Friday, march 26, 2021 Intelligent . In-depth . Independent Issue Number 3635 / 4000 RIEL Cambodian rice price up on int’l market N Korea fires two ballistic Thou Vireak a price list compiled by the tonne, up $9 or 1.19 per cent the international market has Cambodia Rice Federation from $756, while CRF listed remained stable due to weak THE price of Cambodian (CRF) on March 23. premium-quality organic orders, which even seem to missiles into milled rice on the interna- The premium soft-cooking white rice as $920 per tonne be declining somewhat,” he tional market has seen a slight white rice variety costs $585 without providing an earlier told The Post. Sea of Japan uptick in the first quarter of per tonne, up $17 or 2.99 per price for comparison. He noted, however, that his this year from end-2020. cent from $568, and premium- Chan Pich, general manag- company’s month-to-date ex- NORTH Korea fired two sus- kingdom says The premium “Malys Ang- quality organic parboiled rice er of rice miller and exporter ports to Europe have reached pected ballistic missiles into kor” brand of fragrant rice is was $585 per tonne, up $10 or Signatures of Asia Co Ltd, 2,000 tonnes, or double what the sea on March 25, in its committed to worth $825 per tonne, up $9 1.74 per cent from $575. noted that price gains were they were in the full-month of first substantive provoca- or 1.10 per cent from $816 SKO cultivars of standard- mild across the board. tion to the new US admin- mekong river in December, according to fragrant rice fetch $765 per “The price of milled rice on Continued – page 7 istration of Joe Biden. The nuclear-armed North cooperation has a long history of using national – page 3 weapons tests to ramp up tensions, in a carefully cali- brated process to try to for- ward its objectives. Donald Trump’s first year in office was marked by a series of escalating launch- es, accompanied by a war of words between him and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Pyongyang had been bid- ing its time since the new administration took office, Covid-19 fails not even officially acknowl- edging its existence until to lick K speu last week. But Seoul’s joint chiefs of palm sugar’s staff (JCS) said the North fired two short-range mis- sweet market siles into the Sea of Japan, business – page 7 known as the East Sea in Korea, from South Ham- gyong province. They travelled 450km and reached a maximum altitude of 60km, the JCS added, and after an emergency meeting South Korea’s National Secu- rity Council expressed “deep concern” at the launch. North Korea is banned from developing any ballis- tic missiles under UN Secu- rity Council resolutions, Myanmar junta and is under multiple inter- national sanctions over its liberates over weapons programmes. Japanese Prime Minister 600 detainees Ruff day at work Yoshihide Suga was une- quivocal, telling reporters: A CMAC official reaches for a sniffer dog in training to detect the novel coronavirus in human sweat on Wednesday.CMAC sTORY > 3 after outrage “North Korea launched two WORLD – Page 11 ballistic missiles.” It had been a year since the last such incident, he added, saying: “This threat- ens the peace and security Two more die of Covid-19, of our country and the region. It is also a violation of the UN resolution.” Tokyo said they came down outside the waters of Japan’s death toll climbs to seven exclusive economic zone. March 25’s launch comes Mom Kunthear The latest fatalities were con- Penh’s Por Sen Chey district. found that the man suffered after Pyongyang fired two firmed just hours after the Min- He tested positive for Covid- from pneumonia and was put short-range, non-ballistic COLOURFUL TEA HE number of Covid- istry of Health reported 55 new 19 on March 16 and was trans- on a ventilator but eventually missiles in a westerly direc- 19-related deaths infections linked to the Febru- ferred from the Great Duke ho- succumbed to damage to his tion towards China at the HOUSE IN RUSSIAN in the Kingdom has ary 20 community outbreak, tel, which has been converted lungs caused by the virus. weekend. risen to seven in just bringing the total to 1,348 with into a treatment facility for pa- The deceased Chinese patient US officials played that MARKET SERVES overT a month after two more 549 recoveries as of March 25. tients with minor symptoms, was identified as a 43-year-old down as not a violation of patients – one Chinese na- The deceased Cambodian to the Khmer-Soviet Friend- residing in Sampov Loun com- UN resolutions, with Biden UP fusion TREATS tional and one Cambodian – patient was identified as a 38- ship Hospital on March 20. mune of Kandal province’s Koh telling reporters: “According died while undergoing treat- year-old resident of Trapaing An examination upon his to the defence department, lifestyle – page 13 ment on March 25. Krasaing commune in Phnom admission to the hospital Continued – page 2 it’s business as usual.” AFP

Don’t miss our Cambodia kicks off largest Special Report concessional loan bidding Inside page 8-9 2 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com National VN, Cambodian officials negotiate exports of paddy Nov Sivutha nam to reach an understand- ing that would allow paddy TAKEO provincial authorities exports through this check- are in talks with their Viet- point, perhaps by implement- namese counterparts to al- ing increased Covid-19 health low Cambodians to transport measures there. paddy to Vietnam through the Separately, a group of around Bak Dey border checkpoint in 10 Cambodian paddy export- Takeo’s Angkor Borei district. ers stopped two Vietnamese The talks have come about cargo boats when they reached as the result of vocal discontent Cambodia on March 24 and from some Cambodians in the demanded that Vietnam open area who complained that the its gate to allow them to export checkpoint is only allowing their paddy before they would Vietnamese imports of grocer- allow the boats to pass. ies into Cambodia with no trade Bunthan said it was Viet- flowing in the other direction. nam’s prerogative as to wheth- Prom Bunthan, director of er to turn this border gate into the Bak Dey border checkpoint, one approved for paddy to told The Post on March 25 that pass through. The discussions the provincial and Angkor Bor- had achieved no results so far. ei district administration and Angkor Borei district gover- the border authorities were in nor Dim Kimsan said he had talks with the Vietnamese side negotiated with the Vietnamese An Sokkhoeurn, Cambodian ambassador and permanent representative to the UN in Geneva. Cambodia’s un office in geneva to address the issue. side several times already about “Paddy can be exported opening this gate so Cambodi- through Phnom Den inter- ans can export paddy during national border checkpoint the harvest month but the Viet- Finland’s rights claim rebuffed and the Kampong Krasaing namese required more docu- bilateral border area. Bak Dey ments from the exporters. Mom Kunthear Finland’s delegate Kirsti Cambodia show more respect The law on Covid-19 recent- is currently a corridor check- “Vietnamese goods that go Kauppi had made the state- for civil and political rights. ly promulgated in Cambodia point where Vietnam allows through Cambodian check- AMBODIA’S Ambas- ment on March 22 during an Sokkhouern said the del- adheres to the principles of only some specific kind of points all pay their taxes prop- sador and Perma- earlier session of the same egate’s call for Cambodia to the rule of law and takes into goods. For paddy, they require erly. But the paddy that our nent Representative conference that was highly cooperate with the OHCHR consideration both the ne- that it goes through two other people intended to export to to the UN in Geneva, critical of Cambodia’s human clearly demonstrated Fin- cessity of the measures and checkpoints,” he said. Vietnam lacked a Certificate ACn Sokkhoeurn, has expressed rights records. land’s disregard for basic real- the proportionality of them He said the authorities are of Origin. Vietnam requires deep disappointment with an “We call for the government ity given that Cambodia has as a response to the Covid-19 trying to negotiate with Viet- this document,” he said. official statement by the Finn- of Cambodia to cooperate with a long and active history of threat, he explained. ish delegation that human the Office of the United Na- such cooperation. Sokkhoeurn said: “This leg- rights situation in Cambodia tions High Commissioner for “Cambodia’s open and con- islation does not aim to perse- continued to deteriorate. Human Rights (OHCHR) in or- structive engagement with the cute anyone, but to shield the Sokkhoeurn rejected the der to ensure full respect for all OHCHR is manifested through lives of Cambodian citizens claims – made following the political and civil rights while the nearly three-decade pres- and encourage the respon- passage of a law and accom- finalising their draft law on ence of its country office in sible participation of every- panying sub-decree to control measures to prevent the spread Cambodia – since 1993, which one in society in the pursuit Covid-19 and other contagious of Covid-19 and other diseases, makes it the longest-ten- of securing public health and diseases – during the 46th and to make this cooperation a ured such office in the entire saving precious lives.” Session of the Human Rights promising example [for future world,” Sokkhoeurn said. He said only the Cambodian Council’s General Debate on actions],” she said. He went on to recount how people would have the final Agenda Item 10 on Technical In response, Sokkhoeurn in December 2020 Cambodia word in assessing the state of Cooperation on March 23. said it was ironic that Fin- had renewed its memorandum democracy and human rights “We note with utter dismay land – which had just lately of understanding with the OH- within the Kingdom and their that Finland refuses to review invoked national lockdown CHR, proving the Kingdom’s voices would be reflected the state of human rights in measures and declared a resolute commitment to ad- through electoral outcomes Cambodia through an objec- state of emergency restricting vancing all categories of human that the international com- Vietnamese boats travelling on the Mekong blocked by villagers over tive, open-minded and de- its citizens’ fundamental free- rights through cooperative UN munity should endeavour to paddy export restrictions on Wednesday. facebook politicised lens,” he said. doms at home – demand that programmes and initiatives. respect. Prison directorate told to prevent Covid spread

