Thursday, 29 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Security forces Wednesday announced the arrest of 208 people for involvement in several terrorist cells planning attacks on an oil installation as well as scholars and security forces. A cell of eight suspected militants led by an expatriate planning an attack on an oil facility in the Eastern Province was busted.
Another cell - consisting of 22 people advocating and promoting deviant thought - was busted in the ongoing security operation, the source disclosed. Part of the arrested people had formed teams to target scholars and security men.
Another cell was busted led by an infiltrator who is an expert in missile launch. They planned to smuggle eight rockets into the Kingdom. Eighteen people belonging to this cell were caught.
Another 112 people were arrested in different parts of the Kingdom linked to circles abroad engaged in facilitating traveling of the suspects to troubled areas.
In view of the danger of financing of suspicious activities within and outside the Kingdom, the security forces succeeded in monitoring them and later on arrested 32 people - Saudis and expatriates - active in securing financial support to adopt deviant ideology, the security source said.
In Madina, 16 people - who formed a media cell to promote deviant thought and instigate criminal activities - were arrested.
The security source said the cell issued a bulletin which they named the "Echo of the Euphrates" as a replacement for previous publications while another group coordinated the traveling of a group of brainwashed people to fight in areas that witnessed military conflict.
Within these security operations, the security forces seized different communication tools.
Saudi Arabia has foiled at least two major plots since 2006 to hit major oil facilities in the Kingdom.
In April this year, authorities said that more than 170 people were arrested for planning attacks on oil and industrial facilities, including some who had been training as pilots in preparation for possible suicide operations.
Five of the men played a role in an attempt to storm a major oil facility at Abqaiq in February 2006.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Art Expo opens Today at Italian Consulate in Jeddah
Wednesday, 28 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - A two-day art exhibition titled "Continue to History," opens Wednesday at the Italian Consulate here. Sixty works are on display, including canvasses by six Saudi artists.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh will inaugurate the exhibition being held under the auspices of Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal. It was organized in view of the Emir's keen interest in the cultural, artistic, spiritual and aesthetic aspects of the progress of nations and civilizations, said Ahmad Felemban, supervisor general of the event.
Participating Saudi artists are Dhia'a Aziz , Kamal Al-Moualim, Ahmad Felemban, Mohammad Al-A'ajam, Othman Al-Khozaim, Mohammad Al-Saga'abi. They are all in the forefront of fine arts in the Kingdom.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - A two-day art exhibition titled "Continue to History," opens Wednesday at the Italian Consulate here. Sixty works are on display, including canvasses by six Saudi artists.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh will inaugurate the exhibition being held under the auspices of Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal. It was organized in view of the Emir's keen interest in the cultural, artistic, spiritual and aesthetic aspects of the progress of nations and civilizations, said Ahmad Felemban, supervisor general of the event.
Participating Saudi artists are Dhia'a Aziz , Kamal Al-Moualim, Ahmad Felemban, Mohammad Al-A'ajam, Othman Al-Khozaim, Mohammad Al-Saga'abi. They are all in the forefront of fine arts in the Kingdom.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
No 5-star Camps this Haj
Tuesday, 27 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Ministry of Haj has banned so-called "five star" Haj pilgrim camps, saying the wasted space used by luxury pilgrims is putting too much of a crunch on the record pilgrim base expected this year. The guide released by the ministry for this year's Haj included a directive that the number of pilgrims in each camp should be no less than 70 percent of the officially approved capacity, specifically aiming to reduce the number of five-star camps this year - some of which entertain far fewer than the new limit.
"These camps set aside large tracts for wealthy businessmen who wish to perform Haj ... the rule also prevents institutions from accepting additional unscheduled individuals," the guide said.
Another directive prevents the use of buses licensed by companies to transport pilgrims for private purposes such as a charter for wealthy individuals. The plan identifies each bus authorized to shuttle during Haj and, more directly, the personal information of the pilgrims, to greater regulate the industry and cut down on luxury Haj.
On the other hand, the guide set requirements for all Haj buses, from "one star" up. All buses must be mechanically checked and certified able to perform the shuttle and each bus should have a guide familiar with the process who can ensure that the pilgrims perform the steps and return home at night safely.
"The buses should have all means of safety and comfort for passengers, including that the side windows should be of the type that can be opened and shut easily," the guide stated. "Posters should be draped on all sides of the bus, but especially the left side, that show the name of the company licensed to serve pilgrims and its license number."
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Ministry of Haj has banned so-called "five star" Haj pilgrim camps, saying the wasted space used by luxury pilgrims is putting too much of a crunch on the record pilgrim base expected this year. The guide released by the ministry for this year's Haj included a directive that the number of pilgrims in each camp should be no less than 70 percent of the officially approved capacity, specifically aiming to reduce the number of five-star camps this year - some of which entertain far fewer than the new limit.
"These camps set aside large tracts for wealthy businessmen who wish to perform Haj ... the rule also prevents institutions from accepting additional unscheduled individuals," the guide said.
Another directive prevents the use of buses licensed by companies to transport pilgrims for private purposes such as a charter for wealthy individuals. The plan identifies each bus authorized to shuttle during Haj and, more directly, the personal information of the pilgrims, to greater regulate the industry and cut down on luxury Haj.
On the other hand, the guide set requirements for all Haj buses, from "one star" up. All buses must be mechanically checked and certified able to perform the shuttle and each bus should have a guide familiar with the process who can ensure that the pilgrims perform the steps and return home at night safely.
"The buses should have all means of safety and comfort for passengers, including that the side windows should be of the type that can be opened and shut easily," the guide stated. "Posters should be draped on all sides of the bus, but especially the left side, that show the name of the company licensed to serve pilgrims and its license number."
Friday, November 23, 2007
Chamber launches Greek Show
Friday, 23 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Secretary General of Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry recently launched the first Greek catalog exhibition that aims to introduce the investment opportunities and various industries in Greece. The exhibition will continue for two days, and also aims to strengthen economic relations that are growing day by day between Saudi Arabia and Greece.
Mustafa Sabri, the Secretary General of Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry, pointed out the importance of investments in the Gulf region for the Greek capital, and large presence of Arab capital in Greece, which called for the establishment of this exhibition, which is playing a role in providing information to investors.
Among the exhibition activities were signing a bilateral cooperation agreement between the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Arab Greeks that enhanced opportunities to further discuss joint cooperation and provided valuable services and support to economic figures invested.
Sabri said Catalogs exhibits are the latest means to strengthen economic and commercial cooperation among different countries, especially in light of the difficulties that may prevent the opening of offices or external exhibits.
"The two sides discussed ways to promote trade cooperation covering joint where the companies participating in the exhibition many areas, including communications products and high-tech electronic goods," Sabri said.
The value of trade exchange between the Kingdom and Greece was in 2006 more than $606 million.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Secretary General of Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry recently launched the first Greek catalog exhibition that aims to introduce the investment opportunities and various industries in Greece. The exhibition will continue for two days, and also aims to strengthen economic relations that are growing day by day between Saudi Arabia and Greece.
Mustafa Sabri, the Secretary General of Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry, pointed out the importance of investments in the Gulf region for the Greek capital, and large presence of Arab capital in Greece, which called for the establishment of this exhibition, which is playing a role in providing information to investors.
Among the exhibition activities were signing a bilateral cooperation agreement between the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber of Arab Greeks that enhanced opportunities to further discuss joint cooperation and provided valuable services and support to economic figures invested.
Sabri said Catalogs exhibits are the latest means to strengthen economic and commercial cooperation among different countries, especially in light of the difficulties that may prevent the opening of offices or external exhibits.
"The two sides discussed ways to promote trade cooperation covering joint where the companies participating in the exhibition many areas, including communications products and high-tech electronic goods," Sabri said.
The value of trade exchange between the Kingdom and Greece was in 2006 more than $606 million.
Cover discussed for Grand Mosque
Wednesday, 21 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Kholood F. Al-Rhamah
MAKKAH - The General Presidency for the Two Holy Mosques is studying plans for the installation of sunshades in the Al-Tawaf area and the outer areas of the Holy Haram to protect the pilgrims from the sun's heat, especially in summer days. An official for the Presidency said that the project will include the areas located on the side of Ajyad and Sheab Ali.
Sources say that the project needs in-depth study by authorities and might have the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Haj Research conduct studies on the feasibility of the project.
"The project will be implemented after the completion of the studies and the budget is released. The installation of the sunshades will allow many of the visitors to perform prayers in the squares and special noon and morning prayers, thus, easing the congestion inside the mosque," said a source who spoke on condition of anonymity.
With the development the world is going through, the increase in the number of Muslims, growth in people's income and the development in transportation, performing Haj and Umrah has become easier for both Saudis and expatriates.
And although there are no official statistics that show the number of pilgrims who suffer from sunstroke when visiting the the Ka'aba, thousands of worshippers have in fact become sick from the heat.
By Adel Al-Malki and Kholood F. Al-Rhamah
MAKKAH - The General Presidency for the Two Holy Mosques is studying plans for the installation of sunshades in the Al-Tawaf area and the outer areas of the Holy Haram to protect the pilgrims from the sun's heat, especially in summer days. An official for the Presidency said that the project will include the areas located on the side of Ajyad and Sheab Ali.
Sources say that the project needs in-depth study by authorities and might have the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Haj Research conduct studies on the feasibility of the project.
"The project will be implemented after the completion of the studies and the budget is released. The installation of the sunshades will allow many of the visitors to perform prayers in the squares and special noon and morning prayers, thus, easing the congestion inside the mosque," said a source who spoke on condition of anonymity.
With the development the world is going through, the increase in the number of Muslims, growth in people's income and the development in transportation, performing Haj and Umrah has become easier for both Saudis and expatriates.
And although there are no official statistics that show the number of pilgrims who suffer from sunstroke when visiting the the Ka'aba, thousands of worshippers have in fact become sick from the heat.
Projects under way to Develop Jeddah
Thursday, 22 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The city's Company for Development and Real Estate Improvement, an undertaking of the Municipality, has signed contracts to develop Jeddah neighborhoods over the next six months.
The contracts focus on four main points aiming to solve the sensitive problems of the city. "The execution of the projects will start six months from now," said the company's chairman, Tariq Telmasani. "The project aims to improve ramshackle areas, housing and infrastructure."
He added the cost of the projects reach into the millions of riyals.
The company is working to involve the private sector through the development and implementation of strategic plans flexible to respond to the current needs and future of the city.
"The company has adopted a clear-cut strategy that would develop districts, add physical balance, and make the city distinct and provide all the of local and global competencies and skills, drawing from the experiences of companies with a global lead in this field," Telmasani said.
The Jeddah Company for Development and Real Estate Improvement was established by Royal Decree two years ago, in response to the requirements of economic and architectural development taking place in Saudi Arabia.
"The company will operate to achieve the vision of the Municipality in Jeddah to reinforce the status of the unique gateway to the Holy Shrines in order to become a center of Islamic culture, and commercial and tourist destination distinct environmentally and human aspects," Telmasani said.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The city's Company for Development and Real Estate Improvement, an undertaking of the Municipality, has signed contracts to develop Jeddah neighborhoods over the next six months.
The contracts focus on four main points aiming to solve the sensitive problems of the city. "The execution of the projects will start six months from now," said the company's chairman, Tariq Telmasani. "The project aims to improve ramshackle areas, housing and infrastructure."
He added the cost of the projects reach into the millions of riyals.
The company is working to involve the private sector through the development and implementation of strategic plans flexible to respond to the current needs and future of the city.
"The company has adopted a clear-cut strategy that would develop districts, add physical balance, and make the city distinct and provide all the of local and global competencies and skills, drawing from the experiences of companies with a global lead in this field," Telmasani said.
The Jeddah Company for Development and Real Estate Improvement was established by Royal Decree two years ago, in response to the requirements of economic and architectural development taking place in Saudi Arabia.
"The company will operate to achieve the vision of the Municipality in Jeddah to reinforce the status of the unique gateway to the Holy Shrines in order to become a center of Islamic culture, and commercial and tourist destination distinct environmentally and human aspects," Telmasani said.
Inside the 5-Star Jail
Tuesday, 20 November 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
BURAIDAH - The Buraidah Jail Department has allocated a cell that relatively speaking, is of five-star status for prisoners who behave well. According to prison officials, the idea is to further motivate prisoners change and improve themselves. "Any prisoner can join that particular ward no matter what his wrongdoing was," said an official at the Buraidah Jail.
There are rules an inmate must adhere to, though, when inside the five-star jail. Among these are performing prayers on a regular basis, quitting smoking, and, of course, exhibiting exemplary demeanor.
Jail officials also supply the inmates different sources of knowledge. "We give prisoners religious lectures and lessons. We have also designated an area for teaching detainees different abstract courses," he said.
Detainees also get advice from well-qualified scholars as Hamad Al-Saqa'abi, who prisoners look at as a father.
A prisoner said they benefit from the programs being implemented in the five-star cell. "I thank all the people who are behind this idea. I have memorized the whole Qur'an during my stay here - something made possible by the psychological comfort we find here," he said.
Buraidah Voluntary Store that finances the section, has spent over SR2 million on making the five-star jail not only an example on how such places should - or could - be, but also how prisoners must behave.
Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al-Zahrani, Director of Jeddah Prison, said that Saudi jails are not like any other prisons in the world.
"Islam urges us to treat man gently wherever he is found," he said.
"The government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques expects us to be nice to those who committed a wrongdoing, believing that they can be rehabilitated to become effective members of society," he added.
Al-Zahrani confirmed that all prisoners they receive are exposed to the programs of the five-star jail.
"A prisoner undergoes a health checkup when he comes to us, then we investigate whether his family needs any assistance. If so, we coordinate with the appropriate authorities to lend them a hand," said Al-Zahrani.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
BURAIDAH - The Buraidah Jail Department has allocated a cell that relatively speaking, is of five-star status for prisoners who behave well. According to prison officials, the idea is to further motivate prisoners change and improve themselves. "Any prisoner can join that particular ward no matter what his wrongdoing was," said an official at the Buraidah Jail.
There are rules an inmate must adhere to, though, when inside the five-star jail. Among these are performing prayers on a regular basis, quitting smoking, and, of course, exhibiting exemplary demeanor.
