Friday, june 18, 2021 Intelligent . In-depth . Independent Issue Number 3688 / 4000 RIEL GDP growth forecast 4.0%: World Bank May Kunmakara which the jab drive loses too ven and volatile, due in part to goods exports have adapted, dia-China Free Trade Agree- much steam and is accompa- a lockdown imposed to control growing by 12.2 per cent year- ment [CCFTA]”. WORLD Bank on June 17 pro- nied by frequent, prolonged the spread of Covid-19. on-year during January-April, The CCFTA was signed on jected Cambodia’s economic and nationwide lockdowns. “Cambodia’s growth outlook or 31.8 per cent year-on-year October 12, allowing the King- growth to accelerate to 4.0 per Under this scenario, the econ- remains highly uncertain, with in April alone, as external dom to export a wide range of cent this year after contracting omy is projected to grow by just the shape and pace of recovery demand improved. goods to the Asian juggernaut 3.1 per cent in 2020, thanks to 1.0 per cent in 2021, it said. largely dependent on the He said a contraction in at a zero per cent tariff rate. online REGIONAL a fast rollout of Covid-19 vac- In its latest Economic Update course of the virus and the exports of garments, footwear According to Sodeth, gar- cines and the revitalisation of for Cambodia entitled Road to speed at which vaccines can and travel goods (GFT) was ments accounted for 45.6 per ministers of global demand. Recovery launched at a virtual be rolled out,” it said. “partly offset by rising electri- cent of total goods export val- However, the Washington- press conference, the World World Bank senior econo- cal/vehicle parts and bicycles, ue in the first four months of DEFENCE MEETS based multilateral lender also Bank cautioned that recovery mist for Cambodia Ly Sodeth agricultural, and other exports, come to close offers a downside scenario, in in the Kingdom remains une- told the press conference that boosted in part by the Cambo- Continued – page 7 national – page 4 THE first astronauts arrived at China’s new space station on June 17 in the country’s longest First astronauts crewed mission to date, a land- mark step in establishing Bei- jing as a major space power. arrive at China’s The trio blasted off on a Long March-2F rocket from the Jiuquan launch centre in space station northwest China’s Gobi desert, and their craft docked at the Tiangong station around sev- GLOBAL COVID en hours later, where they will spend the next three months. JAB DRIVE UPS State broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) DOMESTIC RISE showed a live feed from inside the spacecraft during the jour- IN FUEL PRICES ney, with the three astronauts lifting their helmet visors after business – page 9 it reached orbit as one smiled and waved at the camera. Another floated a pen just off his lap in zero-gravity as he browsed the flight manual. Around seven hours after lift- off, space officials confirmed that the craft had docked with Tianhe, the core module of the country’s new space station. The Shenzhou-12 craft has “successfully docked with the forward port of the core module” US’ BIDEN SETS of the Tiangong station, said the China Manned Space Agency, as RED LINE FOR state TV showed live footage. The mission’s commander is PUTIN OVER Nie Haisheng, a decorated air force pilot in the People’s Libera- CYBER ATTACKS tion Army who has already par- ticipated in two space missions. WORLD – Page 11 A Long March-2F carrier rocket, carrying the Shenzhou-12 spacecraft and a crew of three astronauts, lifts off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch The two other members are also Centre in the Gobi desert in northwest China on Thursday, the first crewed mission to China’s new space station. AFP members of the military. AFP US redirects Prey Lang aid Ry Sochan be redirected to various other protected areas, particularly cooperation between the port for increased ranger stakeholders concerned with in the sanctuary where USAID Cambodian government and patrols, training of law en- JELLY BAKERY HE US embassy the conservation of Prey Lang had previously invested sig- local communities and civil forcement and development in Cambodia an- Wildlife Sanctuary. nificant resources. society organisations to find of a national protected area MAKES DIGITAL nounced an end to The embassy said although A senior Ministry of Envi- solutions to protect Prey Lang management system, the assistance to govern- Cambodia had made some ronment official, however, and the natural heritage of the Prey Lang sanctuary has lost SWITCH WITH mentT entities under the US important strides in envi- countered the claim, saying Kingdom for the benefit of all approximately 38,000ha of Agency for International De- ronmental protection, the that only scall-scale offences Cambodians and the world.” forest, or nearly nine per cent VIDEO LESSONS velopment’s (USAID) Green- US had repeatedly expressed remained in Prey Lang. Unfortunately, it said, the of its forest cover. ing Prey Lang project. concerns about persistently In a statement, the embassy situation is worsening. Since lifestyle – page 14 This assistance will instead high deforestation rates in said: “We have urged increased 2016, despite USAID’s sup- Continued – page 2

