Monday, 16 June 2008
French company to invest $250 mln to develop resort in Cambodia
16 Jun 2008
bbj.hu
A French-financed company will invest $250 million to develop the Ream area in Cambodia’s port city of Sihanoukville into a resort, according to Ieng Sophallet, assistant to Prime Minister Hun Sen, Friday.
Alain Dupuis, French citizen and director of the Ream Resort Development Company, met with Hun Sen Thursday to find support from the government for his project, he added. Khmer-language newspaper the Rsamei Kampuchea Friday quoted Alain as telling the premier that his company will construct five-star hotels, other accommodation facilities, golf course, leisure places along the beach and motor-boat sporting project for tourists in the Ream region.
The premier welcomed the investment and requested the company to work with the Council for Development of Cambodia to achieve success, it added. Construction of the project will start in late 2008 and be finished in 2010. Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s major sight-seeing destination. Sandy beach and clean sea used to attract tens of thousands of travelers annually. (Xinhua)
bbj.hu
A French-financed company will invest $250 million to develop the Ream area in Cambodia’s port city of Sihanoukville into a resort, according to Ieng Sophallet, assistant to Prime Minister Hun Sen, Friday.
Alain Dupuis, French citizen and director of the Ream Resort Development Company, met with Hun Sen Thursday to find support from the government for his project, he added. Khmer-language newspaper the Rsamei Kampuchea Friday quoted Alain as telling the premier that his company will construct five-star hotels, other accommodation facilities, golf course, leisure places along the beach and motor-boat sporting project for tourists in the Ream region.
The premier welcomed the investment and requested the company to work with the Council for Development of Cambodia to achieve success, it added. Construction of the project will start in late 2008 and be finished in 2010. Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s major sight-seeing destination. Sandy beach and clean sea used to attract tens of thousands of travelers annually. (Xinhua)
Japan's Hino trucks enter Cambodian market
www.chinaview.cn
2008-06-16
PHNOM PENH, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Hino Motors Ltd. of Japan here Monday opened its sole official distributing branch in Cambodia toprovide the ever increasing infrastructure construction market with dump trucks, cargo trucks and concrete mixers.
"I am confident that these lines of proven high-quality brand-new vehicles from Hino will be one of the best solutions to the needs of our growing nation," said Sy King Triv, whose KT Pacific Group jointly established the branch with Hino Motors Ltd. in suburb Phnom Penh.
Hino will soon fit in with the truck market of Cambodia and upgrade the current situation that second-hand trucks are dominant,hence generating problems like high cost of fuel, low efficiency and frequent maintenance, he said.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador Shinonara Katsuhiro told the inauguration ceremony of the joint venture, KT Hino Motors Pte Ltd., that "new activities, such as this launch, are the result of efforts made by both Japan and Cambodia and will contribute towards stimulating other companies to make investments in such activities."
Hino has been Japan's top producer of medium and heavy-duty trucks for almost three decades.
Cambodia has been improving its infrastructure facilities in recent years. Road, bridge, apartment and skyscraper projects wereinaugurated one after another in urban as well as rural areas.
Editor: An Lu
PHNOM PENH, June 16 (Xinhua) -- Hino Motors Ltd. of Japan here Monday opened its sole official distributing branch in Cambodia toprovide the ever increasing infrastructure construction market with dump trucks, cargo trucks and concrete mixers.
"I am confident that these lines of proven high-quality brand-new vehicles from Hino will be one of the best solutions to the needs of our growing nation," said Sy King Triv, whose KT Pacific Group jointly established the branch with Hino Motors Ltd. in suburb Phnom Penh.
Hino will soon fit in with the truck market of Cambodia and upgrade the current situation that second-hand trucks are dominant,hence generating problems like high cost of fuel, low efficiency and frequent maintenance, he said.
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador Shinonara Katsuhiro told the inauguration ceremony of the joint venture, KT Hino Motors Pte Ltd., that "new activities, such as this launch, are the result of efforts made by both Japan and Cambodia and will contribute towards stimulating other companies to make investments in such activities."
Hino has been Japan's top producer of medium and heavy-duty trucks for almost three decades.
Cambodia has been improving its infrastructure facilities in recent years. Road, bridge, apartment and skyscraper projects wereinaugurated one after another in urban as well as rural areas.
Editor: An Lu
Hun Sen: The Oligarchic Ruler Of Cambodia?
Read Dam Sith's release.
Editorial by Khmerization
Courtesy of Khmerization at http://khmerization.blogspot.com/
__________________________________
“Cambodia of today has been superficially viewed in many misleading ways. On the surface, it appears to be a full functioning parliamentary democracy, with the parliament and the prime minister elected for a 5-year term. Deep down, Cambodia is nothing but governed by an oligarchy - a government run by a small kleptocratic or plutocratic group with Prime Minister Hun Sen as the head.”
_________________________________
My poor Cambodia and her subjects have been governed by clumsy rulers for many generations. One way or the other, she has been ruled and misruled by despots, incompetent and corrupt leaders or simply by a small group of kleptocratic and plutocratic oligarchs. It is this reality that Cambodia remained poor and backward for generations.
Cambodia of today has been superficially viewed in many misleading ways. On the surface, it appears to be a full functioning parliamentary democracy, with the parliament and the prime minister elected for a 5-year term. Deep down, Cambodia is nothing but governed by an oligarchy - a government run by a small kleptocratic or plutocratic group with Prime Minister Hun Sen as the head.
The sad reality is that Cambodia of today is ruled or misruled by one man. Cambodia, if analysed thoroughly, has a hallmark of a despotic one-man show with his kleptocratic or plutocratic elites as his backbones and lifelines. His kleptocratic and plutocratic oligarchs are allowed to plunder and pillage Cambodia’s natural resources and to rob the villagers’ lands at free will. And with a stroke of a one man’s pen anything is achievable.
Coming back to my discussion topic, I would like to draw an attention of the readers of this article to one recent classic example of a one man rule. Many would view or tend to believe that Dam Sith’s arrest was simply derived from a defamation law suit brought on him by Foreign Minister Hor Namhong. In my opinion, Hor Namhong’s defamation suit was just a pretext used to harass and victimise opposition politicians. Dam sith’s arrest was a case of a concerted effort by the Cambodia People Party’s (CPP) leadership, in particular Mr. Hun Sen, to get Sam Rainsy or simply to frighten him into fleeing the country. Facing with electoral defeat, the CPP and in particular PM Hun Sen, has deployed their effective weapons to kill Rainsy’s victory chances - and that is to destroy his party with coerced defections and with their intimidation tactic in order to send Rainsy into exile. But, this time, their attempt failed miserably because Rainsy was not intimidated. Realising that his tactic didn’t work, coupled with strong pressures from local and international human right groups, Mr. Hun Sen capitulated and, with a stroke of his pen, Dam Sith was set free.
The arrest of Dam Sith and his release from prison with only a stroke of a pen of a single man proved that Cambodia is a lawless state. While I applaud and appreciate the PM’s intervention for Mr. Dam Sith’s release, I also condemn with the way in which his incarceration and exoneration was handled. It was apparent that his arrest was orchestrated by Mr. Hor Namhong with Mr. Hun Sen’s blessing. The court or the poor judge was simply used as a political tool to formalise and legitimise the arrest. This was evident with Mr. Hun Sen’s intervention, when due judicial process was bypassed.
I agreed with Mr. Sam Rainsy when he said that, when a single person decides everything, a lot of time and energy was wasted. The Dam Sith saga has used up a lot of energy and has diverted a lot of attention from the more serious issues of land disputes, youth unemployment, health or economic problems that the nation is facing today. The problems facing the nation should be a more urgent issue of a responsible government. On the contrary, an irresponsible and a selfish PM thinks of nothing other than how to outsmart his opponents in order to rule forever. The resulting effect was that Cambodia and her people are the victims of his clumsy and selfish leadership. And Cambodia remained poor and backward, even with billions of international aid. This is what happens when a small group of kleptocratic or plutocratic oligarchs misruled the country.
Courtesy of Khmerization at http://khmerization.blogspot.com/
__________________________________
“Cambodia of today has been superficially viewed in many misleading ways. On the surface, it appears to be a full functioning parliamentary democracy, with the parliament and the prime minister elected for a 5-year term. Deep down, Cambodia is nothing but governed by an oligarchy - a government run by a small kleptocratic or plutocratic group with Prime Minister Hun Sen as the head.”
_________________________________
My poor Cambodia and her subjects have been governed by clumsy rulers for many generations. One way or the other, she has been ruled and misruled by despots, incompetent and corrupt leaders or simply by a small group of kleptocratic and plutocratic oligarchs. It is this reality that Cambodia remained poor and backward for generations.
Cambodia of today has been superficially viewed in many misleading ways. On the surface, it appears to be a full functioning parliamentary democracy, with the parliament and the prime minister elected for a 5-year term. Deep down, Cambodia is nothing but governed by an oligarchy - a government run by a small kleptocratic or plutocratic group with Prime Minister Hun Sen as the head.
The sad reality is that Cambodia of today is ruled or misruled by one man. Cambodia, if analysed thoroughly, has a hallmark of a despotic one-man show with his kleptocratic or plutocratic elites as his backbones and lifelines. His kleptocratic and plutocratic oligarchs are allowed to plunder and pillage Cambodia’s natural resources and to rob the villagers’ lands at free will. And with a stroke of a one man’s pen anything is achievable.
Coming back to my discussion topic, I would like to draw an attention of the readers of this article to one recent classic example of a one man rule. Many would view or tend to believe that Dam Sith’s arrest was simply derived from a defamation law suit brought on him by Foreign Minister Hor Namhong. In my opinion, Hor Namhong’s defamation suit was just a pretext used to harass and victimise opposition politicians. Dam sith’s arrest was a case of a concerted effort by the Cambodia People Party’s (CPP) leadership, in particular Mr. Hun Sen, to get Sam Rainsy or simply to frighten him into fleeing the country. Facing with electoral defeat, the CPP and in particular PM Hun Sen, has deployed their effective weapons to kill Rainsy’s victory chances - and that is to destroy his party with coerced defections and with their intimidation tactic in order to send Rainsy into exile. But, this time, their attempt failed miserably because Rainsy was not intimidated. Realising that his tactic didn’t work, coupled with strong pressures from local and international human right groups, Mr. Hun Sen capitulated and, with a stroke of his pen, Dam Sith was set free.
The arrest of Dam Sith and his release from prison with only a stroke of a pen of a single man proved that Cambodia is a lawless state. While I applaud and appreciate the PM’s intervention for Mr. Dam Sith’s release, I also condemn with the way in which his incarceration and exoneration was handled. It was apparent that his arrest was orchestrated by Mr. Hor Namhong with Mr. Hun Sen’s blessing. The court or the poor judge was simply used as a political tool to formalise and legitimise the arrest. This was evident with Mr. Hun Sen’s intervention, when due judicial process was bypassed.
I agreed with Mr. Sam Rainsy when he said that, when a single person decides everything, a lot of time and energy was wasted. The Dam Sith saga has used up a lot of energy and has diverted a lot of attention from the more serious issues of land disputes, youth unemployment, health or economic problems that the nation is facing today. The problems facing the nation should be a more urgent issue of a responsible government. On the contrary, an irresponsible and a selfish PM thinks of nothing other than how to outsmart his opponents in order to rule forever. The resulting effect was that Cambodia and her people are the victims of his clumsy and selfish leadership. And Cambodia remained poor and backward, even with billions of international aid. This is what happens when a small group of kleptocratic or plutocratic oligarchs misruled the country.
The Cambodia Court of justice or The Hun Sen Court?
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Dam Sith (L) smells freedom yesterday leaving Phnom Penh's Prey Sar Prison, accompanied by Kuoy Bunroeun (SRP MP).Monday, 16 June 2008
Neth Pheaktra
The Mekong Times
After an arrest and detention that has provoked fierce international criticism, Dam Sith, editor-in-chief of the pro-Sam Rainsy Moneaksekar Khmer newspaper, was yesterday released from Prey Sar Prison on bail.
The release came after a personal appeal from Prime Minister Hun Sen to Phnom Penh Municipal Court President Chiv Keng.
Dam Sith, also standing as a SRP parliamentarian candidate for Phnom Penh, thanked newspapers, national and international civil society organizations, politicians, SRP leaders and Prime Minister Hun Sen for their help in securing his release.
Despite thanking Hun Sen for his intervention, Dam Sith stressed he will not change his political orientation and that Moneaksekar Khmer will continue to be pro-opposition. “I, Dam Sith, will continue to maintain my original stance,” he emphasized.
“One could say that my release is an improvement in press freedom. But for me, [the arrest] is a violation of a journalist’s rights. The arrest shows the pressure on journalists and the political sector as well,” Dam Sith told reporters upon his release.
The premier’s role in Dam Sith’s release was uncertain, with Dam Sith himself saying he had only heard of Hun Sen’s intervention over the radio.
Hun Sen said yesterday he had ordered Dam Sith to be bailed “because [I] see that Dam Sith cannot run away.” The premier underlined that Dam Sith would still face legal proceedings.
Sam Rainsy said Dam Sith’s release was “no thanks to anyone.”
“[The] arrest and release of Dam Sith is a piece of theater that should not have happened since the beginning,” he said. “[O]ur authorities are dictatorial, do not respect the law, legal procedure and constitutional law. … This means that democracy in our country is moving backwards.”
Media and civil society organizations, journalists and the Ministry of Information welcomed Dam Sith’s release.
Information Minister Khieu Kanharith, who last week requested the Phnom Penh Municipal Court release Dam Sith, could not be reached for comment. However, Thieng Vandarong, under secretary of state at the Information Ministry said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Information, we welcome the decision of the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to release Dam Sith on bail at Samdech Decho Hun Sen’s request.”
Pen Samithy, president of the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CCJ), said he was “very pleased” over Dam Sith’s release. “The CCJ continues to observe the case,” he said. “We also hope that Hor Nam Hong will withdraw his lawsuit against Dam Sith and that he will file his complaint only against Sam Rainsy.”
Local human rights group president Kek Galabru expressed concern over other cases that have not received Hun Sen’s attention. She said that Cambodia “must abide by the foundations of democracy that it has promised … the right and freedom of access to information and freedom of expression.”
Neth Pheaktra
The Mekong Times
After an arrest and detention that has provoked fierce international criticism, Dam Sith, editor-in-chief of the pro-Sam Rainsy Moneaksekar Khmer newspaper, was yesterday released from Prey Sar Prison on bail.
The release came after a personal appeal from Prime Minister Hun Sen to Phnom Penh Municipal Court President Chiv Keng.
Dam Sith, also standing as a SRP parliamentarian candidate for Phnom Penh, thanked newspapers, national and international civil society organizations, politicians, SRP leaders and Prime Minister Hun Sen for their help in securing his release.
Despite thanking Hun Sen for his intervention, Dam Sith stressed he will not change his political orientation and that Moneaksekar Khmer will continue to be pro-opposition. “I, Dam Sith, will continue to maintain my original stance,” he emphasized.
“One could say that my release is an improvement in press freedom. But for me, [the arrest] is a violation of a journalist’s rights. The arrest shows the pressure on journalists and the political sector as well,” Dam Sith told reporters upon his release.
The premier’s role in Dam Sith’s release was uncertain, with Dam Sith himself saying he had only heard of Hun Sen’s intervention over the radio.
Hun Sen said yesterday he had ordered Dam Sith to be bailed “because [I] see that Dam Sith cannot run away.” The premier underlined that Dam Sith would still face legal proceedings.
