BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
The Royal Government of Cambodia plans increased exports of 19 priority products that have the most potential on international markets. The promotion of these products will contribute to the nation’s economic development and reduce poverty.
Kem Sithan, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Commerce, said that his government has formulated these economic plans with markets in Europe in mind.
The Secretary of State recently that these 19 locally produced commodities would include rice, corn, soy beans, sesame, potato, rubber and fish.
“In order to increase markets for our farmer’s products, the Ministry of Commerce is now identifying stable markets in European countries,” said Sithan. “We are also going to help our farmers strengthen the quality of their produce, as well as the quantity they can grow.”
Sithan said the plan for the 19 products relied on the support of international markets and that his government was doing all in its power to ensure this.
“Currently, the quality of our agricultural products needs some attention to nudge it up to meet international standards. This will be the first step in our mission to increase international demand for Cambodian goods,” he said.
He continued, “The other wing of our campaign concerns quantity. Currently, the demand is out there, but we do not yet have the capacity to meet it. Thus, we are going to tackle this challenge on two fronts, taking care of quality, but also training our farmers. We have to educate them and all relevant officers in the ways to make the most effective use of the land available.”
The Secretary of State also emphasized that these measures would be rolled out across the entire nation. He said his Ministry also planned to ease export procedures, making export licenses easier to obtain and speeding up the passage of Cambodian commodities across international checkpoints. He also promised meaningful reductions on export taxes.
Thong Sina, Director of the Commerce Office in Banteay Meanchey province, said that
Cambodian farmers were largely unaware of the demands of international markets. Their business plans and worldview were limited by local conditions and demands.
‘We believe that if our farmers are taught the basic economic principles concerning markets, supply and demand; if they are shown how to make the best use of their land, then they would be able to play a profitable role in the world’s trading centers,” he said.
Dr. Yang Saing Koma, President of the Cambodian Center for Study and Development in Agriculture (CEDAC), agreed with the government’s choice of 19 commodities. According to his observations, Cambodian exports have been increasing over the past eight years. He noted that hundreds of tons of Cambodian rice, beans and rubber resins made their way to markets in Japan as well as Europe.
Saing Koma observed that the quality of raw materials produced by Cambodia’s farmers was as good if not better than anything else produced in the region. The flow of exports was impeded however by the quality of packaging. Exported goods undertake an arduous journey and they need packaging protection if they are to arrive at the buyer’s door in pristine condition.
He also noted the discrepancy between quantities demanded and the ability of Cambodia’s small scale and uncoordinated farming operations to meet these demands.
Currently, CEDAC has been working with local farmers across the nation to introduce them to practices that promise both quality and quantity under a controlled policy that promotes sustainability.
He said that his organization has also been helping farmers to establish networks and marketing strategies. These drives will help farmers share valuable experience and enable them to get a fair deal for their produce.
He also said that his organization has promised to buy rice and other products from the farmers for milling and packaging. These products will then be marketed across the country and the world. Last year alone, CEDAC bought a total of 1,200 tones of rice from farmers in eight provinces, all of it processed, packaged and sold. He added that next year, CEDAC plans to buy around 3,000 tones from the 4,000 farmers covered by CEDAC’s economic policies.
Sok Chamroeun, Executive Director of the Khmer Farmers Association, a local association formed in 1994 and based in Kandal province, said that every harvesting season, huge quantities of Cambodian rice were bought by middlemen and exported to Vietnam and Thailand. He said that according to his findings, this was the very best quality rice and was more than capable of meeting international standards.
He continued “If Cambodian government can control the illegal export of rice to neighboring countries, we will have more rice for sale in more distant but more profitable markets.”
Mao Sok, 50, and a farmer living in Tram Kak district, Takeo province, said that he and his family had been in the trade for the last 30 years. He has seven children and four hectares of land with which to support them.
Sok said he could produce about 30 tones of rice per year and can earn up to 4 million riel a year when working with local businessmen.
Kong Sarom, 45, is another farmer from Baseth district in Kampong Speu province and he can look back on over 25 years experience in the trade. He has five children and six hectares of land, producing about 50 tones per year and earning roughly five million riels.
“I think that if there is a direction and guarantee from the government or sizeable private company, they are welcome to my produce for export abroad. I would be happy to cooperate with them and encouraged to work even harder,” he said.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Cambodia Hosts First Real Estate Expo 2008
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Cambodia will host Her first Real Estate Exposition over two days from 21st to 23rd November 2008. Ly Sok, Chairman of the Whale Group, a company that organizes events such as these said the expo would take place in Phnom Penh.
Sok, a business leader, strategist and entrepreneur, with experience in marketing and logistics, said the Whale Group will be supported by the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction and the Cambodian Federation of Employers and Business Associations.
The Chairman said that about 30 national and international companies form Korea, Malaysia and Singapore will take part in the exposition. Local exhibitors include Grand Phnom Penh International City, CamKO City, and Koh Pich, 7NG, IFC, Golden Tower 42, De Cassetle, Pharos Mekong, and Phnom Penh City Towers, 43 Apartment Developers and a further 9 Borey Developers in Cambodia.
“The Exposition which is a brand owned by Whale Event Management, is a new event that responds to the demand of real estate development,” he said. “It will become an annual exhibition, bringing together city developers, investors, governments, architects, designers, professionals and consumers involved in the real estate industry in Cambodia.”
“It is a new and relevant response to current property development trends in Cambodia,” said the Chairman when speaking to the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview. He added, “It really is a “must see” event for all involved in the real estate industry.”