THE PHNOM PENH POST Provinces gear up for National Covid-19 jab campaign Inside page 2 2 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com National P Sihanouk, S Rieng gear Ministry takes steps towards digital gov’t up for vaccination drive Ry Sochan more efficient. For example, to cre- ate a website or to respond to people’s Nov Sivutha THE Ministry of Interior has set up a concerns electronically,” Setha said. digital government working group to He said this digital system will help HE Preah Sihanouk Provin- focus on the use of information tech- his ministry work speedily and accu- cial Administration plans to nology to speed up the ministry’s rately. He explained that previously start a large-scale vaccina- work and make it more efficient. population registration was done by tion drive for people 18 and The working group has 15 mem- paper, but now electronically. overT from June 21, while Svay Rieng is bers and is chaired by Sak Setha, “With the digital system, a per- also planning the rollout of vaccines. the ministry’s permanent secretary son’s data is accurate. It cannot be Preah Sihanouk Provincial Hall of state, and has an assistant sec- corrected or changed by mistake or spokesman Kheang Phearom told retariat headed by the information without authorisation,” he said. The Post on June 17 that many vac- technology department under the According to the ministry’s deci- cination sites had been set up. Small general-secretariat. sion regarding the establishment scale vaccinations started from June “There are many related depart- of digital governance for informa- 17 and the process has run smooth- ments and sections within the interior tion, communication and tech- ly with people getting jabs in an or- ministry and they all need to be inte- nology (ICT) released on June 16, derly fashion due to prior prepara- grated into a digital government sys- this working group has the role of tions by authorities, especially the tem,” Setha told The Post on June 17. managing the ICT project in the preventative measures. He said that today the use of a ministry’s general departments “Vaccinations are for people from paper system resulted in multiple and units and developing a master the age of 18 and older, factories workloads, and it was too slow. plan for ICT and human resource workers, and all foreigners residing Having a digital government would capacity building training. in this province,” Phearom said, add- not mean that the use of the paper The working group is tasked with ing that more than 4,000 people in People wait for their turn to get vaccinated against Covid-19 in Preah Sihanouk system would be abandoned en- managing connectivity integration the province have contracted Covid- province in April. preah sihanouk provincial Administration tirely, however. between the ministry’s ICT systems 19 linked to the February 20 commu- “In the past, we always used phys- and those of other relevant minis- nity outbreak, with 22 deaths. trict; four in Kampong Seila district; mander of Paratrooper Brigade 911. ical paperwork. Now we’ve got a tries and institutions. According to the announcement two in Koh Rong town; and a loca- According to the provincial ad- working group within the ministry The working group is also re- by governor Kuoch Chamroeun on tion in Stung Hav district. The other ministration, the vaccination drive preparing a strategic plan to achieve sponsible for managing updates June 16, the province initially pre- locations are in the Special Eco- will focus on factory workers and the goal of finally organising our and evaluating the quality of the pared five locations for vaccinations nomic Zones,” he said. the general public, though the ac- system to be modern and electroni- ICT systems and equipment in line which started on June 17. He added vaccinations will be tual vaccination plan is yet to be cally advanced,” he said. with the evolving state of technolo- He said the province has more administered by medics from the finalised, said provincial adminis- He said paperwork is still used gy in the world, doing professional than 200,000 people aged 18 and provincial health department, Ream tration chief Hem Sina. because it is a necessary compo- work and providing more effective over, but around 10,000 of them Naval Base and Brigade 70. Separately on June 17, Royal nent of the technology they are us- public services. have already been vaccinated. The In Svay Rieng province where many Group chairman Kith Meng donat- ing so they are interconnected, but “The working group must also de- remainder will start receiving vac- workers have recently been tested, ed $3 million to the government for the government’s working proce- velop policies and legal documents cinations from June 21. authorities held a meeting on June the purchase of Antigen Rapid Test dures will make progress with the to ensure the implementation of the “To avoid large gatherings of peo- 17 to plan the vaccination campaign. Kits for Covid-19. advent of digital systems. ICT systems, digital government, ple who come for the vaccine, we The meeting was attended by provin- He said the rapid test kits will “We already have had a gradual shift digital citizens and digital business have set up 19 locations – five each cial governor Men Vibol and Lieuten- help the government reduce trans- to electronic systems, but we want within the interior ministry,” said in Sihanoukville and Prey Nop dis- ant General Chab Pheakdey, the com- mission risks. to set up a system that is easier and the announcement. Ministry to pursue conservation missions in ‘responsible manner’ Continued from page 1 in maintaining strong demo- forces would continue to en- cratic practices in all develop- force the law and work to pre- The embassy said well-docu- ment sectors, including the vent such incidents. mented illegal logging contin- protection of the Kingdom’s “With full peace having been ues in and around the sanctu- valuable natural resources,” achieved, Cambodia now has ary and Cambodian authorities the statement said. the opportunity to fully con- have not adequately prosecut- Ministry of Environment centrate on conserving its ed wildlife crimes or put a stop spokesman Neth Pheaktra natural resources,” he said. to these illicit activities. told The Post on June 17 that Pheaktra noted that with It alleged that the govern- the end to the project at this better protection and conser- ment continued to silence time would give the ministry vation, Cambodia had suc- and target local communities an opportunity to show that cessfully sold carbon credits to and their civil society partners its officials are capable of per- the voluntary market abroad. who are justifiably concerned forming its roles and duties Community member liveli- about the loss of their natural by protecting and conserving hood conditions had begun to resources. natural resources based on improve as links to natural or “As a result of these unresolved the laws currently in force. eco-tourism were forged and concerns, the United States is He added that the ministry new choices for occupations ending assistance to govern- would continue its missions in were created. ment entities under the USAID a responsible manner and pro- San Mala, advocacy officer Greening Prey Lang project. fessionally manage and con- of Forest Defenders Project at “This US assistance will serve the Prey Lang sanctuary Cambodia Youth Network and instead be redirected to sup- and other natural protected environmental activist, told port civil society, the private areas in Cambodia for the ben- The Post on June 17 that the sector and local efforts to im- efit of future generations. decision was a difficult one, prove livelihoods and expand “We respect the decision by but the embassy must do this climate sensitive agriculture,” this development partner and to respond to the calls made the statement said. we are thankful for contributions by communities, activists and The US, it noted, will contin- they have made to Cambodia civil society in Cambodia. ue to engage with the Cambo- to provide technical assistance, Mala claimed that the min- dian government on climate protect and conserve natural istry had imposed restrictions change and environmental resources in the Prey Lang area. on and prevented their groups issues of mutual and global “Both sides have agreed to from patrolling the forest and concern, including through divert this funding to other ignored their reports of log- the Mekong-US Partnership. opportunities for cooperation ging violations. “As we celebrate World En- in order to continue serving “This Greening Prey Lang vironment Day this month, the best interests of the Cam- Project has so far been imple- we are reminded that effec- bodian people,” he said. mented jointly by the min- tive environmental manage- Pheaktra claimed that large- istry and USAID staff, with ment requires transparent scale natural resource offenc- communities and activists ex- and accountable governance. es in Prey Lang and other nat- cluded. Now the environment “The United States affirms ural protected areas no longer ministry should reconsider the indispensable roles that occurred, save for small-scale allowing activists, communi- freedom of expression, peace- offences which he said was ties and civil society to carry ful protest, and government still a concern to address. He out some of their work in the accountability to citizens play said the ministry and police Prey Lang area,” he said. THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 3 National Environment UN: Workers’ plights need addressing authorities detain 3 over Lay Samean survive this difficult period. “The government pro- illegal wood HE UN in Cambodia vided workers with $40 and expressed concerns that’s good, but it should be NVIRONMENTAL rang- about the long-last- more than that because each ers from Pursat prov- ing impacts of Covid- worker spends between $100 Eince’s Phnum Samkos 19T on the socio-conomic and $200 a month just to live. Wildlife Sanctuary are rights of garment workers. Moreover, this [$40] was just building a case against three In a press release on June for some workers, not for ev- suspects who hid illegally 15, the UN said job losses and erybody,” he said. logged rosewood in Thma Da reduced income have made Ministry of Labour and Vo- commune’s Sangkum Thmei many workers struggle to meet cational Training spokesman village of Veal Veng district. their basic needs and many Heng Sour could not be reached The case will be referred to had taken out loans in the in- for comment on June 17. the provincial court. terim as a coping strategy. Samheng Boros, secretary Wildlife sanctuary director “Many workers lack access of state at the Ministry of Phan Sophearin told The Post to an adequate social safety Social Affairs, Veterans and on June 15 that his rangers net such as unemployment Youth Rehabilitation, on June had worked with Thma Da benefits, which place them at 17 thanked the UN for pro- commune and border police to risk of falling into poverty and viding technical support to seize 108 pieces of kronhuong, even hunger. The toll extends Cambodia in helping those known by its scientific name to garment workers’ families in need and especially with Dalbergia cochinchinensis, and the informal economy identifying poor households and detain the suspects. around factories. for government support. He identified the trio as Pich, “The [UN] is also concerned Garment workers leave their factory in Phnom Penh’s Toul Sangke commune. HONG MENEA However, he said the gov- 28, the owner of the house about conditions in quarantine ernment needs to pay atten- that stored the rosewood, and facilities for garment workers Through research conducted recent one-time post-lock- eration president Ath Thon tion to other people as well. his wife Chib Nary, 22. The who test positive, including a in May last year and in May and down emergency cash assis- agreed with the UN’s assess- “During the lockdown, the third is Vanny, 52, the father lack of information, hygiene June this year, the UN said most tance for workers. ments, saying the government government has also helped of San Vandeth. Vandeth owns supplies and PPE,” it said. workers have shown height- The UN noted that it had should pay more attention to other businesses that faced the wood and is known as a It noted that the pandemic ened concerns regarding per- provided support for this sec- women workers in this sector. challenges. military officer of the Border and efforts to slow the spread sonal finances, including being tor including assessments for “Women workers already “But we did pay special at- Guard Unit 501 at the Thma of the virus led to factory unable to pay back loans. They factories, capacity develop- face many challenges at their tention to garment workers Da border checkpoint. closures, layoffs and unpaid also had barriers to reporting ment and virtual workshops work. When the pandemic by not only providing them He continued that in late absences, affecting the live- Covid-19 symptoms because that convened industry stake- happened, they faced even with cash assistance, but we May, Vandeth had phoned lihoods of over 900,000 gar- of fear of quarantine and the holders together to discuss is- more challenges related to also paid for their electric- Pich and asked him to store ment sector workers, 80 per resultant loss of income. sues related to the sector. their livelihoods and their ity and water bills and rental the wood in a plantation cent of whom are women. It said it welcomed the It said it also engaged with family burdens,” he said. fees,” he said. house, which the couple Since the pandemic began, Cambodian government’s ef- factories and industry play- He recommended that the According to Boros, the gov- had left vacant, for a few garment exports dropped by forts to prioritise Covid-19 ers on issues including oc- government provide assis- ernment has provided cash days. But Pich refused as he around 9.9 per cent, leading vaccinations for the garment cupational safety and health, tance to every worker in the assistance to more than 50,000 realised the wood was illegal. to a 3.4 per cent reduction sector, the $40 monthly cash gender equality, Covid-19 locked down areas, without poor households in Phnom But Vandeth allegedly hid the from the 11 per cent it con- assistance to workers whose prevention, emergency pre- any conditions attached. He Penh and adjacent Takmao wood in the house without tributed to gross domestic workplaces are suspended paredness and many others. said each worker should get town in Kandal province as well their knowledge. Nov Sivutha product (GDP) in 2019. due to the pandemic and the Cambodian Labour Confed- at least $100 to enable them to as Preah Sihanouk province. 4 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com National Regional defence ministers’ Domestic workers face challenges, in virtual meetings wrap up need of protection Voun Dara Nov Sivutha women who work in clean- ing, cooking, care services and HROUGH the 15th DOMESTIC workers in Cam- gardening, among others. ASEAN Defence bodia face a number of chal- Pheng Srey, 38, a domestic Ministers Meeting lenges ranging from low worker for more than 10 years (ADMM) and the 8th wages to risk of trafficking, in Phnom Penh, said domes- ASTEAN Plus Defence Ministers’ the Independent Democ- tic workers are still discrimi- Meeting (ADMM-Plus) from racy of Informal Economy nated against and not valued June 15-16, an agreement was Association (IDEA) said in a by the outside world and the reached to adopt a number of statement marking the 10th employer. She said the gov- conceptual documents related International Day of Domes- ernment seemed to not place to strengthening cooperation. tic Workers under the theme high value on them. Minister of National De- Our Values, Our Rights. “For domestic workers, re- fence Tea Banh said the King- IDEA president Vorn Pov gardless of the government or dom will include a number of said on June 16 that Cambo- the outside world, they give us strategic perspectives when dia had yet to ratify the Inter- less value, unlike factory work- hosting the events in 2022. national Labour Organisation ers. Some employers also do not Tea Banh led the Cambo- (ILO) Convention No 189 for give us value and rights, such as dian delegation to attend decent work for domestic holidays, no time off and use us the virtual meetings at the workers and the Kingdom’s whenever they want,” she said. invitation of the Minister of labour law also did not spe- Srey requested that the gov- Defence of Brunei Darus- cifically address the workers. ernment provide a National salam, this year’s host for the In 2011, ILO adopted Conven- Social Security Fund (NSSF) meetings. tion No 189, which recognises card and value domestic According to a press release the rights of all workers. This workers the same as factory issued by the Cambodian de- includes leave, working hours, workers and make sure people fence ministry on June 16, at overtime pay, and appropriate respect their rights and not to the 15th ADMM, the ASEAN Minister of National Defence Tea Banh led the Cambodian delegation during the virtual 15th ASEAN Defence protection against all forms of discriminate against workers. defence ministers approved a Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and the 8th ASEAN Plus Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-Plus). Defence Ministry violence and harassment. The Post could not reach total of nine concept, discus- This recognition has become Heng Sour, spokesman for sion and standard operating group to overcome all obsta- Meeting from November 2021. full unity in the country – a a historic day for domestic the Ministry of Labour and rules documents. cles to achieve consensus on At the 8th ADMM-Plus, the topic of particular relevance workers around the world to Vocational Training, for com- Among them, four concep- all documents. ASEAN defence ministers ex- this year given the conflict celebrate on June 16 every year. ment on June 16. tual documents were adopted “As Cambodia hosts the changed views on the regional occurring in Myanmar. But according to Pov, rele- According to the ILO report focusing on improving the 2022 ADMM, we will include and international security en- “Cambodia supports the vant policies the government 2015, the domestic worker sec- telecommunications infra- a number of strategic per- vironment in line with each peacekeeping sector within has issued did not mention tor is an important part of the structure in ASEAN, strength- spectives, including strength- country’s priorities, such as the the UN framework, to which capacity building and any informal economy, covering ening ASEAN links with ex- ening the role of the armies of Indo-Pacific issue, the South it has been actively involved clear mechanism for protect- 67.1 million workers world- ternal partners, increasing ASEAN member states in re- China Sea disputes, the situ- since 2006. Cambodia has ing domestic workers, espe- wide (above 15-year-old), cooperation in the field of in- sponding to cross-border dis- ation in Myanmar, terrorism, also committed to promot- cially child labourers. Also, a most of whom were women formation security and estab- ing greater women’s partici- standard employment con- (83 per cent). lishing an information tech- Cambodia is committed to pation in peacekeeping op- tract for domestic workers In 2019, Prime Minister Hun nology centre for the ASEAN erations,” he said. has not been developed. Sen urged the public to un- defence sector. promoting greater women’s According to a press release “So far, domestic workers derstand the predicament of The ASEAN defence minis- participation in from the ASEAN-China In- have not received full cover- female domestic workers and ters also adopted the Bandar formal Meeting of Defence age and benefits from social allow them to have a holiday. Seri Begawan Joint Declara- peacekeeping operations Ministers, the Chinese de- protection programmes such “Because they are poor, some tion on the 15th Anniversary of fence minister and his ASE- as healthcare and occupa- of them have left their hus- the ADMM, which aims to in- ease outbreaks and strength- the Korean Peninsula, climate AN counterparts praised the tional risks. At the same time, bands and children at home crease readiness for a future of ening mechanisms to support change and regional rivalries. achievements and successes the strengthening and capacity and come to work for us. When peace and prosperity in ASE- ASEAN women in peacekeep- Tea Banh shared his views of ASEAN-China cooperation building of domestic workers is they have good food, they think AN with a focus on strength- ing operations,” he said. throughout the meeting, over the past three decades. still limited, as domestic work- about their husbands and chil- ening ASEAN and enhancing The meeting also approved highlighting a number of se- The meeting also reviewed ers are not required to be highly dren at home. Do you know defence operations among the principles of the annual curity issues such as the fight proposals for national de- skilled like others,” he said. this feeling? ASEAN member states. ADMM-Plus and the ASEAN- against Covid-19, terrorism, fence cooperation on the oc- According to the 2018 ILO “I think it’s time to consider Tea Banh praised the ef- Australia Informal Meeting of and especially the value of casion of the 30th anniversa- study, there were an estimated their feelings and have sym- forts of the ASEAN defence Defence Ministers and the ASE- Cambodia’s win-win policy ry of the establishment of the of 240,000 domestic workers pathy for those who are close ministers and their working AN-Republic of Korea Informal to end the civil war and bring ASEAN-China Dialogue. in Cambodia, most of them to us,” he said at the time. THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 5 6 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com National Two fined for Over 4.5 tonnes of drugs seized possession of

