Unisys Corporation today announced that Suncorp Group has extended two long-term business processing contracts with Australian subsidiary Unisys Payment Services Ltd (UPSL). The extensions reflect Suncorp’s continued confidence in Unisys services to provide efficient back-end processing that helps improve the customer experience offered by the bank.
The Suncorp Group is Australia's fifth largest bank and the largest general insurance group by gross written premium. It provides banking, insurance, investment and superannuation products and services to retail customers and small-to-medium-sized businesses.
Under the two contract extensions, Unisys will continue to provide Suncorp’s banking and insurance operations with cheque processing services for a further two years and direct entry electronic payments for a further three years. The services are provided to Suncorp nationally from the UPSL centres in Sydney, Perth, Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide.
Since 2001, UPSL has processed approximately 68 million cheque, direct debit and credit payment transactions annually for Suncorp, hosted the financial institution’s payment system for electronic cheque image archive and retrieval, and provided Suncorp with settlement and clearing services.
Suncorp Bank General Manager Terry Wasmund said: “Having Unisys provide these services allows us to focus on other core areas of our business, knowing that back-end payments are being processed in an efficient and cost-effective manner.”
Rafe Kruger, general manager, Business Process Outsourcing, Unisys Asia Pacific, said: “Unisys is proud that Suncorp has chosen to extend its relationship with UPSL. Through a customised service offering, Unisys has assisted Suncorp to accelerate processing times and automate payments operations over the past eight years, delivering an improved experience to its customers.”
Unisys has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality services, including payment processing and mortgage processing, in Australia and across the Asia Pacific region. Financial institutions that rely on Unisys services include RHG Home Loans, RAMS Home Loans and Australia Post in Australia, as well as Maybank, RHB Bank, Citibank and CIMB Bank in Asia.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Saturday, January 30, 2010
NETGEAR Introduces New Solutions at Consumer Electronics Show To Enable Any Media on Any Screen, Anywhere at Anytime
CES Innovations Award Double-Winner Highlights New Routers, Home Media Servers and Players, and Powerline Networking Solutions to Improve Entertainment Experience
NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, is introducing its newest award-winning products at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week. NETGEAR will demonstrate new solutions in the areas of wireless and mobile networking, entertainment and storage to enable consumers to maximize the enjoyment of their HD digital media, anytime, anywhere, and on any screen. NETGEAR is introducing these new products and other emerging technology solutions at two press events today in conjunction with the official opening of CES.
Continuing the NETGEAR legacy of innovation, the company is a double-honoree in the CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Award program that recognizes the industry's hottest product categories. Winners in the Home Networking category are NETGEAR (MS2110), a home media storage server, and the NETGEARÔStora Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem - Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M), which integrates 802.11n Wireless, ADSL2+ and 3G/4G/WiMAX for dual WAN capability with failover protection.
"Many of the new products introduced at CES are increasingly connected not only to the Internet, but also to each other to improve the consumer's entertainment experience. However, for these devices to connect to each other, it's essential to have the right network in place to deliver faster speeds over larger areas and with greater reliability," said Patrick Lo, founder and CEO of NETGEAR. "Like plumbing and electricity, the network has become a basic, must-have utility. NETGEAR provides the essential technology for networks to run efficiently – and we do it better than anyone."
NEW PRODUCTS FOR MEDIA STREAMING AND STORAGE
NETGEAR offers a broad variety of products tailored to the needs of modern, digitally networked consumers. These include Internet-connected set-top boxes, home media storage servers, and various devices that connect people to the Internet and their digital media both inside and outside the home.
The centerpiece of NETGEAR's press events at CES is the CES Innovations Award-winning NETGEAR Stora™ (MS2110), an easy-to-use home media storage server that provides consumers with anytime, anywhere access to their digital media on any screen. Stora enables customers to access, back up and centralize photos, music, movies and files using nearly any network device, including laptops, Macs®, PCs, smartphones, gaming consoles, networked Blu-ray™ players and HDTVs. A smooth and powerful user interface for both local and remote users unleashes home network content for use on nearly any device, at home or away. Music and photos can be shared with TVs, game consoles and even digital photo frames connected across the Internet. Full 1080p HD, Blu-ray streams can be viewed via Internet-connected set-top boxes such as NETGEAR Digital Entertainers. DLNA certification means new devices can join the party at any time. NETGEAR Stora comes with a 1 TB disk and one extra drive bay that can be used to insert an optional disk for mirroring. NETGEAR will introduce a 2 TB version of this award-winning product soon.
Product details, instructional videos and other information are at http://www.netgear.com/stora. Photos are at http://www.netgear.com/Products/Storage/Stora/MS2110.aspx.
With the launch of the Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100) at CES, NETGEAR is also expanding its family of award-winning digital media players, which already includes the Digital Entertainer Elite (EVA9150) and Digital Entertainer Live (EVA2000). The Digital Entertainer Express is a powerful and flexible digital media player that enables serious media enthusiasts to easily enjoy and seamlessly stream personal digital media collections and Internet content over home networks to HDTVs. The unique technology of the Digital Entertainer Express enables consumers to seamlessly stream M2TS via pre-buffering and play Blu-ray quality digital video up to 1080p. They can also play MP3, multichannel WAV and FLAC files and high-resolution digital photos from PCs, Macs® or Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, such as the NETGEAR Stora and ReadyNAS®. Consumers can also enjoy Internet content, such as Internet radio (over 250 stations), Flickr™, RSS feeds and videos from popular websites. (
WIRELESS NETWORKING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR HOMES AND SMALL BUSINESSES
Connecting the seemingly endless variety of network-enabled devices for productivity and entertainment in the home requires a wireless network infrastructure that provides range, security, reliability, speed and stability of connections. At CES, NETGEAR is debuting three new full-featured Wireless-N routers which share many outstanding features: Live Parental Controls and content filtering to protect any device on the network; multiple SSID capability for setting up guest networks; Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), VPN (Virtual Private Network) pass-through and Denial of Service protection; automatic Quality of Service for reliable video, voice and gaming; a broadband usage meter; and energy-saving on/off switches for both power and Wi-Fi®.
Two of the new routers are compatible with high-speed 3G/4G/WiMAX cellular networks and can be used as a primary Internet connection in situations where no connection to a DSL, cable, fiber, or satellite network exists, making them ideal for mobile professionals, emergency response teams, construction crews, satellite offices and rural locations. By plugging an external 3G/4G/WiMAX modem into the new 3G/4G Mobile Broadband Wireless-N Router (MBRN3000), customers can quickly set up a fixed or mobile Wi-Fi hotspot virtually anytime, anywhere, with the ability to share a single high-speed cellular subscription with multiple Wi-Fi enabled devices such as a PC, iPhone™, iPod Touch®, PSP®, etc.
The CES Innovations Award-winning Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem - Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M) offers dual Wide Area Network (WAN) options for Internet access: to a DSL network via a built-in ADSL2+ modem and to a high-speed cellular network via an external 3G/4G/WiMAX USB modem. It is the first wireless-N router in the retail market to offer customers an automatic DSL-to-3G/4G/WiMAX cellular failover feature in case of a DSL outage - ideal for small businesses that need a reliable backup Internet connection with zero downtime.
In addition to the two new mobile broadband wireless routers, NETGEAR is launching the Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem (DGN2200) for consumers and small businesses. It unites 802.11n wireless and high-speed access to DSL broadband via an integrated ADSL2+ modem. It offers the same outstanding features as the Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem – Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M) but does not offer a cellular connection for failover - for many customers, a DSL broadband connection is sufficient for their networking needs. The Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem (DGN2200) will be available worldwide in March 2010 at US $129.
Photos and other information are at http://www.netgear.com/Products/RoutersandGateways/WirelessNRoutersandGateways/DGN2200.aspx.
BRIDGES, SWITCHES AND EXTENDERS FOR CONNECTING NETWORK-ENABLED DEVICES
NETGEAR solves the challenge of distributing high quality, full HD throughout the home by developing products - wireless routers and bridges, powerline devices, and Ethernet switches - that provide customers with the appropriate network infrastructure. NETGEAR is the only networking company that offers the full range of in-home distribution technologies to the retail and service provider markets, including powerline, coax and wireless.
Powerline networking technology enables customers to use existing electrical power outlets to connect to the Internetrather than running unsightly Ethernet cables. In conjunction with CES, NETGEAR is expanding its award-winning family of powerline solutions with two new kits that feature up to 200 Mbps performance, ideal for supporting high-performance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP (VoIP), Internet gaming, and large file transfers to networked devices. The NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit (XAVB2001) is up to 50 percent smaller than competing products and utilizes the latest in powerline design and technology to offer throughput and speeds up to 20 percent better than competing solutions over extended locations. Its sister product, the NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter Kit (XAVB2501), offers the same performance and design benefits, but also includes a unique filtered power socket for "pass-through" capability. Both devices incorporate HomePlug AV®-certified powerline technology, so can easily and affordably extend any existing HomePlug AV network.
This spring, NETGEAR is bringing to market its first 5-port AV switch for home networks. The new 5-port Home Theater and Gaming Network Switch (GS605AV) connects networked TVs, TiVO®, DVRs, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and cable/satellite set-top boxes to the home network and the Internet at Gigabit speeds. Capable of streaming full HD video up to 1080p, it prioritizes and optimizes performance of the Internet connection to enhance networked video, digital music and latency-free online gaming such as YouTube™, Hulu™, iTunes® and Xbox®. Consumers can easily assign priority to each connected device by selecting the appropriate color-coded port. Energy-efficiency features include an automatic power-down mode when ports are not in use, as well as an automatic detection of the cable length to adjust power usage. The NETGEAR 5-port Home Theater and Gaming Network Switch (GS605AV) will be available in March 2010 via leading retailers, direct marketers, e-commerce sites, and value-added resellers. More information is at http://www.netgear.com/Products/Switches/DesktopSwitches/GS605av.aspx.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENHANCING THE DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE
At CES, NETGEAR is also demonstrating the newest and most innovative technologies that it is incorporating into new digital entertainment and connectivity products to be introduced to the market in 2010.
Enhancing SD to Near-HD
There has been an explosion in digital media, and online video viewing is more popular than ever. However, the quality of the majority of these online, user-generated videos is often sadly deficient. NETGEAR is incorporating new technologies into its products that transform standard-definition videos into near HD quality by enhancing contrasts and color, and reducing the graininess, mosquito noise and block artifacts.
Maintaining HD Quality over the Internet
A major challenge to playing HD videos from the Internet to the TV through the home router is the speed of the end-to-end broadband connection, since it is often limited and unpredictable. NETGEAR is incorporating new technology into upcoming products that can recover lost video packets that often occur over poor Internet connections, to make sure that the HD quality is retained. This technology can expand the bandwidth up to three times to support the bit streams that are needed for HD video.
Overcoming Challenges to Wireless Signal Strength
In the spring, NETGEAR will release a carrier-grade Wireless-N bridge that supercharges the existing home network to deliver multiple, jitter-free HD video and audio streams wirelessly throughout the home. The Wireless-N bridge connects to Ethernet-enabled home theater devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, TiVo HD, Slingbox™, Internet TVs, Apple® TV, NETGEAR Digital Entertainer products, NETGEAR Stora and more, to reliably stream HD-quality video from the network, Internet, or from an IPTV service provider. It combines 4x4 multiple-input, multiple-out (MIMO) antenna signal processing, real-time spectrum analysis and dynamic digital beam forming, in addition to using a low-interference 5GHz frequency band. It is designed to overcome the common problems of wireless signal strength and quality associated with areas of the home that are notoriously difficult to reach, often due to building construction materials such as stone or brick walls. Consumers can simply use the high performance bridge to avoid installing expensive structured wiring and running Ethernet cables.
About NETGEAR, Inc.
NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) designs innovative, branded technology solutions that address the specific networking, storage, and security needs of Small- to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) and home users. The company offers an end-to-end networking product portfolio to enable users to share Internet access, peripherals, files, multimedia content, and applications among multiple computers and other Internet-enabled devices. Products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use. NETGEAR products are sold in over 27,000 retail locations around the globe, and via more than 37,000 value-added resellers. The company's headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in 25 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR™ partner. More information is available at http://www.netgear.com or by calling (408) 907-8000.Connect with NETGEAR at http://twitter.com/NETGEAR and http://www.facebook.com/netgear.
©2010. NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logoand ReadyShare are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.