He continued, “The main objective of the Real Estate Expo 2008 is to encourage and support growth in the residential and property markets nationwide. It is a place where leading developers, architects and relevant authorities can meet and get a better understanding of their common interests. They will find prospective partners to enhance and extend their businesses – it all promises to be a networking extravaganza”.
Chantrea L. Tra, the Sales and Marketing Manger for Whale Group, said the exhibitions will also have a major impact on local and foreign economies with increased spending predicted for local hotels, restaurants and transport. Overall, the profile of the city will be raised in the eyes of the world.
The Sales and Marketing Manager said that the exhibitions are a focus point for investment and will attract a broad cross-section of representatives from national and international real estate companies, trade associations and the media.
He continued that it is an opportunity to present the latest developments in the world of real estate to customers in a relaxed yet businesslike environment.
Around 40,000 local and foreign visitors will attend the Real Estate Expo 2008, according to the company’s estimates. The exhibition will make an early start at eight in the morning and continue until 9 pm. Entry is free for all.
Cham Prasidh, Senior Minister and Minister of Commerce said his government is in full agreement with the aims of the Whale Group’s Real Estate Exposition because the exhibition will be able to help in promoting investment in Cambodia.
The Minister pointed out that as a prime investment target in South East Asia, Cambodia has many advantages including a mature agricultural industry, a developing agro-industrial sector, a functional processing industry, a wealth of tourist attractions, as well as mineral wealth.
“Cambodian competitive advantages include favorable conditions in terms of land, weather, natural resources, low-cost and a hard working labor force, historical heritage and beautiful scenery,” the Minister told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone.
According to a report of the Ministry of Commerce, there is strong demand for commercial, residential and hotel construction; this has been the case since 2005 and remains the case today.
Cambodia will host Her first Real Estate Exposition over two days from 21st to 23rd November 2008. Ly Sok, Chairman of the Whale Group, a company that organizes events such as these said the expo would take place in Phnom Penh.
Sok, a business leader, strategist and entrepreneur, with experience in marketing and logistics, said the Whale Group will be supported by the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Land Management, Urban Planning and Construction and the Cambodian Federation of Employers and Business Associations.
The Chairman said that about 30 national and international companies form Korea, Malaysia and Singapore will take part in the exposition. Local exhibitors include Grand Phnom Penh International City, CamKO City, and Koh Pich, 7NG, IFC, Golden Tower 42, De Cassetle, Pharos Mekong, and Phnom Penh City Towers, 43 Apartment Developers and a further 9 Borey Developers in Cambodia.
“The Exposition which is a brand owned by Whale Event Management, is a new event that responds to the demand of real estate development,” he said. “It will become an annual exhibition, bringing together city developers, investors, governments, architects, designers, professionals and consumers involved in the real estate industry in Cambodia.”
“It is a new and relevant response to current property development trends in Cambodia,” said the Chairman when speaking to the Cambodia Weekly during a telephone interview. He added, “It really is a “must see” event for all involved in the real estate industry.”
He continued, “The main objective of the Real Estate Expo 2008 is to encourage and support growth in the residential and property markets nationwide. It is a place where leading developers, architects and relevant authorities can meet and get a better understanding of their common interests. They will find prospective partners to enhance and extend their businesses – it all promises to be a networking extravaganza”.
Chantrea L. Tra, the Sales and Marketing Manger for Whale Group, said the exhibitions will also have a major impact on local and foreign economies with increased spending predicted for local hotels, restaurants and transport. Overall, the profile of the city will be raised in the eyes of the world.
The Sales and Marketing Manager said that the exhibitions are a focus point for investment and will attract a broad cross-section of representatives from national and international real estate companies, trade associations and the media.
He continued that it is an opportunity to present the latest developments in the world of real estate to customers in a relaxed yet businesslike environment.
Around 40,000 local and foreign visitors will attend the Real Estate Expo 2008, according to the company’s estimates. The exhibition will make an early start at eight in the morning and continue until 9 pm. Entry is free for all.
Cham Prasidh, Senior Minister and Minister of Commerce said his government is in full agreement with the aims of the Whale Group’s Real Estate Exposition because the exhibition will be able to help in promoting investment in Cambodia.
The Minister pointed out that as a prime investment target in South East Asia, Cambodia has many advantages including a mature agricultural industry, a developing agro-industrial sector, a functional processing industry, a wealth of tourist attractions, as well as mineral wealth.
“Cambodian competitive advantages include favorable conditions in terms of land, weather, natural resources, low-cost and a hard working labor force, historical heritage and beautiful scenery,” the Minister told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone.
According to a report of the Ministry of Commerce, there is strong demand for commercial, residential and hotel construction; this has been the case since 2005 and remains the case today.
Cambodia Requests Inclusion of More Temples on World Heritage List
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
The Royal Government of Cambodia has made a request to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris, France, to include more temples and examples of traditional dances in the list of World Heritage Properties. Their inclusion will preserve these temples and other cultural artifacts for generations to come, said Him Chhem, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts (MoCFA).
The Minister said that his government recently requested UNESCO to insert Banteay Chhmar and Sambor Prey Kub temples in the list of World Heritage Properties, as well as Khmer traditional dances like Lakhaon Polsrey, Lakhaon Kol, Cheang Torng (Goldsmith) and Chapei Dangveng. These ancient expressions of Khmer culture encapsulate the pride, dignity and persistence of Cambodia and are thus worthy of inclusion in the list.