Jail officials also supply the inmates different sources of knowledge. "We give prisoners religious lectures and lessons. We have also designated an area for teaching detainees different abstract courses," he said.
Detainees also get advice from well-qualified scholars as Hamad Al-Saqa'abi, who prisoners look at as a father.
A prisoner said they benefit from the programs being implemented in the five-star cell. "I thank all the people who are behind this idea. I have memorized the whole Qur'an during my stay here - something made possible by the psychological comfort we find here," he said.
Buraidah Voluntary Store that finances the section, has spent over SR2 million on making the five-star jail not only an example on how such places should - or could - be, but also how prisoners must behave.
Maj. Gen. Ahmed Al-Zahrani, Director of Jeddah Prison, said that Saudi jails are not like any other prisons in the world.
"Islam urges us to treat man gently wherever he is found," he said.
"The government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques expects us to be nice to those who committed a wrongdoing, believing that they can be rehabilitated to become effective members of society," he added.
Al-Zahrani confirmed that all prisoners they receive are exposed to the programs of the five-star jail.
"A prisoner undergoes a health checkup when he comes to us, then we investigate whether his family needs any assistance. If so, we coordinate with the appropriate authorities to lend them a hand," said Al-Zahrani.
JCCI: Use Women’s Funds for Education
Monday, 19 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) has called for the investment of some SR50 billion funds of women in banks on productive projects especially relating to education.
The funds are "frozen" in bank accounts since women cannot use this without permission from their husbands. Saleh Al-Turki, Chairman of the JCCI, said that because of lack of work opportunities for female graduates, there is a general impression that education is not a wise investment to make. This belief partly causes an increase in living dependency up to 70 percent, he said.
Al-Turki said there is a need for an equitable distribution of opportunities for women who want to seek work in sectors other than health and education. "We have to review and expand the educational system in order to meet the needs of the labor market, taking into consideration how it would open up opportunities to our female graduates and the expected increase in population of the Kingdom in the next 10 years," he said.
The budget for girls' education this year is estimated at SR34 billion.
Women represent 56 percent of university graduates, 14 percent of the Saudi labor force and 30 percent of those who work in government.
About 20,000 women own commercial establishments and 21 percent run them, with consent from their elders.
The education sector employs 85 percent of total working women. Others are employed in the health sector.
Al-Turki said there is also a need to open the way for businesswomen to invest in the industrial sector in particular to further boost the economy.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) has called for the investment of some SR50 billion funds of women in banks on productive projects especially relating to education.
The funds are "frozen" in bank accounts since women cannot use this without permission from their husbands. Saleh Al-Turki, Chairman of the JCCI, said that because of lack of work opportunities for female graduates, there is a general impression that education is not a wise investment to make. This belief partly causes an increase in living dependency up to 70 percent, he said.
Al-Turki said there is a need for an equitable distribution of opportunities for women who want to seek work in sectors other than health and education. "We have to review and expand the educational system in order to meet the needs of the labor market, taking into consideration how it would open up opportunities to our female graduates and the expected increase in population of the Kingdom in the next 10 years," he said.
The budget for girls' education this year is estimated at SR34 billion.
Women represent 56 percent of university graduates, 14 percent of the Saudi labor force and 30 percent of those who work in government.
About 20,000 women own commercial establishments and 21 percent run them, with consent from their elders.
The education sector employs 85 percent of total working women. Others are employed in the health sector.
Al-Turki said there is also a need to open the way for businesswomen to invest in the industrial sector in particular to further boost the economy.
Business talks with West
Sunday, 18 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Some six American companies specializing in the commercial and industrial fields have met with Saudi businessmen and women at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industries (JCCI) recently.
The American delegation, headed by the Director of the International Trade Office for the Development of Economic Relations in Virginia Mark Meyerk, aimed to open investment and joint venture opportunities with the Saudi owners and entrepreneurs. Lama Al-Sulaiman said the meeting also allowed talks on Information Technology. "The Saudi businessmen and representatives of the American companies underscored the need to support trade and economic relations between the two countries, pointing out that the economic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the US are growing rapidly in the light of the availability of direct and rapid transportation," she said.
The American delegates also expressed their wishes to establish economic partnerships with the GCC states.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Some six American companies specializing in the commercial and industrial fields have met with Saudi businessmen and women at the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industries (JCCI) recently.
The American delegation, headed by the Director of the International Trade Office for the Development of Economic Relations in Virginia Mark Meyerk, aimed to open investment and joint venture opportunities with the Saudi owners and entrepreneurs. Lama Al-Sulaiman said the meeting also allowed talks on Information Technology. "The Saudi businessmen and representatives of the American companies underscored the need to support trade and economic relations between the two countries, pointing out that the economic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the US are growing rapidly in the light of the availability of direct and rapid transportation," she said.
The American delegates also expressed their wishes to establish economic partnerships with the GCC states.
750 Women join Social Awareness Campaign
Sunday, 18 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Some 750 female teachers will join a social awareness campaign in Jeddah this week under the slogan "We Are All Responsible".
Abdul Kareem Al-Heqail, director-general of Female Education, said that the joint program between the education department and the municipality aims to attract national attention to the importance of environmental awareness and social unity in nation building. The campaign also highlights the importance of instilling proper behavior among Saudis to achieve both goals.
The crucial role of families in complementing the initiative by the educational system is also emphasized.
Mohammad Abu-Emarah, supervisor of Social Development and Information in the municipality, said, "The campaign will try to remind our children to keep our city clean."
"They should know the importance of proper garbage disposal, and that vandalism and defacing of public facilities are crimes punishable by law," Abu-Emarah said.
Abu-Emarah also said that the campaign also highlights the importance of proper hygiene, disease prevention and public safety.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Some 750 female teachers will join a social awareness campaign in Jeddah this week under the slogan "We Are All Responsible".
Abdul Kareem Al-Heqail, director-general of Female Education, said that the joint program between the education department and the municipality aims to attract national attention to the importance of environmental awareness and social unity in nation building. The campaign also highlights the importance of instilling proper behavior among Saudis to achieve both goals.
The crucial role of families in complementing the initiative by the educational system is also emphasized.
Mohammad Abu-Emarah, supervisor of Social Development and Information in the municipality, said, "The campaign will try to remind our children to keep our city clean."
"They should know the importance of proper garbage disposal, and that vandalism and defacing of public facilities are crimes punishable by law," Abu-Emarah said.
Abu-Emarah also said that the campaign also highlights the importance of proper hygiene, disease prevention and public safety.
Al-Rajhi joins Real Estate Exhibition
Friday, 16 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Al-Rajhi Bank has joined the 5th Dhahran Real Estate Exhibition at the Dhahran Exhibitions Center, which started on Thursday, as part of the bank's effort to market its home and real estate financing programs to exhibition visitors. The exhibition runs until Nov. 17 and is open for public viewing.
Saeed Al-Ghamdi, deputy chief executive officer said, "Saudi Arabia is currently going through a construction and real estate boom, there is a lot of demand on residential and commercial properties." "Such exhibitions give us an opportunity to interact with our customers."
Among the bank's products is Home Financing, based on Musharaka Islamic loan, which offers a long-term repayment schedule of over 25 years to customers. The Real Estate loan on the other hand offers financial solutions based on Murabaha, with a repayment tenor of over 15 years.
period while the Irad is a program that offers opportunities to finance residential and commercial real estate.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Al-Rajhi Bank has joined the 5th Dhahran Real Estate Exhibition at the Dhahran Exhibitions Center, which started on Thursday, as part of the bank's effort to market its home and real estate financing programs to exhibition visitors. The exhibition runs until Nov. 17 and is open for public viewing.
Saeed Al-Ghamdi, deputy chief executive officer said, "Saudi Arabia is currently going through a construction and real estate boom, there is a lot of demand on residential and commercial properties." "Such exhibitions give us an opportunity to interact with our customers."
Among the bank's products is Home Financing, based on Musharaka Islamic loan, which offers a long-term repayment schedule of over 25 years to customers. The Real Estate loan on the other hand offers financial solutions based on Murabaha, with a repayment tenor of over 15 years.
period while the Irad is a program that offers opportunities to finance residential and commercial real estate.
OIC Hosts Meeting of Philippine Rivals
Thursday, 15 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
A framework to revive the implementation of the 1996 peace agreement was established during the tripartite meeting among the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) held here on November 12. OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu also announced that the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has allocated $16 million for the reconstruction of Southern Philippines to translate the peace process into reality through economic and social development.
Joint work groups to review and further the peace process in the light of the Shariah and Judiciary, special regional security force and the unified command for the autonomous region in Mindanao, natural resources and economic development issues, political system and representation, and education will be formed.
Each of the work group will be composed by three experts from both the GRP and the MNLF.
Their meetings will be facilitated by representatives from the Members of the OIC PCSP.
The first progress reports of the groups will be submitted to the tripartite meeting through the OIC by January 10, 2008.
The recommendations will be studied for discussion at the next tripartite meeting four days later.
The Secretary General thanked the delegations of the GRP and the MNLF for their commitment to the peace agreement.
He also thanked the members of the newly expanded OIC Peace Committee for Southern Philippines (PCSP) for their efforts in helping the two sides resolve their differences and preserve the gains achieved. Ihsanoglu then reminded that the OIC Ministerial Council (ICFM) has twice appealed to the GRP to expedite the legal process against MNLF Chairman Prof. Nur Misuari and see to his early release.
This way, he said, Misuari could participate in the next tripartite meeting as well as continue his constructive role in leading the Bangsamoro people.
Randolph Percasio, head of the MNLF delegation, called the meeting historical and a positive step towards achieving peace. He said the MNLF will do its part to achieve the same goal.
Chairman of the PCSP, Indonesian Ambassador Rezlan I. Jenie, also commended the outcome of the meeting.
By Adel Al-Malki
A framework to revive the implementation of the 1996 peace agreement was established during the tripartite meeting among the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) held here on November 12. OIC Secretary General Prof. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu also announced that the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) has allocated $16 million for the reconstruction of Southern Philippines to translate the peace process into reality through economic and social development.
Joint work groups to review and further the peace process in the light of the Shariah and Judiciary, special regional security force and the unified command for the autonomous region in Mindanao, natural resources and economic development issues, political system and representation, and education will be formed.
Each of the work group will be composed by three experts from both the GRP and the MNLF.
Their meetings will be facilitated by representatives from the Members of the OIC PCSP.
The first progress reports of the groups will be submitted to the tripartite meeting through the OIC by January 10, 2008.
The recommendations will be studied for discussion at the next tripartite meeting four days later.
The Secretary General thanked the delegations of the GRP and the MNLF for their commitment to the peace agreement.
He also thanked the members of the newly expanded OIC Peace Committee for Southern Philippines (PCSP) for their efforts in helping the two sides resolve their differences and preserve the gains achieved. Ihsanoglu then reminded that the OIC Ministerial Council (ICFM) has twice appealed to the GRP to expedite the legal process against MNLF Chairman Prof. Nur Misuari and see to his early release.
This way, he said, Misuari could participate in the next tripartite meeting as well as continue his constructive role in leading the Bangsamoro people.
Randolph Percasio, head of the MNLF delegation, called the meeting historical and a positive step towards achieving peace. He said the MNLF will do its part to achieve the same goal.
Chairman of the PCSP, Indonesian Ambassador Rezlan I. Jenie, also commended the outcome of the meeting.
Kingdom involved in World GIS Day
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - This city's Municipality will present five projects conducted by the Center for Geographic Systems during "World Day for GIS", which will be held on Tuesday.
The systems center has been established with a price tag of SR10 million and municipalities from all parts of the Kingdom will participate in the forum to review the draft centers for GIS. Abdull Lateef Al-Harthi, the director general of the GIS, said the first project models databases through the design and definition of all classes and geographical definitions of fields. It will be based on the municipality's requirements to make a single database for all departments. The project's results will provide a major source of information, which will include geographical and statistical subjects.
He added the conservation of all the geographic information which is available in a unified system also gives sources of information and exchanges information automatically.
The second project focuses on dengue fever during the period the disease spread in Jeddah.
"It was necessary to use GIS to spot where the disease spread and see how to fight it on digital maps, which contributes to identifying these sites and extracting the necessary reports in a simplified and rapid way," Al- Harthi said. "The objective is to set up an infection control system and a system to control mosquitoes in those areas. We also want to identify wetlands and classified sites after chemical analysis and see the most appropriate way to address them."
Linking the GIS project with a management system is what the third scheme involves. Subsequently, it will help to facilitate the follow-up of projects for different levels using GIS.
The fourth venture aims to complete the municipality's GIS applications, including public services, planning and development areas. This will be a necessary step for citizens, engineering companies, governmental bodies and the private sector. They will be able to use the latest techniques to provide services through websites and database designed art, and will be linked to each other in an integrated and effective manner.
"With this project, the municipality aims to help citizens to quickly complete a transaction. The project is considered as one of the municipality's electronic government plans," Al-Harthi said.
The fifth project entails the establishment of a geographic explorer. Users can interactively explore the most basic geographical strata with the possibility of doing research about the elements of a geographical location. The explorer provides multiple search mechanisms such as the ability to research street names and municipal districts. It can also be controlled through the map, tools available through the site and by printing various maps.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - This city's Municipality will present five projects conducted by the Center for Geographic Systems during "World Day for GIS", which will be held on Tuesday.
The systems center has been established with a price tag of SR10 million and municipalities from all parts of the Kingdom will participate in the forum to review the draft centers for GIS. Abdull Lateef Al-Harthi, the director general of the GIS, said the first project models databases through the design and definition of all classes and geographical definitions of fields. It will be based on the municipality's requirements to make a single database for all departments. The project's results will provide a major source of information, which will include geographical and statistical subjects.
He added the conservation of all the geographic information which is available in a unified system also gives sources of information and exchanges information automatically.
The second project focuses on dengue fever during the period the disease spread in Jeddah.
"It was necessary to use GIS to spot where the disease spread and see how to fight it on digital maps, which contributes to identifying these sites and extracting the necessary reports in a simplified and rapid way," Al- Harthi said. "The objective is to set up an infection control system and a system to control mosquitoes in those areas. We also want to identify wetlands and classified sites after chemical analysis and see the most appropriate way to address them."