Note: Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual data throughput will vary from maximum signal rates stipulated. Network conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for NETGEAR, Inc.:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Specifically, statements concerning NETGEAR's business and the expected performance characteristics, specifications, reliability, market acceptance, market growth, specific uses, user feedback and market position of NETGEAR's products and technology are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the following: the actual price, performance and ease of use of NETGEAR's products may not meet the price, performance and ease of use requirements of customers; product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions; failure of products may under certain circumstances cause permanent loss of end user data; new viruses or Internet threats may develop that challenge the effectiveness of security features in NETGEAR's products; the ability of NETGEAR to market and sell its products and technology; the impact and pricing of competing products; and the introduction of alternative technological solutions. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect NETGEAR and its business are detailed in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties listed in the section entitled Part II - Item 1A. Risk Factors," pages 36 through 50, in the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal third quarter ended September 27, 2009, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 6, 2009.NETGEAR undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, is introducing its newest award-winning products at the 2010 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week. NETGEAR will demonstrate new solutions in the areas of wireless and mobile networking, entertainment and storage to enable consumers to maximize the enjoyment of their HD digital media, anytime, anywhere, and on any screen. NETGEAR is introducing these new products and other emerging technology solutions at two press events today in conjunction with the official opening of CES.
Continuing the NETGEAR legacy of innovation, the company is a double-honoree in the CES Innovations 2010 Design and Engineering Award program that recognizes the industry's hottest product categories. Winners in the Home Networking category are NETGEAR (MS2110), a home media storage server, and the NETGEARÔStora Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem - Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M), which integrates 802.11n Wireless, ADSL2+ and 3G/4G/WiMAX for dual WAN capability with failover protection.
"Many of the new products introduced at CES are increasingly connected not only to the Internet, but also to each other to improve the consumer's entertainment experience. However, for these devices to connect to each other, it's essential to have the right network in place to deliver faster speeds over larger areas and with greater reliability," said Patrick Lo, founder and CEO of NETGEAR. "Like plumbing and electricity, the network has become a basic, must-have utility. NETGEAR provides the essential technology for networks to run efficiently – and we do it better than anyone."
NEW PRODUCTS FOR MEDIA STREAMING AND STORAGE
NETGEAR offers a broad variety of products tailored to the needs of modern, digitally networked consumers. These include Internet-connected set-top boxes, home media storage servers, and various devices that connect people to the Internet and their digital media both inside and outside the home.
The centerpiece of NETGEAR's press events at CES is the CES Innovations Award-winning NETGEAR Stora™ (MS2110), an easy-to-use home media storage server that provides consumers with anytime, anywhere access to their digital media on any screen. Stora enables customers to access, back up and centralize photos, music, movies and files using nearly any network device, including laptops, Macs®, PCs, smartphones, gaming consoles, networked Blu-ray™ players and HDTVs. A smooth and powerful user interface for both local and remote users unleashes home network content for use on nearly any device, at home or away. Music and photos can be shared with TVs, game consoles and even digital photo frames connected across the Internet. Full 1080p HD, Blu-ray streams can be viewed via Internet-connected set-top boxes such as NETGEAR Digital Entertainers. DLNA certification means new devices can join the party at any time. NETGEAR Stora comes with a 1 TB disk and one extra drive bay that can be used to insert an optional disk for mirroring. NETGEAR will introduce a 2 TB version of this award-winning product soon.
Product details, instructional videos and other information are at http://www.netgear.com/stora. Photos are at http://www.netgear.com/Products/Storage/Stora/MS2110.aspx.
With the launch of the Digital Entertainer Express (EVA9100) at CES, NETGEAR is also expanding its family of award-winning digital media players, which already includes the Digital Entertainer Elite (EVA9150) and Digital Entertainer Live (EVA2000). The Digital Entertainer Express is a powerful and flexible digital media player that enables serious media enthusiasts to easily enjoy and seamlessly stream personal digital media collections and Internet content over home networks to HDTVs. The unique technology of the Digital Entertainer Express enables consumers to seamlessly stream M2TS via pre-buffering and play Blu-ray quality digital video up to 1080p. They can also play MP3, multichannel WAV and FLAC files and high-resolution digital photos from PCs, Macs® or Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices, such as the NETGEAR Stora and ReadyNAS®. Consumers can also enjoy Internet content, such as Internet radio (over 250 stations), Flickr™, RSS feeds and videos from popular websites. (
WIRELESS NETWORKING INFRASTRUCTURE FOR HOMES AND SMALL BUSINESSES
Connecting the seemingly endless variety of network-enabled devices for productivity and entertainment in the home requires a wireless network infrastructure that provides range, security, reliability, speed and stability of connections. At CES, NETGEAR is debuting three new full-featured Wireless-N routers which share many outstanding features: Live Parental Controls and content filtering to protect any device on the network; multiple SSID capability for setting up guest networks; Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI), VPN (Virtual Private Network) pass-through and Denial of Service protection; automatic Quality of Service for reliable video, voice and gaming; a broadband usage meter; and energy-saving on/off switches for both power and Wi-Fi®.
Two of the new routers are compatible with high-speed 3G/4G/WiMAX cellular networks and can be used as a primary Internet connection in situations where no connection to a DSL, cable, fiber, or satellite network exists, making them ideal for mobile professionals, emergency response teams, construction crews, satellite offices and rural locations. By plugging an external 3G/4G/WiMAX modem into the new 3G/4G Mobile Broadband Wireless-N Router (MBRN3000), customers can quickly set up a fixed or mobile Wi-Fi hotspot virtually anytime, anywhere, with the ability to share a single high-speed cellular subscription with multiple Wi-Fi enabled devices such as a PC, iPhone™, iPod Touch®, PSP®, etc.
The CES Innovations Award-winning Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem - Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M) offers dual Wide Area Network (WAN) options for Internet access: to a DSL network via a built-in ADSL2+ modem and to a high-speed cellular network via an external 3G/4G/WiMAX USB modem. It is the first wireless-N router in the retail market to offer customers an automatic DSL-to-3G/4G/WiMAX cellular failover feature in case of a DSL outage - ideal for small businesses that need a reliable backup Internet connection with zero downtime.
In addition to the two new mobile broadband wireless routers, NETGEAR is launching the Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem (DGN2200) for consumers and small businesses. It unites 802.11n wireless and high-speed access to DSL broadband via an integrated ADSL2+ modem. It offers the same outstanding features as the Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem – Mobile Broadband Edition (DGN2200M) but does not offer a cellular connection for failover - for many customers, a DSL broadband connection is sufficient for their networking needs. The Wireless-N 300 Router with DSL Modem (DGN2200) will be available worldwide in March 2010 at US $129.
Photos and other information are at http://www.netgear.com/Products/RoutersandGateways/WirelessNRoutersandGateways/DGN2200.aspx.
BRIDGES, SWITCHES AND EXTENDERS FOR CONNECTING NETWORK-ENABLED DEVICES
NETGEAR solves the challenge of distributing high quality, full HD throughout the home by developing products - wireless routers and bridges, powerline devices, and Ethernet switches - that provide customers with the appropriate network infrastructure. NETGEAR is the only networking company that offers the full range of in-home distribution technologies to the retail and service provider markets, including powerline, coax and wireless.
Powerline networking technology enables customers to use existing electrical power outlets to connect to the Internetrather than running unsightly Ethernet cables. In conjunction with CES, NETGEAR is expanding its award-winning family of powerline solutions with two new kits that feature up to 200 Mbps performance, ideal for supporting high-performance applications such as HD video streaming, Voice over IP (VoIP), Internet gaming, and large file transfers to networked devices. The NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV Adapter Kit (XAVB2001) is up to 50 percent smaller than competing products and utilizes the latest in powerline design and technology to offer throughput and speeds up to 20 percent better than competing solutions over extended locations. Its sister product, the NETGEAR Powerline 200 AV+ Adapter Kit (XAVB2501), offers the same performance and design benefits, but also includes a unique filtered power socket for "pass-through" capability. Both devices incorporate HomePlug AV®-certified powerline technology, so can easily and affordably extend any existing HomePlug AV network.
This spring, NETGEAR is bringing to market its first 5-port AV switch for home networks. The new 5-port Home Theater and Gaming Network Switch (GS605AV) connects networked TVs, TiVO®, DVRs, Blu-ray players, game consoles, and cable/satellite set-top boxes to the home network and the Internet at Gigabit speeds. Capable of streaming full HD video up to 1080p, it prioritizes and optimizes performance of the Internet connection to enhance networked video, digital music and latency-free online gaming such as YouTube™, Hulu™, iTunes® and Xbox®. Consumers can easily assign priority to each connected device by selecting the appropriate color-coded port. Energy-efficiency features include an automatic power-down mode when ports are not in use, as well as an automatic detection of the cable length to adjust power usage. The NETGEAR 5-port Home Theater and Gaming Network Switch (GS605AV) will be available in March 2010 via leading retailers, direct marketers, e-commerce sites, and value-added resellers. More information is at http://www.netgear.com/Products/Switches/DesktopSwitches/GS605av.aspx.
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENHANCING THE DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE
At CES, NETGEAR is also demonstrating the newest and most innovative technologies that it is incorporating into new digital entertainment and connectivity products to be introduced to the market in 2010.
Enhancing SD to Near-HD
There has been an explosion in digital media, and online video viewing is more popular than ever. However, the quality of the majority of these online, user-generated videos is often sadly deficient. NETGEAR is incorporating new technologies into its products that transform standard-definition videos into near HD quality by enhancing contrasts and color, and reducing the graininess, mosquito noise and block artifacts.
Maintaining HD Quality over the Internet
A major challenge to playing HD videos from the Internet to the TV through the home router is the speed of the end-to-end broadband connection, since it is often limited and unpredictable. NETGEAR is incorporating new technology into upcoming products that can recover lost video packets that often occur over poor Internet connections, to make sure that the HD quality is retained. This technology can expand the bandwidth up to three times to support the bit streams that are needed for HD video.
Overcoming Challenges to Wireless Signal Strength
In the spring, NETGEAR will release a carrier-grade Wireless-N bridge that supercharges the existing home network to deliver multiple, jitter-free HD video and audio streams wirelessly throughout the home. The Wireless-N bridge connects to Ethernet-enabled home theater devices such as gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, TiVo HD, Slingbox™, Internet TVs, Apple® TV, NETGEAR Digital Entertainer products, NETGEAR Stora and more, to reliably stream HD-quality video from the network, Internet, or from an IPTV service provider. It combines 4x4 multiple-input, multiple-out (MIMO) antenna signal processing, real-time spectrum analysis and dynamic digital beam forming, in addition to using a low-interference 5GHz frequency band. It is designed to overcome the common problems of wireless signal strength and quality associated with areas of the home that are notoriously difficult to reach, often due to building construction materials such as stone or brick walls. Consumers can simply use the high performance bridge to avoid installing expensive structured wiring and running Ethernet cables.
About NETGEAR, Inc.
NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) designs innovative, branded technology solutions that address the specific networking, storage, and security needs of Small- to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) and home users. The company offers an end-to-end networking product portfolio to enable users to share Internet access, peripherals, files, multimedia content, and applications among multiple computers and other Internet-enabled devices. Products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease-of-use. NETGEAR products are sold in over 27,000 retail locations around the globe, and via more than 37,000 value-added resellers. The company's headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in 25 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR™ partner. More information is available at http://www.netgear.com or by calling (408) 907-8000.Connect with NETGEAR at http://twitter.com/NETGEAR and http://www.facebook.com/netgear.
©2010. NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the NETGEAR logoand ReadyShare are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.
Note: Maximum wireless signal rate derived from IEEE Standard 802.11 specifications. Actual data throughput will vary from maximum signal rates stipulated. Network conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.
Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for NETGEAR, Inc.:
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Specifically, statements concerning NETGEAR's business and the expected performance characteristics, specifications, reliability, market acceptance, market growth, specific uses, user feedback and market position of NETGEAR's products and technology are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Safe Harbor. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, without limitation, the following: the actual price, performance and ease of use of NETGEAR's products may not meet the price, performance and ease of use requirements of customers; product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions; failure of products may under certain circumstances cause permanent loss of end user data; new viruses or Internet threats may develop that challenge the effectiveness of security features in NETGEAR's products; the ability of NETGEAR to market and sell its products and technology; the impact and pricing of competing products; and the introduction of alternative technological solutions. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect NETGEAR and its business are detailed in the Company's periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risks and uncertainties listed in the section entitled Part II - Item 1A. Risk Factors," pages 36 through 50, in the Company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the fiscal third quarter ended September 27, 2009, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 6, 2009.NETGEAR undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Asian Countries Agree to Pursue Treaty on Dry Ports to Promote Regional Integration
Transport Ministers Forum concludes first session at ESCAP in Bangkok
Transport ministers from across Asia have agreed to work on a treaty to promote the development of dry ports – inland transport and logistics hubs – to spur intraregional trade and growth.
The agreement came at the end of the first session of the Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, which concluded today at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok.