Sam Rainsy said Dam Sith’s release was “no thanks to anyone.”
“[The] arrest and release of Dam Sith is a piece of theater that should not have happened since the beginning,” he said. “[O]ur authorities are dictatorial, do not respect the law, legal procedure and constitutional law. … This means that democracy in our country is moving backwards.”
Media and civil society organizations, journalists and the Ministry of Information welcomed Dam Sith’s release.
Information Minister Khieu Kanharith, who last week requested the Phnom Penh Municipal Court release Dam Sith, could not be reached for comment. However, Thieng Vandarong, under secretary of state at the Information Ministry said: “On behalf of the Ministry of Information, we welcome the decision of the Phnom Penh Municipal Court to release Dam Sith on bail at Samdech Decho Hun Sen’s request.”
Pen Samithy, president of the Club of Cambodian Journalists (CCJ), said he was “very pleased” over Dam Sith’s release. “The CCJ continues to observe the case,” he said. “We also hope that Hor Nam Hong will withdraw his lawsuit against Dam Sith and that he will file his complaint only against Sam Rainsy.”
Local human rights group president Kek Galabru expressed concern over other cases that have not received Hun Sen’s attention. She said that Cambodia “must abide by the foundations of democracy that it has promised … the right and freedom of access to information and freedom of expression.”
END Land Grabbing in Cambodia
Asian Human Rights Commission
To sign the petition please click the link here http://campaigns.ahrchk.net/landgrabbing/
We urge you to sign the petition below. Ask your friends to join and sign the petition.
People's voices:
The petition
His ExcellencyPrime Minister, Cambodia Your Excellency,I am deeply concerned about the suffering of the hundreds of thousands of Cambodian people who have been, and who are known to live in fear of being evicted as a result of development projects, land disputes and land-grabbing. Evictees have received no just compensation. They have been forcibly evicted from their homes and lands and relocated in areas with little social amenities and economic opportunities for their livelihood. Those who solely depend on the land to make a living have simply found their livelihood destroyed.
In forced evictions, public forces have demolished their homes or set fire to them and destroyed their belongings including crops and plantations. Some evictees have been beaten or even arrested on fabricated charges to subdue resistance and force evictees to accept unjust compensation.
I urge you to immediately end the suffering and fears of those people by halting all evictions in which disputes have not been resolved or just compensation has been paid, and by suspending all land concessions for development projects that affect people’s homes and lands. I also urge you to enforce the land law and urge all parties, including your government, to resort to the due process of law for the adjudication of land disputes. All courts of law and other adjudication mechanisms should be independent, impartial and easily accessible for all, and they should judge the cause of the weak, the poor, the powerful and the rich without fear or favour.
Yours sincerely,
[fullname]
[location]
People's voices:
The petition
His ExcellencyPrime Minister, Cambodia Your Excellency,I am deeply concerned about the suffering of the hundreds of thousands of Cambodian people who have been, and who are known to live in fear of being evicted as a result of development projects, land disputes and land-grabbing. Evictees have received no just compensation. They have been forcibly evicted from their homes and lands and relocated in areas with little social amenities and economic opportunities for their livelihood. Those who solely depend on the land to make a living have simply found their livelihood destroyed.
In forced evictions, public forces have demolished their homes or set fire to them and destroyed their belongings including crops and plantations. Some evictees have been beaten or even arrested on fabricated charges to subdue resistance and force evictees to accept unjust compensation.
I urge you to immediately end the suffering and fears of those people by halting all evictions in which disputes have not been resolved or just compensation has been paid, and by suspending all land concessions for development projects that affect people’s homes and lands. I also urge you to enforce the land law and urge all parties, including your government, to resort to the due process of law for the adjudication of land disputes. All courts of law and other adjudication mechanisms should be independent, impartial and easily accessible for all, and they should judge the cause of the weak, the poor, the powerful and the rich without fear or favour.
Yours sincerely,
[fullname]
[location]
'Occupation' upsets Si Sa Ket locals
By Supalak Ganjanakhundee
The Nation
Published on June 13, 2008
Residents of northeastern Si Sa Ket province yesterday launched a campaign against Cambodians living on the outskirts of the Preah Vihear temple, which they consider Thai territory.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that only the temple belongs to Cambodia, not the area downhill, said Thiva Rungkaew, chairman of Coordinating Committee for Si Sa Ket Province Development.
"We lost the temple 46 years ago and people in Si Sa Ket province will not allow the further loss of the area downhill," Thiva said by phone from Si Sa Ket, the province adjoining the site of the temple.
A dozen people paraded in the provincial downtown to express their dissatisfaction as they had learnt that some 1,000 Cambodians had occupied the area 300 metres downhill from the fence around the temple.
They held up posters saying, "We lost Prasat Pravihan [Preah Vihear temple in Thai] in 1962 and we will not lose anything more in 2008."
The group demanded the Cambodians move their stalls and community out of the area. Thiva will call a meeting on Sunday to prepare for another protest.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Tharit Charungvat said Thailand and Cambodia have a joint boundary committee to handle the matter in accordance with a memorandum of understanding signed in 2000.
The ministry has lodged official protests with Cambodia over the building of road to the overlapping area in 2004, and the setting up of official outposts and a community in the area in 2005.
"Boundary is another issue. We should not mix it up with sovereignty over the temple and a proposal to list it as a World Heritage Site as this could make the issue more complicated," the spokesman said.
The Nation
Published on June 13, 2008
Residents of northeastern Si Sa Ket province yesterday launched a campaign against Cambodians living on the outskirts of the Preah Vihear temple, which they consider Thai territory.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that only the temple belongs to Cambodia, not the area downhill, said Thiva Rungkaew, chairman of Coordinating Committee for Si Sa Ket Province Development.
"We lost the temple 46 years ago and people in Si Sa Ket province will not allow the further loss of the area downhill," Thiva said by phone from Si Sa Ket, the province adjoining the site of the temple.
A dozen people paraded in the provincial downtown to express their dissatisfaction as they had learnt that some 1,000 Cambodians had occupied the area 300 metres downhill from the fence around the temple.
They held up posters saying, "We lost Prasat Pravihan [Preah Vihear temple in Thai] in 1962 and we will not lose anything more in 2008."
The group demanded the Cambodians move their stalls and community out of the area. Thiva will call a meeting on Sunday to prepare for another protest.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Tharit Charungvat said Thailand and Cambodia have a joint boundary committee to handle the matter in accordance with a memorandum of understanding signed in 2000.
The ministry has lodged official protests with Cambodia over the building of road to the overlapping area in 2004, and the setting up of official outposts and a community in the area in 2005.
"Boundary is another issue. We should not mix it up with sovereignty over the temple and a proposal to list it as a World Heritage Site as this could make the issue more complicated," the spokesman said.
ASIA: Civil Society Uniting Against Corruption
IPS
By Marwaan Macan-Markar
BANGKOK, Jun 16 (IPS) - Cambodian lawmakers are still to offer unanimous support for a petition aimed at combating corruption that was presented to the National Assembly in mid- May. The call was a cry from ordinary people -- over a million of them.
Leading this grassroots movement was a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) that have been fighting graft that plagues every level of this Southeast Asian nation. By May, the activists had gotten some 1.1 million signatures out of a population of 14.2 million to support a drive to bring local anti-corruption laws on par with international standards.
There was a lot of awareness raised, with many public meetings during the signature campaign, which ran from Nov. till Apr. 2008, says Aaron Bornstein, head of the Cambodia office of the Mainstreaming Anti-Corruption for Equity (MAE) Project, which is funded by the development arm of the U.S. government. "The campaign was conducted in 19 out of the country’s 20 provinces. There was urban and rural support."
"The coalition is intent on getting all political parties in the country to commit to supporting the petition before the end of the calendar year," Bornstein said during a telephone interview from Phnom Penh. "This revealed greater public awareness that even ordinary people can play a role in battling corruption. Supporters of the petition were saying, ‘enough is enough’."
As a new report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) confirms, Cambodia’s groundswell of anger against corruption at the grassroots level is also evident in other corners of Asia, where people are forced to pay bribes to get basic services such as health care, education, water and sanitation -- in addition to bribing the police and members of the judiciary.
Like in Cambodia, sections of the public have mounted innovative efforts to take on those who are abusing power. In Nepal, an anti-corruption CSO has tapped the power of community radio to "encourage anti-corruption activities," states the UNDP report, ‘Tackling Corruption, Transforming Lives - Accelerating Human Development in Asia and the Pacific’.
In the Philippines, "roadwatching" has become an anti-graft activity, where adults and schoolchildren have learnt "valuable lesson about citizens power and good governance" by paying attention to road construction, adds the 233-page report. "[This group] monitors road-building – examining the original plans then sending young people out into the field to discover what, if anything, was actually built, and if so, how well it was constructed."
"People across the Asia-Pacific region are becoming increasingly concerned about corruption, and governments are starting to react," notes the report, the first of its kind published by the U.N. agency. Hauling the rich and powerful before the courts may grab the headlines, but the poor will benefit more from efforts to eliminate corruption that plagues their everyday lives.
That message, in fact, was driven home by Transparency International (TI), a global anti-graft watchdog, last year. "The poor, whether in developing or highly industrialised countries, are the most penalised by corruption," revealed TI’s ‘Global Corruption Barometer 2007’. "About one in 10 people around the world had to pay a bribe in the past year; reported bribery has increased in some regions, such as Asia-Pacific and South East Europe."
"Corruption affects the poor most in this region; it is they who suffer because they cannot afford to pay the bribes since it eats up a large portion of their small incomes," Ramesh Gampath, co-author of the UNDP report, told IPS from Jakarta, where the publication was launched. "They have to pay bribes for services that should be their right, like health, education, water and sanitation."
The rampant scale of corruption across Asia and the Pacific -- identified by some studies as the most corrupt region in the world -- could undermine the targets set for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The latter are eight targets that government leaders have pledged to meet by 2015, including halving of poverty and extreme hunger, securing primary education for all children and reducing child mortality.
"If there is rampant corruption, the MDGs will be compromised," says Gampath.
"Corruption can occur within health services at all levels -- from grand corruption, as funds are siphoned off during the construction of new hospitals or health centres, to petty corruption as health workers demand bribes to perform their routine duties," the report reveals. "Some cross- national studies have suggested that in countries where levels of corruption are higher immunisation rates are lower and levels of child mortality are higher."
Corruption in education has its own unique features besides the obvious, such as corrupt officials siphoning off funds for school buildings, "which can increase cost between two and eight times." In many countries, the report notes, "there are irregularities in the hiring of teachers, which, in the most extreme form, results in the recruitment of ‘ghost teachers’ or even in the creating of entire ‘ghost institutions’ -- with allocated salaries and other expenses channelled into the pockets of officials."
Curbing abuse through greater local community activity has produced some results in Indonesia -- notorious for being among the most corrupt countries in Asia. "There has been a shift in public perception since 2004, where people perceive that they have a role to play in fighting corruption," says Rezki Sri Wibowo, deputy secretary-general of TI’s Indonesia chapter. "A strong anti-corruption has emerged in Aceh to monitor reconstruction after the tsunami [in December 2004]… Civil society groups and the public are monitoring the procurement process much more now than before," he added during a telephone interview from Jakarta. "The government’s decision to revitalise the national counter-corruption commission has also helped."
Send your comments to the editor
By Marwaan Macan-Markar
BANGKOK, Jun 16 (IPS) - Cambodian lawmakers are still to offer unanimous support for a petition aimed at combating corruption that was presented to the National Assembly in mid- May. The call was a cry from ordinary people -- over a million of them.
Leading this grassroots movement was a coalition of civil society organisations (CSOs) that have been fighting graft that plagues every level of this Southeast Asian nation. By May, the activists had gotten some 1.1 million signatures out of a population of 14.2 million to support a drive to bring local anti-corruption laws on par with international standards.
There was a lot of awareness raised, with many public meetings during the signature campaign, which ran from Nov. till Apr. 2008, says Aaron Bornstein, head of the Cambodia office of the Mainstreaming Anti-Corruption for Equity (MAE) Project, which is funded by the development arm of the U.S. government. "The campaign was conducted in 19 out of the country’s 20 provinces. There was urban and rural support."
"The coalition is intent on getting all political parties in the country to commit to supporting the petition before the end of the calendar year," Bornstein said during a telephone interview from Phnom Penh. "This revealed greater public awareness that even ordinary people can play a role in battling corruption. Supporters of the petition were saying, ‘enough is enough’."
As a new report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) confirms, Cambodia’s groundswell of anger against corruption at the grassroots level is also evident in other corners of Asia, where people are forced to pay bribes to get basic services such as health care, education, water and sanitation -- in addition to bribing the police and members of the judiciary.
Like in Cambodia, sections of the public have mounted innovative efforts to take on those who are abusing power. In Nepal, an anti-corruption CSO has tapped the power of community radio to "encourage anti-corruption activities," states the UNDP report, ‘Tackling Corruption, Transforming Lives - Accelerating Human Development in Asia and the Pacific’.
In the Philippines, "roadwatching" has become an anti-graft activity, where adults and schoolchildren have learnt "valuable lesson about citizens power and good governance" by paying attention to road construction, adds the 233-page report. "[This group] monitors road-building – examining the original plans then sending young people out into the field to discover what, if anything, was actually built, and if so, how well it was constructed."
"People across the Asia-Pacific region are becoming increasingly concerned about corruption, and governments are starting to react," notes the report, the first of its kind published by the U.N. agency. Hauling the rich and powerful before the courts may grab the headlines, but the poor will benefit more from efforts to eliminate corruption that plagues their everyday lives.
That message, in fact, was driven home by Transparency International (TI), a global anti-graft watchdog, last year. "The poor, whether in developing or highly industrialised countries, are the most penalised by corruption," revealed TI’s ‘Global Corruption Barometer 2007’. "About one in 10 people around the world had to pay a bribe in the past year; reported bribery has increased in some regions, such as Asia-Pacific and South East Europe."
"Corruption affects the poor most in this region; it is they who suffer because they cannot afford to pay the bribes since it eats up a large portion of their small incomes," Ramesh Gampath, co-author of the UNDP report, told IPS from Jakarta, where the publication was launched. "They have to pay bribes for services that should be their right, like health, education, water and sanitation."
The rampant scale of corruption across Asia and the Pacific -- identified by some studies as the most corrupt region in the world -- could undermine the targets set for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The latter are eight targets that government leaders have pledged to meet by 2015, including halving of poverty and extreme hunger, securing primary education for all children and reducing child mortality.
"If there is rampant corruption, the MDGs will be compromised," says Gampath.
"Corruption can occur within health services at all levels -- from grand corruption, as funds are siphoned off during the construction of new hospitals or health centres, to petty corruption as health workers demand bribes to perform their routine duties," the report reveals. "Some cross- national studies have suggested that in countries where levels of corruption are higher immunisation rates are lower and levels of child mortality are higher."
Corruption in education has its own unique features besides the obvious, such as corrupt officials siphoning off funds for school buildings, "which can increase cost between two and eight times." In many countries, the report notes, "there are irregularities in the hiring of teachers, which, in the most extreme form, results in the recruitment of ‘ghost teachers’ or even in the creating of entire ‘ghost institutions’ -- with allocated salaries and other expenses channelled into the pockets of officials."