“We have asked UNESCO personnel to include the two Cambodian temples, traditional forms of theatre and dances in the Cultural Heritage List as we are certain that Humanity will agree these properties are worthy subjects to be preserved and protected against time,” the Minister told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on November 3.
The Minister continued, “We want people around the world to know that temples and a vast range of fine Khmer culture continue to exist in the Kingdom of Cambodia. If they wish to see these priceless temples, then Cambodia will welcome all such visitors with open arms.”
Som Sokun, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, said that Cambodian culture is known and respected across the globe and stands as an archetype for cultural expression in Southeast Asia.
Cambodia can boast numberless landmarks and an admirable repertoire of intangible cultural heritage in the form of dance, music and theatre. This art is set amidst some of Nature’s most spectacular scenery – all of which contrives to make Cambodia one of Southeast Asia’s richest repositories of delight, he said.
To date, the Cambodian government has been successful in getting five of the Nation’s prioritized traditional dances and temple sites included on the world heritage list, according to Sokun. He said that UNESCO has already included Royal Ballet, Sbeik Thom, Tonle Sap Lake, Angkor Wat and its compound areas, and Preah Vihear Temple in the list.
To achieve more representation, Sokun said his Ministry had recently submitted a proposal through the Cambodian National Committee, which works in amicable partnership with UNESCO, to include the Prasat Banteay Chhmar and Prasat Prey Kub, as well as Lakhaon Khoal, Chapei Dang Veng and Cheang Torng.
“We believe with all our hearts in the necessity of inclusion for these classical Khmer dances and the temples in the list. We then can then take appropriate measures to ensure the conservation of these properties for generations to come,” he said.
The Secretary of State said that his ministry has been working hard to train new students, teachers and researchers to appreciate the vitality of Cambodia’s past, as expressed in outstanding works of art. They will then be capable of communicating this appreciation to scholars of Khmer culture across the world.
He said his ministry is now collaborating with involved ministries, institutions and other partners in Cambodia to build a library of documents to classify and describe the full range of surviving Khmer cultures and traditions.
Meas Sarun, Technical Secretary General of MoCFA, said that according to report, there were up to 4,500 traditional dances and 256 different styles of music in Cambodia. He also said that because of the turbulent past, 102 traditional dances and 31 theatrical styles were now lost forever. Of the remainder the Ministry had managed to codify and preserve 72 traditional dances and 27 traditional theatre styles and these were now enjoying a renaissance in Cambodia.
He added that to date, MoCFA, in collaboration with others, was working very hard to research and hopefully find material on those art forms that fell victim to the dark years of the ‘70’s.
Teruo Jinnai, representative of UNESCO in Cambodia, is fully aware of the value and extent of Cambodian culture, and believes the nation is one of the richest in terms of artistic wealth in the entire region.
Jinnai recently said at the opening session of a Workshop on the Basics of Royal Ballet, held at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, that Royal Ballet is considered to be a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. The dance style gained this reputation on November 7, 2003, whilst Sbeik Thom was included in the list on 25 May 2005.
“From this point on, Cambodians assumed supreme proprietorship over these Masterpieces, but they became the possessions of the whole world. Being involved in this process was a pure pleasure and I will remember those days as the most exciting of my time here in Cambodia,” he said. “It is a pleasure to see that recently many Cambodians are coming to cultural events, and enjoying music, films and performing arts. We are ready to support the MoCFA in further efforts to promote public awareness of Cambodian intangible heritage. We can turn these performances into annual events, both for the provinces and urban areas.”
He continued, “We are happily committed to continue to work with masters, artists, and the Ministry to safeguard, preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Cambodia.”
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The Royal Government of Cambodia has made a request to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris, France, to include more temples and examples of traditional dances in the list of World Heritage Properties. Their inclusion will preserve these temples and other cultural artifacts for generations to come, said Him Chhem, Minister of Culture and Fine Arts (MoCFA).
The Minister said that his government recently requested UNESCO to insert Banteay Chhmar and Sambor Prey Kub temples in the list of World Heritage Properties, as well as Khmer traditional dances like Lakhaon Polsrey, Lakhaon Kol, Cheang Torng (Goldsmith) and Chapei Dangveng. These ancient expressions of Khmer culture encapsulate the pride, dignity and persistence of Cambodia and are thus worthy of inclusion in the list.
“We have asked UNESCO personnel to include the two Cambodian temples, traditional forms of theatre and dances in the Cultural Heritage List as we are certain that Humanity will agree these properties are worthy subjects to be preserved and protected against time,” the Minister told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on November 3.
The Minister continued, “We want people around the world to know that temples and a vast range of fine Khmer culture continue to exist in the Kingdom of Cambodia. If they wish to see these priceless temples, then Cambodia will welcome all such visitors with open arms.”
Som Sokun, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, said that Cambodian culture is known and respected across the globe and stands as an archetype for cultural expression in Southeast Asia.
Cambodia can boast numberless landmarks and an admirable repertoire of intangible cultural heritage in the form of dance, music and theatre. This art is set amidst some of Nature’s most spectacular scenery – all of which contrives to make Cambodia one of Southeast Asia’s richest repositories of delight, he said.
To date, the Cambodian government has been successful in getting five of the Nation’s prioritized traditional dances and temple sites included on the world heritage list, according to Sokun. He said that UNESCO has already included Royal Ballet, Sbeik Thom, Tonle Sap Lake, Angkor Wat and its compound areas, and Preah Vihear Temple in the list.
