,
who is Deputy Director of
the provincial Information,
Culture and Tourism
Department, said they were
concerned about the tree and
engaged in urgent discussions
in an effort to save it.
“Because of the strong
currents at the falls, there is a
pretty good chance that it will
be washed away if we don’t
workshop is beneficial not
only for the development of
the nation’s children, it’s also
a great chance for participants
to learn and exchange ideas on
how they can contribute.”
An official from the
Research Institute of the
Ministry of Education and
Sports, Ms Chunla Khemthong,
said “The development of
pre-school children is very
important and necessary for
Laos as a developing country.
It’s necessary for children
to prepare for their next step
in primary school and is the
essential first step in human
resource development.”
The workshop is building
on some of the achievements
from a previous gathering held
in Vientiane in February, when
storytellers, artists, musicians,
singers, and radio and TV
producers met to discuss how
to stimulate children’s capacity
to learn. This was done to help
form relationships and help
children to reach their full
remove it very soon,” he said.
Mr Sivone, who is in
charge of the committee, said
they had tried to come up
with a solution for bringing
the tree to the riverbank. He
admitted it would not be an
easy undertaking, especially
as the river is rising and the
flow is getting stronger and
more dangerous.
As far as they know, no
one has been able to reach
the place where the tree lies
because the river is deep and
fast flowing, with rocks jutting
out everywhere. However, the
committee will work with
local people to see what can
be done.
If no other method is found,
their best option appears to be
to use a helicopter to winch
the tree out of the river and
carry it to the riverbank.
So far, no decision has
been made as to where to put
the tree, but the department
hopes to get permission from
the ministry to keep it in
Khonephapheng. Villagers
look upon it as the most
precious tree in the area and it
is an inherent part of the local
community. Many people visit
the area every year to pay their
potential.
Mr Bounthuay said
research shows that children
need a safe environment,
good nutrition, stimulation,
communication, and kindness
from the start. They also need
to learn good manners and
improve their communication
as they grow.
This is the third workshop
held on the topic. An
intermediary workshop was
also held in Luang Prabang.
The Lao government
has been trying to increase
educational opportunities
for young children and has Ambassador Junko Yokota (left) shakes hands with ADDP Project Manager Nobuko Yoshida after
included this field in their signing an agreement on Monday.
education development
strategy for the period 2009-
2015.
Ms Chunla said that by
2015, children aged 3-5
years old will be able to
attend kindergarten or pre-
primary school. The target
is for 250,000 children to Times Reporters
be enrolled in these schools
throughout the country.
respects to the sacred tree.
The history of the tree is Programme for the Disabled’ purchase.
unexplained but locals say
it has been there since they to May 31, 2013, the embassy trainees confidence in dealing with disabilities throughout
were born. Many people insist reported yesterday.
it has been standing for at
least 200 years since the era
of the Lane Xang Kingdom.
Sadly the tree’s longstanding
prominence came to an end
after a windy and rainy night.
The manikhoth features
as a holy tree in the ancient
Sanskrit epic of Phra Lak-
Phra Lam, or Ramayana.
A manikhoth tree has three
limbs. According to legend,
fruit eaten from the first limb
will bring eternal youth and
long life, the second will bring
great power and status, while
fruit eaten from the third limb,
pointing to the west, brings
bad luck – and the eater will
turn into a monkey.
Locals have no idea of the
scientific designation of the
tree, but many people believe
it is not safe to go anywhere
near it without risking life and
limb. They fear that the task
may prove too much even for
a helicopter, and the tree may
eventually return to where its
life began – in the waters of
the Mekong.
Vientiane Times
Japan govt extends support
for Lao disabled people
In the first phase of this also learned about appropriate
project, ADDP recruited about business conduct and skills.
The government of Japan 32 trainees, mainly from The demand for
has provided grant assistance Vientiane, and conducted wheelchairs and welfare
worth US$193,695 for an business and vocational rehabilitation equipment
Asian Development with training in the production is increasing in Laos, and
Disabled Persons (ADDP) and repair of wheelchairs and indicates a big chance for
project. other welfare rehabilitation disabled people to enter
The ADDP is a Japanese equipment, on five separate this area of business using
NGO which has been working occasions. their newly acquired skills.
in Laos mainly in the area These training sessions These circumstances are
of support for the disabled were very successful, and encouraging young disabled
since 1992, to carry out ADDP saw satisfactory results. people to acquire the
the “Employment Support Eighty percent of trainees necessary skills to become
Programme for the Disabled with disabilities were able to successful entrepreneurs in
(phase 2)” in Vientiane, find work or set up their own the foreseeable future.
according to the Japan business in Vientiane or their This year, as well as
Embassy to Laos. hometowns. the wheelchair-related
A grant contract for The programme focused training sessions, ADDP has
the project was signed on not only on vocational given bakery and beauty
Monday at the Embassy of training, but also on providing training to about 36 young
Japan in Vientiane between effective business training disabled women, with the
Ambassador Ms Junko Yokota using the On-the-Job training aim of encouraging their
and ADDP Project Manager method. independence.
Ms Nobuko Yoshida, in the In a virtual shop located Also, ADDP will
presence of other officials inside ADDP’s vocational collaborate with other NGOs
concerned. training workshop, trainees that are conducting similar
With this grant assistance, had the chance to meet with projects in rural areas of Laos,
ADDP will carry out the real customers visiting the and actively recruit more
second phase of the ‘Laos workshop for their repair people from rural areas to
Employment Support orders and wheelchair participate in the programme,
to encourage more social
in Vientiane from June 1, 2012 These encounters gave independence for persons
with real customers. They the country.
Volunteer Sub-Editors wanted
Vientiane Times seeks experienced writers/editors to edit copy for daily publication.
Applicants must be native English speakers, able to write perfect English, and have some
experience in journalism, editing or writing.
We require full-time assistance, with some evenings and Sundays, and will pay a
basic monthly salary.Please call in at Vientiane Times with your CV. Our offices are on
Setthathirath Road opposite Namphou fountain.
Lao Press in Foreign Languages
If you have a
Vientiane Times
Established 1994, Volume 18
Tel: (856-21)216364, fax: (856-21)216365
problem accessing
info@vientianetimes.org.la
Supervisor: Phon Thikeo the website, please
Savankhone Razmountry Mobile:55624351
Editor-in-Chief: phonethikeo28@yahoo.com
Thongsavath Chansombath
Deputy Editor-in-Chief and
Business Editor:
Ekaphone Phouthonesy
call directly to
Managing Editor: Tel: 217593, 020 55689209
Thonglor Duangsavanh
Tel: 021 216364
Copy Sub-Editor:
Elizabeth Winch Tel: +856-21
thonglorthonglor@yahoo.com Tel: 217593
News Editor: Graphic Designer/IT:
Phonekeo Vorakhoun
Mobile: 55599207
Malaythong Phayanouvong
Tel: 217593, 020 55729209
251617; 252629;
phonekeo@hotmail.com Finance Manager:
News Deputy Editor: Oudom Souvannasinh
Sisay Vilaysack Tel: 252630
Mobile:55615716 Marketing Manager:
vilaysacksisay@hotmail.com Phoutthasack Inthakoummane
Features Editor: Mobile: 020 55599209 Email: tai.vttwebmaster@gmail.com
sale.adv@gmail.com
Vientiane Times
Mr Khampadith Khammounheuang and Mrs Hajah Zaiaini Haji Noorkhan address the meeting.
Asean meeting mulls environmental
issues in development
Times Reporters
Some 70 representatives from
the 10 Asean member countries
met in Vientiane yesterday to
discuss measures to promote
a healthy environment and
sustainable development.
The two-day 4th Meeting
of Asean Working Group on
Environmental Education
is underway to discuss
future activities to promote
environmental awareness.
The meeting aims to address
pressing environmental issues
ahead of the establishment
of the Asean Community in
2015, with discussions to
conclude today.
The member countries
aim to promote education
and raise awareness on
environmental issues with the
hope of achieving sustainable
development in the region.
The meeting was co-
chaired by Mr Khampadith
Khammounheuang, the
Director General of the
Environment Quality
Promotion Department under
the Ministry of Natural
Resources and Environment,
and his counterpart from
Two arrested in Luang Namtha after munitions seized
Times Reporters
Luang Namtha provincial
authorities have arrested two
men after finding landmines
and bomb fuses in their
possession, in contravention
of Lao law.
The authorities’ suspicions
were aroused when a minibus
in which the two men were
travelling failed to stop when
waved down at a checkpoint in
Officials to register foreign...
of Home Affairs, Labour
and Social Welfare, Planning
and Investment and Public
Security, along with officials
from the Vientiane authorities
and the Government Office.
Participants agreed in
principle that meetings with
district and village authorities
should also be held to explain
the programme to local
officials who will carry out
the work.
“We have tried to address
this issue at the central level,
but it did not work,” Mr
Khamkhane admitted.
Monday’s meeting also
agreed on the planned launch
of a two-month registration
programme in district offices
starting in June.
Brunei, Mrs Hajah Zaiaini
Haji Noorkhan.
The participants also
reviewed the Asean Action
Plan on Environmental
Education for 2008-2012,
which was adopted at the
Ministerial Meeting on the
Environment in 2008.
The action plan provides a
framework to support national
environmental education and
raise awareness of the issues
in Asean’s 10 member states.
Mr Khampadith told the
Vientiane Times that Laos is
working to incorporate the
plan into its national strategy
and programmes to tackle
environmental issues.
Laos has adopted the 2020
environmental education and
awareness raising strategy
and the first five-year national
action plan on environmental
education, from 2006 to 2012.
As a result, environmental
education has been included
in both the formal and non-
formal school curriculum.
The regional action plan has
been designated to stimulate
Asean countries to achieve
sustainable development and
the goal of building a clean
the province’s Kewlom area.
Police gave chase and
radioed ahead to nearby police
posts, telling them to stop the
vehicle. They soon found the
minibus by the side of the road,
where the men had stopped to
unload the munitions.
Police arrested the two
men and seized six landmines
and a case of 1,000 bomb
fuses.
The pair were named as Mr
Workers will also be
required to undertake further
registration in Vientiane. A
worker is required to register at
both the district and Vientiane
offices.
Registration at the district
office gives illegal workers
two months to prepare
the documents required to
apply for a work permit for
submission to the Vientiane
office, to establish their legal
status.
“Officials attending the
Monday meeting agreed on
these general principles to
address the issue. However,
further revision could be
made in accordance with the
recommendations from the
meeting with the Vientiane
and green Asean enriched
with customs and culture.
It is hoped that the plan will
help to harmonise people’s
lifestyles with nature, and raise
awareness and understanding
on environmental issues to
ensure sustainable regional
development through public
participation.
In addition, participants
discussed preparations to
mark Asean Environment Year
2012, which is held every three
years. This year the event will
take place in Malaysia.
To mark the occasion,
Asean is organising an Asean
Eco-Schools Award to award
those schools that meet
environmentally-friendly
criteria. One school out of the
52 schools that have already
met the clean and green criteria
of the Vientiane Education
Department will be selected
to compete for the award. The
competition will be finalised
in Malaysia next month.
The Asean Working Group
on Environmental Education
meeting was supported by
the Department of Asean at
the Lao Ministry of Foreign
Affairs.
Soukan, 50, and Mr Souphon,
40, both from Thong-ou
village in the province’s
Luang Namtha district.
During questioning, the
men confessed they had
bought four of the landmines
from a Mr Noi in Thong-ou
village and the other two from
local authorities. The two men
are now in custody and will
face legal action in accordance
with the law.
from page 1
committee,” Mr Khamkhane
said.
It has been reported that
illegal foreign workers (mostly
from neighbouring countries)
gain entry to Laos in various
ways. Some are hired by
investment projects but do
not leave after the project
ends and instead seek other
employment, even though
their visa is invalid. Others
enter the country on a visitor’s
visa to visit relatives and then
take up work here.
Local people have
complained that many of these
illegal immigrants are taking
jobs that they are entitled
to, and work as hawkers and
hairdressers among other
occupations.
Wednesday May 30, 2012 Home news 3
Party official calls for better
opportunities for women
Somxay Sengdara the Office Deputy Head
responsible for Women’s
An official from the Party Advancement, did not deny that
Central Committee has women who want to hold these
called on authorities and positions should have the same
organisations to provide qualifications and experience as
better opportunities for the men. However, she did call on
advancement of women, in the authorities and government
line with the policies of the agencies to give women more
Party and government. opportunities to reach a higher
Deputy Director of the level.
Party Central Committee “The leaders in many
Office’s Organisational- government bodies do
Personnel Department, Ms not allow their female
Sivone Ounvongxay, made the
call yesterday, at the midterm
meeting of the National
subordinates to undergo
training for upgrading as they
think they won’t be able to
Commission for Women’s
Advancement (NCWA).
pass the course,” she said.
Programme No. 3 of the
Ms Khempheng Pholsena
chairs the meeting.
“The Party and the National Strategy on Women’s
government have established Advancement for the 5-year various authorities should give
the direction and policy for period from 2011 to 2015 them priority in advancement
the advancement of women, targets gender equality and the as they bear a much bigger
but these have not been comprehensive participation of burden than men in caring for
fully implemented by many women, including increasing the family.
authorities and organisations,” the number of women in “Because women usually
she said. decision-making positions. have more family matters to
A report on increasing the The National Assembly attend to than men, if we apply
number of women in decision- previously declared plans to equal criteria to both sexes in
making positions that was re- increase the proportion of the selection process, we will
released at the meeting shows women members to 30 percent not be able to reach the goal of
that the number of women of the total in the current strengthening equality and the
holding such posts still remains Seventh Legislature, and has comprehensive participation
small, at 8 percent. Of the 11 so far reached 25 percent. of women in society,” she
Politburo members, only one There are about 132,000 civil said.
is female, while only four servants nationwide excluding The midterm meeting,
females sit on the 50-member policemen and soldiers, chaired by NCWA President
Party Central Committee. of whom about 59,000 are Ms Khempheng Pholsena,
In lower positions, such women. was held at the International
as department director and its Ms Sivone pointed out that Convention and Training
equivalent, 73 of the total 518 even though women account Centre, to review the
are women, while of the 145 for almost half of the total implementation of women’s
district governors only 11 are number of civil servants, at advancement over the last
women. the senior level the number of six months and plan for the
Ms Sivone, who is also women remains small, so the second half of the fiscal year.
Laos needs a greener... From page 1
given to reducing maintain the natural balance. problems.
electricity consumption by Mr Somvang stressed However, he advised
installing solar panels. that if the government were that the government must, if
When a development is to support the green economy necessary, force projects to
expected to use a significant concept, it would help to adhere to the law, as well as
amount of timber, the sustain economic growth and make local people understand
developer should ensure that reduce the cost of corrective that they are an essential part
the forests to be depleted are
replanted where necessary, to
environmental actions and
addressing human health
of the process to protect the
environment.
Get hot news in Lao and 3 Day Weather Forecast
English from Vientiane Times Xieng Khuang
on your mobile phone via LTC, Date
Temperature in (C)
Min Max
Weather
ETL and Unitel networks. 30/05/2012 20 28 Heavy rain
31/05/2012 19 27 Scattered showers
01/06/2012 19 27 Scattered showers
Luang Namtha
Date
Temperature in (C)
Min Max
Weather
30/05/2012 21 33 Light rain
31/05/2012 20 33 Heavy rain
01/06/2012 19 32 Isolated showers
Date
Min
Luang Prabang
Temperature in (C)
Max
Weather
30/05/2012 24 33 Isolated showers
31/05/2012 23 33 Isolated showers
01/06/2012 23 34 Scattered showers
Subscribe now! Vientiane
Temperature in (C)
Date
Min Max
Weather
For LTC Subscribers 30/05/2012 23 31 Isolated showers
Just send ‘R’ to 1135 for
31/05/2012 23 30 Isolated showers
news in English 01/06/2012 22 30 Scattered showers
For Unitel Subscribers Just send Savannakhet
‘ON’ to 929 for news in Date
Temperature in (C)
Min Max
Weather
English 30/05/2012 24 32 Thunder showers
‘ON L’ to 929 for news in Lao
For ETL subscribers type
31/05/2012 23 31 Light rain
01/06/2012 23 32 Isolated showers
‘ON’ and send to 2246
Pakxe
Date
Temperature in (C)
Min Max
Weather
For more information phone
30/05/2012 24 31 Thunder showers
020 5607017
Office: 216364 or 217593
31/05/2012 23 30 Light rain
01/06/2012 23 31 Isolated showers
4 Home news Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

JICA provides supplies for flood-hit schools News in Brief

Phaisythong Chandara
Brand new furniture and
textbooks will soon be in use
at 42 schools that lost supplies
in last year’s floods, thanks
to the Japan International
Cooperation Agency (JICA).
JICA will deliver the
equipment to the schools in
time for the start of the next
academic year.
A handover ceremony
for the supplies took place
yesterday at the Ministry
of Education and Sports,
witnessed by Deputy Minister
Mr Boualane Silipanya,
Vientiane Education and
Sports Department Director
Mr Somphou Keopanya, and
other invited guests.
The equipment is now
being readied for distribution
to schools in Vientiane and
the provinces of Xayaboury,
Khammuan, Savannakhet
and Champassak, education
officials said.
The total cost of the
assistance is US$61,744,
including 439 desk sets for
students, 85 desks and chairs
for teachers, 75 blackboards,
and 7,500 textbooks.
Speaking at the handover,
JICA’s Chief Representative
of the Laos Office Mr
Masato Togawa said that last
year Laos was hit by tropical
storms Haima and Nock-
Ten. The subsequent floods
caused US$500,000 worth
of damage in the education
sector.
“The damage was very
serious and not only affected
facilities and school furniture,
Mr Masato Togawa (left) presents education supplies to Mr Somphou Keopanya.
but also forced schools to cooperation, there are three
ongoing initiatives: the
close for a long time,” Mr
Togawa said. project for Improving In-
He noted that the floods service Teacher Training for
had also led to a reduction Science and Mathematics
in the number of students Education, the project for
and lowered the standard of Supporting Community
education. Initiatives for Education
“However, as we are aware, Development, and the
education is an important provision of an Education
aspect of social development, Adviser to the ministry to
and development of the assist in the development of
education sector is also a major education policies.
Millennium Development In the area of grant aid,
Goal target,” Mr Togawa the Improvement of School
said. Environment project is
To help Laos meet this building 168 primary and
secondary schools in five
goal, Mr Togawa said JICA
remains committed to assisting southern provinces. JICA
the improvement of basic has also dispatched a number
education through a variety of of volunteers to work in the
projects. education sector.
In the area of technical On behalf of the
The Ministry of Health
The Food and Drug Department
government of Japan, Mr
Togawa said he hoped the
new equipment would ease
the difficulties in the flood-
damaged schools and would
be used to improve the quality
of education.
“JICA will continue to
work together with the Lao
government and related
organisations to meet the
education challenges facing the
nation, especially improving
the quality of education,” Mr
Togawa added.
Mr Somphou said
he strongly believed the
assistance would help to
improve teaching and learning
systems in the targeted
schools, bringing them up
to regional and international
standards step by step.
Savannakhet announces literacy districts
Between 90 and 95 percent of school-age children in
Thapangthong, Phalanxay and Vilabouly districts in
Savannakhet province are enrolled in full-time education
and almost everyone aged between 15 and 40 is literate. A
ceremony was held on May 23 to declare the three districts as
places where people can read and write, after having attained
a primary level of education. The ceremony was attended by
Deputy Minister of Education and Sports Associate Professor
Dr Kongsy Sengmany, provincial Deputy Governor Mr
Kaysone Khounnalth, and other guests. The districts have
addressed illiteracy problems in line with the ministry’s
National Education Reform Strategic Development Plan.
Children have been encouraged to attend school with the lure
of new educational equipment provided by the ministry and its
development partners. The measures are part of the strategy to
reform the education system and provide universal access to
primary education by 2015. However, there are still challenges
to address because many children in rural areas aged 6 to 10 do
not attend school.
Champassak improves health outcomes
The improvement of health infrastructure in many districts
of Champassak province has seen significant progress after
a campaign was launched to help people still suffering in the
wake of tropical storms Haima and Nock-Ten. Fewer people
now have to travel long distances to seek treatment when they
fall ill because health services are now available at district
hospitals and healthcare centres. Some people living in remote
areas have been given medical and first aid kits, and gravity-
fed water systems have been installed in their villages, so
they now have access to clean water for everyday use. Health
facilities have been upgraded throughout the target areas, while
90-95 percent of people now have access to clean water and
sanitation, and almost all children have been vaccinated against
preventable diseases.
Huaphan school to offer more vocational courses
The Vocational Training School in Huaphan province plans
to provide more courses for local people and unemployed
workers. Improving workers’ skills and ability is part of the
province’s strategic development plan for 2011-15, which was
discussed at the 13th National Administrators Meeting for
Technical and Vocational Education held in Vientiane recently.
The plans include providing courses in cooking, weaving,
mechanics and other fields, to help workers develop their skills
to meet local standards and strive towards international ones.
The programme will help promote skill development and raise
the standards of the Lao workforce, helping candidates to
compete for jobs both domestically and internationally.

