88-12 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from the WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. II, No. 12, December 1988 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans 1 Political Articles (Topics) 1 Students Returned Home 4 Press Conferences 5 Weapons Recovered 7 Curfew Hours Relaxed 8 Student Camp in Thailand 8 Student Deadline Extended 8 ELECTIONS Party Registrations 8 Party Reports Requested 15 DIPLOMATIC Burmese Ambassador to USSR 15 Foreign Ambassadors Received 15 Ambassador to Pakistan 16 Egyptian Ambassador Arrives 16 FOREIGN VISITORS Regional Red Cross Head 16 Thai Army Commander Visits 16 Foreign Tourists Arrive 18 Chinese Trade Delegation 18 BURMESE DELEGATIONS Burmese Palestine Position 18 BURMA GAZETTE Appointments Made 18 Probationary Appointments 18 Transfer and Appointment 19 GOVERNMENT Government Officials 19 Gen. Saw Maung Prime Minister 19 MILITARY Donations to Military 19 Insurgent Attacks 19 Insurgents Surrender 19 Report on Me-tha-waw Battle 20 ECONOMIC Foreign Investment Law 20 Trade Minister Explains Law 24 Chinese Border Trade 24 Services Resumed 24 Tour of Rice Areas 25 Car Import Rules 26 Minerals 26 Investment Commission Formed 27 Investment Procedures 27 Cooperative Laws Amended 31 Army Welfare Shops 32 Private Goods in Gov't Stores 32 Export Rules 32 Fishing Rights Agreements 33 New Train Ticket System 33 Wholesale Food Prices Down 33 Rainfall in Rangoon 33 HEALTH Ambulances for Hire 34 Indigenous Medicine Group 34 Blood Needed 34 CULTURAL Religious Examinations Set 34 Konbaung Period Writers 34 Articles Published 36 MISCELLANEOUS Marriages 36 Crime News 36 Subversive Crimes 37 Obituaries 37 Fire 38 Schooner Sinks 38 Squatters Removed 38 Make Rangoon Beautiful 39 Aung San's Widow Dies 39 Japanese Restaurant Ad 39 +-+-+-+-+ Issues for Dec. 4 and Dec. 26 not received. +-+-+-+-+ POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans The political slogans quoted in the November issue continued to appear in each issue of WPD throughout December. Political Articles (Topics) Following the pattern set in October and November, each issue contains one or more lengthy feature articles designed to bolster government views and policies. We note them briefly, but can provide copies if needed: Dec. 1-2: KIA insurgents or those destroying the beauty of the Kachin State, by Yebaw Thit Maung. [continued from November 28-30] (4) Subservient to BCP; exploitation of peace negotiations and the NDF. (5) The root was KNU spy dacoit gang, the wind fanning the flame was religion, the slogan was "the proletarian line" and their practical work was destructive work. [History of Kachin Independence Army-KIA insurgency from 1948 to date.] Dec. 1: The State Flag that should be held in high esteem, by Kaung Htet. [Demands respect for Burmese national flag -- defined as the 1974 flag with "pinion and paddy ears to represent workers and peasants and 14 equal sized stars {for the national racial groups}".] Dec. 2: Activities of the BCP during the 1958 split, by Kyaw Shinn. [BCP activities during the 1958 split of the AFPFL, extracted from pp. 67-74 of "The Split Story" by Sein Win.] Dec. 2: National Day and Patriotism, by Ko Myo Chit. [History of 1921 student strike, commemorated on the Dec. 3 National Day.] Dec. 3: Open Letter to Service Personnel, by A K Kyaw. [Work hard and trust the Government.] Dec. 3: The genuine spirit of patriotism, by Maung Wun-tha-nu. [Internationalism should not mean despising one's own country and culture.] Dec. 6: Duties of parents as first and foremost teachers of their children, by Maung Maung San. [Parents should keep teenagers from going wrong.] Dec. 6: Where are you, my younger sister? by Naw May Zun Chit. [Indignation at girl raped by KNU, and anecdotes of past KNU brutality.] Dec. 7: Eliminate Renegades inside and Sirens outside the country, by Saya San Net Kyaw. [Denunciation of BBC, VOA, and All India Radio, for alleging mistreatment of returning students.] Dec. 7: Behind the interference, by Hpo La Min. [Imperialism of Great Powers, based on geopolitics.] Dec. 8: I, the buyer, and they, the sellers, by Maung Maung San. [Burmese governments have always protected against exhorbitant food prices.] Dec. 9-11: The Tatmadaw has been sacrificing lives, blood and sweat for the country, by Yint Min Gaung. [History of anti-insurgency fighting.] Dec. 10: We await your return, our sons, by Khin Myint Maung. [Mothers await the return of misled students.] Dec. 10: For those who swear by BBC, by Ko Thaw Mana. [BBC is the opiate (heroin) of the Burmese people, with anecdote of BBC refusal to broadcast Aung San in 1947.] Dec. 11: When the strike comes to an end, by Khin Myo Swe (Nanshay). [The August disturbances in Mandalay.] Dec. 12: To keep oneself abreast of the times, by Ko Thawmana [Read the newspapers to be informed.] Dec. 12: Citizens and the prestige and honour of the State, by Thaukkyar Kyai. [Legal discussion of High Treason in Burmese law.] Dec. 13: Yesterday, today, tomorrow, by Sit-pyan Kan Tun. [Recent reorganization of the War Veterans Organization, now organized in 297 of the 314 Burmese townships--the exceptions being border areas in Kachin (Chipwe, Khawbude, Saw Law, Sumprabum, Nagmung, Ningchangyang), Kayah (Bawlake), Rangoon (Cocos Isl.), Sagaing (Lahe, Lai Shi), and Shan (Konkyan, Narphan, Pangyang, Pangwaing, Mongkhat, Mongmao, Manphant). Since its formation WVO has had 125,967 members.] Dec. 13: All that is sour is not lime, by San Nilar Win. [Don't believe rumors.] Dec. 14: The meaning of news coming from south-east border area of Burma, by Nyan Htet. [Structure of insurgent opposition and allies; as follows: National Democratic Front (NDF) consists of 10 groups, viz: (1) Karen insurgent group (KNU) with strength of about 3,500; (2) Kachin (KIA) with 2,700; (3) Rakhine (KLP) with over 80; (4) Mon (NMSP) with over 300; (5) Karenni (KNPP) with 500; (6) Wa (WNO) with over 300; (7) Shan (SSPP) with 885; (8) Pa-O (PNO) with 300; (9) Lahu (LNO) with 30; (10) Palaung (PSLO) with 150. 12 organizations have joined with this NDF to form the League for Democracy Alliance of Burma (DAB): (1) All-Burma Students Democratic Front with 1,000 "forced by KNU to join it" and formerly led by Chairman Ko Ko O and Secretary Ko Hla Aung, both now returned to Rangoon; (2) Association of Burma Muslims (ABM) with "small number of armed men"; (3) Chin National Front (CNF) with no armed men; (4) General Strike Committee (Rangoon) (GSC (Rangoon)) with no armed men; (5) Muslim Liberation Organization (MLO) composed of Rakine area Indians, with no armed men inside country; (6) National Unity Front of Arakanese (NUFA) existing in name only; (7) National Unity Party for Democracy (NUPD) with no armed forces; (8) People Patriotic Party (PPP) headed by expatriate U Thwin, with no armed forces; (9) Committee for the Restoration of Democracy (CRDB) headed by expatriate and naturalized American Tin Maung Win, with "small number of members in the West and has no armed forces"; (10) Overseas Karen National Organization (OKO) never heard of before; (11) People Liberation Front (PLF) [sic] never heard of before; (12) Overseas Burma Liberation Front (OBLF) never heard of before.] Dec. 14: Read, memorize and study, by Thukhi Aung. [Reading suggestions for a student "getting listless as the schools are closed."] Dec. 16: "Do things precisely, correctly, swiftly", by Maung Tha-ma-di. [The traditional motto will be even more important when foreign investors come.] Dec. 16: A visit of friendship by relatives, by Ye Yint Min Gaung. [Reprise of Thai Gen. Chavalit's visit.] Dec. 16-20: For perpetuation of Sangha Nayaka Committees, by Thaki Swe. [Demonstrations by young monks make organized discipline of the Sangha more necessary than ever; history of Sangha discipline and of the current system.] Dec. 17: The history of BCP, a record of evils, by Maung Tha-ma-di. [History since 1945.] Dec. 19: The background history of the students who have been used, by Mi Khin Thant. [Long letter about BCP exploitation of students over the years.] Dec. 20: Let us establish multi-party democratic practices through correct organizational work, by Kaung Htet. [Some parties are abusing privileges by sowing discord.] Dec. 21: Let me ask these questions, by Nay Balu. [Are not government critics really trying to get power without free elections?] Dec. 21: The joy after the eclipse had receded, by Saw Oo (Taungtha). [The "disturbances" in Taungtha Township, Mandalay Division.] Dec. 22: In the name of Democracy, by "One who aspires for Democracy." [Misbehavior in the name of democracy denounced.] Dec. 23: To remove corrupt service personnel, by Kyaw Khaung. [corrupt civil servants must be rooted out.] Dec. 23: "Godfathers" behind the scene, by Myo Htet. [Greedy merchants behind blackmarket, exhorbitant prices, and exploiting disturbances.] Dec. 23: Letter: Most powerful mass demonstration or excessive anarchism?, by "A War Veteran." [Disputes radio address on All India Radio by Bo Aung Kyaw, that this year's demonstrations were "most powerful" in Burmese history; they were destructive, and but for Army intervention "all of us wishing to live in peace would have been looted and beheaded."] (WPD 12/23) Dec. 24: The last problems of the BCP, by Nay Balu. [BCP and narcotics.] Dec. 24: A herculean task to safeguard at the cost of life, by Thagi. [Need to perpetuate the Sangha Nayaka Committees.] Dec. 24: A step which is worth a million crore, by Kyaw Zeya. [Importance of sticking to studies.] Dec. 25: Only having discipline will bring about elegance, by Maung Khaing Htet. [Obey the rules.] Dec. 25: Through a true story, by Moe Hti Aung. [A student who visited his uncle in Myawaddy tells of KNU atrocities.] Dec. 25: Let us live according to the wish of Jesus Christ, by Saw Kyaw Aye (Pabedan). [Christians should support the Restoration Council.] Dec. 27: Blackmarketeering and the insurgents, by Maung Po Hmat. [KNU, BCP, and KIA smuggling.] Dec. 28: Deeds not words shall stand witness, by Latt Myint Thein. [Tribute to Burma Army.] Dec. 29: With true goodwill and on a correct path, by Moe Hti Aung. [Students who had participated in demonstrations, now Red Cross volunteers, help wounded troops.] Dec. 30: The State and Public Service Personnel, by Nay Myo Naung. [Civil Service rules of conduct spelled out, including bans on "Writing books and pamphlets that will cause people to lose faith in the State or distributing them," and "Taking part in a movement that harms the security of the State and law and order or instigating or rendering help to such a movement"; only those who committed crimes, in addition to demonstrating, have been punished, and even they "were only permitted to retire."] Dec. 30: A journalist who wishes to tell truth about history, by Tetkatho Myat Thu. [Journalist who avoided demonstrations criticizes their supposed "leaders".] Dec. 31: The Mon insurgents are..., by Yebaw Thit Maung. 1. The first decade of their insurgency. [History of Mon insurgents from 1946.] [continued in January] Dec. 31: "Only honest efforts will give you benefits", by San Nilar Win. [Civil servants should work honestly.] Students Returned Home Lists continued of "absconded" students and youths who had defected to the insurgents, and have now returned to the reception camps set up by the government. The articles generally identify them by name, age, institution, and father's name and address. Sometimes students are quoted on conditions at insurgent camps, and atrocities committed against them there. Nov. 30: One youth arrived at the Htisakha camp Nov. 26; 2 at Mudon on Nov. 28. [names] Maung Thein Thein Oo (22) of RIT returned to the Myawaddy camp Nov. 28, and told how a Rangoon student was raped by two KNU insurgents at the KNU Methayi camp on Oct. 16, who tried to kill four students who witnessed the incident. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 1: 2 arrived at Myawaddy camp Nov. 28. [names] 4 students, part of a group of 9 sent by KNU Brigade 7 from the KNU Me-let-hta camp on Nov. 10 to destroy bridges, microwave towers, and paddy purchase depots between Bilin and Thaungzun, turned themselves in with rifles and rocket launchers and American grenades at Bilin [Mon] on Nov. 29. [names & photos] (WPD 12/2) Dec. 2: 2 from the same group arrived at Taungzun army station Nov. 30, and led soldiers to Kyaik-hti-yolay and a cache of arms and explosives given them by KNU insurgents from Me-let-hta camp. Another member of the group arrived at Bilin army station Dec. 1. (WPD 12/3) // Dec. 4: Details on their activities. [photos] (WPD 12/5) Dec. 4: 24 arrived at the Ka-lai-ti army station Dec. 2; 1 at Ye Nov. 30; 2 at Myawaddy Nov. 30 and Dec. 2; 2 at Taungoo Dec. 1; 4 at Mohnin [Kachin] Nov. 14-15; 4 at Yebyu Nov. 14; 5 at Thanbyuzayat Nov. 29; 2 at Moulmein Dec. 1; 5 at Taku [Tenasserim] Nov. 9; 7 at Tiddim [Chin] Oct. 25; 2 at Falam Nov. 17; 2 returned to Tamwe [Rgn] Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. [names] (WPD 12/5) Dec. 6: 10 arrived at Loikaw Nov. 29. [names] (WPD 12/8) Dec. 7: 2 students turned themselves in to the Burmese Embassy in Bangkok and were repatriated Dec. 6; they told of being illtreated by the KNU and by an Indian blackmarketeer at Korat in Thailand. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 8: 2 arrived in Mergui Dec. 5; 1 in Myawaddy Nov. 30; 4 returnees were sent from Moulmein to Rangoon Dec. 7. [names] (WPD 12/9) Dec. 10: 1 arrived at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 6; 5 at Pinlaung [Shan] Dec. 6-7; 2 at Mergui Dec. 2; 2 returned on their own to Rangoon Dec. 5-6. [names] (WPD 12/11) Dec. 11: 14 arrived at Taungoo Dec. 9. [names] (WPD 12/12) Dec. 13: 10 arrived at Mudon Nov. 29; 1 at Myawaddy Dec. 4 and 1 on Dec. 9; 1 at Kataingti army camp Dec. 6; 1 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 8; 1 at Falam Dec. 10. 1 returned to Mandalay Dec. 9.[names] (WPD 12/13) Dec. 15: On Dec. 11, 2 arrived at Shwegun army camp; 2 to Myawaddy; 1 to Mandalay. 6 arrived at Thanbyuzayat; 1 at Haka; 1 at Taungoo Dec. 12; 12 at Loikaw Dec. 14; 1 at Maymyo.