Khouth SophakChakrya Covid vaccines HE Koh Kong Provincial Court on ORE than four and a June 17 released two Chinese half tonnes of drugs Tnationals after they paid a fine were seized in crack- for the illegal possession of Sinovac downs on illegal drug Covid-19 vaccines without permission. Mtrafficking and production across Nuon Vutha, provincial Military the country in the past 18 months, Police deputy commander, told The according to the National Authority Post on June 17 that joint forces from for Combating Drugs (NACD). the provincial health department and NACD secretary-general Meas Virith Cham Yeam border checkpoint officers told The Post on June 16 that their ef- arrested the duo on June 16. forts in combating drugs remain ac- The two, aged 42 and 53, resided in tive despite the country being in the Cham Yeam village of Mondul Seima midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. district’s Bak Khlang commune. “Since the beginning of January “In the operation, 65 doses of Sinovac 2020, our anti-drug forces across the vaccine, a cooler box, 45 syringes, 11 country have seized more than 4,500kg packages of cotton swabs, three pairs of drugs and drug-related substances of gloves, three bottles of alcohol and arrested many foreign criminals sanitiser, and a car were confiscated,” for prosecution in court,” he said. he said. Virith said the drug trafficking He said the court freed them after networks within an international questioning and deciding that their and regional framework were evolv- offences were not serious enough for ing quickly and posed a serious risk imprisonment. to national security. Two Laotian men were apprehended with nearly 5kg of drugs in Preah Vihear province’s Chheb district on June 16. Police Eng Chan Pheara, the provincial court The trend towards the production deputy prosecutor who coordinated and trafficking of synthetic drugs Safe Mekong Coordination Centre border communities to educate local Vihear provincial police’s anti-drug the operation, told The Post on June continues to grow. The market for (SMCC) member countries – Cam- people, especially young people, about bureau, told The Post on June 17 that 17 that the two were initially charged methamphetamines has especially bodia, Thailand, Laos, China, Viet- the risks of drugs and participate in the the two Laotians, both aged 37, were under Article 10 of the Law on Pharma- expanded, while the opium and hero- nam and Myanmar – have been ac- fight against drugs through reporting arrested along with five large pack- ceutical Management. in crops have declined significantly. tively cooperating. on the network of drug criminals that ages of methamphetamines weighing “Under this article, suspects are Most drug production activities in Through the SMCC mechanism, the they know to the authorities so they nearly 5kg. Police also seized one boat obliged to pay a fine of between five the region are undertaken by armed six countries in the Greater Mekong can intervene in a timely manner. used for drug transportation and have and 10 milion riel ($1,250 and $2,500). groups of criminals and funded by Subregion have agreed to launch op- Separately on the night of June 16, sent the duo to the provincial police. All related offences can incur a fine international drug gangs, he said. eration 1511 to increase law enforce- the specialised forces of the anti- “Currently, the two suspects are from one to 10 million riel, and the “Assessing the international and ment efficiency and put pressure on drug department in cooperation being charged with the crime of Ministry of Health reserves the right to regional drug situation, maritime criminals to prevent and suppress with the Preah Vihear provincial cross-border drug trafficking from impose an interim penalty. geography remains an important drug production and trafficking in police and border guards busted Laos to Cambodia. They are under “This is the reason the court decided factor for determining the routes for the Golden Triangle and the circula- two Laotian men who had imported investigation by officials from the to release the two after they had paid large-scale drug trafficking to the tion of chemicals into the area. drugs to Cambodia by waterway. anti-drug bureau of the Preah Vihear the fine,” Chan Pheara said, adding global drug market,” he added. To strengthen this cooperation, The sting took place in Kampong provincial police who are preparing that the vaccines were handed over to He said that in response to the Cambodia has made efforts to imple- Sralao I commune’s Kampong Po a case to be sent to the provincial the provincial health department for current drug situation, permanent ment the drug-free border village village in Chheb district. court for prosecution in accordance destruction. Khouth Sophak Chakrya coordination officers from the six mechanism by training personnel in Sun Julona, director of the Preah with legal procedures,” he said. Pursat seeks gov’t help to combat forestry crimes in Cardamom park Orm Bunthoeurn

LAND encroachments in the Central Cardamom National Park number in the hundreds and have overwhelmed local authorities trying to prevent forest crimes, prompting the Pursat Provincial Adminis- tration to submit a report to the government requesting assistance. Provincial deputy gover- nor Khoy Rida told The Post on June 16 that according to actual sightings, people who occupied forest land seized from 3ha to 5ha per family and in some cases 6ha to 7ha. Some perpetrators cut down trees in the nearby moun- tains to sell. “Their plan is to sell the trees and not use the land for agriculture. If cultivation was Officers inspect an area that has been cleared in Pursat province’s Veal Veng district. Officials said people the aim then there is enough who occupied forest land seized from 3ha to 5ha per family and in some cases 6ha to 7ha. facebook land for farming. But, if the goal is to grow crops then tion of the park. Provincial au- of sub-national authorities. thorities will take preventa- they will find a buyer to pur- thorities have also taken back We have to report to the na- tive action,” he said. chase the land and move else- forest land as well as planted tional level for their consider- Chankea called for an in- where,” he said. trees on the mountains to re- ation, recommendation or do vestigation into those behind “Authorities do not harm store the area. something further,” he said. forest crimes and arrest them people. We clearly separate According to Rida, the team Sam Chankea, provincial co- for prosecution. Otherwise, the perpetrators from others on June 16 revisited the en- ordinator for the rights group only the people who are hired in a principled way. We are croachment area and divided Adhoc, said on June 16 that to cut down trees would be investigating the perpetrators into two groups. One group authorities were correct. If the caught and such arrests will who have fled and will pros- went to instruct each house- encroachers are more power- not end. ecute them when they are hold not to encroach on land ful than local authorities, pro- “Not until the people paying caught,” he said. and the other group went vincial authorities should send others to commit the crime The deputy governor said to confiscate state land that a report to the national level or corrupt officials who facili- that sub-national authorities people had illegally occupied. and disclose the problem. tate forest land clearing are work continuously to instruct But, he said provincial au- “If the Pursat provincial au- identified and punished can and guide people to be aware thorities needed assistance. thorities ask for intervention, we prevent further crimes,” and participate in the protec- “It is beyond the capacity I believe that the national au- he said. THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 7 Business