Vacancy Announcement for

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Specialist - Pharmaceuticals Short Term Consultancy

Job titile: Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Specialist - Pharmaceuticals Short Term Consultancy (Expected vacancy)

The Ministry of Health (MOH) of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), through funding secured under Round 8 grant
from the Global Fund to Fight HIV/Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria is seeking to recruit a short-term Good Manufacturing Practice
(GMP) Specialist to provide technical assistance and support for the Food and Drug Department (FDD), the agency responsible for
ensuring quality assurance for the manufacture and supply of pharmaceuticals and medical commodities.

Funding has been secured to improve GMP through training including visits to local manufacturing sites.

The position is short term based in Vientiane Lao PDR. The assignment will be for two weeks over two periods and is scheduled
between late June-July 2012 and October 2012, and includes per diem expenses and airfare as necessary.

The GMP Specialist will develop/review current GMP policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) develop training materials
and deliver short workshops to FDD staff and QA/QI staff of local manufacturing sites.

Notebook computer must be provided by Consultant.

LCD and other presentation equipment will be available.

Selection Criteria

Qualifications: Certified GMP Auditor (current)

Masters degree in Manufacturing / Science related field

References must be available.

English language proficiency written and spoken.

Experience
• Development of training materials and workshop experience in GMP / WHO Certification
• Practical experience in auditing of pharmaceutical manufacturing sites to GMP / WHO standards.
• Development and implementation of SOPs related to GMP licensing / inspection.
• Relevant technical experience in government regulatory or scientific agencies.
• Strong practical experience with Microsoft Windows / Open Office applications.
• ASEAN and/or developing country experience.

Terms of Reference
• Review SOPs for GMP.
• Assess GMP knowledge and application.
• Develop and deliver training materials for GMP, including pre, and post evaluations.
• Liaise with other agencies in the MOH such as the national testing laboratories, and with local manufacturers.
• Conduct structured field visits to manufacturing sites.
• Deliver a report at the conclusion of consultancy to FDD with recommendations to improve licensing and inspection for GMP\
How to apply

This position is expected to be available pending finalization of Round SSF grant agreement.
Candidates must submit a cover letter and detailed CV via email or fax to the address below by 8 June , 2012. Two referees will be
requested from those candidates selected for interview.
Candidates must be available for work during July 2012 & Oct 2012.
Applications by email:
Dr. Sourisak SOUNVORRAVONG
Project Coordinator GF FDD SSF
The Bureau of Food and Drug Inspection
Ministry of Health
Tel.: 856 21 254609
Fax.: 856 20 56520193
E-mail: s.sourisak@yahoo.com

Please CC Application to:

Mr. Keopouthone Procurement Unit PR Office Email keophouthone@theglobalfundlao.org
Mr. Khamlieng PHOMMAVONG Procurement Unit Email: p.khhamlieng@yahoo.com
Mr. Bounleuarn DOANGDEURNE M&E Unit Email boun_002@yahoo.com
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 Photo news 5
A woman inspects carvings on display at Lao-ITECC in
Vientiane yesterday during the annual trade fair organised
by the Lao Furniture Association and Vientiane Department
of Industry and Commerce. The fair aims to promote local
products and create opportunities for buyers and sellers to meet
and identify what is in demand.

Representatives from the 10 Asean member countries pose for a group photo yesterday during the two-day 4th Meeting of the
Asean Working Group on Environmental Education held at the Lane Xang Hotel in Vientiane, which ends today.

President of the National Commission for Mother and Child Ms Khempheng Pholsena (centre)
yesterday poses with representatives from companies and organisations that have provided
Tourists buy souvenirs at the Sisaket Museum in Vientiane after enjoying their experience there. financial support for activities to mark Children’s Day on June 1. The donors include Save the
The souvenirs on offer include a book detailing the history of the temple and postcards featuring Children (30 million kip), LXML Sepon (21 million kip), EDL-Gen (10 million kip) and Lao
various tourist attractions. Holding State Enterprise (5 million kip).

JOB VACANCY
Multinational mineral drilling company is seeking applications from Lao Nationals with relevant
qualifications and experience for immediate starts at our Sepon Mining site (Savannakhet
Province) as following details:
(1) Data Entry Officer (based atSepon Mining site, Savannakhet Province)
This position will report to Workshop Supervisor
• Perform a variety of clerical office duties such as: maintaining files, keeping records, preparing
schedule, compiling data for reports.
• Searching and investigating information contained in files, processing department documents,
posting records and typing correspondence and reports from rough drafts.
• Communication skills levels of English and be able to translate and interpreting English languages.
• Computer competency skills on MS Word, Excel, Outlook, IE and etc…
• At least 2 years working experience in Administrative or data files.
• Be able to live in the project site at Sepon, Sevannakhet Province.
• Experiences in maintenance or data fields are desirable.
(2) Site Administration Officer (based atSepon Mining site, Savannakhet Province)
This position will report to Site Manager
• The Site Administrative Officer is responsible for ensuring that all administrative aspects of the
duties and tasks outlined and requested are undertaken in accordance with Boart Longyear policies,
procedures and practices.
• Providing effective administration to the internal/ external operation and management team.
• Organizing and booking of all travel both domestic & international as required for the operational and
management team.
• Be responsible for a daily drill report and staff timesheet
• Assisting or managing site expenses/ payment records and invoices, then report to accounting/
financial section.
• Be Lao national male or female
• Relevant academic qualifications
• At least 2 years of relevant experience, preferably with an international company
• Good level of English language writing, reading, speaking and listening
• Experience working with local and expatriate workers
• Strong IT ability, administrative skills and experience using MS office and web based applications
Attractive salary and AGL insurance will be provided based upon experience.
To apply, email to: tawat.tadang@boartlongyear.com Or RecruitmentLaos@boartlongyear.com
or deliver your CV and a statement explaining how your qualifications and experience match the
position requirements, and expectation, to the address below:
No 135, Unit 15, Ban Phonthan Neua, Saysetha District,
Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R, P.O.Box 6681
Before 31st MAY 2012
Education Sector Working Group (ESWG)
Secretariat - Policy and Operations
Coordinator
The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) manages
the Australian Government’s development assistance program in the Lao
PDR. AusAID Vientiane is looking for a Policy and Operations Coordinator
to provide technical and logistical support to the ESWG chair (the Ministry of
Education and Sports - MoES) and Co-chairs (AusAID and UNICEF). The
ESWG is the coordination mechanism that oversees implementation and
monitoring of progress of the Education Sector Development Plan. The
position will be based at the Department of Planning Cooperation within the
Ministry of Education and Sports and reports directly to the MoES.
Are you interested?
Do you have:
• A Post-graduate degree in education, social science or other relevant
discipline?
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in the education sector in Laos?
• Knowledge of Lao Government systems?
• Knowledge of Aid Effectiveness approaches?
• Well developed analytical, conceptual and critical thinking skills?
• Excellent coordination, negotiation and presentation skills?
• Communication skills in both Lao and English languages?
These are some of the criteria that the selection panel will be using to select
the appropriate candidate. If you have this sort of background, you could
apply. Application instructions are available on the Australian Embassy’s
website www.laos.embassy.gov.au.
Deliver your application to the AusAID Office in the Australian Embassy at
Km 4 Thadeua Road or email it to vientiane.recruitment@ausaid.gov.au
Closing date for applications: 2nd June 2012
Information on AusAID programs is available at:
http://www.ausaid.gov.au
6 Wednesday May 30, 2012
Region
ASEAN defence ministers meet to strengthen cooperation
PHNOM PENH (Xinhua) --
The defense Ministers from
the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations (ASEAN)
gathered here on Tuesday to
discuss and adopt measures and
mechanisms to enhance defense
and security cooperation in the
10-nation bloc.
The 6th ASEAN Defense
Ministers meeting, under the
theme “ Enhancing ASEAN
Unity for a Harmonized and
Secure Community”, was
chaired by Cambodian Deputy
Prime Minister and Defense
Minister Tea Banh.
Speaking at the opening
of the meeting, Tea Banh
said the meeting aimed at
strengthening and building
the ASEAN Political Security
Community by 2015.
“As the time is drawing
nearer, it is very vital for
us to further promote our
cooperation for solving all the
regional conflicts, capacities
gap, and discrepancies in
cooperation,” he said. “We
also need to establish various
potential mechanisms for
stabilizing our region.”
The minister also
emphasized that cooperation
on security and among the
armed forces of ASEAN
member states with ASEAN
partners are of greatest
importance in order to
ensure peace, stability, and
development for people in the
region.
Tea Banh said that the
key topics in the meeting
included the consideration and
adoption of the concept paper
on reviewing of frequency of
ASEAN Defense Ministers’
Meeting with its eight dialogue
partners from once in every
3 years to 2 years, and the
exchange of views on regional
and international defense and
security issues.
He said the meeting also
reviewed the progress in the
cooperation in maritime security,
military medicine, humanitarian
assistance and disaster relief,
peacekeeping operations and
counter-terrorism.
In the meeting, Tea Banh
also proposed an initiative on
ASEAN defence ministers pose for a group photo during the opening ceremony of the 6th ASEAN
Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Tuesday.
ASEAN Civil War Free Zone,
aiming at ensuring that the
region is continuing to build
peace and stability, and to
completely eliminate all civil
wars.
At the end of the meeting,
there will be a joint statement
on enhancing ASEAN unity
for a harmonized and secure
community.
The ADMM, held for the
first time in 2006 in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia, is the
–Photo AP
highest defense mechanism
within ASEAN. ASEAN
groups Brunei, Cambodia,
Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia,
Myanmar, the Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand and
Vietnam.
Vientiane Times
In brief from Asia
News Network
NUS now no. 2 in Asian
varsity rankings
SINGAPORE (The Straits
Times) --The National
University of Singapore
(NUS) has moved up one
spot to No. 2 in a ranking of
Asian varsities released on
Monday.
The exercise by London-
based education and career
consultancy Quacquarelli
Symonds lists Asia’s top 300
universities based on criteria
such as academic reputation,
number of papers per faculty
and the ratio of student to
faculty.
Jakarta to develop
‘ASEAN diplomatic zone’
INDONESIA (The Jakarta
Post) --The Jakarta
administration says it will
develop Kebayoran Baru in
South Jakarta into a long-
awaited special zone for
diplomatic affairs to support
ambassadors to the ASEAN
in the capital.
“So far, the diplomatic zone
we have [in Jakarta] is in

Myanmar to re-grant visa-on-arrival starting June Kuningan. We realize that a

YANGON (Xinhua) --
Myanmar will re-grant visa-
on- arrival starting June 1,
aimed at facilitating foreign
travelers and promoting the
number of tourists arrival in
the country, official sources
said on Monday.
The visa-on-arrival will
be issued to those visiting
Myanmar on business, transit
and as a tourist.
Such visa will be
granted to travelers from
27 countries including nine
other member countries of
the Association of Southeast
Asian Nations (ASEAN),
including Australia, Britain,
China, Japan and the United
States.
Business visa will be
allowed for 70 days, while
tourist visa for 28 days and
transit visa for 24 hours.
Visa-on-arrival was once
halted in September 2010
ahead of then Myanmar’s
general election in November
of the year.
According to official
statistics, the number of
tourists arrival at Myanmar’s
Yangon International Airport
alone reached 359,359 in
2011 which is expected to
reach 1.5 million in 2012.
Other statistics of
Ministry of Hotels and
Tourism show that such
arrival at all entry points
totaled over 800,000 in 2011,
up more than 24,000 or 3
percent from over 790,000
in 2010.
specific area for diplomatic
matters is needed, thus,
with the presence of the
ASEAN Secretariat in
Kebayoran Baru, we think
that this area should be
developed,” Izhar Chaidir,
the head of spatial planning
for the Jakarta Development
Planning Agency, said on
Monday.

Job Announcement Job Announcement

Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (Gbx ABT/ULg), Hanoi University of Agriculture (HUA) and
CEDAC are going to implement a three-year project funded by the European Union (EU) titled “Promoting appropriate technology
for smallholders to increase food security among ethnic groups in Cambodia and Lao PDR". The objective of the project is to
improve poor people nutritional intake and health by diversifying and increasing quality food production thanks to appropriate
technologies, while encouraging food trade and sensitizing households to diet balance principles.
In the framework of the project, we are seeking qualified staff to fill National Coordinator position.
National Coordinator (1 position): Position based in Attapeu province with field visits in the villages of the following
districts: Phouvong, Saysettha, Sanamxay, Sanxay.
Purpose of the position:
Responsible for coordinating project implementation in Laos (Attapeu Province); to manage local team (about 20 people) and to
act as main link agent with Cambodia team.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor degree or equivalent in Management and/or in fields related to rural development, including agriculture and
community development
• At least 4 years of experience project management position, preferably in a development project
• Strong ability to manage staff under control to achieve the goals of project
• Ability and experience in administrative and financial management preferably following international donors procedures.
Experience with EU-funded project is a strong asset.
• Excellent ability to plan, organize and coordinate activities
• Strong experience in reporting including financial report
• Good level of English is mandatory (speaking, listening, reading and writing)
• Knowledge in Food security; Nutrition, CBOs and/or rural development
• Excellent initiative, team spirit and cross cultural sensitivity
• Willingness to work in rural and remote areas
Main duties and responsibilities:
1 Management:
- Human resources management of local team:
o 4 Thematic Supervisors themselves coordinating 8 Extension Officers and 5 Public Services Extension Officers
o one Accountant and Administrative Assistant
o two Drivers, one Security Guard and one Cleaner
- Daily work coordination and follow-up of Thematic Supervisors staff and Accountant & Administrative Assistant (check
work compliance with requirements)
- In close collaboration with the implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA, prepare the Quarterly Work Plan and
Budget (QWPB) in relation to the Project design and available financing, and oversee the implementation of the activities
as per the approved QWPB;
- In close collaboration with implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA and the expatriate staff, participate in all
activities and budget reporting activities, whether for internal management or for audit and evaluation purpose
- In close collaboration with implementing partners of Gbx ABT;HUA and ULB, and the expatriate staff, participate in all
strategic planning and implementation procedures activities
- In close collaboration with the implementing partners of Gbx ABT and HUA and expatriate staff, participate in all project
technical, administrative and financial management activities, including procurements and follow-up of contractual,
budgetary and financial agreements
- Receive and arrange for reproduction and circulation of reports, studies and other Project documentation from all
involved staff as appropriate
2 Local interface:
- Local administration management (relationship with provincial authorities; juridical back-up and any other activities in
link with national legislation compliance).
- Ensure local office functionality (supervise maintenance work and necessary equipment)
- Ensure information sharing with all stakeholders
- Coordinate the translation of key documents from Lao to English and English to Lao as needed ( identify translator(s),
check translation provided)
- Supervise and arrange for all activities related to local logistics as appropriate
3 Technical topics management and follow-up
- Technical management of the Thematic supervisors staff (technical guidance in their activities) in line with project
purpose as described in the project proposal approved by the EU.
Interested candidates, please send cover letter and CV (indicating on the title “National Coordinator position”) in English to:
annick.schubert@gmail.com
in cc to pipetit@ulb.ac.be and Philippe.Lebailly@ulg.ac.be and vdton@hua.edu.vn
Only short-listed candidates will be informed about further selection process.
Closing date: 31 May 2012
Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech (Gbx ABT/ULg), Hanoi University of Agriculture
(HUA) and CEDAC are going to implement a three-year project funded by the European Union (EU) titled
“Promoting appropriate technology for smallholders to increase food security among ethnic groups in Cambodia
and Lao PDR". The objective of the project is to improve poor people nutritional intake and health by diversifying
and increasing quality food production thanks to appropriate technologies, while encouraging food trade and
sensitizing households to diet balance principles.
In the framework of the project, we are seeking qualified staff to fill Thematic Supervisor position.
Thematic Supervisor: Position based in Attapeu province with fieldwork in the villages of the following
districts: Phouvong, Saysettha, Sanamxay, Sanxay.
Purpose of the position:
Responsible for providing thematic technical related to Food security and Nutrition and CBOs (Community
Based Organizations) support to the field coordinators, coordinating activities, facilitating monitoring surveys and
overseeing quality control.
Qualifications:
• Bachelor degree or equivalent on rural sociology or related fields
• At least 4 years of experience in related fields
• Knowledge in Food security and Nutrition, CBOs and rural development
• Ability to manage staff under control to achieve the goal of project
• Good level of English (speaking, listening, reading and writing)
• Excellent initiative, team spirit and cross cultural sensitivity
• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate activities
• Willingness to work in rural and remote areas (even over night)
Main duties and responsibilities:
• Establish, follow up, review, adjust and implement work plan for Food security and Nutrition; CBOs; and
M&E (Monitoring & Evaluation) in Lao and English and coordination with relevant project staff.
• Implement, follow up and evaluate impact of activities and coordination with relevant project staff.
• Summarise activities conducted at the end of the month in a report and plan activities with respective
project staff for coming month in Lao and English.
• Establish and analyse project documentation such as reports, assessment, data base and Operation and
Monitoring (O&M) data.
• Ensure very good communication between project office and field offices, especially for Food security and
Nutrition; CBOs; training/capacity building and M&E activities for implementation of result mentioned.
• Conduct regular field visits to follow up and measure process of implementation.
• Establish bill of quantity and its specifications, quotations and its analysis for purchase of necessary
implements to conduct above mentioned activities successfully.
• Coordinate activities with project office, field offices and relevant stakeholders to ensure efficient
implementation of all project activities.
• Arrange meetings, appointments and workshops.
• Write progress reports in Lao and English.
• Ensure that regulations and procedures set by project and donor is respected by relevant staff and
stakeholders.
• Other tasks may be required if needed.
Interested candidates, please send cover letter and CV (indicating on the title “Thematic Supervisor position) in
English to:
annick.schubert@gmail.com
in cc to pipetit@ulb.ac.be and Philippe.Lebailly@ulg.ac.be
Only short-listed candidates will be informed about further selection process.
Closing date: 31 May 2012
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 7
World
Serbia rivals agree to cooperate
on new government
The Egyptian BELGRADE, Serbia (AP)
special -- Serbia’s new nationalist
election president and the liberal rival
committee likely to be the next prime
announces
the result in
minister assured the country
the Egyptian Monday that they could
presidential overcome deep differences and
election, create a stable, pro-European
at a press Union government.
conference Tomislav Nikolic defeated
in Cairo.
–Photo AP
his predecessor Boris Tadic in
the presidential election earlier
this month, and Nikolic’s
nationalist Progressive Party
won the largest number of
seats in the 250-member

Egypt’s Brotherhood scrambling to parliament. But because

Tadic’s Democrats gained
enough allies to form the next
Newly elected Serbian President Tomislav Nikolic, left, shakes hands
with former president Boris Tadic during meeting in the Serbian

broaden support Cabinet, Nikolic is expected

to be forced to name Tadic as
premier-designate.
presidency building, in Belgrade, Serbia on Monday.