Continued from page 1 dealing with new strains. Over the last five days I’ve watched Thom district. The man also Covid-19 infections destroy the died from the virus attacks on lungs of my patients,” he said his lungs despite having been in a recent Facebook post. put on a ventilator. Mech said there was no Health ministry spokeswom- medical cure for the virus, an Or Vandine said last week only measures to assist the that many other patients with body’s natural defences in the disease remained in criti- fighting it off once someone cal condition. She said medical was infected. He urged the specialists continued to make public to comply with all pre- every effort to save their lives. venting health measures in Dr Vann Mech, who special- order to curb its spread. ises in the treatment of pneu- Meanwhile, Phnom Penh monia, asthma and allergies at municipal governor Khuong the Khmer-Soviet Friendship Sreng advised city hall and Hospital, said he has now had relevant officials to strength- one year of experience treat- en security, safety and social ing Covid-19 patients. order at quarantine centres in Mech said he was not afraid the capital. of the virus for much of the Separately, Minister of Inte- past year but since the start rior Sar Kheng has ordered that of the February 20 outbreak the General Department of – driven by new and more Prisons pay more attention to deadly variants – he has be- the implementation of health come fearful of the disease. measures, healthcare and hy- “I am really afraid and frankly giene for all inmates to prevent very worried because we’re now the spread of Covid-19. THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 3 National​ Cambodia keen on Mekong diplomacy across entire region Voun Dara severe impacts caused by Covid-19, Sokhonn said the CAMBODIA is committed to re- member states had resolved inforcing the Mekong-Lancang at last year’s meeting to up- Cooperation (MLC) diplomatic grade cooperation on pub- mechanisms for the benefit of lic health by establishing all six member states. the Mekong-Lancang Public Minister of Foreign Affairs Health Community. and International Coopera- They had also committed to tion Prak Sokhonn reaffirmed tackling other global and re- the stance in a press state- gional development issues by ment on March 24. securing new sources of growth “Let me reiterate Cambo- through the Mekong-Lancang dia’s commitment to reinforc- Economic Development Belt ing the MLC mechanism, so and by promoting synergy with that it can deepen the bonds the New International Land- of friendship and mutual Sea Trade Corridor. support between the Mekong “I am particularly impressed countries and China, in the by the unique features of the spirit of promoting sustain- MLC which are characterised able development, social by its . . . tangible benefits in and cultural ties between our enhancing the livelihoods peoples,” he said. and wellbeing of our citi- Comprising six members – zens,” Sokhonn said. Cambodia, China, Lao, Myan- He noted that Cambodia had in addition to the 10 dogs, CMAC has also prepared equipment for training the dogs in soft and hard skills. cmac mar, Thailand and Vietnam thus far benefited from 55 MLC – the MLC was established in projects that supported a broad 2015 with a focus on diploma- range of cooperative activities in cy, cooperation and support the fields of rural development, between the nations that share community business creation, CMAC mine-clearing dogs the Mekong River waters. water resources, agriculture, Through open consulta- air connectivity, education and tions, Sokhonn said the MLC cultural heritage. had delivered concrete results Kin Phea, director of the in terms of its contribution to Royal Academy of Cambodia’s training to sniff out Covid the socio-economic devel- International Relations Insti- opment of the countries in tute, said the MLC was vital Nov Sivutha in place, pending further dis- CMAC’s experts are highly by Prime Minister Hun Sen the sub-region, all the while for problem solving efforts in cussion with the Ministry of confident. So, there’s nothing in a bid to contain Covid-19, strengthening ASEAN com- the region and would only be- HE Cambodian Mine Health’s specialist officials on that we can’t do. Other coun- which is currently spreading munity building efforts. come more so in the future. Action Centre (CMAC) how to train the dogs with the tries have already used dogs, in the community. The minister noted that one “When China needs water has been training 10 Covid-19 sniffing skills. such as Germany and Russia, Health ministry spokes- crucial area the MLC helped it will close its dams and fill dogs with the skills Ratana said the 10 dogs among others,” he said. woman Or Vandine said she address was water resources its reservoirs and then the necessaryT to sniff for and track were divided into two teams Ratana inspected the dogs did not have detailed infor- cooperation, having led to in- countries downstream will down people positive with of five. They are dogs that on March 24 at CMAC’s Tech- mation on the issue. creased sharing of hydrological experience water shortages. Covid-19. have been undergoing ba- nical Institute of Mine Action Ratana said he had already data to ensure water resources And then if heavy rains fall in CMAC director-general Heng sic training. Other dogs in Kampong Chhnang prov- discussed with health min- sustainability and deepen re- China, they will have to open Ratana told The Post on March that have already received ince to get ready for medical ister Mam Bunheng and de- gional cooperation on emer- up their floodgates to relieve 25 that in addition to the 10 higher-level training in mine scientists and CMAC’s dogs cided to hand over the work gency management of floods, pressure on their dams – po- dogs, CMAC has also prepared sniffing would not be used in expert team to work together to the University of Health droughts and other disasters. tentially causing flooding in equipment for training the Covid-19 tracking. to find all possible methods Sciences to implement the To ensure a promising post- the downstream nations.” dogs in soft and hard skills. “There’s no challenge in to fight Covid-19. project in cooperation with pandemic socio-economic This problem has to be ad- He said preparations were training the dogs because He said this was initiated CMAC. recovery and to address the dressed somehow,” he said. ASEAN pledges to improve transport sector amid Covid Lay Samean heads or trailers and to permit trucks to enter a country for a short CAMBODIA and other ASEAN mem- time. It is hoped that the process ber states are committed to improve will go smoothly and the majority of transport in the region as Covid-19 goods can be unloaded at the bor- has severely impacted the sector. der,” he said. The joint commitment was made At the meeting, ASEAN leaders during the 40th ASEAN Transport have agreed on two documents – the Facilitation meeting via video con- post-Covid-19 recovery programme ference hosted by Cambodia from and the preparation of a special March 23-24. route for traders who are obliged to Kong Sophal, deputy head of the leave and enter countries. General Department of Land Trans- The meeting also discussed prob- port who chaired the meeting, told lems relating to customs, insurance, The Post on March 25 that the meet- transport surveillance systems and ing focused on four ASEAN Frame- legal framework development in work Agreements related to regional support for all modes of transport. Trucks transporting potatoes and mangoes for export​ to Thailand through Pailin province on March 23. Cambodia and other ASEAN transport restoration. Cambodia Logistics Association member states are committed to improve transport in the region as Covid-19 has severely impacted the sector. agriculture​ ministry “These agreements began to be (CLA) president Sin Chanthy said implemented step by step. But due transporting goods in the ASEAN re- been hindered because ASEAN has he requested all countries to facilitate transport their goods. to the problem of Covid-19, the gion remained good despite some tightened internal security. transport, particularly for Cambodia. “So, please share space in the ASE- agreements have faltered a lot,” he small obstacles during the pandemic. “Each country has tightened “Please, Cambodia is a less com- AN framework equally,” he said. said, adding that the delegation had “Bilateral transport is still smooth. crossings due to the Covid-19 crisis. petitive country. I request this be- He said Cambodia is currently un- discussed ways of continuing the But transport from the first country For example, previously, we could cause when the situation improves able to transport goods to the US, transfer of goods at borders and how to a third country is yet to be imple- transport goods in a day, but now it each country will scramble to sur- Australia, China and the EU because to facilitate transportation. mented in general,” he said. takes two to three days,” he said. vive,” he said, adding that highly the Kingdom depends on the ports “We discussed solutions to the He added that after more than a Cambodia Rice Federation presi- competitive countries usually re- of Singapore and Malaysia to trans- transfer of goods, exchanging truck year into the crisis, transport has dent Song Saran said as a rice exporter, served large spaces on a ship to port goods to a third country. 4 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com National

Officials check the health of pigs in Stung Treng province KOICA $7m grant plans on Wednesday. Facebook to boost ICT knowledge Voun Dara in Cambodia,” he said. lic, Bangladesh and Cambodia Education ministry spokes- about digital readiness of teach- A GRANT of $7 million has man Ros Soveacha said the $7 ers in three main categories – been provided by Korea Inter- million grant is aimed at pro- digital access, basic digital skills national Cooperation Agency moting ICT in four provinces. and advanced digital skills. (KOICA) to the Ministry of Ed- “In cooperation with KOI- They asked 23,658 teachers ucation, Youth and Sport for CA, the education ministry predominantly from primary promoting Information and will promote the qualification and secondary schools, both Communications Technology of trainers and teachers in ICT public and private, in mostly (ICT) use in lower secondary at provincial regional teacher rural areas. They found that education and enhancing the training centres and lower 60 to 80 per cent of them ac- skills of teachers. secondary schools in the prov- cessed the internet through The commitment was made inces of Kampong Cham, Prey their own mobile devices, through a virtual signing cer- Veng, Takeo and Kandal.” both at home and at school. emony between KOICA coun- He said through this project, Up to 60 per cent of them Thai pigs slip in via Laos try director Rho Hyunjun KOICA would provide a mas- rarely used email to commu- and education minister Hang ter’s degree scholarship for nicate with others, nor did Long Kimmarita to Phnom Penh to have them the legal import of pigs if they Chuon Naron on March 24. teacher educators, improving they use any of the popular checked for African swine fe- just followed the rules. The project will be imple- current ICT curriculum and file sharing tools to create FFICIALS from the ver,” he said. Bey Vanny, Stung Treng pro- mented from 2021 to 2026 textbook development, and and share information in a Ministry of Agri- According to Phanara, the vincial coordinator for rights focusing on improving the enhancing the ICT education structured way. But they are culture, Forestry pigs were first imported from group Adhoc, noted that this ICT study programme and environment as well as sup- quite proficient in using so- and Fisheries are Thailand to Cambodia through was the first instance of crack- textbooks, developing ICT port the ICT leading schools cial media such as Facebook. checkingO the health of over Laos in order to hide their ori- down over these new import teaching and learning and in the four provinces. Over 80 per cent of teachers 100 pigs currently being held gin because African swine fe- regulations this year. strengthening ICT physi- “This cooperation with KOI- regularly use social media to by authorities. ver is known to be spreading Vanny said he had heard cal infrastructure in regional CA is a response to strength- communicate with others. The pigs originated in Thai- in Thailand. If any of the pigs that people were illegally im- teacher training centres and ening digital education of the “The key to successfully land and were illegally import- come back positive for the dis- porting pigs into Cambodia target schools. education ministry in the Ed- making the digital transfor- ed through the Cambodia-Laos ease they will have to be put from Thailand and Vietnam The work will also focus on ucation Strategic Plan 2019- mation in education is to border checkpoint into Stung down and incinerated rather earlier in the year but traders strengthening and encourag- 2023,” he added. enhance the digital skills of Treng province on March 23. than consumed. in those countries had figured ing leadership, management The Asia Development Bank teachers,” the report said. Tan Phanara, director- He said the truck driver had out that they could bypass and implementation of the ICT (ADB) on March 19 released Soveacha said that before general of animal health and been detained, but the owner the restrictions by passing programme at school level. a research report showing and in the context of Covid-19, production, said officials of the pigs had yet to make an through Laos first. Chuon Naron thanked the that to make the transition to the ministry had continued to had sent the entire shipment appearance to take responsi- “The authorities should en- South Korean government for digital learning, it starts with promote the training of teach- of pigs to the capital to have bility. sure the prevention of illegal providing financial and tech- teachers who need to be pro- ers by carrying out reforms to them tested for African swine Phanara called on all pig importation and check before nical support for this project. vided with the tools and train- teacher training institutions. fever. traders to abide by the 12 permitting them to import “This project will be another ing to successfully lead stu- The ministry continues to pro- “Because the provincial ag- regulations recently enacted all kinds of products, not just new opportunity to improve dents into making the jump to vide training to them by using riculture department does due to concerns over Afri- pigs. We have to make sure that the quality of the primary ed- effective digital learning. new teaching methods and IT not have enough space for can swine fever and that any imported foods and goods are ucation level in line with the ADB had conducted a study in the processes of teaching the pigs, we transported them company could still engage in safe, to eat” he said. context of digital education in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyz Repub- and learning. Wing and City Express Japan partner to make fund transfers to Cambodia easy The Wing-City Express Japan partnership allows Cambodian workers in Japan to send funds home instantly anywhere in the Kingdom to help support their families.

Wing (Cambodia) Limited using any of the more than Specialised Bank and City 9,000 Wing Cash Xpress agents Express Money Transfer Japan in the Kingdom. Co Ltd – one of Japan’s leading “We believe this partnership remittance companies – have will further unlock our formed a partnership to provide financial capabilities, providing improved financial services to better financial assistance to all all Cambodians living in Japan. Cambodians. Through Wing, this growing “The strong networks of population can now send hard- both companies will deliver earned money home instantly instant and secure transfers, to help support their families – which is increasingly relevant and in all parts of Cambodia. to the Cambodian population in “During the ongoing Japan,” said Shrestha Mahesh Covid pandemic, it’s critically Kumar, president and CEO of important that we develop our City Express Japan. cross-border transfer capacities City Express Japan to support the needs of our and Wing continue to use Cambodians can visit any City Express Japan branch to send money home through Wing. supplied community. their combined financial “And Cambodian workers capabilities for the good of the in Japan can now send their communities they serve. money home instantly, even to City Express Japan is a remote village,” said Manu committed to providing fast, Rajan, CEO of Wing. reliable and secure remittance There are currently more solutions to customers through than 10,000 Cambodians its global network of agents. working in Japan, and through Likewise, Wing, the this partnership they can visit Kingdom’s leading mobile any ATM or branch of City financial services provider, Express Japan to send money has the goal of providing home through Wing. every Cambodian with access They will receive an eight- to mobile financial services digit code for their families to through its nationwide network Wing CEO Manu Rajan. SUPPLIED use to cash out in Cambodia, of Wing Cash Xpress agents. City Express Japan president and CEO Shrestha Mahesh Kumar. supplied THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 5 National​ Rape victim waiting on justice after Covid delays Khouth Sophak Chakrya to live in Phnom Penh, where she met the suspect and lived A MOTHER in Mondulkiri together as a couple. province has urged speedy She alleged that in late 2018, legal proceedings against her her partner raped her daugh- partner who allegedly raped ter twice while she was away her daughter three years ago. to visit her hometown in Mon- The push for a trial came af- dulkiri province. The suspect ter the court announced post- also allegedly threatened to ponement of all cases in the kill both of her children if they wake of the February commu- told anyone about the rape. nity outbreak of Covid-19 In 2019, her whole family re- The mother, a resident of Putrom turned to Mondulkiri. She said 4 village in Sen Monorom town’s the suspect had been drinking, Romnea district, told The Post arguing, destroying property and on March 25 she had waited for threatening to burn down the too long to see justice done. house on a daily basis ever since. “On March 17, I and some On one occasion, she said the witnesses went to the court to man threatened to behead her attend the hearing regarding daughter, but neighbours had case, but a court official told me intervened and stopped him. all trials were temporarily post- “That was when she spoke poned to prevent the spread of out about what her step- Covid-19,” she said, adding the father had done to her in official did not give a date for a Phnom Penh,” she said. On a roll resumption of the trial. Shocked by the revelations, The woman said her daughter she and other villagers filed a Two young men ride a motorbike trailer loaded with boxes of plastic cups in Boeung Keng Kang II commune in Boeung Keng Kang district on was raped by her 40-year-old complaint with the provincial Thursday. HENG CHIVOAN partner, the girl’s step-father. police in May 2019, accusing the Provincial court spokesman suspect of rape, domestic violence Meas Pros told The Post the and destruction of property. She case was being handled as then petitioned for a divorce. quickly as was possible. Reached by The Post for 2020 domestic violence cases 112 “I think the victim and her comment, the suspect denied mother should understand the the allegations. He said the Kim Sarom cal authorities to arrest their view that they are the head the victim should seek inter- current situation, in which we criminal police bureau had husband for assaulting them of the family and so have the vention from the local author- face high risk from Covid-19. called him in for questioning IGHTS group Adhoc but then requested a release right to use violence against ities or relevant officials. The court will not dismiss the several times regarding the said it had recorded when they recovered. family members. The level of “When violence happens, case, so just wait for the court to case and the court had also 112 cases of domes- “This is the challenge we their education and moral- the victim can ask for help from find justice after the Covid-19 summoned him several times tic violence in 2020, have seen, partly because they ity remained low while social women’s affairs officials at the situation has eased,” he said. before the Covid-19 outbreak. aR slight increase from 102 the are poor. The women were not morality has also declined. district, provincial or ministe- The woman said after her “If it was true I would have previous year. strong enough to manage the “We can see alcohol [brands] rial level. They have the right to first husband died in 2011, been locked up by the police Mao Mab, Adhoc’s head of family without the husband. advertised everywhere, but seek for assistance, protection she brought her 10-year-old already, not walking free until women and children division, So, she needs the husband to we don’t see acceptable stan- and justice,” she said. daughter and six-year-old son now,” he said. said on March 24 the increase support the family. dards of behaviour promoted could be attributed to the de- “This is why we have seen as much. It seems like men cline in social morality. She impunity and offences per- are encouraged to drink alco- said most cases involved men sist,” she said, adding that hols,” she noted. who returned home intoxicat- the offender would be sent to A report from the Minis- ed and became violent towards court if the violence resulted try of Women’s Affairs said their wives and children. in disability or death. gender-based violence harms Mab said Adhoc had inter- She said the provinces that women physically and men- vened by providing information had recorded the most cases tally. It also poses threat and to police. If the violence was mi- were Battambang, Preah Vi- strips the victims of their nor such as a quarrel, the group hear, Tbong Khmum and rights and freedoms. would offer consultation ser- Kampong Cham, with gen- Soum Chenda, deputy direc- vices to resolve the conflict. der inequality considered the tor in charge of legal protec- In some cases, she said main cause of violence. tion at the ministry, said when women asked police or lo- “[Some] men still have the domestic violence happens Takeo Military Police to send drug trafficking duo to court Kim Sarom cating a package of white pow- rented houses in the same loca- der weighing 25.91 grammes tion, they found five big bags TAKEO provincial Military Police and a mobile phone. and five small packages of meth- are set to send a man and a Chanty said the man had con- amphetamine weighing 5,498 woman to court after arresting fessed that he was given the grammes. They also found six them for trafficking nearly 5.5kg drugs by Chroem in Phnom car number plates and confis- of methamphetamine on March Penh’s Por Sen Chey district and cated a motorbike. 22 in Samrong district’s Boeung then distributed the narcotics in Separately on March 24, police Tranh Khang Choeung com- Takeo. The confession led to the arrested 30 suspects related to mune. arrest of the woman in the cap- drug crimes across the country, Provincial Military Police dep- ital. 24 of whom were involved in uty commander Nget Chanty When the Military Police drug trafficking and six were identified the male suspect as searched one of the woman’s drug users. Kimsrun, 27, and the woman as Chroem, 31. “We have already questioned them and will send them to court on March 26,” he said. Chanty said anti-drug provin- cial Military Police had been alerted to the drug trafficking in Samrong district and then sought legal coordination from provincial court prosecutor Chiv Chandara. The operation took place at When the Military Police searched one of the woman’s rented houses in night with authorities first the same location, they found five big bags and five small packages of arresting Kimsrun and confis- methamphetamine weighing 5,498 grammes. POLICE 6 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Business