USD / KHR USD / CAD USD / CNY USD / JPY USD / MYR USD / SGD USD / THB AUD / USD EUR / USD GBP / USD 4,085 1.2322 6.4327 110.70 4.1400 1.3386 31.41 0.7596 1.1951 1.3971

Trading Information on Cambodia Securities Exchange Date: June 17, 2021 Auction Trading Method (ATM) No Stock Closing Price Opening Price High Low 1 ABC 13,140 13,140 13,140 13,140 2 GTI 3,990 4,200 4,200 3,840 3 PAS 13,700 14,480 14,500 13,100 4 PEPC 3,000 3,280 3,280 2,950 5 PPAP 15,000 15,200 15,220 15,000 6 PPSP 1,950 2,150 2,150 1,950 7 PWSA 6,680 6,980 6,980 6,660 Cambodia vaccine rate WTO to host tourism contest one of region’s highest Hin Pisei Continued from page 1 with Cambodia to provide fur- HE Ministry of Tourism on June ther support to combat the 17 invited tourism start-ups to this year, down from 52.2 per pandemic and help the coun- apply for the World Tourism cent last year and 57.6 per cent try’s resilient economic and Organisation’s (WTO) UNWTO in 2019. social recovery.” TRural Tourism Startup Competition. He said the US was the larg- The Cambodian government The event will provide participants a est market for Cambodian GFT is set to vaccinate more than chance to get technical and business men- products, buying up $3.5 bil- 1.2 million people in five addi- toring to scale their businesses and im- lion in 2020 (surging by 3.6 per tional provinces after finishing prove their products and services, as well cent year-on-year), which up in Phnom Penh and neigh- as the opportunity to present their busi- accounts for 36.7 per cent of bouring Kandal province. ness models at the WTO General Assem- total GFT exports last year. On June 14, the Kingdom bly in October, it said via social media. In contrast, GFT shipments reached a significant milestone, It stressed the merits of taking part in the to the EU market fell signifi- having inoculated three million WTO’s “Young Entrepreneurs in Rural Tour- cantly, contracting by 35 per people against SARS-CoV-2, or ism” contest for aspiring businesspeople in cent year-on-year, to $2.6 bil- 30 per cent of the 10 million tar- tourism or those with start-up ambitions lion in 2020, accounting for get for this year or early 2022. that could potentially help rural communi- 27.5 per cent of total GFT An additional 4.5 million doses ties recover from the Covid-19 crisis. exports, he added. of Covid-19 vaccines are expect- “The competition aims to recruit out- He said wholesale and retail ed to arrive in June along with standing young entrepreneurs from businesses managed to slowly another batch a month later. WTO member countries to stimulate the recover, supported by a gradual The World Bank recom- creation of tourism businesses, espe- revival in domestic consump- mends that the Kingdom take cially in rural tourism destinations, and The Kingdom boasts vast natural and rural areas with great prospects for tourism development. tion. “This helps as consump- immediate steps to shore up support the livelihoods of locals towards HONG MENEA tion expenditure accounts for market confidence by urgent- more sustainable, inclusive and resilient more than two-thirds of GDP ly accelerating its vaccination tourism development, especially in re- ment at the grassroots level, it added. Kingdom, especially after the situation [gross domestic product]”. programme, while simultane- tort to the blows dealt by the Covid-19 It invited those interested in the com- surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic However, he said, the rate of ously continuing to take meas- crisis,” the ministry said. petition to visit the website unwto.org/ has been subdued. contraction in imports of con- ures to contain infections. Winners of the competition will become unwto-global-rural-tourism-startup- “This event is being held at a time when sumer and durable goods – “Given the country’s rela- members of the World Young Entrepre- competition Cambodia is studying the possibility of except foodstuffs, moderated tively wide fiscal space, the neurs Network, receive technical assis- Cambodia Association of Travel Agents reopening to foreign tourists, so it is an in the first four months of this government can support relief, tance from the WTO to strengthen their (CATA) president Chhay Sivlin told The opportunity for young people to promote year as market confidence recovery, and growth by businesses, and have the opportunity to Post that young people are the main driv- Cambodia’s rural tourism,” Sivlin said. improved. improving the business and take the stage and pitch their businesses ing force behind the promotion of the On April 7, tourism minister Thong World Bank country man- investment climate, providing to the management of World Tourism ecotourism and rural tourism potential Khon said he had asked Prime Minister ager for Cambodia Inguna social assistance programmes, from 159 countries and major world or- resting in the Kingdom, emphasising that Hun Sen to consider opening the door to Dobraja said: “Like many coun- and boosting public invest- ganisations at the 24th WTO General As- their participation in “such a world-class the Angkor area in October-December for tries in the region, Cambodia ment and pro-poor growth. sembly in October, in the major Moroccan competition” is very important to extend international tourists who have been vac- has been hit hard by the global “To maintain financial sec- economic centre of Marrakesh, it said. their abilities and gain new experiences. cinated against the novel coronavirus. demand shock brought on by tor stability, it also important To qualify, candidates must demon- Pointing out that the Kingdom boasts The appeal came amid improve- Covid-19. But the good news is for the authorities to closely strate the uniqueness of their businesses, vast natural and rural areas with great ments in community management in that Cambodia has now vac- monitor vulnerabilities that highlight the level of innovation, address prospects for tourism development, she the Angkor area and a sped-up vaccina- cinated more than three mil- can arise from a prolonged their bearing on the livelihoods of peo- said the competition offers a rare and tion process for civil servants and key lion people, one of the highest property boom and increased ple affected by Covid-19, and show how special opportunity for young Cambo- players in the tourism industry, as well rates in the region. credit provided to the con- they contribute to sustainable develop- dians to attract foreign tourists to the as other sectors, he said. “The World Bank is working struction sector,” it said. Prasac logs share capital increase

May Kunmakara Prasac executive vice-presi- to customers’ needs as well as $3.22 billion and outstanding dent Say Sony said the capital the flexibility of terms and deposits reached $2.15 billion, BOND-LISTED Prasac Microfi- increase “proves” that Prasac conditions of products and he said. nance Institution Plc on June 17 has a strong position to sustain services and digital financial “We hope that clients will said it increased its registered its robust growth of customers, services,” he said. feel more secure and confident share capital to $300 million investors and public trust. Sony told The Post on June in us. The robust liquidity and from $230 million to achieve a “Prasac is pleased for the 17 that since 2008 Prasac has capital position ensures that sound financial position to gain official approval obtained raised its registered capital Prasac is able to weather any the public’s confidence. from the National Bank of eight times, to $3.75 million in stress arising from changes in The increase is distributed Cambodia and the Ministry of 2008, to $20 million in 2012, to the operating environment, among four shareholders – KB Commerce on the increment $47 million in 2014, to $72 mil- such as the ongoing Covid-19 Kookmin Bank in South Korea, of the registered capital. lion in 2015, to $110 million in situation,” Sony said. A Prasac branch in Kiri Voan commune’s Phsar Trapaing Kraloeng village The Bank of East Asia Ltd “The additional capital is 2016, to $168 million and then In mid-April last year, KB of Kampong Speu province’s Phnom Sruoch district. NAROT PHAN VIA FACEBOOK (BEA) in Hong Kong, Lanka the key to build more public to $230 million in 2019, and finished paying $603.4 million Orix Leasing Company Plc trust and stems from our now to $300 million. for a 70 per cent stake in Pras- and finalise the acquisition. allocating 1,272,000 shares in (LOLC) in Sri Lanka, and Pras- strong business growth As of March 31, Prasac’s total ac and plans to buy the remain- On May 5 last year, Prasac the public offering, with a total ac Staff Co (PSCo), Prasac said through offering full-fledged assets amounted $3.74 billion, ing 30 per cent stake in Prasac listed a corporate bond on the issue amount of 127.2 billion in an announcement. financial services according total loan portfolio totalled two years after the transaction Cambodia Securities Exchange, riel ($31 million). 8 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 9 Business

The retail selling prices of regular petrol and diesel in the Kingdom have been set at 3,900 riel ($0.95) and 3,550 riel per litre for June 16-30. HONG MENEA Jab drives fuel domestic rise in petrol prices