“We have one common

–Photo AP

Tadic has said his goals

CAIRO (AP) -- The Muslim hurt. The office is in a Cairo or about 21 percent. The position of prime goal and that is for Serbia include improving living
Brotherhood is scrambling to residential neighborhood. To get the support it needs, minister is stronger than that to move forward so that its standards for the impoverished
broaden its appeal to liberals, The Brotherhood’s the Brotherhood must tone of the president, a largely citizens can live better,” population and fighting
leftists and Christians after candidate, Mohammed Morsi, down its religious rhetoric and ceremonial role that cannot the president told reporters. unemployment and corruption
official election results showed will go head-to-head against offer far-reaching concessions, draft laws. “I think that you can view — problems that contributed
that the Islamist group’s Shafiq, also a former air force such as protecting the right to The two bitter political Serbia’s political stability in to his loss to Nikolic. The new
candidate will face ousted commander, in the June 16- protest and strike, election- foes met Monday, a day after the future with much more president, meanwhile, has
autocrat Hosni Mubarak’s last 17 runoff. They were the top watchers said. Tadic announced the start of optimism.” claimed to have shifted from
prime minister in next month’s vote-getters in last week’s first None of the 13 candidates negotiations on the formation Prior to losing to Nikolic being staunchly anti-Western
runoff for president of Egypt. round of voting. had been expected to get the of a new government that in the May 20 election, Tadic to pro-EU.
Violence flared late Announcing the final more than 50 percent of the would leave Nikolic without served as president for eight Serbia is struggling
Monday when several hundred results, election commission vote needed to win outright. real power. years. Tadic said he would not to evade recession, create
people ransacked the Cairo chief Farouq Sultan said Still, Morsi’s top finish “We had very good talks,” include Nikolic’s nationalists jobs and cut spending in an
campaign headquarters of the that Morsi won close to 5.8 was a surprisingly strong Tadic said. “This was a meeting in his new government, economy that has a 24 percent
ex-premier, Ahmed Shafiq. million votes, or almost 25 showing, because he was not only about the transfer further diminishing Nikolic’s unemployment rate, falling
They smashed windows, percent, while Shafiq garnered widely viewed as a weak of power ... but about what role. The Progressive Party currency and mounting foreign
threw out campaign signs, tore 5.5 million votes, or nearly 24 candidate and because the Serbia’s institutions should said that a future Serbian debt. Tadic said the post of the
up posters and set the building percent. Finishing third was Brotherhood’s popularity has look like in the future.” government that excludes prime minister “is now a very
on fire, according to witnesses leftist candidate Hamdeen eroded recently because of a Nikolic also sounded an them “will have a problem hot seat” because these are
and security. No one was Sabahi with 4.8 million votes, series of missteps. optimistic note. with legitimacy.” “very challenging times.”
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF)
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF) Department of Planning
Department of Planning Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry ADB Project Number: 33356
ADB Project Number: 33356
Job Announcement
Agriculture Extension Specialist (National)
Job Announcement
Watershed Management Planning Specialist (international) Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities of the
predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The expected
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be integrated
of the predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane
expected impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10 Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture
integrated watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces and Forestry Vientiane.
(Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10 Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane. general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.),
MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.), Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Review and update strategies for the administrative, technical and financial sustainability of Khet Extension Service Centers
Duties and Responsibilities: (KESCs).
2. Develop and monitor performance indicators for the sustainability of KESCs.
1. In collaboration with the agricultural extension component, assist IWMU in establishing working relationships. 3. Facilitate gender- and ethnic-disaggregated baseline and progress data.
2. Assist IWMU in disseminating and getting feedback of the Watershed Landscape Continuum Plans (WLCPs) through village 4. Facilitate the project support to 23 Khet Agriculture Extension and Training centers.
development planning processes. 5. Jointly with the micro finance team, Identify the 50 target villages.
3. Review and update the three consolidated WLCPs. 6. Prepare a mechanism for, and facilitate the implementation of, issuing joint land use certificates (with both male and female names).
4. Examine and recommend mechanisms for incorporation and integration of the three consolidated WLCPs to the land use planning 7. Review the Planning, Implementation, Monitoring and Evaluation of the Extension Component activities of previous Nam Ngum
processes. River Basin Development Sector Project NNRBDSP.
5. Review the implementation status of the Watershed Management Development Plans and WLCPs handed over to the local 8. Finding solutions to support the farmers in acquiring capitals needed for the Agriculture production and Income Generation Activities.
authorities. 9. Assist the district teams in processing agriculture extension and livelihood development plans.
6. Prepare a plan for the integration of WLCPs through village development planning processes and district land use zoning to the 10. Give guidance in compliance with ADB safeguard policies and project documents.
local development plans. 11. Train resource persons for PRA training, Agriculture Extension training
7. Review the implementation status of the coordination agreement reached between IWMU/MAF and IWRM/DWR under MoNRE 12. Disseminate the Lao Extension Approach.
and advises on the strengthening of the cooperation. 13. Assist in producing Annual Work Plan and budget, quarterly work plan and budget.
8. Working closely with the Agriculture extension and livelihood development component (Component 3) to ensure that Watershed 14. Review or conduct Training Need Assessment for the district staff and villages volunteers.
Management Landscape Continuum plans are fully applied. 15. Develop training plans, study tour plans, training curriculum and training materials.
9. Review the Sub basin profiles in the view of the current livelihood and socio economic development status. 16. Design on-farm training and demonstrations for Agriculture Production Systems.
10. Develop and implement a capacity development plan for the IWMU and district staff. 17. Coordinate with other components and sectors under project for integration of the activities.
18. Facilitate incorporating sub-basin management concepts into district development plans.
Qualification Required
Qualification Required
1. Master’s Degree in Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental Science, Watershed Management. 1. At least with the University education (BSc) in Agriculture, Agriculture Economic, Forestry, Animal Husbandry, Veterinary
2. At least 10 years experience in Upland Area Development dealing with Shifting Cultivation Stabilization, Land use Planning and 2. 5 years experience in the Agriculture development and livelihood development project in the upland areas of Laos
Land Allocation, Watershed Management, Environmental management in Lao PDR and Southeast Asia. 3. Experience in conducting PRA, Developing Village Development Plans
3. Demonstrated experience and ability to manage, analyze and optimize data and information acquired/provided by various sectors. 4. Understanding on Land use planning, forestry, NTFP Domestication, Marketing
4. Experience in PRA, Participatory Development Concepts and Approaches. 5. Understanding of LEA
5. Ability to operate Word Processing and Data Processing Computer Software. 6. Experience in designing and conducting Agriculture On-farm research activities
6. Good interpersonal and communication skills especially in the Lao and multi-national working environment. 7. Familiar with the culture and livelihood system of ethnic minorities of Laos
7. Proficient in English. 8. Working knowledge of English (Communication and reporting)
8. Working Knowledge of Lao. 9. Experience in research/extension linkage and in complex, interdisciplinary projects
10. Computer literate in Word Processing, Data management, Spreadsheet, GIS Preferable
Assignment Duration 3 person months. 11. Good heath and willing to work in the upland remote areas with limited amenities
Assignment Duration 12 months (with three months probation) intermittent distribution over three years period.
Duty Station
Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with an Duty Station
intensive field visits to the project site which will take 30% of the consultant’s inputs. Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with an
intensive field visits to the project site which will take 70% of the consultant’s inputs.
The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00
hrs 15th June 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00
website www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric hrs 15th June 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB
file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted. website www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric
file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted.
For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address. For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address.
Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding
Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com mailto:nnrblao@gmail.com
8 Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF) Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF)
Department of Planning Department of Planning
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
ADB Project Number: 33356 ADB Project Number: 33356

Job Announcement Job Announcement

Watershed Management Planning Specialist (National)
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities of the
predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The expected
impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be integrated
watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin.
The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10
Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane.
MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.),
Senior Micro Finance Specialist (National)
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities of the
predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The expected
impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be integrated
watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin.
The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10
Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane.
MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.),

Duties and Responsibilities: Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Assist IWMU in updating the three consolidated Watershed Landscape Continuum Plans(WLCPs). 1. Select the 50 target villages, conduct PRAs and produce village development plans.
2. Assist in incorporation of the watershed management development plans and WLCPs to village and district land use planning 2. Institutionalize the Village Development Revolving Funds VDRFs established under Nam Ngum River Development Sector
processes. Project NNRBDSP in 16 districts, as sustainable financing institutions through transforming to the District Credit Unions
3. Assist in integration of the Watershed management development plans and WLCPs to the formal local development plans at (or other appropriate financial institutions) and register with the Bank of Lao under the Government Formal Regulation.
village, khet and district levels. 3. Support National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Service NAFES Financial Management Team in the planning and
4. Monitor the implementation status of the coordination agreement reached between IWMU/MAF and IWRM/DWR. implementation of the capacity building plan.
5. Working closely with the Agriculture extension and livelihood development component (Component 3) to ensure that WLCPs 4. Support NAFES Financial Management Team in the preparation of 3 years VDRF operational plan.
are fully applied. 5. Train NAFES Financial Management Team and District financial management teams (DFMTs).
6. Updating the Sub basin profiles in the view of the current livelihood and socio economic development status of NNRB as 6. Support NAFES Financial Management Team and DFMTs for implementing the recommendations of the VDRF phase-out
recommended by the senior consultant. strategy.
7. Assist in the implementation of the capacity development plan for the IWMU and district staff. 7. Support establishing Reporting System of Financial Management Teams.
8. Translate the reports and documents to Lao for the Government officials in the fields. 8. Support establishing a Management Information System to monitor performance of district and village level savings and credit
activities.
Qualification Required
Qualification Required
1. Bachelor Degree in Agriculture, Forestry, Environmental Science, Watershed Management. • Master’s Degree in Agriculture Economic, Finance and Banking, Economy.
2. At least 5 years experience in Upland Area Development dealing with Shifting Cultivation Stabilization, Land use Planning and • At least ten years of experience in Micro finance programme operation among the farming communities and rural remote areas.
Land Allocation, Watershed Management, Environmental management in Lao PDR and Southeast Asia. • Experience with the International Financial Institutions support Micro finance programme.
3. Demonstrated experience and ability to manage, analyze and optimize data and information acquired/provided by various sectors. • Demonstrated training skill, Previous experience of working in the NNRBDSP Project areas.
4. Experience in PRA, Participatory Development Concepts and Approaches. • Understanding of the correlation of the Agriculture and livelihood development, Ethnic diversity, environmental impacts,
5. Ability to operate Word Processing and Data Processing Computer Software. poverty reduction challenges.
6. Good interpersonal and communication skills. • Computer literate, Ability to operate data base programmes
7. Demonstrated training skill • Proficient in English
8. Proficient in English. • Good heath and willing to work in the upland remote areas with limited amenities

Assignment Duration Assignment Duration

12 person months. Six person months intermittent distribution over three years period.

Duty Station Duty Station

Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with an Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with field
intensive field visits to the project site which will take 50% of the consultant’s inputs. visits to the project site which will take 50% of the consultant’s inputs.

The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00 hrs The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00
15th June 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB website hrs 15th June 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB
www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric file: website www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric
CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted. file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted.

For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address. For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address.

Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding
Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com mailto:nnrblao@gmail.com Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com

Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF) Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding (NNRBDSP-AF)
Department of Planning Department of Planning
Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
ADB Project Number: 33356 ADB Project Number: 33356

Job Announcement Job Announcement

Micro Finance Trainer (National)
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities of the
predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The expected
impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be integrated
watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin.
The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10
Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane.
MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.),
Duties and Responsibilities:
Management Information System (MIS) Specialist (National)
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding is financed by ADB to continue the on-going activities
of the predecessor Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project (2002-2010) which was financed by ADB and AFD. The
expected impact is the optimal use of the Water resources, especially in the Nam Ngum River Basin. The project outcome will be
integrated watershed management improved in the Nam Ngum River Basin.
The Additional Funding Project covers 3 provinces (Vientiane Province, Luang Prabang Province and Xiengkhuoang Province), 10
Districts and Headquarter located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Vientiane.
MAF now invites qualified individuals to indicate their interest by providing their CVs (including information showing the candidate’s
general experience for similar assignments and experience in similar assignments, knowledge of local conditions, etc.),
Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Review the training needs of the Central Financial Management Team CFMT and the District Financial Management Teams 1. In coordination with Agriculture Extension Specialist, Senior Micro Finance Specialist, Micro Finance Trainer, Financial
DFMTs and Revolving Fund groups, produce training plan for the whole period of the Project with the breakdown to the annual Management Teams of the Project, review Village Development Fund Operation and assess the system and kind of data gathered/
plan which will be part of the Extension component annual work plan and budget plan. collected;
2. Assist CFMT and DFMTs in Revolving Fund groups business plan and Financial Projections (Whole project period and Annual) 2. In coordination with the project Monitoring and Evaluation Unit and Micro finance programme implementation specialist,
3. Conduct training for FMTs in Preparation of Loan proposal, Appraising of loan proposals, Revolving fund management, design/develop/improve the Management Information System for Agriculture Extension and Livelihood Development Activity
Accounting and Book Keeping. for monitoring, evaluation and reporting purposes.
4. To assist the MIS Database specialist in setting up the VDF Data base system including setting up back up manual accounting 3. Develop reports and queries at central level (National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Service NAFES) for monitoring and
system. evaluating the implementation of the project.
5. Monitor the operation of CFMT and DFMTs, performing of RF groups, VDRF operation and giving backstopping to CFMT and 4. Undertake the implementation of Village Development Revolving Funds VDRFs management system in 10 districts of 3 provinces:
DFMTs. Vientiane Province for 6 districts, Xiengkhouang Province for 3 districts and one district in Louang Prabang Province.
6. Assist the Micro finance programme implementation specialist in producing the post project sustainability plan, phase out 5. Train project staff especially the FMT staff on the use of the VDRF management system computer program
strategy. 6. Assist in the establish of VDRF Management System in the national institution at NAFES as central data warehouse

Qualification Required Qualification Required

• Bachelor Degree in Agriculture Economic, Finance and Banking, Economy. • Degree in agricultural economics, agronomy, natural resources management or related disciplines;
• At least five years of experience in Micro finance programme operation among the farming communities and rural remote areas. • At least 5 years experience in Visual Basic Application (VBA) and MS - Access database tool;
• Experience with the International Financial Institutions support Micro finance programme. • Knowledge and experience in financial management and monitoring;
• Demonstrated training skill. • Experience in designing database system particularly using Microsoft Access;
• Previous experience of working in the NNRBDSP Project areas. • Experience in research/extension linkages and in complex, interdisciplinary projects;
• Computer literate • Experience in synchronizing MS-SQL (Microsoft - Structured Query Language Programme) and MS - access; and
• Ability to operate data base programmes • Working knowledge in Microsoft product environment: Windows, Excel, Word, etc.
• Proficient in English • Ability to speak and write in English
Assignment Duration Assignment Duration
30 person months over three years period. 12 person months inputs intermittent distributed over three years period.
Duty Station Duty Station
Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with field Extension component office, National Agriculture and Forestry Extension Office, Ban Houay Yang, Vientiane capital city with field
visits to the project site which will take 50% of the consultant’s inputs. visits to the project site which will take 50% of the consultant’s inputs.
The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00 The deadline for the submission of Expressions of Interest (EOI), including the CVs, technical and financial proposals, is at 14:00
hrs 15th June 2012 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB hrs 15th June 2012 at the address below. EOIs should be submitted (i) electronically (completed EOI form in CSRN on the ADB
website www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric website www.adb.org business/consulting services/consultant management system), and (ii) manually (one hard copy and one electric
file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted. file: CD-ROM). Late submissions will not be accepted.
For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address. For detail TOR and for Submission of the Application, please contact to the following address.
Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager Mr. Sisovath Phandanouvong, National Project Manager
Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding Nam Ngum River Basin Development Sector Project Additional Funding
Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com mailto:nnrblao@gmail.com Vientiane 01000, Lao PDR Tel. +856-21-263161 Fax +856-21-416556 E-mail: namngumlao@gmail.com
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 9

Vacancy for Lao National

Position Title: Area Development Program Supervisor.
Location: Bolikhamxay (Pakkading District)
World Vision Lao PDR (WVL), operating in the field of Community Development in Laos since 1991, wishes to invite
application for the following position. Candidate with a strong commitment to serve the poor and disadvantaged
people and willing to travel in the districts where projects operate are invited to apply.

The purpose of this position is to plan and implement project activities together with the ADP Manager
and/or Team Leader. To ensure that project goals and objectives are met in accordance with the project
implementation plan.

This position will report to Provincial Team Leader

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop a yearly project plan of action and budget, in keeping with the project implementation
plan, and in consultation with the Team Leader.
2. Oversee the implementation of planned project activities, including purchase and delivery of
equipment and other approved project inputs.
3. Assist Government counterparts to prepare monthly plans and field reports, check and approve
of the plans and reports, and submit for review by the Team Leader.
4. Coordinate and facilitate project activities with District and Provincial officials.
5. Assist the Project Book keeper to prepare monthly financial reports for the project, and all other
project financial management documents as required by WVL.
6. Monitor ongoing project expenses to ensure that they are within the project budget and in
accordance with World Vision financial policy.
7. Supervise designated field staff. To ensure that they are working according to agreed plans and
taking good care of the project equipment. Report any problems to the District Officials
responsible and to the Team Leader.
8. Participate in the recruitment and selection of staff for the team.
9. Demonstrate a commitment to World Vision policies, procedures and principles, and ensure that
project activities are within World Vision guidelines and expectations.
10. Carry out other tasks as requested by organization.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Educational Qualification: University graduate with advanced degree in a relevant technical area.

• Professional Experience: Five years minimum experience working in development related

activities.

• Skills Required:
- Project management knowledge and skills.
- Fluency in Lao and a good working knowledge of English both written and spoken.
- Demonstrated commitment to and skill in encouraging community involvement. Well-developed
organizational, planning, and problem solving skills.
- Understand computer hardware and software functions.
- Ability to work as an effective team member.
- Ability to lead a team.
- Good interpersonal skills. Basic, practical computer skills in word processing and using spreadsheets.
- High standards of personal conduct and respect for the customs and cultures of all people in the work
environment.
- Knowledge of WV reporting and financial procedures highly desirable.

Salary is based on qualifications and experience. Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV to
Human Resources Department, World Vision Lao PDR, Box 312, Vientiane, e-mail:
sokxai_kingvongsa@wv.org and E-mail: wvlaopdr_applicant@yahoo.com
Or Tel: 021 452 100 Fax: 021 452 101. Closing date: June 11, 2012
10 Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

YOUR EXCITING NEW CAREER STARTS HERE…

This is an exciting time to join Phu Bia in the dynamic mining industry. Our Phu Kham Copper-Gold Operation is in its fifth year of production, our new Ban Houaxyai Gold-Silver Operation has just
commenced production and we have a pipeline of other exploration projects in Laos.