USD / KHR USD / CAD USD / CNY USD / JPY USD / MYR USD / SGD USD / THB AUD / USD EUR / USD GBP / USD 4,060 1.2567 6.538 109.05 4.1465 1.3464 31.10 0.7608 1.1809 1.3705

Trading Information on Cambodia Securities Exchange Date: March 25, 2021 Auction Trading Method (ATM) No Stock Closing Price Opening Price High Low 1 ABC 16,700 16,700 16,700 16,660 2 GTI 4,100 4,100 4,100 3,970 3 PAS 13,100 13,240 13,240 12,920 4 PEPC 3,080 3,150 3,150 3,000 5 PPAP 13,100 13,200 13,200 13,100 6 PPSP 1,860 1,830 1,890 1,780 7 PWSA 6,300 6,360 6,360 6,300 Telecoms association launched Chinese tourists to May Kunmakara Kingdom slip 86% HE Association of Telecommu- nication Operators in Cambodia (ATOC) was officially launched in Covid-hit 2020 on March 25 in a move to build Ta united voice in dealing with relevant Hin Pisei revitalise the industry. stakeholders and the Royal Government Cambodia Chinese Tour of Cambodia for the development of the CHINESE tourist arrivals to Guide Association president telecommunications industry. the Kingdom plummeted 86 Tea Kileng claimed that Chi- ATOC held its first extraordinary general per cent last year to 329,673 nese tourist arrivals have meeting the same day to start the opera- compared to 2,361,849 in been on a constant decline tion of the association after it was duly reg- 2019 amid global uncertainty since the beginning of last istered with the Ministry of Interior in ac- concerning the potential im- year, and were a notable ab- cordance with the laws of Cambodia and pact of the novel coronavirus, sence during the Lunar New the statutes of ATOC, the association said according to Ministry of Tour- Year season. in a press release received by The Post. ism data. He attributed the steep fall Launched by four founding members – Cambodia welcomed to a substantial decrease in Smart Axiata Co Ltd (Smart), CamGSM Co 1,306,143 international tour- flight routes and a general re- Ltd (Cellcard), Viettel (Cambodia) Pte Ltd ists in 2020, down by 80.2 per luctance to travel amid con- (Metfone) and South East Asia Telecom cent from 6,610,592 in 2019. cerns of exposure to Covid-19 (Cambodia) Co Ltd (SEATEL Cambodia) The number of active mobile phone subscriptions across the Kingdom’s six operators was 20.5 million The Chinese accounted for infection. – ATOC says it is also open for other tele- as of May, down 0.08 per cent year-on-year, according to the latest official figures. HEAN RANGSEY the lion’s share of 25.2 per Even 2021 has fared no bet- communications operators to join. “It is the first time that an association ernment of Cambodia,” Tayseng said. cent, the figures, obtained by ter, as tourism arrivals to the “ATOC has its main objectives and goals of telecommunications operators is es- As of May, the number of active mobile The Post on March 25, show. Kingdom sink even further to be a representative of its members in tablished in Cambodia. This association phone subscriptions across the King- Thailand ranked second for in the first three months, he dealing with other actors in the private plays a very important role in creating a dom’s six operators was 20,481,051, down tourist arrivals by country of claimed. and public sectors, sharing and exchang- united voice and point of reference for its by 0.08 per cent year-on-year, the latest origin at 210,876 (down 54.8 “Nowadays, visitors to the ing ideas and information, updating laws members from the telecommunications data from TRC show. This figure is the per cent on a yearly basis), ancient temples in Siem Reap and regulations, raising and voicing con- industry at government and private sector equivalent of 124.09 per cent of the total followed by Vietnam (182,199, province, be they Chinese or cerns of its members, and advising and forums, and acting as a platform for ex- population. down 80 per cent), the US from other countries – or even supporting its members for its business changing ideas and collaboration amongst At the same time, the number of landline (55,973, down 77.5 per cent), domestic ones, are almost operation in Cambodia, and to contribute its members and other stakeholders with a and fixed-line subscriptions numbered just to further development of telecommuni- view to promote healthy and ethical com- 52,480 as of the end of May, slipping 21.62 The tourism sector will need at cation industry,” according to the release. petition and better service to consumers. per cent from the end of May last year. ATOC president Ly Tayseng said the “The mission of ATOC is to promote the The number of mobile internet sub- least another five years to rebound association will play a vital role in devel- positioning of the telecommunications scriptions across Cambodia’s seven pro- and once again enjoy 2019-levels oping the industry in a sustainable way, industry as the major enabling partner viders also recorded a 2.36 per cent drop working with relevant stakeholders, gov- for the Royal Government of Cambodia in to 14,863,435, whereas fixed broadband of international tourists ernment ministries, Telecommunication its endeavour of digitalising the national internet subscriptions across the King- Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) and other economy in line with the direction set by dom’s 37 providers logged a 33.07 per South Korea (55,935, down nonexistent,” Kileng said. institutions in its pursuits. the Rectangular Strategy of the Royal Gov- cent climb to 249,132. 78.1 per cent), the UK (44,784, But Cambodia Association of down 72.7 per cent), France Travel Agents (CATA) president (43,174, down 73.7 per cent) Chhay Sivlin remains cau- and Japan (41,257, down 80.1 tiously optimistic about tour- ASEAN urged to adopt green manufacturing tech per cent). ism’s performance this year as International tourist arriv- the government’s vaccination ASEAN needs to adopt green a hunger for new green manu- play a major role in attracting source use, she said. als by air, land and waterways campaign forges ahead. manufacturing technolo- facturing technologies.” foreign investors with green The deal aims to make the plunged to 756,265 (down 82.8 She told The Post late last gies to make sustainable new With its rich technology and manufacturing technologies. EU’s economy sustainable by per cent), 498,384 (down 75.7 year: “Going into 2021, I feel products and services, an research landscape, innova- The Vietnamese government turning climate and environ- per cent) and 51,494 (down that tourism could recover a international conference in tive enterprises and dedicated needs to invest in improving in- mental challenges into oppor- 67.2 per cent), respectively. smidge if most of the people Vietnam’s Binh Duong prov- green growth strategies, Eu- frastructure and offer incentives tunities, focusing on invest- Ministry spokesman Top So- around the world can get their ince heard on March 23. rope is a major source of such to promote the triple helix mod- ments in green technologies, pheak noted that the Covid-19 hands on Covid-19 jabs. But Dr Michael Braun, coordina- green technologies, he said. el of university-industry-govern- sustainable solutions and in- pandemic triggered a crisis in as travel hinges on the con- tor of the Enhanced Regional For ASEAN member states, ment cooperation, he said. novative businesses, she said. every country, sharply drag- figuration of economic, safety EU-ASEAN Dialogue Instru- green technologies will help Joanna Drake, deputy director It also lays out a path for a sus- ging down international tour- and health settings, we are all ment project, told the “Coop- make the best possible use of the European Commission’s tainable transition that is socially ist arrivals across the board. too well aware that tourism is erating with Europe for Green of their natural and energy (EC) Directorate-General for the fair and ensures “no person or He told The Post on March the most fragile and vulner- Manufacturing Technologies” resources and protect the Environment, said under the place is left behind”, she said. 25 that while the pandemic’s able sector. conference that it is impor- health and well-being of European Green Deal, the EU The EU therefore supports trajectory remains unclear, “I anticipate that the tour- tant to promote technological workers and consumers. recognises that climate change ASEAN and its member states Cambodia and every other ism sector in Cambodia will cooperation between the Eu- National University of Sin- and environmental degradation with initiatives related to country is slogging away on need at least another five ropean and Southeast Asian gapore’s Reginald Tan Beng are a global existential threat. climate-change resilience and Covid-19 vaccination drives. years to rebound and once blocs for mutual benefit. Hee said: “Binh Duong prov- To overcome the challenges, adaptation, environmental pro- “With the world ostensibly again enjoy 2019-levels of in- ASEAN countries have ince is set to become the next the EU needs a new growth tection, and disaster prepared- in a fog of uncertainty sur- ternational tourists.” emerged as important manu- destination for green technol- strategy that would transform ness and response, she added. rounding the spread of Covid- According to ministry sta- facturing hubs in global sup- ogy transfer.” it into a modern, resource-ef- The two-day conference that 19, we cannot yet predict what tistics, international tourists ply chains, he said. Provincial Department of Sci- ficient and competitive econ- began on March 22 is being the [tourism] sector will look visiting Cambodia in 2019 “The growing demand for en- ence and Technology director omy in which there are no held as part of the 2021 EU In- like in 2021,” Sopheak said, spent $4.91 billion in tourism vironmentally sound, resource- Nguyen Viet Long said compre- net emissions of greenhouse dustry Week organised by the adding that the ministry and receipts, an increase of 12.4 and energy-efficient products hensive transport infrastructure gases by 2050, and economic provincial People’s Committee the Kingdom’s civil servants per cent compared to $4.37 and manufacturing has created and quality human resources growth is decoupled from re- and the EC. VIET NAM NEWS/ANN are driven in their pursuit to billion in 2018. THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 7 Business Covid fails to sour palm sugar’s sweet market