In the Bangkok Declaration on Transport Development in Asia, the ministers agreed to develop an intergovernmental agreement on dry ports to provide connectivity and integration of the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks, creating an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system.
Under the auspices of ESCAP, countries in the region have already adopted two intergovernmental agreements - on the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks - to promote the development and standardization of 141,000 kilometers of roadways and 114,000 kilometers of railways, linking the continent with Europe and serving as arteries for international trade, especially for landlocked countries in the region.
Dry ports will play an important role in integrating modes of transport, reducing border crossing and transit delays, facilitating the use of energy-efficient and lower emission means of transport, and creating new clusters of economic growth and job creation in local areas.
The first session of the Forum brought together 27 countries in Asia. In his opening message on Monday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that “enhanced regional connectivity is especially important” in addressing development issues.
In her opening address, Noeleen Heyzer, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, spoke of the vital role of the transport sector in providing physical connectivity required for promoting domestic demand and intraregional trade as new sources of growth.
“The economic crisis has shown that relying mainly on exports to western markets comes with inherent risks. Our region will need to diversify the drivers of growth. This must include strategies for promoting increased intra-regional trade and domestic consumption,” said Dr. Heyzer.
The Forum was created by member governments of ESCAP at their annual meeting last April. During the week-long session, delegates discussed issues pertaining to transport development in the region, including the implementation of the Busan Declaration on Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific, and the Regional Action Programme for Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific.
Transport ministers from across Asia have agreed to work on a treaty to promote the development of dry ports – inland transport and logistics hubs – to spur intraregional trade and growth.
The agreement came at the end of the first session of the Forum of Asian Ministers of Transport, which concluded today at the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok.
In the Bangkok Declaration on Transport Development in Asia, the ministers agreed to develop an intergovernmental agreement on dry ports to provide connectivity and integration of the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks, creating an international integrated intermodal transport and logistics system.
Under the auspices of ESCAP, countries in the region have already adopted two intergovernmental agreements - on the Asian Highway and the Trans-Asian Railway networks - to promote the development and standardization of 141,000 kilometers of roadways and 114,000 kilometers of railways, linking the continent with Europe and serving as arteries for international trade, especially for landlocked countries in the region.
Dry ports will play an important role in integrating modes of transport, reducing border crossing and transit delays, facilitating the use of energy-efficient and lower emission means of transport, and creating new clusters of economic growth and job creation in local areas.
The first session of the Forum brought together 27 countries in Asia. In his opening message on Monday, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that “enhanced regional connectivity is especially important” in addressing development issues.
In her opening address, Noeleen Heyzer, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, spoke of the vital role of the transport sector in providing physical connectivity required for promoting domestic demand and intraregional trade as new sources of growth.
“The economic crisis has shown that relying mainly on exports to western markets comes with inherent risks. Our region will need to diversify the drivers of growth. This must include strategies for promoting increased intra-regional trade and domestic consumption,” said Dr. Heyzer.
The Forum was created by member governments of ESCAP at their annual meeting last April. During the week-long session, delegates discussed issues pertaining to transport development in the region, including the implementation of the Busan Declaration on Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific, and the Regional Action Programme for Transport Development in Asia and the Pacific.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Investment-Grade Composite Spread Tightens To 209 Basis Points
Standard & Poor's investment-grade composite spread tightened yesterday to 209 basis points (bps), while its speculative-grade counterpart compressed to 653 bps. By rating, the 'AA' and 'A' spreads tightened one basis point each to 144 bps and 180 bps, respectively, and 'BBB' tightened 3 bps to 264 bps. The 'BB' spread tightened 5 bps to 484 bps, 'B' compressed 6 bps to 654 bps, and 'CCC' tightened 15 bps to 1,040 bps.
By industry, financial institutions, banks, and industrials tightened 4 bps each to 366 bps, 288 bps, and 336 bps, respectively. Utilities and telecommunications followed, tightening 2 bps each to 212 and 318 bps, respectively.
Despite material tightening since their record highs in December 2008, the speculative-grade spread remains range-bound within a default cycle, and the investment-grade spread continues to face pressure from financial institutions and banks. In addition, speculative-grade defaults continue to accelerate, as does the preponderance of credit downgrades. Because of these factors, we expect spreads to remain at their elevated levels for some time as investors, the credit markets, and the economy cautiously tread through the current recessionary period.
By industry, financial institutions, banks, and industrials tightened 4 bps each to 366 bps, 288 bps, and 336 bps, respectively. Utilities and telecommunications followed, tightening 2 bps each to 212 and 318 bps, respectively.
Despite material tightening since their record highs in December 2008, the speculative-grade spread remains range-bound within a default cycle, and the investment-grade spread continues to face pressure from financial institutions and banks. In addition, speculative-grade defaults continue to accelerate, as does the preponderance of credit downgrades. Because of these factors, we expect spreads to remain at their elevated levels for some time as investors, the credit markets, and the economy cautiously tread through the current recessionary period.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
NIIT Technologies partners with Hitachi Information Systems to offer Cloud computing services
NIIT Technologies Limited, a leading global IT solutions organisation announced its partnership with Hitachi Information Systems, Ltd, a leading provider of IT infrastructure services in Japan, to offer services in cloud computing.
Cloud Computing is an emerging megatrend which is standardized, IT capability delivered via the Internet in a pay-per-use and self-service manner. NIIT Technologies pursuing its non linear services model of business will be an early entrant in this space. Through this partnership NIIT Technologies and Hitachi Information Systems will provide unmatched value based on the strengths of both companies.
“Hitachi with its reliable and scalable infrastructure would own the cloud, while NIIT Technologies will harness it’s competencies and world class process capability in Remote Infrastructure Managed Services to operate the cloud” said Mr. Arvind Thakur, CEO, NIIT Technologies Ltd. “Together our customers will experience the highest quality of reliability, security and service” he added.
With Cloud Computing gaining impetus, both companies will be able to offer the complete portfolio of services around the cloud infrastructure to cater to the changing IT landscape.
“Abundant IT business experience of NIIT Technologies in global markets and Hitachi Information system's data center design & operational experience in Japanese market over many years are now united. This union will be used to provide advanced IT service in Asia.” said Mr. Iwao Hara, President and CEO, Hitachi Information Systems Ltd.
To begin with Hitachi Information Systems would leverage NIIT Technologies data centre in Bangkok and create the first hub outside Japan networked to their existing infrastructure. Drawing on the benefits of scale, shared infrastructure and standard applications, this partnership will drive down costs while increasing the speed and agility of deploying applications.
The operations are expected to begin by the first quarter of the next fiscal.
Cloud Computing is an emerging megatrend which is standardized, IT capability delivered via the Internet in a pay-per-use and self-service manner. NIIT Technologies pursuing its non linear services model of business will be an early entrant in this space. Through this partnership NIIT Technologies and Hitachi Information Systems will provide unmatched value based on the strengths of both companies.
“Hitachi with its reliable and scalable infrastructure would own the cloud, while NIIT Technologies will harness it’s competencies and world class process capability in Remote Infrastructure Managed Services to operate the cloud” said Mr. Arvind Thakur, CEO, NIIT Technologies Ltd. “Together our customers will experience the highest quality of reliability, security and service” he added.
With Cloud Computing gaining impetus, both companies will be able to offer the complete portfolio of services around the cloud infrastructure to cater to the changing IT landscape.
“Abundant IT business experience of NIIT Technologies in global markets and Hitachi Information system's data center design & operational experience in Japanese market over many years are now united. This union will be used to provide advanced IT service in Asia.” said Mr. Iwao Hara, President and CEO, Hitachi Information Systems Ltd.
To begin with Hitachi Information Systems would leverage NIIT Technologies data centre in Bangkok and create the first hub outside Japan networked to their existing infrastructure. Drawing on the benefits of scale, shared infrastructure and standard applications, this partnership will drive down costs while increasing the speed and agility of deploying applications.
The operations are expected to begin by the first quarter of the next fiscal.
SC Asset launched 3 new projects in Q4 Y2009 and its “SC Parade” the privilege campaign to be held on November 2009.
SC Assets announced its latest investment of over 1,300 million Baht to develop 3 new high-end projects , for serve the housing demand in 4Q Y2009. The three new 2009 series are “Bangkok Boulevard Kaset-Navamintra”, a luxurious 3-story detached housing project; “Life Bangkok Boulevard Ratchavipha”, a stylish 2-story detached housing project; and “Work Place Ratchada-Ramindra”, a special-designed home office project. In addition, it will also launch “SC Parade” the privilege marketing campaign on November 8, 2009, which is expected the total sales revenue of more than 300 million Baht.
Mr. Kree Dejchai, Chief Operating Officer, SC Asset Corporation Pcl.,discloses about the company’s project development plan in Q4 Y2009 that SC Asset will continually plan new project developments in accordance with its 2009 operating plan. Highlights will mainly be with projects on high potential locations in all market segments, including high rise and low rise. The company has a plan to launch 3 new projects with a combined value of over 1,300 million Baht.
1.“Bangkok Boulevard Kaset-Navamindra”, The luxurious 3-story detached housing project, which is located on an 18-rai plot of land on Ladplakao Road, will have a combined value of 740 million Baht. Developed under “Modern City Resort Style” concept to allow its urban residents to stay closer to the nature, the project will have only 74 units. With a starting price of only 10.9 million Baht, each unit will have four bedrooms, 5 restrooms, green room and family room to serve the lifestyle of each family member – all within a combined usable area of approximately 260 SQM. The project is most outstanding in its prime location, which is right on main road and well connected to various routes, e.g. Ramindra, Kaset-Navamindra and Paholyothin. It is fully equipped with basic facilities and infrastructure, swimming pool, Wi Fi fitness center and safe with triple security system.
2.“Life Bangkok Boulevard Ratchavipha”, The stylish 2-story detached housing project, which is outstandingly located on a 16-rai plot of land right on Pibulsongkram Road, will have a combined value of 450 million Baht. Developed under “Modern Life in Urban Natural” concept, the project will have only 69 units. With a price range of 5.9 – 8 million Baht, each unit will have 3 bedrooms, 3 restrooms, living room, dinning room and separate drawing room, all within an area of 50 square Wah onwards. Designed to be airy and spacious, all units will come with curtain wall windows to allow its residents to absorb a full natural feeling of its landscape. Project facilities include a luxurious club house, swimming pool, green garden and Wi Fi fitness center.
3.“Work Place Ratchada-Ramindra” , The luxurious home office is the only project of its exclusive in Ratchada-Ramindra, which is Bangkok’s top potential location and future business center. Located on a 4-rai plot of land right on main road, it will have only 20 units and a combined value of 180 million Baht. With a starting price as low as 8 million Baht, this 4-story home office will be 6 meters wide. Designed to be both airy and spacious in order to maximize its business potentials, it is, however, planned in a Privacy Cluster Zone to optimize privacy. With a common parking lot able to accommodate 50+ cars, the project is safe and sound with access card control system. It is conveniently networked with many main routes, e.g. Kaset-Navamindra, Ramindra, Sukapiban 1-2, West Outer Ring Road and Ekamai-Ramindra Express Way.
Besides the three new projects launching, SC Asset will be held the marketing activities in order to stimulate consumer purchasing power. It is launching “SC Parade” campaign on November 8, 2009, which is a complete showcase of its eight quality projects featuring detached houses, townhomes, and condominium. These projects, which will either open its new phases or new designs and functions, will be accompanied by very privilege offers namely “SC Package to visit the 8 Wonders of the World” The campaign is forecasted to generate many visitors and the total sales revenue of over 300 million Baht.
The eight quality projects include (1) Grand Bangkok Boulevard Ratchada-Ramindra with prices ranging from 15 – 25 million Baht (2) Bangkok Boulevard Rajapruek-Rama V with prices ranging from 17 – 30 million Baht (3) Life Bangkok Boulevard Petchkasem 81 with starting price of 5 million Baht, (4) Vista Avenue Petchkasem 81, 2-story townhome with starting price of 2.4 million Baht (5) Vista Avenue Petchkasem 81, 3-story townhome with starting price of 2.99 million Baht (6) Vista Park Changwattna, 3-story townhome with starting price of 3.99 million Baht (7) Centric Scene Ratchavipha, newly conceptualized condominium with prices ranging from 2.5 – 5.55 million Baht and (8) Centric Scene Sukhumvit 64 with starting price of 2.8 million Baht.
Mr. Kree Dejchai further adds that as all projects, launched within the year, have been well achieved which is quite confident that the market would warmly welcome the three new projects as it had in the past. With outstandingly new designs and functions, high potential locations, competitive prices, rising demands, as well as the project’s value-for-money offering, it is expected that the new 2009 series would deliver satisfactory result and that the company would achieve its projected plan and targets.