We are seeking enthusiastic and motivated Lao nationals for the following position.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH OFFICER To be successful in this role, you will require:

Safety and Sustainability Department, Phu Kham Operation
Reporting to the Senior Occupational Health and Hygiene Supervisor, you will be responsible for
assisting in the implementation and ongoing management of the new Occupational Health and
Hygiene program across the Phu Kham site. This role would suit an experienced metallurgical,
geological or laboratory technician with an interest in occupational health. This role is offered on
a 20 days on, 8 days off roster. Your responsibilities will include:
 Assisting in the implementation of the hygiene program
 Maintaining the database for the monitoring program
 Maintain, check and calibrate instruments
 Provide guidance to the Occupational Health Technicians in the team
 Review all raw data generated by monitoring, manipulate as necessary and enter into a
database
To be successful in this role, you will require:
 Diploma or degree level qualification in a relevant discipline
 Experience in data management
 Previous experience in an industrial laboratory environment would be an advantage
 Previous experience particularly with MS Office Excel; Word; Essential; Assess and related in
others program
 Fluent in written and spoken English and Lao
 Must be demonstrate a mind that is focused on quality and attention to detail, with the ability
to instill the same focus in people under supervisor
PRONTO DATA CLERK
Process Department, Phu Kham Operation
Reporting to the Senior Planner, you will be responsible for data entry of maintenance data into
the Pronto maintenance database. This position is offered on a 20 days on, 8 days off roster.
Your responsibilities will include:
 Entering of work order history/data into company’s integrated computer system (Pronto)
 Recording and reporting daily maintenance data to the shutdown planning team
 Registering of Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and managing files
 Preparing equipment manuals, statutory inspections procedures
 Following Phu Bia Mining’s safety standards
To be successful in this role, you will require:
 Qualification in Business Administration will be highly regarded, but not essential
 Experience in Administration, Accounting and Data Management would be advantage
 Good knowledge in Microsoft Word and Excel and accurate typing/data entry skills
 Fluency in written and spoken English and Lao
INFORMATION OFFICER
Commercial Department, Vientiane Office
Our corporate office is implementing two new projects: a new intranet and electronic document
management system. Working in the Vientiane office, you will be a member of the team to roll
out these projects in Laos. This position is offered on a 5 days on, 2 days off roster. Your
responsibilities will include:
 Managing the migration of existing data to the new systems
 Providing training on document control and intranet procedures for all staff
 Communicating with the project team in our Australian corporate office
 Archiving and disposing of records in accordance with company policies
 Auditing of systems
 Degree in Business Administration or related field
 Minimum 2 years experience in a senior administration or document control position
 Experience with electronic document control systems would be an advantage
 Excellent verbal and written English and Lao, with strong customer focus
 IT savvy and competent in Microsoft Office
WAREHOUSE SUPERVISOR
Site Service, Phu Kham Copper-Gold Operation
Reporting to the Warehouse Superintendent and leading a team of stores people, you will be
responsible for the day to day warehousing operations to ensure a high level of customer service
to the maintenance departments. The role is offered on a 20 days on, 8 days off roster. Your
responsibilities will include:
 Supervising daily warehouse activities in the timely and accurate receipt, storage and issue of
goods and overseeing the handling and storage of fuel and dangerous goods
 Leading and training the team
 Implementing, maintaining and improving warehousing systems and processes
 Day to day involvement with internal customers from the maintenance departments and
suppliers
To be successful in this role, you will require:
 Degree level qualification in a related discipline
 2-3 years experience in a large warehouse environment, ideally within mining or similar
industry
 Previous experience supervising a team
 Strong skills in Microsoft Excel and Pronto or similar computerised warehousing system
 Excellent written and verbal communication in English and Lao and outstanding customer
service focus
 Current drivers, forklift and dangerous goods handling licence
SENIOR STORESPERSON - CATERING
Site Services Department, Phu Kham Operation
Our Phu Kham Operation caters for approximately 1600 people in our camp, operating a large
mess and bar, which has its own food and beverage warehouse/store. Reporting to the Senior
Cost Controller, you will lead a team of stores people to manage stock control and inventory for
this warehouse. The role is offered on a 20 days on, 8 days off roster. Your responsibilities will
include:
 Leading the team to unpack and process incoming stock
 Inspecting all incoming deliveries to ensure stock quality and accuracy in supplies
 Ensuring the correct storage and rotation of stock
 Maintaining a clean and organised warehouse
 Working to Phu Bia Mining’s strict safety requirements
To be successful in this role, you will require:
 Tertiary qualification in hospitality, accounting or similar field
 Minimum 4 years’ experience in a store, warehouse or purchasing role in hospitality or
catering
 Strong computer skills in MS Office Suite
 Fluency in written and spoken English and Lao

Phu Bia Mining offers a professional and team-oriented work environment and generous rewards for sound work performance. Site roles work a roster of 20 days on / 8 days off and 14 days on/ 7 days off for
shift work, while Vientiane-based roles usually work 5 days per week with 2 days off. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from both women and men for all our advertised roles.

Interested applicants should send their CV to the email address below by 4 June 2012.

Email: Recruitment-Lao@pbm.panaust.com
th
Phu Bia Mining Limited, 7 Floor Capital Tower, 23 Singha Road, Saysetha District, Vientiane Lao PDR
For further information about our company, please visit our web site www.panaust.com.au
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 11
12 Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 13
14 Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

Opinion
HIV-positive women in Argentina
mainly infected by stable partners
Marcela Valente
BUENOS AIRES (IPS) --
The immense majority of
women diagnosed with HIV
in Argentina in the last two
years were infected through
unprotected sex with their
stable partners, a new report
says.
“In some cases, they
are couple who have been
together for years,” Maria
Eugenia Gilligan, an activist
with the Argentine Network of
Women Living with HIV, told
IPS. “The age range has even
expanded, and we are finding
more and more women over
60.”
This national organisation
and the Buenos Aires Network
of People Living with HIV
jointly surveyed 465 women
in that situation around the
country for the “Study of
Recently Diagnosed Women”.
The women interviewed
were all diagnosed since Jan.
1, 2009. The aim was to find
out in what circumstances
they were infected. Gilligan
said many of the women were
“uninformed.”
The sample included
women between the ages
of 17 and 70, although 51
percent were 25 to 39. Around
70 percent had reached but
not necessarily completed
secondary school, and a few on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). she lived with for 11 years, the women living with HIV The report also discusses
had university or other tertiary The chief conclusions are she couldn’t believe she had had suffered physical and/or what happens once a woman
level education. that 92 percent of women been infected. sexual abuse from a young has found out that she tests
The report to which IPS living with HIV were infected Official statistics suggest age. positive for the AIDS virus.
had access has not yet been by means of unprotected that up to half of all people “It’s not that they don’t It points to shortcomings in
officially released, but the sexual relations, while 73 living with HIV in this insist on condom use because terms of confidentiality, and
preliminary results were percent said they were infected country do not know they are they are crazy,” Gilligan said. in counselling to help women
presented on the International within a stable relationship. infected. “The problem is that many deal with the situation.
of them cannot negotiate the Some women, for example,
issue with their partners, out face “hostile situations” when
Official statistics suggest that up to of fear of violence, so they they are told they test positive
use other methods of birth for HIV, the report says. It
half of all people living with HIV in this control.” also mentions cases in which
The study also found that a family member is informed
country do not know they are infected. over 44 percent of the women even before the woman herself,
had experienced conflict or or in which she is told of her
tension with their partners at HIV-positive status in front of
some point over the use of others, such as doctors, nurses
Day of Action for Women’s The results partly coincide “We almost always see the condoms. or relatives.
Health, celebrated Monday with Health Ministry statistics same thing. The women didn’t Most of the women The personal accounts
May 28. which indicate that there are know (their male partners) interviewed said they also show that there are
The survey described 130,000 people living with had the virus,” said Gilligan, discovered they were HIV- women who leave the
the living conditions of the HIV in this country of 40 who added that violence “is positive by chance: when medical clinic or hospital
respondents. For example, it million people, where the one factor that increases the they were pregnant, during a without fully understanding
reported that more than half of main channel of transmission vulnerability of women by routine check-up, or in pre- the results of the test. “They
them live in crowded homes, is unprotected sex. making them reluctant to surgery tests. Only 10 percent told me it was ‘reactive’, but
70 percent have no social “We noted that since 2008 demand the use of condoms, had gone in for testing after I didn’t know if that meant
security coverage, and only there is less public information as a precautionary measure.” finding out that their partners positive or not,” one of the
46 percent work outside the available and there are more She said a majority of were living with HIV. respondents said.
home. uninformed women. Specific
The study was carried
out by the Gino Germani
campaigns are needed, and
counselling and advice are Vientiane Times on CD-ROM
Research Institute of the failing. Although a lot is being
University of Buenos Aires, done, there is much more to Issues of Vientiane Times from 2001 to April 2012 have been recorded on CD-ROM. Now
and the Centre of Population do,” Gilligan said. available at Vientiane Times office. Corner Setthathirath/Pangkham Roads, Nam Phu,
Studies, with the backing For 60 percent of those Vientiane. P.O. Box: 5723,
of the Health Ministry and surveyed, the diagnosis was
multilateral organisations “totally unexpected.” One Tel: (856-21) 216364, 217593. Fax: (856-21) 216365
like UN Women and the Joint 51-year-old woman said that Email: info@vientianetimes.org.la
United Nations Programme after being faithful to the man
VACANCy ANNOUNCEMENT
(Announcement No. 12/38)

OPEN TO: All interested candidates

POSITION: Guards (NEC), FSN-3
OPENING DATE: May 16, 2012
CLOSING DATE: May 31, 2012
CONTRACT: Less than three years
WORk hOURS: Full-time; 48 hours/week
SALARy: Actual grade and salary will be based on the qualifications of the applicant.
Subscription
Subscription Rates 2012-2013
Rates 2008-9 NOTE: ThIS IS A LOCAL POSITION. ThE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL COME UNDER LOCAL LAbOR
1. DOMESTIC SUBSCRIPTION (6 issues/week) and online fee LAW, AND bE PAID ACCORDING TO ThE EMbASSy’S LOCAL COMPENSATION PLAN. ALL ORDINARILy
RESIDENT APPLICANTS MUST bE RESIDING IN LAOS AND hAVE ThE REQUIRED WORk AND/OR
+ Online fee Total + Online fee RESIDENCy PERMITS TO bE ELIGIbLE FOR CONSIDERATION.
78 issues (3 months) 305,000k +100,000k 405,000k
The U.S. Embassy in Vientiane is seeking 12 individuals for the position of Guard for the New Embassy Compound (NEC)
Regular price 156 issues (6 months) 609,000k +100,000k 709,000k Project.

312 issues (1 year) 1,217,000k +100,000k 1,317,000k bASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION

78 issues (3 months) 390,000k +100,000k 490,000k Incumbent serves as a guard for the New Embassy Compound (NEC) and reports to the NEC Sergeant, Shift Supervisor and NEC
Home Delivery (City Centre) Guard Commander, Site Security Manager and the Regional Security Officer (RSO). He/she is responsible for controlling access of
Area: Thadeua Rd. Dongdok, Ban 156 issues (6 months) 780,000k +100,000k 880,000k all personnel and vehicles into the NE, patrolling NEC grounds and responding to security incidents, operating security equipment
Tanmixay and Sikhay villages.
312 issues (1 year) 1,560,000k +100,000k 1,660,000k
and raising the alarm in an emergency.

2. DOMESTIC SUBSCRIPTION FOR PROVINCES (6 issues/week), inclusive of postage cost

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED
156 issues (6 months) 1,451,000k NOTE: All applicants must address each selection criterion detailed below with specific and comprehensive information
Deliver to Provinces supporting each item.
312 issues (1 year) 2,902,000k

156 issues (6 months) 1,451,000k

1. Education: Completion of Secondary School is required
+100,000k 1,551,000k
Deliver to Provinces + online fee 2. Prior Work Experience: One year of Embassy guard duties or directly applicable military or police experience.
312 issues (1 year) 2,902,000k +100,000k 3,002,000k 3. Language Proficiency: Level II English, minimal working knowledge required. Level III, good working knowledge
of Lao required.
3. OVERSEAS SUBSCRIPTION (6 issues/week) and online fee Total + Online fee 4. Job Knowledge: Must be thoroughly familiar with all Embassy Guard orders, procedures, standards and emergency
responses.
156 issues (6 months) 2,523,000k +100,000k 2,623,000k 5. skills and abilities: Must be able to operate security equipment, interpret guard orders and instructions. Must be
Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia
physically fit.
312 issues (1 year) 4,959,000k +100,000k 5,059,000k

156 issues (6 months) 2,784,000k +100,000k 2,884,000k hOW TO APPLy

Asia, Australia & New Zealand
312 issues (1 year) 5,481,000k +100,000k 5,581,000k Interested applicants for this position must submit the following for the application to be considered:
1. Universal Application for Employment (Form DS-174). Download the form at:
156 issues (6 months) 3,045,000k +100,000k 3,145,000k http://laos.usembassy.gov/job_opportunities.html
Europe (Including Russia) 2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD-214 with their application.
312 issues (1 year) 6,046,500k +100,000k 6,146,500k 3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned) that
156 issues (6 months) 2,958,000k
addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.
+100,000k 3,058,000k
America and Canada
312 issues (1 year) 5,829,000k +100,000k 5,929,000k SUbMIT APPLICATION TO
Human Resources Office
4. ONLINE SUBSCRIPTION FEE American Embassy
Website is update four (4) times a day and every issue is published on our website in HTML and PDF Rue Bartholonie, That Dam
PO Box 114, Vientiane, Laos
3 months (66 issues) 300,000 6 months (132 issues) 600,000 1 year (264 issues) 1,000,000 (Hardcopy or e-mail attachments are accepted)

POINT OF CONTACT
Please return this form with the following information to Vientiane Times Telephone: 856-21-267176
FULL NAME: _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Fax: 856-21-267140
ADDRESS: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
TEL: _________________________FAX:____________________EMAIL:_____________________________________________________________
E-mail: VientianeHR@state.gov
FOR ONLINE: Name:____________________________________PREFERRED PASSWORD______________________________________________
(Password not more then 8 characters) Interested persons should contact Embassy Human Resources Office for more information. Blank application forms may be
picked up from the cabinet inside the Embassy entrance.
Mail this completed form with your cheque to: Payment in advance
Vientiane Times, Pangkham Rd. Vientiane, Lao PDR Please request rates for other destinations at
Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.
PO Box 5723. Fax: +856 (21) 216 365 info@vientianetimes.org.la
Website: www.vientianetimes.org.la Make your cheque payable to or deposit payment in: CLOSING DATE FOR ThIS POSITION: May 31, 2012
Email: info@vientianetimes.org.la US$ 010.5.11.01.00108 An Equal Opportunity Employer
KIP: 010.8.11.00.00058
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 Opinion 15

Enabling trade in a changing world

Robert Lawrence &
Margareta Drzeniek
ANN -- Global trading patterns
have become increasingly
intertwined. So too has
global prosperity. Rather than
products or services simply
originating in one country
and being sold in another,
value is often added by many
countries involved in complex
supply chains. This means
that one country’s success in
enabling trade not only plays
a significant part in its own
overall competitiveness, and
by association, prosperity,
but also has implications for
the competitiveness of other
countries. Moreover, since
emerging economies account
for 60% of the growth in
imports of goods and services
since 2008, their success in
enabling trade has become
increasingly relevant. This
makes the findings of our
biannual study, the Global
Enabling Trade Report, all the
more interesting.
Since transaction costs
increasingly play a part in
overall competitiveness, we
need to evaluate the broad
array of policies that can
affect them. Our research,
which ranks 132 nations on
how successfully they enable
trade, takes account not only of
border barriers such as tariffs
and non-tariff barriers that
affect market access at home,
but also opportunities given to
exporters through agreements
and preferential arrangements
with others. In addition, a
broader set of policies are
appraised that include border
administration, infrastructure
and telecommunications and
the regulatory and security
regimes that secure property
rights and reduce trade
transactions costs.
The overall index serves
as a useful summary measure
and is built on a number
of pillars such as market
access, border administration,
infrastructure and business
environment. These can
be used by countries to
benchmark various aspects of
their policies not only against exceptions in labour-intensive environments. strong global growth centered
the best, but also others in manufacturing and agriculture Report results suggest on the developing countries,
their region and/or similar – their tariffs are generally challenges remain for large with the emergence of large
stage of development. low, but also because countries with important middle classes in China and
This year’s results show the economic development itself global roles. The United States India driving global demand.
highest-ranking economies in is intimately associated with is a laggard in both trade and While China (56) is doing
enabling trade to be Singapore enhanced capabilities in regulatory policy. It ranks only relatively well for a country
(1) and Hong Kong (2). These administration, infrastructure 23rd overall, doing especially of its income level, it has
economies promote trade and telecommunications and poorly on market access nevertheless dropped 8 places
from 48 in 2010. Meanwhile,
other BRIC countries such
The consensus forecasts are for strong as Brazil (86), India (100)
global growth centered on the developing and Russia (112) have lots
of room for improvement in
countries, with the emergence of large most dimensions of the index.
Given the rising importance
middle classes in China and India driving of these markets, the drop
of China and India remains
global demand. worrisome for future global
economic growth.
In sum, in the years to
come, it is expected that the
not only by opening their regulation. Generally, the (60), which is low because adoption of a broader set of
markets but also by providing relatively smaller developed exporters face relatively trade enabling policies will
world class infrastructure and countries where trade is high tariffs. America’s become increasingly important,
administrative and regulatory traditionally more important business environment also not only to enhance economic
systems. such as Denmark (3), Sweden rates poorly (42) for a highly development in individual
Not unexpectedly, (4) New Zealand (5) and developed economy, both due countries, but also in to generate
developed countries generally Finland (6), outperform the to relatively poor regulation prosperity in their trading
rank highly. They have larger ones such as the United (32) and high business costs partners. Our hope is that by
lower trade costs not only Kingdom (11), Germany (13,) related to security. Moreover, highlighting the significance
because – with noteworthy Japan (18) and France (20). the United States drops by of these trade determinants and
Nonetheless, some developing four positions in this year’s by providing benchmarking

Online subscription countries also show impressive

performance – such as Chile
(14), thanks to its excellent
After we receive your subscription, a username and password market access and strong
will be sent to you which will give unlimited access to the border administration and
regulatory systems, Malaysia
newspaper every day - including advertisements. You can also (24) and Mauritius (36). Gulf
access back issues for up to seven days. Just log in and you’ll automatically states such as the UAE (19),
be registered with www.vientianetimes.org.la.Contact Vientiane Times or send Oman (25), Saudi Arabia
an email to: info@vientianetimes.org.la. Or editor@vientianetimes.org.la Tel: (27) and Bahrain (30) do well
(856-21) 216364 Fax: (856-21) 216365, 252631 because they have simple tariff
structures and good business
assessment.
Meanwhile
countries have
ASEAN
recorded
solid gains as a result of the
implementation of the ASEAN
Trade in Goods Agreement in
2010. Thailand climbed 3 places
to 57th, while Indonesia (58)
and the Philippines (72) both
recorded improvements also.
In the next decade, the
consensus forecasts are for
measures, the World Economic
Forum can assist countries in
identifying the areas which need
to be improved.
Robert Lawrence, member
of the World Economic Forum
Global Agenda Council on
the Global Trade System
and Margareta Drzeniek,
senior economist ,Global
Competitiveness Network ,
World Economic Forum

Come and view many kinds of furniture, wonderful home décor items, plants,
flowers and tree saplings. Everything’s waiting for you to choose and buy!

ecial
Sp
1. 30/5/2012 Interested parties are invited to attend a seminar titled “Promoting export of wood”
2. 31/5/2012 Contest for best interior décor