Linking the GIS project with a management system is what the third scheme involves. Subsequently, it will help to facilitate the follow-up of projects for different levels using GIS.
The fourth venture aims to complete the municipality's GIS applications, including public services, planning and development areas. This will be a necessary step for citizens, engineering companies, governmental bodies and the private sector. They will be able to use the latest techniques to provide services through websites and database designed art, and will be linked to each other in an integrated and effective manner.
"With this project, the municipality aims to help citizens to quickly complete a transaction. The project is considered as one of the municipality's electronic government plans," Al-Harthi said.
The fifth project entails the establishment of a geographic explorer. Users can interactively explore the most basic geographical strata with the possibility of doing research about the elements of a geographical location. The explorer provides multiple search mechanisms such as the ability to research street names and municipal districts. It can also be controlled through the map, tools available through the site and by printing various maps.
New Dump Unveiled
Sunday, 11 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
Jeddah - The new garbage yard will take care of Jeddah's waste for the next 30 years, said Deputy Khaled Aqeel of this city's municipality as he started the campaign for the new location on Saturday.
The new site will cost more SR30 million, located on an area of 4.5 million square meters at a distance of 25 km from Beriman bridge. It is scheduled to open within two months.
The municipality also signed three contracts for the closure of the old garbage yard worth SR150 million, Aqeel said. The space will be turned into parkland, according to city officials.
The mechanism of the new garbage yard also includes a new system for the extraction of gas from waste, potentially providing something - energy and cash - from nothing.
"The municipality plans to dispose solid waste here for more than 30 years," he said. "By taking advantage of the decomposition of fertilizers, waste wood and green waste, as well as livestock, poultry and waste oils, components can be recycled and will be a source of material income that can be spent in the operation of the site in addition to the possibility of providing other recycled materials and gas for the production of electricity."
Aqeel said the new garbage yard will be much more technologically advanced than the previous fill, where fires caused thick smoke to rumble through Jeddah neighborhoods. Many families complained that their children were coming down with chronic conditions from living near the old dump.
"The new garbage yard will operate ... in accordance with the foundations of the world to preserve the surrounding environment, and it impacts positively on the city of Jeddah and its inhabitants," he said.
By Adel Al-Malki
Jeddah - The new garbage yard will take care of Jeddah's waste for the next 30 years, said Deputy Khaled Aqeel of this city's municipality as he started the campaign for the new location on Saturday.
The new site will cost more SR30 million, located on an area of 4.5 million square meters at a distance of 25 km from Beriman bridge. It is scheduled to open within two months.
The municipality also signed three contracts for the closure of the old garbage yard worth SR150 million, Aqeel said. The space will be turned into parkland, according to city officials.
The mechanism of the new garbage yard also includes a new system for the extraction of gas from waste, potentially providing something - energy and cash - from nothing.
"The municipality plans to dispose solid waste here for more than 30 years," he said. "By taking advantage of the decomposition of fertilizers, waste wood and green waste, as well as livestock, poultry and waste oils, components can be recycled and will be a source of material income that can be spent in the operation of the site in addition to the possibility of providing other recycled materials and gas for the production of electricity."
Aqeel said the new garbage yard will be much more technologically advanced than the previous fill, where fires caused thick smoke to rumble through Jeddah neighborhoods. Many families complained that their children were coming down with chronic conditions from living near the old dump.
"The new garbage yard will operate ... in accordance with the foundations of the world to preserve the surrounding environment, and it impacts positively on the city of Jeddah and its inhabitants," he said.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Dutch and Filipino groups visit Kingdom
Thursday, 08 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Dutch and Philippine delegations are visiting the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to promote opportunities for trade and technical cooperation between the countries.
The Dutch delegation included a group of 12 specialists in the fields of water and sanitation networks aimed at promoting opportunities for technical and commercial cooperation. "The delegation held a meeting during the visit with Saudi businessmen to study the ways to increase the volume of joint cooperation," said Mustafa Al-Sabri, the Secretary General of Jeddah's Chamber for Commerce and Industrial said.
Al-Sabri said that the delegation's visit comes within the framework of strengthening the interest of the two sides' trade relations and called Dutch businessmen to expand partnerships especially regarding investment in addition to water systems industry in the Kingdom and to take advantage of the climate of economic reforms and investment at the present time.
Meanwhile, Mustafa and the Philippine delegation also reviewed the economic relations between the two countries and ways of developing them.
Mustafa said the Philippine delegation has introduced a number of investment opportunities, particularly in commercial food products, spices, fish and pharmaceutical products.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Dutch and Philippine delegations are visiting the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to promote opportunities for trade and technical cooperation between the countries.
The Dutch delegation included a group of 12 specialists in the fields of water and sanitation networks aimed at promoting opportunities for technical and commercial cooperation. "The delegation held a meeting during the visit with Saudi businessmen to study the ways to increase the volume of joint cooperation," said Mustafa Al-Sabri, the Secretary General of Jeddah's Chamber for Commerce and Industrial said.
Al-Sabri said that the delegation's visit comes within the framework of strengthening the interest of the two sides' trade relations and called Dutch businessmen to expand partnerships especially regarding investment in addition to water systems industry in the Kingdom and to take advantage of the climate of economic reforms and investment at the present time.
Meanwhile, Mustafa and the Philippine delegation also reviewed the economic relations between the two countries and ways of developing them.
Mustafa said the Philippine delegation has introduced a number of investment opportunities, particularly in commercial food products, spices, fish and pharmaceutical products.
NCB Hosts Forum
Wednesday, 07 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
RIYADH - The National Commercial Bank will host today the Middle East and North Africa Economic Forum sponsored by the International Institute of American Financial Sciences with the participation of more than 370 financial firms.
Abdulkareem Abdulnaser, Chief Executive Officer, National Commercial Bank, said, "We are pleased to be hosting this forum with the IIF. Our program will not only highlight critical global economic issues; it will also focus on major regional trends in the Middle East," he said. He said the forum aims to put in perspective the recent developments and prospects in the oil market, the domestic economic challenges in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. It will also highlight important financial market challenges.
"The program is unique given the outstanding group of presenters who are coming to Riyadh for this very special event." Abdulnaser said.
The meeting will start with a set of overviews by IIF experts on the critical challenges confronting the global economy. Experts will discuss the latest IIF forecasts for the global economy and review how the markets are coping with the recent turmoil that was triggered by the US subprime mortgage crisis.
In addition, IIF Asia-Pacific Department Director Gregory Fager will discuss the continuing Chinese economic boom and its implications for the global economy and the Middle East.
Special keynote addresses are to be given by His Excellency Mohammad Al Sabban, Deputy Oil Minister, Saudi Arabia; Gerd Haeusler, Vice Chairman of Lazard Frères and a former senior official at the International Monetary Fund; and by Mr. Richard Gnodde, Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs International.
A panel will also discuss economic prospects for Middle East and North African countries.
By Adel Al-Malki
RIYADH - The National Commercial Bank will host today the Middle East and North Africa Economic Forum sponsored by the International Institute of American Financial Sciences with the participation of more than 370 financial firms.
Abdulkareem Abdulnaser, Chief Executive Officer, National Commercial Bank, said, "We are pleased to be hosting this forum with the IIF. Our program will not only highlight critical global economic issues; it will also focus on major regional trends in the Middle East," he said. He said the forum aims to put in perspective the recent developments and prospects in the oil market, the domestic economic challenges in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Lebanon and Syria. It will also highlight important financial market challenges.
"The program is unique given the outstanding group of presenters who are coming to Riyadh for this very special event." Abdulnaser said.
The meeting will start with a set of overviews by IIF experts on the critical challenges confronting the global economy. Experts will discuss the latest IIF forecasts for the global economy and review how the markets are coping with the recent turmoil that was triggered by the US subprime mortgage crisis.
In addition, IIF Asia-Pacific Department Director Gregory Fager will discuss the continuing Chinese economic boom and its implications for the global economy and the Middle East.
Special keynote addresses are to be given by His Excellency Mohammad Al Sabban, Deputy Oil Minister, Saudi Arabia; Gerd Haeusler, Vice Chairman of Lazard Frères and a former senior official at the International Monetary Fund; and by Mr. Richard Gnodde, Chief Executive Officer of Goldman Sachs International.
A panel will also discuss economic prospects for Middle East and North African countries.
Emaar’s Abraj Al-Hilal launched
Tuesday, 06 November 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of Makkah, on Monday formally launched Emaar Co.'s residential project Abraj Al-Hilal, a part of Jeddah Gate project that the real estate development company is developing. Ala'a Abdullah, executive chairman of Emaar, said the project is part of Emaar's efforts to broaden its footprint in the Kingdom's real estate development industry.
"The SR6-billion project is the first among the many residential complexes we intend to develop," he said.
Sales begin on November 7. The project consists of 3 housing towers that house apartments between 124 and 600 square meters.
"As one of the fastest growing cities in the Kingdom, Jeddah has a high demand for world-class residences," Ala'auddine Sa'id, chief executive director of Emaar Mideast said in a press conference. "The project will have 6,000 residential units built on 230,000 square meters of office space and 75,000 square meters of commercial area." Sa'id however did not reveal how much each unit would cost.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of Makkah, on Monday formally launched Emaar Co.'s residential project Abraj Al-Hilal, a part of Jeddah Gate project that the real estate development company is developing. Ala'a Abdullah, executive chairman of Emaar, said the project is part of Emaar's efforts to broaden its footprint in the Kingdom's real estate development industry.
"The SR6-billion project is the first among the many residential complexes we intend to develop," he said.
Sales begin on November 7. The project consists of 3 housing towers that house apartments between 124 and 600 square meters.
"As one of the fastest growing cities in the Kingdom, Jeddah has a high demand for world-class residences," Ala'auddine Sa'id, chief executive director of Emaar Mideast said in a press conference. "The project will have 6,000 residential units built on 230,000 square meters of office space and 75,000 square meters of commercial area." Sa'id however did not reveal how much each unit would cost.
Mayoralty Blamed for Dump Fires
Tuesday, 06 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH - Police blamed this city's mayoralty for the recent garbage dump fires, which they said was started by illegals.
Col. Misfir Al-Ju'aid, Jeddah police security spokesman, said the mayoralty did not take the necessary precautionary measure to stop these illegals from entering the garbage dump yard.
Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal held a meeting with city officials about the fire, where he asked them to take all necessary steps to prevent this from happening again. The meeting followed a protest where hundreds of residents of the eastern part of Jeddah banded together to close off the garbage yard where fires have repeatedly broken out in recent days, preventing more garbage trucks from dumping all Sunday night.
The people asked for immediate closure of the place because of chronic, noxious fumes as well as the thick cloud of smoke from the fires that covered area neighborhoods. Officials were able to calm the crowd after a few hours.
Saeed Rajab, a resident of Al-Samer district, said the smoke - especially since recent fires - was driving locals insane.
"How can we sleep when the clouds of smoke enter our homes and our children's lungs?" he asked. "I took two of my children to the hospital because they are suffering from asthma, and the fire continues to burn. For this reason, we will not allow the municipality's trucks to enter the area, even if the Mayor of Jeddah comes."
Most of the population fled from these neighborhoods to Jeddah's Corniche, while others went to hotels and furnished apartments, particularly as clouds persisted.
"We will not accept promises from the municipality any longer," resident Mesfer Al-Amri said. "One of the municipal officials even denies that there were fires at the site now. We closed the entries of the garbage yard in front of attending officials who have seen the fumes and told them that our children will not move until the solutions that we've heard for years come to pass."
Brigadier Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, Director of the Civil Defense Department, said that the fires resulting from dumps have become a nightmare.
"There are other fires that start daily in this city, not just here," he said, adding that his office has received dozens of calls about the fires since they began.
"Two days ago, we had a big fire where eight teams of firemen struggled to fight the fire. Only two days later, we are here to put out a fire that could influence not only people but also the environment," he said.
Al-Ju'aid said that the wind has played a major role in the spread of the smoke over the whole city.
"The dump is away from the residential areas, but people in remote places complained due to the smoke," he added.
Al-Ju'aid said the fast growth of Jeddah has made what happened unavoidable.
But with authorities' efforts to move the dump to a remote place within two months, things will change, he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih will visit both the new site and the current dump where the fire started on Saturday.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH - Police blamed this city's mayoralty for the recent garbage dump fires, which they said was started by illegals.
Col. Misfir Al-Ju'aid, Jeddah police security spokesman, said the mayoralty did not take the necessary precautionary measure to stop these illegals from entering the garbage dump yard.
Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal held a meeting with city officials about the fire, where he asked them to take all necessary steps to prevent this from happening again. The meeting followed a protest where hundreds of residents of the eastern part of Jeddah banded together to close off the garbage yard where fires have repeatedly broken out in recent days, preventing more garbage trucks from dumping all Sunday night.
The people asked for immediate closure of the place because of chronic, noxious fumes as well as the thick cloud of smoke from the fires that covered area neighborhoods. Officials were able to calm the crowd after a few hours.
Saeed Rajab, a resident of Al-Samer district, said the smoke - especially since recent fires - was driving locals insane.
"How can we sleep when the clouds of smoke enter our homes and our children's lungs?" he asked. "I took two of my children to the hospital because they are suffering from asthma, and the fire continues to burn. For this reason, we will not allow the municipality's trucks to enter the area, even if the Mayor of Jeddah comes."
Most of the population fled from these neighborhoods to Jeddah's Corniche, while others went to hotels and furnished apartments, particularly as clouds persisted.
"We will not accept promises from the municipality any longer," resident Mesfer Al-Amri said. "One of the municipal officials even denies that there were fires at the site now. We closed the entries of the garbage yard in front of attending officials who have seen the fumes and told them that our children will not move until the solutions that we've heard for years come to pass."
Brigadier Mohammed Al-Ghamdi, Director of the Civil Defense Department, said that the fires resulting from dumps have become a nightmare.
"There are other fires that start daily in this city, not just here," he said, adding that his office has received dozens of calls about the fires since they began.