Thou Vireak plan to increase production to meet the surge of orders. ETAIL petrol prices He told The Post: “Investors in Cambodia have in the oil sector expect oil de- been steadily rising mand to recover, so they will since the beginning stockpile oil. The rise in do- ofR 2021, with experts saying mestic oil prices is related to that widening Covid-19 vac- international rates … soaring cination rollouts have led to a to $70 a barrel now. Usually sharp, sustained rise in inter- importers buy high-priced national crude oil prices. oil, so they can’t sell it to us at The retail selling price of the original price.” petrol in the Kingdom from From June 1-15, the inter- June 16-30 has been set at national per-barrel retail price 3,900 riel ($0.95) per litre of of EA92 and diesel averaged regular EA92 – with an octane $77.20 and $77.84, respective- rating of at least 92 – and 3,550 ly, according to the ministry. riel per litre of diesel, accord- Moeung Sopheak, owner of ing to an announcement from a Tela filling station in Kam- the Ministry of Commerce. pong Chhnang province, said Compulsory for licensed he sells fuel below the prices petrol service stations but not set by the ministry, as an ap- for street vendors, the pricing proach for “more customers, serves as a tool to facilitate even at less profit”. and enhance cost control na- He noted that the current per- tionwide and is calculated litre rates at the station are 3,800 semi-monthly by the ministry riel, 3,200 riel and 4,100 riel for using data extrapolated from EA92, diesel and 95-octane-rat- fluctuations in crude oil prices ed Super petrol, respectively. on the international market. Brent crude oil futures Following a meeting with dipped 41 US cents, or 0.6 some of the Kingdom’s fuel per cent, to $73.98 a barrel at distributors, the government 0400 GMT, while US crude fu- agreed to reduce this fort- tures receded 39 US cents, or nightly pricing by 0.4 US cents 0.5 per cent to $71.76 a barrel, per litre to safeguard people’s Reuters reported on June 17. livelihoods, the ministry said. The General Department of Petrol prices have been Customs and Excise’s (GDCE) trending higher since the start revenue collection plummet- of this year, with EA92 pinned ed 15.2 per cent to $614.8 mil- at 3,200 riel, 3,350 riel, 3,400 lion in the first quarter of this riel and 3,500 riel per litre for year compared to the corre- each of the four bi-weekly pe- sponding period last year. riods to February 28, and die- Petroleum and energy – in- sel pegged at 2,950 riel, 3,000 cluding regular and super pet- riel, 3,050 riel and 3,200 riel for rol, diesel and the corresponding intervals. lubricants – During the first April period, accounted the rates for EA92 and diesel for 22.8 per were 3,700 riel and 3,550 riel, cent of total respectively, according to revenue, the announcement. accord- Nhim Kosol (pictured, Sup- ing to the plied), business manager of GDCE. derivatives broker Golden FX Link Capital Co Ltd, ex- plained that oil de- mand is expected to recover as more people are inocu- lated against the novel corona- virus, and that members of the Organi- sation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (Opec) 10 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com

www.phnompenhpost.com/post-focus social welfare

Field workers use tablets to expedite the process of identifying those in need of financial assistance. supplied The government’s efforts have meant cash has been delivered to recipients within minutes. supplied Instant cash transfer model lessens financial burden during pandemic

government-to-people and properties, and sources of income. cash transfer programme Once the households were using digital platforms has identified and vetted by officers in benefited some 2.7 million villages and communes, money was peopleA during the Covid-19 outbreak then transferred directly from the – testimony to how the Kingdom is National Treasury to the eligible successfully reaching out to vulnerable recipients using Wing agents. groups during this crisis. “We have had the poor household The social assistance initiative identification programme in place providing money directly to poor for the past 13 years, and social households has proven successful, assistance programmes such as cash with some $322 million disbursed transfers for women and children to 693,000 households over a under the age of two. one-year period – averaging “When the new assistance was $30 million per month. needed during the Covid outbreak, we fine-tuned the existing programme Main agenda to make it more comprehensive and “Our objective in this new cash rolled it out. This is what social transfer programme is to reduce protection means for a country, to the burden on poor and vulnerable have the right structure ready, though households, and not to replace income ours was still at an infant stage. lost during the pandemic. “It is an unprecedented project “The package is designed for three rolled out countrywide with the groups – those in Phnom Penh, urban collaboration of many ministries, areas outside Phnom Penh and for including the Ministry of Social people in rural areas. Affairs, Veterans and Youth “This is called a special social Rehabilitation. assistance programme as it is outside “It really was a challenge – we had the regular assistance programme, three weeks to identify the recipients mainly aimed at providing relief for the programme. But the during the Covid-19 outbreak,” IDPoor Card holders are eligible for the programme. supplied independent evaluation showed we secretary-general of the National achieved a 9.8 satisfactory score out of Social Protection Council under the system established in 2006 by 10,” said Narith. Ministry of Economy and Finance the Ministry of Planning – is an The cash transfer programme helped Chan Narith told The Post. ongoing effort to reduce poverty and increase the expenditure level of each The ministry launched the “Cash support socioeconomic development recipient to 87 per cent, otherwise their Transfer Programme for Poor and nationwide. spending would have fallen during the Vulnerable Households during Covid- lockdown period, he added. 19” as a relief measure in June last year Methodology “The money was mostly spent on to cushion the social-economic effects Using existing government-run food, healthcare and clothing, and of the pandemic on IDPoor Card holders. social assistance structures to reach some recipients even managed to save Around two-thirds of IDPoor- out to vulnerable groups, devices some of it,” said Narith. qualifying households suffered a 31 per such as tablets for quick registration Around 88 per cent of beneficiary cent drop in their incomes due to the and verification, and mobile payment households received their first benefits fallout of the coronavirus pandemic. systems to deliver money quickly, the within the same month after their Households with IDPoor Card 1 and ministries were able to roll out the eligibility check. IDPoor Card 2, and people affected by programme efficiently, said Narith. The new method of delivering social Covid-19, including those who have Field workers and officials security is proving a real success – lost jobs or income and could slip involved in the project worked around swiftly identifying genuine recipients, below the poverty level are eligible the clock to identify vulnerable while removing bottlenecks in the under the programme, said Narith. households needing assistance, not distribution of money and increasing The IDPoor Programme – the only based on their income, but on the speed of doing so using digital national poverty identification National Social Protection Council secretary-general Chan Narith. Hean Rangsey housing conditions, family assets delivery solutions. THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 11 World New coating US’ Biden sets red line for Putin over can capture ‘Russia-backed’ ransomware attacks air droplets US scientists on June 16 said S President Joe they had developed a sticky wall Biden delivered a coating that repurposes ingredi- stern warning on ents used in hair conditioners to June 16 to his Rus- trap aerosolised droplets, and sianU counterpart Vladimir Pu- hope it will become another tool tin over ransomware attacks in the fight against Covid and emanating from Russia, say- other airborne diseases. ing he was prepared to retali- The substance can be applied ate against any cyber assaults to surfaces such as plexiglass on US infrastructure. dividers to capture respiratory Speaking after the two lead- droplets, rather than allowing ers’ first summit in Geneva, them to bounce off and remain Biden said he laid down the in circulation. line on Moscow not taking ac- “Droplets collide with indoor tion against hackers who have surfaces all the time,” said North- extorted hundreds of millions western University engineering of dollars from western gov- professor Jiaxing Huang, senior ernments, companies and or- author of a paper on the subject ganisations, purportedly from that was published on June 16 in the safety of Russian soil. the journal Chem. In a separate press confer- “Right now, plexiglass dividers ence following the three-and- are deviating devices – they a-half hours of discussions, deflect droplets. If a surface Putin rejected the allegations could actually trap droplets, then and insisted that the US itself every single droplet effectively was behind a large number of removed from indoor air would cyberattacks. be a successful elimination of a But he acknowledged that potential source of transmis- the issue was “extremely im- sion.” portant” and said the two sides US President Joe Biden (left) told his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin (right) in their Geneva summit that he would not tolerate attacks on US Covid-19 is primarily transmit- agreed to hold formal consul- infrastructure from Russia-based ransomware extortionists. SPUTNIK/AFP ted through respiratory fluids – tations on it. “We need to drop including large droplets and fine all insinuations, sit down at an school systems, police depart- government officials, but is millions in ransom. tail production. aerosols – when an infected per- expert level and start working ments and myriad businesses. being tolerated by the Russian Weeks later, a different Biden has fielded politi- son speaks, sneezes or in the interests of the US and Washington officials say they government. group of seemingly Russian cal criticism domestically for breathes. Russia,” Putin said. don’t believe the Russian gov- “They’re not just tolerating hackers did the same with not taking any visible action The main way to remove these Experts claim that Russia ernment is directly involved, this – they are actively getting JBS, one of the world’s biggest in retaliation, though the US from the air is to open windows and neighbouring countries but say it harbours hackers in the way of US law enforce- meat processors, which paid military’s Cyber Command and to use high-filtration devic- have become the hub of what that should be arrested. ment efforts to combat this $11 million in bitcoin to re- declines to make public any es that capture fine particles and is called “ransomware-as- Assistant Attorney General type of hacking,” he alleged. gain control of its information actions it takes against adver- change out the air at high rates. a-service”, in which differ- John Demers told a conference The subject was ripe for dis- technology systems. saries. To build extra protection on ent groups work together to held by the Cyberscoop media cussion at the Geneva summit Both hacks had significant The US leader said he deliv- top of that, Huang and col- hack and then export a target, group on June 16: “There is after apparently Russia-based economic impact in the US ered to Putin a list of 16 areas leagues came up with the idea of promising to free up blocked a lot of ransomware activity hackers hijacked the comput- – Colonial was forced to shut of crucial infrastructure like using PAAm-DDA, a polymer computers after being paid that is coming from [within] ers of a major US oil distribu- down fuel pipelines, forcing energy and water that are “off which is commonly used in hair off. Russian borders, which isn’t tion network, Colonial Pipe- gas prices to soar, and beef limits” to attack, drawing a red products and other cosmetics to US victims include hospitals, being conducted by Russian line, on May 7 and demanded prices rose as JBS had to cur- line for Moscow. AFP lock in moisture, as the main ingredient of their coating. They applied the substance with a brush to a variety of sur- faces and performed tests to compare coated and uncoated How jabs work against Delta Covid variant surfaces. A coated plexiglass barrier The Delta variant of the coronavirus, Although they represent an essential weeks after the second dose, while the to … 32 per cent for B.1.617.2 [Delta],” captured nearly all aerosolised first identified in India, is a cause for marker, the levels of antibodies meas- jab is 93 per cent effective for cases says the lab study from this month. microdroplets, and 80 per cent global concern with studies showing it ured in a lab are not enough to deter- caused by the Alpha variant. The Pasteur Institute found that a sin- of large droplets, compared to a is more contagious and resistant to vac- mine the efficacy of a vaccine. AstraZeneca shows efficacy of 60 per gle dose of AstraZeneca would have barrier that was uncoated. cines than other forms of the virus. In particular they do not take into cent against cases caused by the Delta “little to no efficacy” against the Delta The coating did not become But there is also evidence that vac- account a second immune response in variant and 66 per cent in the case of variant. visibly soiled after use, and the cines retain important effectiveness the form of killer T cells – which attack Alpha. Data from the British government scientists said it would not against Delta after two doses. already-infected cells and not the virus Scottish authorities published similar confirms the tendency in real-world require cleaning more often than A British study published in the Lan- itself. data on June 14 in the Lancet. scenarios – both vaccines were 33 per non-coated barriers. Once satu- cet medical journal early this month As a result, real-world observations The team behind the Sputnik V jab cent effective against symptomatic rated, the substance should be looked at levels of neutralising antibod- are crucial to measuring vaccine effec- meanwhile tweeted on June 15 that theirs cases caused by Delta three weeks after wiped down with water and ies produced in vaccinated people tiveness – and the first results are reas- was “more efficient against the Delta the first dose compared to around 50 reapplied. exposed to the Delta, Alpha (first iden- suring. variant … than any other vaccine that per cent effectiveness against the Alpha Since it can be applied to a tified in Britain) and Beta (first identi- According to data published on June published results on this strain so far”. variant. variety of surfaces, including fied in South Africa) variants. 14 by Public Health England, vaccina- They did not publish results but said In the UK – where the Delta variant is concrete, metal and fabric, It found that antibody levels in people tion with Pfizer/BioNTech and Astra- the study by the Gamaleya Center, a now responsible for 96 per cent of new Huang said it could be used on with two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech Zeneca is as effective at preventing Russian research institute, had been cases – these findings pushed the gov- low-touch areas such as walls or shot were six times lower in the pres- hospitalisation in the case of the Delta submitted for publication in an inter- ernment on June 14 to reduce the wait- curtains to turn those into “func- ence of the Delta variant than in the variant as it is in the case of the Alpha national peer-reviewed journal. ing period between doses from 12 weeks tional devices” that would help presence of the original coronavirus variant. Among authorised vaccines only one to eight for people over 40. capture aerosolised particles. strain on which the vaccine was Two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech jab – developed by Janssen – is given in one In France the wait has been reduced Many more research steps are based. prevent 96 per cent of hospitalisations dose instead of two, and not enough to three weeks from five for a second required to confirm the coating’s The Alpha and Beta variants also pro- due to the Delta variant, while Astra- data exists to determine its effectiveness dose of the Pfizer/BioNTech and Mod- utility before it can be authorised voked lower responses, with 2.6 times Zeneca prevents 92 per cent, according against the Delta variant. erna vaccines. for use. fewer antibodies for Alpha and 4.9 times to a study involving 14,000 people. For the others, lab and real-world The Pfizer/BioNTech jab does how- “We understood that the cur- fewer for Beta. Previous data released by British tests both conclude that one dose of any ever offer very high (94 per cent) protec- rent pandemic may end before A French study from the Pasteur Insti- health authorities at the end of last vaccine only gives limited protection tion against hospitalisation due to the this concept is implemented,” tute concluded that neutralising anti- month come to similar conclusions for against the Delta variant. Delta variant after one dose. Huang said. “It may or may not bodies produced by vaccination with less serious forms of the illness. “After a single dose of Pfizer-BioN- Scientists agree that the best defence be used now. But next time, the Pfizer/BioNTech jab are three to six The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is 88 per Tech, 79 per cent of people had a quan- against the Delta variant is to get a full when an outbreak like this hap- times less effective against the Delta cent effective against symptomatic tifiable neutralising antibody response two-dose vaccination against corona- pens, I think we will be better variant than against the Alpha variant. Covid caused by the Delta variant two against the original strain, but this fell virus. AFP equipped.” AFP 12 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 13 Opinion Maternity protection: The key to dignified www.phnompenhpost.com