To achieve more representation, Sokun said his Ministry had recently submitted a proposal through the Cambodian National Committee, which works in amicable partnership with UNESCO, to include the Prasat Banteay Chhmar and Prasat Prey Kub, as well as Lakhaon Khoal, Chapei Dang Veng and Cheang Torng.
“We believe with all our hearts in the necessity of inclusion for these classical Khmer dances and the temples in the list. We then can then take appropriate measures to ensure the conservation of these properties for generations to come,” he said.
The Secretary of State said that his ministry has been working hard to train new students, teachers and researchers to appreciate the vitality of Cambodia’s past, as expressed in outstanding works of art. They will then be capable of communicating this appreciation to scholars of Khmer culture across the world.
He said his ministry is now collaborating with involved ministries, institutions and other partners in Cambodia to build a library of documents to classify and describe the full range of surviving Khmer cultures and traditions.
Meas Sarun, Technical Secretary General of MoCFA, said that according to report, there were up to 4,500 traditional dances and 256 different styles of music in Cambodia. He also said that because of the turbulent past, 102 traditional dances and 31 theatrical styles were now lost forever. Of the remainder the Ministry had managed to codify and preserve 72 traditional dances and 27 traditional theatre styles and these were now enjoying a renaissance in Cambodia.
He added that to date, MoCFA, in collaboration with others, was working very hard to research and hopefully find material on those art forms that fell victim to the dark years of the ‘70’s.
Teruo Jinnai, representative of UNESCO in Cambodia, is fully aware of the value and extent of Cambodian culture, and believes the nation is one of the richest in terms of artistic wealth in the entire region.
Jinnai recently said at the opening session of a Workshop on the Basics of Royal Ballet, held at the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, that Royal Ballet is considered to be a “Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity”. The dance style gained this reputation on November 7, 2003, whilst Sbeik Thom was included in the list on 25 May 2005.
“From this point on, Cambodians assumed supreme proprietorship over these Masterpieces, but they became the possessions of the whole world. Being involved in this process was a pure pleasure and I will remember those days as the most exciting of my time here in Cambodia,” he said. “It is a pleasure to see that recently many Cambodians are coming to cultural events, and enjoying music, films and performing arts. We are ready to support the MoCFA in further efforts to promote public awareness of Cambodian intangible heritage. We can turn these performances into annual events, both for the provinces and urban areas.”
He continued, “We are happily committed to continue to work with masters, artists, and the Ministry to safeguard, preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Cambodia.”
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Saturday, November 8, 2008
Cambodia and Thailand Prepare for Border Talks on November 10-12
BY SOY SOPHEA AND REAKSMEY KONG KEA
The next round of border talks will be conducted over two days in Siem Reap province, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. He said the meeting later in the week will hopefully produce a fruitful outcome as these are the intentions of the Cambodian delegates, headed by the optimistic Under Secretary of State and it is to be assumed, of his Thai counterparts.
The boundary negotiators from the both sides have fixed a two-day period for the meeting in Siem Reap, November 10 - 11 with a Foreign Ministerial meeting to be held on November 12 in Siem Reap in a bid to end a months-long military standoff, according to Koy Kuong.
Tea Banh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minster of National Defense, said that he is now holding a meeting with all members of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes (NCRBD) at the Ministry of National Defense in Phnom Penh.
“The meeting has been called to discuss technical aspects and solutions in detail among NCRBD members, prior to leaving for Siem Reap and the Cambodia-Thai Border Talks,” he told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on November 7.
Shortly after a round of talks failed last month, troops from the two countries clashed in a border firefight on October 15 on disputed land near Cambodia's ancient Preah Vihear temple, at Veal Intry.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his counterpart Somchai Wongsawat recently discussed the border issue and agreed in principle to a conceptual solution to the issue during bilateral talks that took place quietly on the sidelines of a 43-nation Asian-European submit in China’s capital, Beijing.
Two rounds of emergency talks after the October clashes made little progress, with both sides only agreeing not to fire on each other again, thus maintaining an uneasy truce.
The most recent tensions began in July when the 11th Century Preah Vihear was awarded United Nations World Heritage status, rekindling a long-running disagreement over ownership of the surrounding land.
The next round of border talks will be conducted over two days in Siem Reap province, according to Koy Kuong, Under Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. He said the meeting later in the week will hopefully produce a fruitful outcome as these are the intentions of the Cambodian delegates, headed by the optimistic Under Secretary of State and it is to be assumed, of his Thai counterparts.
The boundary negotiators from the both sides have fixed a two-day period for the meeting in Siem Reap, November 10 - 11 with a Foreign Ministerial meeting to be held on November 12 in Siem Reap in a bid to end a months-long military standoff, according to Koy Kuong.
Tea Banh, Deputy Prime Minister and Minster of National Defense, said that he is now holding a meeting with all members of the National Committee for the Resolution of Border Disputes (NCRBD) at the Ministry of National Defense in Phnom Penh.
“The meeting has been called to discuss technical aspects and solutions in detail among NCRBD members, prior to leaving for Siem Reap and the Cambodia-Thai Border Talks,” he told the Cambodia Weekly by telephone on November 7.
Shortly after a round of talks failed last month, troops from the two countries clashed in a border firefight on October 15 on disputed land near Cambodia's ancient Preah Vihear temple, at Veal Intry.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his counterpart Somchai Wongsawat recently discussed the border issue and agreed in principle to a conceptual solution to the issue during bilateral talks that took place quietly on the sidelines of a 43-nation Asian-European submit in China’s capital, Beijing.