"Two days ago, we had a big fire where eight teams of firemen struggled to fight the fire. Only two days later, we are here to put out a fire that could influence not only people but also the environment," he said.
Al-Ju'aid said that the wind has played a major role in the spread of the smoke over the whole city.
"The dump is away from the residential areas, but people in remote places complained due to the smoke," he added.
Al-Ju'aid said the fast growth of Jeddah has made what happened unavoidable.
But with authorities' efforts to move the dump to a remote place within two months, things will change, he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih will visit both the new site and the current dump where the fire started on Saturday.
Jeddah Fire Under Investigation
Sunday, 04 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Police are investigating a huge fire that broke out in the waste dump yard in the eastern part of the city on Friday.
Some of the residents were detained and released after interrogation.
On Friday, a huge fire was reported in the garbage dump area. According to African scavengers, fires were intentionally started. Khaled Aqeel, the Undersecretary of Services at the Jeddah Municipality, said the fire started at four different sites in the garbage yard.
Dark toxic smoke blanketed many parts of the city, causing breathing trouble to residents in Al-Ajwad and Al-Samer districts.
"Onlookers blocked the Civil Defense trucks from getting closer to the fire," Aqeel added.
According to medical sources at the health center in Umm Al-Slam District, 7,000 patients suffering from chest and nose allergy have visited the center in six months, 70 percent of them were children.
Dr Muhammed Yahia, Director of Al-Azizyia Hospital, said toxic gasses coming from the waste cause most of the respiratory tract diseases, eye infection and sinusitis.
Dr. Nasruldean Al-Sharif, a pediatrician, said weak immunity of the children make them susceptible to bronchial diseases.
More than a thousand scavengers sift through the dump on a daily basis, looking for metals that they can melt by starting fires. One example is the burning of insulated copper wiring to remove the plastic.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh discussed with the director of the Jeddah police ways of protecting the garbage yard from scavengers and a plan to organize security patrols around the area.
"The municipality has also sought the help of private security companies to monitor the location," Aqeel said.
Aqeel announced that the municipality will impose a fine on all hardware merchants who buy cheaper metal from the site.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Police are investigating a huge fire that broke out in the waste dump yard in the eastern part of the city on Friday.
Some of the residents were detained and released after interrogation.
On Friday, a huge fire was reported in the garbage dump area. According to African scavengers, fires were intentionally started. Khaled Aqeel, the Undersecretary of Services at the Jeddah Municipality, said the fire started at four different sites in the garbage yard.
Dark toxic smoke blanketed many parts of the city, causing breathing trouble to residents in Al-Ajwad and Al-Samer districts.
"Onlookers blocked the Civil Defense trucks from getting closer to the fire," Aqeel added.
According to medical sources at the health center in Umm Al-Slam District, 7,000 patients suffering from chest and nose allergy have visited the center in six months, 70 percent of them were children.
Dr Muhammed Yahia, Director of Al-Azizyia Hospital, said toxic gasses coming from the waste cause most of the respiratory tract diseases, eye infection and sinusitis.
Dr. Nasruldean Al-Sharif, a pediatrician, said weak immunity of the children make them susceptible to bronchial diseases.
More than a thousand scavengers sift through the dump on a daily basis, looking for metals that they can melt by starting fires. One example is the burning of insulated copper wiring to remove the plastic.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh discussed with the director of the Jeddah police ways of protecting the garbage yard from scavengers and a plan to organize security patrols around the area.
"The municipality has also sought the help of private security companies to monitor the location," Aqeel said.
Aqeel announced that the municipality will impose a fine on all hardware merchants who buy cheaper metal from the site.
Jeddah Fire Under Investigation
Sunday, 04 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Police are investigating a huge fire that broke out in the waste dump yard in the eastern part of the city on Friday.
Some of the residents were detained and released after interrogation.
On Friday, a huge fire was reported in the garbage dump area. According to African scavengers, fires were intentionally started. Khaled Aqeel, the Undersecretary of Services at the Jeddah Municipality, said the fire started at four different sites in the garbage yard.
Dark toxic smoke blanketed many parts of the city, causing breathing trouble to residents in Al-Ajwad and Al-Samer districts.
"Onlookers blocked the Civil Defense trucks from getting closer to the fire," Aqeel added.
According to medical sources at the health center in Umm Al-Slam District, 7,000 patients suffering from chest and nose allergy have visited the center in six months, 70 percent of them were children.
Dr Muhammed Yahia, Director of Al-Azizyia Hospital, said toxic gasses coming from the waste cause most of the respiratory tract diseases, eye infection and sinusitis.
Dr. Nasruldean Al-Sharif, a pediatrician, said weak immunity of the children make them susceptible to bronchial diseases.
More than a thousand scavengers sift through the dump on a daily basis, looking for metals that they can melt by starting fires. One example is the burning of insulated copper wiring to remove the plastic.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh discussed with the director of the Jeddah police ways of protecting the garbage yard from scavengers and a plan to organize security patrols around the area.
"The municipality has also sought the help of private security companies to monitor the location," Aqeel said.
Aqeel announced that the municipality will impose a fine on all hardware merchants who buy cheaper metal from the site.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Police are investigating a huge fire that broke out in the waste dump yard in the eastern part of the city on Friday.
Some of the residents were detained and released after interrogation.
On Friday, a huge fire was reported in the garbage dump area. According to African scavengers, fires were intentionally started. Khaled Aqeel, the Undersecretary of Services at the Jeddah Municipality, said the fire started at four different sites in the garbage yard.
Dark toxic smoke blanketed many parts of the city, causing breathing trouble to residents in Al-Ajwad and Al-Samer districts.
"Onlookers blocked the Civil Defense trucks from getting closer to the fire," Aqeel added.
According to medical sources at the health center in Umm Al-Slam District, 7,000 patients suffering from chest and nose allergy have visited the center in six months, 70 percent of them were children.
Dr Muhammed Yahia, Director of Al-Azizyia Hospital, said toxic gasses coming from the waste cause most of the respiratory tract diseases, eye infection and sinusitis.
Dr. Nasruldean Al-Sharif, a pediatrician, said weak immunity of the children make them susceptible to bronchial diseases.
More than a thousand scavengers sift through the dump on a daily basis, looking for metals that they can melt by starting fires. One example is the burning of insulated copper wiring to remove the plastic.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqeeh discussed with the director of the Jeddah police ways of protecting the garbage yard from scavengers and a plan to organize security patrols around the area.
"The municipality has also sought the help of private security companies to monitor the location," Aqeel said.
Aqeel announced that the municipality will impose a fine on all hardware merchants who buy cheaper metal from the site.
Iranian Delegation visits Jeddah
Saturday, 03 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - An Iranian delegation has begun its visit to the Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry to promote bilateral trade relations with Saudi Arabia.
The delegation includes the president of Iran's chambers of commerce, a top tourism official, and influential businessmen. Spokesman Ahmad Al-Ghamdi said during the visit, the delegation discussed increased networking of the two countries' chambers of commerce between the two countries to increase bilateral trade and investment by removing the stumbling blocks to economic cooperation. The delegation discussed a number of topics relating to navigation, shipping and import of agricultural products, especially Iranian rice.
"The delegation will discuss ways to promote exhibitions for industrial products in the two countries and to reactivate the Iranian exhibition in Jeddah on an annual basis," Al-Ghamdi said.
Saleh Al-Turki, the head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the volume of trade between the Kingdom and Iran jumped from SR250 million in 2000 to SR2.5 billion in 2005, and continuing this growth rate in the volume of exchange is one of the key objectives.
Al-Turki explained that the Iranian delegation looks forward to continued growth of current trade, especially with promising opportunities provided by the many Iranian products, which combined with access to the Saudi market is a "recipe for success."
The visit of the Iranian delegation came on the sidelines of the first Islamic tourism forum in Jeddah last week.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - An Iranian delegation has begun its visit to the Jeddah Chamber for Commerce and Industry to promote bilateral trade relations with Saudi Arabia.
The delegation includes the president of Iran's chambers of commerce, a top tourism official, and influential businessmen. Spokesman Ahmad Al-Ghamdi said during the visit, the delegation discussed increased networking of the two countries' chambers of commerce between the two countries to increase bilateral trade and investment by removing the stumbling blocks to economic cooperation. The delegation discussed a number of topics relating to navigation, shipping and import of agricultural products, especially Iranian rice.
"The delegation will discuss ways to promote exhibitions for industrial products in the two countries and to reactivate the Iranian exhibition in Jeddah on an annual basis," Al-Ghamdi said.
Saleh Al-Turki, the head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said that the volume of trade between the Kingdom and Iran jumped from SR250 million in 2000 to SR2.5 billion in 2005, and continuing this growth rate in the volume of exchange is one of the key objectives.
Al-Turki explained that the Iranian delegation looks forward to continued growth of current trade, especially with promising opportunities provided by the many Iranian products, which combined with access to the Saudi market is a "recipe for success."
The visit of the Iranian delegation came on the sidelines of the first Islamic tourism forum in Jeddah last week.
Conference Discussed Male Diseases
Friday, 02 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Jassim Al-Ghamdi
Jeddah - The First International Andrology Conference ends today at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in this city, where international and local speakers in the field of sex medicine and male infertility will discuss the latest strategies for combating men's diseases.
Sex medicine is defined by the International Society for Sex Medicine as the branch of medicine which specializes in all aspects of human sex health. Within the field of sexual medicine, there are several key issues which have widespread impact on public health. One of the most important of these issues is the new concept that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a predictor of future heart disease. ED and heart disease have common risk factors.
Another issue in sex medicine with important public health implications is the question of whether sexual dysfunction after prostate cancer can be prevented.
If this is the case, treatment for prostate cancer will become more convenient to patients who develop this disease.
Conference president Dr. Amr Al-Meligi said that in the past, people used to hear only about gynecology issues and no body heard about Andrology.
"This is quite a new field, and it is providing men with very effective treatment for their sexual and productive problems." he said.
International scientists attended the Conference from such places as the United States, the UK, Italy, and Egypt.
One lecture quoting the latest research will discuss that male circumcision reduces the chances of AIDS infection.
"There will be a special symposium which will discuss the symptoms of hormone deficiency, which affects 38 percent of men over the age of 40, and leads to poor sexual desire.
It also discusses the relationship between masculinity and hormone deficiency diseases diabetes, depression, osteoporosis. The review is the latest means to compensate for hormone problems," he said.
By Adel Al-Malki and Jassim Al-Ghamdi
Jeddah - The First International Andrology Conference ends today at Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital in this city, where international and local speakers in the field of sex medicine and male infertility will discuss the latest strategies for combating men's diseases.
Sex medicine is defined by the International Society for Sex Medicine as the branch of medicine which specializes in all aspects of human sex health. Within the field of sexual medicine, there are several key issues which have widespread impact on public health. One of the most important of these issues is the new concept that erectile dysfunction (ED) is a predictor of future heart disease. ED and heart disease have common risk factors.
Another issue in sex medicine with important public health implications is the question of whether sexual dysfunction after prostate cancer can be prevented.
If this is the case, treatment for prostate cancer will become more convenient to patients who develop this disease.
Conference president Dr. Amr Al-Meligi said that in the past, people used to hear only about gynecology issues and no body heard about Andrology.
"This is quite a new field, and it is providing men with very effective treatment for their sexual and productive problems." he said.
International scientists attended the Conference from such places as the United States, the UK, Italy, and Egypt.
One lecture quoting the latest research will discuss that male circumcision reduces the chances of AIDS infection.
"There will be a special symposium which will discuss the symptoms of hormone deficiency, which affects 38 percent of men over the age of 40, and leads to poor sexual desire.
It also discusses the relationship between masculinity and hormone deficiency diseases diabetes, depression, osteoporosis. The review is the latest means to compensate for hormone problems," he said.
AIDS test for Couples
Thursday, 01 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Ministry of Health will expand the blood test that citizens must take before marriage to include AIDS and hepatitis testing, over the next few months, said Minister Hamad Al-Manie at a health symposium in Jeddah on Wednesday. Al-Manie also said that the number of Saudi doctors in the Kingdom has not broken 21 percent in the last 15 years, despite the great rise in graduation rates at Saudi medical colleges. He attributed this to the increasing population and lamented how many doctors are stationed in the big cities.
"It is necessary at this time to send Saudi doctors to villages and areas away from large cities, because ... they understand the needs between doctor and patient," Al-Manie said.
The Minister of Health also unveiled a recommendation about lifting the salaries of doctors working in government hospitals to equal counterparts in other government sectors.
"The study's recommendations ... will cope with the leakage of cadres to work in the private sector," he said.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Ministry of Health will expand the blood test that citizens must take before marriage to include AIDS and hepatitis testing, over the next few months, said Minister Hamad Al-Manie at a health symposium in Jeddah on Wednesday. Al-Manie also said that the number of Saudi doctors in the Kingdom has not broken 21 percent in the last 15 years, despite the great rise in graduation rates at Saudi medical colleges. He attributed this to the increasing population and lamented how many doctors are stationed in the big cities.
"It is necessary at this time to send Saudi doctors to villages and areas away from large cities, because ... they understand the needs between doctor and patient," Al-Manie said.
The Minister of Health also unveiled a recommendation about lifting the salaries of doctors working in government hospitals to equal counterparts in other government sectors.
"The study's recommendations ... will cope with the leakage of cadres to work in the private sector," he said.
Dump’s Days Numbered
Thursday, 01 November 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - This city's municipality will install new machines to control the garbage yard, which will allegedly prevent illegals from starting fires in that area, city officials said.
Twenty observers will also monitor the site with the power to arrest scavengers who come to the location to take advantage of the scraps of iron and copper. "The municipality has held big campaigns in the garbage yard to fight fires there," said Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih.
He said that the municipality will soon move garbage a new landfill that will follow world standards to preserve the surrounding environment, which will impact positively on the city, citizens and residents.
The new site, which will cost up to SR30 million for a 4.5-million square meter landfill, will be located about 25 kilometers east of the Beriman bridge.
"After completion of the new location, the old one will be closed and will be converted to parkland," he said "(The old dump) caused environmental problems for the citizens who live in the surrounding areas, particularly as it receives large quantities of waste, which was leading to a number of fires," Faqih said.