EDITORIAL PERSONNEL Publisher & Chief Executive Offi cer lifefor all women in Cambodia and ASEAN Ly Tayseng Managing Editor Sam Rith Deputy Managing Editor Opinion Phuon Chansereivuth Solinn Lim Chief of Staff Phak Seangly MAGINE you are Sovann. You Business Editor are raising your daughter alone. May Kunmakara When the Covid-19 pandemic Deputy Business Editor begins, your pay as a domestic Sangeetha Amarthalingam Iworker is cut in half. Despite people’s Deputy Head of Lifestyle Desk judgement and serious safety risks, Pan Simala you decide to work at night as a tuk- Senior Reporters tuk driver to cover rent and daily Meas Sokchea, Niem Chheng, Mom Kunthear expenses. You are still waiting for the Reporters National Social Security Fund (NSSF) Khouth Sophak Chakrya, Kim Sarom, to offer some support to workers like Long Kimmarita, Hin Pisei, Hong Raksmey, yourself. Until then, you work hard Pann Rethea, Voun Dara, Roth Sochieata, and bring your eight-year old daugh- Orm Bunthoeurn, Ry Sochan, ter with you in your tuk-tuk because no one is at home to take care of her. Lay Samean, Thou Vireak, Nov Sivutha Even though I am a full-time work- Photographers ing mother of two small children like Heng Chivoan, Hong Menea, Hean Rangsey Saovann, it is hard for me to imagine Web Editor her situation and put myself in her Leang Phannara shoes and those of most Cambodian Digital Team working mothers in the informal sec- Sous Chanthy, Pang Vichea, Suy Sovandy tor. Unlike them, I have the privilege Desktop Publishing of having access to paid childcare as Suon Savatdy, Chum Sokunthy, Danh Borath, part of basic employment benefits. I Than Veasna cannot imagine such daily struggle SIEM REAP BUREAU and many would say I should count Offi ce Manager my blessings. My blessings? Is paid Sophearith Blondeel childcare God given or is it a right PRODUCTION & PRINTING that all working mothers like Sovann Nhim Sokphyrak and I should have? Commercial and Graphic Designer Many women workers in Cambodia Tep Thoeun Thyda, Tim Borith can relate to elements of Sovann’s Sovann works as a domestic worker during day time and a tuk-tuk driver at night. As a single mother, she has to take her eight-year-old story. Like her, these women take daughter with her in her tuk-tuk since no one can take care of her at home. OXFAM their role as mothers and caretakers seriously. Like her, they work hard to maternity protection is more critical still have a long way to go to create made up of 90 per cent of informal HEAD OFFICE provide for their children and often than ever. changes and working environments economy workforce which is Post Media Co., Ltd. for other family members. However, While progress has been made to that empower and protect women accounted for about 650 per cent of The Elements Condominium Level 7, because of their informal labour sta- extend social protection in Cambo- and acknowledge the economic value Cambodia’s GDP. Thus it is impera- Hun Sen Boulevard, Phum Prek Talong, tus, they cannot access maternity dia, informal women workers contin- they offer. tive that the Cambodian government Sangkat Chak Angre Krom,12353, Phnom protection benefits, such as child- ue to be left outside the system. At In light of the immense challenges achieve Universal Social Protection Penh, Cambodia care, that may support them during present, the Labour Law in Cambo- of pregnancy and maternity for all coverage for all its citizens and more Tel: 023 888 161, 023 888 162 pregnancy and maternity. Approxi- dia only provides maternity protec- women workers, Oxfam urges the importantly universal maternity ben- Cellcard: 078 555 166, 078 555 133 mately 90 per cent of women in the tion benefits to women workers who Cambodian government to better efits for all mothers by 2030. It is not Smart: 086 822 999, 086 277 999 labour force in Cambodia are in this have formalised work arrangements align labour legislation and regula- a charitable acts but sound economic SIEM REAP position, making them vulnerable to and contracts and have met the eligi- tions with ILO Maternity Protection policy and duty of care owed to every No 629, Street 6, Dangkum Commune joblessness, debt, poverty, work-re- bility requirements for contributory Convention No 183, which establish- citizen. Holistic maternity protection Tel: 063 966 290, Fax: 063 966 590 lated injuries, and sickness, which social insurance or social assistance. es benchmarks in five core areas: will unlock Cambodia’s trajectory to COMMERCIAL DEPARTMENT reduce their ability to care for them- Unfortunately, most informal women maternity leave; cash and medical achieve its objective of being a higher Chief Operating Offi cer selves and their children. workers cannot meet these require- benefits; health protection at the middle-income economy. James Ong Soon Teck We cannot overstate the impor- ments, as they work in informal workplace for mothers and their chil- I hope by 2030, all women workers, Advertising Department tance of maternity protection. As a working arrangements, and work too dren during pregnancy, and breast- be they domestic or seasonal migrant Chap Narith, 017 996 241 fundamental labour right, it guaran- irregularly to afford to make regular feeding; employment protection and workers, will no longer refer to Hun Channet, 017 578 768 tees the security and health of wom- contributions to social insurance. non-discrimination; and breastfeed- maternity benefits as blessings but Prach Monnyreak, 015 239 293 en and their children and is key to The problem is rooted in gaps in ing arrangements. Oxfam also urges their rights. Keo Puthy, 012 966 605 achieving gender equality and under- national legislation and social norms the business community to support This month of June, please join Paing Patrya, 081 872 202 pinning economic growth. The Cov- and attitudes about the role of wom- women workers better by providing Oxfam and partners as we continue Jessa Piastro, 092 445 983 id-19 pandemic has increased the en in Cambodian society. Like in oth- maternity protection, challenging to campaign for better maternity CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION vulnerabilities of informal women er countries in the region, Cambodi- stereotypes that categorise women as protection for all women workers. Acting Distribution Manager workers in ASEAN to surges in unem- an women in their prime primary caregivers, and promoting You can follow the campaign on the Thenh Rithy, 087 888 854 ployment, domestic violence, unin- reproductive years (ages 25-34) are family-friendly policies and better Facebook page of Oxfam in Cambo- Circulation Supervisor tended pregnancies, and financial overrepresented among the poor distribution of unpaid care work in dia. Every mother counts and all Nou Chanthy, 096 999 2828 Yim Veasna, 015 814 499 insecurity while taking on more because they are expected to perform households. women should be protected, includ- ADMINISTRATION responsibilities to care for the sick more domestic chores and care work Informal women workers like ing those in the informal economy. Admin & HR Manager and to educate their children due to than men, leaving less time to work Sovann are the backbone of our fami- Pich Socheat The writer is Oxfam Cambodia country director. school closures. For this reason, and earn. Businesses, meanwhile, lies and society and economy. They Assistants Admin & HR Manager Nhel Soaphea Financial Director Heang Tangmeng Chief Accountant Sren Vicheka Treasurers Sok Sophorn, Yon Sovannara, Cheam Sopheak, Huy Hamsovannary IT & Networking Vong Oun