Thou Vireak While the company gen- erally sells 20 per cent of its INIMAL disrup- product locally, the pandemic tion to produc- ensured that its local stock- tion chains and piles remained higher than booming de- usual in 2020, he lamented. Mmand is sweet news for suppli- Health crisis notwithstand- ers of geographical-indication- ing, he said demand for the (GI) certified palm sugar. GI product from Europe had Kampong Speu Palm Sugar been on an uphill slope, surg- Promotion Association (KSPS- ing at an average of 10 per PA) president Sam Saroeun told cent over the past 10 years. The Post that the market for the “We still have some stock “Kampong Speu Palm Sugar” GI from last year due to the low product remains strong, a point demand on the domestic mar- made clear by a 500kg order re- ket, but we have found some cently placed by an Indian firm new customers in Europe. – through a broker – for export “We will buy from five to to the South Asian country. eight tonnes [from produc- “Now they want another 10 ers]. We usually export the tonnes of palm sugar, but we palm sugar just after the end don’t have that much available of the harvest, in May and yet due to Covid-19 – it’d be June,” Lesieur said. tough for us to go down in per- Year-to-date, he said the son and drive up production. company had exported five “We’ve yet to respond to tonnes of palm sugar, 20 their request. If they’re look- tonnes combined of Kampot ing for two or three tonnes, pepper, Indian long pepper we’d be able to make good on (Piper longum) and “fleur de it immediately,” he said. sel” (flower of salt). He estimated that about 50 “Fleur de sel” is a type of salt tonnes of palm sugar have been Today, retail Kampong Speu palm sugar sells for 6,000 riel ($1.50) per kilogramme. pOST STAFF mainly associated with the ordered from KSPSPA mem- northern coast France that bers this season for export. risks stemming from Covid- ($1.50) per kilogramme, he announced that it would join province’s Oudong or Sam- forms as a delicate, flaky crust According to Saroeun, 19, making it difficult to ramp said. Kampot pepper in its registry rong Tong districts, or Kandal on the surface of seawater. members can produce 250 up the process. Moreover, The Ministry of Commerce of protected GIs (PGIs), after province’s Ang Snuol district, Palm sugar is a relatively ex- tonnes of the commodity per farmers are worried that we granted domestic geographi- the fruit was awarded the sta- the EC said in a statement. pensive option, Lesieur said. season in December-May. won’t buy what they are able cal indication (GI) to “Kam- tus on February 18, 2016. Sebastien Lesieur, general It is sold at a retail price of He said KSPSPA’s 10 member to produce. pong Speu Palm Sugar” in 2010 Any product sold in EU manager of palm sugar ex- around €10-15 ($11.80-17.70) companies exported a total of “I urge them to keep making under the World Trade Organi- countries purporting to be porter Farm Link Ltd, told The per kilogramme in Europe, 70 tonnes in 2020 to 15 coun- palm sugar as usual and we’ll sation’s (WTO) agreement on “Skor Thnot Kampong Speu”, Post in December that that the whereas the cane variety costs tries in Asia and Europe. go buy it all once the Covid- Trade-Related Aspects of Intel- as it was registered, must car- market would rebound in 2021, just €1-2. He said: “Palm sugar has a 19 situation improves.” lectual Property Rights. ry the “EU PGI logo” which after a year of nonexistent do- “It is an amazing product – stronger market than before, Today, retail Kampong Speu And on April 2, 2019, the certifies that it originates mestic demand amid Covid-19 natural, not refined and good but our production faces palm sugar sells for 6,000 riel European Commission (EC) from either Kampong Speu left it on tenterhooks. for your health,” he noted.

The Kingdom exported 690,829 tonnes of milled rice, up 11.40 per cent over 2019. pOST STAFF Milled-rice exports set to keep pace with 2020 performance: exporter Continued from page 1 the leading market for Cam- bodian milled rice in the first February. two months of 2021, absorb- “In my personal opinion, I ing 37,630 tonnes or a market think Cambodia’s milled-rice share of 49.37 per cent. exports will fail to outperform Shipments to 18 of the EU’s 27 last year’s – they’ll be on par nations, ASEAN and other des- though,” he said. tinations – including Gabon, According to Pich, it now Australia, the UK and New Zea- costs $4,000-$5,000 to ship a land – reached 18,996 tonnes, 20-foot container – the stan- 6,229 tonnes and 13,367 tonnes, dard for milled-rice exports respectively, accounting for – to Europe, surging $800- 24.91 per cent, eight per cent $1,000 from end-2020. and 18 per cent of total milled- According to CRF data, the rice exports for the period. Kingdom exported 76,222 Last year, the Kingdom tonnes of milled rice worth exported 690,829 tonnes of $64.53 million in January-Feb- milled rice worth nearly $539 ruary, down 44.16 per cent on million, marking an 11.40 a yearly basis, a drop the fed- per cent surge in volume eration blamed squarely on the from 2019, according to CRF. “nearly 500 per cent” jump in Chinese-bound shipments of shipping costs from 2019 levels. the commodity weighed in at Mainland China, Hong 289,439 tonnes, accounting Kong and Macau remained for 41.90 per cent. 8 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Special​​ Reporteport R Largest-ever concessional loan bidding kicks off as Covid-19 cases spike Rising cases and deaths are pushing the Kingdom to shore up its repository to buy vaccines, aid vulnerable groups and hold the economy together but can it handle more debts?

Sangeetha Amarthalingam est loans for small and me- dium enterprises. he odds are stacked There is the remainder of against Cambodia if $800 million reserved for the third and com- 2021, which does not include paratively strongest the tax exemption that was waveT of Covid-19 community allowed for impacted sectors transmission spirals out of last year, Soksensan said. control. “[This exemption] can be With the latest event, translated into millions of dubbed the “February 20 dollars [as it] will [be] resolved event” after the first com- step by step. We are actively munally transmitted case working on that,” he added. this year, the urgency to pro- The move seems to reflect cure vaccines and fight the the anxiety on the part of the scourge of the pandemic has government after the latest sparked the first round of wave brought an otherwise re- concessional loans of $500 covering economy to a crawl. million this year. While it undeniably evoked The sum to be sought from a sense of dread and gloom bilateral and multilateral de- in the population because of velopment partners kicks off its rapid infection rate in the Cambodia’s largest borrowing capital city and other prov- to date at $2.1 billion or 1.5 inces, it also affected busi- billion special drawing rights. ness and economic activities This total borrowing is about as people stayed indoors. 20 per cent of the $8 billion Observers expect the situa- 2021 national budget, repre- tion to worsen as movement senting 4.6 per cent of gross control orders, provided for domestic product (GDP). by the newly-passed Covid-19 Despite the public debt aug- law, are likely to be imposed if mentation, Ministry of Econo- cases continue to rise. my and Finance (MEF) stressed Some provinces such as Si- A doctor prepares Sinopharm vaccination, which is part of an expanding inoculation programme that requires more funds. hong menea that it is within the debt thresh- hanoukville and Siem Reap old of 55 per cent of GDP. have already implemented in state revenue could be of GDP for 2020 from an ini- tres and hospitals grew weary nancial leniency by waiving “We are in process [of ap- travel restrictions to control more than $300 million.” tial nine per cent estimate in over time. penalties on customers until plication] and it complies the spread. He said the government has May that year. Still, it is too early to judge March next year. with the laws. Don’t worry, In effect, these directives, used its savings from previ- For 2021, a 32.1 trillion riel whether the impact on the With the sudden jolt in cas- we would not go beyond the although necessary, will likely ous years’ economic gains, (about $8 billion) national economy is strong, said Sok- es, the push to get vaccines in [threshold],” MEF spokesman impact economic growth in foreign aid from bilateral and budget or 27.1 per cent of sensan, though he did not deny from producers is obvious as Meas Soksensan assured. the near-term. multilateral sources, as well GDP was declared. that there is a “certain impact”. the government widens the He also reiterated that Cam- According to economist as donations from the private Of that, operating expendi- However, there is no “spe- inoculation programme to bodia received grants for vac- Dr Chheng Kimlong in a re- individuals or foundations. ture or current expenditure cific agenda” to modify the include factory workers and cines from China and Australia, corded interview with Khmer External borrowings, to some would swallow up 18.8 tril- economic growth rate for the foreign diplomats. and is procuring some doses news portal ThmeyThmey, extent, might not be ruled out lion riel while 13.3 trillion riel first half of 2021. But with a small fund to buy via World Health Organisa- some $250 to $280 million of or overlooked, depending on has been set aside for capital For now, GDP growth is pre- vaccines, including some $70 tion’s Covid-19 Vaccines Global state revenue has been lost the level of attractiveness over expenditure. dicted at 3.5 per cent in 2021 million donation from the pub- Access (COVAX) Facility. due to the economic fallout interest rates,he noted. Barring tax revenue, which or around $30 billion after a lic and friendly nations, Cam- In March last year, the gov- since February 20, resulting “All in all, the current budget only grew four per cent to record contraction of 3.1 per bodia has to rely on doses via ernment allocated a maxi- in business closures and pro- deficits have to be financed $2.9 billion in 2020 compared cent last year while inflation the COVAX Facility and the gen- mum sum of $2 billion for the duction and trade disruption. to fulfill the needs of current to stronger growths in previ- is likely to hit a five-year high erosity of vaccine producers. Covid-19 stimulus fund which His rough calculation is and capital expenditures, ous years, it was apparent of 3.1 per cent on the back of So far, 600,000 doses of was raised by rationalising the based on the wipe out of 40 particularly the expenditure that external funds were criti- rising crude oil prices. state-owned China National national budget, including to 50 per cent of monthly on Covid-19,” Kimlong said. cal to supplement the budget Current account deficit Pharmaceutical Group Corp’s cutbacks on official trips over- revenue collection since last Based on MEF data, budget through the pandemic. would marginally ease to 17.3 Sinopharm were donated seas, and public donation. month. deficit is forecast to widen to As of March 25, 2021, Cam- per cent from 17.6 per cent while 324,000 Covishield dos- Eighty per cent of $1.2 bil- “It is a humble estimate,” nearly 10 per cent of GDP in bodia recorded 1,872 cases on the account of economic es, manufactured by AstraZen- lion for Covid-19 formed cash he later clarified to The Post. 2021, possibly the largest gap and seven fatalities, with recovery. eca-licensed Serum Institute outlays for ID-poor house- “[But] if this [transmission] in 20 years. 1,056 persons recovered. In the meantime, measures of India, came via the COVAX. holds and unemployed gar- is not effectively controlled, Last November, the World Schools, entertainment out- to ease people’s financial bur- Another 300,000 Sinopharm ment and hospitality sector and [persists] into the next Bank narrowed its fiscal defi- lets, and gyms remain shut den remain in place with the doses and the remaining Co- workers, as well as low-inter- few months or longer, losses cit projection to 5.6 per cent while strictly guarded-quar- loan repayment moratorium vishield 770,000-odd doses antine centres and residential extended till June 30, 2021. (out of 1.1 million via COVAX) buildings, that were found to Housing developers have are expected by April. have recorded coronavirus also been requested by the To speed up the vaccina- cases, as well as testing cen- government to consider fi- tion programme under pres-