Mr. Kree Dejchai, Chief Operating Officer, SC Asset Corporation Pcl.,discloses about the company’s project development plan in Q4 Y2009 that SC Asset will continually plan new project developments in accordance with its 2009 operating plan. Highlights will mainly be with projects on high potential locations in all market segments, including high rise and low rise. The company has a plan to launch 3 new projects with a combined value of over 1,300 million Baht.
1.“Bangkok Boulevard Kaset-Navamindra”, The luxurious 3-story detached housing project, which is located on an 18-rai plot of land on Ladplakao Road, will have a combined value of 740 million Baht. Developed under “Modern City Resort Style” concept to allow its urban residents to stay closer to the nature, the project will have only 74 units. With a starting price of only 10.9 million Baht, each unit will have four bedrooms, 5 restrooms, green room and family room to serve the lifestyle of each family member – all within a combined usable area of approximately 260 SQM. The project is most outstanding in its prime location, which is right on main road and well connected to various routes, e.g. Ramindra, Kaset-Navamindra and Paholyothin. It is fully equipped with basic facilities and infrastructure, swimming pool, Wi Fi fitness center and safe with triple security system.
2.“Life Bangkok Boulevard Ratchavipha”, The stylish 2-story detached housing project, which is outstandingly located on a 16-rai plot of land right on Pibulsongkram Road, will have a combined value of 450 million Baht. Developed under “Modern Life in Urban Natural” concept, the project will have only 69 units. With a price range of 5.9 – 8 million Baht, each unit will have 3 bedrooms, 3 restrooms, living room, dinning room and separate drawing room, all within an area of 50 square Wah onwards. Designed to be airy and spacious, all units will come with curtain wall windows to allow its residents to absorb a full natural feeling of its landscape. Project facilities include a luxurious club house, swimming pool, green garden and Wi Fi fitness center.
3.“Work Place Ratchada-Ramindra” , The luxurious home office is the only project of its exclusive in Ratchada-Ramindra, which is Bangkok’s top potential location and future business center. Located on a 4-rai plot of land right on main road, it will have only 20 units and a combined value of 180 million Baht. With a starting price as low as 8 million Baht, this 4-story home office will be 6 meters wide. Designed to be both airy and spacious in order to maximize its business potentials, it is, however, planned in a Privacy Cluster Zone to optimize privacy. With a common parking lot able to accommodate 50+ cars, the project is safe and sound with access card control system. It is conveniently networked with many main routes, e.g. Kaset-Navamindra, Ramindra, Sukapiban 1-2, West Outer Ring Road and Ekamai-Ramindra Express Way.
Besides the three new projects launching, SC Asset will be held the marketing activities in order to stimulate consumer purchasing power. It is launching “SC Parade” campaign on November 8, 2009, which is a complete showcase of its eight quality projects featuring detached houses, townhomes, and condominium. These projects, which will either open its new phases or new designs and functions, will be accompanied by very privilege offers namely “SC Package to visit the 8 Wonders of the World” The campaign is forecasted to generate many visitors and the total sales revenue of over 300 million Baht.
The eight quality projects include (1) Grand Bangkok Boulevard Ratchada-Ramindra with prices ranging from 15 – 25 million Baht (2) Bangkok Boulevard Rajapruek-Rama V with prices ranging from 17 – 30 million Baht (3) Life Bangkok Boulevard Petchkasem 81 with starting price of 5 million Baht, (4) Vista Avenue Petchkasem 81, 2-story townhome with starting price of 2.4 million Baht (5) Vista Avenue Petchkasem 81, 3-story townhome with starting price of 2.99 million Baht (6) Vista Park Changwattna, 3-story townhome with starting price of 3.99 million Baht (7) Centric Scene Ratchavipha, newly conceptualized condominium with prices ranging from 2.5 – 5.55 million Baht and (8) Centric Scene Sukhumvit 64 with starting price of 2.8 million Baht.
Mr. Kree Dejchai further adds that as all projects, launched within the year, have been well achieved which is quite confident that the market would warmly welcome the three new projects as it had in the past. With outstandingly new designs and functions, high potential locations, competitive prices, rising demands, as well as the project’s value-for-money offering, it is expected that the new 2009 series would deliver satisfactory result and that the company would achieve its projected plan and targets.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Stoppage hits Glow's Q3
The SET-listed power producer Glow Energy saw earnings slow in the third quarter due to a one-month maintenance closure of one of its plants.
Two factors caused its normalised net profit to drop to 899 million baht in the third quarter, down by 274 million from the second quarter, the company said in its statement.
Reduced power output due to a onemonth maintenance closure at its 150 MW coal-fired station affected te thirdquarter performance.
The quarter's results also weakened as Glow had not booked the business interruption liability for a stoppage earlier this year at the 150 MW station.
Output is expected to return to normal in the final quarter as there are no more major maintenance stoppages scheduled until late 2011. The company also plans to book the remaining business inter-ruption claim of more than 100 million baht in the fourth quarter.
Glow reported sales of 26.6 billion baht over the first nine months, up 3.3%year-on-year from 25.7 billion. But its net profit fell by 5% from the same period last year to 3.04 billion baht.
Chief executive Esa Heikanen said higher interest payments of 705.5 million baht, up from 605 million last year, from increasing project finance caused the weaker performance. Fuel costs also rose by 2.8% for natural gas and 1.8% for coal.
However, Mr Heikanen said that performance declined at a slower pace than the rise in costs, thanks to revitalised sales to industrial customers.
Shares of Glow closed yesterday on the Stock Exchange of Thailand at 33 baht, up 3 baht, in trade worth 41.53 million baht.
Two factors caused its normalised net profit to drop to 899 million baht in the third quarter, down by 274 million from the second quarter, the company said in its statement.
Reduced power output due to a onemonth maintenance closure at its 150 MW coal-fired station affected te thirdquarter performance.
The quarter's results also weakened as Glow had not booked the business interruption liability for a stoppage earlier this year at the 150 MW station.
Output is expected to return to normal in the final quarter as there are no more major maintenance stoppages scheduled until late 2011. The company also plans to book the remaining business inter-ruption claim of more than 100 million baht in the fourth quarter.
Glow reported sales of 26.6 billion baht over the first nine months, up 3.3%year-on-year from 25.7 billion. But its net profit fell by 5% from the same period last year to 3.04 billion baht.
Chief executive Esa Heikanen said higher interest payments of 705.5 million baht, up from 605 million last year, from increasing project finance caused the weaker performance. Fuel costs also rose by 2.8% for natural gas and 1.8% for coal.
However, Mr Heikanen said that performance declined at a slower pace than the rise in costs, thanks to revitalised sales to industrial customers.
Shares of Glow closed yesterday on the Stock Exchange of Thailand at 33 baht, up 3 baht, in trade worth 41.53 million baht.
Magnificent seven
In the most important, most revered event since the invention of the brontosaurus trap,Microsoft shipped the most incredibly fabulous operating system ever made; the release of Windows 7 also spurred a new generation of personal computers of all sizes at prices well below last month's offers.The top reason Windows 7 does not suck: There is no registered website called Windows7Sucks.com
Kindle e-book reader maker Amazon.com and new Nook e-book reader vendor Barnes and Noble got it on; B&N got great reviews for the "Kindle killer"Nook, with dual screens and touch controls so you can "turn" pages, plays MP3s and allows many non-B&N book formats, although not the Kindle one;Amazon then killed the US version of its Kindle in favour of the international one, reduced its price to $260(8,700 baht), same as the Nook; it's not yet clear what you can get in Thailand with a Nook, but you sure can't (yet) get much, relatively speaking, with a Kindle;but here's the biggest difference so far,which Amazon.com has ignored: the Nook lets you lend e-books to any other Nook owner, just as if they were paper books; the borrowed books expire on the borrower's Nook in two weeks.
Phone maker Nokia of Finland announced it is suing iPhone maker Apple of America for being a copycat; lawyers said they figure Nokia can get at least one, probably two per cent (retail) for every iPhone sold by Steve "President for Life" Jobs and crew via the lawsuit,which sure beats working for it -$6 (200 baht) to $12(400 baht) on 30 million phones sold so far, works out to $400 million or 25 percent of the whole Apple empire profits during the last quarter;there were 10 patent thefts, the Finnish executives said, on everything from moving data to security and encryption.
Nokia of Finland announced that it is one month behind on shipping its new flagship N900 phone, the first to run on Linux software; delay of the $750(25,000 baht) phone had absolutely no part in making Nokia so short that it had to sue Apple, slap yourself for such a thought.
Tim Berners-Lee, who created the World Wide Web, said he had one regret:the double slash that follows the "http:"in standard web addresses; he estimated that 14.2 gazillion users have wasted 48.72 bazillion hours typing those two keystrokes, and he's sorry; of course there's no reason to ever type that, since your browser does it for you when you type "www.bangkokpost.com" but Tim needs to admit he made one error in his lifetime.
The International Telecommunication Union of the United Nations, which doesn't sell any phones or services, announced that there should be a mobile phone charger that will work with any phone; now who would ever have thought of that, without a UN body to wind up a major study on the subject?;the GSM Association estimates that 51,000 tonnes of chargers are made each year in order to keep companies able to have their own unique ones.
The Well, Doh Award of the Week was presented at arm's length to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development; the group's deputy secretary-general Petko Draganov said that developing countries will miss some of the stuff available on the Internet if they don't install more broadband infrastructure; a report that used your tax baht to compile said that quite a few people use mobile phones but companies are more likely to invest in countries with excellent broadband connections; no one ever had thought of this before, right?
Sun Microsystems , as a result of the Oracle takeover, said it will allow 3,000 current workers never to bother coming to work again; Sun referred to the losses as "jobs," not people; now the fourth largest server maker in the world, Sun said it lost $2.2 billion in its last fiscal year; European regulators are holding up approval of the Oracle purchase in the hope of getting some money in exchange for not involving Oracle in court cases.
The multi-gazillionaire and very annoying investor Carl Icahn resigned from the board at Yahoo ; he spun it as a vote of confidence, saying current directors are taking the formerly threatened company seriously; Yahoo reported increased profits but smaller revenues in the third quarter.
The US House of Representatives voted to censure Vietnam for jailing bloggers; the non-binding resolution sponsored by southern California congresswoman Loretta Sanchez said the Internet is "a crucial tool for the citizens of Vietnam to be able to exercise their freedom of expression and association;"Hanoi has recently jailed at least nine activists for up to six years apiece for holding pro-democracy banners. Iran jailed blogger Hossein "Hoder" Derakshan for 10 months - in solitary confinement.
Kindle e-book reader maker Amazon.com and new Nook e-book reader vendor Barnes and Noble got it on; B&N got great reviews for the "Kindle killer"Nook, with dual screens and touch controls so you can "turn" pages, plays MP3s and allows many non-B&N book formats, although not the Kindle one;Amazon then killed the US version of its Kindle in favour of the international one, reduced its price to $260(8,700 baht), same as the Nook; it's not yet clear what you can get in Thailand with a Nook, but you sure can't (yet) get much, relatively speaking, with a Kindle;but here's the biggest difference so far,which Amazon.com has ignored: the Nook lets you lend e-books to any other Nook owner, just as if they were paper books; the borrowed books expire on the borrower's Nook in two weeks.
Phone maker Nokia of Finland announced it is suing iPhone maker Apple of America for being a copycat; lawyers said they figure Nokia can get at least one, probably two per cent (retail) for every iPhone sold by Steve "President for Life" Jobs and crew via the lawsuit,which sure beats working for it -$6 (200 baht) to $12(400 baht) on 30 million phones sold so far, works out to $400 million or 25 percent of the whole Apple empire profits during the last quarter;there were 10 patent thefts, the Finnish executives said, on everything from moving data to security and encryption.
Nokia of Finland announced that it is one month behind on shipping its new flagship N900 phone, the first to run on Linux software; delay of the $750(25,000 baht) phone had absolutely no part in making Nokia so short that it had to sue Apple, slap yourself for such a thought.
Tim Berners-Lee, who created the World Wide Web, said he had one regret:the double slash that follows the "http:"in standard web addresses; he estimated that 14.2 gazillion users have wasted 48.72 bazillion hours typing those two keystrokes, and he's sorry; of course there's no reason to ever type that, since your browser does it for you when you type "www.bangkokpost.com" but Tim needs to admit he made one error in his lifetime.
The International Telecommunication Union of the United Nations, which doesn't sell any phones or services, announced that there should be a mobile phone charger that will work with any phone; now who would ever have thought of that, without a UN body to wind up a major study on the subject?;the GSM Association estimates that 51,000 tonnes of chargers are made each year in order to keep companies able to have their own unique ones.