The current dump received about 1.3 million tons of waste last year.
In a related event, three companies signed contracts with the municipality for five years to clean Jeddah districts with value of SR 900million.
"The new contracts divide Jeddah into three separate zones: North, south and center, and gives SR300 million for cleanliness projects in each of these areas," said Khaled Aqeel, the Under Secretary for Services in the municipality.
Aqeel added that the municipality will increase the number of containers in the city to more than 45,000, and employment to more than 7,000 cleaners.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - This city's municipality will install new machines to control the garbage yard, which will allegedly prevent illegals from starting fires in that area, city officials said.
Twenty observers will also monitor the site with the power to arrest scavengers who come to the location to take advantage of the scraps of iron and copper. "The municipality has held big campaigns in the garbage yard to fight fires there," said Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih.
He said that the municipality will soon move garbage a new landfill that will follow world standards to preserve the surrounding environment, which will impact positively on the city, citizens and residents.
The new site, which will cost up to SR30 million for a 4.5-million square meter landfill, will be located about 25 kilometers east of the Beriman bridge.
"After completion of the new location, the old one will be closed and will be converted to parkland," he said "(The old dump) caused environmental problems for the citizens who live in the surrounding areas, particularly as it receives large quantities of waste, which was leading to a number of fires," Faqih said.
The current dump received about 1.3 million tons of waste last year.
In a related event, three companies signed contracts with the municipality for five years to clean Jeddah districts with value of SR 900million.
"The new contracts divide Jeddah into three separate zones: North, south and center, and gives SR300 million for cleanliness projects in each of these areas," said Khaled Aqeel, the Under Secretary for Services in the municipality.
Aqeel added that the municipality will increase the number of containers in the city to more than 45,000, and employment to more than 7,000 cleaners.
New Governorate building in Jeddah
Monday, 29 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of Makkah region, opened the new building of Jeddah Governate located in the Northern Emirate of Makkah on Sunday.
The new building costs SR 23 million and is equipped with the latest machines for faster services and transactions. The opening of the office help fill the city's needs even as the the new electronic equipment will improve the performance of the staff, said Prince Misha'l Bin Majed, the Governor of Jeddah.
The new building has three floors with six emergency exits, parking for the Governorate visitors, and others.
Sultan Al-Bogami, Director of Administrative and Financial Affairs in Jeddah Governorate, said the building sits on a 10,386 sq. m. and can accommodate 1000 people.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of Makkah region, opened the new building of Jeddah Governate located in the Northern Emirate of Makkah on Sunday.
The new building costs SR 23 million and is equipped with the latest machines for faster services and transactions. The opening of the office help fill the city's needs even as the the new electronic equipment will improve the performance of the staff, said Prince Misha'l Bin Majed, the Governor of Jeddah.
The new building has three floors with six emergency exits, parking for the Governorate visitors, and others.
Sultan Al-Bogami, Director of Administrative and Financial Affairs in Jeddah Governorate, said the building sits on a 10,386 sq. m. and can accommodate 1000 people.
German Medical Team’s Visit
Saturday, 27 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
A German medical trade delegation will visit the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industries this month to discuss the establishment of new marketing agencies and the consolidation of trade relations.
The delegation will comprise major German companies that specialize in the manufacture and marketing of medical equipment and health laboratory supplies, said Abdulaziz Al-Watar , the director of the Media Department at the Jeddah Economic Board. Apart from Saudi businessmen, the German delegation will meet with officials of private and public hospitals.
The annual volume of German medical equipment available in the Saudi market is valued at SR3 billion.
By Adel Al-Malki
A German medical trade delegation will visit the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industries this month to discuss the establishment of new marketing agencies and the consolidation of trade relations.
The delegation will comprise major German companies that specialize in the manufacture and marketing of medical equipment and health laboratory supplies, said Abdulaziz Al-Watar , the director of the Media Department at the Jeddah Economic Board. Apart from Saudi businessmen, the German delegation will meet with officials of private and public hospitals.
The annual volume of German medical equipment available in the Saudi market is valued at SR3 billion.
Pakistan Trade show Focuses on Investment
Thursday, 25 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Consulate General of Pakistan will hold the second Pakistani Specific Week and Catalogue Show in Jeddah's Chambers of Commerce and Industry from November 3-7. Organizers are aiming to highlight Pakistan's core business strength and present it in a catalogue show.
"The event will provide an opportunity for interaction between Saudi and Pakistani businessmen, government representatives and members of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry," Shahid Karee Allah, the Pakistani Ambassador said.
He added the event will display material from nearly 50 leading Pakistani companies and their council.
The four-day event will bring together leading representatives from the public and private sectors.
The ambassador said the first day will feature trade opportunities about the next three days and focus on the investment climate in Pakistan, while day three will introduce several sectors in Pakistan.
Speeches by the president of Jeddah's Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Pakistani government representatives and Pakistan's ambassador and Consul General, will make up part of the second day's important events.
"There will be a meeting with the delegation representing Pakistani businesswomen, followed by a session with local Saudi businesswomen," Shahid said. "The final event of the day will be handing out awards to Saudi businessmen."
Projecting the investment potential of Pakistan will be another second-day event, including as a special surprise a panel discussion with representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Board of Investment, the Oil and Gas Development Corporation and the Islamic Development Bank.
"The final day will focus on the service sectors. There will be an interactive session and a "Friends of Pakistan" gala dinner for Pakistani businessmen," the ambassador added.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Consulate General of Pakistan will hold the second Pakistani Specific Week and Catalogue Show in Jeddah's Chambers of Commerce and Industry from November 3-7. Organizers are aiming to highlight Pakistan's core business strength and present it in a catalogue show.
"The event will provide an opportunity for interaction between Saudi and Pakistani businessmen, government representatives and members of the Chambers of Commerce and Industry," Shahid Karee Allah, the Pakistani Ambassador said.
He added the event will display material from nearly 50 leading Pakistani companies and their council.
The four-day event will bring together leading representatives from the public and private sectors.
The ambassador said the first day will feature trade opportunities about the next three days and focus on the investment climate in Pakistan, while day three will introduce several sectors in Pakistan.
Speeches by the president of Jeddah's Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Pakistani government representatives and Pakistan's ambassador and Consul General, will make up part of the second day's important events.
"There will be a meeting with the delegation representing Pakistani businesswomen, followed by a session with local Saudi businesswomen," Shahid said. "The final event of the day will be handing out awards to Saudi businessmen."
Projecting the investment potential of Pakistan will be another second-day event, including as a special surprise a panel discussion with representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Board of Investment, the Oil and Gas Development Corporation and the Islamic Development Bank.
"The final day will focus on the service sectors. There will be an interactive session and a "Friends of Pakistan" gala dinner for Pakistani businessmen," the ambassador added.
Canadian group will develop Medical Care
Thursday, 25 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Canadian Health Council will partner with the Saudi Central Council for the Adoption of Health Facilities to develop medical services in the Kingdom, including quality assessment and training. The agreement was made on Tuesday.
"We discussed cooperations in the development of standards, training of health workers, inspection of hospitals, and the evaluation of procedures," said Hashem Abdullah, Secretary General of the Saudi council.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The Canadian Health Council will partner with the Saudi Central Council for the Adoption of Health Facilities to develop medical services in the Kingdom, including quality assessment and training. The agreement was made on Tuesday.
"We discussed cooperations in the development of standards, training of health workers, inspection of hospitals, and the evaluation of procedures," said Hashem Abdullah, Secretary General of the Saudi council.
SABIC Posts SR20.02b Profit for First 9 Months
Wednesday, 24 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
RIYADH - The Saudi Basic Industries Company (SABIC) reported a SR20.02 billion profit during the nine months to September this year. The figure represents a 42 percent increase from the same period last year.
"SABIC's total production during the first nine months of 2007 stood at 40.9 million metric tons (mmt), compared with 36.3 mmt in the same period last year, an increase of 13 percent," said SABIC deputy board chairman Mohammed Al-Madhi. "Sales rose to 32.6 mmt compared to 28.9 mmt in the same period last year, an increase of 13 percent. Revenues were SR86.5 billion, an increase of 36 percent over the revenues generated in the same period last year," he said.
Corporate consolidated financial statements for the third quarter included the results of SABIC Innovative Plastics Company, which was established at the end of Aug. 2007 after the completion of the purchase of GE Plastics for $11.6 billion.
The full costs of the financing will be transferred to the new company.
The company also reported sales of 32.6 million tons this year compared to 28.9 million tons in the same period last year.
Al-Madhi also said the company's strong showing was a result of improvement in product pricing and expansion projects with the entry of ethylene plant Gelykol (United), iron rods factory (Iron) and the urea and ammonia factories (SAFCO).
By Adel Al-Malki
RIYADH - The Saudi Basic Industries Company (SABIC) reported a SR20.02 billion profit during the nine months to September this year. The figure represents a 42 percent increase from the same period last year.
"SABIC's total production during the first nine months of 2007 stood at 40.9 million metric tons (mmt), compared with 36.3 mmt in the same period last year, an increase of 13 percent," said SABIC deputy board chairman Mohammed Al-Madhi. "Sales rose to 32.6 mmt compared to 28.9 mmt in the same period last year, an increase of 13 percent. Revenues were SR86.5 billion, an increase of 36 percent over the revenues generated in the same period last year," he said.
Corporate consolidated financial statements for the third quarter included the results of SABIC Innovative Plastics Company, which was established at the end of Aug. 2007 after the completion of the purchase of GE Plastics for $11.6 billion.
The full costs of the financing will be transferred to the new company.
The company also reported sales of 32.6 million tons this year compared to 28.9 million tons in the same period last year.
Al-Madhi also said the company's strong showing was a result of improvement in product pricing and expansion projects with the entry of ethylene plant Gelykol (United), iron rods factory (Iron) and the urea and ammonia factories (SAFCO).
Prez learns about KSA
Wednesday, 24 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Finnish President Tarja Halonen and her delegation visited the historical downtown area of Jeddah on Monday, including the Naseef House and the old markets.
Sami Nawar, Director of Tourism and Culture Department, said that President Halonen was welcomed with traditional dances.
Inside the Naseef House, Halonen watched the documentary that tells the story of Jeddah from 500 years back. She was later given a detailed explanation of the materials and methods used in building the houses, monuments and other establishments in the area, and the important role Jeddah plays as gateway to the Two Holy Mosques.
Before leaving the area, President Halonen bought dresses from the traditional markets.
Nawar said the President was impressed with downtown Jeddah that has remained a witness to an important past era of Saudi Arabia.
By Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - Finnish President Tarja Halonen and her delegation visited the historical downtown area of Jeddah on Monday, including the Naseef House and the old markets.
Sami Nawar, Director of Tourism and Culture Department, said that President Halonen was welcomed with traditional dances.
Inside the Naseef House, Halonen watched the documentary that tells the story of Jeddah from 500 years back. She was later given a detailed explanation of the materials and methods used in building the houses, monuments and other establishments in the area, and the important role Jeddah plays as gateway to the Two Holy Mosques.
Before leaving the area, President Halonen bought dresses from the traditional markets.
Nawar said the President was impressed with downtown Jeddah that has remained a witness to an important past era of Saudi Arabia.
Zoujaj profits Decline
Monday, 22 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE National Co. for Glass Industries on Sunday reported that preliminary profits as of September fell 17 percent to SR61.5 million from SR73.7 million during the same period last year.
"The main reason of this decrease is the decline in profits securities," Yousef Saleh Aba Al-Khail, Zoujaj chairman, said in a disclosure to the Saudi Stock Exchange. Aba Al-Khail also noted nine-month revenues were up 138 percent to SR21.2 million from SR8.9 million last year while operating profits also rose to SR55 million versus SR33.2 million for the same period last year.
"The company was also able to increase its investments in the shares of companies by 24 percent by the end of the third quarter at SR230 million compared with SR186 million for the same period of 2006," he said.
He noted that last year's production halt the company's plant in Riyadh resulted into lower sales and profits.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE National Co. for Glass Industries on Sunday reported that preliminary profits as of September fell 17 percent to SR61.5 million from SR73.7 million during the same period last year.
"The main reason of this decrease is the decline in profits securities," Yousef Saleh Aba Al-Khail, Zoujaj chairman, said in a disclosure to the Saudi Stock Exchange. Aba Al-Khail also noted nine-month revenues were up 138 percent to SR21.2 million from SR8.9 million last year while operating profits also rose to SR55 million versus SR33.2 million for the same period last year.
"The company was also able to increase its investments in the shares of companies by 24 percent by the end of the third quarter at SR230 million compared with SR186 million for the same period of 2006," he said.
He noted that last year's production halt the company's plant in Riyadh resulted into lower sales and profits.
600,000 visit Obhur Festival
Sunday, 21 October 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The traditional village at Obhur Cove built for the recent Jeddah Festival at Eid will be expanded five times over to become the city's tourist front and cultural and recreational center.
The decision by Jeddah Municipality to enlarge the village to cover 210,000 square meters from 45,000 square meters was prompted by the overwhelming number of sightseers - approximately 600,000 - that visited the site during the Jeddah Festival. The municipality has also selected the poets to participate in "The Poet of Jeddah" contest to be held at the traditional village.
Sami Nawar, director of tourism department in Jeddah Municipality, said that apart from cultural and intellectual activities, the village will also be used for the benefit of amateur craftsmen, artists, and actors.
Maher Mutairi, a young poet, lauded the municipality for providing them with plenty of opportunities to hone their crafts.
"Such a contest takes us back to the days when Arabs held meetings for poets in places like the well-known Souk of Okaz," he said.
A film documentary that traces the history of Jeddah from 3,000 years back will also be shown in the village.
The movie will show the role Jeddah plays in the development of Islamic history and its importance as the gateway to the Two Holy Mosques and as one of the Kingdom's largest cities.
Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, Media Director at the municipality, said a report on the economic returns of the village is being prepared.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
JEDDAH - The traditional village at Obhur Cove built for the recent Jeddah Festival at Eid will be expanded five times over to become the city's tourist front and cultural and recreational center.