Two rounds of emergency talks after the October clashes made little progress, with both sides only agreeing not to fire on each other again, thus maintaining an uneasy truce.
The most recent tensions began in July when the 11th Century Preah Vihear was awarded United Nations World Heritage status, rekindling a long-running disagreement over ownership of the surrounding land.
Malaysia-Cambodian Healthcare Business Opportunities held in Phnom Penh
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
A seminar on Malaysia-Cambodian Healthcare Business Opportunities has been conducted at the Intercontinental Hotel, in Phnom Penh, on November 6, 2008.
The event included an Exhibition, the opportunity to hold one-on-one Individual Business Meetings with Malaysian companies and Healthcare Talks on Neurology and Cardiology by speakers from Malaysia.
Mohamad Kamarudin Hassan, Deputy Chief Officer of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), said that the event was jointly organized by MATRADE and the Malaysian Ministry of Health. Further support was provided by the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia (APHM).
Kamarudin Hassan said that about 15 delegates including Malaysian government officials, APHM delegates, healthcare professionals and a range of other health service providers attended the seminar.
He said, “It is the first time that MATRADE has organized this important event in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The main objective of the Malaysian mission is to explore business opportunities and areas for collaboration between Malaysia and Cambodian companies in the healthcare and related services sector as well as medical products and devices.”
He continued, “We hope to establish useful business contacts and network with local importers, healthcare service providers, medical practitioners, insurance companies, tour operators, banks, multinational companies and government agencies and associations related to the health sector. We will also strengthen the existing business linkages between Malaysia and Cambodia,” he added.
Thea Kruy, Undersecretary of Sate in Ministry of Health, welcomed the Malaysia-Cambodian Healthcare Business Opportunities Forum to Phnom Penh. He said that the forum would bring new healthcare services and advanced medical care from Malaysia in order to enhance the quality of healthcare services and medical treatment in Cambodia.
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A seminar on Malaysia-Cambodian Healthcare Business Opportunities has been conducted at the Intercontinental Hotel, in Phnom Penh, on November 6, 2008.
The event included an Exhibition, the opportunity to hold one-on-one Individual Business Meetings with Malaysian companies and Healthcare Talks on Neurology and Cardiology by speakers from Malaysia.
Mohamad Kamarudin Hassan, Deputy Chief Officer of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), said that the event was jointly organized by MATRADE and the Malaysian Ministry of Health. Further support was provided by the Association of Private Hospitals of Malaysia (APHM).
Kamarudin Hassan said that about 15 delegates including Malaysian government officials, APHM delegates, healthcare professionals and a range of other health service providers attended the seminar.
He said, “It is the first time that MATRADE has organized this important event in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. The main objective of the Malaysian mission is to explore business opportunities and areas for collaboration between Malaysia and Cambodian companies in the healthcare and related services sector as well as medical products and devices.”
He continued, “We hope to establish useful business contacts and network with local importers, healthcare service providers, medical practitioners, insurance companies, tour operators, banks, multinational companies and government agencies and associations related to the health sector. We will also strengthen the existing business linkages between Malaysia and Cambodia,” he added.
Thea Kruy, Undersecretary of Sate in Ministry of Health, welcomed the Malaysia-Cambodian Healthcare Business Opportunities Forum to Phnom Penh. He said that the forum would bring new healthcare services and advanced medical care from Malaysia in order to enhance the quality of healthcare services and medical treatment in Cambodia.
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Top Music Show 2008 being held in Phnom Penh
By BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
Reaksmey Hang Meas Video, a private company in Cambodia has planned to host a musical extravaganza, a one day celebration of Cambodia’s musical talent to be held under the banner of Reaksmey Hang Meas Top Music Show 2008”. The event has been scheduled for November 9 at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.
Oeng Sokly, Events Director of Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company, said that this will be the second celebration, following the success of last year’s event held at the Chenla Theater in Phnom Penh. That event drew in a 20,000 strong audience and organizers hope to attract a similar number this year.
“The Top Music 2008 will be a celebratory event in honor of the 55th Anniversary of National Independence Day, which is always an important date in any Cambodian’s calendar,” he said. “We also hope to energize the tourism sector and improve the ability and skills of the singers and musicians. This will be an international event and we know that the artistes are looking forward to the opportunity to showcase their talents.”
The Events Director continued that the Top Music Show 2008” was organized by Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company in cooperation with the Hello 015, 016 Company, the Malaysian Tourism Council and the Anchor Beer Company in Cambodia.
About 10 well-known and popular singers in Cambodia will be presented at the Top Music Show, including Mr. Preap Sowath, Mr. Sampoun Midada, Mr. Nob Payarith, Chhorn Sovannareach, Ms. Pich Sophea and Ms. Ork Sokunkahna amongst others.
According to plan, Top Music will not be available on live TV, but the whole of the concert will be recorded, with VCDs and DVDs available for sale to an international market at a later date.
The Events Director said that to date, at least 10,000 people had bought tickets for the show, which will start at 6:00PM and go on until midnight on November 9, 2008 at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.
He said that the tickets range from 20,000 riel ($5) to 30,000 riel ($7.3) per person and are available at his Company office and its branches in Phnom Penh.
Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company was established in 1993, and now has branch offices in 23 cities and provinces throughout the country, according to Sokly. He said that his company is a leader in the world of professional media post production, covering professional filmmaking, advertising spots, and Karaoke productions for the Cambodian market.