At
16 Wednesday May 30, 2012
Feature
Austria in Brief
wishes the 9th Vientiane ASEM Summit great success!
Times Reporters
T
he Lao People’s Democratic
Republic and the Republic
of Austria have a long
relationship. It is almost
45 years since the two countries
established diplomatic relations
on September 1, 1967. To enhance
understanding among people from
different nations, especially the ASEM
partner countries, Vientiane Times is
running a weekly column to provide
information relating to the ASEM and
its partner countries. Last week we
presented an overview of Australia.
This time we take a look at the Republic
of Austria. We hope this information
will be useful for greater public insight
into a variety of countries.
Location: The Republic of Austria
is a landlocked country of 8,032 million
people (census 2001) in central Europe.
It is bounded on the north by the Czech
Republic, on the northeast by Slovakia,
on the east by Hungary, on the south by
Slovenia, Italy and Switzerland, and on
the west by Liechtenstein, Switzerland
and Germany. Austria has an area of
83,855 square kilometres and has been
a member of the European Union since
January 1996.
The capital, Vienna, is home to key
international organisations, including
the Organisation for Security and
Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the
International Atomic Energy Agency
(IAEA) and Opec, the Organisation of
Petroleum Exporting Countries.
Austria has a very rich cultural
heritage. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
occupies a place of his own as
composer of some of the best loved
View of Salzburg city
centre at night.
European classical music while the
works of Franz Schubert enjoy great
popularity too.
In the world of philosophy
and ideas, Sigmund Freud still
provokes controversy while Ludwig
Wittgenstein was one of the major
influences in 20th century thinking.
In fine art, the paintings of Gustav
Klimt are widely admired.
Economy: Austria is among the
most stable countries in the world.
Inflation rates are low, the increase in
national debt has been successfully
reduced and the target of a balanced
budget is within reach. An array of
measures have been implemented
to stimulate growth through
liberalisation and privatisation and
to secure the future through social
system reforms.
Austria has been a member of
the European Union since 1995 and
is fully integrated into the common
market. GDP (Gross Domestic
Product) per capita is at 34,120
euros or around US$42.330 (2010
nominal), putting Austria under the
top ten within the EU as well as
world-wide.
2010 saw moderate growth for
Austrian exports with a rise of 16.7
percent. The value was therefore 109.4
billion euros (US$138 billion) and
the export quota (product and service
exports as a percentage of GDP) was
at 55.3 percent. In comparison to the
previous year imports also increased
and are at 113.7 billion euros (US$144
billion).
Trade Partners: The most
important trade partners are Germany,
Italy, Switzerland, USA and France.
Austria's proximity to Central and
Eastern European states is a key factor
in the increasing significance of trade
and the economic networking with
these countries. The share of Austrian
exports in these regions reached 17.8
percent in 2010.
Product Groups: The most
important product groups for
export are mechanical engineering
and terotechnology, vehicles and
automotive parts, medical and
pharmaceutical products, iron, steel
and metal goods and paper and
cardboard. Austrian exports are also
heavily influenced by service exports,
with tourism taking first place in this
sector.
Culture: Throughout the world
Austria is recognised for its rich
cultural past and present. This wealth
of artistic achievements is represented
in architectural monuments like
the Stephansdom (Saint Stephen`s
Cathedral), Schönbrunn Palace,
Hofburg Palace, the "Goldene Dachl"
in Innsbruck, Melk Abbey, the
"Loos-Haus" or the "Hundertwasser-
Haus". An extensive programme
of art exhibitions, theatre, concerts,
festivals and folklore events complete
the cultural offer. World renowned
choirs (Vienna Boys` Choir, Arnold-
Schoenberg-Choir) and orchestras
such as the Vienna Philharmonic, the
Wiener Symphoniker, the Camerata
Academica Salzburg, the Concentus
Musicus and the Vienna Art Orchestra
act as ambassadors for Austria. Culture
shapes the image of Austria in the
world. For the purpose of illustrating
the cultural diversity of Austria an
active international cultural policy is
therefore a vital Austrian interest.
People: Austrians are relatively
homogeneous; about 90 percent speak
German as their everyday language.
However, there has been a significant
amount of immigration, particularly
Vientiane Times
from former Yugoslavia and Turkey,
over the past 2 decades. Only two
numerically significant indigenous
minority groups exist - 18,000 Slovenes
in Carinthia (south central Austria) and
19,400 Croats in Burgenland (on the
Hungarian border). Slovene and Croat
minority rights are protected under
Austria’s 1955 State Treaty and in
related national law. According to 2011
estimates by the Vienna Institute of
Demography, 68 percent of Austrians
identify themselves as Roman Catholic.
The church abstains from political
activity. Immigration has increased the
proportion of Muslims and Orthodox in
Austria. Small Lutheran minorities are
located mainly in Vienna, Carinthia,
and Burgenland. There are some
Islamic communities, concentrated in
Vienna and Vorarlberg.
Climate: Austria lies in the centre
of Europe and is influenced by both
the Atlantic and Continental climatic
systems. The moderate continental
climate features four distinct seasons,
with typical temperature and climate
characters.
The east of Austria enjoys a
continental pannonian climate. There
is little rain, summers are hot and
winters are only moderately cold.
The mountain regions have a rainy
Alpine climate with long winters. The
other provinces experience varying
moderate climates, from the Atlantic
influence in the west to the continental
influence in the south east.
Vientiane Times encourages
the embassies of ASEM partner
countries in Vientiane to participate
in this column by sending articles and
pictures representative of their country
to Phonekeo@hotmail.com
Sources: Official website of the
Austrian economy abroad (www.
advantageaustria.org), BBC website:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/
country_profiles/1032215.stm, website
of the Austrian Foreign Ministry.
Vientiane Times
Lao children more studious after being given room to read
Phon Thikeo
C
hildren living
in rural areas of
Xienghone district
in Xayaboury
province now have new books
to read, in the hope they will
become addicted to learning
rather than becoming involved
in drugs later in life.
With support from Room
to Read Laos, reading rooms
have been established at 17
primary schools across the
district, in an effort to foster
a culture of reading and instill
a thirst for knowledge among
local children.
Mr Sonphet Sivilay, who
is the deputy head of the
Xienghone district Education
and Sports Office, said the
project to establish reading
rooms in the district began
in 2010, with the support of
Room to Read Laos.
Over the past two years,
Room to Read Laos has
provided various kinds of
books such as short stories,
textbooks, and general
educational materials for
17 primary schools in the
district.
Mr Sonphet, who helps
supervise the reading rooms,
said that since their inception
they had proved very popular
with local children who
had very little in the way of
educational material before
the programme was set up.
They now have a variety
Boys in Xienghone district enjoy reading the colourful picture books provided by Room to Read Laos.
of books to read, ranging from
educational texts to fiction
and storybooks, and children
like to hang out and socialise
in the comfortable reading
space, especially when it is
raining or the weather outside
is too hot.
Prior to the primary schools
receiving support from Room
to Read, very few pupils were
interested in pursuing their
own studies outside of school
hours, while now things have
reached a point where they
don’t have an adequate supply
of books to cater to student
demand.
Room to Read has provided
additional training to the
teachers that staff the reading
rooms, and consequently the
children are keener to come
and seek advice and support,
with better qualified tutors
available to them.
This has translated to the
children performing better in
class, now that they have a
Simple furniture, humble life
Claire Lee
REPUBLIC OF KOREA
(The Korea Herald, ANN)
-- Renowned Korean artist
Kim Hwan-ki was known
for his attachment to Korea’s
traditional wooden furniture.
An avid collector of the
wooden pieces, he often used
them as the subjects of his
famous paintings. A 1956 piece
features simple wooden shelves
filled with white porcelain jars
of different shapes.
A special exhibition hosted
by the National Folk Museum
of Korea introduces the world
of Joseon wooden furniture
and its distinctive charm that
inspired many like Kim.
The show, titled “Korean
Furniture: Sensitivity and
Lines”, features some 60 pieces
of wooden furniture, most of
them from the Joseon Dynasty
(1392-1897). All of the pieces
― ranging from a simple desk
to a chest of drawers ― are from
the collection of the museum.
“We purchased most of the
pieces featured in this exhibition
after 2004,” said curator Kim
Hee-soo.
“The pieces were used by
‘yangban,’ or the literati, during
the Joseon period.”
The exhibition is divided
into four parts. The first part
showcases a recreation of a
Joseon household in a traditional
hanok, from its “sarangbang”,
the reception room, to “anbang”,
the main room, to the kitchen.
Sarangbang, a room where
the male head of the household
would stay and receive his
guests and fellow scholars, was
a place of exchange of views on
various matters, including art,
politics and literature.
The exhibition showcases a
“standard” sarangbang, which
is filled with stationery-related
furniture ― including a desk,
Wednesday May 30, 2012
broader general knowledge and
can share ideas and opinions
with their friends. “Many of
the children are now more
confident in regard to their
studies,” Mr Sonphet said.
The success of the
programme is evident to all
those who work in education,
and they would like to see it
expanded across all schools in
the district if they can garner
sufficient support. District
education officials are worried
that the project is due to end
this year, and don’t know
what that means for the future
of the reading rooms.
According to Mr Sonphet,
there are 37 primary schools in
the district and they could all
use some kind of comfortable
space where children can learn
independently.
“We would like to see
every primary school have a
reading room because they
have proven very useful for
both children and teachers
alike,” he said, noting the
positive change they had seen
among the children who had
access to a reading room.
Xienghone authorities
have put a proposal to Room
to Read Laos to help build
libraries and reading rooms
The inside view of a “sarangbang,” a reception room of a Joseon
aristocratic house. --Photo The National Folk Museum of Korea
book shelves, and a chest of
drawers for stationery. One can
also see here three pieces of
“byeoru”, Korea’s traditional
inkstone, created by inkstone-
maker and intangible cultural
heritage title holder Kim Jin-han
and his father and grandfather
― who all devoted their lives to
byeoru-making.
Almost all of the sarangbang
furniture is strikingly simple in
its lines and design. The pieces
reflect the Confucian values
and teachings that influenced
every aspect of Joseon’s
aristocrat “seonbi” life ―
which emphasized integrity and
frugality.
In the recreation of the
anbang, the main room, one
will find a Joseon woman’s
dressing table, as well as a
number of hair ornaments they
used every day. The second
part of the exhibition explores
how the wooden furniture was
actually used in the everyday
lives of Joseon people. Using
artist Kim Hwan-ki’s painting
of the wooden shelves and
white porcelain jars as an
example, the exhibition shows
how the pieces created a great
harmonious beauty when they
were placed with Joseon’s
Feature 17
in the remaining schools, as
well as support with sourcing
textbooks for the first and
second grades, as they
currently don’t have enough.
Mr Sonphet said this is
the last year of the project and
they don’t know if they will
continue to receive support
for the initiative. “Xienghone
authorities are worried about
what will happen to the reading
rooms after Room to Read
Laos ends their support.”
In the future, they hope to
develop the existing facilities
into green reading rooms,
to be more environmentally
friendly and meet the aims of
Room to Read Laos.
Room to Read is a not
for profit organisation which
establishes libraries and reading
rooms in poor and disadvantaged
communities, stocking them
with both local language and
English books, aiming to
foster colourful, child friendly
environments conducive to self
initiated study.
Xienghone is one of
11 districts in Xayaboury
province, and is mountainous
and impoverished. More than
4,000 children attend its 37
under-resourced primary
schools at present.
everyday objects, such as plates,
jars, and “bojagi,” Korea’s
traditional textile work.
The third part of the
exhibition features Korea’s
intangible cultural heritage
title holder and carpenter Park
Myung-bae, and his way of
making traditional chests of
drawers. Watching a number
of video clips, one can see how
Park trims the wood from a pine
tree, the complicated process of
making the chest of drawers,
as well as various tools that he
uses.
Stepping into the fourth
part of the exhibition, one can
experience how the traditional
furniture and their styles
still influence the carpenters
and designers today. This
section features the works
of contemporary furniture
designer Ha Ji-hoon, who is
known for his distinctive use
of traditional techniques mixed
with modernistic touches.
“The purpose of this
exhibition, after all, is to show
how the traditional furniture still
lives on,” said curator Kim.
The exhibition runs until
July 2 at the National Folk
Museum of Korea in central
Seoul.
18 Wednesday May 30, 2012
Art & Entertainment
Korean-German pianist breaks cultural barriers
(Korea Herald) -- For
Caroline Fischer, an acclaimed
pianist born to a Korean
mother and a German father,
being biracial is something
she feels proud of.
The classical musician
has been travelling around the
world promoting the cultures
of both countries and, more
importantly, bridging them.
“I am very proud of being
Korean and German and I’m
glad that I can represent both
countries,” Fischer told The
Korea Herald on Friday.
“I think I have both
mentalities inside of me. I feel
comfortable both about Korea
and Germany,” she added.
Fischer began to receive
the spotlight in both countries
after she gave concerts during
the state visit of former
German Federal President
Roman Herzog to Korea in
1999. She was 13. Since then,
Fischer has held a number
of concerts in Korea and
expanded musical exchanges
with Korean artists including
violinist Kim Min, one of the
leading figures in the country’s
classical music scene.
The 29-year-old pianist
is currently in Seoul at the
invitation of the Korea
Foundation, an academic and
cultural arm of the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Since last year, the foundation
Caroline Fischer greets the audience at the Korea Foundation Culture Centre. --Photo Korea Foundation
has been inviting artists from
around the world who have
contributed to introducing
Korean culture overseas.
Fischer performed
in Cheolwon, Gangwon
Province, on May 24, at Korea
Foundation Culture Center in
Seoul on May 25 and also in
Yeosu and Gwangju of South
Jeolla Province and Keimyung
University in Daegu.
Her performances were
also part of her Asian tour that
included cities in China and
Japan. For her Seoul concert, she
performed Beethoven’s Sonata
for Piano No. 14, “Moonlight”
Op. 27-2, Liszt’s Spanish
Rhapsody and Hungarian
Rhapsody No. 13 in A Minor,
and a Korean song “A Longing
for Mt. Geumgang.”
As a cultural ambassador
for both countries, the
energetic and open-minded
pianist said she wants to get
closer to people who are not
familiar with classical music.
“I think music is an
international language which
everyone can understand. I
hope I can communicate with
them, despite the language
barrier, through my music.”
Fischer who claims to be
a devoted fan of Korean actor
Hyun Bin said she wants
to collaborate with Korean
artists, particularly those in
pop culture. She has been also
experimenting with different art
genres by taking vocal training,
and even dance lessons.
“I am very open to
everything. I would like to
collaborate with artists not only
in classical music but also in
pop music. I’d love to perform
with K-pop stars if I have the
opportunity,” Fischer said.
Vientiane Times
Vientiane
What’s On
- Vientiane Education Service and Toyota will jointly hold
activities to mark International Children’s Day on May 31
from 8am to 3pm at the Vientiane Education Service. All
parents and their children are welcome.
- Furniture Fair will be held from May 29 to June 3 at Lao-
ITECC.
- Action with Lao Children Library: Open Mon to Fri 9am
to 6pm and Sat 9am to 3pm. Come in and read and borrow
Lao, Japanese, Thai and English books. Located in Ban
Saphangmor, Xaysettha district.
- Permanent UXO exhibition and the provision of artificial
limbs for victims. COPE Visitor Centre, Khouvieng Road,
opposite Green Park Hotel. Every day: 9am-6pm.
- Chess Club meets at 1pm every Sunday at City Inn on
Pangkham Road, Vientiane.
Contact: Gabriel_smit@hotmail.com
- Women’s International Group. For activities and times
email wiglaosmembership@gmail.com
- Toastmasters Club meets every Sun. from 4-6pm at
Khopchaideu restaurant (3F). Everyone is welcome.
- Meditation at Vat Sokpaluang every Saturday, 4-5.30pm.
- English Language Church Service every Sunday 10am
at the ARDA Language Centre (near the Mercure, formerly
Novotel). Call (021) 261441, or visit http://www.the-chs.org
Luang Prabang at 6.30 pm on Thursdays for
training, please contact the
Big Brother Mouse helps LE President at president_
young people practise their laoelephants@laopdr.com
English at free drop-in sessions, for details and other meeting
9-11am and 5-7pm, open every areas.
day. Just come to our office at Buffalos Rugby - men’s
9am or 5pm in Ban Vat Nong, rugby training Tuesday
around the corner from 3 Nagas evenings 6 - 7:30pm. All
Hotel. www.bigbrothermouse. welcome. Sunday morning
com. social touch rugby - male,
Traditional Arts and female all ages welcome.
Ethnology Centre. Open 9am- Free. For either, contact
6pm, Tues-Sun. John (020 77140176), Bob
www.taeclaos.org (020 55510443) and Tom (020
2281111) for more information.

Justin Bieber accused of battering man

Justin Bieber attends the 3rd
annual Tribeca Disruptive
Innovation Awards during the
2012 Tribeca Film Festival at
NYU Paulson Auditorium in
New York April 27, 2012.
--Photo Agencies
(China Daily) -- Los
Angeles County sheriff’s
deputies are investigating
a complaint that Canadian
pop sensation Justin Bieber
roughed up a man who was
taking pictures of the performer
at a suburban shopping centre,
police said on Monday.
Deputies were called on
Sunday to an outdoor shopping
area in Calabasas, about 23
miles northwest of Hollywood,
by a man who reported having
just had an altercation with
Bieber, the sheriff’s department
said in a press statement.
According to the statement,
the man said he was taking
pictures of Bieber, who was
with his girlfriend, actress
Selena Gomez, when the singer
“physically battered” him.
Bieber’s publicist with
Island/Def Jam Music Group
could not immediately be
reached for comment.
A spokeswoman for the
sheriff’s department, Lillian
Peck, declined to give further
details about the nature of the
alleged confrontation or any
injuries suffered by the man.
But Peck said the man, who
was not identified by police,
complained of pain, and after
requesting medical attention
was treated on the scene by
paramedics, then taken to a
local hospital, where he was
examined and later released.
Bieber, 18, who has
professed a determination
to maintain a squeaky-clean
image, had left the shopping
center with Gomez, 19, before
officers arrived, according to
the man with the camera.
Peck said sheriff’s
deputies are investigating the
case as a misdemeanor battery
complaint and were looking
for any possible eyewitnesses,
but she did not know whether
they had contacted Bieber
about the incident.
The Hollywood news
website TMZ.com reported
that the man behind the
complaint was a professional
celebrity photographer.
Citing accounts of
witnesses at the scene, TMZ
said the paparazzo was
blocking Bieber’s car as the
entertainer was trying to leave
and that a scuffle ensued after
Bieber got out of his car, asked
the man to leave and the man
refused.
TMZ also reported that
after the altercation, a lawyer
approached the photographer
and suggested he could collect
a lot of money by calling for an
ambulance and filing a police
report.
The cherubic-faced singer,
discovered in 2008 through
homemade music videos he
posted on YouTube, released
his first album at age 15 and
rocketed to international fame
on his way to logging 41
million fans on Facebook and
20 million on Twitter.
Bieber’s latest hit single,
“Boyfriend,” debuted at No. 2
last month on the Billboard Hot
100 chart.
The Los Angeles Times
reported on Sunday that the
recent high school graduate
paid US$6.5 million for his
first house, a 10,000-square-
foot luxury home set in a gated
community of Calabasas.
Amenities are reported to include
a movie theater with stadium-
style seating, a library, wet bar,
wine cellar, guest house and
swimming pool.
Ock Pop Tok
Living Crafts Centre open daily
for free guided tour. Natural
dyes, weaving and batik
drawing classes daily. 9am-
5pm. Free transfer from Ock
Pop Tok shops in town to the
weaving centre on the Mekong.
Call 071 212597
Royal Palace National
Museum. Open 8.30-11.30am
and 1.30-4.30pm from
Wednesday to Monday.
UXO Visitor Centre. Open
Mon-Fri 8.30am-12 and
2-5pm. Right turn just before
President’s Monument on the
Northern Rd.
Museums
Lao National Museum
on Samsenthai Road opposite
National Culture Hall. Open
Mon-Fri during office hours
and on weekends from 9am to
4pm.
Horphakeo Museum
on Setthathirat Road
opposite Vat Sisaket. Open
Mon-Sun during office hours.
Sports
ANZ Vientiane Lions
Wild Hogs Rugby training
at the Polytechnic pitch
in Phonpapao village,
Sisattanak, at 8pm on Tues.
and Thurs. Optional Saturday
touch session at That Luang
at 5:30pm, Sunday fitness at
That Luang at 5:30pm. Call
020 77615677
or Chris 020 77834385.
Lao Mahout Netball team
trains every Tues. at 6pm
at Vientiane International
School. For more information
contact Saeng on 020
77442689.
Lions Women’s Rugby from
7.30pm on Tues and Thurs at
the Polytechnic pitch. Contact
Noui on 020 4905090 or
Maggie on 020 54656153.
Youth Community Rugby
Sessions
Training for U15 Boys and
U17 Girls at the Polytechnic
pitch in Phonpapao village,
Sisattanak, at 7:30pm on
Wed. Training for children of
all ages at 9am on Sunday.
Aqua-fitness Fri 10-11am;
Sat 11-12. Please contact
Sarah at 020 54147069 or
nsteam @live.fr
Body Language at Vientiane
Accueil, Khouvieng Rd.