The decision by Jeddah Municipality to enlarge the village to cover 210,000 square meters from 45,000 square meters was prompted by the overwhelming number of sightseers - approximately 600,000 - that visited the site during the Jeddah Festival. The municipality has also selected the poets to participate in "The Poet of Jeddah" contest to be held at the traditional village.
Sami Nawar, director of tourism department in Jeddah Municipality, said that apart from cultural and intellectual activities, the village will also be used for the benefit of amateur craftsmen, artists, and actors.
Maher Mutairi, a young poet, lauded the municipality for providing them with plenty of opportunities to hone their crafts.
"Such a contest takes us back to the days when Arabs held meetings for poets in places like the well-known Souk of Okaz," he said.
A film documentary that traces the history of Jeddah from 3,000 years back will also be shown in the village.
The movie will show the role Jeddah plays in the development of Islamic history and its importance as the gateway to the Two Holy Mosques and as one of the Kingdom's largest cities.
Ahmed Al-Ghamdi, Media Director at the municipality, said a report on the economic returns of the village is being prepared.
Jazeera Bank in takeover Talks
Sunday, 21 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
Al-Jazeera Bank is now engaged in bilateral discussions with the National Installment Company for the bank's offer to acquire 51 percent ownership of the company by increasing its SR100 million capital.
Taha Al-Guaiz, CEO of Al-Jazeera Bank said that by acquiring the National Installment Company, the bank aims to expand in the individual financing sector, which is considered one of the strategic priorities of Islamic individual banking services. Yousef Al-Hamdan, CEO of the National Installment Company, expressed his satisfaction with the bank's plans, noting that by becoming a larger entity they can serve a larger sector of clients in the Kingdom.
By Adel Al-Malki
Al-Jazeera Bank is now engaged in bilateral discussions with the National Installment Company for the bank's offer to acquire 51 percent ownership of the company by increasing its SR100 million capital.
Taha Al-Guaiz, CEO of Al-Jazeera Bank said that by acquiring the National Installment Company, the bank aims to expand in the individual financing sector, which is considered one of the strategic priorities of Islamic individual banking services. Yousef Al-Hamdan, CEO of the National Installment Company, expressed his satisfaction with the bank's plans, noting that by becoming a larger entity they can serve a larger sector of clients in the Kingdom.
Consumers Complain of Holiday Price Bump
Sunday, 07 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH'S branch of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a plan to monitor prices during Eid, responding to shoppers' complaints that stores are taking advantage of both Ramadan and Eid to raise prices, and even sell them products that are not genuine. The office has even started sending out inspectors to make sure prices are in their usual ranges.
Mohammed Al-Harbi, director of the branch, said that they want to make sure that items are available for people at a fair price, adding that a main objective is to check expiry dates.
"We also tour factories and warehouses to ensure consumers get safe products," he said.
Despite the rise in prices during Ramadan, Harbi expected that prices of Eid staples - confections, dates, beverages and even clothes - would be normal.
"We have more than 15 inspectors to watch markets beginning the last 10 days of Ramadan running through Eid," Harbi said.
He added that his inspection group works 24 hours a day, and that inspectors are authorized to seize any expired products.
Abdullah Mohammed, a shopper in Al-Bawadi Market, said he believed that the postponement of shopping until the last 10 days of Ramadan makes shoppers easy prey.
Umm Hani, 35, also complained that the majority of goods sold were supposedly brands but weren't.
"Many of the pieces we bought changed color as soon as the first washing ... in addition to the big differences in price this time of year, this "holiday season" is a game and a sham and a lie and propaganda to get rich off the backs of us shoppers," she said.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
JEDDAH'S branch of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry has set up a plan to monitor prices during Eid, responding to shoppers' complaints that stores are taking advantage of both Ramadan and Eid to raise prices, and even sell them products that are not genuine. The office has even started sending out inspectors to make sure prices are in their usual ranges.
Mohammed Al-Harbi, director of the branch, said that they want to make sure that items are available for people at a fair price, adding that a main objective is to check expiry dates.
"We also tour factories and warehouses to ensure consumers get safe products," he said.
Despite the rise in prices during Ramadan, Harbi expected that prices of Eid staples - confections, dates, beverages and even clothes - would be normal.
"We have more than 15 inspectors to watch markets beginning the last 10 days of Ramadan running through Eid," Harbi said.
He added that his inspection group works 24 hours a day, and that inspectors are authorized to seize any expired products.
Abdullah Mohammed, a shopper in Al-Bawadi Market, said he believed that the postponement of shopping until the last 10 days of Ramadan makes shoppers easy prey.
Umm Hani, 35, also complained that the majority of goods sold were supposedly brands but weren't.
"Many of the pieces we bought changed color as soon as the first washing ... in addition to the big differences in price this time of year, this "holiday season" is a game and a sham and a lie and propaganda to get rich off the backs of us shoppers," she said.
Residents Complain of Smoke from Garbage
Saturday, 06 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
SOME residents of North Jeddah have vacated their homes to escape the smoke emitted by a garbage yard located in the east of the city.
"It's only the second day but we can't stand it anymore. I had to take my family to my brother's house," said Ahmad Al-Sheikh, of the Al-Marwah neighborhood. Al-Sheikh said the residents have complained to the municipality about the proximity of the garbage yard to residents. He pointed out that in other countries, garbage yards are located in remote areas with a private entity tasked to responsibly look after the disposal of the gas.
Many children and elderly people sought refuge in the Al-Salaam Clinic.
Sa'ad Al-Sayali, another affected resident, said he had stayed in the clinic for two nights in a row because the smoke from the garbage yard has been worsening the asthma of his kids.
"The smoke just keeps following us," he said.
Other residents also reported developing chest diseases since the pollution started.
Al-Marwah resident Ali Hadi said that they thought the municipality had taken care of the problem when they stopped smelling and detecting smoke for two months.
However, the smoke returned stronger than ever and lasted longer, usually overnight.
Salem Al-Harbi of Al-Rabee district said the smoke has driven family away. He recounted inviting his cousin to stay in his house who then left just two weeks later - with bad memories of the smoke and a bad case of asthma.
The municipality is said to be working on relocating the garbage yard to 25 km away from Jeddah in the next three years, and turning the current site into a park.
By Adel Al-Malki
SOME residents of North Jeddah have vacated their homes to escape the smoke emitted by a garbage yard located in the east of the city.
"It's only the second day but we can't stand it anymore. I had to take my family to my brother's house," said Ahmad Al-Sheikh, of the Al-Marwah neighborhood. Al-Sheikh said the residents have complained to the municipality about the proximity of the garbage yard to residents. He pointed out that in other countries, garbage yards are located in remote areas with a private entity tasked to responsibly look after the disposal of the gas.
Many children and elderly people sought refuge in the Al-Salaam Clinic.
Sa'ad Al-Sayali, another affected resident, said he had stayed in the clinic for two nights in a row because the smoke from the garbage yard has been worsening the asthma of his kids.
"The smoke just keeps following us," he said.
Other residents also reported developing chest diseases since the pollution started.
Al-Marwah resident Ali Hadi said that they thought the municipality had taken care of the problem when they stopped smelling and detecting smoke for two months.
However, the smoke returned stronger than ever and lasted longer, usually overnight.
Salem Al-Harbi of Al-Rabee district said the smoke has driven family away. He recounted inviting his cousin to stay in his house who then left just two weeks later - with bad memories of the smoke and a bad case of asthma.
The municipality is said to be working on relocating the garbage yard to 25 km away from Jeddah in the next three years, and turning the current site into a park.
Emaar, Saudi Bin Laden Group Partnership
Friday, 05 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar.E.C), has signed a SR129 million contract with the Saudi Bin Laden Group to build a 13-kilometer road from the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) main gate to the Bay La Sun Village, a residential community within KAEC. Dr. Abdulraouf Mannaa, managing director of Emaar.E.C, signed the contract with Engr. Omar Bin Laden, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Binladen Group.
The road will be finished in seven months, a company statement noted.
KAEC is the single largest private sector-led project with six key components: the seaport, the industrial zone, the central business district, the resort district, the educational zone and the residential Communities.
Work is progressing according to schedule on the various zones while industrial and residential areas have already been opened for investors.
By Adel Al-Malki
Emaar, The Economic City (Emaar.E.C), has signed a SR129 million contract with the Saudi Bin Laden Group to build a 13-kilometer road from the King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) main gate to the Bay La Sun Village, a residential community within KAEC. Dr. Abdulraouf Mannaa, managing director of Emaar.E.C, signed the contract with Engr. Omar Bin Laden, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Binladen Group.
The road will be finished in seven months, a company statement noted.
KAEC is the single largest private sector-led project with six key components: the seaport, the industrial zone, the central business district, the resort district, the educational zone and the residential Communities.
Work is progressing according to schedule on the various zones while industrial and residential areas have already been opened for investors.
New Stock offerings Up
Friday, 05 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved the public subscription of three insurance companies. All companies will be floated above SR10 per share from October 27 to November 3, the CMA noted. Union Cooperative Insurance, with a capital of SR250 million, will float 10.5 million representing 42 percent of the company's total shares, Eagle Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million, in turn will float 8.4 million shares or equal to 42 percent of all issued shares while the Arab Cooperative Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million will float 8 million shares public subscription, representing 40 percent of its total stock issuances.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Capital Market Authority (CMA) has approved the public subscription of three insurance companies. All companies will be floated above SR10 per share from October 27 to November 3, the CMA noted. Union Cooperative Insurance, with a capital of SR250 million, will float 10.5 million representing 42 percent of the company's total shares, Eagle Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million, in turn will float 8.4 million shares or equal to 42 percent of all issued shares while the Arab Cooperative Insurance Company, with a capital of SR200 million will float 8 million shares public subscription, representing 40 percent of its total stock issuances.
Complaints on Price Hikes Prompt Meeting
Wednesday, 03 October 2007
By Adel Al-Malki & Mohannad Sharawi
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has received no less than 2,156 calls from consumers complaining about the price hike in commodities in the last six months despite the establishment of the Department of Consumer Protection.
To follow-up on the issue, Minister of Commerce and Industry Hesham Yamani recently held a meeting with the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and importers of vegetable oil, sugar, meat, milk powder and others. Almost all the factors identified in the meeting that caused the price increase are external: low production of agricultural crops on a global scale, the increased demand and purchase of products by China, India, Iran and other European and Asian countries, the Dollar-Riyal exchange rate, high oil price that pushed import and export cost, and inflation.
Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, the director of Media Department in JCCI, emphasized, however, that the prices of commodities in the Kingdom are still competitive with neighboring countries.
The authorities pledged to continue monitoring prices and to find solutions to prevent more escalations.
The Shoura Council in the last six months has received more than 40 questions on the high prices of food items, construction and real state.
By Adel Al-Malki & Mohannad Sharawi
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has received no less than 2,156 calls from consumers complaining about the price hike in commodities in the last six months despite the establishment of the Department of Consumer Protection.
To follow-up on the issue, Minister of Commerce and Industry Hesham Yamani recently held a meeting with the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and importers of vegetable oil, sugar, meat, milk powder and others. Almost all the factors identified in the meeting that caused the price increase are external: low production of agricultural crops on a global scale, the increased demand and purchase of products by China, India, Iran and other European and Asian countries, the Dollar-Riyal exchange rate, high oil price that pushed import and export cost, and inflation.
Ahmad Al-Ghamdi, the director of Media Department in JCCI, emphasized, however, that the prices of commodities in the Kingdom are still competitive with neighboring countries.
The authorities pledged to continue monitoring prices and to find solutions to prevent more escalations.
The Shoura Council in the last six months has received more than 40 questions on the high prices of food items, construction and real state.
Tourism Festival in Jeddah at Eid
Monday, 01 October 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
A PARADE of boats, a fishing contest and a safe diving event will be held in the five-day Obhur Tourism Festival beginning on the first day of Eid.
Private citizens will join the Coast Guard in the boat parades daily from 4 to 6 P.M. The fishing contest will be held on the fourth day of the festival from 5 A.M. to 5 P.M. Also, a safe diving event that aims to raise awareness among divers on how to preserve the marine environment will be held on the third and fourth day of the festival.
Saleh Al-Turki, head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) that organized the festival, said holding these activities in Jeddah is apt since the city "is different from others with many visitors marveling at the sites they see here."
The Obhur Festival will be held under the patronage of Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
A PARADE of boats, a fishing contest and a safe diving event will be held in the five-day Obhur Tourism Festival beginning on the first day of Eid.
Private citizens will join the Coast Guard in the boat parades daily from 4 to 6 P.M. The fishing contest will be held on the fourth day of the festival from 5 A.M. to 5 P.M. Also, a safe diving event that aims to raise awareness among divers on how to preserve the marine environment will be held on the third and fourth day of the festival.
Saleh Al-Turki, head of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) that organized the festival, said holding these activities in Jeddah is apt since the city "is different from others with many visitors marveling at the sites they see here."
The Obhur Festival will be held under the patronage of Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region.
Pakistan Consulate to Build New Facilities
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
Pakistan Consulate to Build New Facilities
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
By Abdullah Al-Hariri And Adel Al-Malki
THE 175,000 Pakistanis who are expected to arrive in the Kingdom for Haj this season will be well taken care of, said Pakistan Consul General Zaigham Uddin Azam.
"We are there every step of the way from the moment they arrive in the Haj terminal, to helping them book accommodations according to their budget in Makkah and Madinah," he said.
Azam said Pakistani pilgrims need special attention since many of them are between the ages of 70 and 80. "(And) there are very few rich people in Pakistan, so it is likely that those who perform Umrah took a long time to save up for it," he said.
To further aid their citizens year round, a new building to house the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah is being constructed.
The new building will have a portion with dining and sports facilities, another portion to house small clinics, a third portion holding marriages, a fourth with an exhibition hall, among others.
"Our aim is to be able to serve up to 1,000 people in 30 minutes," he said.
When asked about the Pakistanis who were arrested by the Saudi police during the celebration of Pakistan Day last month, Azam said their citizens should have respected Saudi law.
"What they did is something not approved by anyone - not even their parents. The police have already freed eight people out of 28 arrested, and I think the sentence of one month incarceration has already been completed," said Azam.