The Well, Doh Award of the Week was presented at arm's length to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development; the group's deputy secretary-general Petko Draganov said that developing countries will miss some of the stuff available on the Internet if they don't install more broadband infrastructure; a report that used your tax baht to compile said that quite a few people use mobile phones but companies are more likely to invest in countries with excellent broadband connections; no one ever had thought of this before, right?
Sun Microsystems , as a result of the Oracle takeover, said it will allow 3,000 current workers never to bother coming to work again; Sun referred to the losses as "jobs," not people; now the fourth largest server maker in the world, Sun said it lost $2.2 billion in its last fiscal year; European regulators are holding up approval of the Oracle purchase in the hope of getting some money in exchange for not involving Oracle in court cases.
The multi-gazillionaire and very annoying investor Carl Icahn resigned from the board at Yahoo ; he spun it as a vote of confidence, saying current directors are taking the formerly threatened company seriously; Yahoo reported increased profits but smaller revenues in the third quarter.
The US House of Representatives voted to censure Vietnam for jailing bloggers; the non-binding resolution sponsored by southern California congresswoman Loretta Sanchez said the Internet is "a crucial tool for the citizens of Vietnam to be able to exercise their freedom of expression and association;"Hanoi has recently jailed at least nine activists for up to six years apiece for holding pro-democracy banners. Iran jailed blogger Hossein "Hoder" Derakshan for 10 months - in solitary confinement.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The saga drags on
The National Telecommunications Communications (NTC) finally confirmed that a lot of people have a lot of interest in thirdgeneration (3G) yuppiephone service,and not very many of them have kind thoughts about the regulators; about 1,000 people from the phone companies,financial advisers and phone suppliers showed up for what the NTC would be the one and only public hearing on its plans to auction and regulate 3G services;not so fast, said the private business leaders, such as Athueck Asvanont, who is chairman of vice at True Move ; he explained to the NTC that the constitution (Article 84-1) bans the government from competing with telecoms firms,and what are AIS (of Shingapore) and DTAC (of Norway) but foreign state companies?; then the lawyers took a crack at the commission, explaining that it is actually illegal for the NTC to get involved in 3G, because it is a matter for the National Broadcasting Commission, which doesn't exist yet - and any action by the NTC could be overturned by a court decision, sinking 3G even further behind high technology countries like Laos and Cambodia.
For those who missed it, lawyer Wirot Poonsuwan wrote an excellent review in a certain daily newspaper of the dogand-pony show known as 3G licensing and operation; it is online at www.bangkokpost.com/business/telecom/24707.
The Energy Ministry announced field tests on biodiesel B10 fuel will soon begin, supervised by PTT and the ministry's own Department of Energy Business; if everything goes as expected,the new fuel could win approval as soon as early next year; B10 is 90 percent regular diesel and 10 percent methyl ester, produced from palm.
Your CAT Telecom is no longer a long-distance telephone company, it is an "integrated wireless services provider"; so says your CAT president Jirayuth Roongsrithong, who figures the state enterprise can boost income by spreading out a bit here, tweaking a bit there, and reap the benefits of broadband Internet; but what CAT really is waiting for is issuing licences for thirdgeneration phones, because broadband services will really grow, then; Mr Jirayuth predicted CAT will gross 52 billion baht by the end of the year, even though international call income is certain to slide again.
The Metropolitan Electricity Authority slogged along on its lonely quest to bury power lines in Bangkok; all it has to do is to coordinate with City Hall, telecoms firms and mass-transit operators; MEA governor Pornthape Thunyapongchai noted the "poor city development plan" of previous Bangkok administrators; for now, the only underground power lines are around the Grand Palace and along Silom Road;the MEA is trying to herd the cats into a 3-billion-baht plan to bury wires along Phaya Thai, Sukhumvit and Phahon Yothin, and their sois.
Taiwanese smartphone maker HTC Corp said flatly it would capture a quarter of the Thai smartphone market volume and value - by New Year's Eve; country manager Nattawat Woranopakul figured it would be easy to sell about 100,000 of the phones Thais will buy this year, and grow HTC revenues by 20 percent to 1.8 billion baht; overall,he expects Thais to buy 10 million yuppiephones for 27.9 billion baht - a huge drop from the record 47.3 billion baht in 2006; part of the reason for the drop is falling phone prices, with the cost of smartphones this year alone dropping from a 2008 average of 16,000 to 12,000 baht.
The company formerly known as Philips of Holland, now called China Electronics Corp (CEC) of Shenzhen,vowed to make a comeback in the Thailand yuppiephone market and get into the world Top 5 again by 2014; Philip Lee, who handles overseas affairs for CEC subsidiary Shenzhen Sang Fei Con-sumer Communications, predicted confidently he would double sales in Thailand and globally this year, selling six million phones in total; Philips sold the phone business to the Chinese firm in 2007.
Entertainment giant GMM Grammy signed a deal with Chunghwa Telecom of Taiwan to provide Thai and other Asian workers to download music from the Internet trough their phones; managing director Surachai Sensri of GMM International was so devastated by all that homesickness by the 350,000 immigrant workers in Taiwan that he decided to cash in on it with music from the homeland; the exclusive deal allows Grammy to provide a "buffet service"of continuous music for the equivalent of 52 baht a month, and Grammy also expects to get streaming rights to Vietnamese and Philippines music for the service.
Thailand crunched the numbers on a single production base for the electrical and electronics industry in Southeast Asia - and gave a big smile; eliminating all import tariffs and facilitating trade with the Asean Free Trade Area (Afta)will give a big boost to the Thai industry;Charuek Hengrasmee, president of the Electrical and Electronics Institute, and Katiya Greigarn, chairman of the Electrical, Electronics Industry Club at the Federation of Thai Industries, noted the currently strong position of Thailand in the making of hard drives and electrical appliances - air conditioners,refrigerators and microwaves, say and figured that in international eyes,Thailand will be "the manufacturing centre of the region."
For those who missed it, lawyer Wirot Poonsuwan wrote an excellent review in a certain daily newspaper of the dogand-pony show known as 3G licensing and operation; it is online at www.bangkokpost.com/business/telecom/24707.
The Energy Ministry announced field tests on biodiesel B10 fuel will soon begin, supervised by PTT and the ministry's own Department of Energy Business; if everything goes as expected,the new fuel could win approval as soon as early next year; B10 is 90 percent regular diesel and 10 percent methyl ester, produced from palm.
Your CAT Telecom is no longer a long-distance telephone company, it is an "integrated wireless services provider"; so says your CAT president Jirayuth Roongsrithong, who figures the state enterprise can boost income by spreading out a bit here, tweaking a bit there, and reap the benefits of broadband Internet; but what CAT really is waiting for is issuing licences for thirdgeneration phones, because broadband services will really grow, then; Mr Jirayuth predicted CAT will gross 52 billion baht by the end of the year, even though international call income is certain to slide again.
The Metropolitan Electricity Authority slogged along on its lonely quest to bury power lines in Bangkok; all it has to do is to coordinate with City Hall, telecoms firms and mass-transit operators; MEA governor Pornthape Thunyapongchai noted the "poor city development plan" of previous Bangkok administrators; for now, the only underground power lines are around the Grand Palace and along Silom Road;the MEA is trying to herd the cats into a 3-billion-baht plan to bury wires along Phaya Thai, Sukhumvit and Phahon Yothin, and their sois.
Taiwanese smartphone maker HTC Corp said flatly it would capture a quarter of the Thai smartphone market volume and value - by New Year's Eve; country manager Nattawat Woranopakul figured it would be easy to sell about 100,000 of the phones Thais will buy this year, and grow HTC revenues by 20 percent to 1.8 billion baht; overall,he expects Thais to buy 10 million yuppiephones for 27.9 billion baht - a huge drop from the record 47.3 billion baht in 2006; part of the reason for the drop is falling phone prices, with the cost of smartphones this year alone dropping from a 2008 average of 16,000 to 12,000 baht.
The company formerly known as Philips of Holland, now called China Electronics Corp (CEC) of Shenzhen,vowed to make a comeback in the Thailand yuppiephone market and get into the world Top 5 again by 2014; Philip Lee, who handles overseas affairs for CEC subsidiary Shenzhen Sang Fei Con-sumer Communications, predicted confidently he would double sales in Thailand and globally this year, selling six million phones in total; Philips sold the phone business to the Chinese firm in 2007.
Entertainment giant GMM Grammy signed a deal with Chunghwa Telecom of Taiwan to provide Thai and other Asian workers to download music from the Internet trough their phones; managing director Surachai Sensri of GMM International was so devastated by all that homesickness by the 350,000 immigrant workers in Taiwan that he decided to cash in on it with music from the homeland; the exclusive deal allows Grammy to provide a "buffet service"of continuous music for the equivalent of 52 baht a month, and Grammy also expects to get streaming rights to Vietnamese and Philippines music for the service.
Thailand crunched the numbers on a single production base for the electrical and electronics industry in Southeast Asia - and gave a big smile; eliminating all import tariffs and facilitating trade with the Asean Free Trade Area (Afta)will give a big boost to the Thai industry;Charuek Hengrasmee, president of the Electrical and Electronics Institute, and Katiya Greigarn, chairman of the Electrical, Electronics Industry Club at the Federation of Thai Industries, noted the currently strong position of Thailand in the making of hard drives and electrical appliances - air conditioners,refrigerators and microwaves, say and figured that in international eyes,Thailand will be "the manufacturing centre of the region."
Sunday, October 11, 2009
PM puts Grandma on a Hai
Wearing a brown sarong, dark blue long-sleeved shirt and white flowers in her hair, Hai Khanjantha knew yesterday was her happiest day.
Grandma Hai was up early in the morning to prepare for her meeting with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who travelled from Bangkok to hand over a compensation cheque for 1.2 million baht to her.
In return, she gave an unfinished bamboo basket to the prime minister, saying it represented the many problems of the poor still to be addressed by his government.
"I have waited for this happy moment for 32 years. I will pay off my 400,000 baht debt and spend the rest buying land for my children," she said after receiving the cheque.
Grandma Hai has 10 children, 60 grandchildren and 25 greatgrandchildren.
The handover ceremony was held before hundreds of northeastern farmers at a learning centre in Phibun Mangsahan district of this northeastern province.The centre is also the northeastern head office of the Assembly of the Poor.
A member of the assembly, Mrs Hai is one of the three farmers to whom the cabinet last month approved a grant of 4.9 million baht compensation after they had fought to reclaim their 61-rai submerged paddy fields from construction of the Huay La Ha reservoir at Na Tan village at Phibun Mangsahan district.
The other two are her late husband,Fong, and her late elder brother-in-law Sua Pankham.
The reservoir was built when Gen Prem Tinsulanonda was prime minister.The government did not seek her consent or ask how the farmers were likely to be affected. After construction, the land was submerged immediately, which resulted in them being unable to grow rice for nearly three decades.
Mrs Hai said she and the other farmers had asked many government agencies for help but no one offered a solution.
"I lost tears to the land battle. It is such a painful memory. I don't want to see other people facing the same problem," she said.
After being ignored, Grandma Hai dug a hole in the crest of the reservoir to reclaim her submerged land.
She regained her paddy in 2004 when the Thaksin Shinawatra government intervened and demanded state agencies look into her case.
They concluded that she had never given her consent for the dam and should be compensated."Even though my family have now been paid, we will not let our brothers and sisters in the Assembly of the Poor fight alone," she said.
Petch, 36, Mrs Hai's daughter, who received the 1.3 million baht cheque on behalf of her late father, said she fought with her mother to reclaim the land when she was aged only four, and knew just how much her mother had struggled during that difficult time.
"Our family relied on the paddy as its main source of income but when the paddy fields were inundated we did not know what to do," said Mrs Petch, who quit school at Mathayom 3(Grade 9)because her mother had no money to support her.
The mother of two children said she intended to put some money aside for the education of her children.
The prime minister also pledged to help the other 16 farmers affected by construction of the Huay La Ha reservoir.
Grandma Hai was up early in the morning to prepare for her meeting with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who travelled from Bangkok to hand over a compensation cheque for 1.2 million baht to her.
In return, she gave an unfinished bamboo basket to the prime minister, saying it represented the many problems of the poor still to be addressed by his government.
"I have waited for this happy moment for 32 years. I will pay off my 400,000 baht debt and spend the rest buying land for my children," she said after receiving the cheque.
Grandma Hai has 10 children, 60 grandchildren and 25 greatgrandchildren.
The handover ceremony was held before hundreds of northeastern farmers at a learning centre in Phibun Mangsahan district of this northeastern province.The centre is also the northeastern head office of the Assembly of the Poor.