Curbing abuse through greater local community activity has produced some results in Indonesia -- notorious for being among the most corrupt countries in Asia. "There has been a shift in public perception since 2004, where people perceive that they have a role to play in fighting corruption," says Rezki Sri Wibowo, deputy secretary-general of TI’s Indonesia chapter. "A strong anti-corruption has emerged in Aceh to monitor reconstruction after the tsunami [in December 2004]… Civil society groups and the public are monitoring the procurement process much more now than before," he added during a telephone interview from Jakarta. "The government’s decision to revitalise the national counter-corruption commission has also helped."
Cambodia: As You Were At The Top
Goal.com16/06/2008
draw by Preah Khan Reach FC while Kirivong FC threw everything they had before they could steal the one point off a 3-3 draw against National Defense Ministry.
National Defense Ministry were in superb form despite playing away where they were quick to romp to a 3-1 lead at the break.
To Van Thann (19th minute), Sok Pheng (29th) and Khim Bory (44th) were all on target for National Defense as Kirivong Sok Sen Chey replied with their only goal in the first half from O.J.Chukwuma in the 40th minute.
But National Defense concession of Chukwuma¡¦s second goal just two minutes after the restart would prove pivotal as Kirivong grew in confidence to slam home their well-deserved equaliser off LY Ravy in the 57th minute for both teams to share the spoils.
www.aseanfootball.org
Locals want vendors off temple steps
The Bangkok Post
Monday June 16, 2008
PREAH VIHEAR
SANOH WORARAK
SI SA KET : Local people are demanding the eviction of Cambodian souvenir vendors from the stairway leading to the ancient ruins of Preah Vihear temple.
Sanong Huaychan, chief of Kantharalak district which borders the temple, said the Cambodian vendors' stalls are on both sides of the stairway leading up to the ruins. Although the temple is on Cambodian territory, the steps begin in Thailand.
Local people will press the authorities to drive the vendors out, he said.
The eviction issue was raised at a meeting in Si Sa Ket yesterday attended by local officials, historians and senior monks. The forum was entitled ''Preah Vihear becoming a World Heritage Site: What's in it for Si Sa Ket?''
The meeting was told that Thais built the souvenir kiosks, but they were taken over by Cambodians after Preah Vihear was given to Cambodia by a World Court ruling in 1962.
Some of the forum participants insisted a local movement was needed to safeguard ''national treasures''.
Speakers rebuked Foreign Affairs Minister Noppadon Pattama for saying that some people were going overboard with their nationalistic bravado.
The minister said he did not want ill-intentioned people derailing ''this smooth-running train'', a reference to the ongoing Thai-Cambodian negotiations over the demarcation of Preah Vihear.
In the map to be used for the listing of the ancient ruins as a World Heritage Site, the border line at Bandai Naga (Naga-lined stairways), the entrance to the Hindu temple in Si Sa Ket province, apparently encroaches upon Thai territory by about 10 metres.
Speakers at the forum heatedly discounted Mr Noppadon's statement that the Cambodian vendors have been selling souvenirs at their present site from the beginning.
The National Security Council (NSC) will meet today to examine Cambodia's map of Preah Vihear, which Phnom Penh hopes to use for the World Heritage application. The NSC will decide if the map should be rejected.
Monday June 16, 2008
PREAH VIHEAR
SANOH WORARAK
SI SA KET : Local people are demanding the eviction of Cambodian souvenir vendors from the stairway leading to the ancient ruins of Preah Vihear temple.
Sanong Huaychan, chief of Kantharalak district which borders the temple, said the Cambodian vendors' stalls are on both sides of the stairway leading up to the ruins. Although the temple is on Cambodian territory, the steps begin in Thailand.
Local people will press the authorities to drive the vendors out, he said.
The eviction issue was raised at a meeting in Si Sa Ket yesterday attended by local officials, historians and senior monks. The forum was entitled ''Preah Vihear becoming a World Heritage Site: What's in it for Si Sa Ket?''
The meeting was told that Thais built the souvenir kiosks, but they were taken over by Cambodians after Preah Vihear was given to Cambodia by a World Court ruling in 1962.
Some of the forum participants insisted a local movement was needed to safeguard ''national treasures''.
Speakers rebuked Foreign Affairs Minister Noppadon Pattama for saying that some people were going overboard with their nationalistic bravado.
The minister said he did not want ill-intentioned people derailing ''this smooth-running train'', a reference to the ongoing Thai-Cambodian negotiations over the demarcation of Preah Vihear.
In the map to be used for the listing of the ancient ruins as a World Heritage Site, the border line at Bandai Naga (Naga-lined stairways), the entrance to the Hindu temple in Si Sa Ket province, apparently encroaches upon Thai territory by about 10 metres.
Speakers at the forum heatedly discounted Mr Noppadon's statement that the Cambodian vendors have been selling souvenirs at their present site from the beginning.
The National Security Council (NSC) will meet today to examine Cambodia's map of Preah Vihear, which Phnom Penh hopes to use for the World Heritage application. The NSC will decide if the map should be rejected.
Day in Picture
Along the road some local khmers lying on their motorcycle taxis with their legs up"U wanna ride a tuc-tuc?
Adventurers drawn to the beauty of Cambodia
Angkor Wat (above right) provides a stunning sight with its detail and beauty.ShanghaiDaily.com
By Jenny Hammond
2008-6-16
AFTER decades of unrest, Cambodia is coming into its own as a destination for travelers eager to embrace architecture, adventure and smiles, writes Jenny Hammond.
Compared with its high profile neighbors, wartorn Vietnam and the idyllic paradise of Thailand, Cambodia tends to fly under the radar. But that does not mean this fascinating country has any less to offer.
After three decades of war, Cambodia is now at peace and attracting more and more tourists with the promise of Indiana Jones- or Tomb Raider-type adventures.
Undoubtedly Cambodia is a beautiful country, quite different from its neighbors.
For starters there are vast expanses of bright red earth house communities where the homes are built on stilts to protect residents from floods in the rainy season and the odd rogue snake, while at the same time providing shelter for livestock below.
The view feels more like something out of Africa than Asia with mango trees nestled along the sides of bumpy roads where smiling locals sell juicy slices of pineapples to weary passers-by.
Cambodia was ravaged during the war years and still has the highest number of unexploded land mines in the world. But with a vast expanse of magnificent horizons and some of the world's most breathtaking man-made structures, the horrific past is being replaced by the wonder of the country's rich cultural heritage.
The biggest attractions on the tourist trail are the temples of Angkor which are among the most incredible structures on Earth in spite of thousands of years of wear and tear and, more recently, clumsy tourist feet.
Situated near the sleepy town of Siem Reap, the temples were only rediscovered by the Western world in the 1860s although they still housed a wealthy working monastery.
The discovery generated a great deal of international interest in Cambodia, with well-known explorers swooping on the country to document their travels throughout the area. But in the last part of the last century, visiting Cambodia became difficult as the country was forced into conflict with neighbors.
With Cambodia and its relics now safe to visit following its recent past, tourism is becoming a booming industry.
And most are heading straight for Angkor. The temples of Angkor, capital of Cambodia's ancient Khmer empire, rival each other in size, detail and beauty, but Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, stands proud near the center of them all.
Angkor Wat is the best example today of man's devotions to the gods through its sheer size and intricate carvings. More than 3,000 individually carved "heavenly nymphs" adorn the structure while the high turrets of the temple all point west leading many to believe the monument was built as a tomb - the west symbolically points towards death.
A note to remember for visiting this temple is that it is lit at night between 7:30pm and 9pm so a visit at this time allows a brief escape from both the heat and the distracting tour bus crowds.
But in spite of Angkor Wat's size, it is by no means the best of the many monuments spreading throughout a thick forest.
Heading north from Siem Reap, you first come across Angkor Wat, then the walled city of Angkor Thom where stone faces of tranquil Buddhas stare serenely into the thick jungle.
To the east of the city is the mesmerizing temple of Ta Prohm intertwined in a jungle wilderness and Banteay Kdei that offers intricate stone carvings.
Restorations are underway in many of the structures, but the beauty of Ta Prohm is embellished by the way nature has reclaimed the temple with massive trees winding around the structure, breaking up walls as if they were made of sand.
Like a giant octopus enveloping the temple, the tree trunks and roots - often more than 30 centimeters wide - wind through the crevices while birds chatter noisily in the tree tops above.
With temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, young local children run to tourists touting cold refreshments as well as a myriad of craft items such as flutes, bags, postcards and books.
While many parents have been lost in conflicts, maimed by land mines or even killed by poisonous snakes, the children still welcome visitors with wide smiles and fluent English greetings.
After the architecture, the hospitality in Cambodia is the most notable aspect of a visit there, as locals are quick to wave happily at foreign faces - making it a top destination for anyone seeking culture, beauty, kindness and an incredible adventure.
By Jenny Hammond
2008-6-16
AFTER decades of unrest, Cambodia is coming into its own as a destination for travelers eager to embrace architecture, adventure and smiles, writes Jenny Hammond.
Compared with its high profile neighbors, wartorn Vietnam and the idyllic paradise of Thailand, Cambodia tends to fly under the radar. But that does not mean this fascinating country has any less to offer.
After three decades of war, Cambodia is now at peace and attracting more and more tourists with the promise of Indiana Jones- or Tomb Raider-type adventures.
Undoubtedly Cambodia is a beautiful country, quite different from its neighbors.
For starters there are vast expanses of bright red earth house communities where the homes are built on stilts to protect residents from floods in the rainy season and the odd rogue snake, while at the same time providing shelter for livestock below.
The view feels more like something out of Africa than Asia with mango trees nestled along the sides of bumpy roads where smiling locals sell juicy slices of pineapples to weary passers-by.
Cambodia was ravaged during the war years and still has the highest number of unexploded land mines in the world. But with a vast expanse of magnificent horizons and some of the world's most breathtaking man-made structures, the horrific past is being replaced by the wonder of the country's rich cultural heritage.
The biggest attractions on the tourist trail are the temples of Angkor which are among the most incredible structures on Earth in spite of thousands of years of wear and tear and, more recently, clumsy tourist feet.
Situated near the sleepy town of Siem Reap, the temples were only rediscovered by the Western world in the 1860s although they still housed a wealthy working monastery.
The discovery generated a great deal of international interest in Cambodia, with well-known explorers swooping on the country to document their travels throughout the area. But in the last part of the last century, visiting Cambodia became difficult as the country was forced into conflict with neighbors.
With Cambodia and its relics now safe to visit following its recent past, tourism is becoming a booming industry.
And most are heading straight for Angkor. The temples of Angkor, capital of Cambodia's ancient Khmer empire, rival each other in size, detail and beauty, but Angkor Wat, the largest religious structure in the world, stands proud near the center of them all.
Angkor Wat is the best example today of man's devotions to the gods through its sheer size and intricate carvings. More than 3,000 individually carved "heavenly nymphs" adorn the structure while the high turrets of the temple all point west leading many to believe the monument was built as a tomb - the west symbolically points towards death.
A note to remember for visiting this temple is that it is lit at night between 7:30pm and 9pm so a visit at this time allows a brief escape from both the heat and the distracting tour bus crowds.
But in spite of Angkor Wat's size, it is by no means the best of the many monuments spreading throughout a thick forest.
Heading north from Siem Reap, you first come across Angkor Wat, then the walled city of Angkor Thom where stone faces of tranquil Buddhas stare serenely into the thick jungle.
To the east of the city is the mesmerizing temple of Ta Prohm intertwined in a jungle wilderness and Banteay Kdei that offers intricate stone carvings.
Restorations are underway in many of the structures, but the beauty of Ta Prohm is embellished by the way nature has reclaimed the temple with massive trees winding around the structure, breaking up walls as if they were made of sand.
Like a giant octopus enveloping the temple, the tree trunks and roots - often more than 30 centimeters wide - wind through the crevices while birds chatter noisily in the tree tops above.
With temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, young local children run to tourists touting cold refreshments as well as a myriad of craft items such as flutes, bags, postcards and books.
While many parents have been lost in conflicts, maimed by land mines or even killed by poisonous snakes, the children still welcome visitors with wide smiles and fluent English greetings.
After the architecture, the hospitality in Cambodia is the most notable aspect of a visit there, as locals are quick to wave happily at foreign faces - making it a top destination for anyone seeking culture, beauty, kindness and an incredible adventure.
Cambodian PM says troops on standby for UN peacekeeping missions
www.chinaview.cn
2008-06-15
PHNOM PENH, June 15 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said here on Sunday that Cambodia has stand-by troops for U.N. peacekeeping missions.
"Cambodia has stand-by troops for U.N. peacekeeping missions. When U.N. needs necessary forces, we will send them off. However, we won't send them to fighting countries," said the Prime Minister while attending a bridge ground-breaking ceremony.
The troops were well trained and equipped with high-quality materials, he added.
Prak Sokhon, chairman of the Cambodian Committee for Sending Troops to U.N. Peacekeeping Missions, told reporters earlier that at least 340 Cambodian officers and soldiers are now reserved for U.N. peacekeeping missions.
Cambodia has sent three batches of peacekeepers to Sudan under the U.N. umbrella in the past three years.
Cambodia has also participated in two international military exercises held in Mongolia and Bangladesh respectively.
Editor: Yan Liang
PHNOM PENH, June 15 (Xinhua) -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen said here on Sunday that Cambodia has stand-by troops for U.N. peacekeeping missions.
"Cambodia has stand-by troops for U.N. peacekeeping missions. When U.N. needs necessary forces, we will send them off. However, we won't send them to fighting countries," said the Prime Minister while attending a bridge ground-breaking ceremony.
The troops were well trained and equipped with high-quality materials, he added.
Prak Sokhon, chairman of the Cambodian Committee for Sending Troops to U.N. Peacekeeping Missions, told reporters earlier that at least 340 Cambodian officers and soldiers are now reserved for U.N. peacekeeping missions.
Cambodia has sent three batches of peacekeepers to Sudan under the U.N. umbrella in the past three years.
Cambodia has also participated in two international military exercises held in Mongolia and Bangladesh respectively.
Editor: Yan Liang
Cambodians mark anniversary of court awarding border temple
The Earth Times
Sun, 15 Jun 2008
Author : DPA
Phnom Penh - More than 400 Cambodians gathered near the sacred site of Wat Phnom in the capital Sunday to celebrate the anniversary of the International Court in The Hague awarding a disputed border temple to Cambodia over Thailand. It was the first time the 1962 decision to award Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia has been marked and comes after bitter renewed wrangling between the two nations as Cambodia attempts to have the temple recognized as a World Heritage site.
Cambodia has rejected requests by Thailand to jointly manage the site and Thailand in turn has disputed border territory around the temple.
The head of the organizing committee for the rally, Moeung Son, made a speech praising the International Court's decision.
"Thanks to the International Court for its verdict which gave Preah Vihear temple back to the Khmer people," he said.
No dignitaries attended the rally, but it had received the support of King Norodom Sihamoni in a letter last week.
Sun, 15 Jun 2008
Author : DPA
Phnom Penh - More than 400 Cambodians gathered near the sacred site of Wat Phnom in the capital Sunday to celebrate the anniversary of the International Court in The Hague awarding a disputed border temple to Cambodia over Thailand. It was the first time the 1962 decision to award Preah Vihear temple to Cambodia has been marked and comes after bitter renewed wrangling between the two nations as Cambodia attempts to have the temple recognized as a World Heritage site.
Cambodia has rejected requests by Thailand to jointly manage the site and Thailand in turn has disputed border territory around the temple.