Source: Cambodia Public Debt Statistical Bulletin, as of June 30, 2020 (Ministry of Economy & Finance) Source: Cambodia Public Debt Statistical Bulletin, as of June 30, 2020 (Ministry of Economy & Finance) THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 9 Special​​ Report ent circumstances, Cambodia might have been around $15.5 while keeping the economy in has also purchased 1.5 million million to $44.6 million. check, is putting more stress CoronaVac doses from Beijing- In any case, the govern- on the balance sheet. based Sinovac Biotech Ltd, ment’s vaccine procurement Plans to maintain tax reve- which will arrive this week. plan involves 11 million dos- nue collection with no mercy It is unclear what the total es, seven million of which is on deadline extension for tax value of the deal could be, as being requested via COVAX. declaration indicates that this it would have been borne out It aims to vaccinate 10 mil- income segment cannot be of closed-door negotiations lion people, nearly two thirds compromised. between both parties and the of the population at some Therefore, it falls on external fact that vaccine prices varied point, although this is depen- public funding to prop up the nation to nation. dent on the pace of delivery, budget. That being said, foreign Though it should noted that which is beholden to a global- financing has been expand- based on Reuters reports found supply pressure. ing in past years, although it on Unicef’s Vaccine Market To date, the Bloomberg dropped to $1.3 billion in 2019 Dashboard, the cost for one Covid-19 vaccine tracker from $1.8 billion in 2018. CoronaVac dose in four coun- showed that some 296,149 For 2021, projected foreign tries ranged between $10.30 doses have been administered funding of $2.1 billion is the and $29.75, the top-end price in Cambodia, which only record highest, following found in China. makes up 0.9 per cent of the plans to raise $2 billion from To give an idea of this deal’s population, although 0.4 per international development purchase value, a back of the cent are fully vaccinated. partners in 2020. Source: Cambodia Public Debt Statistical Bulletin, as of June 30, 2020 (Ministry of Economy & Finance) envelope calculation would With cases piling up, the It is not known what the show that the total value race to get more vaccines total debt for the fiscal year 2020 is as official data is not institutions have warned of an becoming concerned”. yet available. impending debt crisis as gov- The theoretical assumption However, concessional loans ernments take on more borrow- of a debt threshold for a de- for the first six months ended ing to fund stimulus policies on veloping economy should be June 30, 2020 (6M20) stood at the face of the pandemic. no more than 60 per cent of $479.1 million, down 5.1 per It is no different with Cam- real GDP, he explained. cent from $504.7 million in the bodia. “The government may It can be slightly more, corresponding period in 2019, end up borrowing more than granted that debt servicing is MEF statistics revealed. the amount it borrowed last faster or more credible. While Cambodia has made a year to finance current and “As Cambodian economy total debt service payment of capital expenditure,” said has graduated to lower middle $1.8 billion between 1993 and Kimlong, who is vice presi- income status, that threshold June 30, 2020, its cumulative dent of Asian Vision Institute, should be raised slightly. In 2019, outstanding debt as of June an independent think tank. [external] debt level was about 30, 2020 stood $7.9 billion. “It is normal that the [loan 45 per cent of GDP,” he said. Its present value of total size] grows bigger every year.” What it essentially means is public debt to GDP was 23 per While it is necessary to fuel that it remains safe for Cambo- cent, which accordingly is be- growth, the question is if dia to continue borrowing from low the 55 per cent threshold. Cambodia is heading towards external sources until the time It should, however, be men- a debt crisis, which Kimlong comes when it needs to pause tioned that the loans are highly quickly dismissed. and contemplate its next move. concessional with an average “It is not up to the point “[And so] it is very unlikely grant element of 56 per cent. of worry, as yet,” he said, al- that the country will run the Nevertheless, in the past few though “it is hard to say ex- risk of a debt crisis in the near Source: Cambodia Public Debt Statistical Bulletin, as of June 30, 2020 (Ministry of Economy & Finance) months, international financial actly” when one should “start future,” he mused. 10 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com World Jailed Kremlin EU leaders seek to build on critic’s ‘health ebbing, lawyers improving ties with Turkey denied access’ LAWYERS for jailed Kremlin critic U leaders will on March Alexei Navalny sounded the alarm on 25 consider diplomatic and March 24 over the politician’s dete- economic incentives to en- riorating health in prison and courage strategic southeast- demanded immediate access, saying ernE neighbour Turkey to continue he complained of back pain and leg improving often fraught ties with the numbness. EU and promote stability. In August, President Vladimir Putin’s Relations with Ankara are on the ta- most prominent critic survived a ble at a video summit of the 27 EU na- near-fatal poisoning with Novichok, a tions as the bloc plots a way forward military-grade nerve agent, and was after an alarming spike in tensions flown to Germany for treatment. last year over Turkey’s gas exploration The 44-year-old was arrested upon in the eastern Mediterranean. his return to Russia in January and was European Council president sentenced to two-and-a-half-years in Charles Michel, who chairs the meet- jail the following month. He is serving ing, said the bloc want to step up “en- his sentence outside Moscow, in a penal gagement with Turkey in a phased, colony notorious for harsh discipline. conditional and reversible manner”. Navalny’s lawyer Olga Mikhailova said The EU is trying to build on re- on March 24 he had recently been com- cent conciliatory moves from Turk- plaining of strong back pain, adding that ish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan his leg has gone numb this week. and has put sanctions over drilling The opposition politician had seen in Cypriot waters on hold. a neurologist but the doctor had not Brussels has been encouraged by said what was wrong with him, the resumption of talks with Greece Mikhailova said, adding that Navalny over a disputed maritime border and had simply been given ibuprofen. by plans to restart UN peace efforts Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan gestures as he joins a video conference call with the EU Commission President and EU “That’s all his treatment,” she said, for divided EU member state Cyprus. Council President in Brussels on March 19. POOL/AFP adding that the painkiller did not But there are deep concerns over help, while his leg went numb on Ankara’s recent moves to shut down ‘All options on table’ newed sanctions from the EU if Tur- “But if there is any backsliding March 23. an opposition party and its de- EU members are divided over the key backtracks, “to defend its inter- then he will defeat his interests.” “I don’t know what’s wrong with parture from a treaty on violence approach to Turkey, with Cyprus, ests and those of its member states”. A report by EU foreign policy chief him. He should be seen by a proper against women. Greece and France urging a tough A European diplomat said the draft Josep Borrell laid out the options to doctor,” she said. Italian Prime Minister Mario line while others, led by economic was criticised as too soft by Cyprus leaders, and said the bloc could look Mikhailova said she was not allowed Draghi told lawmakers that the EU powerhouse Germany, take a softer and wrangling over the wording could to target Turkey’s key tourism sector to see Navalny on March 24. “needs to work on concrete propos- approach. see Ankara’s demands stripped out. if Ankara escalates tensions. Navalny’s team expressed strong als for a ‘positive agenda’ that fosters An initial copy of the draft conclusions That would likely go down badly “It is important to keep all options concern. a constructive dynamic, including for the summit seen by AFP contained with Erdogan who called for “con- on the table in case required,” Bor- The opposition politician’s right- in terms of regional stability.” a raft of incentives to convince Erdo- crete results” from the summit in a rell said after a meeting of EU for- hand man Leonid Volkov suggested But he insisted on “the importance gan to make good on warming ties. call with EU chiefs Michel and Ur- eign ministers on March 22. the prison administration might be of avoiding divisive initiatives and These included the prospect of sula von der Leyen on March 19. Turkey is pressing Brussels to up- hiding the fact that he had been the need to respect human rights” meeting key Turkish ambitions for The diplomat said: “The EU is ready date a deal struck five years ago to transferred to a prison infirmary. and described Ankara’s withdrawal top-level talks, renewing a customs to open three projects in June – cus- reduce the number of migrants “We don’t know where Alexei Nav- from the Istanbul Convention as a union and liberalising visa rules. toms union, high-level political dia- crossing into the bloc mainly from alny is and why they are hiding him “serious step backwards”. But there was also the threat of re- logue on security issues and mobility. the war in Syria. AFP from his lawyers,” Volkov said on Facebook. ‘Life in danger’ Maria Pevchikh, head of investiga- Armed group aim to protect Blacks in US city tions at Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, said: “The rapid deterio- ARMED with AR-15 rifles and sport- a father of two children who works as ration of his health condition raises ing bulletproof vests, members of the a personal care assistant. our extreme concerns.” Minnesota Freedom Fighters (MNFF), “We believe that Navalny’s life is in a Black self-defence group formed ‘Not trigger-happy people’ danger and demand immediate access after the death of George Floyd, The MNFF was created after the to him for his lawyers,” she tweeted. describe themselves as a “bridge” local branch of the civil rights group Volkov said that on March 25 Nav- between the police and the African- NAACP put out a call for residents to alny’s lawyers would make a new American community in the US city help protect local businesses. attempt to see him in his prison in the of Minneapolis. Chrisman and another 20 Black town of Pokrov, located more than MNFF member Randy Chrisman licensed owners of firearms were 100km east of Moscow. said: “We’re trying to show the world among those who responded. Navalny himself has described the that we can protect our people also They jointly patrolled a main com- Pokrov prison as a “concentration with arms and weapons and be trust- mercial street in a historically Black camp”, saying he was woken up every worthy. neighborhood of north Minneapolis hour at night because he was consid- “Basically we want to change the nar- and had “encounters” with white ered a flight risk and guards recorded rative of Black people carrying weap- supremacists, said another member of him on camera during his sleep. ons,” said the 30-year-old, who has the group who wanted to be identified Last month Navalny was sentenced been patrolling Minneapolis since last only by his nickname, “Step Child”. to two and a half years in a penal summer, when Floyd died while being “We were engaged with the perpetra- colony for breaching parole terms arrested by a white police officer. A carpenter and member of the Minnesota Freedom Fighters (MNFF), poses with his tors of violence,” Step Child, 45, said, while in Germany recovering from rifle on July 28 in Minneapolis of the US state of Minnesota.AFP The officer, Derek Chauvin, was declining to offer any further details. the poisoning attack. seen on video with his knee on the In a mission statement on their Face- the enemy because of our skin color. The members of MNFF are aged On March 23, his team launched a neck of Floyd, a 46-year-old Black book page, the MNFF described itself “When George Floyd happened, between 25 and 55 and from different campaign seeking Navalny’s release man, for nearly nine minutes. as “an elite security unit dedicated to that’s when we knew for a fact that backgrounds. They include a truck and announced plans to stage what Chauvin is currently on trial charged protect the citizens and businesses of we had to protect the community. driver, a basketball coach and a real they said would be “modern Russia’s with murder and manslaughter and the Minneapolis urban areas. “We were getting calls saying that estate agent. biggest protest”. faces up to 40 years in prison if con- “Our objective is not to be the police, white supremacists were going to come They have provided security during Navalny’s allies urged supporters victed of the most serious charge. but the bridge to link the police and in and pretty much destroy the whole memorial events for George Floyd to register with the website free.nav- Floyd’s death sparked weeks of the community together,” it says. community. and for anti-racism protests. alny.com and mark their location on anti-racism protests in Minneapolis Chrisman said: “We’re tired of being “They are going to set businesses on “We became an unofficial security an online map. and riots and looting which destroyed looked at as gang members because fire, they are going to break windows. group,” Step Child said. “When there’s a The team said they would set a date a number of downtown businesses we have guns. They are going to vandalise the whole possibility of a threat they would call us for the protest once 500,000 support- and a police precinct. “We’re tired of being looked at like community,” said the MNFF member, and we would lead the march.” AFP ers have been registered. AFP THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 11 ASEAN Vietnamese medics ship off for UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan A new team of Vietnamese Delivering a speech in virtual medical staff is heading to Afri- form, UN undersecretary-gen- ca for the UN’s peacekeeping eral Atul Khare spoke highly of mission to establish a hospital Vietnam’s efforts in UN peace- in South Sudan. keeping missions since 2018. They will be joined by more He said the participation Vietnamese personnel next reflects the strong commit- month. All staff members have ment to the partnership received their Covid-19 vacci- between Vietnam and the UN. nations. The UN official commended The team were waved off on the staff of Vietnam’s Level-2 their mission during a ceremo- field hospitals for their work, ny in Ho Chi Minh City on especially in treating Covid-19 March 23. patients and in sharing valu- Speaking at the event, Deputy able experience in epidemic Minister of Defence Senior prevention and control. Lieutenant General Hoang Director of the third Level-2 Xuan Chien said he appreciated Field Hospital Lieutenant Col- the cooperation of the UN, the onel Trinh My Hoa, on behalf Onlookers watch as a bus ferrying coup detainees is driven out from Insein prison, where they had been held for taking part in demonstrations Australian government and of the hospital’s staff, said it is against the military coup, in Yangon on Wednesday. STR/AFP partners with Vietnam in their honour to join UN peace- deploying the third Level-2 hos- keeping activities, contributing pital to replace the second to the implementation of the Level-2 Field Hospital in accor- state’s and Communist Party of Myanmar junta frees over dance with plans that have been Vietnam’s foreign policy and adjusted due to the impact of enhancing Vietnam’s position the Covid-19 pandemic. in the international arena. The officer said staff com- The third Level-2 Field Hospi- pleted training in foreign lan- tal was established in March last 600 detainees after outrage guages and pandemic pre- year with 70 staff members. vention and control, all They were due to be trans- yanmar freed AP photographer Thein Zaw, 32 was set to be deported. Activists called for a nation- materials and equipment ported on March 24 to South more than 600 – who was arrested last month wide “Silent Strike” on March have been packed, and the Sudan by military aircraft pro- coup detainees while covering a protest – was ‘Silent strike’ 24, and streets were bare in hospital is ready for its inter- vided by Australia. VIET NAM NEWS/ on March 24, in- freed from Insein prison. Thein Zaw’s release came the cities of Yangon and Nay- national mission. ASIA NEWS NETWORK Mcluding an Associated Press He said: “I’m now on my hours after more than 600 pyidaw. (AP) photographer arrested way back home to meet with people held for protesting In the southern city of My- while covering rallies, follow- my mum. I’m in good health. against the coup were freed eik, rows of dolls were set up ing fresh outrage over brutal “The police officer who from the same jail. along roads, holding up tiny crackdowns on protesters. sued me withdrew his charge “We released 360 men signs reading “We need de- The regime has unleashed a – that’s why they released me and 268 women from Insein mocracy” and “We wish for deadly wave of violence as it unconditionally.” prison today,” a senior pris- Mother Suu to be healthy”. struggles to quell nationwide The AP’s vice-president on official said on condition protests against the February for international news Ian of anonymity, before the AP At least 20 children killed 1 ouster and arrest of civilian Phillips said the agency was photographer’s release. There was chaos overnight leader Aung San Suu Kyi. “deeply relieved” at Thein Lawyer Khin Maung Myint, in Mandalay with barricades The 75-year-old was due to Zaw’s release. who was at Insein prison for burning, arrests, homes raid- have a court hearing on March He had been charged with the hearing of two other cli- ed by security forces, beatings 24 in Myanmar’s capital Nay- “spreading false news”, along ents, said 16 busloads of peo- and machine guns ringing pyidaw, on criminal charges with five other journalists ple left the jail at 10am local out over multiple neighbour- that could see her permanent- who were arrested the same time (0400 GMT). hoods, local media reported. ly barred from political office. day and are still in custody. Local media showed images Three people were killed on But her lawyer Khin Maung Separately, Polish photo- of the prisoners on the buses March 23 including seven- Zaw said the hearing was ad- journalist Robert Bociaga – flashing the three-fingered year-old girl Khin Myo Chit, journed until April 1 because who was also arrested while salute – a sign of resistance shot dead at her home in of problems with video con- covering protests – was re- for the anti-coup movement Mandalay, according to the ferencing caused by a junta- leased after nearly a fort- – as people waiting outside Assistance Association for Po- A ceremony was held on Tuesday in Ho Chi Minh City to bid farewell to imposed internet shutdown. night in detention, he said the prison waved at them and litical Prisoners, a local moni- members of the third Level-2 Field Hospital who will participate in the UN In commercial hub Yangon, on March 24, adding that he returned the gesture. toring group. AFP peacekeeping mission in South Sudan. VIETNAM NEWS AGENCY/VIET NAM NEWS Singapore blogger ordered to pay $100,000 for defaming PM