Director revisits an ‘Alien’ cosmos Women’s Rugby Club –

(China Daily) -- In
2089 Elizabeth Shaw, an
archaeologist, chips through
a cave wall in the bleak
mountains of Scotland and
finds out that the human race
is not alone. Illuminated by her
torchlight is a 35,000-year-old
painting of people worshiping
a giant, who is pointing to a
cluster of stars.
The words “we’re not
alone” can be a doorway to
either salvation or terror.
That is the knife edge on
which the British director
Ridley Scott has balanced
“Prometheus,” his long-
awaited return to the universe
that he first created in the 1979
movie “Alien.”
“Prometheus,” opening in
the United States and around the
world this summer, is the first
science fiction film directed by
Mr Scott since “Blade Runner”
in 1982 and his first in 3-D.
The movie, with a screenplay
by Jon Spaihts and Damon
Lindelof, follows Shaw,
played by Noomi Rapace (the
girl with the dragon tattoo in
the Swedish film trilogy), who,
aboard the hubristically named
spaceship Prometheus, uses an
ancient star map to guide her to
an obscure moon in the hope
of meeting her maker.
Joining her are, among
others, Charlize Theron as a
chilly corporate executive;
Michael Fassbender as
David, an android of equally
ambiguous talents and
agenda; and Guy Pearce, who
appears as Peter Weyland, the
leader of an interplanetary
conglomerate that owns the
ship and much of the rest of
the galaxy.
Web sites have been
devoted to analyses of trailers,
images and clues that Mr.
Scott and cast members have
let drop.
Among them is the Web
site of Weyland Industries, with
an ad for its new line of David
androids and a talk by Weyland
in which he lists technological
achievements, including
the ability to make robots
indistinguishable from humans.
“We are the gods now,” he
announces.
Uh oh.
In Greek mythology
Prometheus was chained to a
rock and had his liver eternally
pecked out for stealing fire
from the gods and giving it to
humans.
Wednesday night fitness
sessions from 7:30 at VIS. Pitch
trainings Thursday nights from
19:30 and Sunday from 16:00
at Polytechnic Pitch in Ban
Phonphapao. Contact Vieng
on 020 54234111 or Maggie
on 020 78110019 for more
information.
Champa Ban Youth Rugby –
Rugby activities with a focus
on fun, games and healthy
living message. Free and open
to all. Visit www.laorugby.com
or contact Noui 020 54905090
or Maggie on 020 78110019 for
more information.
Lao Elephants Australian
Rules Football Club -Meet
Class includes stretching and
respiratory exercises with
an oriental touch. Tues. and
Thurs. from 5.30-6.30pm.
Contact 020 5612107.
Aerobics at Sokpalouang
swimming pool, Sisattanak
district. Open every day from
6am-8pm.
Vientiane Hash House Harriers
Meet at Nam Phu Fountain
every Saturday for travel to
out-of-town runs. Mixed Hash,
register at 3.45pm and depart
4pm. Monday,VH3, family
Hash. 3 runs - short, medium
and long. Meet at 5pm at
advertised venue. Phones:
223867, 217493,
mobile 020 5511293, 5514669.
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 Sports 19

Eden Hazard set to join Donaldpays tribute to

European champion Chelsea coach as he rises to No. 1
something to announce we will
announce it in the usual way.”
City, Premier League runner-up
United and Arsenal were among the
clubs reportedly interested in signing
Hazard, whose agent recently claimed
that the player had agreed on personal
terms with all the interested parties.
The transfer saga, however, has
dragged on for several weeks.
Hazard first said he would
announce his future destination at
the traditional end-of-season awards
ceremony, in which he was voted the
French league’s best player for the
second year running. But he pushed
that back and promised to clarify
his position after Lille’s final league
game of the season two weeks ago.
He received a standing ovation
after his hat trick against Nancy,
Belgium’s Eden Hazard (left) is challenged by Montenegro’s Nikola Drincic during which included his ninth penalty
a friendly soccer match in Brussels on Friday. --Photo AP from nine attempts this season, and
then grabbed a microphone and told
PARIS (AP) -- Eden Hazard is set “I’m signing for the Champions the fans he was leaving without
to join European champion Chelsea, League winner,” Hazard said on his nominating a destination.
which appears to have beaten Premier Twitter page on Monday. Signing Hazard would represent
League winner Manchester City and Chelsea beat Bayern Munich in a significant coup for Chelsea,
Manchester United in the race to sign a penalty shootout earlier this month considering that City manager
one of football’s brightest young in the Champions League final to Roberto Mancini and United boss
talents. qualify for next season’s competition Alex Ferguson both flew to France
The 21-year-old Belgium winger after having finished only sixth in the to watch Hazard this season.
had a brilliant season for Lille, league. Hazard was twice voted the
scoring 20 league goals — one There was no announcement from French league’s best young player,
behind French leader and Montpellier Lille that Hazard will join Chelsea, in 2009 and 2010, giving him
striker Olivier Giroud — and topping although the club has previously said individual awards in four straight
the list with 15 assists. He scored a it is prepared to let him go for about campaigns. Altogether, he scored 36
first-half hat trick in his final game €33 million (US$41.4 million). league goals in 147 games for Lille
for Lille, which finished third in the Chelsea later issued a statement after having been spotted playing in
league this season after winning the to The Associated Press saying: “As Belgium and then brought through
title last campaign. with all transfers, when we have the club’s youth system.
LONDON (AP) -- The man who
turned Jonny Wilkinson into the best
kicker in world rugby could prove to
be a key factor in Luke Donald’s quest
to end his major drought this summer.
Donald woke up Monday as the
world’s top-ranked player having
overtaken Rory McIlroy with his
four-stroke win at the BMW PGA
Championship on Sunday.
That the Englishman was the
calmest man at Wentworth this
weekend is apparently a lot down to the
influence of Dave Alred, a performance
coach and sports psychologist who has
been working with Donald and helping
him give off an aura of authority.
It worked for Wilkinson, who
dropped the winning goal for England
at the 2003 Rugby World Cup, and
Alred looks to be having the same
effect on Donald.
“It’s helped me to really be aware
of my posture and how I outwardly
England’s Luke
Donald during
the final round
of the PGA
Championship
at the
Wentworth golf
club in England
on Sunday.
--Photo AP
project that feeling of positiveness,”
Donald said. “It helps me send that
message to whoever I’m playing
with.”
Justin Rose was Donald’s playing
partner on the final day and started two
shots behind his Ryder Cup colleague.
With Donald bogeying the 4th and Rose
making birdie there, the players were
quickly level on 10 under but Donald
had the mental strength to pull away
again and complete an ultimately easy
victory, achieving the first successful
title defence of his career.
Rose said Donald’s consistency
off the tee and clutch putting proved to
be the difference but it also must have
been off-putting to see his rival remain
so outwardly positive throughout what
could have been a tense final round on
an extremely difficult West Course.
“He’s certainly always on at me
again about keeping the shoulders
back and not getting down on myself,
staying positive not just mentally
but physically and through my body
position,” Donald said of Alred. “So
I think I’ve done a lot better job of it
since I’ve been working with Dave.
He’s always reminding me.
“It helps to feel very confident
on the greens, too. It’s always been a
strength of mine, especially in the last
four or five years.”
Alred’s best work has been in
rugby circles, as a kicking coach for
England’s national team and the British
and Irish Lions. He has also had an
input in players’ mental preparation,
something that helped turn Wilkinson
into a kicking machine that guided
England to unprecedented success at
the start of the century.
As far as his work with Donald is
concerned, Alred’s next step is guiding
him over the winning line at a major
— the only thing left to fulfill in the
player’s golfing career.

Zimbabwe athlete wins high-jump

gold in regional games
HARARE (Xinhua) --
Zimbabwe’s athlete Takudzwa
Muchichwa, who has won a
gold medal in the high jump
competition at the National
Sports Stadium on Sunday, has
finished as the country’s best
athlete at the Confederation
of African Athletics Southern
Region Youth Championships.
Muchichwa was in
imperious form as he shrugged
off stiff competition en route
to winning a gold medal in the
high jump competition.
The 17 year old rising
star proved that he is one
for the future with a great
demonstration of determination
and the will to win.
Zimbabwe secured nine
other medals comprising two
silver and seven bronze in
triple jump, long jump, medley
relay, 100, 200, 400, 1500 and
3000 metre competitions to
finish in fourth position on the
medals table.
Confederation of African
Athletics president for the
southern region, Moses Bantsi
hailed Zimbabwe for putting
up a good showing in putting
the championship together.
“Zimbabwe didn’t get
money from the African
body to stage the event so
credit to them for financing
the competition. We are very
pleased with what Zimbabwe
has done considering they
were hosting the event for the
first time after a long period,”
said Bantsi.
National Athletics Asso-
ciation of Zimbabwe president,
Joseph Mungwari said his
association will ensure that
the country excels not only on
the field but also in terms of
successfully staging events.
“We’re moving forward
and this proves our vision of
wanting to be among the best
in all aspects,” said Mungwari.
South Africa finished in pole
position at the championship
after amassing 41 medals, while
Botswana finished second with
Zambia coming third.

Invitation to Asean Football Federation U-16 warmup matches.

Group A: Australia, Thailand, Laos
and Japan
The tournament will be held at the
National Stadium at Km16 in Xaythany
district, Vientiane.
The matches will take place every
afternoon at 4pm from June 2 to 8,
hosted by the Lao Football Federation
and the AFF.

Invitation to first round 2013 AFC

U-22 Championship matches
Group F: Democratic People’s
Republic of Korea, China, Thailand,
Hong Kong, Laos and Cambodia.
The preliminary tournament will be
held by the Lao Football Federation
and the AFC, with matches to take
place from June 23 to July 3 at 4pm.
The matches will be held at both the
National Stadium at Km16 and Chao
Anouvong stadium in Vientiane.
20
Wednesday May 30, 2012
Sport
Azarenka overcomes bad
start to win at French Open
PARIS (AP) -- Only 22,
just recently a Grand Slam
champion and ranked No.
1 for the first time, Victoria
Azarenka is still learning to
think like a top player.
So trailing by a set and one
point from being down 5-0
in the second at the French
Open on Monday, Azarenka’s
mind was filled with “a mix of
things.”
“Sometimes I felt it was
not my day,” she explained.
“Sometimes I thought, ‘Yeah,
maybe I still fight, I still have
a chance.’ Sometimes it was
like, ‘You know what? Forget
it. I don’t want to do it.’”
And yet she did do
it, listening to the most
positive of those voices and
beginning the climb back
from a daunting deficit with a
gutsy second-serve ace, of all
things. Showing how far she’s
come from the petulance of
earlier in her career, Azarenka
took 12 of the last 14 games
to beat Alberta Brianti of Italy
6-7 (6), 6-4, 6-2.
“Before, maybe I would
just give up and go home. I
was kind of thinking there was
a flight straight to Minsk,” said
Azarenka, who was born in the
capital of Belarus. “But I didn’t
want to leave too soon.”
She most certainly did not
want to become the only top-
seeded woman to lose in the
first round of the French Open
since the tournament started
allowing foreign entrants in
1925. But she needed every
bit of fortitude to right things
while overcoming a whopping
60 unforced errors, far more
than her 32 winners — a
terrible ratio for anyone, let
alone a player who considers
herself a title contender.
“Bad days happen,”
Azarenka said with a shrug.
“Unfortunately, today I had
way more mistakes than I
usually do.”
The top-seeded man,
Novak Djokovic, limited his
miscues to when he spoke to
the crowd in French after a
victory Monday, never even
facing a break point while
beating Potito Starace of Italy
7-6 (3), 6-3, 6-1.
“It wasn’t that successful,”
Djokovic said — referring
to his on-court postmatch
interview, not his play, as he
began his bid to become the
first man since Rod Laver
in 1969 to win a fourth
consecutive Grand Slam title.
“I’m trying to take it slowly.
I’m running out of words,” he
said. “Who knows? Maybe (in
the) next two weeks, I’ll learn
something more.”
It wouldn’t be much of a
surprise if he’s around long
enough to face 16-time major
champion Roger Federer in the
semifinals. They met in Paris
at that stage a year ago, when
Federer ended Djokovic’s
43-match winning streak.
Lao wrestlers to compete at SE Asia meet
Lao wrestlers train at the
National Sports Training
Centre in Vientiane.
Sangkhomsay
Bubphanouvong
The Lao wrestling team
attending the 5th South East
Asian Junior and Cadet
Wrestling Championships
in Suphanburi province,
Thailand, from June 14-17
will undergo a rush training
programme in preparation for
the event.
The Ministry of Education
and Sports and the Lao
Wrestling Federation will
support and supervise the
training at the Eastern Star
Training Centre in Nongbone
village, Xaysettha district. But
training will not start until the
beginning of next month as all
the competitors are students
and have exams to sit.
Federation Secretary Mr
Manolom Phinith said the time
is too short for full training
but the team will make every
effort and do their best at the
event.
Competing in five different
weight divisions, the all male
team will contain new as well
as experienced wrestlers, some
of whom won gold medals last
year at the National Games and
bronze medals at the 2011 SEA
Games. Mr Manolom said the
Lao Wrestling Federation is
not yet ready to enter a female
wrestling team.
The competitors are
Chanthavong at 52kg, Vilaphong
Saenvong at 55kg, Sathaphone
Thammavongsa at 60kg,
Sengsavanh Phachanxay at
66kg and Likhit Pathammavong
in the over 90kg division.
Sathaphone was a bronze medal
winner at the SEA Games last
year and also won gold at the
National Games.
Three Lao referees will
officiate at the championships.
Mr Manolom said that
if the federation’s plans are
approved, they will send a team
to compete in the World Junior
Vientiane Times
Wrestling Championship
in Bangkok, Thailand, in
September. They hope that by
providing further support and
training for young wrestlers,
their ability and confidence will
improve, leading to success at
future international events.
The federation is not
yet ready to hold a national
wrestling tournament because
it lacks sponsorship. However,
many young people are
training at the Eastern Star
Training Centre, so it has high
hopes for the future.
Next year, the federation
will concentrate on preparations
for the 27th SEA Games in
Myanmar. At the 25th SEA
Games held in Vientiane in
2009, Lao wrestlers won two
gold and four bronze medals,
after winning just one bronze
medal at the 24th SEA Games
in 2007.
The National University
of Laos will host the 16th
Asean University Games in
December this year. Entries
for the event have not yet been
received from all competing
nations so until the total
number of teams is known,
preparations cannot begin
until the entries of at least four
national teams are confirmed.
Wrestling will not feature
in the games to mark Lao
Sports Day to be hosted by
Khammuan province in July,
but taekwondo, muay lao
and boxing will be on the
programme.
 Business
Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times 21

Read more news at www.vientianetimes.org.la Wednesday May 30, 2012

Inside

Stock trades Labour shortage Govt to delay

battle to get worse car usage tax
headwinds with Indonesian page B3
page B2 oil palm boom
page B3

World Bank: Laos to record US$1

billion trade deficit in 2012
Times Reporters
Laos will rack up a major
trade deficit this year due to a
surge in imports required for
the construction of facilities
for the Asia-Europe Meeting
Summit in November.
According to the East Asia
and Pacific Economic Update
2012, the World Bank’s mid-
year economic forecast,
imports will reach about
US$4.1 billion this year while
the value of exports will be
The World Bank report also
shows that Laos’current foreign
reserves are worth US$681
million, up from US$679
million in 2011. However,
the current foreign reserves
can secure the importation of
goods and services for only 1.9
months, down from 2.2 months
in 2011, due to the increasing
value of imports.
Economists say the
increasing import value is
positive because it is not due to
growing public consumption
2011-12 fiscal year (Oct 2011-
Mar 2012), the kip appreciated
by 0.3 percent against the US
dollar due to strong demand
and inflows of foreign exchange
associated with investments and
export receipts.
The kip also appreciated
against the Thai baht by
one percent during the same
period, mostly because of the
depreciation of the baht against
the dollar.
Credit growth in the private
sector slowed in 2011 after a Chinese and Lao trade officials attend a business meeting in Vientiane.

Chinese auto makers gear

about US$3 billion, resulting but increasing foreign rapid expansion over previous
in a trade deficit of about US$1 investment, particularly in real years. Credit growth fell from
billion. estate projects, which require almost 34 percent year-on-year
The large trade deficit will construction materials and in 2010 to 23 percent in 2011.

up to enter Lao market

result from Laos’ preparations
to host the ASEM Summit,
with 48 heads of state and
government from Asia and
Europe expected to attend the
historic event.
The government eases
restrictions on companies
importing construction materials
to build the infrastructure and
facilities required to host the
Summit.
furniture to be imported.
A World Bank report shows
that foreign direct investment
in Laos will reach US$1.5
billion this year, up from
US$1.1 billion in 2011.
The World Bank report also
notes that the Lao government
continues to maintain a stable
exchange rate between the kip
and major foreign currencies.
In the first six months of the
However, lending to state
owned enterprises increased
moderately in 2011 from 12.4
percent in 2010 to almost 15
percent year-on-year in 2011,
partly due to loans to Lao Times Reporters in one way or another. Within General Motors Corporation,
Airlines to finance the purchase the trade delegation, there are Nissan, Shanghai Automotive
As the Lao auto market
of two Airbus aircraft. Non- four major carmakers from Industry Corporation, and
grows, carmakers from China
performing loans are reported Liuzhou alone that are well China Faw Group Corporation.
are looking to find lucrative
to have declined to 2.2 percent known throughout China. Now Liuzhou is one of the
in 2011 from 3.2 percent inopportunities, and a recent “Cars and spare parts from national productive bases for
2010. business meeting in Vientiane Liuzhou are already being sold automotive parts.
saw officials from China and in Laos,” Mr Zheng said. Famous Chinese

MF Global S’pore customers may get Laos discussing the potential

for cooperation.
“We welcome products
from Laos to sell in China,
automobile brands from
Liuzhou are SGMW, Dongfeng

up to 97 percent of money back

SINGAPORE (The Straits
Times) -- Customers of now-
defunct brokerage MF Global
Singapore could expect to
get up to 97 percent of their
money back, in the best-case
scenario.
The upbeat news comes
from provisional liquidators
from KPMG, called in to help
wind up the company when its
Wall Street parent collapsed in
October last year.
KPMG said customers
would get almost all their
money back if it is able to
recover the customer funds
that are now overseas.
A Chinese delegation
from Liuzhou Municipality
led by the city’s mayor, Mr
Zheng Jun-Kang, met with
Anxious MF Global customers gathering at the lobby of its officials from Laos’ Ministry
Singapore office on One George Street last November after news of Industry and Commerce,
of its bankruptcy broke.
Ministry of Planning and
Investment, Lao National
Chamber of Commerce and
Industry, and businessmen to
discuss trade and investment
in the auto market.
“From our visit, we can
see the Lao economy is
growing and there will be
more opportunities for further
cooperation between our two
countries,” Mr Zheng said.
Under this scenario, MF services to the company but Six large Chinese
Global’s creditors, which have not been paid, would get companies were represented at
include former employees and as much as 91 percent of their the meeting. Most of them are
companies that have provided money back. involved in the auto market
especially agricultural
products,” Mr Zheng said.
Vice President of the
Lao National Chamber of
Commerce and Industry, Dr
Sanan Choulamany, said
“This meeting is another step
to boost cooperation in trade
and investment between Laos
and China.”
Cooperation has been
on the increase recently. In
2011, the number of Chinese
investment projects in Laos
stood at 740, representing an
investment of US$3.1 billion.
“Chinese investment in
Laos has seen an increase in
all sectors,” said Dr Sanan.
China mainly invests in
hydropower, mining, trading,
hotels, services and the
timber industry. China mainly
exports machinery, vehicles
and furniture to Laos. In
return, Laos mainly exports
coal, timber, copper, rubber
and woodcraft items to China.
The auto industry is
the first pillar industry of
Liuzhou. It is home to many
automotive giants such as
Chenglong, Dongfeng and
Fengxing (MPV).
On September 23-25,
the Liuzhou Municipal
Government will hold its
second China-ASEAN
expo, featuring automobiles,
construction equipment, and
auto parts.
Liuzhou is the industrial
manufacturing base of
Guangxi province and even
for Southwest China. At
present, there are 2,848
industrial enterprises in the
city. Its gross industrial output
value accounts for more than
a quarter of the whole amount
of the entire province.
Liuzhou is a famous
historical and cultural city. It
has an incredible landscape.
According to the Liuzhou
official website, Liuzhou is
also known as Dragon City.
Liuzhou covers an area of
18,600 square kilometres, and
is inhabited by people of 48
ethnicities, such as the Han,
Zhuang, Miao, Yao and Dong.
The total population is 3.72
million.