So far, the company has produced a thousand volumes of VCDs and DVDs, covering classical dance, folk dance, music shows and karaoke hits. He said the company has also produced a film and will continue to produce more films and concerts in future.
Reaksmey Hang Meas Video, a private company in Cambodia has planned to host a musical extravaganza, a one day celebration of Cambodia’s musical talent to be held under the banner of Reaksmey Hang Meas Top Music Show 2008”. The event has been scheduled for November 9 at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.
Oeng Sokly, Events Director of Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company, said that this will be the second celebration, following the success of last year’s event held at the Chenla Theater in Phnom Penh. That event drew in a 20,000 strong audience and organizers hope to attract a similar number this year.
“The Top Music 2008 will be a celebratory event in honor of the 55th Anniversary of National Independence Day, which is always an important date in any Cambodian’s calendar,” he said. “We also hope to energize the tourism sector and improve the ability and skills of the singers and musicians. This will be an international event and we know that the artistes are looking forward to the opportunity to showcase their talents.”
The Events Director continued that the Top Music Show 2008” was organized by Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company in cooperation with the Hello 015, 016 Company, the Malaysian Tourism Council and the Anchor Beer Company in Cambodia.
About 10 well-known and popular singers in Cambodia will be presented at the Top Music Show, including Mr. Preap Sowath, Mr. Sampoun Midada, Mr. Nob Payarith, Chhorn Sovannareach, Ms. Pich Sophea and Ms. Ork Sokunkahna amongst others.
According to plan, Top Music will not be available on live TV, but the whole of the concert will be recorded, with VCDs and DVDs available for sale to an international market at a later date.
The Events Director said that to date, at least 10,000 people had bought tickets for the show, which will start at 6:00PM and go on until midnight on November 9, 2008 at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh.
He said that the tickets range from 20,000 riel ($5) to 30,000 riel ($7.3) per person and are available at his Company office and its branches in Phnom Penh.
Reaksmey Hang Meas Video Company was established in 1993, and now has branch offices in 23 cities and provinces throughout the country, according to Sokly. He said that his company is a leader in the world of professional media post production, covering professional filmmaking, advertising spots, and Karaoke productions for the Cambodian market.
So far, the company has produced a thousand volumes of VCDs and DVDs, covering classical dance, folk dance, music shows and karaoke hits. He said the company has also produced a film and will continue to produce more films and concerts in future.
Cambodia Selects National Archers for International Competition
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
The Cambodian Archery Federation has conducted a National Archery Competition in preparation for international competition. All told, there were 109 toxophilites, including 15 female competitors from eight of the nation’s Archery clubs and other associations in Phnom Penh.
The competition was scheduled to run over five days from 3-7 November at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh. It was organized by the Cambodian Archery Federation (CAF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS).
Kong Diep, Deputy Secretary General of CAF, said that this is the 9th competition to be held this year and the goal is to select the most steady-handed, steely-eyed archer to go forward and represent the nation in international competition. Quite apart from this, the crowd of informed and enthusiastic spectators thrilled to the sight of Cambodian athletes as they combined strength in exploiting the flexibility of the bow with an understanding of the aerodynamics of the straight arrow, to produce accuracy.
He said the main purpose of the competition was to select outstanding archers from across the country for entry into Cambodia’s further National Championships this Year. He added that the objective of competitions is to select the new Cambodian archers and prepare them to compete at the SEA Games in 2009, which will be held in Vientiane, Laos.
Such a high-profile competition will also help to promote the noble art of Archery. As readers of the “Rajamanak” or “Ream Ker Story” will remember, Cambodia has a long and rich tradition in archery and this competition also aims to preserve interest in the sport, he said.
The competition is divided into two categories; the first category is for male competitors who will compete over ranges of 30, 50 and 60 meters. The second category is for female competitors who will test their accuracy over 30 and 50 meter ranges.
He continued that the archers who fill the first places will receive gold medals, along with other valuable prizes, with silver and bronze awards for the brave runners-up. The prizes have been provided by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, generous as ever in supporting and developing the nation’s contenders.
Diep said the CAF will send the names of the gold medalists forward to attend international competition in the SEA games to be held in Laos, next year. He also noted that these competitors will be supported by MoEYS throughout the course of their training.
He said that those who win the gold, silver and bronze medals would be supported by Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport for their livings and trainings at National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh in preparation for future international competitions.
Uy Kea, Technical Archery Coach and Executive Member of CAF, said that his Federation was established in 1999 by Khieu Kanarith, Minister of Information. He said the CAF’s objectives aimed at developing and promoting Cambodian Archery in preparation for future international competitions.
Since 2000, the federation has recruited and trained 16 champions for entry into National Championships in Cambodia, Kea told the Cambodia Weekly during a personal interview on November 5.
“I have observed from year to year, Cambodian archery has developed and our archers have improved with increased exposure to competition,” he said. “I hope that through these competitions and hard training, Cambodian archers will gain more experience and become competitors to be feared and respected by all-comers at international level.”
Em Vany, 34 and an enthusiastic archer from the Thou Sar Association in Phnom Penh, said that it marked the first time for her to attend competition in Phnom Penh. She said that she had been attracted to the sport for as long as she could remember and she was lucky to have the opportunity to train with her friends since 2007. She said that she had been training hard and was focused on bringing home a medal for the honor of her club and family.
“I am completely focused because this is my only wish. It is a graceful, elegant and in my opinion, a lady-like sport involving skill, strength and the archer’s ability to view the arrow as an extension of the self. I have found friendship with like-minded ladies at the club and I would recommend it to anyone.”