[names] (WPD 12/16) Dec. 16: 7 arrived in Bilin Dec. 13; 5 reported to the No. 202 LIR Dec. 13; many brought demolition equipment. [names & photos reported in Press Conference] (WPD 12/17) Dec. 16: 14 arrived at Thanbyuzayat; 2 at Myaung-U Dec. 13; 1 at Pyu Dec. 13; 7 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 14; 1 at Kya-in-Seikkyi Dec. 14; 18 in Loikaw Dec. 16. [names] (WPD 12/18) Dec. 18: 2 arrived at Shwegun [Hlaingbwe Twp] Dec. 10; 2 at the Pyinmana army camp Dec. 14; 1 at Myawaddy Dec. 15 and 1 on Dec. 16; 4 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 17, for a total of 10. [names] (WPD 12/19) Dec. 20: 1 arrived at Pa-an Dec. 11; 1 at Kawthaung Dec. 12; 4 at Mudon Dec. 13; 3 at Aungban Dec. 14; 1 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 15; 4 at Moulmein Dec. 17; 1 at Myawaddy Dec. 18; 1 at Pegu Dec. 19, for a total of 15. [names] (WPD 12/21) Dec. 21: 1 arrived at Lawksawk Dec. 6; 2 at Langkho Dec. 6; 1 at Sitapu Dec. 13; 2 at Taunggyi Dec. 18; 1 at Toungoo Dec. 20; 1 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 20. [names] Meanwhile, 8 student-youths arrived back in Rangoon Dec. 21, from Pa-an and Moulmein, for transfer to their parents. [names] (WPD 12/23) Dec. 24: 1 arrived at Myitkyina Dec. 13; 2 at Sitarpu Dec. 13; 4 at Mudon Dec. 16; 2 at Falam Dec. 18; 1 at Yawnghwe Dec. 18; 1 at Reed [Chin?] Dec. 19; 1 at Mong Nai Dec. 19; 1 at Myawaddy Dec. 20 and 2 on Dec. 21; 1 at Mone Area Dec. 21; 1 at Hmawbi Dec. 22; 2 at Taunggyi Dec. 23. [names] (WPD 12/25) Dec. 29: 1 arrived at Myitkyina Dec. 19; 1 at Falam Dec. 23; 3 at Haka Dec. 24; 1 at Shwegun Dec. 22 and 1 on Dec. 24; 1 at Kyondoe Dec. 23; 2 at Myawaddy Dec. 24; 2 at Thanbyuzayat Dec. 24, 1 on Dec. 26, and 1 on Dec. 27; 5 at Moemeik Dec. 24; 1 at Mandalay Dec. 24; 1 at Kawthaung Dec. 25; 3 at Moulmein Dec. 26. [names] Five students turned themselves in near Thaton Dec. 27 with demolition equipment furnished by the KNU. (WPD 12/30) Press Conferences Dec. 2: The Information Committee of the State Law and Order Restoration Council held a Press Conference for domestic and foreign journalists, at which seven students returned from KNU insurgent camps told their stories. According to the students, the insurgents tried to exploit and divide them. There are still about 430 students and locals with the KNU, including 250 students at the Thay-baw-bo camp. Many want to return home, but are afraid because of "false news broadcast by the BBC and the VOA." The Committee for Restoration of Democracy in Burma, headed by expatriate Tin Maung Win collected donations from Burmans living in Britain, U.S.A., Israel, Denmark, Australia, and Thailand. They had collected about US$ 2 million, but not a cent has reached the students; the money was probably divided between the KNU and the Committee. The story of the rape of a girl by KNU insurgents [WPD 12/1] was repeated with further details, including the killing of her male companion. Foreigners visited the KNU camps. In October the Me-let-hta camp was visited by two Americans; a Colonel named Mr. Blue, and a Negro named "Stan" who took video pictures. Six foreign correspondents, from France, U.S.A., Thailand, and Denmark, visited and videotaped students. Three American citizens, 2 women and a man, visited. A British reporter staged photos of students holding guns, published in the Bangkok press. After the American congressman [see Nov. BPS] visited, the Thais cut the suspension bridge over the Thaungyin River "for it thought its name had gotten smeared." Various students were given guerilla training, including a one-week course by a Major Roger. Food was bad, and students were often not fed by the KNU, and do not received medical treatment. As of Nov. 25, 1,313 students had returned home from the insurgents. An additional 140 returned from Nov. 25-Dec. 1, for a total of 1,453. (WPD 12/3) Dec. 9: At the 16th weekly Press Conference the two students returned from Bangkok told their story, including their virtual enslavement by a "Rakhine Indian" animal smuggler. As of Dec. 1, 1,453 students had returned; between Dec. 2-8 an additional 68 returned, for a total of 1,521. Minister for Trade Col. Abel said border trade with China is flourishing, and has ended smuggling. Export items include cotton, duck feathers, dried fish and prawns, dried betels, fish skins, Ngahsibaung, pe-di-sein, chilli, betel, pe-boke, and sunkist. Imports include toothpaste, vacuum flasks, bicycles, soap powder, pencils, milk powder, paints, and plates. Branch Trade Department offices have been opened in Lashio, Muse, and Khuhkok. More than 100 motorcars daily go from Lashio to Muse, and development is rapid. Thailand is interested in border trade. Bangladesh wants to buy Burmese limestone, cement, forest products, fish, prawns and rice, and to sell iron pipes, wires, and soap powder. Co-operatives Minister Maj-Gen. Chit Swe said in the new Co-operatives Law preamble "the sections relating to the socialist economic system were deleted." [see ECONOMIC section, below] The new law will enable co-ops to compete with private traders. Arrangements are being made to open groceries at every Consumers Co-op. The Central Co-op Society was amended to reduce the Executive Committee from 24 to 7 members. Border trade will be opened in the Kawthaung area, beginning with fishery work carried out by 70 vessels. 19 foreign companies were asking about fishing licenses. Laws against fish smuggling are needed. (WPD 12/10) Dec. 16: At the 17th weekly official Press Conference, returned students displayed weapons they had been given by the KNU, and told of life in the KNU run camps. The Burmese Embassy in Bangkok has issued an announcement calling on all Burmese students in Thailand to report to the Embassy, and offering a reward of 5,000 baht to anyone bringing in a student, or informing about one who is later received by the Embassy by Dec. 31. (Text of notice printed). As of Dec. 9, 1,521 students had returned; from Dec. 10-15, 66 more returned, for a total of 1,587. Rumors that Ky 45 and Ky 90 currency notes are to be demonetized, and that Ky 50 and Ky 100 notes will be put into circulation again are false. A student asked for an extension of the Dec. 31 deadline for return of students, saying that the KNU is trying to prevent their return. The KNU is giving training in weapons and demolition. (WPD 12/17) Dec. 23: At the 18th official Press Conference, the LORC Information Committee said the following: A reception camp for students has been opened at Tak, on the eastern side of Myawaddy, in Thailand, and over 100 Burmese students have arrived there. From there they will go to a camp in Bangkok, to be handed over to the Burmese Ambassador and a special aircraft will bring them home. Parents may come to the camp to get their children. Those sent back to Rangoon will be accompanied by both Thai and Burma Red Cross personnel. The Burma Red Cross delegation left for Thailand Dec. 22, a day late because of talks between students from Thailand and "so-called" student leader Maung Maung Kyaw. Maung Maung Kyaw is not a true leader, though he "is the one who made arrangements to lead a group of students to Rangoon to meet General Saw Maung." He is exploiting the students, and he and his family "are doing well" in Thailand, living in Thai hotels with the assistance of "expatriate Tin Maung Win and Aye Aye Than." The 5,000 baht reward for those bringing students to the Burmese Embassy in Bangkok has been distorted and misconstrued. It is intended to show goodwill, and to help reimburse those who have helped students reach Bangkok; it is slanderous to equate it with the rewards for bandits given by the British in the colonial era. Kyaw Htin (a) Kyaw Htin Gyi, aged 23, a member of the 21-leading committee of the All-Burma Students Democratic Front, reported to the Myawaddy camp on Dec. 22. He said that "KNU major-general Tanbalabaw issued weapons to expatriate U Thwin and asked him to open a camp at Phalu Camp," to give arms and training to students. As of Dec. 15, 1,587 students had returned home, and 96 arrived from Dec. 16-21, for a total of 1,683. The number of students who arrived at the border [from Burma] is estimated at 3,000, and since 1,700 have returned, the number still there is about 1,000. They are not considered as insurgents, and unless they have committed crimes they will be returned immediately to their parents. The Dec. 31 deadline for return remains in effect for the time being; whether it is extended depends on the work jointly undertaken by Thailand and Burma. What happens after Dec. 31 is another matter. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 30: At the 19th official Press Conference the following was reported: 1,683 students had returned by Dec. 22, and another 107 arrived between Dec. 23-29, for a total of 1,790. As an additional 45 arrived Dec. 30, the total is now 1,835. The VOA broadcast of Dec. 24, citing an AFP report from diplomatic sources that one third of all service personnel [civil servants] had been fired is false. Since the Tatmadaw took over, "no single government servant had been dismissed." There are, exclusive of the Armed Forces, over 900,000 service personnel, and of these 494, or 0.055%, "had been granted pension." (WPD 12/31) Weapons Recovered Dec. 4: Four weapons were turned in at Mandalay. Two had been taken from the Mandalay Police Station "during the disturbances." (WPD 12/6) Dec. 11: A gun was found in Kawthaung [Tenasserim] on a garbage dump Dec. 5. A pistol was found in Tavoy Township Dec. 9. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 20: 4 guns were seized in Letpadan Twp. Dec. 12; and 3 on Dec. 13. (WPD 12/23) Dec. 26: 3 revolvers were seized in Pakkoku Twp., Dec. 22. (WPD 12/30) Curfew Hours Relaxed Dec. 20: State LORC Order No. 9/88 of Dec. 20 relaxes the curfew, changing the prohibited hours from 9:00 pm-4:00 am to 10:00 pm-4:00 am. (WPD 12/21) Student Camp in Thailand Dec. 20: A special reception camp for returning Burmese students will be opened in Tak, in Thailand, to receive students wishing repatriation. It will be jointly run by the Thai and Burma Red Cross Societies. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 22: A Burma Red Cross delegation left for Thailand by military aircraft. Led by Dr. Hla Nwe, member of the Executive Committee of the BRC, it included BRC Central Council member Dr. Ko Ko Gyi, Southern Shan State BRC Supervision Committee Chairman Lt-Col. Khalid Maung Maung, BRC Deputy Executive Director U Kyaw Soe, and Assistant Secretaries U Tun Kyi and U Hla Myint. The Tak camp will begin receiving Burmese students Dec. 21. Meanwhile, a reception camp has been opened at the Combined Mess of the Rangoon Command to receive students coming back from Thailand. (WPD 12/23) Dec. 26: The first batch of 80 students left the Tak camp by special plane for Burma, after a ceremony. They were accompanied by 38 Thai jounralists. On arrival in Rangoon, they were welcomed at the Mingaladon reception camp by State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt, and by their parents and guardians. Thai and other journalists interviewed them. 19 were immediately turned over to their parents; the other 61 will stay at the camp until arrangments are made to send them home. A student spokesman said that there were another 37 waiting for transportation at Tak, and 10 waiting in Chengmai. [photos] (WPD 12/27) Dec. 27: 51 students remaining at the Rangoon reception camp were returned home to their parents in two Airforce planes, one going to Heho and Meiktila with 21 students, and the other to Loikaw with 30 students. Local and foreign journalists accompanied them. They were welcomed on arrival. 19 had already returned to their parents the day before. [names & photos] Nine students remain at the Rangoon camp, from Mogok, Thaton, Ye, Mergui, and Wundwin. (WPD 12/28) Dec. 28: The final 9 students were returned home. [names] "Touching scenes" marked the reunion of students with parents. [photos] (WPD 12/29,31) Dec. 30: A second batch of 36 students left the Tak reception camp and returned to Rangoon by special plane. 4 students and 3 monks arrived from Bangkok by commercial flight; the students had been detained in Thailand as illegal immigrants, and the Burmese Embassy paid their fines of 2,800 baht each. All were welcomed in Rangoon. [photos] 24 students remain at Tak, mostly waiting for friends to come out of the jungle. There are about 150 students still at the Karenni camp. (WPD 12/31) Student Deadline Extended Dec. 30: The deadline for the reception of students without penalty has been extended for one month, to January 31, 1989. [announced at Press Conference] (WPD 12/31) ELECTIONS Party Registrations Party registrations continue the format followed in October, including the following keys to themes in Aims and Programmes (A&P): Political: I - Democracy II - Human rights III - National groups rights IV - Independent justice V - Law and order VI - End insurgencies VII - Federalism Socio/Economic: 1 - Economic development 2 - Agricultural modernization 3 - Farmers right to land 4 - Free enterprise 5 - Health 6 - Raise living standards 7 - End unemployment 8 - Promote youth 9 - Housing Cultural: a - Burmese culture b - Educational improvement c - Right to choose profession d - Religious freedom e - Ethnic promotion International: i - Burmese sovereignty ii - Non-alignment iii - Support for U.N. iv - Good relations with all v - Regional cooperation vi - World peace vii - Foreign aid & investment viii - Back democracy & freedom ----+---- Parties Nos. 1 - 31 (registration, officers, and Aims and Programmes) were covered in the October issue. Parties Nos. 32-68 were covered in the October (registration and officers) and November (Aims and Programmes) issues. Parties Nos. 69-91 (registration, officers, and Aims and Programmes) were covered in the November issue. Parties Nos. 92-148 (registration and officers) were covered in the November issue. ----+---- Parties 92-148 (A&P only, except when new information published): (92) Union of Kachin Youth Led by Kachin University Students (UKY). 204 Yuzana Ward, Myitkyina [Kachin]. A&P:V,1,8. (WPD 12/1) (93) Federal Republic Development Party. (A&P not published) (94) People's Peace Organization of Union of Burma. New address: 402 Vicarana St., Bo Phone Ward, Pegu [Pegu]. A&P:I,V,4,7,b,d,ii (WPD 12/2) (95) Party for National Development. A&P:II,4,6,b,vii. (WPD 12/2) (96) Arakan Nationalities Democracy Party. A&P:I,II,V,4,5,b,vii. (WPD 12/3) (97) Organization of Students and Youth for National Politics. A&P:I, II,III,1,4,5,8,ii,vi. (WPD 12/3) (98) Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League (Original) (Hq); AFPFL (Original) (Hq). (WPD for 12/4 not rec'd) (99) Burma Reporters' Association. (WPD for 12/4 not rec'd) (100) New Burma Party. A&P:I,3,4, 5,b,i,ii,v,vi. (WPD 12/5) (101) The Union of All Burma United Nationalities. A&P:I,II,III,i. (WPD 12/5) (102) United Democratic Youth League. New address: 222 (2nd fl.) Sule Pagoda Rd., Kyauktada T. [Rgn]. A&P:I,II,VI,2,4,5,8,a,b,ii, vii,viii. (WPD 12/6) (103) National Peace and Comfort Party. A&P:I,1,4,5,8,b,ii,iv,vi. (WPD 12/6) (104) New Democracy Party. A&P: II,III,1,3,4,6,8,b,ii. (WPD 12/7) (105) New Ideology Improvement Party for Social System. A&P:I,VI, b. (WPD 12/7) (106) People's Progressive Party. A&P: I,II,III,VI,3,4,6,b,ii,vii. (WPD 12/8) (107) Union of Burma Democratic League. A&P:I,II,III,VI,5,d,e,i,ii, vii. (WPD 12/8) (108) Rule of People's Democracy League. A&P:V,1,5,b,e,vi,vii. (WPD 12/10) (109) Ever Green Young Men Association. A&P:I,II,8,iv,vi. (WPD 12/ 10) (110) Union Democratic Congress. A&P:I,II,1,a,i,ii. (WPD 12/11) (111) League for Mother Democracy. A&P:I,II,III,VI,6,vi. (WPD 12/11) (112) League of Peasants' Unions (Union of Burma). A&P:I,II1,3,vi. (WPD 12/12) (113) Democracy Reformation League. A&P:I,II,III,IV,3,5,b,e, vii. (WPD 12/12) (114) United Trade Union Congress (Union of Burma). A&P:I,II,6,iv,vi. (WPD 12/13) (115) League for the Vitality of People's Democracy. A&P:I,II,III, VII,4,a,b,c,e,ii,v,vii. (WPD 12/13) (116) National Solidarity League, Union of Burma. A&P:III,6,8,b. (WPD 12/14) (117) Students and Youths League for Mayyu Development (Arakan). A&P:I,II,III,8,ii,v. (WPD 12/14) (118) Rakhine Races United Democratic Party (RRUDP). A&P:I,VI,e. (WPD 12/15) (119) Justice Party. A&P:I,II,3, 4,5,b,d,ii,iv,vii. (WPD 12/15) (120) National Fitness and Peace Party. A&P:4,8,d,ii. (WPD 12/16) (121) National Republican Federation (NRF). A&P:I,II,III,4,b,ii,vi. (WPD 12/16) (122) Union of Burma Unity Democracy League (RUDL). New address: 99 (1st fl.) 37th St., Kyauktada T. (5) Ward [Rgn]. A&P:I,II,III,IV,2, 8,b,ii,iii,iv,v,vi,vii. (WPD 12/17) (123) Genuine National Democratic Youth Organization. A&P:I,II,III,1, 5,a,b,c,ii. (WPD 12/17) (124) Republican Party. A&P:I,II, III,2,4,5,6,b,e,i. (WPD 12/18) (125) United Democratic Front (UDF). A&P:I,II,VII,4,d,iv,v,vii. (WPD 12/18) (126) Peasant Party (Burma). A&P: 1,3,b. Name changed Dec. 26 to: All-Burma Peasant Organization. New Officers list: Ch Kyaw Thaung (leader AFPFL) (Indep. Mawgun gr. 1); VCh Tin Maung Saw, Kyaw Thein; GS Khin Kyi (Wakema); JGS Myint Swe, Maung Maung Myo Win (BSc-maths); CEC Sein Aung (Academy actor, director), Tin Swe (Maubin), Thein Tun (a) Awba, Kyaw, Chit Swe, Ohn Mya. (WPD 12/19,27) (127) Labour Party (Burma). A&P: I,1,5. Name changed Dec. 26 to: Trade Union Congress (Burma) (TUCB). New Officers list: Ch Oo Tun (BA, BS-Georgetown Univ.) (f. TUCB memb.); VCh Kyaw Thaung (f. CEC TUCB) (Indep. Mawgun gr. 1), Tin Myint (f. CEC TUCB, Daik-U Twp.) (Indep. Mawgun gr. 1); GS Soe Nyunt (BA, RL, adv.); JGS Khin Maung Gyi (f. Sec. AFPFL Ahlone station area); CEC Ba Than (BA, BL, adv.), Tun Tin, Soe Hlaing (f. Sec. EPC), Than Maung, Chit Hlaing, Kyaw Thaung, Than Myint, Tun Khin, Khin Kyi, Daw Khin Saw Win. (WPD 12/ 19,27) (128) League for Peace of All Shan Youth & Students. A&P:I,II, III,8,b,e,i,vi. (WPD 12/20) (129) The New Life Party. A&P:I, II,1. (WPD 12/20) (130) National Politics Front (NPF). A&P:I,II,III,3,4,b,ii,vi, vii. (WPD 12/21) (131) Union Progress and Justice Action Party (UPJAP). A&P:I,III,1, 3,4,8,b,ii,vii. (WPD 12/21) (132) Farmer, Gadu, Ganan and Shan National Unity Democratic Headquarters (Banmauk Myo). A&P:I, III,3,6,b,d,i. (WPD 12/22) (133) Ta-ang (Palaung) National League for Democracy. A&P:I,III,1, b,e,vi. (WPD 12/22) (134) Shan State Kokang Democratic Party. A&P:I,II,1,e,i,ii,iv,v. (WPD 12/23) (135) Guidance Democracy Party (GDP). A&P:I,II,III,1,3,5,d,ii,iv, vii. (WPD 12/23) (136) United Force Party. A&P:I, III,4,5,b. (WPD 12/24) (137) Kokang Democracy and Unity Party. A&P:I,II,III,V,1,6,b. (WPD 12/24) (138) Democratic Action Party of Burma (DAB). A&P:I,III,4,5,b,i,ii, iv,vi. (WPD 12/25) (139) Youth Organization of Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League (Original) (Burma) (HQ). A&P:I,III, 3,8,b,vii. (WPD 12/25) (140) All Burma Youth League (Hqrs) (ABYL). (WPD for 12/26 not rec'd) (141) League for Democracy & Peace (LDP). (WPD for 12/26 not rec'd) (142) Union National League (Burma). A&P:I,III,2,3,5,b,v,vii. (WPD 12/27) (143) National Democratic Peace and Solidarity Party (NDPSP). A&P: I,II,III,2,4,6,b,c,iii,v,viii. (WPD 12/27) (144) Peasants and Workers Development Democracy League (PWDDL). A&P:I,II,1,3,5,7,b,d,ii.