The head of the organizing committee for the rally, Moeung Son, made a speech praising the International Court's decision.
"Thanks to the International Court for its verdict which gave Preah Vihear temple back to the Khmer people," he said.
No dignitaries attended the rally, but it had received the support of King Norodom Sihamoni in a letter last week.
Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Association holds national congress
15/06/2008
VietNamNet Bridge - The Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Association (VCFA) re-elected Vu Mao as President for the 2008-2013 period at its 3 rd National Congress in Hanoi on June 14.
Addressing the event, President of the association Vu Mao, stressed the important strategic relations between Vietnam and Cambodia , saying that bilateral relations are seeing positive developments on the basis of mutual benefits, traditional friendly neighbourliness and comprehensive cooperation.
Over the past five years, the VCFA has actively and creatively renewed its activities, improving the people-to-people diplomatic work, strengthening the traditional friendship and solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia .
The congress defined the VCFA’s focal tasks in the 3 rd term, namely to promote the education on the two countries’ traditional friendship, solidarity and comprehensive cooperation, attach importance to economic, trade, scientific and technical cooperation; continue to develop the organisation, improving the quality of its activities and strengthening its leadership.
The VCFA will create opportunities for former Vietnamese experts and volunteer soldiers to visit their former combatant fields in Cambodia , and organise exchange meetings for students and business clubs of the two countries.
Cambodian Ambassador to Vietnam Vann Phal highly appreciated the traditional friendship, solidarity and fine cooperation in the spirit of “good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, and long-tern, durable and comprehensive cooperation” between the two countries.
The congress also passed its revised charter and elected a new 39-member executive committee.
(Source: VNA)
VietNamNet Bridge - The Vietnam-Cambodia Friendship Association (VCFA) re-elected Vu Mao as President for the 2008-2013 period at its 3 rd National Congress in Hanoi on June 14.
Addressing the event, President of the association Vu Mao, stressed the important strategic relations between Vietnam and Cambodia , saying that bilateral relations are seeing positive developments on the basis of mutual benefits, traditional friendly neighbourliness and comprehensive cooperation.
Over the past five years, the VCFA has actively and creatively renewed its activities, improving the people-to-people diplomatic work, strengthening the traditional friendship and solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Cambodia .
The congress defined the VCFA’s focal tasks in the 3 rd term, namely to promote the education on the two countries’ traditional friendship, solidarity and comprehensive cooperation, attach importance to economic, trade, scientific and technical cooperation; continue to develop the organisation, improving the quality of its activities and strengthening its leadership.
The VCFA will create opportunities for former Vietnamese experts and volunteer soldiers to visit their former combatant fields in Cambodia , and organise exchange meetings for students and business clubs of the two countries.
Cambodian Ambassador to Vietnam Vann Phal highly appreciated the traditional friendship, solidarity and fine cooperation in the spirit of “good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, and long-tern, durable and comprehensive cooperation” between the two countries.
The congress also passed its revised charter and elected a new 39-member executive committee.
(Source: VNA)
Democrat calls for FM to reveal Cambodia's new map
Sun, June 15, 2008
The Nation
The Democrat party called on the Foreign Ministry on Sunday to reveal the new border lines for Preah Vihear Temple proposed by Cambodia in its bid to list the temple as a Unesco World Heritage site. Deputy party leader Alongkorn Polabutr expressed concern the ministry appeared to be withholding details of the Cambodian proposal.
Phnom Penh's bid to make Preah Vihear Temple a protected site reached a stalemate last year when Bangkok objected to a map attached to the proposal.
Bangkok said it included overlapping zones between both countries and they had to be demarcated first.
Several rounds of negotiations followed and Cambodia agreed to propose a new map which Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said did not include the overlapping areas.
He doubted the government would compromise on the issue that could benefit former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was reportedly keen about investing in Koh Kong province in Cambodia.
Alongkorn said the ministry should make the issue transparent by showing details of the map to the public before Unesco considers the Cambodian proposal between July 2 and 10.
The Cabinet is scheduled to endorse Cambodia's new map next week, enabling Phnom Penh to submit its proposal to Unesco.
Thailand and Cambodia claimed ownership of the temple until the World Court ruled in favour of Cambodia in 1962.
Alongkorn said yesterday was the 46th anniversary of that ruling.
It should be noted the World Court ruled that only the temple, not the areas around it, belonged to Cambodia, he said.
A seminar on the controversy was conducted in Si Sa Ket province yesterday, where many panellists expressed doubts on the Thai government's expected admission of Cambodia's new map.
Last week, some residents in Si Sa Ket called for the removal of Cambodian communities from overlapping areas.
The Nation
The Democrat party called on the Foreign Ministry on Sunday to reveal the new border lines for Preah Vihear Temple proposed by Cambodia in its bid to list the temple as a Unesco World Heritage site. Deputy party leader Alongkorn Polabutr expressed concern the ministry appeared to be withholding details of the Cambodian proposal.
Phnom Penh's bid to make Preah Vihear Temple a protected site reached a stalemate last year when Bangkok objected to a map attached to the proposal.
Bangkok said it included overlapping zones between both countries and they had to be demarcated first.
Several rounds of negotiations followed and Cambodia agreed to propose a new map which Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said did not include the overlapping areas.
He doubted the government would compromise on the issue that could benefit former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra who was reportedly keen about investing in Koh Kong province in Cambodia.
Alongkorn said the ministry should make the issue transparent by showing details of the map to the public before Unesco considers the Cambodian proposal between July 2 and 10.
The Cabinet is scheduled to endorse Cambodia's new map next week, enabling Phnom Penh to submit its proposal to Unesco.
Thailand and Cambodia claimed ownership of the temple until the World Court ruled in favour of Cambodia in 1962.
Alongkorn said yesterday was the 46th anniversary of that ruling.
It should be noted the World Court ruled that only the temple, not the areas around it, belonged to Cambodia, he said.
A seminar on the controversy was conducted in Si Sa Ket province yesterday, where many panellists expressed doubts on the Thai government's expected admission of Cambodia's new map.
Last week, some residents in Si Sa Ket called for the removal of Cambodian communities from overlapping areas.
Crocodile mauls Cambodian teen
The Earth Times
Sun, 15 Jun 2008
Author : DPA
Phnom Penh - A Cambodian teen who tried to capture an escaped crocodile to sell for money found himself hospitalized with 25 stitches and lucky to be alive, police said Sunday. Chea Hak, 16, a school student, tried to capture the animal after he saw it in a local pond when his mother sent him to wash dishes, police in central Kampong Chhnang district said.
The reptile mauled the boy's left thigh and right hand badly before friends could pull him free.
It was the second reported crocodile attack in a week. A student in Siem Reap province, 400 kilometres north of the capital, is still missing after being last seen taking a short cut to school through a crocodile farm.
Police said the Kampong Chhnang crocodile, thought to have escaped a local crocodile farm, was still free and enjoying pond life because local entrepreneurs hesitated to tangle with it again.
Sun, 15 Jun 2008
Author : DPA
Phnom Penh - A Cambodian teen who tried to capture an escaped crocodile to sell for money found himself hospitalized with 25 stitches and lucky to be alive, police said Sunday. Chea Hak, 16, a school student, tried to capture the animal after he saw it in a local pond when his mother sent him to wash dishes, police in central Kampong Chhnang district said.
The reptile mauled the boy's left thigh and right hand badly before friends could pull him free.
It was the second reported crocodile attack in a week. A student in Siem Reap province, 400 kilometres north of the capital, is still missing after being last seen taking a short cut to school through a crocodile farm.
Police said the Kampong Chhnang crocodile, thought to have escaped a local crocodile farm, was still free and enjoying pond life because local entrepreneurs hesitated to tangle with it again.
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Day in Pictures
Cambodian dancers perform a traditional dancing to celebrate the 46th anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)'s 1962 ruling that Preah Vihear temple belongs to Cambodia rather than Thailand, which organized by Khmer Civilization Foundation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Sunday, June 15, 2008.(AP Photo/Heng Sinith) 
Cambodian dancers perform a traditional dancing to celebrate the 46th anniversary of the International Court of Justice (ICJ)'s 1962 ruling that Preah Vihear temple belongs to Cambodia rather than Thailand, which organized by Khmer Civilization Foundation in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Sunday, June 15, 2008.(AP Photo/Heng Sinith) 
‘Best kept secret’
June 15, 2008
By Julianna Parker
Transcript Staff Writer
Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast has built a small but faithful clientele since it opened in 1999. The restaurant and lounge followed in 2002.
Now owner Rany Kchao is expanding to wine. He’s planted a five-acre vineyard and hopes to begin making wine with next year’s harvest.
But Kchao doesn’t come from a wine-making tradition.
“Cambodia don’t have no grapes, but … the landscape of the grape always take(s) my soul,” he said.
Kchao was born and raised in Cambodia, but fled the country during communist rule and eventually immigrated to the U.S. in 1982. He calls Jan. 7, 1982, his birthday, because that’s when he started his new life.
Kchao came to the U.S. with only $300 and worked in food service washing dishes and sweeping floors, but he said he never regretted his choice to come to America.
“Just to be born in the place called the United States is just a blessing; Don’t ask for anything more,” Kchao said.
He’s grateful for the opportunities he’s had in the U.S., marveling at the place he’s at now, owning his own business.
“If you can’t make it in the U.S., you can’t make it nowheres,” he said.
Kchao has kept that gratitude his whole life, along his tough work ethic. He and his wife, Terry, bought Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast, 7820 E. Highway 9, after its previous owner had given it up, Kchao said. The couple, along with their son David and daughter Molida, cleared the land, added a pond and gazebo for weddings and added a fine dining restaurant. The chef at the restaurant is Rany’s sister-in-law, Chinda Kchao.
Kchao said he wants Whispering Pines to be a retreat for city-dwellers.
“You can’t find a place like this — Norman’s going to be filled with concrete,” he said.
Seven rooms are available at the bed and breakfast. Although it’s only a few minutes from the city, it feels like the country — but a well-manicured version.
The word has spread about Whispering Pines.
Norman resident Leonard Lang found out about the Whispering Pines restaurant by word of mouth, and now goes with his wife several times a year for special occasions.
“In the metro area of Norman, I guess you could say it’s the finest cuisine you can find — and the atmosphere.” he said.
The restaurant is made up of smaller, more intimate rooms with a fireplace. The waiter, David Kchao, is always attentive, Lang said.
“He is a remarkable gentleman, he is professional to no end,” Lang said.
Lori O’Brien, who lives near Whispering Pines off SH 9, also said she enjoys the quality of service at the restaurant.
She celebrated her birthday at the restaurant last week, and the Kchaos kept the restaurant open even though O’Brien and her husband were the only customers.
O’Brien said she loves the food and the elegant presentation, adding that she’s traveled a lot and this restaurant is world-class.
“I have yet to have anything there that I did not like,” she said.
O’Brien recommends the restaurant to everyone. She also said she knows people who have stayed in the bed and breakfast and had equally wonderful experiences.
“I really honestly believe that Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast and restaurant there is Norman’s best kept secret.”
Julianna Parker
366-3541
jparker@normantranscript.com
By Julianna Parker
Transcript Staff Writer
Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast has built a small but faithful clientele since it opened in 1999. The restaurant and lounge followed in 2002.
Now owner Rany Kchao is expanding to wine. He’s planted a five-acre vineyard and hopes to begin making wine with next year’s harvest.
But Kchao doesn’t come from a wine-making tradition.
“Cambodia don’t have no grapes, but … the landscape of the grape always take(s) my soul,” he said.
Kchao was born and raised in Cambodia, but fled the country during communist rule and eventually immigrated to the U.S. in 1982. He calls Jan. 7, 1982, his birthday, because that’s when he started his new life.
Kchao came to the U.S. with only $300 and worked in food service washing dishes and sweeping floors, but he said he never regretted his choice to come to America.
“Just to be born in the place called the United States is just a blessing; Don’t ask for anything more,” Kchao said.
He’s grateful for the opportunities he’s had in the U.S., marveling at the place he’s at now, owning his own business.
“If you can’t make it in the U.S., you can’t make it nowheres,” he said.
Kchao has kept that gratitude his whole life, along his tough work ethic. He and his wife, Terry, bought Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast, 7820 E. Highway 9, after its previous owner had given it up, Kchao said. The couple, along with their son David and daughter Molida, cleared the land, added a pond and gazebo for weddings and added a fine dining restaurant. The chef at the restaurant is Rany’s sister-in-law, Chinda Kchao.
Kchao said he wants Whispering Pines to be a retreat for city-dwellers.
“You can’t find a place like this — Norman’s going to be filled with concrete,” he said.
Seven rooms are available at the bed and breakfast. Although it’s only a few minutes from the city, it feels like the country — but a well-manicured version.
The word has spread about Whispering Pines.
Norman resident Leonard Lang found out about the Whispering Pines restaurant by word of mouth, and now goes with his wife several times a year for special occasions.
“In the metro area of Norman, I guess you could say it’s the finest cuisine you can find — and the atmosphere.” he said.
The restaurant is made up of smaller, more intimate rooms with a fireplace. The waiter, David Kchao, is always attentive, Lang said.
“He is a remarkable gentleman, he is professional to no end,” Lang said.
Lori O’Brien, who lives near Whispering Pines off SH 9, also said she enjoys the quality of service at the restaurant.
She celebrated her birthday at the restaurant last week, and the Kchaos kept the restaurant open even though O’Brien and her husband were the only customers.
O’Brien said she loves the food and the elegant presentation, adding that she’s traveled a lot and this restaurant is world-class.
“I have yet to have anything there that I did not like,” she said.
O’Brien recommends the restaurant to everyone. She also said she knows people who have stayed in the bed and breakfast and had equally wonderful experiences.
“I really honestly believe that Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast and restaurant there is Norman’s best kept secret.”
Julianna Parker
366-3541
jparker@normantranscript.com
A voice for witnesses of horrors
"It's not just other people's history. It's our own history, as well, because these people ... live right here among us," Steve High says.Photograph by : ALLEN MCINNIS THE GAZETTESunday, June 15, 2008
JEFF HEINRICH, The Gazette
Thousands of survivors of genocide live in Montreal: among them, elderly Jews who lived through the Holocaust in Europe, Africans who escaped the Rwandan genocide of 1994 and Cambodians who fled the Khmer Rouge genocide of the late 1970s.
Now, in an ambitious oral-history project, a Concordia University research team is starting to interview more than 500 of these survivors, as well as people who escaped deadly political violence in Haiti since the 1960s.
Thirty-eight researchers and community-group volunteers are recording people's experiences on digital video or audio in their own homes and archiving them for future use. Refugee youths will also be interviewed, theatre workshops will be formed based on testimonies, and genocide victims will eventually give guest lectures in high schools and CEGEP.
"It's hard to imagine a more important area of research than genocide and war and traumatic memory - these are profoundly important parts of the human experience," said Steve High, an oral historian who holds Concordia's Canada Research Chair in Public History.
"It's not just other people's history. It's our own history, as well, because these people don't just live someplace far off - they live right here among us." Backed by a $1.5-million federal grant, the project is called Life Stories of Montrealers Displaced by War, Genocide and Other Human-Rights Violations.
Today, High and other project leaders and participants will hold an annual meeting to plot the next four years of their research for this project. The interviews will be catalogued in a database, and might eventually be accessible to the public online.
"This project gives voice to those who escaped genocide, wherever it happened in the world," said Callixte Kabayiza, 57, president of the Association of Parents and Friends of Genocide Victims in Rwanda, known as PAGE-Rwanda.