A Singaporean blogger was and ordered Leong to pay him Lee was the target of an investi- ordered on March 24 to pay S$133,000 (US$99,000). Lee gation in neighbouring Malay- almost $100,000 in damages had sought S$150,000. sia over the 1MDB state fund. for defaming the prime minis- “I am of course disappoint- Billions of dollars were looted ter by sharing an article on ed,” Leong, a financial adviser, from the investment vehicle in Facebook linking the leader to said afterwards. a scandal that involved Malay- a corruption scandal. “Whilst I am glad that my . . . sia’s former leader Najib Razak Prime Minister Lee Hsien ordeal has come to this point, and his inner circle. Loong had accused Leong Sze I hope that this is the last time Leong’s lawyer Lim had Hian of spreading false claims that any politician will sue argued the libel suit was about him over the article ordinary citizens for defama- unnecessary as authorities related to the money-launder- tion.” had already denied the allega- ing scandal at state fund He also appealed to the pub- tions, adding that the prime 1Malaysia Development Bhd lic to donate to cover the cost minister had “picked on the (1MDB) in Malaysia. of the damages. defendant when there are Critics say the case is the lat- Leong’s lawyer Lim Tean many others” who had shared est example of the tightly-reg- described the verdict as a the defamatory article. ulated city-state’s government “wrong and deeply flawed Rights groups frequently being heavy-handed and seek- decision”. accuse Singapore authorities ing to silence dissent online. The premier took the stand of resorting to tough laws to Singapore’s leaders have fre- at the start of the trial in Octo- silence criticism. quently turned to the courts to ber and accused Leong of In 2019, authorities intro- take on critics, ranging from making “malicious and base- duced a law against online political opponents to foreign less” allegations, which had misinformation, which media outlets, and insist such undermined the government’s empowers ministers to order action is necessary to protect “integrity and honesty”. the blocking of social media their reputations. The article that Leong shared, posts they deem false, spark- Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, the secretary-general of the ruling People’s Action Party, arrives High Court Judge Aedit originally published in a Malay- ing criticism that it would chill at the nomination centre ahead of July’s general election on June 30. AFP Abdullah found in Lee’s favour, sian news portal, alleged that free speech. AFP 12 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Opinion Indonesia, Spain mark 500 years www.phnompenhpost.com

EDITORIAL PERSONNEL Publisher & Chief Executive Offi cer Ly Tayseng since Magellan-Elcano Managing Editor Post Khmer Sam Rith Deputy Chief of Staff Opinion Phak Seangly Jose Maria Matres Manso Business Editor May Kunmakara HETHER you are in Deputy Business Editor Manado, Padang or Solo, Sangeetha Amarthalingam sambal – chilli paste – is Deputy Head of Lifestyle Desk a feature of daily life and Pan Simala Wis as Indonesian as it gets. Still, cabai, Senior Reporters the chilli pepper used to prepare sam- Meas Sokchea, Niem Chheng bal, is not an indigenous Indonesian Reporters plant, originating in Mexico and Brazil. Khouth Sophak Chakrya, Kim Sarom, In the early 16th century, Spanish Long Kimmarita, Hin Pisei, Mom Kunthear, vessels from the East, and Portuguese Hong Raksmey, Pann Rethea, Voun Dara, ones from the West, reached the Roth Sochieata, Orm Bunthoeurn, Moluccas – Maluku – while seeking Lay Samean, Thou Vireak, Nov Sivutha faster and more direct routes to the Photographers spice trade – clove and nutmeg. On Heng Chivoan, Hong Menea, Hean Rangsey board there were a number of Ameri- Web Editor can foods such as corn, tomato, cas- Leang Phannara sava, potato and tobacco. While all Digital Team important, none of them are as Sous Chanthy, Pang Vichea, Suy Sovandy essential to Indonesian gastronomy SIEM REAP BUREAU as cabai – chilli peppers. Offi ce Manager We came to Nusantara seeking Sophearith Blondeel Indonesian spices sought-after in PRODUCTION & PRINTING Europe, but we also brought new Head of Desktop Publishing foods and spices, which were instant- Nhim Sokphyrak ly popular among Indonesians. This Two untitled manuscripts chart the Straits of Malacca, Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, islands that may refer to Maluku, the island of Madagascar Desktop Publishing love of food and exchange of spices and the smaller islands of Zanzibar and Pemba located off the east coast Africa. These were created by Portuguese cartographers Lopo Homen and Pedro Reinel circa 1519. The maps are taken from the book The Cartography of the East Indian Islands by David E Parry. THE JAKARTA POST Suon Savatdy, Chum Sokunthy, Danh Borath marked the beginning of globalisa- Tep Thoeun Thyda, Tim Borith, Than Veasna tion 500 years ago. they had originally planned to return to 29, in the Moluccas. Portugal will helped to adapt and reimagine Den There is no denying that during the to America through the Pacific, Elca- also participate, leaving old rivalries Kisot in the context of the Moluccas.