(WPD 12/28) (145) People's Justice Party (Burma). A&P:I,III,IV,3,8,vi. (WPD 12/28) (146) Peasants & Workers League for Democratic New-Construction (Union of Burma). A&P:I,II,III,VII, 1,3,5,6,b,vi,vii. (WPD 12/29) (147) League of New Generations (Union of Burma). A&P:I,II,III,1,3, 8,ii,vi. (WPD 12/29) (148) Burma's League for Liberal Evolution. A&P:II,1,2,5,8,b,ii,vii. (WPD 12/30) --+-- Parties 149, 151 (registration, officers, and Aims and Programme): Parties 150, 152-174 (registration and officers): (149) Nov. 30. League for Arakan Students and Youths. 250 U Ottama St., Rupa North Ward, Sittwe [Rakhine]. Ch Myat Toe Naing (Kyaukpyu) (2nd yr. civil GTI); VCh Aung Kyaw Thein (Maungdaw) (BSc-maths), Than Win (Ramree) (3rd yr. geog (Hons)), Aung Thein (Mrauk-U) (2nd yr. mech.power); GS Kyaw Zan Shwee (Ponnagyun) (4th yr. econ); JGS Thein Zaw (Rgn) (BA-Burm); CEC Yi Thway (Sandoway) (fin. pt. II, IM-2), Tun Aung Sein (Rathedaung) (4th yr. Burm), Kyaw Khin (Sittwe) (2nd yr phys (Hons)), Tun Shwe (Buthidaung) (2nd yr hist (Hons). A&P:I, II,1,4,8,b,c,e. (WPD 12/1,30) (150) Nov. 30. People's Front for Democracy Construction. 11 Gya-taw-ya St., Myoma Ward, Bahan T. [Rgn]. Ch Win Shwe (BA, HGP, RL); VCh Khin Maung Win; GS Thaung A (Pakokku) (BSc); JGS Myint Thein (Maung Zaw Thit); CEC Myint Shwe (Thaketa) (BA, RL), Daw Htay Kyi (Athok) (4th yr. LL.B), Myint Than (Gwa), Khin Maung Myint, Kyin Htay (Pyapon), Tin Saw, Aung Kyaw Oo (Sittwe). (WPD 12/1) (151) Dec. 1. Peasants' Development Party (PDP). 10 3rd Lane, Shwelayaung Ward, Myothit [Magwe]. Ch Tha Nyi (Tha Nyi-Mann Tetkatho); VCh Tin Aung (Taungdwingyi) (adv.), Kyaw Myint (Taungdwingyi) (LL.B., lawy.); GS Aung Shin (f. Yebaw of anti-fascist revol.); CEC Hla Maung (peasant), Thein Hlaing (peasant), Tin Hla (peasant), Nyan Saung (peasant). A&P:I,II,III,4,vi. (WPD 12/2,31) (152) Dec. 1. Shan State Kachin Democratic Party. 206 Min St., Kutkai [Shan]. Patrons Duwa Teng Nai, Duwa Zau Nai, Sayagyi U Labya Gam; Ch Zau La (BSc-phys); VCh Marteng (BSc-bot); GS Zau Bauk (BSc-zool); Sec Nau Taung (lawy.), Labya Labauk (BSc-phys); CEC Bram Tun (BSc-zool), Nau Din (AGTI-civil), Zau Aung (BSc-zool), Markhar (BA-hist). (WPD 12/2) (153) Dec. 1. Kachin National Congress (KNC). 74 Myoma Ward, Myitkyina [Kachin]. Ch Duwa Zau Mau; GS Khalam Nau; Sec Hsai Li; CEC Daw Gwe Ja, L W Zau Nau, Daw Ja On, La Gyaung. (WPD 12/2) (154) Dec. 1. Patriotic Democracy Party (PDP). 199 (2nd fl.) Anawrahta St., Pabedan T. [Rgn]. Patron Thakin Aye Maung (f. Ch Pyithu Party, 1953-54); Ch Tin Aye (f. org. Maubin Dist., Hpa-Hsa-Pa-La); VCh San Aung (f. CEC, TUCB); Sec Myo Thant (adv.) (BCom, BL); CEC Khaing Myai (f. edit. Ta-Ka-Tha, Oway Magazine), Ba Tint (Mawgun gr. 2), Soe Myint Htay (1953 Ye Gaung Myoma old student, writer), Nyo Min Hlaing, Zaw Min, Ye Naing Oo. (WPD 12/2) (155) Dec. 2. Progressive New Burma Party (PNBP). 90 5th Lane, Thayettaw South Ward, Kemmendine T. [Rgn]. Ch Po Htin (Ch Ya-ka-tha 1960-62); VCh Ohn Maung (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62), Daw Khin Khin Sein BA-Burm, RL-1, Dip. Nursing & Midwifery); GS Mya Thein (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62); JGS Shwetaingmye Khin Maung Swe (music, film) (Yin Kye Maung), Thet Tin Soe (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62); CEC Myat Soe, Win Pe, Daw Hla Sein, Soe Naing (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62), Mya Aye Tun, Daw Aye Ngwe (Chin Women Naga range Christian missionary), Thein Tun, Tin Soe (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62), Soe Nyunt, Htein Win (BA-psych, 3rd yr.), Khin Maung Soe, Khin Maung Hnin (poetry) (Ya-ka-tha 1960-62). (WPD 12/3) (156) Dec. 2. Union's Genuine Democracy Party (Burma). 27 (1st fl.) Phonegyi St., Lanmadaw T. [Rgn]. Ch Maw (Lanmadaw) (1938 Rgn Univ Coll strike leader); VCh Thakin Myint Swe (Kayan) (Mawgun gr. 3), Aung Khin (Lanmadaw), Po Gyi (Myingyan); GS Yan Gyi Aung (Lanmadaw) (BE-mining); JGS Htay Maung (Tun) (Thaketa) (LL.B. adv.), Kyi Aung (Lanmadaw) (BA), Sonny Thwin (Shan Yoma) (BSc-phys); CEC Ba Pe (a) Ba Swe (Lanmadaw), Tin Ngwe (Pegu), Si (Lanmadaw) (indig. med. pract.), Maung Maung Gale (Tamwe) (BA, BL, adv.), Hla Oo (Lanmadaw) (indig. med. pract.), Po Hti (Yankin), Htin Paw (Lanmadaw), Thein Lwin (Myingyan), Chit Aung (Thaketa), Saw Hlaing (Thaketa), Daw Kalyani (Thaketa) (BSc-phys). (WPD 12/3) (157) Dec. 2. Coalition League for Democratic Party Unity. 84 Hume Rd., Sanchaung T. [Rgn]. "formed with leading members of 19 political parties." Ch Boh Kyar Nyunt (AFPFL, Original, Hq) [Party No. 98, see also No. 7-HCMacD]; Leading members Po Tha Bay (Peace and Economic Development Party of Union of Burma) [No. 40], Maung Maung Khaing (Youth Democratic Party) [Democratic Party for Youth Society] [No. 75], Saw San Ba Aung (United Karen League) [No. 13], Aung Than (Union Youth Party) [No. 69], Ba Than (Labour Party (Burma)) [No. 127], Hla Tun (National Party) [No. 62], Khin Maung Nyunt (Liberal Democracy Party) [No. 47], Aye Than (New Democracy Party) [No. 104], Kyaw Thaung (Peasant Party (Burma)) [No. 126], Nay Pho Ba Swe (AFPFL, Original, Hq) [No. 98], San Maung (All Burma National Progressive Democracy Party) [No. 59], Than Nyunt (Aung) (National Party) [No. 62], Ye Myint (Union Youth Party) [No. 69], Kyaw Win (Youth Union for Burma's Progress) [No. 26], Zaw Nyein Latt (New Burma Party) [No. 100], Daw Moe Moe Oo (Youth Democratic Party) [No. 75], Po Mingala (Youth Organization of AFPFL, Original, Burma, Hq) [No. 139], Aye Thaung (a) Than Htut (Republican Party) [No. 124], Tint Swe (Peasant Party (Burma)) [No. 126, Soe Nyunt (Labour Party (Burma)) [No. 127], Aung Kywe (Youth Organization of AFPFL, Original, Burma, Hq) [No. 139]. (WPD 12/3) (158) Dec. 7. Union DANU League for Democracy. 17 Aung San St., Ward No. 4, Aungban, Kalaw Twp. [Shan]. Patrons Kyar Yoe (Pindaya), Pe Myint (Taunggyi), Aung Than (Pwehla), Myint Oo (Maung Lin Yone, Shan Pyi), Myo Than (Rgn); Ch Tin Win (Aungban); VCh Nyi Nyi Lay (Pindaya), Soe Ngwe (Taunggyi), Win Aung (Aungban), Nyunt Tin (Ywangan); GS Soe Than (Aungban); JGS Nyunt Win (Pindaya); Secret. Myint Pe (Pwehla), Myo Myint Aung (Ywangan), Aye Pe (Aungban); CEC Daw Khin Than Oo (Aungban), Daw Khin Mar Win (Pwehla), Dr. Tun Myint (Kalaw), Kyaw Yi (Ye-U), Tint Lwin (Mogok), Aung San (Heho), Soe Myint (Kaung Bo), Khun Sein (Myin-kya-doe), Than Htay (Aungban), Maung Nge (a) Thet Tun (Baw Hsaing), Ko Ko Aye (Taunggyi), Soe Myint (Pindaya), Aung Kyaw Oo (Taunggyi), Yin Aye (Aungban). (WPD 12/8) (159) Dec. 7 Pa-O National Development Organization. 98/2 Merchant St., Zaypaing Ward, Taunggyi [Shan]. Patrons Tun Yi (f. CEC Pa-Ah-Ma-Pha), Htwet Tone (F. memb. Pa-Ah-Ma-Pha), Mya Maung (rtd Head of Twp Forest Dept.); Ch Kyaw Sein (f. MP, GS 1960 Pa-O Aphwe-choke); VCh Dr. U Khun Hla Maung (MBBS); GS Tun Aung (a) Khun Tun Aung (BE-civil, f. ass't engin.); JGS Tun Shwe (BSc-chem), Khun Pe Aye (a) Khun Yadana Taung (BSc-forest); CEC San Lwin (a) Khun Lone, Lun Chin (a) Khin Maung Oo (BSc-phys), Than Pe, Daw Nang Aye Myint Kyi. (WPD 12/8) (160) Dec. 8. League for Democracy Alliance. 148 (gd. fl.) 48th St., Ward No. 10, Botataung T. [Rgn]. Ch Daw San San Myint (owner, Danubyu Cigar Works); VCh Daw Khin Thanda Myint; GS Thein Win; JGS Daw Amar Lwin (BSc-bot); CEC Mya Maung, Myo Myint, Than Htay, Daw Tin U, Daw Khin May Myint, Daw Si Si Htay. (WPD 12/9) (161) Dec. 8. National Ethnic Reformation Party (Headquarters). 125 (1st fl.) 34th St., Kyauktada T. [Rgn]. Patrons Maung Maung (AGTI) (E.P.) (rtd. exec engin-Kyauktaw), M Harbi Boolbor Hsawkaro (BA-EngLit), M Ziyar Ul-kauk (Sittwe); Ch Khin Maung (Kyauktaw); VCh Chit Maung (Sittwe), Abdul Mahabu (Rangoon); GS Shwe Phone Win (writ., edit) (Sittwe); JGS Aung Thein (Kyauktaw), Nay Lin (a) Salim (Kanaungto) (BSc-chem Hons) (HGP, RL(1) (Ramree); Secret. Sitinbarchar (writ., Shwenaung Soe Myint Oo) (Rangoon), Tha Pan (Sittwe), Shwe Maung (Sittwe), Saw Myint (a) Mohamad Ismail (Rathedaung); CEC Se Rahzul Hauk (Buthidaung), Hla Sein (Sittwe), Maung Thein (a) Mohamad Hussein (Mrauk-U), Maung Thein (Minbya), Hla Aung (Maungdaw), Maung Nyo (a) Sauli Mullah (Buthidaung), Kyaw Zan Hla (Panchi) (Sittwe), Soe Win (a) Ruhu Armin (Sittwe), Maung Mya (Rangoon), Sawhitara (Rathedaung), Shwe Thein (a) Md Ahmad (Kyauktaw), Hla Phyu (Rangoon), Ba Maung (Hsipaw), Shwe Ni (rtd schoolteacher) (Kyauktaw), Kyaw Win (a) Abdullah (Kyaukpyu). (WPD 12/9) (162) Dec. 12. People's Pioneer Party (PPP). 613 (gd. fl.) Maha Bandoola St., Latha T. [Rgn]. Patron Thakin Lay Maung (Ch Doh Bama Asiayone); Ch San Shwe (Manaung); VCh Thakin Than Aung (Doh Bama Asiayone) (Col. of Rakine & Irrawaddy Div., Anti-Fascist Movement, and Comm., BIA Admin. Reg't No. 1); GS Soe Lin Aung (adv.); JGS Aye, Thura U Tha Sein (Indep. Mawgun gr. 1); CEC Thakin Hla Maung (MA) (Doh Bama Asiayone), Tin Mya (a) Pe Thein (lead. anti-colon./fascist movement), Win Maung (BSc) (rtd off. Trade Revenue Dept.), Soe Myint (lead. of police strike), Thakin Ba Tun (Doh Bama Asiayone), Win Swe (rtd. Major), Aung Myint (Twp Ch Ya-Ka-Tha, 1962-63), Kyin Hoke (f. headmast. Youth Affairs Night Sch.), Win Maung (Ngwe Layaung rice mill Medical student), Mya Thwe (Ashe-taing) (writer), Tun Swe (memb. Ta-Ka-Tha, Rgn Dist), Win Maw Tun (BA-pol.sci.), Min Thein (Tavoy), Hsan Win (Myanaung) (LL.B, adv.), Hla Kyaing (MA-psych, thesis), Daw Than Than (BSc-pol.sci., Hons), Kyaw Myint (HGP), Ye Myint (BA, LL.B, adv.), Daw Yin Yin, Daw Aye Aye Mar (MB, BS-fin. pt. 2), Daw Nila Win (2nd yr. zool, Rgn Univ Kemmendine Campus), Daw Mya Mya (Lunge Amyothami), Aung Kywe, Thakin Ba Tun (BA) (memb. Doh Bama Asiayone). (WPD 12/13) (163) Dec. 13. Kamans National League for Democracy. 41 (1st fl.) 123rd St., Mingala Taungnyunt T. [Rgn]. Patrons Sayagyi U Tha Din (Sarho Danya Min Din) (rtd headmast.), Sein Tun Oo (rtd fact. manag., Paper & Chemic. Ind. Corp.), Aung Tha Nun (industrialist), Maung Ni Nya (f. ch Sittwe Twp. Kamans nat'l educ. promotion bd.); Ch Pe Tin (BSc); VCh Nyunt Tha Aung, Sein Min (f. BAF); GS Min Naing (BSc, RL); JGS Tha Din (Sittwe); Sec. Kyaw Din (BSc) (Design, Block & Seal Works), Thein Shwe, Tun Ngwe, Tin Maung Win (2nd yr. hist); CEC Shwe Hla, Khin Maung, Ba Lon (indust.), Khin Maung Yin (BSc), Shwe Bu, Kyaw Min, Ba Kyaw, Thet Tun. (WPD 12/14) (164) Dec. 13. Kuki Chin National Unity Party (KCLNUP). Myenigon Ward, Homalin [Sagaing]. Ch Khai Khaw Lun (rtd. teach.); VCh Do Za Thang (cultivator), Ram Khaw Pau (cult.); GS Pau Khaw Win (tailor); Sec. Thang Khaw Pau (cult.), Yan Khaw Thang (cult.); CEC Ngan Khaw Yan (a) Tin Maung, Mang Khaw Zam (cult.), Lian Pau (merch.), Hau Za Ngam (cult.), Let Khaw Thang (cult.), Zam Khaw Mang (cult.), Ram Khaw Mang (cult.), Lin Khaw Tan (rtd. teach.), Hluan Khaw Se (cult.). (WPD 12/14) (165) Dec. 14. Democratic Organization for Kayan National Unity (DOKNU). 164 Nyaunggon Ward, Phekon [Shan]. Patrons Thaing Than Tin (Mawgun gr. 2), Chit Sein (f. SDO); Ch Francis; VCh Aung, Marco Bung; Sec. Kyaw Zan; JSec. Khun Maung Win, Khun John; CEC Maung Di, David Nay Htoo, Thoma Ngaik, Peter Pay, Toe, Nang, Tarle, Mya Lwin, Ma Te O. (WPD 12/15) (166) Dec. 14. Mara People's Party (MPP). Myoma Ward, Paletwa [Chin]. Ch J Tizo Penn (BSc-maths); VCh Si San Maung; GS Si Zakyon (BSc-phys); JGS Si Ro Oak (fn. yr. phys, RU); CEC Mara Hla Mar, Si Vankyin (BA-geog), Si Lian Hmon (BSc-bot), Daw L Khai Kyai (BSc-bot), Si Simon (BSc-chem), Tiha Maung. (WPD 12/15) (167) Dec. 16. Union Nationals Democracy Party (UNDP). 2/4 Shin Saw Pu St., Sanchaung T. [Rgn]. Leading Nayaka Aung Gyi (rtd Brig-Gen.); Ch Kyaw Myint Lay (BA, BL) (f. VCh Asia Youth, f. Ch Commerce & Trade); VCh Tha Hto (MA, DEP) (rtd Prof. of Inst. of Econ., f. Tr Asia Youth), Khing Maung Maung (BA-Hons) (rtd Commiss. of Police, B.P.S. gr. 1); GS Kyi Han (rtd Ambassador); Sec. Tun Shwe (rtd Addit. Admin. of border region), Thein Naing (BA-Hons, winner of Fine Arts Award and Nat. Liter. Award) (VCh Upper Burma Writers Ass'n, 1964-68, Gon Htoo Myanmasa Tuition); CEC Minn Din (BSc, MSc-USA) (rtd Dep. Dir. Gen. Mining Dept.), Dr. Daw Thinn Kyi (BA, BEd, PhD-USA) (rtd Prof. of Geog, f. Asia Youth Nyana Bala Hmu), Ba Shwe (rtd. Ambass.), Khin Nyo (f. Ch BEDC), Pho Aung (BA, BL, adv.), Nan Nwe (Gen. Man. Continental Trading House, rtd. BFSC), Ba Thein (recording), Soe Myint (Yaza Law Tuition) (BA-law, LL.B, LL.M), Zaw Linn (BE-petrol), Dr. Sein Yee (MB, BS) (Meiktila). (WPD 12/17) (168) Dec. 21. Democratic People and Retired Personnel Organization (DPRPO). 15 1st Lane, Yangonthit Ward, Thingangyun T. [Rgn]. Patrons Han Tin (Sagaing Han Tin), Ohn Khaing (Lay) (rtd. Dep. Chief Acc't, Port Corp.), Daw Myat Mon (rtd. Dep. Dir., Mawgun gr 3); Ch San Myint (rtd. Land Records and Settlement Dept.); VCh Than Nyunt (rtd. Gen. Admin. Dept.), Kyaw Nyunt (BA, BL) (rtd. Prisons Dept.); GS Than Myint (rtd. Gen. Admin. Dept.); JGS Ko Lay (rtd. Econ. Bank), Khin Aye (music composer, rtd. Marine Admin. Dept.); CEC Dr. Tin Pe (MBBS), Soe Win, Aung Soe (rtd. Devel. Comm.), Myint Than (rtd. Agric. Corp.), Khin Maung Shwe (writer, f. Manag. Letywayzin Journal). (WPD 12/22) (169) Dec. 21. Burma People's Welfare Party (Sinbyugyun). National Road, Pyanlwint Ward, Sinbyugyun [Magwe]. Patron Kyinn Hone (rtd. teacher); Ch Khin Maung Lat (Loka Nat Sarpay); VCh Han Soe (B.Com-IT), San Lwin (Myothit), Daw Khin Win Myint; Sec. Daw Win Marlar (BEcon-Eco); JSec. Kyi Win (Okshitkon), Nay Win Lwint (Pahtamakyaw) (Thanatkon), Myint Aung; CEC Zaw Min (1) (reporter), Maung Maung Khin (BA) (wrier, Nwetamai), Zaw Min (2), Daw Win Mar, Aung Soe Myint (2nd yr. int. rel. & int. admin.), Aung Moe (2nd yr. phys.), Nay Lin Htet (2nd yr. Burm.), Than Tun Oo (1st yr. elect. power, GTI), Hla Than. (WPD 12/22) (170) Dec. 22. Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization (MKNSO). 27 Ah-le Lan, Pyidawtha Ward, Kyauktaw [Rakhine]. Patrons Maung Htwee, Kyar Aung, Maung Kyaw Khaing; Ch San Tha Aung; VCh Ba Aung, Maung Kyaw Oo; GS Maung Pein; JGS Than Hlaing, Sein Tun; CEC San Aye, Ni Hla Pyu, Tha Ban Aung, Win Mar, Maung San Kyaw, Maung Kyaw, Kyaw Aung, Chet Hpar, Ingar Hpyu, Kyaw Zan Hla, San Tun Oo. (WPD 12/23) (171) Dec. 29. People's Potential Democratic Youth League. 