"Scholars usually do research on people, not with them," said Kabayiza, who arrived in Quebec at the height of his country's genocide. "That's what makes this project different. It's giving people a chance to write their own stories, through the means of the extended interview. That's the power of oral history." Typically, interviewees will spend between two and five hours altogether recounting their stories, long enough for the the account to be deep and as full as possible, the researchers believe.
"It's a real chance for everyone to talk from the bottom of their hearts about something many have never talked about," said Savary Chhem-Kieth, 54, president of the Communauté angkorienne du Canada, a Montreal-based Cambodian association.
"A lot of people have been so busy making a living here, learning a new language, simply surviving, that they haven't had the opportunity to really talk about the past and what brought them here," said Chhem-Kieth, who escaped the Khmer atrocities by living abroad as a student.
For the project, some 150 Holocaust survivors will be interviewed, along with 200 people from Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as 150 Cambodians and 50 Haitians.
Among them, researchers expect to find not only victims, but perpetrators, too. But the aim of the project isn't to expose anyone. That's why anyone who wants to can ask for anonymity, and have their names changed in the research archives that will eventually be made available to the public.
"We're not going on a hunt for anyone," Chhem-Kieth cautioned. "That's not the point of the exercise. We're all victims, in a way, so it would be pointless." Same goes for refugees whose stories might not jibe with accounts they gave when they asked for status in Canada - they, too, won't be challenged.
"It's not about getting at the truth - it's about getting at people's own truth," High said. "Interviews aren't an objective source of information." The intercultural approach to learning about genocide is a natural one, Kabayiza said, because in Quebec, different groups have similar histories. Rwandans, for example, are very interested in how Jews have organized the memory of their tragedy, especially at the Holocaust Memorial Centre.
"The evil of genocide is universal," he said. "Each of us has lived it in own own way, of course, but we can share some of that unfortunate history in a spirit of peace and mutual understanding." For more information on Life Stories, contact Luis Van Isschot at 514-848-2424, Local 7920, or cura@alcor.concordia.ca jheinrich@ thegazette.canwest.com
JEFF HEINRICH, The Gazette
Thousands of survivors of genocide live in Montreal: among them, elderly Jews who lived through the Holocaust in Europe, Africans who escaped the Rwandan genocide of 1994 and Cambodians who fled the Khmer Rouge genocide of the late 1970s.
Now, in an ambitious oral-history project, a Concordia University research team is starting to interview more than 500 of these survivors, as well as people who escaped deadly political violence in Haiti since the 1960s.
Thirty-eight researchers and community-group volunteers are recording people's experiences on digital video or audio in their own homes and archiving them for future use. Refugee youths will also be interviewed, theatre workshops will be formed based on testimonies, and genocide victims will eventually give guest lectures in high schools and CEGEP.
"It's hard to imagine a more important area of research than genocide and war and traumatic memory - these are profoundly important parts of the human experience," said Steve High, an oral historian who holds Concordia's Canada Research Chair in Public History.
"It's not just other people's history. It's our own history, as well, because these people don't just live someplace far off - they live right here among us." Backed by a $1.5-million federal grant, the project is called Life Stories of Montrealers Displaced by War, Genocide and Other Human-Rights Violations.
Today, High and other project leaders and participants will hold an annual meeting to plot the next four years of their research for this project. The interviews will be catalogued in a database, and might eventually be accessible to the public online.
"This project gives voice to those who escaped genocide, wherever it happened in the world," said Callixte Kabayiza, 57, president of the Association of Parents and Friends of Genocide Victims in Rwanda, known as PAGE-Rwanda.
"Scholars usually do research on people, not with them," said Kabayiza, who arrived in Quebec at the height of his country's genocide. "That's what makes this project different. It's giving people a chance to write their own stories, through the means of the extended interview. That's the power of oral history." Typically, interviewees will spend between two and five hours altogether recounting their stories, long enough for the the account to be deep and as full as possible, the researchers believe.
"It's a real chance for everyone to talk from the bottom of their hearts about something many have never talked about," said Savary Chhem-Kieth, 54, president of the Communauté angkorienne du Canada, a Montreal-based Cambodian association.
"A lot of people have been so busy making a living here, learning a new language, simply surviving, that they haven't had the opportunity to really talk about the past and what brought them here," said Chhem-Kieth, who escaped the Khmer atrocities by living abroad as a student.
For the project, some 150 Holocaust survivors will be interviewed, along with 200 people from Rwanda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as 150 Cambodians and 50 Haitians.
Among them, researchers expect to find not only victims, but perpetrators, too. But the aim of the project isn't to expose anyone. That's why anyone who wants to can ask for anonymity, and have their names changed in the research archives that will eventually be made available to the public.
"We're not going on a hunt for anyone," Chhem-Kieth cautioned. "That's not the point of the exercise. We're all victims, in a way, so it would be pointless." Same goes for refugees whose stories might not jibe with accounts they gave when they asked for status in Canada - they, too, won't be challenged.
"It's not about getting at the truth - it's about getting at people's own truth," High said. "Interviews aren't an objective source of information." The intercultural approach to learning about genocide is a natural one, Kabayiza said, because in Quebec, different groups have similar histories. Rwandans, for example, are very interested in how Jews have organized the memory of their tragedy, especially at the Holocaust Memorial Centre.
"The evil of genocide is universal," he said. "Each of us has lived it in own own way, of course, but we can share some of that unfortunate history in a spirit of peace and mutual understanding." For more information on Life Stories, contact Luis Van Isschot at 514-848-2424, Local 7920, or cura@alcor.concordia.ca jheinrich@ thegazette.canwest.com
Cambodian newspaper publisher released from prison after PM intervenes
June 15, 2008
Publisher of Cambodian-language newspaper the Khmer Conscience News Dam Sith was released from the Prey Sar Prison Sunday noon after Prime Minister Hun Sen intervened, said his lawyer Choung Chou Ngy.
"Premier Hun Sen wrote an intervention letter to the court, so my client won his temporary release," Choung Chou Ngy said.
We paid nothing or bail for the release because of the letter, he said, adding "we all thank the prime minister and the court to provide justice for my client."
Dam Sith was jailed one week earlier under the charge of "disinformation, defamation and insult," which was filed by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hor Namhong at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court.
Hor Namhong charged him for he published an article on his newspaper that quoted Sam Rainsy, leader of major opposition Sam Rainsy Party, as saying that the minister used to work as prison chief during the Democratic Kampuchea (DK) era and the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) should bring him on trial.
Hor Namhong denied the report, by saying that he was prisoner rather than prisoner chief during that time.
Source: Xinhua
Publisher of Cambodian-language newspaper the Khmer Conscience News Dam Sith was released from the Prey Sar Prison Sunday noon after Prime Minister Hun Sen intervened, said his lawyer Choung Chou Ngy.
"Premier Hun Sen wrote an intervention letter to the court, so my client won his temporary release," Choung Chou Ngy said.
We paid nothing or bail for the release because of the letter, he said, adding "we all thank the prime minister and the court to provide justice for my client."
Dam Sith was jailed one week earlier under the charge of "disinformation, defamation and insult," which was filed by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hor Namhong at the Phnom Penh Municipal Court.
Hor Namhong charged him for he published an article on his newspaper that quoted Sam Rainsy, leader of major opposition Sam Rainsy Party, as saying that the minister used to work as prison chief during the Democratic Kampuchea (DK) era and the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia (ECCC) should bring him on trial.
Hor Namhong denied the report, by saying that he was prisoner rather than prisoner chief during that time.
Source: Xinhua
Cambodia Editor Freed on Bail Ahead of Election
ReutersJun 15, 2008
PHNOM PENH—A Cambodian newspaper editor and opposition candidate was freed on bail on Sunday after a outcry from rights activists who accused the government of trying to silence critics ahead of a July general election.
Dam Sith, a candidate for the opposition Sam Rainsy Party, was charged last week with defaming Foreign Minister Hor Namhong in an article about the Khmer Rouge, the regime blamed for the deaths of 1.7 million Cambodians in the 1970s.
"This is about putting pressure on journalists. This is all about politics," Dam Sith, editor of the Khmer Conscience newspaper, told reporters after he was granted bail.
Amnesty International said Dam Sith's arrest demonstrated how the criminal justice system "is used and abused" to silence critics of the government in the runup to the July 27 poll.
"His arrest sends a message of fear to journalists and other media workers in the lead-up to national elections next month," the human rights group said last week.
The government of Prime Minister Hun Sen has denied any wrongdoing.
Hun Sen, a former Khmer Rouge soldier who has been in power over the last 23 years, and his Cambodian People's Party are widely expected to win the parliamentary election, possibly with a clear majority of seats.
Hun Sen said early this month that his former co-premier Norodom Ranariddh, now a major opponent who has formed his own political party, would face jail if he returned to the country.
Ranariddh was found guilty last year in an embezzlement suit brought against him by colleagues in the royalist FUNCINPEC party who had ousted him as party leader.
Ranariddh, who was sentenced in absentia to 18 months in prison, has spent most of his time since the trial in self-imposed exile in Malaysia.
Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia, was built almost 1,000 years after Angkor Wat and is almost as impressive.6/15/2008
By Chris Gray
The Philadelphia Inquirer
SIEM REAP, Cambodia - Let's be honest: It was the specter of tigers, temples and tom yam soup that led my husband and me to honeymoon in Southeast Asia. We wanted an adventure to remember, on a continent where neither of us had been.
But as I researched our trip, I realized that we should spend at least a little time practicing "voluntourism," giving back to people who are still struggling for the basics after decades of war and poverty.
We found a way to have it all in Siem Reap, Cambodia, home of the ancient temple complex Angkor Wat, and Ponheary Ly, a tour guide who considers it her mission to help educate as many Cambodian children as possible.
I found Ly, a Siem Reap native and survivor of dictator Pol Pot's labor camps, through the Asia message board on Fodors.com. Ly, 44, is a veteran guide who has arranged private tours of Angkor Wat and other Siem Reap attractions in both English and French - languages she learned in secret during the Vietnamese occupation of Cambodia - since 2000.
A former English teacher, Ly has also worked for seven years to enroll children in Cambodian schools. While public school in the country is ostensibly free for the first three years, many rural children do not have the $12 necessary for shoes, school supplies or uniforms, she said.
"As a teacher, I knew about the difficulties of the kids and families who couldn't send the kids to schools," she said. "Also, I found that the kids are smart, but they don't have any occasion to show how smart they are. To build the country, we have to build the education for all people, especially the kids."
It's a message that Ly's clients - mostly Americans who prefer independent travel with native guides to packaged tours - could support. In addition to touring the temples, more and more visitors asked Ly whether they could visit the schools and donate money for bicycles, supplies and uniforms.
One such convert
Lori Carlson, formerly of Austin, Texas, was one such convert. When she visited here in 2005, Carlson was struck by Ly's background and dedication. On her return to the States, she founded the Ponheary Ly Foundation (www.theplf.org), a registered nonprofit that channels money directly to the schools.
Carlson, 48, raised $90,000 for five schools - and quit her job to move here to work full time with Ly. She formed a board of directors for the PLF, which distributed school supplies to 1,955 children.
"I believe the travelers who go to visit the temples at Angkor Wat understand they bear at least some of the responsibility to gently nudge these children toward school rather than reinforce the idea that it's good to stand on the corner and beg dollars from tourists," she said.
With such strong advocates, Don and I were excited to meet Ly and do our part. We arrived here to find a city undergoing massive change. The number of tourists visiting Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, has exploded in recent years, spurring an increase in hotels, shops, restaurants and other businesses.
While the influx of dollars has been good for many Cambodians (merchants prefer U.S. dollars to the Cambodian rial), it's disconcerting to see barefoot bicyclists ride past $800-a-night hotels. Young children hawk maps, books and trinkets near the temple grounds; tuk-tuk drivers fight over $1 fares.
That's not to say that Don and I eschew luxury (it was our honeymoon, after all). We turned down a $20 room at Ly's simple guest house, primarily because it didn't have a pool, which we considered essential to deal with the area's crushing humidity. At $95, our poolside room at Bopha Angkor was spacious yet not ostentatious, and the package included daily breakfast, a traditional Khmer dinner and a massage.
More than 300 temples
Just a few hours after we landed, we went to Angkor Wat with Ly's brother Dara as our guide. There are more than 300 temples in the complex, but Dara steered us to the ones that would provide the most interesting backdrops for my husband, the photographer.
As we sweated in the 90-degree heat, I asked Dara about his family's experience under the Khmer Rouge. He told us that his father, a teacher in Siem Reap, was among the first wave of educated people to be killed under Pol Pot's regime. As a result, Dara and his siblings were sent with their mother to the countryside to work.
It's a sobering tale, and we heard more from Ly over the next few days. Ly, who was 13 when the Khmer Rouge came to power, and her siblings survived, mainly because villagers would leave food for them at night.
"We were given this much rice," Ly told us, holding up the tip of her finger.
Dara would "crawl out on all fours, like a cat" to get extra food; sometimes, actual cats or monkeys would have gotten to the rations instead, she said.
Still, the extra nourishment kept the family alive - and the Khmer Rouge noticed. Officials asked her mother why her children were still alive when so many other youngsters had died, Ly said. When her mother refused to answer, she was horribly beaten.
Such atrocities were common in the Pol Pot years. Yet most Cambodians don't like to talk about the time under the Khmer Rouge, Carlson said. It's rare to find it discussed in schools, primarily due to the country's Buddhist beliefs, which hold that people - even war criminals - are responsible for their own karma.
Understands what's important
Ly is different, Carlson said. She understands that it's important to talk about the past so it doesn't happen again. We were talking in Ly's van, on our way to deliver lunch to the 476 children at Knar school, out in the Cambodian countryside. On the road, we saw men on bikes toting crates filled with piglets and open huts with children playing in the dirt.
Cambodian families expect all children, no matter how young, to contribute economically, Ly told us. Which is why even the kids who are lucky enough to go to school attend for a half day; at home, they are needed for chores, farm work or other ways to make money.
Incentives
In addition to a donation made before our trip, we gave Ly $40 for lunch, which buys two noodle packets for each child. That's essential, Carlson said, because if the child received only one packet, he or she would take it home to the family instead of eating it. The school tries to feed the children at least once a day to make sure they have enough energy to learn, Carlson said.
We arrived at Knar School, which consists of several one-story classrooms. As Don carried the boxes of noodle packets into the rooms, the children's eyes grew wide. They straightened in their seats and thanked us by pressing their hands together and bowing.
Carlson and Ly showed us around the school and talked about the improvements that have been made. Incentives such as bicycles, uniforms, and extra noodle packets show the families that there are tangible benefits to their children attending school, Carlson said.
"I would like to have my country be the same as the other countries," Ly said, with Cambodian children able "to have good education to work well to get out from the poor life."
The children seemed to love school, showing off their uniforms and books. An impromptu game of soccer ensued, with Don in the thick of it. It was an emotional sight for me, which sparked later discussion: Although we had been together several years, Don and I had never talked about the greater good we could accomplish as a couple.
It's a conversation that all newlyweds should have, wherever their honeymoon takes them. For us, road-testing our fledgling marriage in an underdeveloped country not only gave us the adventures we sought, but also set the course for a more permanent path. And that's definitely a trip worth taking.
By Chris Gray
The Philadelphia Inquirer
SIEM REAP, Cambodia - Let's be honest: It was the specter of tigers, temples and tom yam soup that led my husband and me to honeymoon in Southeast Asia. We wanted an adventure to remember, on a continent where neither of us had been.
