THE final round of the I-mobile Star Challenge 2007 has many surprises in store with performances from the 12 contestants on May 20 at the Lao International Trade and Exhibition Convention Centre (Lao-ITECC).

The Samart I-mobile phone company in Vientiane launched the challenge in the last few months, calling for talented young people to participate in a contest to find dynamic young presenters. From the 12 finalists, two will be selected to represent the company in commercial pitches on Thai television...more

“The final will showcase all of the props, skills and experience brought by the Thai artists involved in organising the event, so I can say with certainty that it will be a great event,” the Managing Director of the company, Ms Suphitcha Ramasoot, said.

The company selected 12 finalists at the semi-final, held at the National Culture Hall last month, to promote Lao culture, traditions and tourism in Luang Prabang and Vientiane provinces.

“The finalists participated in many activities with the Thai artists. Recently we recorded a video of the 12 contestants in various important places in Vientiane. We’ll also screen many of the activities at the final,” Ms Suphicha said.

Tickets are for sale at the event and also at I-mobile outlets for 20,000 kip. This is a change from the semi-final where tickets were not on sale to the general public.

“Our staff agreed to sell tickets because a lot of people called wanting to buy tickets to the semi-final. Because this Sunday is the last chance for the public to see the contest we decided to sell tickets,” the director said.

The contest will feature local hard rock band The Cells, who are also booming in popularity in Thailand. They will share the stage with Thai singer Dom Pakonrum.
The contest starts at 7pm on May 20, at Lao-ITECC.

By SOUKNILUNDON SOUTHIVONGNORATH
vientianetimes

2007 is set to be a huge year for Millicom Laos. We’re evolving the popular Tango brand and introducing a range of exciting new services. In order to do this, we are aligning with the worldwide Millicom Group. This allows us to provide an even greater range of international services and products literally the best the world has to offer. A change of this magnitude requires a groundbreaking brand campaign, which is why ‘Tigo’ is becoming the new face of Tango. Tigo is a leading brand in over 13 countries an international byword for the best in mobile services.

People will soon become familiar with the Tigo brand and its distinctive slogan “Open up your world”
However, it’s important to note that this is more than just a new name or new look - Millicom Laos has invested over 10 million dollars in technological advancements and coverage improvements for TIGO. This significant move is evidence of Tigo’s commitment to continue the tradition of wide spread availability, with easily obtainable services at reasonable prices the company’s three core principles.

In his statement, Mr. Fabien Levassor the General Manager of Millicom Lao says he is confident that “Tigo will revolutionise the entire communication industry in Laos” and goes on to “welcome everybody to enjoy the Tigo difference.”

“While Millicom Laos is extremely proud of Tango’s history in Laos, we believe that Tigo will further reward our existing clients and attract new ones. We’ll maintain the call quality, accessibility and exemplary customer service that got us where we are. But we’ll also be offering a whole lot more to help take Laos into the future”.

So be sure to look out in the coming months, as Tigo announces even more ways for consumers to open up their world. With exciting new developments and services, the future’s bright for Tigo and Laos.