Exchange rates as of April 29, 2012

Banque pour le Commerce Exterieur Lao
Foreign Currencies Buying Selling
US Dollar 50-100 8,008 8,047
Thai Baht 253.43 254.70

Euro 50-500 10,012 10,061

222
B Wednesday May 30, 2012
Laos to import more
German heavy trucks
Stock trades battle headwinds
Phonsavanh Vongsay
A major importer of German
Similar to the previous day late trades increased in volume to put some respectability on the heavy construction machines,
index’s turnover which climbed from the previous day’s US$9.3K to US$28.5K. World International Network
Co Ltd (WIN), expects to
import about 100 dump trucks
this year, up from 50 trucks last
year.
“We expect that imports
will rise further to 150 or 200
trucks in the coming years,”
company representative Mr
Ronachai Chinwattanaporn
said in an interview at a recent
contract signing celebration in
Vientiane.
“We believe we can achieve
that target because Laos is rich
in natural resources and has
The index yesterday made a small gain resulting from a 100kip rise in the BCEL stock many mining operations that
need a lot of heavy machinery
price. and equipment,” he added.
The index closed up 2.67 points to finish at 995.62 points - its first gain in 7 days. “Currently one mining project
in Xepon district, Savannakhet
province, is using some of our
products and places repeat
orders.”
Laos also has many large
projects that are the basis for
growth in the construction
sector.
Mr Ronachai said the
company sold about 50 heavy
BCEL only traded in the latter 4 sessions from 6,800 kip reaching 6,950 in the 4th closing machines or dump trucks in the
before finishing the day up 100 kip at 6,900 kip. It was the banking stock’s first rise in 6
days, but only on just above 12K stocks and a 50pct gain to the previous day’s low trades
of 8K.
Demand rockets for low cost rental apartments
EDL-Gen was absent yesterday until a late charge of 30K hit the final session, thereby Times Reporters
reversing the previous day’s lull of 3K stocks. For the electricty company all remained
unchanged for the 6th day in a row at 4,800 kip. About 20 percent of the new
housing built in Vientiane every
Asian markets rebound year consists of low-rental
apartments that accommodate
US markets were closed so investors ignored market sentiment in chase of bargains but the people moving to the capital
US holiday thinned trade. Metals gained as did the US dollar. Asian markets rose as opinion from the provinces.
Real estate analysts say
polls indicated a victory for pro-austerity conservatives in next month's Greek general the demand for low-rental
election. Most European stock markets have fallen on bank strains in Spain. London's FTSE apartments is growing rapidly,
100 index firmed slightly to 5,356.34 points, Frankfurt's DAX 30 dropped 0.26 percent to and now exceeds supply quite
6,323.19 points and in Paris the CAC 40 fell 0.16 percent to 3,042.97 points. Madrid shares substantially, with demand for
plummeted by 2.17 percent - a nine-year low point, as troubled Spanish lender Bankia lost affordable housing growing at
13.38 percent after it sought a record 19-billion-euro (US$24 billion) state bailout. about 30 percent annually.
Head of the Housing and
Town Planning Division under
• Metals: Gold / US$ oz move -2.59 close 1570.96 as for Silver / US$ oz move.2280 Vientiane’s Public Works and
close 28.3600 Transport Department, Mr
Copper / US$ lb*** .0275 close 3.4755 and LME / US$ tonne: 3MTHS Copper move Phoutthaphone Khotpanya,
47.00 close 7687 told Vientiane Times yesterday
• Currencies: AUD/USD 0.9853; EUR/USD 1.254 but hit a 22-month low point of that the number of low-rental
US$1.2496 on eurozone debt worries; USD/YEN 79.48; NZD/USD 0.7618 facilities has risen to more than
• Oils: Oil prices are up after major crude producer Iran and Western powers failed to 2,000 in total.
He explained that the
reach agreement over Tehran's nuclear programme and the dollar weakened against the majority of people who rented
euro. Brent Crude*** move 0.28 close 107.26 and WTC Crude / US$ brl *** move low-cost apartments were
close 0.48 90.86 students from the provinces,
• PNA PanAust (Phu Bia) edged back to AU$2.99c on a strong 5c gain yesterday. Mt followed by former students
Gibson clawed back a 2c gain to 94c. Ord Resources gain 10pct to 0.021c. who stayed on to look for jobs
• The Saga continued as Greece poured US$22.6 billion into its four biggest banks, adding or to work in the city.
to reports Spanish banks had 184 billion euros of developers' loans and assets that are Some workers and traders
also rent these apartments
“problematic as they may not be performing” while the remaining 123 billion euros while working or trading in
are performing. The four biggest Greek banks overall have received 18 billion euros in the capital. Affordable rental
rescue funds to help reinforce their capital bases. apartments generally range
in price from 250,000 kip to
500,000 kip per month, putting
them within reach of students
and labourers, particularly if
Greek leading banks recapitalised with 18 bln euros
ATHENS (Xinhua) -- The
four largest Greek banks’
recapitalisation with a total of
18 billion euros (US$22.57
billion) funds was completed
on Monday, the Greek Finance
Ministry said.
The transfer of the funds
from the Hellenic Financial
Stability Fund to the National
Bank of Greece, Alpha Bank,
Piraeus Bank and Eurobank
was made as part of efforts to
support the local banking sector
amid the alarming Greek debt
crisis.
“This capital injection
first year of entering the Lao
market. This amount pleased
the German manufacturer,
MAN Truck & Bus, and
they plan to further supply
equipment to the Lao market.
The initial sale of 50
trucks was a good start for the
company’s products in Laos
at that time “because it was
not easy for German products
to enter the Lao market due to
their high price and also their
high quality,” he added.
Now the importer plans
to build a service centre and
showroom in Sikhottabong
district, Vientiane, to provide
after-sales service.
“We expect to open the
centre within the next two
months,” Mr Ronachai said.
The importer believe
business will keep growing in
the coming years as the full
effects of the Asia Free Trade
Area come into play in 2015.
Laos is a relatively new member
of the Asean community but
has a geographical advantage,
being surrounded by China,
Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam
and Myanmar.
“This means Laos will be
a hub with road links to these
they share.
Affordable housing in good
locations is always booked in
advance, particularly when
situated near to educational
institutions.
Those located in the inner
districts of Vientiane, namely
Chanthabouly, Sisattanak,
Xaysettha and Sikhottabong,
are always in demand.
Vientiane’s economy is
continuing to grow rapidly due
to the rapid inflow of foreign
investment, generating job
opportunities in the capital
and attracting people from the
provinces.
Managing Director of
RentsBuy Co., Ltd., Mr
Houmphan Salyalath, said
most Lao people prefer low-
rental apartments simply
because they are cheap.
The villages of
Sibounheuang, Phonthong,
Don Daeng and Sikhay are
among those that have a lot of
low-rent apartments catering
to the influx of people from
outside of the capital.
Mr Houmphan said many
more people have moved from
rural areas to live in Vientiane
to work, study and do business,
which is driving the stronger
demand for rental properties.
It is unclear how many
non-Vientiane residents live
in the capital currently but
restores the capital adequacy
level of these banks and ensures
their access to the provision
of liquidity funding from the
European Central Bank and
the Eurosystem. The banks
have now sufficient financial
resources in support of the
real economy,” said the press
release.
The disbursement of the aid
that derives from the European
Financial Stability Facility
support mechanism came in the
context of the second bailout
deal to assist debt-laden Greece
with EU/International Monetary
Vientiane Times
countries. MAN sees this
potential for having its products
supply the market in Laos,” he
said. “And currently Laos is
undergoing development in
many areas of construction and
other services.”
The imported products
include heavy machinery, trucks,
concrete mixers, concrete-
pumps and dumps. “Now we are
focusing on the transportation
market,” Mr Ronachai said.
WIN, a Lao-Thai joint
venture, was appointed the
exclusive importer of MAN
products two weeks ago and
offers marketing, sales and
services for MAN vehicles in
Laos.
In 2007, MAN set up
regional operating headquarters
in Bangkok, Thailand. With a
focus on the growth in Asean
countries and the Lao market,
the company aims to enhance its
brand and boost its sales volume
to capture the many increasing
growth opportunities in Laos.
MAN was approached and
given market information and
a complete business concept
for Laos and was convinced
that this was the next country to
explore.
experts predict there could be
many hundreds of thousands
of people now residing in the
capital.
The owner of a low-
rental apartment block in
Sibounheuang village said her
apartment was always full, and
whenever somebody moved
out there was always somebody
waiting to move in.
Her apartment building was
built four years ago and she
never thought that the demand
for rental apartments would be
as strong as it is today.
Meanwhile, expat
employees tend to prefer
rental condos or houses with
better facilities, Mr Houmphan
observed. The houses in highest
demand among foreigners
command a rental price of
US$500-800 per month.
There is also a reasonable
demand for properties in the
US$1,000-US$1500 range,
especially among highly paid
consultants and diplomatic
staff.
Mr Houmphan said the
number of expat employees
living in Laos could be about
50,000, including those from
Thailand, China and Vietnam.
Of the total figure, at least
10,000 expat employees are
thought to originate from
western countries in the northern
hemisphere and Australia.
Fund (IMF) rescue loans to
avoid a disorderly default
that could rock euro and the
international financial system.
Since the start of the debt crisis
in late 2009 the Greek banking
sector has been hit hard, along
the real economy and the
average Greek household by
deep recession.
Shutdownfrominternational
markets due to extremely high
borrowing costs, the country,
including its banks, rely on
the multi-billion euro bailout
packages agreed with EU/IMF
creditors since May 2010.
Vientiane Times
In brief
Oil rises above
US$91 amid Iran
nuclear concerns
SINGAPORE (AP) -- Oil
prices rose slightly to
above US$91 a barrel
on Tuesday in Asia amid
concerns that tensions over
Iran’s nuclear program
could escalate as sanctions
tighten this summer.
Benchmark oil for July
delivery was up 36 cents
to US$91.22 a barrel in
electronic trading on the
New York Mercantile
Exchange. The contract
rose 20 cents at US$90.86
on Friday, the last day it
settled in New York.
Lukoil posts 8 pct
increase in Q1 net
to US$3.8Bln
MOSCOW (AP) -- Lukoil,
Russia's second-largest oil
producer, said on Monday
that its first-quarter net
profit increased by nearly 8
percent, to US$3.8 billion
on higher oil prices.
The profit rose from
US$3.5 billion in January-
March 2011 to US$3.8
billion in the first three
months this year, Lukoil
said in a statement, beating
analyst forecasts. Lukoil
also said that the net
income was supported by a
drop in income tax due to a
weaker ruble.
Taiwan minister
offers resignation
amid tax row
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) –
Taiwan’s finance minister
is offering to resign
after a capital gains tax
she proposed ran into
opposition. Taiwan’s
premier has not indicated
if he will accept the
resignation.
Responding to objections
from business supporters,
ruling Nationalist Party
lawmakers proposed last
week to dilute the Finance
Ministry’s proposed 20
percent tax on investors
whose stock transaction
profits exceed US$135,000
a year.
Asia stocks rise
amid hopes for
China stimulus
BANGKOK (AP) -- Asian
stock markets moved
higher after a choppy
start on Tuesday as hopes
for new measures to
boost China’s economy
outweighed worries about
the health of Spanish
banks and their potential
to worsen Europe’s debt
crisis.
Concerns about Spain's
banks have grown since
Bankia, the country's
fourth-largest lender, said
on Friday it needed €19
billion (US$23.8 billion) in
state aid to shore itself up
against bad loans - largely
from real estate gone sour.
Labour shortage to get worse
with Indonesian oil palm boom
MALAYSIA (The Star) -- In
Malaysia, labour shortage has
become the bane of many oil
palm plantation players.
The present status of
labour-to-land ratio is one
man to 10ha of oil palm area.
Assuming Malaysia’s plan to
develop another 500,000ha
for oil palm and the labour-
to-land ratio is maintained, an
additional 50,000 workers will
then be required by the oil palm
plantation operators by 2020.
This will mean that the total
plantation workforce is set at
550,000 workers by 2020.
Therefore, the issue here is
whether Malaysia can easily
obtain the additional workforce
by 2020 despite currently
grappling with the mounting
foreign labour shortage
situation?
Currently, many foreign
plantation workers, particularly
fruit harvesters and collectors
from Indonesia, have opted to
head home given the booming
oil palm sector in the republic.
One answer to Malaysia's
labourwoesinplantationperhaps
can be via mechanisation.
In fact, some quarters are
optimistic that labour-to-land
ratio can even hit 1:12 (one man
to 12 ha) via the substitution of
mechanisation.
Many also bravely assumed
that mechanisation will reduce
the labour requirements by
90,000 workers, whereby the
total labour requirement in the
plantations will only be 460,000
by 2020.
Currently, while most of the
plantation sector's midstream
and downstream have been
Indonesian workers load palm
fruits onto a truck at a palm oil
plantation in Talun Kenas, North
Sumatra, Indonesia.
fully mechanised, the upstream
continues to be labour intensive
particularly in harvesting and
collection of fresh fruit bunches
(FFB). Of Malaysia’s total
plantation workers, 75 percent
are foreign workers out of
which over 20 percent are FFB
harvesters or collectors mainly
from Indonesia. The Malaysian
Palm Oil Board’s (MPOB)
mechanisation harvesting
pole, cantas for example holds
promise since it can reduce
the labour requirement by 30
percent. However, cantas to
date can only reach up to five
Wednesday May 30, 2012
Lao govt to delay
car usage tax
Times Reporters
The government will delay
the enforcement of an annual
car usage tax and a natural
resources tax, even though the
National Assembly had earlier
given the green light to impose
the taxes.
A senior official from the
Ministry of Finance’s Tax
Department said yesterday
the government would not be
able to implement a part of the
revised Tax Law, which allows
the government to collect the
car usage tax annually instead
of as a lump sum.
“The rate of the car
usage tax will be defined in a
presidential decree,” said the
senior tax policymaker.
The National Assembly
approved the revised Tax Law
at the end of last year, allowing
the government to collect the
car usage tax annually instead
of as a lump sum after finding
metres on the young palms that vehicle importers were
which comprise only about 30 failing to pay the full amount
percent of the total planted oil of excise tax due to the high
palm area. rates levied.
Therefore, many opined that Policymakers said it was
the land-to-labour ratio of 1:12 better to let vehicle owners
pay the tax annually to help
will not be achievable by 2020
via mechanisation even though the government collect more
it will help to increase the ratio
slightly to 1:10.5+.
This will mean that Malaysia PM: Govt to
Malaysia has reach the limit
of mechanisation and the palm ensure debt limit won’t
oil industry will need to depend
on foreign labour workforce in exceed 55 percent of GDP
2020 with the present level of
workers maintained at 500,000. KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia
(The Star) -- Datuk Seri Najib
Tun Razak said the government
would always ensure the
country's debt limit would not
exceed 55 percent of gross
domestic product (GDP).
The Prime Minister said
on Tuesday this was part of
the government's prudent
management strategy in
managing the nation's finances.
Najib, who is also Finance
Minister, said the government
had also taken steps to reduce
its fiscal deficit in line with its
commitment to ensure further
growth, he said.
Speaking at the Invest
Malaysia conference at the
Invest Malaysia, he said that
last year, the fiscal deficit stood
at 4.8 percent of GDP versus
5.0 percent.
To ensure further growth
in the country especially in
capital market development,
Najib also announced there
was a need to ensure the capital
market remained competitive
and had the depth and breadth
required to continue to drive
our economic and national
growth agenda.
Najib also announced
five initiatives to build the
competency and capability
needed to compete in the
fast-changing capital market
landscape.
Under the first initiative, he
had tasked Bursa Malaysia to
set up a new foundation, made
up of key industry stakeholders,
to address any growth gaps
in our market, with a specific
focus on SME growth,
marketplace innovation and
the development of new and
existing talent.
“To support this, the Capital
Market Development Fund will
be allocating an RM100mil
grant for the establishment of
the new Foundation, which
will be chaired by the Secretary
B233
of the revenue it was owed.
The number of vehicles
registered in Laos has reached
more than 1 million, meaning
the usage tax should be a
significant source of revenue
for the government.
The tax official also said
the government will not
impose the approved natural
resource tax until it has revised
the presidential decree on state
service fees. He was unable to
say when the revised decree
would be promulgated.
He said the government
expects to impose the revised
profit tax and other excise tax
rates in the fourth quarter of
this year.
Businesses must prepare to
pay the revised profit tax rate
of 24 percent from August,
he said, adding that the Tax
Department was working on
a prime ministerial decree
on the implementation of the
amended Tax Law, hoping to
put it into practice by August.
Under the revised Tax
Law, the government will set
income tax at 10 percent on
income gained from the sale
of land, and 10 percent on
lottery winnings exceeding
one million kip.
General of Treasury,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the
second initiative was to ensure
a high-skilled workforce
whereby the thrust was to
help more of recent graduates
achieve their full potential.
From June 1, this year,
companies participating in
the Skim Latihan 1Malaysia
programme would be entitled
to a double tax deduction
incentive on allowances and
on the training expenses that
they incur.
Third, to promote gender
diversity in employment and
to support women seeking to
return to work, “starting in
2013, a double tax deduction
incentive will be provided on
training expenditure incurred
by companies re-employing
women after a career break”.
Fourthly, on the question
of competitiveness, he had
asked the Second Finance to
establish and head a Capital
Market Task Force.
“The Task Force will
make recommendations and
identify clear implementation
programmes to streamline
regulatory and market
management processes - a
process that will be completed
by the end of third quarter, with
a fully consolidated market
framework in place by this time
next year,” he said. Under the
fifth initiative, Najib said to
protect both investors and the
general public, he had asked the
Securities Commission to scale-
up the existing compensation
scheme in the securities market.
“To this end, a
Consolidated Capital Market
Compensation Fund will be
established to consolidate the
existing compensation scheme
estimated at over RM420mil
as well as to serve as a one-
stop centre for investor
compensation across the
capital market,” he said.
24 4
B Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

YOUR EXCITING NEW CAREER STARTS HERE…

This is an exciting time to join Phu Bia in the dynamic mining industry. Our Phu Kham Copper-Gold Operation is in its fifth year of production, our new Ban Houaxyai Gold-Silver Operation
has just commenced production and we have a pipeline of other exploration projects in Laos.

We are seeking enthusiastic and motivated Lao nationals for the following position.