But as I researched our trip, I realized that we should spend at least a little time practicing "voluntourism," giving back to people who are still struggling for the basics after decades of war and poverty.
We found a way to have it all in Siem Reap, Cambodia, home of the ancient temple complex Angkor Wat, and Ponheary Ly, a tour guide who considers it her mission to help educate as many Cambodian children as possible.
I found Ly, a Siem Reap native and survivor of dictator Pol Pot's labor camps, through the Asia message board on Fodors.com. Ly, 44, is a veteran guide who has arranged private tours of Angkor Wat and other Siem Reap attractions in both English and French - languages she learned in secret during the Vietnamese occupation of Cambodia - since 2000.
A former English teacher, Ly has also worked for seven years to enroll children in Cambodian schools. While public school in the country is ostensibly free for the first three years, many rural children do not have the $12 necessary for shoes, school supplies or uniforms, she said.
"As a teacher, I knew about the difficulties of the kids and families who couldn't send the kids to schools," she said. "Also, I found that the kids are smart, but they don't have any occasion to show how smart they are. To build the country, we have to build the education for all people, especially the kids."
It's a message that Ly's clients - mostly Americans who prefer independent travel with native guides to packaged tours - could support. In addition to touring the temples, more and more visitors asked Ly whether they could visit the schools and donate money for bicycles, supplies and uniforms.
One such convert
Lori Carlson, formerly of Austin, Texas, was one such convert. When she visited here in 2005, Carlson was struck by Ly's background and dedication. On her return to the States, she founded the Ponheary Ly Foundation (www.theplf.org), a registered nonprofit that channels money directly to the schools.
Carlson, 48, raised $90,000 for five schools - and quit her job to move here to work full time with Ly. She formed a board of directors for the PLF, which distributed school supplies to 1,955 children.
"I believe the travelers who go to visit the temples at Angkor Wat understand they bear at least some of the responsibility to gently nudge these children toward school rather than reinforce the idea that it's good to stand on the corner and beg dollars from tourists," she said.
With such strong advocates, Don and I were excited to meet Ly and do our part. We arrived here to find a city undergoing massive change. The number of tourists visiting Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992, has exploded in recent years, spurring an increase in hotels, shops, restaurants and other businesses.
While the influx of dollars has been good for many Cambodians (merchants prefer U.S. dollars to the Cambodian rial), it's disconcerting to see barefoot bicyclists ride past $800-a-night hotels. Young children hawk maps, books and trinkets near the temple grounds; tuk-tuk drivers fight over $1 fares.
That's not to say that Don and I eschew luxury (it was our honeymoon, after all). We turned down a $20 room at Ly's simple guest house, primarily because it didn't have a pool, which we considered essential to deal with the area's crushing humidity. At $95, our poolside room at Bopha Angkor was spacious yet not ostentatious, and the package included daily breakfast, a traditional Khmer dinner and a massage.
More than 300 temples
Just a few hours after we landed, we went to Angkor Wat with Ly's brother Dara as our guide. There are more than 300 temples in the complex, but Dara steered us to the ones that would provide the most interesting backdrops for my husband, the photographer.
As we sweated in the 90-degree heat, I asked Dara about his family's experience under the Khmer Rouge. He told us that his father, a teacher in Siem Reap, was among the first wave of educated people to be killed under Pol Pot's regime. As a result, Dara and his siblings were sent with their mother to the countryside to work.
It's a sobering tale, and we heard more from Ly over the next few days. Ly, who was 13 when the Khmer Rouge came to power, and her siblings survived, mainly because villagers would leave food for them at night.
"We were given this much rice," Ly told us, holding up the tip of her finger.
Dara would "crawl out on all fours, like a cat" to get extra food; sometimes, actual cats or monkeys would have gotten to the rations instead, she said.
Still, the extra nourishment kept the family alive - and the Khmer Rouge noticed. Officials asked her mother why her children were still alive when so many other youngsters had died, Ly said. When her mother refused to answer, she was horribly beaten.
Such atrocities were common in the Pol Pot years. Yet most Cambodians don't like to talk about the time under the Khmer Rouge, Carlson said. It's rare to find it discussed in schools, primarily due to the country's Buddhist beliefs, which hold that people - even war criminals - are responsible for their own karma.
Understands what's important
Ly is different, Carlson said. She understands that it's important to talk about the past so it doesn't happen again. We were talking in Ly's van, on our way to deliver lunch to the 476 children at Knar school, out in the Cambodian countryside. On the road, we saw men on bikes toting crates filled with piglets and open huts with children playing in the dirt.
Cambodian families expect all children, no matter how young, to contribute economically, Ly told us. Which is why even the kids who are lucky enough to go to school attend for a half day; at home, they are needed for chores, farm work or other ways to make money.
Incentives
In addition to a donation made before our trip, we gave Ly $40 for lunch, which buys two noodle packets for each child. That's essential, Carlson said, because if the child received only one packet, he or she would take it home to the family instead of eating it. The school tries to feed the children at least once a day to make sure they have enough energy to learn, Carlson said.
We arrived at Knar School, which consists of several one-story classrooms. As Don carried the boxes of noodle packets into the rooms, the children's eyes grew wide. They straightened in their seats and thanked us by pressing their hands together and bowing.
Carlson and Ly showed us around the school and talked about the improvements that have been made. Incentives such as bicycles, uniforms, and extra noodle packets show the families that there are tangible benefits to their children attending school, Carlson said.
"I would like to have my country be the same as the other countries," Ly said, with Cambodian children able "to have good education to work well to get out from the poor life."
The children seemed to love school, showing off their uniforms and books. An impromptu game of soccer ensued, with Don in the thick of it. It was an emotional sight for me, which sparked later discussion: Although we had been together several years, Don and I had never talked about the greater good we could accomplish as a couple.
It's a conversation that all newlyweds should have, wherever their honeymoon takes them. For us, road-testing our fledgling marriage in an underdeveloped country not only gave us the adventures we sought, but also set the course for a more permanent path. And that's definitely a trip worth taking.
Cambodian prime minister requests release of jailed news editor
TopNews.in
June 14th, 2008
by Sahil Nagpal
Phnom Penh - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen wrote late Saturday to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court requesting the release of an imprisoned opposition newspaper editor on bail, journalists' representatives said.
The Cambodian Club of Journalists, which lobbied the prime minister personally Friday, said by telephone that the letter had been prepared and sent to the court at around 9 pm local time.
Dam Sith, an opposition candidate for the Sam Rainsy Party in elections scheduled next month and editor of pro-opposition Moneaksekar Kampuchea newspaper, was arrested last Sunday and detained on charges of disinformation, "insult" and defamation.
He is charged with printing allegedly defamatory comments made by opposition leader Sam Rainsy about Foreign Minister Hor Namhong.
If Sith is released almost immediately, as expected after the prime minister's intervention, it will add to claims by rights groups that the judiciary is not independent of government influence.
However, it is likely to please Sith and his family after his detention in one of the region's most notorious jails, Prey Sar prison, for almost exactly one week.
His detention on civil charges is unheard of, but the court ruled he was a risk to witnesses - something which has infuriated rights and media advocates, who claim his imprisonment is a prime example of the Cambodian courts being used for political ends.
The ruling Cambodian People's Party of Hun Sen has repeatedly claimed Sith's detention was a personal matter between Hor Namhong, who also serves as deputy prime minister and a party politbureau member, the court and Sith and was in no way linked to the party. (dpa)
June 14th, 2008
by Sahil Nagpal
Phnom Penh - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen wrote late Saturday to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court requesting the release of an imprisoned opposition newspaper editor on bail, journalists' representatives said.
The Cambodian Club of Journalists, which lobbied the prime minister personally Friday, said by telephone that the letter had been prepared and sent to the court at around 9 pm local time.
Dam Sith, an opposition candidate for the Sam Rainsy Party in elections scheduled next month and editor of pro-opposition Moneaksekar Kampuchea newspaper, was arrested last Sunday and detained on charges of disinformation, "insult" and defamation.
He is charged with printing allegedly defamatory comments made by opposition leader Sam Rainsy about Foreign Minister Hor Namhong.
If Sith is released almost immediately, as expected after the prime minister's intervention, it will add to claims by rights groups that the judiciary is not independent of government influence.
However, it is likely to please Sith and his family after his detention in one of the region's most notorious jails, Prey Sar prison, for almost exactly one week.
His detention on civil charges is unheard of, but the court ruled he was a risk to witnesses - something which has infuriated rights and media advocates, who claim his imprisonment is a prime example of the Cambodian courts being used for political ends.
The ruling Cambodian People's Party of Hun Sen has repeatedly claimed Sith's detention was a personal matter between Hor Namhong, who also serves as deputy prime minister and a party politbureau member, the court and Sith and was in no way linked to the party. (dpa)
Sex workers have been forcibly detained in rehabilitation centres where they have been rap
by Maxine Doogan
Saturday Jun 14th, 2008
TO STOP SEX WORKER RAIDS AND CALL FOR THE REPEAL OF THE TRAFFICKING LAW THAT THE CAMBODIAN GOVERNMENT PASSED TO MEET STANDARDS IMPOSED BY THE U.S. GOVERNMENT’S TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS REPORT
From Andrew Hunter at the Asia Pacific Network of Sex Workers
Cambodia has recently passed an anti-trafficking law which equates all sex work with trafficking and has led to massive closures of brothels and widespread human rights abuses against sex workers. Sex workers have been forcibly detained in rehabilitation centres where they have been raped and robbed by police and guards. Thousands of women have lost their livelihoods and HIV positive sex workers have great difficulty in accessing ARV’s- both in and outside the detention centres.
Condoms are being used as evidence of sex work and carrying condoms leads to arrest or forced “rehabilitation.” Sex workers are scared to carry condoms and to access STI services. The national HIV prevention programs for sex workers have completely broken down.
On June 4 Women’s Network for Unity, Cambodian Prostitutes Union and Cambodian Network for Men’s and Women’s Development- Cambodia’s 3 grass-roots Sex Worker Networks are coming together with APNSW to have an open day of Action.
WNU have also written to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen asking for his intervention to protect sex workers from the human rights abuses encouraged by this law, and those abuses that are a direct result of it’s enforcement. The press release is pasted below and the letter to PM Hun Sen is attached.
APNSW calls on all those organisations who support the human rights of sex workers to sign onto these demands by declaring their support for WNU’s call for this situation to be urgently addressed by the government of Cambodia and for UNAIDS and other UN agencies to openly declare their support for sex workers human rights and to reject the anti-trafficking law itself as a violation of sex workers human rights.
Watch video at http://blip.tv/file/970833
Saturday Jun 14th, 2008
TO STOP SEX WORKER RAIDS AND CALL FOR THE REPEAL OF THE TRAFFICKING LAW THAT THE CAMBODIAN GOVERNMENT PASSED TO MEET STANDARDS IMPOSED BY THE U.S. GOVERNMENT’S TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS REPORT
From Andrew Hunter at the Asia Pacific Network of Sex Workers
Cambodia has recently passed an anti-trafficking law which equates all sex work with trafficking and has led to massive closures of brothels and widespread human rights abuses against sex workers. Sex workers have been forcibly detained in rehabilitation centres where they have been raped and robbed by police and guards. Thousands of women have lost their livelihoods and HIV positive sex workers have great difficulty in accessing ARV’s- both in and outside the detention centres.
Condoms are being used as evidence of sex work and carrying condoms leads to arrest or forced “rehabilitation.” Sex workers are scared to carry condoms and to access STI services. The national HIV prevention programs for sex workers have completely broken down.
On June 4 Women’s Network for Unity, Cambodian Prostitutes Union and Cambodian Network for Men’s and Women’s Development- Cambodia’s 3 grass-roots Sex Worker Networks are coming together with APNSW to have an open day of Action.
WNU have also written to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen asking for his intervention to protect sex workers from the human rights abuses encouraged by this law, and those abuses that are a direct result of it’s enforcement. The press release is pasted below and the letter to PM Hun Sen is attached.
APNSW calls on all those organisations who support the human rights of sex workers to sign onto these demands by declaring their support for WNU’s call for this situation to be urgently addressed by the government of Cambodia and for UNAIDS and other UN agencies to openly declare their support for sex workers human rights and to reject the anti-trafficking law itself as a violation of sex workers human rights.
Watch video at http://blip.tv/file/970833
The Department of Agriculture Publishes Contract System to Farmers’ Associations to Plant Sugar Cane
Posted on 14 June 2008.
The Mirror, Vol. 12, No. 564
“Svay Rieng: In the afternoon of 11 June 2008, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery announced a contract system to farmers’ associations’ representatives in the province to plant sugarcane, to change to new crops planting which can provide high yields and can obtain suitable income. The president of the provincial department of agriculture, Mr. Thach Ratana, the representative of Kamadeno [phonetic] Venture Cambodia Limited (KVCL), Mr. Nagarayu [phonetic], and 197 farmers’ associations’ representatives from all districts of the province participated in this act.
“Mr. Thach Ratana said that because some farmers, nowadays, have land that is not used for rice farming, and because the planting of paddy rice does not provide very good yields, and because farmers lack capital for the cultivation and some leave their land unused, the agricultural department contacted a company to invest in the agricultural sector and agro-industry by providing loans to farmers to plant sugarcane in order to increase the cultivation as much as possible on the land they have. Mr. Thach Ratana added that this year, the Indochina Food Industrial Company of Singapore is interested in Cambodia and invests with the farmers to plant sugarcane on 500 hectares of land as a test; and the company provides seeds of sugarcane, teaches techniques for planting, for caring, for using fertilizer, and for harvesting, and provides capital and fertilizer to farmers for planting until the farmers obtain their first yield. This is the day to provide information to farmers’ associations by the department of agriculture, to spread this information to other members at the villages, so that they can prepare themselves and the land for doing rice farming and for planting sugarcane in 2009.
“The Representative of KVCL, Mr. Nagarayu, said that the company has practiced the program of planting sugarcane in Vietnam successfully for twelve years in Long An Province of Vietnam with farmers on 20,000 hectares of land to produce sugar and wine. The waste from sugarcane is used to create 45 megawatt electricity for the villages; and the company is interested in Cambodian fertile soil that can provide 70 tonnes to 100 tonnes per hectare. He added that because Mr. Thach Ratana, the president of the provincial department of agriculture, has organized farmers’ associations in a proper structure at the local level, the company wants to invest directly with farmers to plant sugarcane. If farmers have at least half a hectare of land, the company will provide loans of sugarcane seed and fertilizer to farmers, and train them in the ways to plant, to choose seeds, to use fertilizer, to take care, to harvest, and to protect their plants etc. The company also provides tractors and machines for planting, and teaches farmers how to use them by themselves.
“Mr. Nagarayu continued that sugarcane can be harvested in four years; and per year, one hectare of sugarcane can be harvested once and can provide from 70 tonnes to 100 tonnes. The company buys it for US$20 per tonne. So, with just 60 tonnes, they can get US$480; US$560 from 70 tonnes; US$640 form 80 tonnes; US$810 from 90 tonnes; and US$1,000 from 100 tonnes. From 60 tonnes to 80 tonnes, the company gives 40% of the profits to farmers; with 90 tonnes they can earn 50%; and if farmers have 100 hectares of land, the company will dig channels to bring water, charging for it.