TO CONTACT US [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] www.phnompenhpost.com © Post Media Co., Ltd The Phnom Penh Post is wholly owned and printed by Post Media Co., Ltd. The title The Phnom Penh Post in either English or Khmer languages, its associ- ated logos or devices and the contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of Post Media Co., Ltd. www.phnompenhpost.com 14 THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Lifestyle Jelly cake bakery goes digital with online ordering and video lessons

Roth Sochieata

OLOURFUL pastel flowers, a pair of cute bunnies and the name of some lucky per- son whose birthday is being celebratedC in big and bold lettering – all perched on a wobbly square – look- ing both festive and delicious. The texture of this cake might look like that of a sugar-coated buttercream cake, but the KBSH bakery’s cakes are all made entirely of jelly. Once considered just a retro des- sert, now instragramable jelly cakes are making a comeback for birthday celebrations in the Kingdom. This traditional and universal dessert never fades in popularity and only keeps improving in presentation. These cakes come courtesy of Kok Sothyra, who quit her job in the tour- ism industry, turned herself into a pas- try chef and started teaching people how to make eye-pleasing desserts including jelly cakes. “By the end of 2014, I quit my job and at first I opened a modern laun- dry. At the time I had a lot of people working for me so that gave me more free time and I came across jelly cakes while scrolling on my phone,” Sothyra tells The Post. “I saw a jelly cake in a display case with a cute little duck on it. I was impressed and I searched for more information on how I could learn to make them myself and I found some- one in Thailand who gave lessons and I went straight to their house for a one day lesson, one-on-one.” She continued to learn online from Former tourism worker, Kok Sothyra, started her jelly cake shop a few years ago and currently teaches students mainly online for a small fee. SUPPLIED her teacher in Thailand until she mastered the jelly arts. Now that she’s opened her bakery she specialises in jelly creations and so far customers have been enthusiastic about the concept. Most Cambodians are more familiar with cakes made from flour with cream frosting and find her jelly cakes to be a nice change of pace. They are also popular among those who don’t have a sweet tooth but would still like a des- sert option, just one with less sugar. “Customers tell me the taste is deli- cious and one said that their granny loves it so much they are ordering it for her every week now. We are getting a lot of repeat business,” Sothyra says. She founded KBSH bakery (Kiri Bai- tong Bakery Supply House) in 2015, at first only selling jelly cakes but lat- er also offering affordable courses on A birthday cake made from jelly has everything edible and ajustable sugar level. SUPPLIED Jelly in a cup is available in different delicious designs. SUPPLIED making jelly cakes to people who are interested in learning the skills. cover everything from ingredients to doubts about being able to learn ef- session. If patrons want access to all line, the price of jelly cakes starts Sothyra had a lot of people contact- recipes to basic and advanced tech- fectively this way. three jelly cake courses, the price is from $20. Other cakes range from $1 ing her and telling her that they wanted niques,” Sothyra says. She says she typically responds by only $150. Other courses cost $50, to $5 depending on the type and the to learn, but some of them were abroad She also sells supplies and ingredi- sending them sample videos and a such as the banana cupcakes course packaging. and some were in the provinces or just ents that her students might not be trailer that highlights some of the and more “I want to tell anyone reading this too busy with work and household able to easily source for themselves things that her students have created “I teach because I want Cambodians – and especially housewives – don’t chores to travel to her bakery. elsewhere. by following her lessons, reminding to have delicious food that is afford- limit yourselves because each per- Sothyra decided to go online with “The students try things out on their them that unlike YouTube they can able. I also want to share these skills son’s ability is unlimited as long her jelly cake courses, especially now own and then I will be there to help be sure that she’ll cover every piece with women who are considering as you work hard. Anyone can do in light of Covid-19, but she actually them with any mistakes until they of information they need to know running their own businesses. They this to earn extra money to support began offering them in 2018. Her stu- can confidently do it all on their own. and furthermore they’ll have access don’t need to own a shop – all they their family. You need to be patient, dents don’t have to travel and it also Right now I have ten different groups to her to ask questions and get help need to do is make delicious food and though, because food-related busi- allows her to charge lower fees. with different lessons,” she says. any time they need it. then sell it online,” she says. nesses are all about retaining cus- “I just created a private group chat Sothyra believes that Cambodians “If you are still wondering about Out of the ten courses currently tomers over time. Always keep try- and I send videos of the lessons to haven’t quite gotten the hang of on- anything or want to ask questions available, three of them are for chari- ing – if you try once and fail, then try the group. This gives people all of the line studying yet and are still adapt- you can message me anytime. I will table purposes with all proceeds again,” Sothyra says. detailed lessons I’ve prepared and al- ing to this new method of learning. personally answer every message donated to Kantha Bopha children’s For more information go to KBSH lows them to learn at their own pace Some students chat to her before that is sent to me,” she says. hospital. bakery’s Facebook page @kbsh- whenever they have spare time. I trying the lessons and express their The jelly cake courses are $100 per As for the cakes she’s selling on- bakery. THE PHNOM PENH POST june 18, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 15 Lifestyle Thinking caps

Yemeni fishermen moor their boat in Aden after fishing off the coast of Yemen’s southern port city.AFP Yemeni fishermen hit jackpot with $1M find in the belly of a whale or Yemeni fisherman Fares Abdul- full of ambergris,” Abdulhakeem said. hakeem and his friends, the day was “From one moment to another, our lives like any other as they headed out to changed,” he said. “A CROOKED PUZZLE” sea to earn a living in the war-torn “There are those who bought boats, others countryF – until they hit the jackpot in the belly built or fixed their houses. I built my house, I ACROSS 49 Go for ___ (take a nice run) collections? of a whale. built my future . . . the circumstances here are Abdulhakeem related how he was among already difficult.” 1 Campground abodes 51 Cook an egg, in a way 12 “Chasing Pavements” singer 6 Public scenes 52 Road covering 13 Pine exudation 35 fishermen who stumbled upon a floating Salim Sharf, another one of the fishermen, 10 Partly open 54 Brewed beverage 21 “Costa” or “Puerto” follower sperm whale carcass in February, about 26km said the discovery has allowed him to “lay 14 Open-eyed 56 Individualized atmosphere 22 ___-the-mill off the coast of the southern city of Aden. foundations for the future”. 15 “Citizen ___” (film) 58 Fix, as a game’s outcome 27 Give off He said they dragged the dead mammal “We are simple people, fishermen looking 16 Yield 59 Fingernail filer, among criminals 28 “Beloved” novelist Morrison back to shore, where they sliced it open and for our catch every day. If you found your 17 Cut into smaller pieces 64 Sea-girt land 29 Stealthy stealer struck “floating gold”, or ambergris, a rare catch for the day, you thank God. Suddenly, 66 Wine bottle feature 31 Spinal vertebrae 18 Felt sorry about substance formed in the whale’s digestive the Most Merciful gave us this,” he said. 19 Some flock members 67 Socially smooth 33 “Leave ___ Beaver” 68 Lively spirit 35 “With ___ ring ...” system which is traditionally used in making Life is not easy in Yemen, where millions 20 Wild West outlaw perfume. have been pushed to the brink of famine amid 23 Inventor Whitney 69 Work on one’s muscles 37 Common sight in Aspen The 127kg lump of ambergris was sold to an a years-long civil war. 24 Meat cut 70 Las Vegas attraction 39 Arabian bigwig 25 Grand ___ (wine label word) 71 Arid 40 Show faith in (with “on”) Emirati businessman for more than $1.5 mil- The country has been embroiled in a bloody 26 Dawson or Deighton 72 “Don’t expunge that!” 42 Bridge-seat occupants lion – an unimaginable sum for many living in power struggle since 2014 between the gov- 27 And so forth (Abbr.) 73 Shouts 43 “Days ___ Lives” what the UN says is one of the world’s poorest ernment – supported by a powerful Saudi- 30 Platoon leaders (Abbr.) DOWN 48 Responds to stimuli countries. led military coalition – and the Iran-backed 32 Ornery mood 1 Like a lemon 50 Like an infamous Dallas knoll Some of the money was used to help those in Huthis. 34 Castle’s watery defense 2 Large pitcher 52 Takes a stab at need in the community, while the rest was split The UN says Yemen is suffering the world’s 53 Airline-seat locale 36 Sounds of discovery 3 “The Eagle has landed” recipient among the group of fishermen. worst humanitarian crisis as its civil war 55 Like the game, to Sherlock Holmes 38 A wise beginning? 4 Biker’s path rumbles on, with tens of thousands killed, 5 Like some patches 57 Type of angle 41 When to be saved from the theme ‘Our lives changed’ millions displaced and two-thirds of its 30- entries? 6 LeBron James’ birthplace 60 Eagle of the coasts Yemeni fishermen have traditional knowl- 44 Knee-to-ankle bone 7 Apply crudely, as paint 61 “Communist Manifesto” co- million population dependent on some form 45 “___ all else fails ...” 8 Year before A.D. began author Marx edge that ambergris – a waxy substance used of aid. 46 Trompe l’___ (optical illusion) 9 Passover dinners 62 Definitely not good to stabilise the scent in perfumes – can be For Abdulhakeem and the group of fisher- 47 Cold War foe, briefly 10 Expert fighter pilot 63 Salespeople, briefly found in sperm whales, but actually coming men, it is back to the sea. 11 Crook interested in rock 65 67.5 degrees, direction-wise across one is a vanishingly rare event. “This ocean I will never do without. The love for The discovery has transformed their lives. the sea runs in my veins,” Abdulhakeem said. Thursday’s solution “I head out to sea every day in search of “The sea is a better neighbour to you than my daily catch, and on one of those days we a king,” he said, reciting a popular Yemeni found a dead whale. It turned out to be whale saying. AFP