59 26th St., Pabedan T. [Rgn]. Patron Thakin Hla Maung (MA) (Doh Bama Asiayone) (Sec-Gen. All Burma Pali Translation Asiayonegyi); Ch Soe Lin Aung (adv.); GS Aung Myint (a) Saya Kyaw; JGS Tun Swe, Aung Kyaw Mya (a) Aung Paing; CEC Saw Billion (Htongyi, Pegu), Ohn Khin (BSc-chem), Kyaw Zaw (LL.B, adv.), Tha Aung Htay (old Myoma stud.), Thein Soe (a) Thukha Maw. (WPD 12/30) (172) Dec. 30. Real, Open, Just-Democratic Party (Union of Burma). 7/70 Gon Htoo St., Yadana Thiri Ward, Taunggyi [Shan]. Patron Saya Dagon (astrologer); Ch Ba Thaw (indigenous medical practitioner-IMP); VCh Kyi Pe (IMP), GS Pye Win (Dewa Kyemon); JGS Maung Maung Kyi (Waidinga columnist); CEC Saya Tin (IMP), Nyan Lin Maung (a) Aye Maung, Kyaw San (BAW Saing), Soe Min (IMP), Khin Soe (a) Saya Ahlinyaung (astrol.), Hkun Maung Maung (researcher in astrol.), San Tint (Myingyan), Kyaw San (a) Maha Brahma Dewa, Daw Mya Wut Yi (astrol. and palmist). (WPD 12/31) (173) Dec. 30. Democracy New Building Social Milieu Party (Bassein-Irrawaddy Division). 15 Phettan St., Bassein [Irrawaddy]. Ch Tin Maung Soe (a) Zaw Htaik; VCh Minn Naing, Tin Swe (a) Pho Toak; GS Daw Myint Myint Aye (a) Mya Sanda; JGS Daw Than Than Htay; CEC Ye Myint, Thein Lwin, Saw Robert, Pho Kun (a) Kun Zaw Win, Minn Soe Naing (a) Kyaw Kyaw Naing, Toe Toe Lwin (Rangoon), Aung Linn Oo, Thant Zin (Ahmyotha), Daw Myint Myint Oo, DAw Thida Lwin, Daw Thanda, Daw Khin Thi Oo. (WPD 12/31) (174) Dec. 30. New Strength Democratic Allied Party. 67 Kyaikwaing Pagoda Rd., Ward 4, Mayangon T. [Rgn]. Patrons Kyi Win (f. Myochit Tathmu), Aye Maung (f. Myochit Tathmu); Ch Thaung Myint; GS Than Naing; JGS Hsan Win Lwin, Daw Thet Thet Khaing; CEC Tun Aye, Aung Myo Lwin, Tin Moe Win, Aye Ko, Daw Htwe Myint Thaung, Daw May Nang Nwe, Daw Khin Khin Htay, Daw May Nang Soe (a) Daw Su Su Htwe. (WPD 12/31) Party Reports Requested Dec. 6: The Multi-Party Democracy General Elections Commission has requested all registered political parties to submit progress reports. Some parties have carried out organizational work with considerable success; some are establishing alliances with other parties with similar aims; and some are cooperating with other parties as branch parties. All parties are requested "to inform with what parties they are establishing alliance and with what parties they are merging as a branch party or whether they stand as a separate party or not." Progress reports are due by the end of December. (WPD 12/7) DIPLOMATIC Burmese Ambassador to USSR Nov. 30: Ambassador [designate] U Tin Tun was received by Soviet Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Rogachev on Nov. 29, to discuss his presentation of credentials. (WPD 12/1) // Dec. 9: Ambassador U Tin Tun presented credentials to Deputy Chairman of the Soviet Presidium, Anatoly Ivanovich Lukianov. (WPD 12/10) Foreign Ambassadors Received Nov. 30: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin Bin Abdullah met with Minister for Cooperatives, for Livestock & Fisheries, and for Agriculture and Forests Maj-Gen. Chit Swe. [photo] Belgian Ambassador Baron Olivier Gilles de Pelicy paid a courtesy call on the Multi-Party Democracy General Elections Commission Chairman and Commission members. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 2. Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng called on Minister for Energy Rear Admiral Maung Maung Khin. [photo] British Ambassador Martin Robert Morland called on the Elections Commission. (WPD 12/3) Dec. 6: U Ohn Gyaw, Director-General of the Political Department, Foreign Ministry, met separately with Korean Ambassador Byong Hyon Kwon, and with Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng, to discuss bilateral relations. Cheng Ruisheng also called on Health Minister Dr. Pe Thein to invite a Burmese goodwill visit to come to China. [photo] (WPD 12/7) Dec. 12: Prime Minister Gen. Saw Maung received the Dean of Diplomatic Corps, Thai Ambassador Tongchan Jotikasthira. [photo] (WPD 12/13) Dec. 13: Minister for Trade Col. Abel received Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng to discuss aid and tourism. [photo] (WPD 12/14) Dec. 15: Swiss Ambassador Armin Kamer called on the Elections Commission. [photo] (WPD 12/16) Dec. 16: Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng called on Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss resumption of work on the Rangoon-Syriam bridge. [photo] (WPD 12/17) Dec. 20: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin Bin Abdullah called on the Elections Commission. [photo] (WPD 12/21) Dec. 22: Soviet Ambassador Sergei Pavlovich Pavlov called on Minister for Trade Col. Abel to discuss mutual cooperation. (WPD 12/23) Dec. 26: Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng was received by State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung. [photos] Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Ohtaka was received by U Ohn Gyaw, Director General of the Political Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to discuss bilateral relations. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 29: Minister for Trade Co. Abel received Pakistan Charg‚ d'Affaires ai Masood Akhtar to discuss bilateral cooperation. [photo] (WPD 12/30) Ambassador to Pakistan Dec. 20: The Chairman of the State LORC has named Thura U Mya Soe Nyein as Ambassador to Pakistan. (WPD 12/20) Egyptian Ambassador Arrives Dec. 22: State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung received the credentials of Dr. Adel Abass El Adawy as Ambassador of Egypt. [photos] (WPD 12/23) FOREIGN VISITORS Regional Red Cross Head Nov. 30: The Resident Representative for Asia of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Jean Michel Monod, called on Health Minister Dr. Pe Thein to discuss ICRC medical aid. (WPD 12/1) // Dec. 6: Monod called on Attorney General U Tha Tun. [photo] (WPD 12/7) Thai Army Commander Visits Dec. 14: The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, who is also Acting Supreme Commander of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, arrived on an official visit by special plane, accompanied by a delegation of 34 members and 47 newsmen. The Thai delegation included Deputy Supreme Commander Gen. Pat Akkanibut, Supreme Command Deputy Chief of Staff Gen. Somkuan Suwan, Armed Forces Security Centre Commander Gen. Apitep Intrapitak, Director of Joint Operations (RTARF) Lt-Gen. Soomkit Chongpayha, Director of Information (RTARF) Lt-Gen. Naruedon Dejpradiyuth, Deputy Commander-in-Chief (RTA) Gen. Wanchai Ruangtragool, Chief of Staff (RTA) Gen. Charuay Vongsayan, Commander-in-Chief (RTN) Adm. Prapat Krisnachan, Commander-in-Chief (RTAF) Air Chief Marshal Voronat Apichari, Director-General (RTPD) Police Gen. Pow Sarasin, Director-General (National Security Council) Mr. Suwit Suthanukul, Deputy Chief of Staff (RTA) Lt-Gen. Aroon Pariwattitham, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative Lt-Gen. Chairan. The Thai delegation was met at 8:50 at Rangoon airport by Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Services Gen. Saw Maung, Commander-in-Chief (Army), Lt-Gen. Than Shwe, Commander-in-Chief (Navy) Rear Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Commander-in-Chief (Air) Maj-Gen. Tin Tun, Director of Defence Services Intelligence Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Commander of Rangoon Command Brig-Gen Myo Nyunt, Chief of Staff (Air) Col. Thein Win, and Director-General of People's Police Force Col. Thura Pe Aung, and diplomatic personnel. At 10:30 am the delegation met at the Ministry of Defence Guest Hall with the Directors-General and Managing Directors of the cabinet ministries. Gen. Saw Maung hosted a lunch for the delegation at No. 2 Tatmadaw Guest House, at which speeches were exchanged. The delegation left Rangoon by air at 4:30 pm. In his speech, Gen. Saw Maung began: "Your visit takes place at a time when development of a new situation is taking place in Burma. As you are aware, the pillars of unity among the Tatmadaw, indigenous people and the entire population were attacked by both domestic and external unscrupulous elements with a view to disintegrating the Union of Burma, and as a result of the general deterioration of the country, I had to lead the Tatmadaw to preserve the powers of State organs." He noted the four objectives of his government, "namely, maintenance of law and order and stability, establishment of secure and smooth transportation and communication, providing the entire population with sufficient food, clothing and shelter, and after these aims have been satisfactorily attained, the final objective of holding multi-party democracy general elections will be fulfilled." He pledged a "free and fair" election, and noted that 164 parties were registered and many "are now actively campaigning country-wide." He said, "My government has announced an open-door policy on the economy and a foreign investment law has been enacted...to enhance the national economic sector...." Turning to international relations, Gen. Saw Maung said "I am glad to note that you are the first dignitary to visit us after a new situation had developed in Burma. We therefore consider you one of our country's closest friends. At present, there are a few countries that look forward to consolidating friendship with us and on the other hand some countries show less interest in co-operating with us. On our part we cannot help but ignore their individual attitudes as our policy is to establish friendship with every country." "Presently," he continued, "we find that misguided students are streaming towards the border area fearing arrest and detention by the authorities. On our part, we are trying our best for the safe return of these students to their homes. Up to now, over 1,500 students have returned to their homes but the insurgents...are creating difficulties for their return to the legal fold." He said Burma had made arrangements with Thailand for the repatriation of students from temporary camps in Thailand. Referring to the KNU and NDF insurgents, he said "In the past few days it has been found that some expatriates who are now foreign citizens joined them in an attempt to stage armed insurrection in border areas. We are also aware that a few foreigners went to the insurgents to consult, encourage, pledge support to their cause and spread concerted rumours against the Burmese government." Burma would stick to its policy of peaceful co-existence and good relations with its neighbors, and refrain from "speech and writings detrimental to the interests of other countries." In actions against border insurgents, every effort was made not to "have any shells land inside the territory of Thailand." In response, Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh said he was uncertain whether to call Gen. Saw Maung President, Chairman, Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, or Minister of Foreign Affairs, and was thus glad to be allowed to address him as Brother. He apologized at the trouble his large delegation was causing, "because you yourself and all my Burmese brothers are now working very hard for the peace, stability and prosperity of the Union of Burma." He had come, he said, because "I have the responsibility along the border about the security," and assured that "Thailand will not make any intrusion in your internal business or internal affairs." He shared the Burmese concern about students along the border, saying "you really need all of them to come back to study for the future of Burma," and promised Thai cooperation to this end. "I will try to make them understand that what they want is democracy. We also need our country to be a democratic country. We can make that peacefully. I will try to explain to them also that the history in Thailand for 200 years we had such a big problem like this. Fighting against each other and no unity. That caused us about 100 years delay in development of our own country." (WPD 12/15) Foreign Tourists Arrive Dec. 19: A group of 19 West German tourists arrived from Bangkok, and will remain until Dec. 26, visiting Pagan, Mandalay, and Taunggyi/Inle. Visas are being issued for package tour groups beginning December 1988, and arrangements have been made by Tourist Burma for eight groups already to visit in December. (WPD 12/20) Chinese Trade Delegation Dec. 29: A Chinese trade delegation headed by Chen Mao Qi of the the China National Arts and Crafts Import and Export Corporation, Guangdong Arts and Crafts Co Ltd, arrived. [photo] (WPD 12/20) Dec. 30: The delegation was received by Minister for Planning & Finance, for Energy and for Mines, Rear Admiral Maung Maung Khin. (WPD 12/31) BURMESE DELEGATIONS Burmese Palestine Position Dec. 16: The Burmese delegation at the UNGA Session on the Question of Palestine in Geneva Dec. 13-15, issued the following statement [text]: Burma considers the Palestinian question as the key to the solution of the Middle East problem. She believes that the search for solutions should be based on the principles of respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the political independence of all states in the region and the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people in Palestine, including their right to National Independence and Sovereignty. The proclamation of the Independent Palestinian State is therefore recognized as a step that has been taken for the restoration of the rights of the Palestinian people to establish their own state and is therefore welcome. (WPD 12/17) BURMA GAZETTE Appointments Made Nov. 30: The State LORC, under Notification No. 9/88 of Nov. 30, appointed: U Maung Maung Kyaw, Director, Trade Department, Ministry of Trade, to be Managing Director, Inspection and Agency Corporation, same Ministry. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 8: The Government, under Section 6 of the Development law, has appointed: Col. Ko Lay (BC/8679) to be Chairman of the Rangoon City Development Committee and Rangoon City Mayor. (WPD 12/8) Probationary Appointments The State LORC made the following probationary appointments: Dec. 16: Col. Khin Myint (BC/8520), Vice Quartermaster General, Ministry of Defence, to be Managing Director, Livestock and Fisheries Corporation, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries. U Tin Maung Myint, Director, Planning and Statistics Department, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, to be Director-General of the same. (WPD 12/16) Dec. 23: U Shwe Tin, Captain, Burma Five Star Shipping Corporation, Ministry of Transport & Communications, to be Principal, Institute of Marine Technology, same Ministry. Dr. Maung Maung Sein, Professor/Head of Surgery Department, Rangoon General Hospital, Ministry of Health, to be Rector, Institute of Medicine (1), Rangoon, same Ministry. (WPD 12/23) Dec. 28: Col. Ba Tun (BC/ 8756), Tactical Operations Commander, Northern Command, Ministry of Defence, to be Director-General, Pension Department, Ministry of Planning and Finance. U Khin Thein, Director, Internal Revenue Department, Ministry of Planning and Finance, to be Director-General, Revenue Appelate Tribunal, same Ministry. U Thein Sein, Director, Department of Fine Arts, Ministry of Culture, to be Director-General, same Department. (12/28) Transfer and Appointment Dec. 16: U Soe Nyunt, Director-General, Fine Arts Department, Ministry of Culture, to be Managing Director, News and Periodicals Corporation, Ministry of Information. (WPD 12/16) GOVERNMENT Government Officials [Compilation of officials; only names not included in the October and November issues, or which appear to represent changes, are listed here]: Prime Minister: Gen. Saw Maung [see item below] Chin State LORC Chairman: Col. Aung Khin (No.1 Tactical Oper. Commander, North-West Command). Gen. Saw Maung Prime Minister Dec. 2: [In a message of congratulations to Laos, on the occasion of its National Day, Gen. Saw Maung for the first time used the title "Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and Prime Minister of the Government of the Union of Burma." Some subsequent messages in December continued this usage. HCMacD.] (WPD 12/2) MILITARY Donations to Military Lengthy lists continued of private donations "for the Tatmadawmen who are serving in front areas." Dec. 23: U.S. citizen Mr. James Patrick Stewart Ross, (a) Maung Kyaw Kyaw Aung, donated US$200 to the Tatmadawmen at No. 4 Military Region Control Office Dec. 17. On Nov. 7 he had donated US$100 in cash and medicines, pens, and carbon paper. [photo] (WPD 12/24) Insurgent Attacks Dec. 1: The Ye-Moulmein train mined and fired on by Mon insurgents on Nov. 29 near the Mawkanin Station [WPD 11/30] was inspected by authorities. The armoured van in front of the locomotive was blown 200 yards, and the locomotive destroyed. Six sections of track were destroyed, and a crater 5' deep and 15' wide made. Rail service will resume Dec. 2. (WPD 12/2) // Dec. 4: Casualty list published. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 1: KNU insurgents mined and destroyed Bridge No. 79, 20' long, 500 yards from Kyaikhtaw railway station, Nov. 29. Repairs were completed Nov. 30. (WPD 12/2) Dec. 2: 400 KIA insurgents from Nos. 5 & 11 battalions on Nov. 27 attacked the No. 15 Burma Regiment Headquarters and the People's Police Station at Mohnyin, Kachin State. The attack on the Army was repulsed, but the Police had to retreat. The KIA took from the station 23 weapons and Ky 255,619.25, as well as prisoners awaiting trial. A further battle took place at the suspension bridge in the center of the town, and the KIA tried to attack the market and railway station. Four enemy bodies and 2 weapons were found. The Army lost 3 dead and 5 missing; the Police lost 3 men; 3 locals were killed and 3 wounded. [map] (WPD 12/3) Dec. 5: Insurgents on Dec. 1 mined a passenger bus between Myawaddy and Kawkareik, near Kyaukaba village [Karen], injuring 3. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 10: 300 KIA insurgents, from those who attacked Mohnhin Nov. 27, made a surprise attack Dec. 7 on the Pickuyuka camp of Platoon No. 2, No. 37 Burma Regiment near Sinbo village, Myitkyina Twp. [Kachin]. A police sentry camp fell, but the attack was repulsed with Air Force assistance. One Burma Army soldier was killed and 3 wounded; 3 police were killed and 8 wounded, with 15 weapons lost. 15 insurgents were killed. [map] (WPD 12/11) Insurgents Surrender Dec. 6: Between Nov. 3-19, 10 insurgents surrendered with their arms. (WPD 12/7) // Dec. 7: Between Nov. 20-27, 7 insurgents surrendered with their arms. (WPD 12/9) [names and details] Report on Me-tha-waw Battle Dec. 30: There were fierce battles between the KNU insurgents and the Burma Army from Sept. 26 on, but by Dec. 24 the Army had occupied the whole Me-tha-waw region. On Dec. 26, 600 KNU attacked the Antkyawgon camp (Bu-Thaw-Gyo in Karen), and pushed out Section 2 of the Forward No. 76 Burma Regiment. In the first week of October, KNU from the command headquarters security companies, Nos. 1,6, & 7 Brigades, totalling 1,000, continued to attack the five Me-tha-waw camps, forcing the Army to retreat on Oct. 12 and to abandon the Kahsanali and Yeikkha camps. The KNU offensive, led personally by KNU adjutant general Saw Hla Htoo, continued, with insurgents from KNU Nos. 2 & 3 Brigades and the NDF. The Burma Army under the Forward No. 44 & No. 66 Light Infantry Divisions counterattacked Dec. 16, and captured Me-tha-waw Point 1778 Hill on Dec. 16, Antkyawgon on Dec. 20, and Kahsanali Hill and Reikasakan Gon on Dec. 22. The NDF and KNU Brigades 1,2,3,6 & 7 retreated to the eastern sector of the Thaungyin River. The Burma Army captured the whole region on Dec. 24. In total there were 85 major battles and 145 skirmishes from Sept. 26-Dec. 22. 242 Tatmadawmen, (including 12 officers) died; 922 (incl. 49 officers) were wounded; 11 (incl. 2 officers) are missing; and 65 weapons and a radio were lost. Captured were 204 corpses, 22 weapons, a radio, 106 bombs, 10,865 rounds of ammunition, 18 grenades, 47 mines, and 123 cartridges. Over 400 insurgents were killed and many wounded. [map] (WPD 12/31) ECONOMIC Foreign Investment Law Nov. 30: The State LORC enacted Law No. 10/88 of Nov. 30, on Foreign Investments [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council hereby enacts the following Law:-- Chapter I. Title and Definitions 1. This Law shall be called the Union of Burma Foreign Investment Law. 2. The following expressions contained in this Law shall have the meanings given hereunder:-- (a) "Commission" means the Union of Burma Foreign Investment Commission; (b) "Government" means the Government of the Union of Burma; (c) "Citizen" includes an associate citizen or a naturalized citizen. The said expression also includes an economic organization formed with local investment only; (d) "Foreigner" means a person who is not a citizen. The said expression also includes an economic organization formed with foreign investment only. (e) "Promoter" means any citizen or any foreigner submitting an investment proposal to the Commission; (f) "Proposal" means the prescribed application submitted by a promoter to the Commission for approval of an intended investment and the accompanying draft contract; (g) "Permit" means the order in which the approval of the Commission of a proposal is expressed; (h) "Foreign Capital" includes the following which are invested in an economic enterprise by any foreigner under a permit:-- -- foreign currency; -- property actually required for the enterprise and which is not available within the State such as machinery, equipment, machinery components, spare parts and instruments; -- rights which can be evaluated such as licences, trade marks and patent rights; -- technical knowhow; -- re-investment out of benefits accrued to the enterprise from the above or out of share of profits; (i) "Investor" means a person or an economic organization making an investment under a permit; (j) "Bank" means any bank of the State. Chapter II. Applicable Economic Activities 3. The law applies to economic activities prescribed by the Commission from time to time with the prior approval of the Government. Chapter III. Basic Principles 4. Foreign investments shall be made in accordance with the following basic principles:-- (a) promotion and expansion of exports; (b) exploitation of natural resources which require heavy investment; (c) acquisition of high technology; (d) supporting and assisting production and service involving large capital; (e) opening up of more employment opportunities; (f) development of works which would save energy consumption; (g) regional development. Chapter IV. Form of Organization 5. Foreign investment may be made in any of the following forms: (a) investment made by a foreigner to the extent of one hundred percent foreign capital; (b) joint-venture made between a foreigner and a citizen. 6. (a) In forming under section (5):- (i) a sole proprietorship, a partnership and a limited company may be formed; (ii) if a joint-venture is formed the foreign capital shall be at least 35 percent of the total capital. (b) In forming as mentioned above, in carrying out the business and in liquidation on the termination of business, other existing laws of the state shall be complied with. Chapter V. Formation of the Commission 7. The Government shall form the Commission. Chapter VI. Duties and Powers of the Commission 8. The Commission may accept any proposal which in its opinion will promote the interests of the State and which is without prejudice to any existing law. 9. The Commission shall in scrutinizing a proposal take into consideration facts such as financial credibility, economic justification of the business enterprise and appropriateness of technology. 10. The Commission shall issue a permit to a promoter, on a proposal being accepted. 11. In case an extension, relaxation or amendment of the term of the permit or the agreement is submitted by those concerned, the Commission many allow thereof as it may deem appropriate. 12. The Commission shall take necessary and prompt action in respect of complaints made by investors on failure to receive fully, benefits entitled to under this Law. 13. The Commission may, at any time require a promoter or an investor to furnish such evidence or facts as the Commission may deem necessary. 14. The Commission may, for the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Law form such committees and bodies as may be necessary. 15. The Commission may prescribe the bank which shall transact financial matters under this Law. 16. The Commission shall, from time to time report its performance to the Government. It shall also recommend to the Government measures necessary to facilitate and promote foreign investments. Chapter VII. Contracts 17. In forming an economic enterprise under a permit, contracts shall be executed as may be necessary. 18. The Commission may, upon application by those concerned allow the extension, relaxation or amendment of the term of a contract or agreement as may be appropriate. Chapter VII. Insurance 19. An economic organization formed under a permit, shall effect insurance with the Myanma Insurance Corporation in respect of the prescribed types of insurance. Chapter IX. Appointment of Personnel 20. In appointing personnel in an economic organization formed under a permit, preference shall be given to citizens, provided that the Commission may, if necessary, allow the appointment of experts and technicians from abroad. Chapter X. Exemptions and Reliefs 21. The Commission shall, for the purpose of promoting foreign investments within the State, grant the investor exemption or relief from taxes mentioned in sub-section (a) out of the following exemptions or reliefs from taxes. In addition the Commission may grant any or more than one or all the remaining exemptions or reliefs from taxes:- (a) in respect of any enterprise for the production of goods or services, exemption from income-tax for a period extending to 3 consecutive years, inclusive of the year of commencement of production of goods or services; in case where it is beneficial for the State, exemption or relief from income-tax for a further reasonable period depending upon the success of the enterprise in which investment is made; (b) exemption or relief from income-tax on profits of the business if they are maintained in a reserve fund and re-invested therein within 1 year after the reserve is made; (c) right to accelerate depreciation in respect to machinery, equipment, building or other capital assets used in the business, at the rate fixed by the Commission to the extent of the original value for the purpose of income-tax assessment; (d) if the goods produced by any enterprise are exported, relief from income-tax up to 50 per cent on the profits accrued from the said export; (e) right of an investor to pay income-tax payments to the State on behalf of foreigners who have come from abroad and are employed in the enterprise and the right to deduct such payment from the assessable income; (f) right to pay income-tax on the income of the above-mentioned foreigners at the rates applicable to the citizens residing within the country; (g) right to deduct from the assessable income, such expenses incurred in respect of research and development relating to the enterprise which are actually required and are carried out within the State; (h) right to carry forward and set-off up to 3 consecutive years from the year the loss is sustained in respect of such loss sustained within 2 years immediately following the enjoyment of exemption or relief from income-tax as contained in sub-section (a), for each individual enterprise; (i) exemption or relief from customs duty or other internal taxes or both on machinery, equipment, instruments, machinery components, spare parts and materials used in the business, which are imported as they are actually required for use during the period of construction; (j) exemption or relief from customs duty or other internal taxes or both on such raw materials imported for the first 3 years' commercial production following the completion of construction. Chapter XI. Guarantees 22. The Government guarantees that an economic enterprise formed under a permit shall not be nationalized during the term of the contract or during an extended term, if so extended. 23. On the expiry of the term of the contract, the Government guarantees an investor of foreign capital, the rights he is entitled to, in the foreign currency in which such investment was made. Chapter XII. Foreign Capital 24. The Commission shall evaluate the foreign capital in terms of Kyats in the manner prescribed, and register it in the name of the investor. In so registering, the types of the foreign capital and the type of the foreign currency evaluated shall be stated. 25. In the event of termination of business, the person who has brought in foreign capital may withdraw foreign capital which he is entitled to withdraw as prescribed by the Commission within the time stipulated. Chapter XIII. Right to Transfer Foreign Currency 26. The following shall be transferable abroad in the relevant foreign currency through the bank prescribed by the Commission, at the prevailing official rate of exchange:- (a) foreign currency entitled to by the person who has brought in foreign capital; (b) foreign currency permitted for withdrawal by the Commission to the person who has brought in foreign capital; (c) net profits after deducting from the annual profits received by the person who has brought in foreign capital, all taxes and the prescribed funds; (d) legitimate balance, after causing payment to be made in respect of taxes and after deducting in the manner prescribed, living expenses incurred for himself and his family, out of the salary and lawful income obtained by the foreign personnel during performance of service in the State. Chapter XIV. Matters Relating to Foreign Currency 27. An economic organization formed under a permit shall open in the bank prescribed by the Commission, a foreign currency account in the type of foreign currency accepted by the bank, and a kyat account and carry out all financial transactions relating to the business enterprise. 28. Foreigners serving in any such economic organization shall open a foreign currency account and a kyat account in any bank prescribed by the Commission. Chapter XV. General Provisions 29. The Commission shall hold meetings in the manner prescribed. 30. The decisions of the Commission made under the powers conferred by this Law shall be final and conclusive. 