Cambodia in brief: February 16, 2017

© Pha Lina Government shutters 56 shelters Cambodia's government closed 56 shelters last year, the majority of them or­phanages, amid a major push to get thousands of children back into homes and out of institutional care after years of criticism, the Ministry of Social Affairs announced yesterday. READ MORE British murder suspect arrested Cambodian officials yesterday confirmed that the alleged “mastermind” behind the murder of British national Tony Kenway is in police custody in Phnom Penh. The suspect, Toby James Nelham, is suspected of ordering Kenway’s murder which took place in Pattaya, Thailand in January. READ MORE  Gov't floats new pay scheme When factories go bankrupt and garment workers are left out of pocket, they have little recourse but to take to the streets in protest. Minister of Labour Ith Sam Heng yesterday suggested fortnightly paychecks and yearly bonuses - in lieu of severance packages - could benefit workers and prevent demonstrations. READ MORE  Industry leaders voice concern over sky-high cost of electricity The high cost of electricity remains a top concern for investors, though the government is confident that increased domestic generation will soon bring prices down. READ MORE Tourism from Vietnam down as Chinese visitor numbers surge Vietnam remained the Kingdom's top source of international tourists, but China is catching up fast, according to newly released Tourism Ministry annual figures. READ MORE Vathanaka eyes promotion after Japan move Cambodia forward Chan Vathanaka has targeted promotion with Japanese third-division side Fujieda MYFC this year after completing a groundbreaking move to the J-League. The 23-year-old told local media yesterday that he hoped to make a smooth adjustment despite the chilly winter temperatures in Japan. READ MORE  Most popular story from yesterday © Heng Chivoan Party Law draws EU eyes A European parliamentarian has submitted a “priority question” to Europe’s high representative for foreign affairs, Frederica Mogherini, urging strong action against Cambodia in response to recent threats by Prime Minister Hun Sen to dissolve opposition parties. READ MORE