CHEF PROCESS SHIFT SUPERVISOR

Accounting and Administration Department, Phu Kham Copper-Gold Operation
Reporting to the Senior Administration Supervisor, you will supervise and train the Lao
catering staff in all aspects of food preparation and you will be responsible for the
continual review and design of the menu in line with customer feedback and requests,
company budget, whilst complying with international food safety standards. Whilst this
is a leadership role, you will need to be very hands on and have a passion for food. This
role is offered on a 20 days on, 8 days off roster. Your responsibilities will include:
• Lead, coach and inspire the catering team to prepare delicious and nutritious food for
our very busy site cafeteria (mess)
• Ensure international standards of food preparation and hygiene are met
• Hands on training and development of the catering operations team
• Manage a busy kitchen to ensure that food is prepared on time for meal schedules
• Prepare menus and recipes in coordination with the Senior Administration Supervisor,
considering clients’ feedback
• Ensure wastage control measures are in place and are complied with
To be successful in this role, you will need:
• Minimum 5 years experience working as a chef/ in a large hotel banquet and/or
catering operations, Strong knowledge and experience in Food safety standard
• Strong, proven, background in kitchen and people management
• Previous experience and strong skills in both Western, Thai and Lao Cuisine cooking
• Excellent communication skills including advanced verbal and written English skills
• Outstanding interpersonal skills and commitment to coaching our National employees
QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTOR
Project Implementation Department, Phu Kham Operations
Reporting to the QA & QC Engineer, you will be responsible for the quality inspection and
audit reporting to ensure that project work is being completed to the agreed standard.
This position is offered on a 6 month fixed term contract, working a 20 days on and 8
days off roster working 12 hours per day. Your responsibilities will include:
• Reviewing, commenting and approving Contractor ITP’s received by Phu Bia Mining
• Attending and reporting on the result of equipment installation and material
procurement QC inspections
• Evaluating the project-specific performance of any assigned subordinates
• Monitoring and doing the sample taking, inspection and reports on field
• Coordinating with Project Owner about the field inspection and punch list
• Responding the QC paper works of the handover pack of the individual project as
required
To be successful in this role, you will require:
• Bachelor in Civil Engineering or related filed
• Minimum 3 years experience in a QA/QC role
• Previous work experience in the project construction in mining or heavy industry is an
advantage
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English and Lao
• Competent in Microsoft Office
Process Department, Ban Houayxai Operations
Reporting to the Senior Process Shift Supervisor, you will be responsible for the day to
day running and Supervision of the processing operational crews. You will be expected to
become involved in the on-going and continuous improvement s and performance of the
Process Plant and lead, by example your Operators team with particular emphasis on
safety, environment and productivity. This position is offered on a 14 days on and 7 days
off roster working 12 hours per day. Your responsibilities will include:
• Ensuring your shift crew members are following all Standard Operating Procedures
and safe work practices
• Carry out regular safety and environmental inspections of the workplace and audit
work practices to ensure compliance with environmental policies and procedures
• Ensuring the plant is operating efficiently to meet pre set targets, both in quality and
quantity
• Work cooperatively with the Maintenance Department to assist them to maintain the
plant through planned preventative and breakdown maintenance work
• Continually monitor plant performance and supervise crew members to ensure all
targets are met in terms of safety, environment and production
• Act promptly upon any plant variations or malfunctions that could impair the safety,
environmental or production integrity of the plant
To be successful in this role, you will require:
• Minimum 3 years experience in a process plant supervisory or QA/QC role
• Previous work experience in the gold processing plant in mining or heavy industry is
an advantage
• Good written and verbal communication skills in English and Lao
• Competent in Microsoft Office
COOK
Accounting and Administration Department, Phu Kham Operation
Report to the Senior Catering Supervisor to prepare Lao food at our camp mess which
caters for all of our staffs at site. Your responsibilities will include:
• Maintain kitchen and dining room facilities
• Assist with planning of daily menu’s
• Assist with the purchase of all food and cleaning supplies
• Prepare daily meals for expatriate and Laos employees
• Assist in the preparation of catering units for field camps
• Assist with the purchase of food for field camps
To be successful in this role, you will require:
• Minimum of high school certificate level qualification
• Previous experience in a hotel or restaurant
• Excellent planning and leadership skills
• Ability to speak and written in English

Phu Bia Mining offers a professional and team-oriented work environment and generous rewards for sound work performance. Site roles work a roster of 20 days on / 8 days off and 14
days on/ 7 days off for shift work, while Vientiane-based roles usually work 5 days per week with 2 days off. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from
both women and men for all our advertised roles.

Interested applicants should send their CV to the email address below by 11 June 2012.

Email: Recruitment-Lao@pbm.panaust.com
th
Phu Bia Mining Limited, 7 Floor Capital Tower, 23 Singha Road, Saysetha District, Vientiane Lao PDR
For further information about our company, please visit our web site www.panaust.com.au
Vientiane Times
Vientiane Times
Oudalee finds a suitable house for you to
live in Vientiane.
Traditional Lao house, house with swimming
pool, house on the river.
House with swimming pool available now.
Price range from Kip 3 000 000 and up.
Call Oudalee for free advice and pick up at
your convenient.
10 years experience guarantee.
Tel: 020 55 51 25 02 and 020 55 65 91 46
Email: oudalee@oudaleehomes.com
www.oudaleehomes.com
RentsBuy Co., Ltd is a leading professional
real estate company offering; house,
land, apartment, office, warehouse,
business for rent /for sale and property
valuation throughout Lao PDR.
020 77600059, 22229744, and
Office: 021 223032
www.RentsBuy.com email: rentsbuy@gmail.com
AB Apartment
Services: 2Bedrooms, 1Bedroom & Studio room
Features: Fully furnished apartment in Vientiane
with garden, A spacious parking, Air cond, Cable
TV, house keeping, 24 hours security surveillance,
washing machine and wireless connectivity.
Nearby: International community, diplomatic area &
minute drive from Patuxay Monument.
Ban Sibounheuang, Chanthabouly District,
Vientiane Capital Lao PDR
Mobile: +856-20-5551 2828 or +856-20-28184400
Phone: +856-21-263253 Fax: +856-21-222565
E-mail: abapart@gmail.com
www.abapartment.com
Maniraath gems and jewellery
Genuine diamond & setted
jewellery with 18k precious, semi precious and
Italian chains
talat sao mall #2-10 second floor
vientiane lao PDR, Tel: 021 285 051, mobile: 020 55676545, 020 55775544
Classified Wednesday May 30, 2012
25
+856 20 55599 430
Lao land company is one of the leading real
estate service agency based in Vientiane.
We are specialized in property service
sector, and proud to say your needs is our
answer.
For further inquiry, please feel free to
contact us at 020 5551 0155, 23666333, or
021 453 919.
030 981 9052, 020 23220022
English*French*Japanese * Chinese
Email:oad.laoland@gmail.com
www.laoland.com
 Bouakham
HOUSE RENTAL
Would you like to rent or buy property?
We can show you Land, Houses or Apartments in any
location. Call us!
P.O. Box 1940,Vientiane, Lao PDR
Tel: 020 5571 1396, 77959199
Available Hotel in the top of the mountion for sale in the center of
Luang Prabang Province.
House for rent with 4 room include swimming pool close to
International school and Germany embassy
House for sale Vila 2 floors
in Ban Somvang, Village: Sale now!
22401446 Hadxayfong, area: 935 sq,
reasonable price.
99990803 (Not expensive)
(Sale now, not expensive)
We have great places
to rent and buy: Land,
Houses, Apartments,
Hotels, Resorts,
Email: bouakham_nang@hotmail.com
Guesthouses
www.bouakham-property.com
VPS
Car rental service
• We have many types of cars for rent new
model and old, sedan & 4 wheel such as:
MG.TOYOTA. NISSAN. KIA. HYUNDAI,
SMALL AND MIDDLE SEDAN FOR CITY
• AGL assurances Allianz Group
• Short term 1-7days & long 1-12 months
• Self drive or with driver
• Provide vehicle for Project & Private
• Affordable price and best service
• Office B. Thonkang, R. sokpalaung 15/279
• For English call Mr. Chanh
1,700,000 kip anytime
to 42,500,000 kip/month
• Tel: 020 55599900. 55593013,
office: 030 9800630
• Email: vpscarrental@yahoo.com
• www.vpscarrental.com
Chok Dee cafe
C.S TRANSPORT CO., LTD
“All transportation solution under one roof”
Service offered: Logistics, Transport,
Home Removal,Custom clearance for air
freight and sea freight.
Belgian
Contact Information: Ban Donkoy,
beers bar T4 Road, Sisattanak District
Vientiane, Lao P.D.R
“Moules-frites” Tel/Fax: +856- 021- 330154,
Mobile: +856- 020- 55506402
40 Belgian beers Email: chan@cstransportlao.com and www:
Tel: 020 56103434, www.chokdeecafe.com cstransportlao.com
Fagnum, Mekong riverside road infront of bus stop
262
C Classifieds Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

Email: office@kerberossecurity.com, Fax: 021 217441

Tel: 021 260419/020 55878688/020 55509957

City Centre, Short & long term stay Vacancy Announcement

From 3,200,000 kip ($400) per month
Air-conditioning, cable TV,
housekeeping, laundry, electricity and water
Lao Air Service Co.Ltd Call: 020 55505840, 55023782
ÍçÖéÅèÈ Öà×ãÜÕ âÆê×éÈ ÄáÀèÈ Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com
Sale Agents for Lao Airline SERVICED APARTMENTS
Thai Airways, Vietnam Airlines Spacious & tastefully decorated
Fully furnished 1 & 2 bedroom
& World Wide Air-Tickets service Air-conditioning, Cable TV, Swimming pool,
Tel: 900241-242-243 Garden, Housekeeping, Laundry
MP: 020 55505840, 020 55023782
New Tel: 454034-36
Fax: (856-21) 900244 Email: lao.heritage@gmail.com
Mobile: 856-20 5515870, 5503979
HOTEL LAO
Email: laoairservice1@etllao.com
laoairservice2@etllao.com
Lao Air Service Co.Ltd *Value *Comfort *Service
In the heart of Vientiane
1st Floor K.P Tower
Ideal for business or tourist
Thatluang Rd (Opposite of Min. foreign 43/7 Hengboun Road,Vientiane
affairs) Tel: (856 21) 219280-1, Fax: (856 21) 219282
Vientiane Lao P.D.R Email: hotellao.vientiane@gmail.com
A unique French
language magazine
Le Rénovateur is a weekly magazine of general
information written in French and discussing  
current events in Laos. Readers will find it  
different from other newspapers and can enjoy  
news about culture, consult their horoscope and
find out about radio and TV programmes, as
well as check on current movies at the French
Language Centre. There are also cookery items
as well as personal profiles. The magazine costs
only 10,000 kip per issue, and is published every
Monday. You can buy it at kiosks or directly from
our office on Namphu Square at the Lao Press
in Foreign Languages on Pangkham Street in
Vientiane. You can also read it on our website:
Lerenovateur.org.la
River View Resort Limited
We are currently seeking service oriented candidates with the right attitude to join
our team for the following position. The position is open to both Lao and overseas
nationals.
Resort Manager
Skills and Responsibilities:
- Good written and spoken command of Chinese and English language.
- Persons with a strong background and experience in particular are encouraged to apply.
Salary is based on qualification and experience. Interested candidates with necessary
qualifications please call: 021 212 206, 020 54082000
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations 
seeks a 
 
NATIONAL COORDINATOR  
(Food Security Risk and Vulnerability Survey) 
 
based in Vientiane, 7 month consultancy, with likely extension 
 
FAO is supporting the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (MAF) to conduct a survey to measure food security, risk 
and vulnerability (RVS), linked to the 2010 agricultural census results.  The survey will provide information on 
prevalence food insecurity, determinants, population vulnerability to natural hazards, and linkages between food 
insecurity and malnutrition. This information will support decision makers to enhance resilience of poor and food 
insecure households.   
The National Coordinator will be directly responsible for the successful implementation of the Food Security and 
Vulnerability Survey, and for maintaining solid collaborative relationships with all stakeholders.  In particular, the 
consultant will: 
1. Lead the planning, development, implementation and reporting of project activities. 
 
2. Act as primary focal point for all partners, government, UN agencies and NGOs at national and provincial 
level.    
3. Supervise the planning and implementation of field work, including logistics, administrative and technical 
matters, especially as regards all recruitment and training required.  
4. Effectively and efficiently manage project resources to ensure the expected outputs and objectives are 
attained, prepare necessary project reports, organize meetings and trainings, and support international 
consultants and partners. 
5. Support related activities to improve food security information and analysis in Lao PDR. 
Candidates should be well acquainted with food security issues in Lao PDR, have an appropriate postgraduate 
qualification and at least 10 years of relevant experience, including pervious project and human resources 
management and team leadership experience.  Strong appreciation of collaborative approaches and interagency 
coordination at technical level.  Knowledge of national and sub‐national government structures, and previous work 
with international agencies and/or NGOS is strongly preferred.  Excellent computer, analysis and reporting skills.  
Fluent Lao necessary, strong spoken and written English skills required. 
Interested candidates should send a cover letter, up­to­date curricula vitae (CV) and the names and contacts of  
three references to jannie.armstrong@fao.org by 31 May 2012.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

Job Advertisement
Anti-trafficking & Child Protection Legal Officer
The Anti-trafficking & Child Protection Legal Officer (LO) is a key staff member of the Protection and
Empowerment of Women and Children (PEWC) program, working directly with other staff members of PEWC and
directly supervised by the PEWC Program Coordinator, base in VFI Vientiane office and frequently travel to
Salavan and Champask province. Duration of work is 12 months

1. RESPONSIBILITIES
Legal Guidebook for Anti-trafficking and related issues:
- Review the Lao law related to human trafficking and update on the human trafficking legal guidebook.
- Assist on creation of the sample extension materials (simple legal booklet, radio programs, theater
productions, posters, etc.) in Lao language and at least one ethnic minority language to get key legal
information to local people.
- Conduct training and Train government and non-government actors (youth, NGOs, NPAs, village actors) in
the use of Legal Rights Guidebook and extension materials for use at the local level.
- Assist on conducting the field-testing of the completed guidebook to connect policy issues to local
extension work and relevance to village-level issues.
- Assist on adapting the guidebook and extension materials and reprint for national use.
- Work with other PEWC staff on the Annual Campaign Against Child Trafficking with Asia ACTs partners
- Assist on conducting training to immigration officials on interview techniques, case identification and
investigation, and other key areas

2. QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

- Lao citizen
- A minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience
- Bachelor Degree of Law
- Ability to plan and manage the project activities implementation with minimal supervision
- Detailed understanding of trafficking, CRC, CEDEW and related issues
- Computer skills: word processing, power point, email, internet
- Ability to communicate effectively with staff and especially trafficking victims
- Be cheerful, open minded and willing to work and dial with the trafficking victims
- Fluency in spoken Lao and English
- Ability to develop activity reports in Lao and English
- Experience working with trafficking cases will be highly regarded consideration

Interested candidates must supply an introduction letter and CV to

Kongseng Sirivath, Program Coordinator of PEWC at kongseng@villagefocus.org.
Call 021 312519 or 350740, no later than June 11 , 2012.
www.villagefocus.org
Vientiane Times Wednesday May 30, 2012 Classifieds C273

Started 29th May - 02th on June 2012 ( Limited Quantity...! )

HOT

Apartment for Rent Lao Red Cross youth Competition!

Fully furnished, ready to move in. Win a term of free English lessons by playing the Lao Red Cross Youth
Great location. Competition. From all correct entries, one winner will be drawn month. This month’s winner will
Area 44 m , one bedroom, living room,
2
receive a notebook and a T-shirt promoting HIV/AIDS awareness. From all monthly winners, one
Beware
kitchen, toilet. lucky winner will receive one full term of English lessons donated for free by Vientiane College.
of fakes!
Security cameras & guard. Parking at Environmentally
Naxay village, Saysettha district friendly This month we have another word game for you. Just unscramble the following 5 words
Call Mobile: 2288 8822 and place them in the boxes provide. For the right answers we will give you in the next month .
Win the
Unitel
ne road battle against
Nongbo
mosquitoes!
Naxay line 2

Sisangvone road
Mosquitoes are more dangerous than tigers A S A T ASSMALTEC
Lao-Viet
school

direct sale by Tel: 020 54434207, English= 55599209

(free transportation )
D E M N A ETDMITNNAE

D C L O U SEIDUCLRSO
Teaching Vacancies
U U I S XOSUULRUI
Oscar Bilingual School has vacancies for one Nursery class teacher, one Kindergarten class
teacher, possibly one Year 2 homeroom teacher ( all foreign ) and one Librarian (Lao
nationality). All positions are full time and will commence in August 2012. P S E V E PERSVEREE
Email your CV, a cover letter, stating the position you’re applying for and a photo to:
obsvientiane@gmail.com
Telephone: 021 740098, 020 77105501
Cut out this entry form and send it to HIV/AIDS Project, Lao Red Cross, PO Box 2948 or take it

Vacancy Announcement to the Lao Red Cross office behind Vat Xiengnhune. Closing date for the competition on
Thursday, 31 May 2012 at 9.00am.
The company is headquartered in Hong kong, the new project staff want
Name: _________________ ID Card No: ________________ Address & Phone Number:
1. Honest, industrious, truthful. People want ______________
2. University graduates or university expectant graduate
3. Male and female
4. Can be worked Saturday Last month’s winner: Mr. Vanxay Phongphanith, ID Card No: 08-0014121.
5. Able to English
6. English + Vietnamese = Special treatment
7. China + Vietnamese=special treatment Last month’s answer: Essential, Geophysics, Windstorm, Warranty and Youthfulness.
8. Resume (CV), photo, hope salary, you will fill
9. Jonadan21@gmail.com. will send by e-mail
Please contact to Ms. Phoutthalom for further more information at Tel: 241632.
ZIGO INTERNATIONAL COMPANY CO., LTD
284
C Classifieds Wednesday May 30, 2012 Vientiane Times

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

TBEC Laos( www.TBEC.co.th ) is a one‐stop‐shop for biogas projects.  

Administrator
 

Job description: 

Details provided when interviewing 

Base mainly in Vientiane capital with occasional travel to Thailand. 

Job Requirement 

Very organized 
Creative, self‐confident 
Good in MS Office programs as well as e‐mail.  
Comfortable in an international and multi‐cultural environment 
Good in spoken in English and Thai, fluent Lao. 

We can offer successful candidate:  
Good working environment.  
Challenging duties.  
Training courses  
Competitive salary.  
 
A long term career opportunity will be offered to successful candidates. Application  

must be in English. It should include cover letter, CV, picture and required salary.  

It should be forwarded to: jturtola@tbec.co.thand cc souksakhone@tbec.co.th 

Closing date for positions is  6th June  2012 

TBEC (Lao) Co.Ltd 

Rm. 306 Bounhom Tower, #103 Thong Kham Khan Rd. 

Ban Thong Kham Khan Tay, Chanthaboury District 

Vientiane, Lao PDR 

Tel 021‐244445 

JOB VACANCY
Multinational mineral drilling company is seeking applications from Lao Nationals with relevant qualifications and
experience for immediate starts at our office in following location:

Positions Available
(1) HR Consultant
- Ensure HR service to operations is effective in timely manner after recruitment until termination.
- Provide HR service guide / advisory to site / local HR staff
- Advise instruction of all HR management to ensure clear HR practice for site operations
- Develop HR competency for site HR staff and office HR assistant
- Visit and discuss with site management and HR as well as other staff for better HR improvement.
- Ensure legal requirement and awareness as well as Work Regulations.
- Indirect manage site HR to comply with HR requirements, site requirements and support.
- Support to help on trouble shooting and preventing.
- Oversee HR administration works e.g. Social Security, insurance, health assessment
- Ensure employee relation, safe workplace legal and corporate requirement conformance.
Qualifications;
o BA and any related fields, 5+ years work experiences
o HR Experiences, mining is advantage
o Strong personality and proactive approach
o Good at English

(2) Recruitment Specialist

- Managing staff planning and requirement with operations team
- Execute recruitment planning and time line
- Processing recruitment and selection involving local HR, local management and individually
- Driving external variety sources to get alternative people resources
- Liaison with educational institute to execute trainee / apprenticeship program.
- Work with management to identify potential internal candidate and involve training & development team to develop.
- Perform frequent discussion or meeting or visiting with remote site management to get update information regarding
staff requirement.
- Report progress in company recruitment tools.
Qualifications
o BA and any related fields, 3 years + work experiences
o Recruitment Experiences, mining is advantage
o Strong personality and proactive approach
o Good at English
o Know HR networks, institute and employee resources

(3) HRIS Officer

- Administrate HR information to HRIS tools, Oracle
- Support HR team on processing relevant document for HRIS tools completion.
- Run and distribute HR reports
- Work with site to better understanding of HRIS and delegation.
- Reconcile all figures for employee base and payroll execution.
Qualifications
o BA or any related files, 2 years + work experiences
o Strong computer background and understanding new technology
o Experience with Oracle HR or similar is advantage.
o Smart and willing to learns new things.

(4) Data Entry Officer (based in PhuBia, Laos)

This position will report to Workshop Supervisor
• Perform a variety of clerical office duties such as: maintaining files, keeping records, preparing schedule, compiling
data for reports.
• Searching and investigating information contained in files, processing department documents, posting records and
typing correspondence and reports from rough drafts.
• Communication skills levels of English and be able to translate and interpreting English languages.
• Computer competency skills on MS Word, Excel, Outlook, IE and etc…
• At least 2 years working experience in Administrative or data files.
• Be able to live in the project site at PhuBia, Phukham site
• Experiences in maintenance or data fields are desirable.

Attractive salary and AGL insurance will be provided based upon experience.
To apply, email to: tawat.tadang@boartlongyear.com Or RecruitmentLaos@boartlongyear.com
or deliver your CV and a statement explaining how your qualifications and experience match the position requirements,
and expectation, to the address below:

No 135, Unit 15, Ban Phonthan Neua, Saysetha District,

Vientiane Capital, Lao P.D.R, P.O.Box 6681
Before 31st MAY 2012