second half of the 15th century, Por- no’s bold plan to circumnavigate the in the past, where they must remain. Besides being an accomplished tugal and Spain were the avant-garde world was ultimately determined in The highlight of the programme will writer, Nukila is the daughter of the of shipbuilding and seamanship. One the Moluccas. The Trinidad pursued be the three-day visit of the Spanish scholar Adnan Amal, the author of HEAD OFFICE could argue that the technological the original plan of returning to Navy training ship, Juan Sebastian Kepulauan Rempah-Rempah, the Post Media Co., Ltd. innovations and wealth of knowledge America through the Pacific but end- Elcano. The ship is currently on the canonical history of the Spice The Elements Condominium Level 7, concentrated in the Iberian Peninsu- ed as a wreck in the reefs off the coast way to the Moluccas as part of the Islands, and Portugis & Spanyol di Hun Sen Boulevard, Phum Prek Talong, la at that time made it the forerunner of what is today known as Kastela – journey to reproduce the route of the Maluku, the preeminent narrative of Sangkat Chak Angre Krom,12353, Phnom of today’s NASA or Silicon Valley. Gamalama – in Ternate. Only the Vic- first circumnavigation of the world. the Spanish history in the Moluccas. Penh, Cambodia Instead of trying to reach the moon toria managed to return to Spain. With the support of Aula Cervantes As a response to the works of Tel: 023 888 161, 023 888 162 they were navigating the Earth to The crew enlisted in the Magellan- Jakarta, the Spanish Cultural Centre, Cellcard: 078 555 166, 078 555 133 Adnan, our embassy, along with Aula reach Tidore and Ternate. Elcano expedition was made up of Smart: 086 822 999, 086 277 999 the Spanish embassy has an exciting Cervantes Jakarta, recently published Before these innovations, no single SIEM REAP Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, itinerary in Tidore and Ternate, which in Spanish En el archipielago de la No 629, Street 6, Dangkum Commune vessel had navigated two open Greek, Dutch, German, Irish, British includes a socially distanced flamen- Especieria: Espana y Molucas en los Tel: 063 966 290, Fax: 063 966 590 oceans in a row. Until then, sailing and Malay citizens and while undeni- co concert, exhibitions and a seminar siglos XVI-XVII, the first comprehen- COMMERCIAL DEPARTMENT relied heavily on coastal reference ably international in composition, at the Spice Museum in Ternate. The sive volume delving into the history Chief Operating Offi cer and on hit-or-miss attempts. Long- the enterprise remained distinctively discussion will focus on the Spanish of the Moluccas-Spain relationship James Ong Soon Teck haul navigation across the fearful Spanish. The path to globalisation presence in the Moluccas from 1521 during the 16th and 17th centuries. Advertising Department Pacific had been essentially one-way, can be traced to a small number of to 1663 when there were more than In this book we highlight the long- Chap Narith, 017 996 241 round trips were unthinkable. locations in the Moluccas and the 20 Spanish enclaves scattered across term alliance between the Sultanate Hun Channet, 017 578 768 Therefore, the critical milestone of Iberian Peninsula with Tidore and the Moluccas and Sulawesi. of Tidore and the Spanish monarchy, Prach Monnyreak, 015 239 293 maritime globalisation was the first Ternate on one side and Spain and Since 2019, the Spanish embassy and rescue from oblivion figures such Keo Puthy, 012 966 605 circumnavigation of the world from Portugal on the other. has participated in several official vis- as Sultan Kaicil Zayde from Tidore, or Phon Sok Chea, 012 717 404 1519 to 1522, a truly amazing voyage The commemoration of 500 years its to Tidore and Ternate in prepara- prime minister Karaeng Pattingal- Jessa Piastro, 092 445 983 entrusted by the Spanish monarchy since the first circumnavigation of the tion for this anniversary. In December loang from Makassar, who once CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION to a Portuguese native, Ferdinand world by Magellan-Elcano is an impor- 2020, we took Den Kisot, a wayang spoke Spanish. Acting Distribution Manager Magellan. He died in the Philippines tant milestone in global history but it is golek – wooden puppet show – ver- From trade to maritime technology, Thenh Rithy, 087 888 854 shortly before reaching the Molucca also the beginning of the relationship sion of the Spanish masterpiece Don and cuisine to cartography, the Circulation Supervisor Sea, and after several failed leader- between Spain and Indonesia. Quijote written by Miguel Cervantes impact and importance of the first Nou Chanthy, 096 999 2828 ship attempts, a Spaniard named To commemorate the 500th anni- to Tidore and Ternate. Produced by circumnavigation by Magellan-Elca- Yim Veasna, 015 814 499 Juan Sebastian Elcano was democrat- versary of the first trip around the Komunitas Salihara, Den Kisot was no cannot be overstated. Spain may ADMINISTRATION ically elected to take command of the world, the Embassy of Spain to the adapted to Indonesian, Sundanese have been the point of departure and Admin & HR Manager Victoria, one of the two remaining Republic of Indonesia has collaborat- and Ternate languages by the emi- return, but the Moluccas were at the Pich Socheat vessels of the Spanish fleet. ed with the governor of North nent writer Goenawan Mohamad, heart of this momentous global voy- Assistants Admin & HR Manager On November 7, 1521, both the Maluku, the city councils and sultans and then transformed to wayang for- age. THE JAKARTA POST/ASIA NEWS NETWORK Nhel Soaphea Trinidad and Victoria finally of Tidore and Ternate, to prepare an mat by the ethnomusicologist Endo Financial Director anchored in Tidore waters. While exciting programme from March 27 Suanda. Ternate novelist Nukila Amal The writer is Spanish ambassador to Indonesia Heang Tangmeng Chief Accountant Sren Vicheka Treasurers Sok Sophorn, Yon Sovannara, Cheam Sopheak, Huy Hamsovannary IT Manager Seng Nak, 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 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 13 Lifestyle A colourful tea house in Russian Market serves up fusion treats Roth Sochieata to open up a cafe at all,” she says. Last year, Sokly opened a small F the Covid-19 pandemic has shop near Boeung Keng Kang market you stressed out and exhausted on Street 380 to test the waters and lately and you’re looking for a see if the business would do well. And sweet escape, consider indulg- it did well. So well, in fact, that barely Iing in some traditional Asian des- six months later in January, 2021 she serts with boba balls made from was already expanding to her second tapioca or creamy puddings. location in Tuol Tompoung. These age-old recipes have long The Oun Ouk is the most popular been a part of Asian food culture but of her many desserts. The dish is now these comfort foods are avail- made up of fruit pearls and makes able with spruced up presentations creative use of sweet potato to recre- Cold dessert with pudding, cheese, variety of boba balls made from fruits and vegetables. The prices range from $2 to $10. HENG CHIVOAN and modern twists. ate the pig from the shop’s logo and Another top-seller among the Oun Ouk Master Tea takes tradition- comes with a jelly topping. snacks is the fried noodles with salt al desserts to the next level in terms of The combination of green, orange, and chilli powder. This dish is served taste and presentation, opening their purple, red and black pearls served with a bowl of soup and a separate appeal to people of all age groups with ice, coconut milk and sugar big bowl of fried noodles that have and nationalities who can now enjoy syrup is a perfect mixture and not already been seasoned with salt and the refreshment offered by these cold too sweet, nor too bland. chilli powder and mixed with egg, treats against the tropical heat. Also notable – especially for the morning glory and seafood. Located at #146 Street 155 to the many westerners who live in the sur- You can mix your noodles with the east of Tuol Tompoung market, Oun rounding Russian Market neighbour- soup or eat them dry, however you Ouk Master Tea is a great place to sip hood – is her large selection of different prefer them – and each version, dry a drink and unwind in a comfortable individual-serving sized cheesecakes or soupy, yields a very different fla- seat under soft lighting and surround- priced at just 10,000 riel ($2.50). vour from the other. ed by a colourful interior design. Some of the cheesecakes fol- Before the recent Covid-19 out- The entire shop has an unusual low tried-and-true formulas using break that necessitated mandatory colour scheme of pink, purple, blue strawberries and the like, while oth- masks and social distancing, cus- and green, with velveteen sofas sit- ers are an east-west fusion with an tomers were barely squeezing in to ting in front of pale pink walls and Asian-dessert twist added in such as Sokly’s new location on Street 155 dangling spherical lamps brighten- boba pearls or sweet corn. with the crowds she was attracting. ing up the atmosphere. Their real- Her signature drinks are the fruit tea Now, in the interests of safety and istic-looking artificial flowers put honey and the coffee ktis honey. Fruit Coffee ktis honey comes with coconut milk and a delicious edible chunk of honeycomb public health, she’s doing most of instead of sugar. HENG CHIVOAN people in the mood for spring. tea honey is served with a tray of fruit her business through deliveries via Overall, women seem to most that you can juice into the glass your- Coffee ktis is served with a set of ice, ing about ways to innovate and up- the apps Foodpanda and Nham24. love the shop’s decor – but wherever self. It also comes with a nice chunk coffee, honey and then coconut juice date her recipes or selection of dishes. Sales have remained brisk, however, women go, men will usually follow. of real honeycomb – not imitation to replace the more typically used She says she strives to be original and keeping her staff busier than ever. Along with the relaxing vibe, Oun honey or a syrup mixture – just in case ingredient of milk. Milk is largely UV- is adamant about bringing something Sokly says she’s already got plans Ouk Master Tea serves drinks, des- customers wish to go even sweeter. sterilised in Asia due to lactose-intol- new to her customers whenever she to open more branches once Covid serts and snacks with a classy pre- The taste is appropriately fruity from erance and thereby robbed of most makes a menu change. is back under control and Cambodia sentation at an affordable price. the fruits and savoury-sweet from the of its nutritional value, with a lot of “If I come up with something begins to leave the pandemic be- The owner of Oun Ouk Master Tea, honey, and 100 per cent all-natural. empty calories and fat left over. that has a flavour that is commonly hind and resume its full economic Chan Sokly, says that most people Sokly says she’s aware that today The swapping out of dairy for co- used, then right away my instinct is growth and progress. who visit the shop can spot right people in Cambodia are worry- conut juice along with the use of to make the texture or the presenta- “I want to open another branch in away that most of the items on her ing more than ever about gaining natural honey instead of processed tion really different from everyone Tuol Kork because I’ve been receiving menu can’t be found elsewhere in weight, which is why she uses all- sugars are nice hidden health bo- else’s to make it stand out. a lot of requests from customers say- town, or at least no identical ver- natural honey to sweeten all of her nuses available to Oun Ouk Master “I noticed that teenagers seemed ing it’s too far for them to come all the sions of them can be. drinks instead of processed sugar. Tea’s customers. to have developed a fondness for way down here as often as they’d like, Sokly says she takes pride in her According to Sokly, the honey is Oun Ouk Master Tea also sells bot- meatballs lately. So I added them to so that’s my next move,” she says. cafe being different, and that she better for your health and less likely tled fruit drinks and the prices for all of my snack menu, but I can’t just serve Oun Ouk Master Tea is open from didn’t expect that she would come to lead to the obesity-related health the shop’s many drinks, desserts and ordinary stir-fried meatballs. I fry 8am to 10pm and located at #146 on this far with only her skills in the problems from processed foods that snacks range between $2 and $10. mine along with corn, okra, cucum- Street 155, between streets 440 and 446. kitchen to rely on. are endemic in the west and lately be- Despite the success of her cafe thus ber and shrimp – and it’s been one of Orders can be made using the Food- The 35-year-old owner and former coming a growing issue in Cambodia. far, Sokly says she never stops think- the top-sellers in our cafe,” she says. panda and Nham24 delivery apps. fragrance wholesaler tells The Post about the turning point in her life when she decided to open a cafe. “Honestly, I never pictured myself walking this path. But Covid made me reconsider since my previous work wasn’t going very well at all any- more and I thought about what else I knew how to do or could even attempt to do and I realised that cooking was a skill I already had that could help me earn a living,” she says. “I used to travel a lot when I was working in wholesaling, and I always adored cooking. It was just a part of my life even before I had my own family. When I’d take a trip to Taiwan I would learn to make drinks there or when I went to Vietnam and Thailand I would learn how to make snacks and desserts that I found there. But at The cafe is brightly illuminated and filled with cheerful shades of pink, purple, blue The fried dry noodles with salt and chili powder is almost as popular as the stir-fried the time I didn’t have any ambitions and green. HENG CHIVOAN meatballs. HENG CHIVOAN 14 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Lifestyle Yemen biodiversity hotspot harbours ecotourism hopes

ith its lush land- Yemen, already the poorest coun- scape, distinctive try on the Arabian Peninsula even trees, unique animals before the war, has for years been and turquoise waters trying to develop the archipelago Whome to dolphins, Yemen is hoping into a hub for ecotourism. its Socotra archipelago will become But despite the reassuring words a dream destination despite the and the lure of the pure white country’s nightmarish conflict. beaches, Socotra hit the headlines An aerial view of fishermen in Lying in the Indian Ocean some in June when Yemen’s UAE-trained the water by a boat off Shoab 200km off the Yemeni coast, the southern separatists seized it from beach in the Yemeni Island of four islands and two rocky islets are the government. Socotra on February 11. AFP home to some 50,000 people and The two sides have since established have remained relatively untouched a power-sharing deal, substantially Dragon’s blood (Dracaena cinnabari) by the war that has devastated the dialling down tensions in the south. trees at the top of Dixam mountain in mainland. Socotra is located just 250km from the Yemeni Island of Socotra, a site of global importance While most of Yemen is embroiled the Horn of Africa, and 1,000km from for biodiversity conservation. AFP in a conflict that erupted in 2014 the southern city of Aden where Ye- between Huthi rebels and the gov- men’s government is based. ernment – plus the ravages of the It is famed for its unique biodi- coronavirus pandemic – adventur- versity – nearly one-third of its 825 ous travellers are showing a growing plants and 90 per cent of its reptile interest in visiting Socotra. species are considered unique to Many set off from the wealthy UAE, the island, according to the UN’s which is close to the authorities that cultural agency UNESCO. control the islands. The unique and spectacular veg- Local travel agency Welcome to So- etation, such as the Dragon’s Blood cotra said: “Fortunately, Socotra has Tree (Dracaena cinnabari) with its never been affected by the war dy- distinctive umbrella-shaped canopy namics of the Yemeni mainland. and red sap, has earned it a listing as “No tensions or fights have ever a World Heritage Site. been reported, hence there is no UNESCO says on its website: “So- reason for tourists to worry.” cotra is of particular importance to the Since flights resumed with a Horn of Africa’s biodiversity hotspot. chartered Air Arabia aircraft once “As one of the most biodiversity a week from Abu Dhabi, the agency rich and distinct islands in the world, has received “hundreds” of re- [it] has been termed the ‘Galapagos quests, it said. of the Indian Ocean’.”AFP World’s ‘largest art canvas’ sells for $62M: organisers Work by British artist Sacha Jafri nothing to eat, but at least I had the consisting of the world’s largest love of my parents, schooling, and painting on canvas has been sold for support,” said Abdoune, who runs a $62 million at an auction in Dubai, cryptocurrency business. organisers said on March 23. “The painting was very powerful The Journey of Humanity is split when I saw it, and, for me, it would into 70 framed sections spanning have been a mistake to separate the 1,595.76sqm – equivalent to nearly pieces,” said the former stock trader. four basketball courts. Abdoune also highlighted the coro- Organisers said in a statement that navirus pandemic, noting how it had the work sold for $62 million, double taken a toll on children around the the amount targeted, with the money world. going to charities that help children. He said: “We have to react, so if I Andre Abdoune, a French national can bring my little piece in the puzzle, residing in Dubai – one of the seven I’m happy.” emirates that make up the UAE – bought Jafri had aimed to raise $30 million all 70 segments on March 22 at an auc- to fund health, sanitation and educa- tion in Dubai’s “Atlantis, The Palm”. tion initiatives for children in impov- The work, confirmed by the Guin- erished parts of the world. ness World Records as the “Largest The 44-year-old contemporary art- An employee from the Burapha coffin shop puts wheels on skateboards, made from wood used for coffins, in Bangkok, Thailand on Art Canvas”, had been put on display ist is hoping his painting will spark a March 19. AFP in the ballroom of the opulent hotel, humanitarian movement. and was originally meant to be sold Children from 140 countries sub- in segments. mitted artwork online to be included Casket-wood skateboards for Thai kids “I come from a poor family, and I in Jafri’s creation, which was com- knew at times how it feels to have pleted at the end of September. AFP From a final resting place for the parents to buy one for them since the ming on the bottom. dead to a gnarly way to land a trick; cost of it is really high.” “The procedure of making these a Thai coffin-maker is affixing Bud- In the past year hordes of young boards is almost exactly like making dhist emblems to the dismantled Thais have taken up skateboarding and the coffins,” he said, adding that he walls of his caskets, and transforming surf-skating – likely a consequence of sticks a signature twist to the boards. them into skateboards. most social spaces like bars and gyms “We put the Thai angel emblem and As the popularity of board sports being closed for months at a time the Thai traditional border on the exploded in Thailand, and the price because of pandemic restrictions. board’s edge.” of a skateboard skyrocketed, Anu- Today, bands of young skaters can The first 10 he flips from coffins to sorn Yungyearn decided to breathe be seen cruising through Bangkok’s skateboards will be donated to lower- new life into some of the wooden historic quarter and its universities’ income families – though he admit- caskets he had lying around his open spaces. ted getting them right will be tough. Bangkok workshop. Anusorn’s warehouse has coffins “Some kids have never ever heard “I want to give the kids who don’t with brocade designs, golden lattice of a skateboard before so we want to really have much chance in life an work and even holographic stick-ons. make these casket skateboards as opportunity to skate,” said the But for his boards, he has decided close to the real boards as possible. 30-year-old. to keep it comparatively simple – “That way they could play and smile Contemporary British artist Sacha Jafri gestures as he stands on his record-breaking “I also don’t want them to ask their gleaming white with golden trim- a little bit from all the fun.” AFP painting entitled The Journey of Humanity on September 23 in the Emirati city of Dubai. AFP THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com 15 Lifestyle Thinking caps