She continued “The act of loosing off an arrow appears to be a matter of little thought. However, I find it a meditative art, similar to the process involved in making a big decision. One marshals one’s strength, bending it towards making intelligent use of the tools at hand and calculating the likely trajectory of the intention. Then, there is a moment of release, when the power of concentration is transformed in an instant into the awful power of a potentially lethal projectile in flight,” she said.
Vann Tina, 22, another archer from the Kann Meanchey Club in Phnom Penh, said that he had blooded himself in five competitions to date.
“I am delighted to be invited to attend the archery competitions again this year. This is the fifth time I have fought for the honour of my Club in these competitions. I won a gold medal last year and now I hope to win again; I’m confident of doing so, given my experience,” he said.
He continued that he used to win gold medals in National Archery Competitions in Phnom Penh over the last four years. He added that he also attended competitions in Thailand and Vietnam but he had found success elusive in these competitions.
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The Cambodian Archery Federation has conducted a National Archery Competition in preparation for international competition. All told, there were 109 toxophilites, including 15 female competitors from eight of the nation’s Archery clubs and other associations in Phnom Penh.
The competition was scheduled to run over five days from 3-7 November at the National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh. It was organized by the Cambodian Archery Federation (CAF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS).
Kong Diep, Deputy Secretary General of CAF, said that this is the 9th competition to be held this year and the goal is to select the most steady-handed, steely-eyed archer to go forward and represent the nation in international competition. Quite apart from this, the crowd of informed and enthusiastic spectators thrilled to the sight of Cambodian athletes as they combined strength in exploiting the flexibility of the bow with an understanding of the aerodynamics of the straight arrow, to produce accuracy.
He said the main purpose of the competition was to select outstanding archers from across the country for entry into Cambodia’s further National Championships this Year. He added that the objective of competitions is to select the new Cambodian archers and prepare them to compete at the SEA Games in 2009, which will be held in Vientiane, Laos.
Such a high-profile competition will also help to promote the noble art of Archery. As readers of the “Rajamanak” or “Ream Ker Story” will remember, Cambodia has a long and rich tradition in archery and this competition also aims to preserve interest in the sport, he said.
The competition is divided into two categories; the first category is for male competitors who will compete over ranges of 30, 50 and 60 meters. The second category is for female competitors who will test their accuracy over 30 and 50 meter ranges.
He continued that the archers who fill the first places will receive gold medals, along with other valuable prizes, with silver and bronze awards for the brave runners-up. The prizes have been provided by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport, generous as ever in supporting and developing the nation’s contenders.
Diep said the CAF will send the names of the gold medalists forward to attend international competition in the SEA games to be held in Laos, next year. He also noted that these competitors will be supported by MoEYS throughout the course of their training.
He said that those who win the gold, silver and bronze medals would be supported by Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport for their livings and trainings at National Olympic Stadium in Phnom Penh in preparation for future international competitions.
Uy Kea, Technical Archery Coach and Executive Member of CAF, said that his Federation was established in 1999 by Khieu Kanarith, Minister of Information. He said the CAF’s objectives aimed at developing and promoting Cambodian Archery in preparation for future international competitions.
Since 2000, the federation has recruited and trained 16 champions for entry into National Championships in Cambodia, Kea told the Cambodia Weekly during a personal interview on November 5.
“I have observed from year to year, Cambodian archery has developed and our archers have improved with increased exposure to competition,” he said. “I hope that through these competitions and hard training, Cambodian archers will gain more experience and become competitors to be feared and respected by all-comers at international level.”
Em Vany, 34 and an enthusiastic archer from the Thou Sar Association in Phnom Penh, said that it marked the first time for her to attend competition in Phnom Penh. She said that she had been attracted to the sport for as long as she could remember and she was lucky to have the opportunity to train with her friends since 2007. She said that she had been training hard and was focused on bringing home a medal for the honor of her club and family.
“I am completely focused because this is my only wish. It is a graceful, elegant and in my opinion, a lady-like sport involving skill, strength and the archer’s ability to view the arrow as an extension of the self. I have found friendship with like-minded ladies at the club and I would recommend it to anyone.”
She continued “The act of loosing off an arrow appears to be a matter of little thought. However, I find it a meditative art, similar to the process involved in making a big decision. One marshals one’s strength, bending it towards making intelligent use of the tools at hand and calculating the likely trajectory of the intention. Then, there is a moment of release, when the power of concentration is transformed in an instant into the awful power of a potentially lethal projectile in flight,” she said.
Vann Tina, 22, another archer from the Kann Meanchey Club in Phnom Penh, said that he had blooded himself in five competitions to date.
“I am delighted to be invited to attend the archery competitions again this year. This is the fifth time I have fought for the honour of my Club in these competitions. I won a gold medal last year and now I hope to win again; I’m confident of doing so, given my experience,” he said.
He continued that he used to win gold medals in National Archery Competitions in Phnom Penh over the last four years. He added that he also attended competitions in Thailand and Vietnam but he had found success elusive in these competitions.
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Cambodia-UNESCO Examine Preah Vihear Temple
BY BUTH REAKSMEY KONGKEA
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has examined the status of the Preah Vihear temple in a tour of the area that took place on November 7. They inspected damage caused by grenades during clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops, said Phay Siphan, Secretary of State at the Council of Ministers.