Also, he said, the economy of Pakistan remains stable despite the ongoing political situation there that Azam describes as not uncommon for a democratic society.
"Sometimes the opposition has the upper hand, sometimes it's the government," he said. "It's a see-saw."
Fortunately, he said, legislation has been put in place to protect outside and domestic investors in Pakistan.
The Consul General added that the government has been in constant dialogue with opposition parties whose demands are considered and accommodated "if these are suitable to the government."
Does he expect Benazir Bhutto to be the next Prime Minister?
"The law says that a Prime Minister can only be elected for two terms and Benazir Bhutto wants to be Prime Minister for a third time," he said.
"For that to happen, the constitution has to be amended with a two-thirds majority."
Drive Down a Street, Drive back a Road
Sunday, 30 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
THE Numbering and Labeling Department in Jeddah Municipality has completed renumbering streets and improving sign boards all over the city.
Al-Shareef Hussein, the department director, said they renumbered roads from north to south with double-digit numbers, and from west to east with one-digit numbers. The number increases the farther an establishment is from the coast. The new numbering system divided Jeddah into four main sectors, each subdivided into districts, then into small neighborhoods with main streets in-between.
Numbers 1001 to 1999 are for streets in the north-western part of the city; 2001 to 2199 for the north-eastern part; 3001 to 3199 for the south-eastern parts; and 4001 to 4199 for the southern-western parts.
Hussein said that the 60 and 70 Streets will retain their old names and numbers while residents acquaint with the changes in the rest.
"The new number system will make it easier for visitors and drivers to know and locate each place," said Hussein.
Jeddah Municipality has also completed classifying streets into major roads, streets and paths. It defined main road as one that cuts across districts and have at least three lanes.
"The combined streets are the streets that have no service lines and cross more than a district, like Hera'a Street," he said.
"Subsidiary streets serve only one district and have one or two lanes."
According to the new classification, there will be 16 main roads in Jeddah. Among these are Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz, Prince Sultan, Prince Mete'eb, Prince Majed, Al-Andalus, Sari, Al-Makaronh, Abdul-Allah Suliman and Palestine Street.
Around 50 newly designed signboards will be erected in the main road intersections.
Some 11 neighborhoods were given names. The signboards to be erected in the streets of these newly named neighborhoods will have a brief history of its namesakes.
Signboards in Mushrifah, Al-Aziziyah and in 42 other districts were improved.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
THE Numbering and Labeling Department in Jeddah Municipality has completed renumbering streets and improving sign boards all over the city.
Al-Shareef Hussein, the department director, said they renumbered roads from north to south with double-digit numbers, and from west to east with one-digit numbers. The number increases the farther an establishment is from the coast. The new numbering system divided Jeddah into four main sectors, each subdivided into districts, then into small neighborhoods with main streets in-between.
Numbers 1001 to 1999 are for streets in the north-western part of the city; 2001 to 2199 for the north-eastern part; 3001 to 3199 for the south-eastern parts; and 4001 to 4199 for the southern-western parts.
Hussein said that the 60 and 70 Streets will retain their old names and numbers while residents acquaint with the changes in the rest.
"The new number system will make it easier for visitors and drivers to know and locate each place," said Hussein.
Jeddah Municipality has also completed classifying streets into major roads, streets and paths. It defined main road as one that cuts across districts and have at least three lanes.
"The combined streets are the streets that have no service lines and cross more than a district, like Hera'a Street," he said.
"Subsidiary streets serve only one district and have one or two lanes."
According to the new classification, there will be 16 main roads in Jeddah. Among these are Mohammad bin Abdul Aziz, Prince Sultan, Prince Mete'eb, Prince Majed, Al-Andalus, Sari, Al-Makaronh, Abdul-Allah Suliman and Palestine Street.
Around 50 newly designed signboards will be erected in the main road intersections.
Some 11 neighborhoods were given names. The signboards to be erected in the streets of these newly named neighborhoods will have a brief history of its namesakes.
Signboards in Mushrifah, Al-Aziziyah and in 42 other districts were improved.
Fasting Improperly leads to Weight Gain at Ramadan – Studies
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
STUDIES show that many people gain weight in Ramadan from bad eating habits including overindulgence in food high in oil and sugar.
Most who gain weight during the season eat breakfast for just under ten minutes followed by dessert. The fast and over consumption of food results to energy not being used up, thus, stored in the body as fats. Some Muslims have made fasting in Ramadan an excuse to overindulge in food between sunset and sunrise.
Muneera Al-Harbi , a nutritionist in the International Medical Center in Jeddah, said there is this wrong notion that if one eats large amount of food, it will serve as a reserve for them not to feel hungry the next day. Doing so only disrupts the metabolism, she said.
Housewives are advised to cook healthy food . "Go for more poached and barbecued food, while minimizing the use of margarine, butter, and corn oil," said Muneera.
Variety in food is key to healthy eating. Eating vegetables and fruits everyday is ideal. Do not skip the sahour meal but do not overeat by then, either.
Al-Harbi said a change in the preparation of sahour and iftar might help to make these healthier.
"And do not count the number of hours you spend on fasting. Doing so will only drive you to eat more before and after to ‘compensate.' Remember that after sahour, you will be inactive for several hours, thus, slowing down your metabolism," said Muneera.
Chew food slowly especially in breaking the fast to help the digestive system readapt to eating. Drink eight glasses of water and drink juice that have not been artificially sweetened. Exercise for 30 min. at least four times a week. Lessen intake of milk high on butterfat, meat, cream and fried food.
By Adel Al-Malki
STUDIES show that many people gain weight in Ramadan from bad eating habits including overindulgence in food high in oil and sugar.
Most who gain weight during the season eat breakfast for just under ten minutes followed by dessert. The fast and over consumption of food results to energy not being used up, thus, stored in the body as fats. Some Muslims have made fasting in Ramadan an excuse to overindulge in food between sunset and sunrise.
Muneera Al-Harbi , a nutritionist in the International Medical Center in Jeddah, said there is this wrong notion that if one eats large amount of food, it will serve as a reserve for them not to feel hungry the next day. Doing so only disrupts the metabolism, she said.
Housewives are advised to cook healthy food . "Go for more poached and barbecued food, while minimizing the use of margarine, butter, and corn oil," said Muneera.
Variety in food is key to healthy eating. Eating vegetables and fruits everyday is ideal. Do not skip the sahour meal but do not overeat by then, either.
Al-Harbi said a change in the preparation of sahour and iftar might help to make these healthier.
"And do not count the number of hours you spend on fasting. Doing so will only drive you to eat more before and after to ‘compensate.' Remember that after sahour, you will be inactive for several hours, thus, slowing down your metabolism," said Muneera.
Chew food slowly especially in breaking the fast to help the digestive system readapt to eating. Drink eight glasses of water and drink juice that have not been artificially sweetened. Exercise for 30 min. at least four times a week. Lessen intake of milk high on butterfat, meat, cream and fried food.
Car, Balad Parades Liven up Streets of Jeddah
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
IT took motorists more than an hour-and-a-half to cover the 3-km distance. In Jeddah's Al-Tahlia Street and Corniche Road, everybody was seeing green.
Cars, with Saudi flags, had posted King Abdullah's photos. Others redecorated their cars with green and white stripes. Saudi Arabia's National Day celebration was festive. There were signs everywhere: "For you my country", "Long live my country" and "Abdullah is in our Hearts".
"The National Day is one of our important days," Mohammed Al-Ghamdi said. "We should celebrate the day with love for our country and inspire the young to realize and recognize the victory of our great King Abdul Aziz."
A few were distributing flags for free. One of them, Mohammed Qurmali, said that the occasion renewed and reaffirmed Saudis' love and loyalty for their country and leadership.
"I went here early because I expected these people would come. I bought flags as well as a music player to play nationalist songs on the occasion," he said.
Jeddah celebrated the day by holding several activities in Jeddah's historic zone, during which citizens and expats alike participated.
"There will be lectures about the efforts of all of the Kings of Saudi Arabia," Sami Nawar, head of tourism and culture department in the municipality, said.
"There will also be competitions, prizes and an exhibition that will include pictures for King Abdul Aziz and his late sons," he added.
Traditional singers performed songs that praised the country and the King.
Nawar said that these events are to remind people of the history and successes of King Abdul Aziz.
"The historic area will remain open for people for four days so that visitors can take part in the celebrations," he added.
For the first time, Jeddah is using the latest technology to celebrate the national day, through sending Bluetooth messages. The technology is called Blue Media, which can send 30 messages a minute.
"This service will be in Al-Balad area and many other parts of Jeddah to allow mobile users to send and receive a group of messages along the year, and on various occasions," Nawar said.
By Adel Al-Malki and Mohammed Al-Kinani
IT took motorists more than an hour-and-a-half to cover the 3-km distance. In Jeddah's Al-Tahlia Street and Corniche Road, everybody was seeing green.
Cars, with Saudi flags, had posted King Abdullah's photos. Others redecorated their cars with green and white stripes. Saudi Arabia's National Day celebration was festive. There were signs everywhere: "For you my country", "Long live my country" and "Abdullah is in our Hearts".
"The National Day is one of our important days," Mohammed Al-Ghamdi said. "We should celebrate the day with love for our country and inspire the young to realize and recognize the victory of our great King Abdul Aziz."
A few were distributing flags for free. One of them, Mohammed Qurmali, said that the occasion renewed and reaffirmed Saudis' love and loyalty for their country and leadership.
"I went here early because I expected these people would come. I bought flags as well as a music player to play nationalist songs on the occasion," he said.
Jeddah celebrated the day by holding several activities in Jeddah's historic zone, during which citizens and expats alike participated.
"There will be lectures about the efforts of all of the Kings of Saudi Arabia," Sami Nawar, head of tourism and culture department in the municipality, said.
"There will also be competitions, prizes and an exhibition that will include pictures for King Abdul Aziz and his late sons," he added.
Traditional singers performed songs that praised the country and the King.
Nawar said that these events are to remind people of the history and successes of King Abdul Aziz.
"The historic area will remain open for people for four days so that visitors can take part in the celebrations," he added.
For the first time, Jeddah is using the latest technology to celebrate the national day, through sending Bluetooth messages. The technology is called Blue Media, which can send 30 messages a minute.
"This service will be in Al-Balad area and many other parts of Jeddah to allow mobile users to send and receive a group of messages along the year, and on various occasions," Nawar said.
Young Saudis Paint their Cars Green
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
Turki A'al Ashaikh brought his car at a car shop and stayed there for four hours to watch his car painted with green and white stripes.
Thousands of young Saudis like Ashaikh celebrated the National Day that way.
"I wanted to express how much I love my country," he said. "And I'm not the only one who's doing this. I thought it wouldn't take me more than half an hour, but I was surprised to see ten more cars waiting." Coloring a car costs nearly SR200. And Ashaikh was ready to pay more than that just to be able to drive his car with green and white colors on the National Day.
Mishary Sabban is another young Saudi who did the same with his car. He even posted King Abdullah's picture on both sides of his car. He wished it was not Ramadan time.
"I wanted to play songs to celebrate this event, but it's Ramadan, he said. "I know many people don't want to hear music during Ramadan."
Unlike Ashaikh, Sabban colored the car himself.
"I went to one car shop and they wanted me to pay SR300. What I did instead is, I visited a stationery, picked some green colors and did it myself. It cost me no more than SR70," he said.
Fathers encourage their sons to celebrate the national day on their own way.
"I gave my son some money to paint his car in a way that goes with the event," Abdul Aziz Omari, a schoolteacher, said. "I even discussed with him where to post the leader's photos. He promised me not to take advantage of the occasion to do silly things," Omari added.
"Such support help instill patriotism in our youth," he said. "Our children should grow up loving their motherland. And we should continue handing these values down to the next generation," he said.
By Mohammed Al-Kinani and Adel Al-Malki
Turki A'al Ashaikh brought his car at a car shop and stayed there for four hours to watch his car painted with green and white stripes.
Thousands of young Saudis like Ashaikh celebrated the National Day that way.
"I wanted to express how much I love my country," he said. "And I'm not the only one who's doing this. I thought it wouldn't take me more than half an hour, but I was surprised to see ten more cars waiting." Coloring a car costs nearly SR200. And Ashaikh was ready to pay more than that just to be able to drive his car with green and white colors on the National Day.
Mishary Sabban is another young Saudi who did the same with his car. He even posted King Abdullah's picture on both sides of his car. He wished it was not Ramadan time.
"I wanted to play songs to celebrate this event, but it's Ramadan, he said. "I know many people don't want to hear music during Ramadan."
Unlike Ashaikh, Sabban colored the car himself.
"I went to one car shop and they wanted me to pay SR300. What I did instead is, I visited a stationery, picked some green colors and did it myself. It cost me no more than SR70," he said.
Fathers encourage their sons to celebrate the national day on their own way.
"I gave my son some money to paint his car in a way that goes with the event," Abdul Aziz Omari, a schoolteacher, said. "I even discussed with him where to post the leader's photos. He promised me not to take advantage of the occasion to do silly things," Omari added.
"Such support help instill patriotism in our youth," he said. "Our children should grow up loving their motherland. And we should continue handing these values down to the next generation," he said.
Charity Raises SR4.6 Million in Shares
Sunday, 23 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
AL-NOUR is the first charity project to have such valuable shares because each share aims to give Islamic aid to the poor people in the world, it was announced Wednesday during the Makkah Charity Association's first ceremony in Leilaty.
Each share, worth SR450, will financially help various charitable projects, believe members of the organization, who are devoted to printing the Holy Qura'n and distributing the income to the needy throughout the world. "The project aims to care for Muslim orphans and build care centers, schools and hospitals which sponsor orphans and systematically make them worthy members in their communities," Abdullah Nassif , the charity's chairman of the board, said during the ceremony.
A documentary about the institution and its role in charity work with orphans was shown during the ceremony.
Attendees donated over SR4,600,000 to Al-Shfa'a Center, which will care for orphans and the needy.
By Adel Al-Malki
AL-NOUR is the first charity project to have such valuable shares because each share aims to give Islamic aid to the poor people in the world, it was announced Wednesday during the Makkah Charity Association's first ceremony in Leilaty.