The objects from collections of Victor Thomas Holbe at were made in the late 18th and 19th centuries from stone, gem, ivory and ceramics. VIET NAM NEWS/ANN HCM City museums offer new technology for viewing exhibits useums in HCM City are using The HCM City Museum of History was built smart technology to offer online by the French colonialists in 1929. It is located displays as part of their effort on 3,000 square metres and displays more to develop business amid the than 40,000 artefacts. It organises cultural ac- MCOVID-19 pandemic. tivities and art shows on Vietnamese history “ONE QUARTER” The HCM City Museum of Vietnamese His- and culture. tory has launched an online exhibition with 3D The displays consist of two main parts. The ACROSS 46 Coral producer 11 Isle of Man location technology, smart apps and websites with the first exhibits artefacts of Vietnamese history 1 Hit the bottle hard 48 Purposeless 12 Copacabana setting aim of expanding the museum’s activities and dating from the prehistoric era to the end of the 5 “___ In Boots” 52 Inner circle member 13 Offensive of 1968 showcases to the public. Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945), the country’s last 9 Oft-pressed dress item 53 “... yadda, yadda, yadda” 21 Half of Hispaniola “With digital technology, viewers can see royal family; and the history of southern Viet- 14 High spot 54 PC-to-PC hookup 22 Chronicle connections between objects and contexts, Nam and other Asian countries. 15 “What’ve you been ___?” 56 Yours might be pulled by a joker 27 “Hello, sailor!” and visualise and learn about historical peri- The Southern Women’s Museum in HCM 16 Like freakish coincidences 57 Span of some romances? 28 Lacrosse squad count ods and culture through space and time,” said City has also launched new exhibition rooms 17 Dietary, in ads 61 Post-pupa insect 30 “California, ___ I come ... “ Dr. Hoang Anh Tuan, the museum’s director. that use a smart museum mobile app. 18 Set of players 63 Dear partner? 32 Buttercup relative “We are working to build the museum as an Guests can install the Bo Tang PNNB app on 19 Poet T.S. 64 Senate assistant 35 Creator of several Marches interactive museum by using modern technol- IOS or Android devices and explore the photos 20 They’re all over the field 65 “Haystacks” painter 37 Gulf of ___, off the coast of Yemen ogy applications to convey the most effective on display. 23 Sport ___ (all-purpose vehicle) 66 “... or ___!” 38 Opera solo content and information.” When a photo or an object is within one me- 24 “Go on ...” 67 Anonymous John and Jane 39 Luxurious passenger cars Last week, the museum opened an online tre from a visitor, the app will show images and 25 Letters from your folks? 68 Outlaw’s bane 40 Hawk trainer exhibition of ancient artefacts, paintings and information, allowing the museum to provide 69 Bassoon, for one 41 Large fishnet 26 It might go over your head scluptures from the collection of Victor Thom- more in-depth information. 70 Line pair 42 First half of an inning 29 Indian metropolis as Holbe, a French pharmacist who worked in The app also provides information about DOWN 46 Hallucinogenic cactus 31 Exhausted, as funds South Vietnam in the 1920s. well-known historical figures, historical back- 33 Thar-blows link 1 Jewish law book 47 The magic word The objects from China, Japan, India and Viet- ground and video clips, giving visitors a better 34 Sked approximation 2 A narcotic drug 49 Poetic England nam were made in the late 18th and 19th centu- understanding of the works. 36 Major division of geological time 3 “Stormy” bird 50 Necessary 37 Two or more of 36-Across (Var.) 4 Board member, for short 51 Exit, to P.T. Barnum ries from stone, gem, ivory and ceramics. “The smart museum app acts as an electronic 38 Time of great trickery 5 “I’ll ___ a good word for you” 55 With much land The exhibition also introduces antiques of guide in different languages. Through the app 42 Make level 6 Turns over 58 “Forever” Oc Eo culture, a rich culture of the ancient on smartphones or tablets, the system accu- 43 Deep-six 7 Bambi’s father, for one 59 “Out,” to an editor kingdom of Phu Nam which was first discov- rately locates where visitors are standing and 44 Bishop’s territory 8 Chihuahuan hat 60 Created ered in 1944 via artefacts found at sites near Ba displays information about nearby objects in 45 Winter delivery, for many 9 Witnessed in the area of 61 Troublesome child The Mountain, now Oc Eo Town in Thoai Son an animated micro image. It also helps to mini- 10 Didn’t buckle 62 Dairy farm sound District in An Giang Province. mise the work of the tour guide while creating Artefacts of Oc Eo culture are valued as sig- a modern, friendly exhibition environment,” Thursday’s solution nificant historical documents and evidence of said the museum’s deputy director Nguyen Thi a prosperous culture. Hien Linh.

Thursday’s solution

The HCM City Museum of Vietnamese History has launched an online exhibition with 3D technology, smart apps and websites. Wiki Commons. VIET NAM NEWS/ANN 16 THE PHNOM PENH POST march 26, 2021 www.phnompenhpost.com Sport Chelsea owner sues publisher Turkey routs Holland in upset over Kremlin Jed Court

control claims HE Netherlands slumped to a dramatic 4-2 defeat by Turkey in their opening 2022 World Cup qualifier on TWednesday, while reigning champi- ons France were held by Ukraine de- spite a brilliant Antoine Griezmann goal and Belgium came from behind to beat Wales. European champions Portugal battled to a 1-0 victory over Azerbai- Chelsea’s Russian owner Roman jan, but 2018 World Cup runners-up Abramovich watches the FA cup fifth Croatia lost 1-0 in Slovenia as they round football match between Chelsea started their bid to reach the finals in and Manchester City at Stamford Bridge in London on February 21, 2016. AFP Qatar. In Istanbul, Turkey led 3-0 shortly K publisher HarperCollins after half-time through two Burak vowed on Tuesday to “robustly Yilmaz goals and a Hakan Calhanog- Udefend” a defamation lawsuit lu strike, but substitutes Davy Klaas- filed by Russian oligarch Roman sen and Luuk de Jong gave Frank de Abramovich over a book that claims Boer’s Dutchmen hope. he took over Chelsea Football Club at Yilmaz’s wonderful free-kick sealed the Kremlin’s behest. him a hat-trick and Turkey a crucial Abramovich said he was suing Harper- win, though, in a match between the Collins and journalist Catherine Belton two favourites to qualify from Group over her 2020 book “Putin’s People”, which G. alleges that President Vladimir Putin has “Very disappointing result, and overseen a vast exodus of ill-gotten money also the way that result came about,” to spread Russian influence abroad. De Boer told NOS TV. Turkey’s forward Burak Yilmaz (centre) heads the ball with Netherlands’ defender Daley Blind (17) during the FIFA World Cup Qatar Putin personally instructed Abramovich The defeat was a dreadful start to 2022 qualification Group G football match between Turkey and The Netherlands on Wednesday.POOL / AFP to buy Chelsea in 2003 as part of the in- the campaign for the Netherlands, fluence operation, according to the book. who failed to qualify for either Euro TF1. “Qualifying is a long haul and not with a penalty 17 minutes from time, close the gap to Iranian Ali Daei’s all- Under Abramovich’s free-spending 2016 or the 2018 World Cup, but are a long, quiet river, it never has been.” gaining the Red Devils a measure of time record of 109. chairmanship, the club has been trans- one of the fancied sides ahead of the The other game in Group D saw revenge for their Euro 2016 quarter- Portugal’s group rivals Serbia bat- formed from one of England’s also-rans delayed Euro 2020 finals this year. Finland and Bosnia and Herzegovina final loss to Wales. tled back to beat the Republic of Ire- into a giant of European football. France kicked off their title defence draw 2-2, with Teemu Pukki netting “It was important to start with a land 3-2. “The book contains a number of false with a 1-1 draw against Ukraine at twice for the Finns in Helsinki. victory at home,” said winger Thor- and defamatory statements about me, the Stade de France. “It left a bad taste in my mouth,” gan Hazard. “It’s always important to ‘Human rights, on and off pitch’ including about my purchase, and the Griezmann curled a fine finish said Pukki. “I’m a bit gutted we start qualifying well. We were a little Norway stars Erling Braut Haaland activities, of Chelsea Football Club,” Abra- from outside the box into the top couldn’t get the three points.” scared during the first 15 minutes.” and Martin Odegaard donned T- movich said in a statement late Monday. corner in the 19th minute to draw Roberto Martinez’s men sit second shirts with the slogan ‘Human rights, His lawyers Harbottle and Lewis said level with David Trezeguet in fourth Belgium see off Wales in the early Group E table behind the on and off the pitch’ in support of the book “falsely alleges that our client place on France’s all-time goalscor- Belgium, the world’s number-one- Czech Republic, who thrashed Esto- migrant workers building World Cup has acted corruptly”. ing list, with 34. ranked side, fell behind early against nia 6-2 on neutral ground in Poland, venues in Qatar for the 2022 finals. In response, the publisher said both it But Presnel Kimpembe put through Wales but fought back to outclass with West Ham midfielder Tomas Haaland, national captain Ode- and Belton would “robustly defend the his own net before the hour mark to their opponents 3-1. Soucek scoring a hat-trick. gaard, as well as teammates, wore claim and the right to report on matters draw Ukraine level. Harry Wilson scored an excellent Portugal, who defend the title at the shirts when the national anthems of considerable public interest”. The Paris Saint-Germain defender 10th-minute opener for Wales in Euro 2020 later this year, struggled in were played before their 3-0 success HarperCollins said the book was “an had a late chance to make amends, Leuven, but Kevin De Bruyne and their Group A opener against Azer- in Gibraltar. authoritative, important and conscien- but headed too close to away goal- Thorgan Hazard netted in the space baijan in Turin. The Scandinavians sit ahead of tiously sourced work on contemporary keeper Georgiy Bushchan. of six minutes to put the hosts ahead But Maksim Medvedev’s own goal Turkey in Group G. Russia, that was much praised on publi- “We need more accuracy and before the half-hour mark. nine minutes before half-time was Elsewhere, Russia, 2018 quarter- cation by experts in the field”.AFP movement against these opponents,” Belgium’s record goalscorer Rome- enough, despite Cristiano Ronaldo, finalists on home soil, stuttered to a France coach Didier Deschamps told lu Lukaku wrapped up the points on 102 international goals, failing to 3-1 win in Malta. AFP Spotlight on Schumacher as famous name returns to F1

Christophe Beaudufe also add pressure when he opening Bahrain Grand Prix. write his own story.” “His arrival is already a boost “He has forged a shell, he makes his Formula One debut Schumacher, 22, earned his A thick veil of mystery sur- for Formula One, his name is has a good family and has MICK Schumacher’s famous on Sunday. chance by winning the For- rounds the current health of attracting a lot of attention, turned his dramatic story into name may have helped him Mick, son of seven-time world mula Three European cham- Michael Schumacher. and the whole series is ben- a strength,” said Bodinier. to accelerate through motor champion Michael, will drive pionship in 2018 and the For- The 52-year-old has not been efiting from it,” admitted Ste- racing’s lower levels, but it will for US team Haas in the season- mula Two title in 2020. seen in public since a skiing fano Domenicali, the Formula ‘Give him time’ His famous name has helped accident in the French Alps in One boss who is close to the Being a Schumacher has make it easier for Haas to find 2013, witnessed by Mick, left Schumacher family. helped. funding, but the young Ger- the Formula One legend with However, Schumacher has “His name certainly opens man’s longer-term career plan severe brain injuries. been warned that his sur- doors for him,” said Ross seems clear. Now, 15 years after his father name carries extra pressure. Brawn, Formula One’s manag- Mick is part of the academy last raced for Ferrari, Mick will “It’s not easy to be a ‘son of’,” ing director and close friend of at Ferrari, where his father won bring one of the most famous 2016 world champion Nico the Schumacher family, “but it five of his seven world titles. names in motorsport back to Rosberg, who won the Formu- also puts a lot of pressure on Haas and Ferrari each pay Formula One. la One title 34 years after his fa- him, without a doubt.” half of Mick Schumacher’s sal- The hype has been building ther Keke Rosberg, told Sport1. On the down side, the extra ary and, if he proves himself, for weeks. “At the beginning the media attention has the potential to he seems destined to eventu- According to a survey, 35 per attention on him will be even rob Schumacher of the space ally race in the famous red of cent of Sky Germany’s sub- bigger than on [defending and time needed to develop the company. scribers say they will watch champion] Lewis Hamilton.” at the top level. “The name Schumacher is a more Formula One if Mick Since his first laps in karting, “He deserved this promotion. brand, but it is a brand linked Schumacher is at the wheel. the media have always taken He has reached the level of a to the first name Michael,” an interest in Schumacher. Formula One driver by his own Herve Bodinier, a sports mar- Family footsteps He came through the ranks of strength,” said Domenicali. keting professional and For- The German broadcaster has Formula Three and Two shield- “Now we have to give him mula 1 expert, told AFP. based its entire pre-season ad- ed by a management team who time to grow, to learn ... and to Haas F1’s German driver Mick Schumacher drives during the third day of the Formula One pre-season testing on March 14, 2021. AFP “Ferrari and the others are vertising around the German, made it taboo for reporters to follow a normal progression not patrons, Mick will have to who turned 22 last Monday. ask about his father’s health. curve.”AFP