The Secretary of State said the move followed claims made by the Cambodian National Committee, in partnership with UNESCO officials that the statuary and staircase of the 11th century monument had been damaged by Thai grenades during clashes.
Siphan said that UNESCO will attempt to get a clear idea of the facts and to take action to prevent further damage in future. He said the damage had been caused by Thai rockets launched during the clashes on October 15.
“We will not press for financial recompense from the Thais because Preah Vihear temple is now World Heritage Property. But we want Thailand, who is also a member of UNESCO to cooperate with all parties to protect the priceless temple,” he said.
In order to create a protected zone around the World Heritage site, three signs that announce the site’s World Heritage status, under the protection of UNESCO and the international community have been posted. The precedent for these measures was set by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1953, said Siphan. He added that the new signs will demarcate the newly created protection zone to deter any future conflict in the area.
"We hope that after the World Heritage signs are posted at the Preah Vihear Temple, there will be no further shooting on the temple or in the protection zone,"
Hang Soth, Director General of Preah Vihear Authority, said he sent a report about the shooting to UNESCO on October 17. The report also included a request for protection of the temple. He noted that the temples dignity has been outraged with the addition of over 100 pockmarks where bullets and rocket rounds impacted the venerable site.
Teruo Jinnai, Representative of UNSECO in Cambodia, told the Cambodia Weekly that to preserve and protect Preah Vihear temple against damage in future, the Cambodian government should prepare a master plan detailing the temple project and send this document to UNESCO’s office in Cambodia. This will then be sent on for further consideration at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, where it will be reviewed prior to approval and financial support.
He said that UNESCO has funded many projects for the Cambodian government, such as repairing Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Prasat Banteay Srey and Traprumh temples in Siem Reap province.
According to Cambodian historical documents, Preah Vihear Temple is situated at the Cambodian-Thai border, atop the 625 meter-high Preah Vihear Mountain in Svay Chhrum village, Kantuot commune, Choam Ksan district. This is 108 kilometers north of Tbaeng Meanchey, the capital of Preah Vihear province. The temple is 800 meters long and 400 meters wide.
The temple is one of the most striking to have been built during the 600-year-long Khmer empire. It was mainly built over a 100-150 year period during the reigns of kings Suryavarman (1002-1050) and Suryavarman II (1113-1150). Its main architectural features are Khmer in origin but signs of earlier influences, particularly the Bantery Srei style are noticeable in the earlier buildings.
The Preah Vihear temple includes some superb carved friezes; one is of particular interest as it shows King Suryavarman II going about his devotions and presenting gifts of white parasols, gold bowls and elephants to his spiritual leader. This carved frieze is just one example of the outstanding carvings to be found at the temple.
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The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), has examined the status of the Preah Vihear temple in a tour of the area that took place on November 7. They inspected damage caused by grenades during clashes between Cambodian and Thai troops, said Phay Siphan, Secretary of State at the Council of Ministers.
The Secretary of State said the move followed claims made by the Cambodian National Committee, in partnership with UNESCO officials that the statuary and staircase of the 11th century monument had been damaged by Thai grenades during clashes.
Siphan said that UNESCO will attempt to get a clear idea of the facts and to take action to prevent further damage in future. He said the damage had been caused by Thai rockets launched during the clashes on October 15.
“We will not press for financial recompense from the Thais because Preah Vihear temple is now World Heritage Property. But we want Thailand, who is also a member of UNESCO to cooperate with all parties to protect the priceless temple,” he said.
In order to create a protected zone around the World Heritage site, three signs that announce the site’s World Heritage status, under the protection of UNESCO and the international community have been posted. The precedent for these measures was set by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 1953, said Siphan. He added that the new signs will demarcate the newly created protection zone to deter any future conflict in the area.
"We hope that after the World Heritage signs are posted at the Preah Vihear Temple, there will be no further shooting on the temple or in the protection zone,"
Hang Soth, Director General of Preah Vihear Authority, said he sent a report about the shooting to UNESCO on October 17. The report also included a request for protection of the temple. He noted that the temples dignity has been outraged with the addition of over 100 pockmarks where bullets and rocket rounds impacted the venerable site.
Teruo Jinnai, Representative of UNSECO in Cambodia, told the Cambodia Weekly that to preserve and protect Preah Vihear temple against damage in future, the Cambodian government should prepare a master plan detailing the temple project and send this document to UNESCO’s office in Cambodia. This will then be sent on for further consideration at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, where it will be reviewed prior to approval and financial support.
He said that UNESCO has funded many projects for the Cambodian government, such as repairing Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, Prasat Banteay Srey and Traprumh temples in Siem Reap province.
According to Cambodian historical documents, Preah Vihear Temple is situated at the Cambodian-Thai border, atop the 625 meter-high Preah Vihear Mountain in Svay Chhrum village, Kantuot commune, Choam Ksan district. This is 108 kilometers north of Tbaeng Meanchey, the capital of Preah Vihear province. The temple is 800 meters long and 400 meters wide.
The temple is one of the most striking to have been built during the 600-year-long Khmer empire. It was mainly built over a 100-150 year period during the reigns of kings Suryavarman (1002-1050) and Suryavarman II (1113-1150). Its main architectural features are Khmer in origin but signs of earlier influences, particularly the Bantery Srei style are noticeable in the earlier buildings.
The Preah Vihear temple includes some superb carved friezes; one is of particular interest as it shows King Suryavarman II going about his devotions and presenting gifts of white parasols, gold bowls and elephants to his spiritual leader. This carved frieze is just one example of the outstanding carvings to be found at the temple.
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