Each share, worth SR450, will financially help various charitable projects, believe members of the organization, who are devoted to printing the Holy Qura'n and distributing the income to the needy throughout the world. "The project aims to care for Muslim orphans and build care centers, schools and hospitals which sponsor orphans and systematically make them worthy members in their communities," Abdullah Nassif , the charity's chairman of the board, said during the ceremony.
A documentary about the institution and its role in charity work with orphans was shown during the ceremony.
Attendees donated over SR4,600,000 to Al-Shfa'a Center, which will care for orphans and the needy.
Prince asks for Patience
Thursday, 20 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
PRINCE Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of the Makkah region, has asked the citizens of Jeddah to be more patient with the ongoing projects undertaken by the municipality during the launch of the King Abdullah Road on Wednesday.
Prince Al-Faisal said that the completion of King Abdullah Road that serves to help ease the traffic jams in the city is but an example of the many projects the municipality has lined up that stands to transform Jeddah within five years' time. "I am sure the results (of all these projects) will be excellent," he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih said completing the King Abdullah Road, which links the east and west sides of the city, cost SR290 million.
The project involved the ongoing construction or reconstruction of the King Fahd Street, Al-Tawbah Street, Ra'as Al-Khaymah, and Khaled bin Al-Waleed Street, all of which intersect with the King Abdullah Road.
The municipality also installed lighting and traffic signs at the project sites.
Some 30,000 tons of cement approved by the Ministry of Transport was used in asphalting the roads.
By Adel Al-Malki
PRINCE Khaled Al-Faisal, the Emir of the Makkah region, has asked the citizens of Jeddah to be more patient with the ongoing projects undertaken by the municipality during the launch of the King Abdullah Road on Wednesday.
Prince Al-Faisal said that the completion of King Abdullah Road that serves to help ease the traffic jams in the city is but an example of the many projects the municipality has lined up that stands to transform Jeddah within five years' time. "I am sure the results (of all these projects) will be excellent," he said.
Jeddah Mayor Adel Faqih said completing the King Abdullah Road, which links the east and west sides of the city, cost SR290 million.
The project involved the ongoing construction or reconstruction of the King Fahd Street, Al-Tawbah Street, Ra'as Al-Khaymah, and Khaled bin Al-Waleed Street, all of which intersect with the King Abdullah Road.
The municipality also installed lighting and traffic signs at the project sites.
Some 30,000 tons of cement approved by the Ministry of Transport was used in asphalting the roads.
12-Month Multiple Entry Visa Boon for Business
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Council of Ministers on Monday met a long-standing demand of the private sector by making it far easier for foreign businessmen to visit Saudi Arabia.
Meeting in its weekly session chaired by King Abdullah at Al-Salama Palace in Jeddah, the Council approved 12-month multiple-entry visas for foreign businessmen. The visa issuance process has also been simplified under a fast-track procedure that avoids much of the cumbersome and delay-prone paperwork of the past.
From now on, Saudi embassies abroad will issue such visit visas to foreign businessmen and those in their category without the need for an invitation from a Saudi company or letter of introduction from a Saudi Chamber of Commerce, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Foreigners who qualify for business visas include businessmen, investors, representatives of foreign companies, managers, sales managers, sales representatives, accountants, production managers, administrative managers and consultants, according to Saudi embassy websites.
Monday's decision was made after the Council reviewed a proposal to grant non-Saudi businessmen visit visas at Saudi airports, said Iyad Amin Madani, Minister of Information and Culture, in a press briefing after the session.
For the business community, the new arrangement greatly eases up interaction with foreign businesses wanting to engage the Saudi market.
Abdul Rahman Al-Jeraisy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry lauded the decision as a big step forward.
Simplification of the business-visa process removes an obstacle that Saudi businessmen have been complaining about for years, he said.
The step will accelerate the flow of investments into the country and pave the way for more partnerships between foreign and Saudi investors, he said.
Al-Jeraisy said the Cabinet's response to the private sector's demand would give the national economy a strong thrust.
Business visas do not grant to the applicant the right to work or to reside in Saudi Arabia.
Nonetheless, business sources in Jeddah told The Saudi Gazette, the new arrangement will make it easier for Saudi companies to tap into highly skilled foreign manpower who prefer to be based in neighboring countries - Dubai in the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain, for example.
"They can now easily fly in and out as consultants," one source said.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Council of Ministers on Monday met a long-standing demand of the private sector by making it far easier for foreign businessmen to visit Saudi Arabia.
Meeting in its weekly session chaired by King Abdullah at Al-Salama Palace in Jeddah, the Council approved 12-month multiple-entry visas for foreign businessmen. The visa issuance process has also been simplified under a fast-track procedure that avoids much of the cumbersome and delay-prone paperwork of the past.
From now on, Saudi embassies abroad will issue such visit visas to foreign businessmen and those in their category without the need for an invitation from a Saudi company or letter of introduction from a Saudi Chamber of Commerce, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
Foreigners who qualify for business visas include businessmen, investors, representatives of foreign companies, managers, sales managers, sales representatives, accountants, production managers, administrative managers and consultants, according to Saudi embassy websites.
Monday's decision was made after the Council reviewed a proposal to grant non-Saudi businessmen visit visas at Saudi airports, said Iyad Amin Madani, Minister of Information and Culture, in a press briefing after the session.
For the business community, the new arrangement greatly eases up interaction with foreign businesses wanting to engage the Saudi market.
Abdul Rahman Al-Jeraisy, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce and Industry lauded the decision as a big step forward.
Simplification of the business-visa process removes an obstacle that Saudi businessmen have been complaining about for years, he said.
The step will accelerate the flow of investments into the country and pave the way for more partnerships between foreign and Saudi investors, he said.
Al-Jeraisy said the Cabinet's response to the private sector's demand would give the national economy a strong thrust.
Business visas do not grant to the applicant the right to work or to reside in Saudi Arabia.
Nonetheless, business sources in Jeddah told The Saudi Gazette, the new arrangement will make it easier for Saudi companies to tap into highly skilled foreign manpower who prefer to be based in neighboring countries - Dubai in the United Arab Emirates or Bahrain, for example.
"They can now easily fly in and out as consultants," one source said.
A Million ‘Quitters’ in Ramadan
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
The Anti-smoking Charitable Association has a program to help at least a million people quit smoking starting in Ramadan.
The association offers checkups in their office to determine how much help a smoker needs. "We measure the ratio of carbon monoxide in the body to the efficiency of the lung and heart," said Mohammed Al-Harthi, director of the association in the Makkah region. "There are also psychologists and social workers to counsel the patients."
Al-Harthi advises smokers to get rid of all ashtrays and lighters they have, and to drink more fresh juices. They should also stay away from other smokers during the first week and to avoid drinking coffee and tea.
Mosa'ad Telmes, a smoker who has decided to quit the habit this Ramadan, said that if a person can abstain from smoking for 12 hours while fasting, then it means he can extend doing so until he completely stops.
He admitted to have not initially gone cold turkey the first day. However, when his kids pointed out that he has already abstained from morning till breakfast time, Telmes realized that he has the willpower to drop the habit for good.
Yosef Ahmad, another smoker who has been into the habit for 32 years , stopped smoking on the eve of Ramadan upon advice of a friend.
He admits to have initially resented the advice, arguing that he began smoking at a young age and that "nicotine, not blood" courses through his veins.
"But the man insisted on his advice and before long, we found ourselves praying to Allah to help me quit smoking," said Ahmad who uses nicotine patches and chewing gum whenever he craves for cigarettes.
The biggest obstacle to quitting the habit is the craving during breakfast time, according to 21-year-old Saeed Saleh.
"Lighting a cigarette is the first thing some of my friend's do at breakfast," he said.
By Adel Al-Malki
The Anti-smoking Charitable Association has a program to help at least a million people quit smoking starting in Ramadan.
The association offers checkups in their office to determine how much help a smoker needs. "We measure the ratio of carbon monoxide in the body to the efficiency of the lung and heart," said Mohammed Al-Harthi, director of the association in the Makkah region. "There are also psychologists and social workers to counsel the patients."
Al-Harthi advises smokers to get rid of all ashtrays and lighters they have, and to drink more fresh juices. They should also stay away from other smokers during the first week and to avoid drinking coffee and tea.
Mosa'ad Telmes, a smoker who has decided to quit the habit this Ramadan, said that if a person can abstain from smoking for 12 hours while fasting, then it means he can extend doing so until he completely stops.
He admitted to have not initially gone cold turkey the first day. However, when his kids pointed out that he has already abstained from morning till breakfast time, Telmes realized that he has the willpower to drop the habit for good.
Yosef Ahmad, another smoker who has been into the habit for 32 years , stopped smoking on the eve of Ramadan upon advice of a friend.
He admits to have initially resented the advice, arguing that he began smoking at a young age and that "nicotine, not blood" courses through his veins.
"But the man insisted on his advice and before long, we found ourselves praying to Allah to help me quit smoking," said Ahmad who uses nicotine patches and chewing gum whenever he craves for cigarettes.
The biggest obstacle to quitting the habit is the craving during breakfast time, according to 21-year-old Saeed Saleh.
"Lighting a cigarette is the first thing some of my friend's do at breakfast," he said.
Canadian Minister to Talk Trade in Saudi
Monday, 17 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Canadian Commerce Minister will visit the Kingdom during the next two months to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations at an economic level.
A focus on investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia is expected during the visit. Additionally, Jeff Blackstone, Commercial Counselor at the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh, said developing co-operation between the private sectors in both countries, especially in the fields of environmental conservation and construction, will be another important issue. Blackstone praised the construction drive which has led to increased investment flows in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
Ahmad Sabri, Secretary-General of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce, said Saudi Arabia has seized 40 percent of the investment that is going into the Middle East and that figure is expected to grow in the next few years.
The government recently increased the number of student scholarships to Canada and the two countries hope to strengthen their bilateral trade, which exceeds SR4 billion according to 2004 estimates.
Five months ago a delegation of 40 Saudi businessmen, representing a number of Saudi companies as well as governmental institutions, visited Canada and signed trade contracts.
Trade trends are in the Kingdom's favor since Canada buys $5 billion of oil from here while Canadian companies are involved in economic projects, costing $540 million, in the Kingdom.
"A large number of Canadian companies want to contribute to these projects as well as railway plans in the Kingdom, as Canadian companies are very experienced in rail projects," Blackstone said.
By Adel Al-Malki
THE Canadian Commerce Minister will visit the Kingdom during the next two months to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral relations at an economic level.
A focus on investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia is expected during the visit. Additionally, Jeff Blackstone, Commercial Counselor at the Canadian Embassy in Riyadh, said developing co-operation between the private sectors in both countries, especially in the fields of environmental conservation and construction, will be another important issue. Blackstone praised the construction drive which has led to increased investment flows in the Middle East, particularly in Saudi Arabia.
Ahmad Sabri, Secretary-General of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce, said Saudi Arabia has seized 40 percent of the investment that is going into the Middle East and that figure is expected to grow in the next few years.
The government recently increased the number of student scholarships to Canada and the two countries hope to strengthen their bilateral trade, which exceeds SR4 billion according to 2004 estimates.
Five months ago a delegation of 40 Saudi businessmen, representing a number of Saudi companies as well as governmental institutions, visited Canada and signed trade contracts.
Trade trends are in the Kingdom's favor since Canada buys $5 billion of oil from here while Canadian companies are involved in economic projects, costing $540 million, in the Kingdom.
"A large number of Canadian companies want to contribute to these projects as well as railway plans in the Kingdom, as Canadian companies are very experienced in rail projects," Blackstone said.
Hospitals to raise Cancer Awareness
Monday, 17 September 2007
By Adel Al-Malki
A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness on the early detection of breast cancer will be mounted by the King Saud Hospital and King Fahd Hospital in Jeddah next month.
Iman Baroom, head of the organizing committee, said billboards will be put up along main roads, atop the biggest buildings, and in front of stoplights. Books and posters will be distributed in clinics, hospitals, schools and universities. A projector that flashes messages about the disease will be put up in the Jeddah fountain area.
The campaign will utilize SMS, include commercial spots to be aired over some satellite channels, and slogans on some food products.
A seminar on how health practitioners are to deal with and administer treatment to breast cancer patients was attended by more than 20 nurses at the Al-Hamra's Clinic Center.
The importance of using the mammogram for early detection of breast cancer was highlighted.
According to the MInistry of Health, there are 5,541 cases of breast cancer in the Kingdom. The annual total cost of treatment per patient is SR500,000.
Baroom said that most women hesitate to check if they have breast cancer until the disease has reached the stage when it is no longer treatable.
A study by King Abdulaziz Hospital in Jeddah show that the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the Kingdom are in the eastern province, Riyadh, the Makkah region, Tabuk and Al-Qassim.
The same study shows that women who breast-feed and bear children frequently are less prone to breast cancer.
By Adel Al-Malki
A CAMPAIGN to raise awareness on the early detection of breast cancer will be mounted by the King Saud Hospital and King Fahd Hospital in Jeddah next month.
Iman Baroom, head of the organizing committee, said billboards will be put up along main roads, atop the biggest buildings, and in front of stoplights. Books and posters will be distributed in clinics, hospitals, schools and universities. A projector that flashes messages about the disease will be put up in the Jeddah fountain area.
The campaign will utilize SMS, include commercial spots to be aired over some satellite channels, and slogans on some food products.
A seminar on how health practitioners are to deal with and administer treatment to breast cancer patients was attended by more than 20 nurses at the Al-Hamra's Clinic Center.
The importance of using the mammogram for early detection of breast cancer was highlighted.
According to the MInistry of Health, there are 5,541 cases of breast cancer in the Kingdom. The annual total cost of treatment per patient is SR500,000.
Baroom said that most women hesitate to check if they have breast cancer until the disease has reached the stage when it is no longer treatable.
A study by King Abdulaziz Hospital in Jeddah show that the highest incidence rates of breast cancer in the Kingdom are in the eastern province, Riyadh, the Makkah region, Tabuk and Al-Qassim.
The same study shows that women who breast-feed and bear children frequently are less prone to breast cancer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)