“Mr. Thach Ratana said that the provincial agricultural department organized the center for the publication of the planting of sugarcane in Ou Smach Village, Chamlang Tralach Commune, Svay Chrum District by planting sugarcane on five hectares of land with the cooperation of KVCL. He went on to say that the planting of sugarcane needs much capital, and many citizens cannot afford it. In Vietnam, people are rich so they have their own capital to plant sugarcane, when they harvest, they sell it directly to the company. As for Cambodia, because they cannot afford it, the company provides equipment, techniques, seeds, and fertilizer, and the farmers just invest their land and their labor. When they get their yields, the company shares 50% of the profits; this is a good opportunity. Citizens can decide to use some land for sugarcane planting and some for rice farming. If we compare, 2 tonnes to 2.5 tones of paddy rice are from one hectare of land which is equal to US$250 to US$300, but nowadays prices of land increase and if we cut out other expenses, the most profits are form US$100 to US$150. Therefore, we must change the kind of crops for plating in order to obtain suitable income that can improve the living standard.”
Koh Santepheap, Vol.41, #6371, 14.6.2008
The Mirror, Vol. 12, No. 564
“Svay Rieng: In the afternoon of 11 June 2008, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishery announced a contract system to farmers’ associations’ representatives in the province to plant sugarcane, to change to new crops planting which can provide high yields and can obtain suitable income. The president of the provincial department of agriculture, Mr. Thach Ratana, the representative of Kamadeno [phonetic] Venture Cambodia Limited (KVCL), Mr. Nagarayu [phonetic], and 197 farmers’ associations’ representatives from all districts of the province participated in this act.
“Mr. Thach Ratana said that because some farmers, nowadays, have land that is not used for rice farming, and because the planting of paddy rice does not provide very good yields, and because farmers lack capital for the cultivation and some leave their land unused, the agricultural department contacted a company to invest in the agricultural sector and agro-industry by providing loans to farmers to plant sugarcane in order to increase the cultivation as much as possible on the land they have. Mr. Thach Ratana added that this year, the Indochina Food Industrial Company of Singapore is interested in Cambodia and invests with the farmers to plant sugarcane on 500 hectares of land as a test; and the company provides seeds of sugarcane, teaches techniques for planting, for caring, for using fertilizer, and for harvesting, and provides capital and fertilizer to farmers for planting until the farmers obtain their first yield. This is the day to provide information to farmers’ associations by the department of agriculture, to spread this information to other members at the villages, so that they can prepare themselves and the land for doing rice farming and for planting sugarcane in 2009.
“The Representative of KVCL, Mr. Nagarayu, said that the company has practiced the program of planting sugarcane in Vietnam successfully for twelve years in Long An Province of Vietnam with farmers on 20,000 hectares of land to produce sugar and wine. The waste from sugarcane is used to create 45 megawatt electricity for the villages; and the company is interested in Cambodian fertile soil that can provide 70 tonnes to 100 tonnes per hectare. He added that because Mr. Thach Ratana, the president of the provincial department of agriculture, has organized farmers’ associations in a proper structure at the local level, the company wants to invest directly with farmers to plant sugarcane. If farmers have at least half a hectare of land, the company will provide loans of sugarcane seed and fertilizer to farmers, and train them in the ways to plant, to choose seeds, to use fertilizer, to take care, to harvest, and to protect their plants etc. The company also provides tractors and machines for planting, and teaches farmers how to use them by themselves.
“Mr. Nagarayu continued that sugarcane can be harvested in four years; and per year, one hectare of sugarcane can be harvested once and can provide from 70 tonnes to 100 tonnes. The company buys it for US$20 per tonne. So, with just 60 tonnes, they can get US$480; US$560 from 70 tonnes; US$640 form 80 tonnes; US$810 from 90 tonnes; and US$1,000 from 100 tonnes. From 60 tonnes to 80 tonnes, the company gives 40% of the profits to farmers; with 90 tonnes they can earn 50%; and if farmers have 100 hectares of land, the company will dig channels to bring water, charging for it.
“Mr. Thach Ratana said that the provincial agricultural department organized the center for the publication of the planting of sugarcane in Ou Smach Village, Chamlang Tralach Commune, Svay Chrum District by planting sugarcane on five hectares of land with the cooperation of KVCL. He went on to say that the planting of sugarcane needs much capital, and many citizens cannot afford it. In Vietnam, people are rich so they have their own capital to plant sugarcane, when they harvest, they sell it directly to the company. As for Cambodia, because they cannot afford it, the company provides equipment, techniques, seeds, and fertilizer, and the farmers just invest their land and their labor. When they get their yields, the company shares 50% of the profits; this is a good opportunity. Citizens can decide to use some land for sugarcane planting and some for rice farming. If we compare, 2 tonnes to 2.5 tones of paddy rice are from one hectare of land which is equal to US$250 to US$300, but nowadays prices of land increase and if we cut out other expenses, the most profits are form US$100 to US$150. Therefore, we must change the kind of crops for plating in order to obtain suitable income that can improve the living standard.”
Koh Santepheap, Vol.41, #6371, 14.6.2008
France, China to sign oil and gas deal with Cambodia
Trading Market.com
Saturday, June 14,
Phnom Penh, Jun 13, 2008 ; France's oil and gas company TOTAL and China National Offshore Oil Corporation CNOOC are expected to sign a deal with Cambodia to explore oil and gas on the mainland of Cambodia.
The signing ceremony will take place this year, following the conclusion of Cambodia?s parliamentary election scheduled on July 27.
Currently, other oil and gas companies in the world such as Moeco, Jogmec, GS Gallex, Pan Orient and Inpex are working with Cambodian National Petroleum Authority (CNPA) to reach agreements on oil and gas exploration in the coutry.
Saturday, June 14,
Phnom Penh, Jun 13, 2008 ; France's oil and gas company TOTAL and China National Offshore Oil Corporation CNOOC are expected to sign a deal with Cambodia to explore oil and gas on the mainland of Cambodia.
The signing ceremony will take place this year, following the conclusion of Cambodia?s parliamentary election scheduled on July 27.
Currently, other oil and gas companies in the world such as Moeco, Jogmec, GS Gallex, Pan Orient and Inpex are working with Cambodian National Petroleum Authority (CNPA) to reach agreements on oil and gas exploration in the coutry.
Cambodian Cabinet approves 2 hydroelectric dam projects to be built by Chinese companies
The Associated Press
Published: June 14, 2008
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: The Cambodian Cabinet has approved plans for Chinese companies to build two hydroelectric plants beginning the end of this year, a government official said Saturday.
Environmental groups say the dams threaten the country's ecosystem and the livelihoods of thousands.
Both dams will be located in Koh Kong province in southwestern Cambodia, said Seng Savorn, a spokesman of the Council of Ministers.
China National Heavy Machinery Corp. will take until at least 2014 to complete a US$540 million dam, which should be able to generate up to 246 megawatts of electricity, he said.
Another Chinese company, Michelle Corp., is to build a US$495.7 million dam intended to generate up to 338 megawatts of electricity, he said. The project is due to be completed in 2015.
Electricity generation in Cambodia remains largely undeveloped, with most power plants using fossil fuels. The impoverished Southeast Asian nation also buys electricity from neighboring Vietnam and Thailand.
Power costs in Cambodia are among the highest in the world, and only about 12 percent of its 14 million people have access to electricity, according to the World Bank.
Electricity prices are also a major source of complaint from investors in Cambodia.
In a bid to meet future electricity demand, the government has identified 14 potential hydroelectric dam sites across the country.
Environmentalists have voiced concerns about the impact those projects will have.
In a report earlier this year, U.S.-based International Rivers Network said "poorly conceived hydropower development could irreparably damage" Cambodia.
"Large hydropower projects can incur significant environmental and social costs that risk undermining sustainable development," said the report released in January.
Seng Savorn dismissed the concerns, saying the projects were studied thoroughly before they were approved by the Cabinet.
Published: June 14, 2008
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia: The Cambodian Cabinet has approved plans for Chinese companies to build two hydroelectric plants beginning the end of this year, a government official said Saturday.
Environmental groups say the dams threaten the country's ecosystem and the livelihoods of thousands.
Both dams will be located in Koh Kong province in southwestern Cambodia, said Seng Savorn, a spokesman of the Council of Ministers.
China National Heavy Machinery Corp. will take until at least 2014 to complete a US$540 million dam, which should be able to generate up to 246 megawatts of electricity, he said.
Another Chinese company, Michelle Corp., is to build a US$495.7 million dam intended to generate up to 338 megawatts of electricity, he said. The project is due to be completed in 2015.
Electricity generation in Cambodia remains largely undeveloped, with most power plants using fossil fuels. The impoverished Southeast Asian nation also buys electricity from neighboring Vietnam and Thailand.
Power costs in Cambodia are among the highest in the world, and only about 12 percent of its 14 million people have access to electricity, according to the World Bank.
Electricity prices are also a major source of complaint from investors in Cambodia.
In a bid to meet future electricity demand, the government has identified 14 potential hydroelectric dam sites across the country.
Environmentalists have voiced concerns about the impact those projects will have.
In a report earlier this year, U.S.-based International Rivers Network said "poorly conceived hydropower development could irreparably damage" Cambodia.
"Large hydropower projects can incur significant environmental and social costs that risk undermining sustainable development," said the report released in January.
Seng Savorn dismissed the concerns, saying the projects were studied thoroughly before they were approved by the Cabinet.
Saturday, 14 June 2008
Army told to be quiet over temple row
Noppadon (L) shook hand Sok An (R) during their talks over Preah Vihear in Paris on 24th May 2008.The Bangkok Post
Saturday June 14, 2008
Noppadon doesn't want ties with Cambodia hurt
THANIDA TANSUBHAPOL & WASSANA NANUAM
Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama has asked the supreme commander to order military officers who have no authority to refrain from giving interviews about the disputed Preah Vihear temple. The move came after an army source complained to the media on Thursday that a new Cambodian map of the Preah Vihear temple was found to encroach on Thai territory by up to 10 metres in two critical areas.
Mr Noppadon said he had asked the ministry's permanent secretary Virasakdi Futrakul to talk with Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niempradit and insist his subordinates not give interviews about sensitive state issues.
''Just think about who will benefit from this. Don't hide by identifying yourself as 'a source'. I don't want ill-intentioned people to derail this smooth-running train,'' said Mr Noppadon.
He warned those who have no authority to give interviews to refrain from saying anything that could affect Thailand's relations with Cambodia.
''I have the authority to speak about this issue, so let me speak alone. If anybody dares to give interviews, please use your real name. I will let the defence minister warn him,'' said Mr Noppadon.
He also advised people not to arouse nationalistic sentiment and not to let politics damage national benefits.
He was referring to the protest by residents of Si Sa Ket province over the listing of the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site and about Cambodians building houses and shops beyond Cambodia's border with Thailand.
Mr Noppadon said the issues will be resolved step by step. He noted that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his deputy Sok An were cooperating with Thailand on the temple issue.
The Foreign Ministry will submit the new map to the National Security Council (NSC) and the cabinet to endorse next week, said the minister.
He said all problems about the new map have been resolved now that Thai agencies have verified the map against the actual site.
''I have already discussed this issue with the Cambodian side and I will not do anything on which I can be attacked later,'' said Mr Noppadon.
Cambodia handed the new map to Thailand on June 5 for consideration after both countries agreed in Paris late last month at a Unesco-brokered meeting to draw up the new map.
The Phnom Penh government plans to submit the map to the Unesco committee later this month to propose the temple ruins as a World Heritage Site.
The Unesco committee will meet early next month in Quebec, Canada.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Tarit Charungwat said everything had been done openly.
''The government has acted with full transparency, using the principle of national sovereignty as the guiding force,'' he said.
''When the work has been done in accordance with the proper process, we can explain it accurately,'' he said.
Gen Boonsrang yesterday admitted that Mr Noppadon had called him to request the military not grant any interviews about Preah Vihear.
''He told me the military should not give any interviews related to the Preah Vihear temple as the issue is now being handled by the Foreign Ministry.
''If an interview is given, it may cause some trouble. The Foreign Ministry will hold talks with Cambodia over the issue,'' said Gen Boonsrang. He has already instructed his subordinates to hold their tongues.
Gen Boonsrang said the Foreign Ministry, which is the key negotiator, must take the ultimate responsibility.
Saturday June 14, 2008
Noppadon doesn't want ties with Cambodia hurt
THANIDA TANSUBHAPOL & WASSANA NANUAM
Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama has asked the supreme commander to order military officers who have no authority to refrain from giving interviews about the disputed Preah Vihear temple. The move came after an army source complained to the media on Thursday that a new Cambodian map of the Preah Vihear temple was found to encroach on Thai territory by up to 10 metres in two critical areas.
Mr Noppadon said he had asked the ministry's permanent secretary Virasakdi Futrakul to talk with Supreme Commander Gen Boonsrang Niempradit and insist his subordinates not give interviews about sensitive state issues.
''Just think about who will benefit from this. Don't hide by identifying yourself as 'a source'. I don't want ill-intentioned people to derail this smooth-running train,'' said Mr Noppadon.
He warned those who have no authority to give interviews to refrain from saying anything that could affect Thailand's relations with Cambodia.
''I have the authority to speak about this issue, so let me speak alone. If anybody dares to give interviews, please use your real name. I will let the defence minister warn him,'' said Mr Noppadon.
He also advised people not to arouse nationalistic sentiment and not to let politics damage national benefits.
He was referring to the protest by residents of Si Sa Ket province over the listing of the Preah Vihear temple as a World Heritage site and about Cambodians building houses and shops beyond Cambodia's border with Thailand.
Mr Noppadon said the issues will be resolved step by step. He noted that Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen and his deputy Sok An were cooperating with Thailand on the temple issue.
The Foreign Ministry will submit the new map to the National Security Council (NSC) and the cabinet to endorse next week, said the minister.
He said all problems about the new map have been resolved now that Thai agencies have verified the map against the actual site.
''I have already discussed this issue with the Cambodian side and I will not do anything on which I can be attacked later,'' said Mr Noppadon.
Cambodia handed the new map to Thailand on June 5 for consideration after both countries agreed in Paris late last month at a Unesco-brokered meeting to draw up the new map.
The Phnom Penh government plans to submit the map to the Unesco committee later this month to propose the temple ruins as a World Heritage Site.
The Unesco committee will meet early next month in Quebec, Canada.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Tarit Charungwat said everything had been done openly.
''The government has acted with full transparency, using the principle of national sovereignty as the guiding force,'' he said.
''When the work has been done in accordance with the proper process, we can explain it accurately,'' he said.
Gen Boonsrang yesterday admitted that Mr Noppadon had called him to request the military not grant any interviews about Preah Vihear.
''He told me the military should not give any interviews related to the Preah Vihear temple as the issue is now being handled by the Foreign Ministry.
''If an interview is given, it may cause some trouble. The Foreign Ministry will hold talks with Cambodia over the issue,'' said Gen Boonsrang. He has already instructed his subordinates to hold their tongues.
Gen Boonsrang said the Foreign Ministry, which is the key negotiator, must take the ultimate responsibility.
18 Cambodian Students to Study in U.S. as Fulbright Scholars
Ambassador Mussomeli (front row, 3rdfrom rt.) and H.E. Dr. Kol Pheng (front row, 3rd from left) and the ten newestCambodian Fulbright students. Embassy of United States in Cambodia
Phnom Penh
June 12, 2008
The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh conducted a pre-departure orientation for 10 Cambodian students who will pursue graduate degrees in the U.S. as new participants in the Fulbright Fellowship Program. They will join 8 other Cambodian Fulbright students currently in the U.S. for a total of 18 Cambodian students studying under the Fulbright program in 2008-2009. For the first time ever, Cambodian students will also pursue Ph.D. degrees with Fulbright funding.
