Vietnam can’t lose with Miss Universe 2008

Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong and Paula Mary Shugart, Chairwoman of the Organising Board of the Miss Universe pageant contest

VietNamNet Bridge – The government has approved Vietnam as the host of the Miss Universe pageant 2008. With $15 million in funding needed, where will the money come from? Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong, Chairman of the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, which is one of three organising partners of the Universe JS Company, outlines some details.

The government has approved organisation but has it agreed to financially support the event?

According to our plan, which was approved by the government, the funding will be raised by the member companies. However, we can only organise this event with the approval of the Government and under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and other relevant agencies.

Miss Universe 2005 in Thailand was half financed ($7 million) by the Thais Government and the rest by organisers but it still incurred a loss of over $1 million despite available infrastructure. Have you and your partners considered the financial burden of this contest, as we have to build all new facilities?

Our funding was raised by the three member companies of the Universe JS Company, the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, VIET CEO, and Hoan Cau Nha Trang. We have arranged the $7 million necessary for the contract between us and the Miss Universe organising board.

After signing, we will set up our own board that will raise funds through sponsorships and investments from both local and foreign companies.

It is estimated that the pageant will draw over 500 businessmen wanting learn about Vietnam’s business and trade environment. Despite possible difficulties and losses, this event will focus international attention on our country and should heighten Vietnam’s global status. That alone meets our definition of success.

As both businessman in and citizens of Vietnam, we are proud of doing our part to market Vietnam’s image to the world.

Do you think that local and foreign companies will invest in this event?

The Universe Company is prestigious and its members have substantial experience in acquiring valuable sponsorship. CIAT has 20 years of experience organising events. We have held many international festivals in Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau and Dak Lak so we have diverse and strong relationships with local and foreign companies.

I hope that businesses will see it this as a wonderful opportunity to advertise their brands, not only at home but also to the rest of the world.

What worries you the most about your upcoming October negotiation?

How to meet the deadlines, but with the support of the Government, I feel assured. Moreover, the Miss Universe board expects Vietnam to host the pageant; all that is left are the details.

Sources: Gia Dinh & Xa Hoi) and Vietnam Net Bridge