31. No suit or prosecution or other proceeding shall lie against any member of the Commission or committee or body or any public servant for any act done in good faith under this Law. 32. For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Law the Government may prescribe such procedures as may be necessary and the Commission may issue such orders and directives as may be necessary. Sd/-Saw Maung General, Chairman, The State Law and Order Restoration Council. --+-- Statement on foreign investment law of Burma [text]: The Government of the Union of Burma has been striving hard to promote all round development of national economy to improve provisions of food, clothing and shelter for the people so as to ameliorate their living standards. In this connection steps have been taken to ensure mass participation with maximum utilization of the faculties of people and induce foreign investment on the basis of equality and mutual benefit. The Government has also envisaged such policy objectives as exploitation of abundant resources of the country with a view to catering to the needs of the nation in the first instance; exporting whatever surplus available; creation of new employment as the economic activities expand so that especially young people would have great job opportunities and privileges of learning on-job training as well as technical training both inland and abroad, economic and social development of various regions of the State along with expansion and improvement of transport and communications. Foreign investors who invest and operate on equitable principles would be given the right to enjoy appropriate economic benefits, to repatriate them, and to take their legitimate assets back home on closing of their business. They would also be given proper guarantee by the Government against nationalization of their business in operation. All these rights and privileges would be granted in the interest of the Union of Burma and its people. At present, enquiries are being made by foreign companies and persons wishing to make investments in the State in a reasonable manner. Similarly, enquiries and contacts are also being made by citizens. It is desirous that a Commission of a high calibre be formed so as to scrutinize the proposals and to coordinate all matters concerning enterprises which may be permitted. As it is necessary to make legal provisions for the above mentioned matter, the State Law and Order Restoration Council has enacted the Foreign Investment Law. (WPD 12/1) Trade Minister Explains Law Dec. 1: Minister for Trade Col. Abel explained the new Foreign Investment Law to journalists. In addition to outlining the Law's principal features, he noted that "foreign investment work would be undertaken based on the interests of both parties and there would be no tight restrictions." No foreign banks would be opened, and "the State commercial bank would be opened separately for this work." In undertaking foreign investment, "industrial enterprises which could utilize the natural resources of the country" would be preferred, but mining and fishing [investments] would also be allowed. (WPD 12/2) Chinese Border Trade Dec. 1: Private entrepreneurs and cooperative societies, as well as Governmental organizations, have the right to "do the Burma-China border trade business." Governmental organizations may import 100% of what they export, as they wish. Private entrepreneurs may import 60% of exports as they wish, and must import the remaining 40% for the Myanma Export Import Corporation (MEIC) in goods on the MEIC priority list. Cooperative societies may import 75% of exports as they wish, and must import 25% for MEIC. These goods will be paid for by MEIC in local currency at the fixed exchange rate. Inquiries may be made through MEIC at its office at No. 577/622 Merchant St., Rangoon (Tel. 80266, ext. 308, and 78583) and at MEIC branch offices in Mandalay, Lashio and Muse. In his Dec. 1 press conference, Minister for Trade Col. Abel said that total border trade, including China-Burma trade, was expected to total US$ 300 million in 1988-89. (WPD 12/1) Services Resumed Dec. 1: The Rangoon Zoological Gardens and Natural History Museum reopened, with about 4,000 visitors. There are "merry-trains, merry-go-rounds, elephant carts and pony carts" as well as two foodshops and photo studios. (WPD 12/2) Dec. 5: Maha Bandoola Park [Rgn] reopened, and will be open from 8am to 6 pm. 50 pya admission will be charged for those over 5 years old. (WPD 12/6) // Dec. 8: Hours extended to from 5 am to 6 pm, as of Dec. 9. (WPD 12/9) Dec. 7: Cinema halls in Moulmein, closed during the disturbances, resumed screening pictures Nov. 11. The two cinema halls in Thaton and the two in Pa-an resumed Dec. 1. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 21: The Kandawgyi recreation center and Bogyoke Aung San Park are to reopen by Jan. 1, 1989. Facilities are being repaired and refurbished. The Aung San Park, neglected for 20 years, covers 563.508 acres. 265 soldiers and 40 Development Committee workers are engaged in the project. The 9.08 acre Thakin Mya Park in Ahlone Township, virtually abandoned, is also being rebuilt with a workforce of 150 soldiers and 50 city employees on weekdays and 400 people on weekends. The 7.5 acre Maha Bandoola Park in Kyauktada Township, downtown Rangoon, has also been refurbished and was reopened Dec. 5. [details given] (WPD 12/22) Tour of Rice Areas Dec. 3-13: In November local journalists were taken on tours of rice producing areas of Irrawaddy, Rangoon, and Pegu Divisions, leading to a series of articles by Win Htay, Myint Lwin, and Aung Nyunt. In Pegu Division, 25,356,000 baskets of paddy will be purchased by 152 buying centers, at the rate of 12 baskets per acre. The weather has been good. As of November, of 2,087,195 acres of paddy planted, 2,060,171 met with success; hence 129,003,292 baskets will be produced, or 62.62 baskets per acre. A second survey will be made in December. Of the cultivated acres, 355,279 were in special Emahta species, 1,211,485 in good-yield species, and 520,431 in local ordinary species. Hsin Ekayi (1) was grown on 308 acres, Hmawbi (2) on 39,058 acres, and Inma Yebaw on 262,946 acres. Further details were given for several townships and centers in the Pegu area, including the Central Command. Rangoon Division is divided into the Insein, Rangoon, and Hanthawaddy Sectors. The Hanthawaddy Township Sector, (comprising Syriam, Kyauktan, Thongwa, Kayan, Twante, Kawhmu, Kungyangon, Dalla, and Seikkyi-Kanaungto Townships) planted 792,434 acres of paddy in 1988-89, of which 764,300 were successful. Output will be 47,140, 036 baskets, or 61.68 per acre. Details of Thongwa Township production. Food prices in Thongwa Twp. are: pork at Ky 28 per viss; chicken Ky 32; fish Ky 38-40; prawn Ky 55-60; and beef Ky 30. In the Insein Township Sector (comprising Taikkyi, Htantabin, Hmawbi, Hlegu, So. Okkalapa, Thingangyun, No. Okkalapa, Mingaladon, and Insein Townships), a total of 405,045 acres was planted in paddy, of which 380,343 acres will be successful, with a projected crop of 23,261,491 baskets or 61.16 per acre. Details were given of Hmawbi Township, where a farmer is quoted as saying: "This year, the farmers are lucky. They do not have to pay taxes in kind. They do noot have to sell paddy as cetana paddy or sanda (voluntary) paddy. They have to sell only 12 baskets of paddy per acre to the Agricultural and Farm Produce Trade Corporation. Out of these earnings, the debt the farmer owe[s] to the State will be deducted and the remaining amount will be paid to the farmer. This year's yield will be at least 59 baskets of paddy per acre. The farmer has to sell 12 baskets per acre to the Government. Hence, the remaining 47 baskets may be utilized as he pleases. In addition, the Government provides transportation fees of K 50 per 100 baskets of paddy to farmers. The merchants are also offering K 4,000 to K 4,500 for 100 baskets of paddy and hence it is certain that the farmers will get a lot of money." In Irrawaddy Division, of 3,222,000 acres of paddy, 3,060,000 were successful, and are expected to produce 200,800,000 baskets, or 65.36 per acre. Of this, there were successful plantings of 790, 000 acres of special high yield paddy (80 baskets per acre), 1,332, 000 of ordinary high yield (66.50), and 938,000 of ordinary species (51.41). Details given for various areas in the Division. The untimely late rains did not affect paddy production. (WPD 12/3-7,9,11-13) Car Import Rules Dec. 3: A feature article by Pway Hla-Myat Thu discusses the new rules for private import of cars. The following may apply for car import permits: (a) Government servants assigned to foreign duty; (b) Citizens working abroad on State-made arrangements; (c) Citizens working abroad on private arrangements approved by the State; (d) Citizens receiving abroad an award or grant for literary or social achievements; (e) Those registered as importers with the Ministry of Trade; (f) Burmese who receive foreign currency from abroad through the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank. They must satisfy the following conditions: (a) Show sufficient legitimately saved foreign currency; (b) Citizens working abroad must show full payment of income tax while abroad; (c) Vehicles should not be shipped until the permit has been granted; (d) For trade purposes the individual must be a registered importer. Applications should be filed on the proper form, with a Ky 3 revenue stamp, accompanied by: (a) Original proforma invoice or sales contract; (b) bills of lading of any previously imported vehicles; (c) evidence of foreign exchange savings; (d) for persons working abroad, evidence of full payment of income tax. Applications should be sent to: (a) Government servants: to respective Ministries; (b) Sailors: to Ministry of Transport and Communications; (c) Those working abroad: to Ministry of Trade; (d) Registered importers: to Ministry of Trade; (e) Citizens receiving foreign exchange from abroad: to Ministry of Trade. The receiving Ministry will obtain an endorsement by the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank as to the foreign currency saved, and send the application to the Ministry of Trade with a recommendation for issuance of the import permit. The following should be noted: (a) Those abroad wishing to send a vehicle to their wives, children, parents, or natural brothers and sisters should so mention in their applications; (b) If someone with an import right dies, the approved heir may apply to import a vehicle; (c) Customs duty at 5% of C.I.F. must be paid within 1 month of the permit's issuance; (d) Import licences are non-transferrable; (e) Vehicles must be imported within 6 months, unless an extension is obtained; (f) Vehicles may be transferred and sold without restrictions. Only one vehicle may be imported at a time. Persons with legitimate foreign currency may also buy reconditioned motor vehicles directly. Soon, brand new vehicles will also be available for direct purchase. --+-- The Vehicle and Machinery Stores Corporation, Ministry of Trade, has sold 15 pickups and 6 saloon [sedan] cars. Arrangments are being made to sell 7 pickups and 6 saloon cars. (WPD 12/3) Minerals Dec. 5. A feature article on "Rare & precious mineral deposits of Burma" by Myo Htet discusses Burmese gems, noting the huge profits made by a "neighbouring country" on smuggled Burmese gems. The world's largest ruby, from Burma, was sold by Sotheby's in New York on Oct. 18, 1988 for US$ 15 million. World's best jade comes from Kamaing/Hpakant area of Kachin State. There is world standard coal in Shan State and the Chindwin Valley; the Namtu area of northern Shan State produces pure silver, silver and lead. Tin and tungsten are found in northern Shan State, the Mawchi area of Karen State, and the Sittang Valley. Gold is panned from Upper Burma rivers. Amber is mined in Hukong Valley but is substandard quality. There is much unexploited copper, coal, iron, zinc, antimony, silver, and wolfram. Uranium is found in upper Shan State. Insurgents smuggle out much minerals from border areas. Mines in the Thonze mountain range near Rosparay village, Mongmaw area, northern Shan State, produce chromium, silver and lead which is smuggled out to "the other country" in 2-10 lorry-loads daily. The Ohnpalone mountain range near Khumar village, southeast of Panewaing, "like Younparay mine" produces silver, lead, and pure silver which is smuggled. Silver, pure silver, and titanium are exploring mines in the Phaungsaing area, for smuggling. Karen State produces many minerals; gold is produced in the Indawgyi area, along the Nampinghaung (stream) near Namhsadon village, and the gold-panning camp of Tainkawgyi. Good spinelle is produced between Sunlar and Tangparin villages on the western sector of the Shweli River. Insurgents are smuggling lead and mineral ores from the Khamaung [Mine?], Thongwa Mine, Kunchaung Mine, Khephyuchaung Mine, Yekyichaung Mine, Maung Hla Chaung Mine, Likotaung Mine, and Wahbotaung Mine in Karen State. Secret foreign studies show that the lead and mineral ores in Mon State and Tenasserim Division include Tuntal (Ta), a strategic metal, extensively used in making computers. Spinelle, jade and rubies are produced in Karen and Mon States and Tenasserim Division. (WPD 12/5) Investment Commission Formed Dec. 7: Government Notification No. 12/88 of Dec. 7, in accordance with Section 7 of the Foreign Investment Law, establishes the "Union of Burma Foreign Investment Commission," with the following membership: Chairman: Minister for Planning & Finance. Members: Ministers for Trade, Industry (1), Industry (2), Energy, Agriculture & Forests, Transport & Communications, Mines, Construction, Livestock Breeding and Fisheries, and Co-Operatives. The Chairman may appoint the Secretary of the Commission and assign duties. (WPD 12/7) Investment Procedures Dec. 7: Government Notification No. 11/88 of Dec. 7 provides procedures for implementing the Foreign Investment Law [above] [text of significant sections, sometimes condensed in format]: Chapter I. Title and Definition Chapter II. Formation of Commission [see Foreign Investment Commission, above]. Chapter III. Economic Activities which may be carried out 5. The Commission shall with the prior approval of the Government publish a list showing types of economic activities in which foreign investment may be made. In connection with this matter replies shall also be given when enquiries are made. Chapter IV. Submission of Proposal 6. A promoter shall state the following particulars in submitting a proposal:- [subsections (a) - (u) specify information to be provided; included in detail in Form (1) described below.] 7. An application containing the above particulars shall be made in the attached Form (1) and shall be signed in person by the promotor and submitted together with the said application. 8. If it is an economic enterprise in which foreign capital to the extent of one hundred per cent is brought in to the State and invested, the promotor shall submit together with the application, draft contract to be executed with an organization determined by the Ministry concerned. Chapter V. Scrutiny of Proposal 9. The Commission shall scrutinize financial credibility in the following manner:- (a) in cases where necessary, to examine the audited annual final accounts of the person who will bring in foreign capital; (b) to require Myanma Foreign Trade Bank to make enquiries through its foreign correspondent banks regarding the business standing of the person who will bring in foreign capital; (c) to call for supporting evidence and to scrutinize the same as to whether any citizen subscribing capital actually has sufficient capital or not. 10. The Government shall scrutinize the following particulars with regard to the economic justification of an enterprise in which investment is to be made: (a) estimated annual net profit; (b) estimated annual foreign exchange earnings and requirements; (c) recoupment period; (d) prospects of new employment; (e) prospects of increased national income; (f) local and foreign market conditions; (g) requirement for local consumption; (h) prospects of foreign exchange savings. 11. The Commission may form technical bodies as may be necessary in order to scrutinize the appropriateness of technology. 