A member of the assembly, Mrs Hai is one of the three farmers to whom the cabinet last month approved a grant of 4.9 million baht compensation after they had fought to reclaim their 61-rai submerged paddy fields from construction of the Huay La Ha reservoir at Na Tan village at Phibun Mangsahan district.
The other two are her late husband,Fong, and her late elder brother-in-law Sua Pankham.
The reservoir was built when Gen Prem Tinsulanonda was prime minister.The government did not seek her consent or ask how the farmers were likely to be affected. After construction, the land was submerged immediately, which resulted in them being unable to grow rice for nearly three decades.
Mrs Hai said she and the other farmers had asked many government agencies for help but no one offered a solution.
"I lost tears to the land battle. It is such a painful memory. I don't want to see other people facing the same problem," she said.
After being ignored, Grandma Hai dug a hole in the crest of the reservoir to reclaim her submerged land.
She regained her paddy in 2004 when the Thaksin Shinawatra government intervened and demanded state agencies look into her case.
They concluded that she had never given her consent for the dam and should be compensated."Even though my family have now been paid, we will not let our brothers and sisters in the Assembly of the Poor fight alone," she said.
Petch, 36, Mrs Hai's daughter, who received the 1.3 million baht cheque on behalf of her late father, said she fought with her mother to reclaim the land when she was aged only four, and knew just how much her mother had struggled during that difficult time.
"Our family relied on the paddy as its main source of income but when the paddy fields were inundated we did not know what to do," said Mrs Petch, who quit school at Mathayom 3(Grade 9)because her mother had no money to support her.
The mother of two children said she intended to put some money aside for the education of her children.
The prime minister also pledged to help the other 16 farmers affected by construction of the Huay La Ha reservoir.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
BMA cleared of negligence in BTS dispute
The Administrative Court has cleared the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and three other defendants of any responsibility in not providing suitable facilities for disabled people at skytrain stations.
The case went to court in September 2007 when Suporntham Mongkolsawat,the secretary-general of the Council of Disabled People of Thailand, and two others filed a lawsuit naming the BMA,the Bangkok governor, the chief of the Civil Service Commission which comes under the BMA and Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc as defendants.
The four were accused of neglecting their duty by not setting up proper facilities for disabled people, such as lifts and ramps, and providing other facilities.
The BMA granted the concession to run the skytrain to BTS.
Hundreds of disabled people attended the court yesterday to hear the verdict.
The court ruled that although the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons Act was enacted in 1991, a year before construction work began on the skytrain, there was no regulation at the time demanding that special facilities be installed for disabled people in buildings, public places and the transport sector.
The Interior Ministry issued the appropriate regulation after the con-struction of the skytrain had begun.
The court said the BMA fulfilled its duty later by installing elevators for disabled people at five of the most crowded stations -Asok, Onnuj,Chong Nonsi, Mor Chit and Siam Square - in 1999.
This showed the BMA was not neglecting its duty, the court said.
Mr Suporntham said he would lodge an appeal against the Administrative Court ruling with the Supreme Administrative Court on behalf of all networks for disabled people.
The fight was to ensure equality for disabled people and to encourage government agencies and the private sector to pay more attention to the problems of the underprivileged, the elderly,children and pregnant women, he said.
Mr Suporntham said even though there were many programmes to help disabled people, they were of no use if disabled people were unable to venture out of their homes because of poor facilities.
All networks of disabled people would be asked to conduct a survey and circulate pictures of public places lacking in suitable facilities, he said.
"All humans are born free but the disabled are being deprived of their freedom by a disabled-unfriendly environment," he said."To use the BTS is more difficult than taking a plane and flying overseas these days."
Udomchok Churut, president of the Independent Living Pilot Project in Thailand, a non-governmental organisation supporting disabled people, said five disabled-friendly stations were not enough to help disabled people use the entire skytrain network.
The case went to court in September 2007 when Suporntham Mongkolsawat,the secretary-general of the Council of Disabled People of Thailand, and two others filed a lawsuit naming the BMA,the Bangkok governor, the chief of the Civil Service Commission which comes under the BMA and Bangkok Mass Transit System Plc as defendants.
The four were accused of neglecting their duty by not setting up proper facilities for disabled people, such as lifts and ramps, and providing other facilities.
The BMA granted the concession to run the skytrain to BTS.
Hundreds of disabled people attended the court yesterday to hear the verdict.
The court ruled that although the Rehabilitation of Disabled Persons Act was enacted in 1991, a year before construction work began on the skytrain, there was no regulation at the time demanding that special facilities be installed for disabled people in buildings, public places and the transport sector.
The Interior Ministry issued the appropriate regulation after the con-struction of the skytrain had begun.
The court said the BMA fulfilled its duty later by installing elevators for disabled people at five of the most crowded stations -Asok, Onnuj,Chong Nonsi, Mor Chit and Siam Square - in 1999.
This showed the BMA was not neglecting its duty, the court said.
Mr Suporntham said he would lodge an appeal against the Administrative Court ruling with the Supreme Administrative Court on behalf of all networks for disabled people.
The fight was to ensure equality for disabled people and to encourage government agencies and the private sector to pay more attention to the problems of the underprivileged, the elderly,children and pregnant women, he said.
Mr Suporntham said even though there were many programmes to help disabled people, they were of no use if disabled people were unable to venture out of their homes because of poor facilities.
All networks of disabled people would be asked to conduct a survey and circulate pictures of public places lacking in suitable facilities, he said.
"All humans are born free but the disabled are being deprived of their freedom by a disabled-unfriendly environment," he said."To use the BTS is more difficult than taking a plane and flying overseas these days."
Udomchok Churut, president of the Independent Living Pilot Project in Thailand, a non-governmental organisation supporting disabled people, said five disabled-friendly stations were not enough to help disabled people use the entire skytrain network.
Grandma Hai wins B1.2m in damages
Eighty-year-old grandmother Hai Khanjanta is being awarded 1.2 million baht in compensation after having fought for 30 years to reclaim her land after the construction of a dam.
The cabinet has agreed to pay Mrs Hai, Sua Khamphan and Fong Khanjanta a combined 4.9 million baht for their opportunities lost during the dam construction.
Mr Sua will receive 2.4 million baht and Mr Fong 1.3 million baht.
Mrs Hai opposed the building of Huay Ra Ha dyke from the very start of the project in 1977. The dam, built to provide drinking water to Na Tan district of Ubon Ratchathani, flooded her farm at Ban Non Tan.
She and other villagers had their land returned after former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra ordered the demolition of the dam in 2004. However, no compensation was paid to affected residents to rehabilitate their paddy fields.
Yesterday's cabinet approval for the financial compensation did not come easily.
PM's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongtoey said some state agencies argued that the payments would set a precedent for other groups to claim compensation.
"Some state agencies said this case would set a precedent for other affected groups [to claim compensation from the state]," Mr Sathit said."But we don't think so because there will be no other dams that will be ordered demolished by the state."
Mrs Hai praised the Democrat-led government for paying attention to the plight of the poor.
She was glad the government had addressed the problems raised by the Assembly of the Poor.
The woman, who joined the assembly to fight for her land, said past governments had ignored the problems of rural poor.
Asked whether the amount was enough for her family, she said it was not huge as she had fought for 32 years to receive justice.
But she insisted she would not make further demands.
She said she would give the money to her children.
The cabinet has agreed to pay Mrs Hai, Sua Khamphan and Fong Khanjanta a combined 4.9 million baht for their opportunities lost during the dam construction.
Mr Sua will receive 2.4 million baht and Mr Fong 1.3 million baht.
Mrs Hai opposed the building of Huay Ra Ha dyke from the very start of the project in 1977. The dam, built to provide drinking water to Na Tan district of Ubon Ratchathani, flooded her farm at Ban Non Tan.
She and other villagers had their land returned after former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra ordered the demolition of the dam in 2004. However, no compensation was paid to affected residents to rehabilitate their paddy fields.
Yesterday's cabinet approval for the financial compensation did not come easily.
PM's Office Minister Sathit Wongnongtoey said some state agencies argued that the payments would set a precedent for other groups to claim compensation.
"Some state agencies said this case would set a precedent for other affected groups [to claim compensation from the state]," Mr Sathit said."But we don't think so because there will be no other dams that will be ordered demolished by the state."
Mrs Hai praised the Democrat-led government for paying attention to the plight of the poor.
She was glad the government had addressed the problems raised by the Assembly of the Poor.
The woman, who joined the assembly to fight for her land, said past governments had ignored the problems of rural poor.
Asked whether the amount was enough for her family, she said it was not huge as she had fought for 32 years to receive justice.
But she insisted she would not make further demands.
She said she would give the money to her children.
RAIL-LINK LAUNCH NOT DELAYED BY PHEU THAI COMPLAINTS, SAYS SRT
The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is insisting the launch of the airport-link service will not be delayed by the opposition Pheu Thai Party's complaints about the premier and the interior minister allowing conflicts of interest in the project.
Suphoth Sublom, an SRT board director, said yesterday the project had made a lot of progress and the civil construction work was complete. The SRT is expected to officially start testing the system on December 5, which will run for three months. The service will be officially launched in April.
On Monday, a Pheu Thai MP filed a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission saying that Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Interior Minister Chaovarat Chanweerakul had allowed conflicts of interest in the project because Chaovarat's family members held shares in a construction company.
Pheu Thai's Lamphun MP Sanguan Pongmanee and the party's spokesman Prompong Nopparit claimed that Chaovarat's wife and children held shares in Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, which won the Bt408-million project contract for adding more trimmings to the rail link. The Cabinet had approved the budget on March 10.
Chaovarat, also leader of Bhum Jai Thai Party, argued he had already declared his assets and has had nothing to do with the company for a long time now.
Moreover, he said, since Sino-Thai was a public company, anybody could buy its shares and as his children were all adults, they could do what they wanted with their money.
On March 10, the Cabinet approved the Transport Ministry's request for an additional Bt115 million to hire a consultant to supervise the construction of elevated paths linking the Phya Thai Skytrain station and the Petchaburi subway station to the airport-rail link at Makkasan. This is part of the connection between airport-rail link and the SRT transportation system in the city.
It also approved Bt11 million and Bt87 million for the construction of the paths from Phya Thai station and Petchaburi subway station respectively.
The government will cover the cost of the construction, which should be completed in 15 months.
The Cabinet also approved the expenditure of Bt195 million for the services of an independent safety and system certification engineer for three years. The government will be responsible for this cost as well.
The Cabinet has acknowledged the relocation of public facilities near the airport-rail link, which would cost Bt140 million. The Metropolitan Water Works Authority and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority each will be responsible for relocation costs of Bt83 million and Bt57 million, respectively.
Suphoth Sublom, an SRT board director, said yesterday the project had made a lot of progress and the civil construction work was complete. The SRT is expected to officially start testing the system on December 5, which will run for three months. The service will be officially launched in April.
On Monday, a Pheu Thai MP filed a complaint with the National Anti-Corruption Commission saying that Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and Interior Minister Chaovarat Chanweerakul had allowed conflicts of interest in the project because Chaovarat's family members held shares in a construction company.
Pheu Thai's Lamphun MP Sanguan Pongmanee and the party's spokesman Prompong Nopparit claimed that Chaovarat's wife and children held shares in Sino-Thai Engineering and Construction, which won the Bt408-million project contract for adding more trimmings to the rail link. The Cabinet had approved the budget on March 10.
Chaovarat, also leader of Bhum Jai Thai Party, argued he had already declared his assets and has had nothing to do with the company for a long time now.
Moreover, he said, since Sino-Thai was a public company, anybody could buy its shares and as his children were all adults, they could do what they wanted with their money.
On March 10, the Cabinet approved the Transport Ministry's request for an additional Bt115 million to hire a consultant to supervise the construction of elevated paths linking the Phya Thai Skytrain station and the Petchaburi subway station to the airport-rail link at Makkasan. This is part of the connection between airport-rail link and the SRT transportation system in the city.
It also approved Bt11 million and Bt87 million for the construction of the paths from Phya Thai station and Petchaburi subway station respectively.
The government will cover the cost of the construction, which should be completed in 15 months.
The Cabinet also approved the expenditure of Bt195 million for the services of an independent safety and system certification engineer for three years. The government will be responsible for this cost as well.
The Cabinet has acknowledged the relocation of public facilities near the airport-rail link, which would cost Bt140 million. The Metropolitan Water Works Authority and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority each will be responsible for relocation costs of Bt83 million and Bt57 million, respectively.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
DUST-FREE ROADS PROJECT ROLLS ON WITH E-AUCTION BIDS
The Rural Roads Department is moving ahead with the first phase of its national sealed road project by taking bids via e-auction.