Guests of honor for the opening ceremony were U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia Joseph A. Mussomeli and H.E. Dr. Kol Pheng, Senior Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports. After the opening ceremony, the new students and their parents had the opportunity to discuss living and studying in the U.S. with two recently returned Fulbright alumni: Mr. Chan Virak, who received a Masters in TESL from San Jose State University, and Ms. Noun Monisophorn, who received an MBA from Brandeis University.
The Fulbright Fellowship Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1945 as a means to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright program was re-instituted in Cambodia in 1994. Since that time, 94 Cambodian students have pursued programs of graduate study in the U.S., and 44 American Senior Scholars and Specialists have traveled to Cambodia to teach in Cambodian universities and assist with curriculum development.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mussomeli told the students, "You are about to embark on an adventure that will change your lives. Not only will you pursue an academic program that will strengthen your personal skills and development, you will also serve as cultural ambassadors to the United States during your time there, working to increase American understanding of Cambodia." The primary source of funding for the Fulbright program is an annual appropriation from Congress to the Department of State. The allocation for the Fulbright program in Cambodia in 2008 is $500,000. Additionally, U.S. universities that will host Cambodian Fulbright students for the 2008-2009 academic year will contribute an additional $170,000 in scholarships and cost sharing, bringing the total value of the Fulbright Program for Cambodia this year to $670,000.
Fulbright Student Fellowship grants provide round-trip transportation to the United States, and tuition, fees and living expenses for full-time graduate study (except as noted below). The application process to become a Cambodian Fulbright Student Scholar begins in March each year with Embassy staff conducting information sessions on the process at universities throughout Cambodia.
To be eligible for the Fulbright program, applicants must:
-have a strong academic background and a record of excellence in previous studies;
-have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university;
-be proficient in English (minimum TOEFL score 570);
-be able to adapt readily to a foreign environment; and
-be in good health and able to undergo a rigorous study program.
Since the Fulbright program is one of mutual exchange, it is also important to note that during the upcoming academic year two American Fulbright Scholars will travel to Cambodia to conduct curriculum development work at the Royal University of Phnom Penh in Education Leadership and at the National University of Management in Business Marketing. Additionally, four American students will come to Cambodia to conduct research as part of the Fulbright program. These will be the individuals whom U.S. institutions of higher education will depend on to transmit a knowledge of Cambodia to American students in the years ahead, and so we are pleased to support these scholars as well.
Since its establishment, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 286,000 participants -- chosen for their leadership potential -- with the opportunity to observe each others' political, economic and cultural institutions, exchange ideas, and embark on joint ventures of importance to the general welfare of the world's inhabitants. Fulbright alumni populate an entire range of professions and include heads of state, cabinet ministers, ambassadors, Members of Congress, judges, heads of corporations, university presidents, journalist, artists, professors, and teachers. Actor John Lithgow, composer Philip Glass, opera singer Renee Fleming and economist Joseph Stiglitz are among notable former American grantees.
In Cambodia, several Fulbright alumni are working in key positions in the Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and Natural Resources Preservation, and Interior. Many others are lecturers at different universities and national program officers for a variety of international and non-governmental organizations.
2008-2009 Cambodian Fulbright Student Grantees
New Students:
-Ms. Khun Channary Ph.D. In Economics, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
-Mr. Chea Kagnarith Master's Degree in Applied Linguistics, Arizona State University
-Ms. Prak Thapanak Vatey Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, Portland State University
-Ms. Pors Sidonie Master's in Educational Technology, Columbia University
-Mr. Sim Hoychhoung Master's in Business Administration, Brandeis University
-Ms. Ou Chouly Ph.D. in Environmental Studies, Biodiversity Conservation, Texas A & M University
-Ms. Sar Samphors Master's Degree in Education - Curriculum Design for Secondary Education, University of Kansas
-Ms. Kim Solyda Master's Degree in Computer Science, Purdue University
-Mr. Chui Chamnan Master's Degree in Business Administration, Worcester Technology Institute
-Mr. Hor Soknak* Master's Degree in Communications, American University, School of Communication
Renewed Students:
-Ms. Dy Keo Kunthea Master's in Public Health, Indiana State University
-Mr. Peo Vathana Master's Degree in Structural Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic
-Mr. Seang Soleak Master's Degree in Journalism, University of Kansas
-Mr. Heng Piphal Master's Degree in Archaeology, University of Hawaii, Manoa
-Mr. Chou Huot Master's Degree in Economics, Syracuse University
-Ms. Ong Bopha Master's Degree in Education Administration, State University of New York, Buffalo
-Ms. Pou Pichrachana Master's Degree in Business Administration, University of Akron
-Mr. Thy Khemra Master's Degree in Economics, New York University
*Receiving partial Fulbright funding
Phnom Penh
June 12, 2008
The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh conducted a pre-departure orientation for 10 Cambodian students who will pursue graduate degrees in the U.S. as new participants in the Fulbright Fellowship Program. They will join 8 other Cambodian Fulbright students currently in the U.S. for a total of 18 Cambodian students studying under the Fulbright program in 2008-2009. For the first time ever, Cambodian students will also pursue Ph.D. degrees with Fulbright funding.
Guests of honor for the opening ceremony were U.S. Ambassador to Cambodia Joseph A. Mussomeli and H.E. Dr. Kol Pheng, Senior Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports. After the opening ceremony, the new students and their parents had the opportunity to discuss living and studying in the U.S. with two recently returned Fulbright alumni: Mr. Chan Virak, who received a Masters in TESL from San Jose State University, and Ms. Noun Monisophorn, who received an MBA from Brandeis University.
The Fulbright Fellowship Program was established by the U.S. Congress in 1945 as a means to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries. The Fulbright program was re-instituted in Cambodia in 1994. Since that time, 94 Cambodian students have pursued programs of graduate study in the U.S., and 44 American Senior Scholars and Specialists have traveled to Cambodia to teach in Cambodian universities and assist with curriculum development.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mussomeli told the students, "You are about to embark on an adventure that will change your lives. Not only will you pursue an academic program that will strengthen your personal skills and development, you will also serve as cultural ambassadors to the United States during your time there, working to increase American understanding of Cambodia." The primary source of funding for the Fulbright program is an annual appropriation from Congress to the Department of State. The allocation for the Fulbright program in Cambodia in 2008 is $500,000. Additionally, U.S. universities that will host Cambodian Fulbright students for the 2008-2009 academic year will contribute an additional $170,000 in scholarships and cost sharing, bringing the total value of the Fulbright Program for Cambodia this year to $670,000.
Fulbright Student Fellowship grants provide round-trip transportation to the United States, and tuition, fees and living expenses for full-time graduate study (except as noted below). The application process to become a Cambodian Fulbright Student Scholar begins in March each year with Embassy staff conducting information sessions on the process at universities throughout Cambodia.
To be eligible for the Fulbright program, applicants must:
-have a strong academic background and a record of excellence in previous studies;
-have completed a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university;
-be proficient in English (minimum TOEFL score 570);
-be able to adapt readily to a foreign environment; and
-be in good health and able to undergo a rigorous study program.
Since the Fulbright program is one of mutual exchange, it is also important to note that during the upcoming academic year two American Fulbright Scholars will travel to Cambodia to conduct curriculum development work at the Royal University of Phnom Penh in Education Leadership and at the National University of Management in Business Marketing. Additionally, four American students will come to Cambodia to conduct research as part of the Fulbright program. These will be the individuals whom U.S. institutions of higher education will depend on to transmit a knowledge of Cambodia to American students in the years ahead, and so we are pleased to support these scholars as well.
Since its establishment, the Fulbright Program has provided more than 286,000 participants -- chosen for their leadership potential -- with the opportunity to observe each others' political, economic and cultural institutions, exchange ideas, and embark on joint ventures of importance to the general welfare of the world's inhabitants. Fulbright alumni populate an entire range of professions and include heads of state, cabinet ministers, ambassadors, Members of Congress, judges, heads of corporations, university presidents, journalist, artists, professors, and teachers. Actor John Lithgow, composer Philip Glass, opera singer Renee Fleming and economist Joseph Stiglitz are among notable former American grantees.
In Cambodia, several Fulbright alumni are working in key positions in the Ministries of Finance, Agriculture and Natural Resources Preservation, and Interior. Many others are lecturers at different universities and national program officers for a variety of international and non-governmental organizations.
2008-2009 Cambodian Fulbright Student Grantees
New Students:
-Ms. Khun Channary Ph.D. In Economics, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
-Mr. Chea Kagnarith Master's Degree in Applied Linguistics, Arizona State University
-Ms. Prak Thapanak Vatey Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, Portland State University
-Ms. Pors Sidonie Master's in Educational Technology, Columbia University
-Mr. Sim Hoychhoung Master's in Business Administration, Brandeis University
-Ms. Ou Chouly Ph.D. in Environmental Studies, Biodiversity Conservation, Texas A & M University
-Ms. Sar Samphors Master's Degree in Education - Curriculum Design for Secondary Education, University of Kansas
-Ms. Kim Solyda Master's Degree in Computer Science, Purdue University
-Mr. Chui Chamnan Master's Degree in Business Administration, Worcester Technology Institute
-Mr. Hor Soknak* Master's Degree in Communications, American University, School of Communication
Renewed Students:
-Ms. Dy Keo Kunthea Master's in Public Health, Indiana State University
-Mr. Peo Vathana Master's Degree in Structural Engineering, Virginia Polytechnic
-Mr. Seang Soleak Master's Degree in Journalism, University of Kansas
-Mr. Heng Piphal Master's Degree in Archaeology, University of Hawaii, Manoa
-Mr. Chou Huot Master's Degree in Economics, Syracuse University
-Ms. Ong Bopha Master's Degree in Education Administration, State University of New York, Buffalo
-Ms. Pou Pichrachana Master's Degree in Business Administration, University of Akron
-Mr. Thy Khemra Master's Degree in Economics, New York University
*Receiving partial Fulbright funding
For Sok Kong, being 'green' makes cents
KAY KIMSONG Cambodian tycoon Sok Kong enjoys a day at the beach in Sihanoukville on June 7. The Phnom Penh Post
Written by Kay Kimsong and Cat Barton
Thursday, 12 June 2008
Tourism to Cambodia will be essential for attracting new investment in the next decade but the Kingdom must weigh long-term environmental concerns against rapid expansion in the already booming sector, key industry figures said.
“Thinking long term, tourism [is] the major sector to invest in ... if we keep our environment clean then we will be able to attract more tourists in the future,” Sok Kong, founder and owner of Sokimex, told the Post in a June 9 interview.
Sokimex Cambodia Investment Co., Ltd was founded in 1994 and has a portfolio which ranges from garments to gas by way of five-star hotels.
The company has recently launched a $1-billion renovation of the decaying French colonial era Bokor Mountain resort, which will include two new luxury golf courses, and has several other major tourism-related projects in the pipeline, including a 500-room hotel on the Chroy Changva peninsula in Phnom Penh.
“The project will be started in July, next month is the inauguration,” Sok Kong said of the Phnom Penh hotel. “But the price of commodities has almost doubled – before the project was slated to cost $70 million but now we are looking at $100 million plus.”
The impact of the global spike in commodities prices is affecting all of Sokimex’s projects, however for Sok Kong “the real challenge is the environment.”
“It is the role, or duty, of the government to protect the environment for the future and it is also the role of the private sector,” he said.
“We as investors have to consider the environment – that is in everyone’s interest. If the government or companies do not protect [the environment] then we will all suffer.”
Sok Kong said tourism development projects in pristine natural environments such as Cambodia’s beaches or national parks should be carefully scrutinized by the government to avoid inadvertently destroying the same natural beauty that attracted tourists to the Kingdom in the first place.
“For the two hotel projects in Sihanoukville, environment is my first concern before anything else,” he said.
“All the sectors [tourism, energy, heavy industry] have to go forward together but the environment must come first,” he added.
Environmental watchdogs, however, are skeptical that Cambodia can balance conservation and development, pointing out that waste management at the country’s multitude of tourist destinations was already a problem.
“The proposed golf course at Bokor Mountain is located inside a protected area. We worry that the investment might cause problems for many locals in the area,” Sam Chanthy, an environment project officer for the NGO Forum of Cambodia said on June 11.
But Tourism Minister Thong Khon said his ministry was aware of environmental concerns stemming from the country’s rapid growth and was trying to encourage eco-friendly tourism projects through an award system for environmentally conscious developers.
“We only award concessions to investors who understand the importance of environmental protection,” Thon Khon said.
Sokimex’s Bokor Mountain project has passed an environmental assessment, he said, as has the recently inaugurated Russian-owned Koh Puos investment project.
Written by Kay Kimsong and Cat Barton
Thursday, 12 June 2008
Tourism to Cambodia will be essential for attracting new investment in the next decade but the Kingdom must weigh long-term environmental concerns against rapid expansion in the already booming sector, key industry figures said.
“Thinking long term, tourism [is] the major sector to invest in ... if we keep our environment clean then we will be able to attract more tourists in the future,” Sok Kong, founder and owner of Sokimex, told the Post in a June 9 interview.
Sokimex Cambodia Investment Co., Ltd was founded in 1994 and has a portfolio which ranges from garments to gas by way of five-star hotels.
The company has recently launched a $1-billion renovation of the decaying French colonial era Bokor Mountain resort, which will include two new luxury golf courses, and has several other major tourism-related projects in the pipeline, including a 500-room hotel on the Chroy Changva peninsula in Phnom Penh.
“The project will be started in July, next month is the inauguration,” Sok Kong said of the Phnom Penh hotel. “But the price of commodities has almost doubled – before the project was slated to cost $70 million but now we are looking at $100 million plus.”
The impact of the global spike in commodities prices is affecting all of Sokimex’s projects, however for Sok Kong “the real challenge is the environment.”
“It is the role, or duty, of the government to protect the environment for the future and it is also the role of the private sector,” he said.
“We as investors have to consider the environment – that is in everyone’s interest. If the government or companies do not protect [the environment] then we will all suffer.”
Sok Kong said tourism development projects in pristine natural environments such as Cambodia’s beaches or national parks should be carefully scrutinized by the government to avoid inadvertently destroying the same natural beauty that attracted tourists to the Kingdom in the first place.
“For the two hotel projects in Sihanoukville, environment is my first concern before anything else,” he said.
“All the sectors [tourism, energy, heavy industry] have to go forward together but the environment must come first,” he added.
Environmental watchdogs, however, are skeptical that Cambodia can balance conservation and development, pointing out that waste management at the country’s multitude of tourist destinations was already a problem.
“The proposed golf course at Bokor Mountain is located inside a protected area. We worry that the investment might cause problems for many locals in the area,” Sam Chanthy, an environment project officer for the NGO Forum of Cambodia said on June 11.
But Tourism Minister Thong Khon said his ministry was aware of environmental concerns stemming from the country’s rapid growth and was trying to encourage eco-friendly tourism projects through an award system for environmentally conscious developers.
“We only award concessions to investors who understand the importance of environmental protection,” Thon Khon said.
Sokimex’s Bokor Mountain project has passed an environmental assessment, he said, as has the recently inaugurated Russian-owned Koh Puos investment project.
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