Thursday’s solution

In 2013, a British man was offered $60,000 for a strange-smelling rock his dog found on a beach, which is likely a rare form of whale vomit used in perfumes. AFP THE PHNOM PENH POST, june 18, 2021 wednesday’s results Tonight’s Matches Group e Finland 0-1 Russia Sweden 8PM, 18 June Slovakia St Petersburg Group D Turkey 0-2 Wales Croatia 11PM, 18 June Czech Republic Glasgow Group D Italy 3-0 Switzerland England 2AM, 19 June Scotland London www.phnompenhpost.com/sport Scotland’s ‘wee superstars’ look to become heroes against England

cotland’s return to the “We know if we play to our capa- major tournament stage bilities we’ll give England a lot of may be off to a slow start, problems.” but a visit to Wembley to- If Scotland are to pull off the upset nightS to face England offers Steve of the tournament so far, Clarke has Clarke’s men the chance to write a number of big decisions to make. themselves into folklore for genera- Tierney’s return would be a huge tions to come. boost as his presence on the left side A 2-0 defeat by the Czech Re- of a back three was badly missed public at Hampden on Monday with and without the ball against night leaves Scotland realistically the Czechs. needing to avoid defeat against the Three Lions to maintain hopes of ‘Still got a chance’ making it out of the group stage for Despite never starting a previous the first time. international, there is also a clam- On paper there appears a gulf our for Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour and in class for Clarke’s side to bridge Nathan Patterson of Rangers to against the side ranked fourth be thrown in at the deep end af- in the world, who harbour ambi- ter impressing in pre-tournament tions of conquering Europe for the friendlies. first time. Southampton’s Che Adams is al- But no game means more to Scot- most certain to start up front after land than beating the old enemy. being surprisingly left on the bench The Scottish sides of 1967 and for the opening game. 1977 are still fondly remembered for Clarke is another of the Scot- victories at Wembley in the old Brit- tish contingent to have made his ish Home Championship. name in England, firstly as a player Doing so at their first major tour- and then a coach at Chelsea as nament for 23 years would make part of Jose Mourinho’s backroom the Scottish players legends back staff. home. Never one to get too high in victo- “The English media would have ry, or low in defeat, the 57-year-old you believe the gap is humongous,” has dismissed the reaction to losing said Aston Villa midfielder John to the Czechs as unnecessary “doom McGinn on Wednesday. “It’s up to and gloom”. us on Friday to prove that wrong.” “You have to look only forward, McGinn is one of a batch of proven Scotland forward Lyndon Dykes (right) vies for the ball with Czech Republic defender Jan Boril during their Euro 2020 Group D there is no point looking back and Premier League players in Clarke’s match at Hampden Park in Glasgow on Monday. AFP thinking: ‘If only this, if only that.’ squad that have helped guide Scot- We move on,” he said. land back from the wilderness in in- are hopes Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney we’re always going to be under- believes many of the Scottish team “We said before the tournament ternational football. could be fit to play. dogs, but we’ve got a few wee su- have already proven they can go we need to get the points to get out Andy Robertson has won the “We’ve got a population of five perstars ourselves.” toe to toe with the best England has the group – we’ve still got a chance Champions League and Premier million, they’ve got a population of In total, 14 of the 26-man Scotland to offer. to do that.” League at Liverpool, Scott McTomi- 55 million,” added McGinn. squad ply their trade in England. “We compete against the majority Getting out the group via victory nay has established himself as a reg- “They’ve got worldwide super- Rather than be starstruck by their of these guys week in, week out, and at Wembley would be the sweetest ular at Manchester United and there stars throughout their team so more illustrious opponents, McGinn we seem to hold our own,” he said. way for Scotland. AFP Locatelli and Immobile fire Italy into the last 16 Manuel Locatelli scored a bile scoring for the second Connor Roberts in the 95th row from the first training ses- in another commanding dis- his debut last September. brace and Ciro Immobile add- consecutive game a minute minute. sion we move on,” said Swiss play, having beaten Turkey 3-0 “I hope very much that Mar- ed a late third as Italy sealed from time. In Wednesday’s early game, coach Vladimir Petkovic. five days ago in Rome. co will be able to come back, their place in the Euro 2020 last Roberto Mancini’s side are Russia saw off Finland with a “I spoke to the team and told Lazio forward Immobile once he’s a very strong player who 16 on June 16 with a game to top of Group A with six points goal from Aleksei Miranchuk them there’s a match left, and again led Italy’s three-man makes the difference,” said spare after a rampant 3-0 win from two games, with six goals just before half-time. three points could get us to the attack, flanked by wingers Locatelli. over Switzerland in Rome. scored and none conceded, “The matches are all difficult, next round.” Lorenzo Insigne and Domenico “But I’m proud to be part of Sassuolo midfielder Loc- two points clear of Wales, who some may seem simpler but Berardi. an incredible group and happy atelli put the Azzurri ahead beat Turkey 2-0 earlier. they are always to be played Record run in sight Immobile missed several to be here. Let it continue.” on 26 minutes in the Group A The Welsh downed the Turks and to be won,” said Mancini. The only bad news for the chances to add to his tally, Switzerland had few chances clash, adding a second just through goals from Aaron “Switzerland are a strong Italians in a game they domi- sending a header over the bar with Liverpool’s Xherdan Sha- after the break with Immo- Ramsey before the break and team. It was a hard game. We nated was the loss of captain early from a Leonardo Spinaz- qiri blasting over after an hour, could have scored earlier, but Giorgio Chiellini who hobbled zola cross. while Italy goalkeeper Gian- it is a well-deserved victory.” off the pitch with a muscle After Chiellini’s exit, Locatel- luigi Donnarumma kept out Italy will advance as Group A injury in the first half. li started the move which their best effort from Steven winners if they avoid defeat The 36-year-old Juventus reaped the opener, combining Zuber minutes later. against surprise Euro 2016 defender had a 20th-minute with Sassuolo teammate Berar- For Italy it was a 10th con- semi-finalists Wales at the Sta- goal ruled out for handball by di, who weaved into the area secutive win with a clean dio Olimpico on June 20. VAR and four minutes later and steered across for the sheet, extending their unbeat- “Up to now the lads have asked to be replaced, holding former to the finish off. en run to 29 matches since been good but the road is long,” his thigh. Swiss keeper Yann Sommer September 2018 – just after Mancini added. “We hope that there is noth- denied Immobile and an failing to qualify for the last “There are national teams ing serious, we will see tomor- Insigne follow-up was cleared World Cup. that are ahead of us in the work row,” said Mancini. off the line after half an hour. Italy have now scored two of growth, but in football any- Lazio defender Francesco Another well worked move goals or more in each of their thing can happen.” Acerbi took his place, making resulted in Italy’s second, Nico- last 10 international matches. Switzerland will likely have to his debut in a major interna- lo Barella teeing up Locatelli to Mancini, meanwhile, moves beat Turkey in Baku this week- tional tournament at the age of drive in from 20 metres. within one game of Italy’s two- end to have a chance of reach- 33, with the captain’s armband Locatelli, who replaced time World Cup-winning coach ing the knockout phase. handed to Juventus teammate injured Marco Verratti, brings Vittorio Pozzo’s record of 30 Italy’s Manuel Locatelli (front) celebrates after scoring his side’s first goal “Everyone deserves to be dis- Leonardo Bonucci. his tally to three goals in 12 unbeaten games between 1935 in their Euro 2020 Group A match with Switzerland on Wednesday. AFP appointed tonight, but tomor- Italy gave the Swiss no space appearances for Italy since and 1939. AFP