The e-auction opened on September 8. The second round will be held today and the last on September 21.
Vicharn Kunakoolsawad, director-general of the department, said yesterday the department expects to ink agreements with the bid winners on September 23.
The first phase covers 3,246 kilometres on 901 roads with a budget of Bt14.83 billion, including consulting fees. The work is expected to be complete in the upcoming fiscal year.
The department will construct other phases including 1,983.5 km for Bt1 billion each in 2011 and 2012.
"More than 700 contractors have been registered by the department. We want to allow the public to crosscheck the quality and safety of the projects," Vicharn said.
The government initiated the dust-free road project to create about 70,517 jobs as well as to push its income distribution policy.
It is also expected to save Bt683 million in public health spending caused by dust, Bt484 million in car maintenance costs and Bt5.67 billion per year in fuel consumption by rural people.
The e-auction opened on September 8. The second round will be held today and the last on September 21.
Vicharn Kunakoolsawad, director-general of the department, said yesterday the department expects to ink agreements with the bid winners on September 23.
The first phase covers 3,246 kilometres on 901 roads with a budget of Bt14.83 billion, including consulting fees. The work is expected to be complete in the upcoming fiscal year.
The department will construct other phases including 1,983.5 km for Bt1 billion each in 2011 and 2012.
"More than 700 contractors have been registered by the department. We want to allow the public to crosscheck the quality and safety of the projects," Vicharn said.
The government initiated the dust-free road project to create about 70,517 jobs as well as to push its income distribution policy.
It is also expected to save Bt683 million in public health spending caused by dust, Bt484 million in car maintenance costs and Bt5.67 billion per year in fuel consumption by rural people.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
PLAN TO TACKLE LITTER BUGS IS A GOOD MOVE
People who discard garbage in public places to face fines from next month; provinces should follow suit The city administration has revived a campaign against littering in public places. Since the beginning of this month, pedestrians, commuters and motorists have been warned against discarding garbage in public places. And starting on October 1, offenders will be fined Bt100 for each offence and the fine will be increased after three months, according to Deputy Bangkok Governor Thirachon Manomaipiboon.
The Public Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992 sets a maximum fine of Bt2,000 for littering on the road and Bt10,000 for throwing garbage into a waterway. There has been headlines at times when foreign tourists were fined for dropping cigarette butts on the street, but the law has rarely been enforced.
Thirachon warned that city officials may use megaphones to humiliate litterbugs publicly. The tactic was employed when a city-wide campaign against littering was last carried out during the governorship of Bhichit Rattakul about a decade ago. Some Bt5 million in fines were collected from litterbugs at that time.
Fining is done by officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's City Law Enforcement Department, who are known in Thai as "tamruat tessakit", and not by police. The "municipal police" will get half of the fines.
Strict enforcement of the anti-littering law will initially begin at major landmarks and main thoroughfare in all 50 districts of Bangkok.
Bangkok streets are cleaner than they were a few decades ago. In many areas, most of what is strewn on pavements is dead leaves falling from roadside trees.
Visitors from some neighbouring countries express amazement that Bangkok's pavements are mostly free of litter. Possible explanations are that city street sweepers are efficient and most local residents are less inclined to throw garbage out. The actual reason may be one of these or both of them.
But there are still places badly strewn with litter, namely Sanam Luang and the Victory Monument, where several thousands of people travel by, wait for buses and sell things. They are among the most littered places in the city and will be among the locations where the anti-littering law will be strictly enforced.
While pavements are generally clean of litter, pedestrian flyovers and canals are often strewn with discarded objects. Garbage is carelessly dumped on unused land in areas deeper into lanes. The city authorities should also focus on these areas in the next stage of strict law enforcement.
It is really difficult, if not impossible, to make a city of more than 10 million inhabitants be perfectly clean of garbage. However, at least this new campaign is a good beginning towards a cleaner Bangkok. It is an efficient way to discourage people from throwing garbage carelessly.
Strict enforcement of the public cleanliness law should not be limited just to the capital either. Authorities in the provinces must also make use of the law to keep their public places clean.
Citizens should also be educated about public discipline and social responsibility, at which many Thai people are poor. Such education should start at a young age and schoolchildren should be instilled with the benefit of cleanliness and orderliness, both at home and in public places.
The Public Cleanliness and Orderliness Act of 1992 sets a maximum fine of Bt2,000 for littering on the road and Bt10,000 for throwing garbage into a waterway. There has been headlines at times when foreign tourists were fined for dropping cigarette butts on the street, but the law has rarely been enforced.
Thirachon warned that city officials may use megaphones to humiliate litterbugs publicly. The tactic was employed when a city-wide campaign against littering was last carried out during the governorship of Bhichit Rattakul about a decade ago. Some Bt5 million in fines were collected from litterbugs at that time.
Fining is done by officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's City Law Enforcement Department, who are known in Thai as "tamruat tessakit", and not by police. The "municipal police" will get half of the fines.
Strict enforcement of the anti-littering law will initially begin at major landmarks and main thoroughfare in all 50 districts of Bangkok.
Bangkok streets are cleaner than they were a few decades ago. In many areas, most of what is strewn on pavements is dead leaves falling from roadside trees.
Visitors from some neighbouring countries express amazement that Bangkok's pavements are mostly free of litter. Possible explanations are that city street sweepers are efficient and most local residents are less inclined to throw garbage out. The actual reason may be one of these or both of them.
But there are still places badly strewn with litter, namely Sanam Luang and the Victory Monument, where several thousands of people travel by, wait for buses and sell things. They are among the most littered places in the city and will be among the locations where the anti-littering law will be strictly enforced.
While pavements are generally clean of litter, pedestrian flyovers and canals are often strewn with discarded objects. Garbage is carelessly dumped on unused land in areas deeper into lanes. The city authorities should also focus on these areas in the next stage of strict law enforcement.
It is really difficult, if not impossible, to make a city of more than 10 million inhabitants be perfectly clean of garbage. However, at least this new campaign is a good beginning towards a cleaner Bangkok. It is an efficient way to discourage people from throwing garbage carelessly.
Strict enforcement of the public cleanliness law should not be limited just to the capital either. Authorities in the provinces must also make use of the law to keep their public places clean.
Citizens should also be educated about public discipline and social responsibility, at which many Thai people are poor. Such education should start at a young age and schoolchildren should be instilled with the benefit of cleanliness and orderliness, both at home and in public places.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Infrastructure in Bangladesh ranks among worst
Infrastructure in Bangladesh ranks among the worst in the world, ranking 126th among 133 nations, according to the Global Competitiveness Report 2009-10.
Bangladesh ranked 122nd out of the 134 countries surveyed last year.
However, the country moved up 5 notches in the overall index, from last year's 111th position.
Bangladesh lags behind its South Asian neighbours: India ranked 49, a step better than last year, Pakistan remained unchanged at 101 and Sri Lanka stood at 79, down from last year's 77th position.
"The Global Competitiveness Report" (GCR) is an annual publication of the World Economic Forum (WEF). The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), a partner organisation of the WEF, also released the "Bangladesh Business Environment Study 2009" that it conducted simultaneously. Infrastructure is one of the 12 parameters taken into account for the report.
"The poor supply of electricity was the major concern for almost all respondents [98 per cent]," the report says.
More importantly, a significant deterioration in the level of perception occured in 2008.
"The caretaker government failed to narrow the yawning demand-supply gap in electricity, although a number of electricity generation projects, with a total capacity of 1,200 megawatts, were initiated in 2007 and 2008," the report says.
The GCR shows more than 80 per cent businessmen said infrastructure remained largely underdeveloped in 2008. They also said railroads and air transport facilities remain poor in the country.
"Bangladesh performs well in the worst group," said Bhattacharya.
"Infrastructure is the number one threat, even a more serious problem than corruption," he said.
Bangladesh can attribute advancements in the overall ranking to progress made in macroeconomic stability, government and other public institutions and improvements in the financial market, despite global meltdown.
Most respondents said foreign direct investment-related rules were favourable to attract investment.
Two-thirds of the respondents also said an access to bank finance with a good business plan is not enough.
On the business operation and sophistication index, over 60 percent of the companies found there was fierce competition in the local market.
Bangladesh did not demonstrate improvements in education, human capital and corruption indicators.
Bangladesh ranked 122nd out of the 134 countries surveyed last year.
However, the country moved up 5 notches in the overall index, from last year's 111th position.
Bangladesh lags behind its South Asian neighbours: India ranked 49, a step better than last year, Pakistan remained unchanged at 101 and Sri Lanka stood at 79, down from last year's 77th position.
"The Global Competitiveness Report" (GCR) is an annual publication of the World Economic Forum (WEF). The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), a partner organisation of the WEF, also released the "Bangladesh Business Environment Study 2009" that it conducted simultaneously. Infrastructure is one of the 12 parameters taken into account for the report.
"The poor supply of electricity was the major concern for almost all respondents [98 per cent]," the report says.
More importantly, a significant deterioration in the level of perception occured in 2008.
"The caretaker government failed to narrow the yawning demand-supply gap in electricity, although a number of electricity generation projects, with a total capacity of 1,200 megawatts, were initiated in 2007 and 2008," the report says.
The GCR shows more than 80 per cent businessmen said infrastructure remained largely underdeveloped in 2008. They also said railroads and air transport facilities remain poor in the country.
"Bangladesh performs well in the worst group," said Bhattacharya.
"Infrastructure is the number one threat, even a more serious problem than corruption," he said.
Bangladesh can attribute advancements in the overall ranking to progress made in macroeconomic stability, government and other public institutions and improvements in the financial market, despite global meltdown.
Most respondents said foreign direct investment-related rules were favourable to attract investment.
Two-thirds of the respondents also said an access to bank finance with a good business plan is not enough.
On the business operation and sophistication index, over 60 percent of the companies found there was fierce competition in the local market.
Bangladesh did not demonstrate improvements in education, human capital and corruption indicators.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Indian villagers take over govt road project
Frustrated villagers in northeast India have grabbed spades and axes and started building their own road to the local town after 20 years of government delays, a newspaper reported yesterday.
About 750 residents from seven villages are working on the 25km route to connect them to Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya, said the Hindustan Times ."Last month, we decided that we had waited long enough," Tyllilang Mukhim,a village elder from Nonglatem, told the newspaper, which published pictures of dozens of women preparing the rough ground using basic hand tools.
"Almost all of us grow a variety of vegetables, rice, ginger ... and it is not possible to take them to the market before they rot," Mr Mukhim said.
The villagers plan to finish the job within 25 days. The road-building project was first started by the state government in 1989. State government officials blamed lack of funds for their failure to complete the job.
About 750 residents from seven villages are working on the 25km route to connect them to Shillong, the state capital of Meghalaya, said the Hindustan Times ."Last month, we decided that we had waited long enough," Tyllilang Mukhim,a village elder from Nonglatem, told the newspaper, which published pictures of dozens of women preparing the rough ground using basic hand tools.
"Almost all of us grow a variety of vegetables, rice, ginger ... and it is not possible to take them to the market before they rot," Mr Mukhim said.
The villagers plan to finish the job within 25 days. The road-building project was first started by the state government in 1989. State government officials blamed lack of funds for their failure to complete the job.
Monday, September 7, 2009
FIRST INFRASTRUCTURE FUND TO BE LAUNCHED NEXT YEAR
Thailand's first ever infrastructure fund - to finance construction of the 34-kilometre Srirasmi Expressway from Bang Sue to Taling Chan - will be unveiled around the second or third quarter next year.
Prapa Puranachote, senior executive vice president and chief provident-fund business officer at Krung Thai Asset Management (KTAM), said the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) would take responsibility for paying an annual dividend to unit-trust holders of the fund during the construction period, which is expected to last four years. KTAM will manage the Bt20-billion fund.
However, whether the minimum annual guarantee will be provided to the unit-trust holders has not yet been determined.
EXAT will manage fresh capital arising from the fund sales. For instance, the company might utilise 10 per cent of the capital to finance construction in the first year and it might allocate the remainder in other investment instruments to pay dividends to the unit-trust holders.
KTAM has jointly worked out details of the 30-year-maturity fund issuance to finance the Srirasmi Expressway with EXAT over the past three to four years.
The Securities and Exchange Commission gave the nod last October to asset-management companies setting up infrastructure funds to invest in completed projects generating revenue or projects under construction and scheduled to start operations.
An infrastructure fund based on existing projects should have a minimum size of Bt5 billion and must have at least 250 unit-trust holders, with limits on the maximum shareholding of any one investor. Foreign investors are restricted to holding 49 per cent of total outstanding units.
Prapa said the authorities planned to expropriate land from those who live in the construction area next year. The expropriation will be subject to Cabinet approval.
"The government will support the expropriation budget of Bt9 billion, while the construction budget of Bt20 billion will be raised in one transaction," she said.
The expected return for the 34-km expressway is based on an assumption of initial traffic of around 80,000 vehicles a day with 2-per-cent growth per year.
Investors will be able to select whether they want a fixed or floating return. The floating return will be tied to the minimum lending rate.
Prapa added that the return should be half a percentage point higher than the 30-year government bond, now being offered at 4.8 per cent per annum.
EXAT can make early redemption but the company would have to specify the price in advance.
On a separate matter, Prapa said KTAM would this year roll out a Bt1.7-billion property fund to invest in a high-end hotel in Phuket. The hotel's occupancy rate now stands at 65 per cent and the minimum room rate is higher than Bt10,000 per night for a standard room.
Most of the hotel's customers are foreign tourists.
"Currently we are negotiating with the hotel owner about the minimum return guarantee that will be offered to investors," Prapa said.
KTAM will launch another property fund at the beginning of next year. The fund of more than Bt5 billion will invest in a luxury hotel in Chiang Mai.
The Securities and Exchange Commission gave the nod last October to asset-management companies setiing up infrastructure funds to invest in completed projects generating revenue or projects under construction and scheduled to start operations.
Prapa Puranachote, senior executive vice president and chief provident-fund business officer at Krung Thai Asset Management (KTAM), said the Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) would take responsibility for paying an annual dividend to unit-trust holders of the fund during the construction period, which is expected to last four years. KTAM will manage the Bt20-billion fund.
However, whether the minimum annual guarantee will be provided to the unit-trust holders has not yet been determined.
EXAT will manage fresh capital arising from the fund sales. For instance, the company might utilise 10 per cent of the capital to finance construction in the first year and it might allocate the remainder in other investment instruments to pay dividends to the unit-trust holders.
KTAM has jointly worked out details of the 30-year-maturity fund issuance to finance the Srirasmi Expressway with EXAT over the past three to four years.
The Securities and Exchange Commission gave the nod last October to asset-management companies setting up infrastructure funds to invest in completed projects generating revenue or projects under construction and scheduled to start operations.
An infrastructure fund based on existing projects should have a minimum size of Bt5 billion and must have at least 250 unit-trust holders, with limits on the maximum shareholding of any one investor. Foreign investors are restricted to holding 49 per cent of total outstanding units.
Prapa said the authorities planned to expropriate land from those who live in the construction area next year. The expropriation will be subject to Cabinet approval.
"The government will support the expropriation budget of Bt9 billion, while the construction budget of Bt20 billion will be raised in one transaction," she said.
The expected return for the 34-km expressway is based on an assumption of initial traffic of around 80,000 vehicles a day with 2-per-cent growth per year.
Investors will be able to select whether they want a fixed or floating return. The floating return will be tied to the minimum lending rate.
Prapa added that the return should be half a percentage point higher than the 30-year government bond, now being offered at 4.8 per cent per annum.
EXAT can make early redemption but the company would have to specify the price in advance.
On a separate matter, Prapa said KTAM would this year roll out a Bt1.7-billion property fund to invest in a high-end hotel in Phuket. The hotel's occupancy rate now stands at 65 per cent and the minimum room rate is higher than Bt10,000 per night for a standard room.
Most of the hotel's customers are foreign tourists.
"Currently we are negotiating with the hotel owner about the minimum return guarantee that will be offered to investors," Prapa said.
KTAM will launch another property fund at the beginning of next year. The fund of more than Bt5 billion will invest in a luxury hotel in Chiang Mai.
The Securities and Exchange Commission gave the nod last October to asset-management companies setiing up infrastructure funds to invest in completed projects generating revenue or projects under construction and scheduled to start operations.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Ministry of Commerce commits 2 billion baht to drive Thai logistics
Logistics is one of the key elements of trade and investment relations being developed by ASEAN, including ASEAN+3, ASEAN+6 and ASEAN-China and in relation to ASEAN countries around the Mekong Region.
Related projects being discussed at the ASEAN level cover border agreements dealing with cargo. A network of distribution centres, transit stations and cargo portals supporting international trade is also being developed. Various projects will also support maritime trade, including adoption of incoterms and multiple transport forms. Collaboration between the public and private sectors in developing infrastructure and providing logistics is being encouraged.
In this connection. the Thai government has devoloped a program of related economic incentives involving a budget of over US$2 billion. The money will be used to develop logistics systems around the country, with emphasis on improving rail and water transportation. The possibility of joint venture projects with private companies in China under the supervision of the Chinese government to develop high-speed rail systems and para-rail systems linking maritime transport with rail systems in southern China is also being looked at. Meanwhile, the rail system from northeast Thailand to Laem Chabang Deep-Sea Port is also being developed and both projects are expected to progress considerably following the impending visit of Thai Commerce Minister, Korbsak Sabhavasu, to China.
The Deputy Minister added that: By the end of this year, our logistics trade policies will be implemented in two ways, offensively and defensively. Defensive implementation involves creating new logistics pathways to target countries, including both standard and advanced formats, so as to stimulate trade in various targeted regions."
Defensive implementation will also extend to encouraging Thai logistics companies to find solutions to their liquidity problems with help from the Small and Medium Enterprises Devolopment Bank of Thailand (SME Bank). A logistics management network will be established under two groups, namely Thai Logistics Alliance Co., Ltd. (TLA), comprising 31 members, and Siam Logistics Alliance Co., Ltd. (SLA) comprising 26 members. The objective here is to expand water - and rail-based transportation services and encourage more widespread use by reducing costs and increasing efficiency and customer service.
Among the top priority projects is Pakbara Deep-Sea Port in Satun province which will be developed as part of efforts to open up trade routes to the BIMTEC group comprising India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Thailand. Backed by full business incentives, the new port will be a gateway to economic development for the five southern border provinces of Thailand. It will promote trade between Thailand and India, the Middle East, Europe and Africa, thereby advancing Thailand's competitiveness in doing business with the West.
The Thai economy and society are inextricably linked to the rest of the world. Therefore, we must adapt in order to develop. It we make the most of the opportunities presented by globalisation now by enlisting the help and cooperation of all citizens, our prospects for the future should be brighter than ever.
Ministry of Commerce
www.moc.go.th
As Chairman of Logistics Trade, Deputy Commerce Minister Mr. Alongkorn Pollabutr said: "We expect to see rapid progress in implementing the free trade plans within 2009. Thailand will become capable of providing far more sophisticated logistics services to ASEAN members. In order to build the momentum for more active ASEAN markets, we will encourage the private sector to get involved. With this in place, we expect to see Thailand's intra-ASEAN trade growing at a rate of at least 10-20% annually"
Related projects being discussed at the ASEAN level cover border agreements dealing with cargo. A network of distribution centres, transit stations and cargo portals supporting international trade is also being developed. Various projects will also support maritime trade, including adoption of incoterms and multiple transport forms. Collaboration between the public and private sectors in developing infrastructure and providing logistics is being encouraged.
In this connection. the Thai government has devoloped a program of related economic incentives involving a budget of over US$2 billion. The money will be used to develop logistics systems around the country, with emphasis on improving rail and water transportation. The possibility of joint venture projects with private companies in China under the supervision of the Chinese government to develop high-speed rail systems and para-rail systems linking maritime transport with rail systems in southern China is also being looked at. Meanwhile, the rail system from northeast Thailand to Laem Chabang Deep-Sea Port is also being developed and both projects are expected to progress considerably following the impending visit of Thai Commerce Minister, Korbsak Sabhavasu, to China.
The Deputy Minister added that: By the end of this year, our logistics trade policies will be implemented in two ways, offensively and defensively. Defensive implementation involves creating new logistics pathways to target countries, including both standard and advanced formats, so as to stimulate trade in various targeted regions."
Defensive implementation will also extend to encouraging Thai logistics companies to find solutions to their liquidity problems with help from the Small and Medium Enterprises Devolopment Bank of Thailand (SME Bank). A logistics management network will be established under two groups, namely Thai Logistics Alliance Co., Ltd. (TLA), comprising 31 members, and Siam Logistics Alliance Co., Ltd. (SLA) comprising 26 members. The objective here is to expand water - and rail-based transportation services and encourage more widespread use by reducing costs and increasing efficiency and customer service.
Among the top priority projects is Pakbara Deep-Sea Port in Satun province which will be developed as part of efforts to open up trade routes to the BIMTEC group comprising India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar and Thailand. Backed by full business incentives, the new port will be a gateway to economic development for the five southern border provinces of Thailand. It will promote trade between Thailand and India, the Middle East, Europe and Africa, thereby advancing Thailand's competitiveness in doing business with the West.
The Thai economy and society are inextricably linked to the rest of the world. Therefore, we must adapt in order to develop. It we make the most of the opportunities presented by globalisation now by enlisting the help and cooperation of all citizens, our prospects for the future should be brighter than ever.
Ministry of Commerce
www.moc.go.th
As Chairman of Logistics Trade, Deputy Commerce Minister Mr. Alongkorn Pollabutr said: "We expect to see rapid progress in implementing the free trade plans within 2009. Thailand will become capable of providing far more sophisticated logistics services to ASEAN members. In order to build the momentum for more active ASEAN markets, we will encourage the private sector to get involved. With this in place, we expect to see Thailand's intra-ASEAN trade growing at a rate of at least 10-20% annually"
Friday, September 4, 2009
Remain calm amid chaos, says governor
Bangkok Governor MR Sukhumbhand Paribatra is calling on motorists to remain calm after roadworks on the Ratchayothin flyover caused chaos during rush-hour traffic.
The one-month closure of the flyover's inbound section on Ratchadaphisek Road started yesterday.
The flyover crosses Phahon Yothin Road, a traffic hotspot during rush hour.
MR Sukhumbhand said the closure of the inbound lanes heading to the Ratchada-Lat Phrao intersection would lead to severe delays from 7am to 8.30am.
Motorists should be patient as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration had to make the repairs for safety reasons after parts of the flyover's surface had eroded, revealing steel plates which became slippery when wet, he said.
Deputy Bangkok police chief Phanu Kerdlarppol said the traffic backup on Phahon Yothin Road yesterday stretched for several kilometres from 7am to 7.30am.
Repairs on the inbound lanes were scheduled to be finished and the flyover reopened to traffic within 15 days.
The outbound lanes would then be closed for repairs for the next 15 days.
Vehicles using the half-closed flyover were given a longer green light to relieve traffic.
But this meant a longer wait for traffic on the intersecting Phahon Yothin Road,Pol Maj Gen Phanu said.
Traffic police would adjust the traffic flow in the area to reduce congestion,the officer said.
Motorists should avoid the area and use the adjacent Vibhavadi Rangsit Road instead, he said.
Maintenance of the flyover started by removing the worn surface, which would later be relaid and increased to a thickness of 25 millimetres from eight millimetres.
City Hall would not repaint the flyover as it would be pulled down when the MRT Green Line was completed.
The project would involve building an underpass at the Ratchayothin intersection.
The city administration plans to close 13 flyovers for maintenance or reconstruction over the next 10 months.
The one-month closure of the flyover's inbound section on Ratchadaphisek Road started yesterday.
The flyover crosses Phahon Yothin Road, a traffic hotspot during rush hour.
MR Sukhumbhand said the closure of the inbound lanes heading to the Ratchada-Lat Phrao intersection would lead to severe delays from 7am to 8.30am.
Motorists should be patient as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration had to make the repairs for safety reasons after parts of the flyover's surface had eroded, revealing steel plates which became slippery when wet, he said.
Deputy Bangkok police chief Phanu Kerdlarppol said the traffic backup on Phahon Yothin Road yesterday stretched for several kilometres from 7am to 7.30am.
Repairs on the inbound lanes were scheduled to be finished and the flyover reopened to traffic within 15 days.
The outbound lanes would then be closed for repairs for the next 15 days.
Vehicles using the half-closed flyover were given a longer green light to relieve traffic.
But this meant a longer wait for traffic on the intersecting Phahon Yothin Road,Pol Maj Gen Phanu said.
Traffic police would adjust the traffic flow in the area to reduce congestion,the officer said.
Motorists should avoid the area and use the adjacent Vibhavadi Rangsit Road instead, he said.
Maintenance of the flyover started by removing the worn surface, which would later be relaid and increased to a thickness of 25 millimetres from eight millimetres.
City Hall would not repaint the flyover as it would be pulled down when the MRT Green Line was completed.
The project would involve building an underpass at the Ratchayothin intersection.
The city administration plans to close 13 flyovers for maintenance or reconstruction over the next 10 months.
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