12. The Commission shall scrutinize application containing the proposal and the draft contract after obtaining the opinion of departments or organizations concerned. Chapter VI. Issue of Permit 13. On approval of the proposal by the Commission, a permit in the attached Form (2) shall be issued. Chapter VII. Termination of Business before the Expiry of its Term 14. On submission of a desire to terminate the business by mutual agreement before the expiry of the term of the contract, the Commission may, based upon the following particulars scrutinize as to whether or not it is correct and justified, and allow the termination:- (a) substantial and continuous losses in the enterprise; (b) breach of the terms of contract by one of the parties to the same; (c) occurrence of force majeure; (d) incapability of implementing the original aims and objects of the enterprise. Chapter VIII. Insurance 15. An economic organization formed under a permit:- (a) shall effect the following types of insurance with the Myanma Insurance Corporation:- (1) Machinery Insurance; (2) Fire Insurance; (3) Marine Insurance; (4) Personal Accident Insurance. (b) may effect the following types of insurance, if so desired, with the Myanma Insurance Corporation:- (1) Contractors' All Risks Insurance; (2) Erection All Risks Insurance; (3) Electronic Equipment Insurance; (4) Other insurance accepted by the Myanma Insurance Corporation. 16. In effecting insurance the details shall be worked out in consultation with the Myanma Insurance Corporation. Chapter IX. Appointment of Personnel 17. An economic organization formed under a permit shall allow its personnel to enjoy, at least, the workmen's rights contained in the existing laws of the State. 18. The Commission shall, in permitting the appointment of foreign experts and technicians, carry out the following:- (a) prescribing the type, number and term of the required foreign experts and technicians according to the individual business organization; (b) in cases where necessary, obtaining the opinion of the Ministry of Labour. 19. An economic organization formed under a permit shall have the right to fix the salary and wage rates of its local personnel and foreign experts and technicians, to determine the payments of such salary and wages in kyat or foreign currency after consultation, and to terminate the services of such personnel. 20. An economic organization formed under a permit shall make arrangements for local and foreign training so as to ensure its local personnel proficiency in their work and promotion to higher ranks of services. Chapter X. Exemptions and Reliefs from Taxes 21. The Commission may, either by notifying on its own motion or on the application of the promoter or the investor, grant exemptions or reliefs from taxes. In so granting, the type of exemption or relief shall be specified. In necessary cases the period for such enjoyment shall be stipulated. Where rates of depreciation have been prescribed and allowed on capital goods, such rates shall also be specified. 22. The Commission on receiving the application may, after necessary scrutinization as to whether it is justified or not, grant such exemption or relief and period thereof, as may be appropriate. Such exemption or relief shall be intimated to the promoter or investor, and the departments and organizations concerned. 23. In allowing a deduction of expenses for research and development relating to the enterprise from the assessable income, the said allowance shall pertain only to those works of research and development which cannot be conducted by any department or organization of the State. Chapter XI. Evaluation and Registration of Foreign Capital 24. In evaluating foreign capital in terms of kyat for the purpose of registration by the Commission the following shall be carried out:- (a) to cause to be brought in foreign currency in any type of foreign currency acceptable to the Myanma Foreign Exchange Bank, and to evaluate the same at the prevailing official rate of exchange; (b) to cause the value of the types of foreign capital other than the foreign currency to be stated in any type of foreign currency acceptable to the Myanma Foreign Exchange Bank and to scrutinize whether the value of the respective foreign currency so stated is appropriate or not, and to evaluate such values so scrutinized at the prevailing official rate of exchange. 25. The Commission shall register the type of reinvested foreign capital in terms of kyat and in any type of foreign currency acceptable to the Myanma Foreign Exchange Bank. Chapter XII. Right to transfer Foreign Currency 26. Foreign currency entitled to be transferred abroad under section 26 of the Law shall be transferred through the Myanma Foreign Exchange Bank. 27. In determining the net profits transferable abroad the following funds shall be deducted:- (a) employees' bonus fund; contribution made by the employer to the employees' providential fund; (c) employees' social and welfare fund; (d) enterprise development fund; (e) such other funds as are required to be reserved according to commercial practise. 28. In determining the living expenses of the foreign personnel and of his family, the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank shall scrutinize on the basis of the following:- (a) cost of accommodation; (b) cost of messing; (c) salary and wages paid to menials such as domestic help, cook and driver; (d) household, medical and other expenses. Chapter XIII. Matters relating to Foreign Currency 29. An economic organization formed under a permit shall, for the purpose of carrying out financial transactions such as depositing, withdrawing and transferring foreign currency and kyat relating to the business, open a foreign currency account and a kyat account in the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank. 30. Foreigners serving in any such economic organization shall open a foreign currency account and a kyat account in the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank. Chapter XIV. Meetings 31 - 35. [provide for twice a month meetings of the Commission, etc.] --+-- Form (1) - Proposal of the Promoter to make Foreign Investment in the Union of Burma To The Chairman,/The Union of Burma Foreign Investment Commission,/ Rangoon,/The Union of Burma Reference No./Date I wish to make investment in the Union of Burma in accordance with the Union of Burma Foreign Investment Law, and I herewith apply for permission furnishing the following particulars:- 1. Promoter's --/ (a) Name/ (b) Father's Name/ (c) National Registration No./ (d) Citizenship/ (e) Address/ (f) Name of principal organization/ (g) Type of Business/(h) Place of organization/ (i) Place of incorporation 2. If investment is to be made by joint-venture, the particulars of the persons wishing to participate in the joint-venture with the promoter-- [(a) - (i) as above]. 3. Type of business in which investment is to be made--/ (a) Production/ (b) Services/ (to indicate name of goods or type of services). 4. Form of economic organization--/ (a) Sole Proprietorship/ (b) Partnership/ (c) Limited Company/ (to enclose the list of the name, citizenship, address and designation of the executives of the organization, indicating the local and foreign capital ratio). 5. If the organization is in the form of a partnership--/ (a) Capital ratio and amount to be contributed by the partners/ (b) Profit sharing ratio/ (c) Rights and liabilities of partners. 6. If the organization is in the form of a limited company--/ (a) Authorized capital/ (b) Types of shares/ (c) Share capital to be subscribed by the shareholders. 7. Particulars relating to the organization in which investment is to be made--/ (a) (kyat) Amount of capital/ (1) Amount of local capital to be contributed/ (2) Amount of foreign capital to be brought in/ Total/ (b) (kyat) Amount of foreign capital to be brought in--/ (1) Foreign currency/ (2) Others/ Total/ (c) Period for bringing in items mention in sub-paragraph (b)/ (d) Proposed duration of investment/ (e) Construction period/ (f) Commencement of construction. 8. Particulars relating to the proposed economic organization--/ (a) Type of business (to indicated production/services etc.)/ (b) Proposed place(s) at which investment is to be made/ (c) Technique of operation/ (d) Annual fuel requirement (to indicate type/quantity)/ (e) Annual electricity requirement/ (f) Annual water requirement (to indicate daily requirement, if any)/ (g) Annual equipment/raw materials requirement (to enclose a list of type/quantity/value)/ (h) Building requirement/ (i) Type of land and area requirement/ (j) Goods to be produced/services to be rendered (to indicate name, type, annual estimated quantity and value of the goods/services) (k) System of sales. 9. Details of foreign capital to be brought in:- (Foreign Currency) (Estimated Kyat Equivalent)/ (a) Foreign currency (type and amount)/ (b) Value of machineries, equipment etc./ (c) Value of raw materials and other similar materials/ (d) Value of rights which can be evaluated, such as licence, trade mark, patent rights/ (e) Value of technical know-how/ Total. 10. Details of local capital to be contributed:- (Kyat)/ (a) Amount of cash/ (b) Value of machineries and equipment (to enclose detail statement)/ (c) Building/Land/ (d) Value of furniture and office equipment (to enclose detail statement)/ (e) Value of raw materials (to enclose detail statement)/ Total. 11. Particulars relating to annual production/services- (Foreign Currency) (Estimated Kyat Equivalent)/ (a) Type and value of foreign exchange required/ (b) Amount of foreign exchange to be received/ (c) Amount of working capital requirement in kyat/ (d) Value of exportable goods/services/ (e) Value of annual local sale of goods/ services. 12. List of personnel required for the proposed economic organization-/ (a) Local personnel required- (Serial No.) (Type of personnel) (Number)/ (b) Foreign experts and technicians required- (Serial No.) (Type of expertise) (Number) (Proposed period of employment). 13. Particulars relating to economic justification- (Foreign Currency) (Estimated Kyat Equivalent)/ (a) Annual income/ (b) Annual expenditure/ (c) Annual net profit/ (d) Yearly investments/ (e) Recoupment period/ (f) Other benefits (to enclose detail calculations)/ (g) to mention prospects of new employment opportunities/local and foreign market conditions/foreign exchange savings. 14. Supporting documents for the proposal-/ The following documents are attached for the proposed investment-:/ (a) Draft contract; (b) References for business and financial standing; (c) Drafts of Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association. Signature/ Name/ Designation. --+-- Form (2) PERMIT Permit No. / Date The Union of Burma Foreign Investment Commission issues this Permit under Section 10 of the Union of Burma Foreign Investment Law. / (a) Name of Promoter/ (b) Citizenship/ (c) Address/ (d) Name and address of principal organization/ (e) Place of incorporation/ (f) Type of business in which investment is to be made/ (g) Place(s) at which investment is permitted/ (h) Amount of foreign capital/ (i) Period for bringing in foreign capital/ (j) Total amount of capital (Kyat)/ (k) Permitted duration of investment/ (l) Name of the economic organization to be formed in Burma/. Chairman, The Union of Burma Foreign Investment Commission (WPD 12/8) Cooperative Laws Amended Dec. 8: State LORC Law No. 1/88 [sic, prob. 11/88] of Dec. 8, entitled "Law Amending the Union of Burma Co-operative Societies Law, 1970," makes the following changes: (a) Preamble and Sections 3, 4(2), 26(1), 27(3)(5), 28(2), 37(4) deleted. (b) Section 19(2) deleted and and Section 19(1) becomes Section 19. (c) Section 2(1)(Cl. 21) replaced by: "21. "Auditor" means (i) a responsible person or an organization of the Co-operative Department at the various levels, (ii) a person or an organization who/which has been assigned duties by the office of the Union of Burma Auditor-General and its offices at the various levels and (iii) a person or an organization who/which has been assigned the duty of assisting the Co-operative Societies by the Government from time to time." (d) Heading of Chapter II changed to "Nature of work and Constitution of the Co-operative Societies." (e) Section 20(2) replaced by "(2) Co-operative Societies may obtain deposits or advances by any enterprise." (f) Section 44(2) replaced by "(2) acting contrary to the nature of work mentioned in section 4 by a co-operative society." --+-- State LORC Rules No. 11/88 of Dec. 8 amends the 1970 Co-operative Rules as follows: (a) Rule 36(1) replaced by "(1) I shall carry out the work of the Co-operative faithfully." (b) Rule 65(3) replaced by "(3) Members and personnel of the Primary Co-operative Society shall be taught subjects such as Co-operatives, Commerce and Accountancy." (c) Rule 66(4) replaced by "(4) to open training courses and to hold discussions for imparting knowledge in the subjects of Co-operation, Commerce and Accountancy to the members and personnel of the Primary Co-operative Society and to personnel of the Township Co-operative Society." (d) Rule 67(1) replaced by "(1) conducting training courses and discussions for the teaching of subjects of Co-operatives, Commerce, Accountancy and other required subjects with the object of strengthening and stabilizing the Co-operative Societies." (e) Rule 67(5) is deleted. (WPD 12/9) Army Welfare Shops Dec. 14: A feature article by Sein Shwe discusses the "Tatmadaw Welfare Shops." The army has opened 15 shops in Rangoon to provide cheap food items to "people of low income and low salary workers and Tatmadaw families." Army dependents run the shops, paid Ky 8.50 per day plus 5% of profits, and they are financed with regimental funds and loans from the Tatmadaw Commodity Supervision Committee. Military personnel and vehicles are used without charge, thus enabling cheap prices, and sales total Ky 150,000 daily in the 15 welfare shops, 10 opened Dec. 3 and 5 on Dec. 7. Prices are as follows: Rice -- Ky 5.75/pyi (compared with Ky 9-10 in the open market); Cooking oil -- Ky 19-20/viss (over Ky 40); Salt -- Ky 1.50/viss (Ky 4); Potato -- Ky 10/viss (Ky 12); Onion -- Ky 18-20/viss (Ky 28-30); Chicken -- Ky 35-36/viss (Ky 70-80); Pork/duck -- Ky 30/viss (Ky 40); Fish -- Ky 24/viss (Ky 45-50); Garlic -- Ky 19-20/viss [no comparison]; Salt fish -- Ky 25-26/viss. (WPD 12/14) Dec. 17-18: A feature article by Sein Shwe quotes customers' pleasure with the new shops. Sponsorship of shops described. (WPD 12/17-18) Dec. 21: A welfare shop was opened in Hinthada [Irrawaddy]. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 30: A welfare shop was opened in Insein Twp. [Rgn] (WPD 12/31) Private Goods in Gov't Stores Dec. 13: Government department stores in Rangoon, Mandalay, Taunggyi, Moulmein, and Bassein are now selling State-owned, co-operative, and private enterprise goods. In 1987-88 they sold Ky 168.9 million of State-owned goods; Ky 10.4 million of Co-op, and Ky 38.4 million of private goods. Department stores will soon be opened in Myitkyina and Monywa, and private entrepreneurs may sell goods there. (WPD 12/14) Export Rules Dec. 15: A feature articles by Pway Hla-Myat Thu discusses "Relevant facts concerning exports." Exports are of three kinds: (a) trade exports; (b) taking or sending goods by individuals; (c) exports relating to work. Trade exports must be made by registered exporters, who are encouraged and "will be permitted to import goods of an appropriate value." Personal exports include the following: (a) Departing passengers can take personal effects and a fair quantity of furniture and household effects, as determined by Customs; (b) In addition, under Ministry of Trade Notification No. 2/85 of Apr. 22, 1985, citizens may take, without export permit, up to 10 viss of various food products [specified], a Buddha under 1 foot high and accessories, painting under Ky 500, lacquerware under Ky 500, personal and professional books, gifts (like umbrellas, Shan bags) up to Ky 500; (c) Goods bought with foreign currency at the Diplomatic Stores, using the voucher as export permit; (d) A parcel under Ky 50 may be mailed; (e) Other items require export permits from the Ministry of Trade, and appropriate other permits for religious articles, cultural artifacts, recorded tapes, or videotapes. Goods exported for work, not requiring special permission, include: (a) goods exported by permission of the Trade Department; (b) supplies, spares, and personal effects for foreign-going vessels and crew; (c) transshipments; (d) items exported by the military; (e) items exported "on behalf of the head of diplomatic mission of a foreign country;" (f) wood and wood items with Timber Corporation special licence; (g) items not requiring export licence or permit, including: (1) film for development; (2) films that have been screened; (3) re-fillable gas containers; (4) machinery for repair; (5) free samples valued under Ky 100; (6) books, magazines, newspapers, postage stamps; (7) vehicles re-exported after import by foreigners; (8) parcels and mail returned to sender. Not included in these categories are exports governed by special departments, such as arms and ammunition by the Police, and wild animals by the Forests Department. Nor are exports by foreign experts and technicians. (WPD 12/15) Fishing Rights Agreements Dec. 19: An agreement regarding fishing rights in Burmese waters was signed between the Fisheries Corporation and the Sanwa Trading Co. Ltd. of Japan. Similar agreements have already been signed with 9 other companies, viz: Mars & Co. (Thailand) Co. Ltd., and Atlantis Corp. Ltd, from Thailand; Sophia Industries (M) Sdn Shd, and Hoi Soon Import & Export Co. from Malaysia; Andes Enterprises (HK) Ltd. from Hong Kong; Hsing Chaio Trading Pte Ltd from Singapore; Dongwon Industries Co Ltd, and Wooshin Sanghap Co. Ltd from Korea; and Taiyo Gyogyo Kabushiki Kaisha from Japan. (WPD 12/20) New Train Ticket System Dec. 22: Effective Dec. 25, advance sale and sale through Departmental permits of tickets on the Rangoon-Mandalay, Rangoon-Prome, and Rangoon-Martaban trains is cancelled. Tickets will be sold only the the platform where the train is to leave, one hour ahead of departure time. Each passenger must produce his National Registration Card to buy one ticket. Ticket holders will be separated by the platform wire mesh from those seeing them off. Free luggage will be allowed on express trains only. (WPD 12/23) Wholesale Food Prices Down Dec. 23: Wholesale food prices in Rangoon have gone down, as follows, between Dec. 1 and Dec. 23: Item Price (Ky): 12/1 12/23 Nga-kywe rice (bkt) 200 150 Emahta rice 150 140 Nga-sein rice 145 140 Groundnut oil (10 viss)505 490 Sesamum oil (10 viss) 460 450 Salt (100 viss) 200 195 Dried chilli-short (100 viss) 3,900 3,000 -do- long 3,700 3,000 Onion (100 viss) 1,100 700 Garlic (100 viss) 2,200 1,900 Potato [quantity?] 825 775 Beef (1 viss) 45 29 Pork (1 viss) 35 28 Chicken (1 viss) 45 40 Duck (1 viss) 35 30 Snakehead fish (1 viss) 30 28 Catfish (1 viss) 48 35 Hilsa (1 viss) 20 19 Nga-moke (1 viss) 20 20 Ngapani (1 viss) 18 18 (WPD 12/24) Rainfall in Rangoon Rainfall since January 1, 1988, in inches, at Rangoon's three weather stations of Rangoon Airport (RA), Kaba-Aye (KA), and Central Rangoon (CR) was: As of RA KA CR Dec. 1 99.17 100.00 107.76 Dec. 15 99.17 100.00 107.76 Dec. 30 99.17 100.00 107.76 HEALTH Ambulances for Hire Dec. 19: Beginning Dec. 12, Burma Red Cross ambulances may again be hired by telephoning 71111. The rate is fixed at Ky 40-50, depending on destination within Rangoon (zones described). (WPD 12/20) Indigenous Medicine Group Dec. 21: The Indigenous Medicine Practitioners Committee was reconstituted Dec. 13 with the following membership: Chairman: U Kyaw (indigenous medicine practitioner-IMP); Members: U Maung Nyan (IMP), U Mya Win (IMP), U Aye Chan (IMP), U Zawana (IMP), U Htut (rtd. educ. off.), U Nyan Lwin (IMP), Dr. U Mya Baw (med. and regist. off., Min. of Health); Secretary: Dr. U Aung Naing (ass't dir., indig. med., Min. of Health). The previous Committee, named Oct. 28, 1987, is annulled as of Dec. 12. (WPD 12/22) Blood Needed Dec. 24: Rangoon hospitals urgently need type "A" and type "B" blood for surgical cases, and the public is urged to donate to the National Blood Bank. (WPD 12/25) CULTURAL Religious Examinations Set Nov. 30: The 1989 Dhammacariya and Pathamabyan Examinations will begin simultaneously at designated centers on Mar. 28, 1989. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 5: The 41st Tipitakadhara Examinations will be held at the Phanyin Dhammayon of the Sasana Yeiktha, Rangoon, for 33 days beginning Dec. 25. 139 Sangha members will appear for the examination; 66 for the orals and 77 for the written. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 26: The examinations began yesterday. (WPD 12/27) Konbaung Period Writers Dec. 5: In the thirty-eighth in his series, Aung Moe turns to religious writers of King Mindon's reign. U Yam (or U Ram) was born in Thaminyin village, Salin Township, Minbu District in 1815, son of U Kyaw San (U Khaw San Ei) and Daw Lon Lay. He left the monkhood at 22 to join King Tharrawaddy as a Herald of the Byetaik, and composed his first work, a dhammathat. King Mindon named him Chief of the She-daw-pye Heralds, Supervisor of the Royal Barge, and Superintendent of the Royal Garden "Shwe Nan Hmyaw", and gave him the town of Magwe. He was also named Pitaka-taw Ok or Pitikat Taik Soe librarian., with title of Maha Thiri Zeyathu and the town of Maing Kaing as his fief. In 1856 he was tasked with copying the complete pitakas from old palm-leaf manuscripts, and headed over 100 pen-men and numerous sayadaw scholars. It took U Yam nine years to make three sets--one in ink, one in gold, and one in stylus engraving--comprising 480,000 palm-leaf pages each with 8 lines of writing; it was finished in 1865. A committee was formed in 1860 to copy the pitaka literature on marble slabs; it took eight years to complete 730 marble slabs, which were placed in the Kuthodaw Pagoda precincts. In 1871, King Mindon convoked the Grand Convocation of Sanghas, at which 2,400 monks recited the three pitakas, taking five months and three days, all organized by U Yam. Later, U Yam was named Superintendent of Letywegyi Royal Barge, and Commissioner Mingyi of the Eighth District of Sagaing, Amyin, and Alon. U Yam also authored 8 works of his own. After the fall of the dynasty, U Yam completed his Pitakat Thamaing, a chronicle of scriptural works, and a rare biography of Shin Maha Rattathara; he completed three more major works by 1888. He died in 1893, aged 78. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 12: In the thirty-ninth in his series, Aung Moe discusses "King Mindon's Sayadaws," who wrote mostly on religion. The Second Bagaya Sayadaw U Pinnya Zawta (1785-1860) was the son of Maung Khin and Mai Khin of Myaing village, Pakhangyi Township, with boyhood name of Maung Inn. He became a monk at 20 with the name of Shin Pinnya Zawta. In 1808, aged 23, he moved to Amarapura, where in 1838 the Prince of Pagan gave him a monastery in the Bagaya Monastery Estate. In 1846, he was named Thathanabaing by King Pagan. He wrote 7 treatises on religion in Burmese and Pali, and died in 1860, aged 75. The Sixth Nyaung-gan Sayadaw Shin Meda Linkara (1788-1861) was born in Nyaung Gan village, son of U Pyu and Daw Nyun, and was called Maung Kyee. He became a monk at 20, and studied in Ava. In King Tharrawaddy's reign he became a Sayadaw of the Pye (Prome) Prince, who gave him a monastery. He wrote a number of treatises, and died in 1861. Pin Sayadaw Shin Kawainda (1795-1850) was born in Titabyegan village, Meiktila Township, the son of U Kyar Htwar and Daw Hpyu; his boyhood name was Mung Lwan Pye. A monk at twenty, he lived in the Mehti Monastery in Ava and later in the Mehti Monastery south-east of Amarapura built for him by the Lord of Yenangyaung. He composed 13 scriptural texts, including one in Pali on medicine. He died in a bush fire while living in a tawya (woodland) monastery on Mogaung Hill in Meiktila, aged 58. Htut Khaung Sayadaw Shin Nyarna Wuntha (1798-1880) was born as Maung So in Myingon village near Layhmyethna in Hinthada district, son of land-holders U Lu Gyi and Daw May. As a novice, called Shin Nyarna Wuntha, he passed the Patamagyaw Examination at 19 and was ordained with King Bagyidaw's Queen as sponsor. At 28 he went into retreat and lived an austere life near the Ratna Htut Khaung pagoda in the Sagaing hills. In 1846 he was brought to a new monastery built for him by Princes Mindon and Kanaung. Mindon, when King, expanded the monastery until some 300 other ascetic monks were gathered there, and the Sayadaw then moved away 12 miles to the north. He is credited with 13 works of scriptures known as Pamouzza Kyans, only 8 of which have survived, and wrote kamahtan lingas written in every-day language for ordinary people. He died in 1880, aged 81. The Second Maung Daung Sayadaw Shin Nyeya (1799-1865) was born as Maung Than Hmo in Natretaung village, Kanni Township, the son of U Tun Wah and Daw Yar. A monk at 20, he camie to Amarapura in 1820 to study under Sinde Sayadaw and The-inn Sayadaw. In 1837 he became Thathanabaing under King Tharrawaddy, and received the same office again in 1853 under King Mindon. He wrote 16 scriptural works, including one on the Queries of the Myosar of Saw. He died in 1865, aged 66, in the Maha Talut Bonsan Golden Monasetery east of the Mandalay Palace. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 19: The fortieth in the series discusses "The Bhamo Sayadaw." U Pandita (1806-69) was born in Kut-hnyat-sin village, Shwedaung Townships, with the name of Maung Hpyu Win. As a novice he was known for his biting satiric verse. He moved to the capital and was given a monastery by King Bodawpaya's Bhamo Queen, the Assamese U-pawtara. Thus U Pandita became the Bhamo Sayadaw. He worked for some time recording the decisions of the Thathanabaing. Under King Mindon he became a Raza Guru, but remained known for his biting critical verses about notables and people he met. "He was rough in his writings, rough in speech, rough in his manners and incredibly rough in eating." At one time he was banished to Bhamo, but was recalled and went to live in Mingun. He wrote six treatises, mostly on vinaya and vinniciya. His instructions are still observed in the consecration of new simas. He died in 1877 at the Khodaung Tawya Retreat, Sagaing, aged 71. (WPD 12/19) Articles Published Dec. 30: Advertisement for Collected Articles, from the Loktha Pyithu Nezin and the Working People's Daily, to be published simultaneously in two volumes (Dec. 1988 and Jan. 1989) and sold in bookstores, etc. (WPD 12/30) MISCELLANEOUS Marriages Nov. 24: Khin Maung Htay, son of U Maung Khin and Daw Kyin Hla of Rangoon, was married to Ni Ni Than Lwin, daughter of U Tun Lwin and Daw Shin Shin Than of Rangoon. Reception was at the Inya Lake Hotel, Dec. 18. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 16: Saw Andrew and Naw Daffodil. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 18: Maung Myint Zaw, son of U Bo and Daw Kyin Kwan, was married to Ma Myat Khaing Than, daughter of Thuriya U Than Maung and the late Daw Mya Mya Than, at the Karaweik [Rgn]. (WPD 12/20) Crime News Dec. 3: Police in Nos. 2 & 12 Wards, Yankin Twp. [Rgn] on Nov. 29 arrested 17 heroin pushers, and seized 0.0193 kilos of heroin, Ky 4,411, 3 syringes, etc. [names] (WPD 12/6) Dec. 4: Eight persons were arrested in Tamwe Twp. [Rgn], accused of murdering one Myint Aung on Aug. 24. [names] (WPD 12/5) Dec. 7: Mandalay police on Dec. 3 arrested 3 traffickers with 2 kilos of Chu-hnat-kaung Ka-ba-lon brand heroin, worth Ky 180,000. Rangoon police on Nov. 30 seized 3 traffickers with 0.369 kilos of heroin worth Ky 110,000. [photos] (WPD 12/9) Dec. 9: Mandalay railway police on Dec. 3 seized two women about to board the Mandalay-Myitkyina train with 2.775 kilos of heroin worth Ky 277,500; subsequently 24 kinds of lab equipment and 11 bottles of chemicals were seized. [photos] (WPD 12/10) Dec. 12: Lashio police on Dec. 7 seized 3.5 kilos of Thein-kabalon brand heroin, and five persons were arrested. [photos] Three thieves who stole ironwork, valued at Ky 13,660, from power transmission towers between Bassein and Hinthada between Nov. 23-28 were arrested. (WPD 12/14) Dec. 14: Mayangon Twp. [Rgn] police on Dec. 9 arrested a con-man passing counterfeit currency notes. (WPD 12/15) Dec. 17: Railway police in Rangoon on Dec. 13 seized 6.042 kilos of marijuana from a woman from Monywa. Railway police in Lashio on Dec. 9 seized 20.58 kilos of raw opium from travellers about to leave for Mandalay. Police in Zigon Twp. [Pegu] on Nov. 21 seized 3.266 kilos of marijuana from a passenger on the Prome-Rangoon train. [photos] (WPD 12/18) Dec. 18: Rangoon police raided che-hti gambling establishments in Thingangyun and Pazundaung Twps. Dec. 16, seizing documents and Ky 9,398 in stakes, and arresting 8 gamblers. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 19: A robber gang was arrested, with its loot, on Dec. 17 in Mandalay Ward, Moulmein. 8 men were arrested, and the loot included 2 schooners, outboard motors, and 5 54 HP engines. Guns were also seized. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 20: Lanmadaw Twp. [Rgn] police arrested two che-ti gamblers with Ky 15,000 in stakes on Dec. 19. Sanchaung Twp. [Rgn] police arrested two che-ti gamblers with Ky 14,479 in stakes on Dec. 16. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 22: Lashio police on Dec. 9 seized 0.1755 kilos of heroin, from a car travelling between Kutkai and Mandalay. In another car, 1.69 kilos of heroin was seized. 4 persons were arrested. [photos] (WPD 12/23) Dec. 27: Rangoon police on Dec. 20 arrested three men, and seized 0.205 kilos of Chu-hna-kaung Kabalon brand heroin, and a syringe. [photos] (WPD 12/28) Subversive Crimes Nov. 30: Three men were arrested with suspicious documents Nov. 7 at the Marlaryon Kyaungtaik in Hlaing Twp. [Rgn]. One, U Thumingala (a) U Tun Aung, a monk, confessed to planning to blow up Rangoon power stations and lines. This led to the arrest of four others, one of whom, Aung Soe (28) was in charge of buying medicines for the National Liberation Front, an organization dedicated to "anti-government activities." Six of the seven are being prosecuted and one was released. [names and photos] (WPD 12/1) Dec. 7: On Nov. 18, 16 students shouted anti-government slogans on Sule Pagoda Rd. [Rgn]; two were arrested, and confessed to anti-government activities in October at the behest of the Burma Revolution Force led by Bahtoo Maung, including the Shwedagon Pagoda demonstration on the Fullmoon Day of Thadinkyut. As a result, 12 others were arrested. Of them, 13 are being prosecuted and 1 was released. [names & photos] (WPD 12/8) Dec. 13: Ten persons who beheaded a supposed "destructionist" on the Theinbyu overhead bridge Sept. 7 "during the disturbances" have been arrested and will be prosecuted for murder and theft. [photos]. Awards were given to 20 soldiers, 6 police, and 17 employees who defended the Dagon Aerated Waters and Ice Factory in Rangoon from attacks "during the disturbances." The Factory was reopened Oct. 4. (WPD 12/14) Dec. 18: Sixteen men have been arrested and were put on trial Dec. 12 for attacking a North Okkalapa [Rgn] police station on August 10, and decapitating four policemen. One was killed because the reflection from his bicycle mirror was mistaken for a camera taking photos of demonstrators, and three because of a rumor that police had shot a demonstrator. Investigation of other culprits continues. [names and photos] (WPD 12/19) Dec. 20: Information is wanted about two men implicated in beheading a woman and killing three men on Sept. 13. [Photos and identity data] (WPD 12/21) Dec. 20: 6 persons who decapitated two men in Kungyangon Twp. [Rgn] for supposed extortion on Sept. 18 have been arrested and are being prosecuted. 9 persons involved in hacking 3 people to death on Sept. 1 in Mayangon Twp. [Rgn] for supposed destruction of rail lines have been arrested and will be tried. [names] (WPD 12/22) Dec. 22: Police in Tamwe Twp. [Rgn] have arrested 16 persons charged with murdering and burying a man on Aug. 24, supposed to have been a robber and arsonist. [names & photos] Two persons, a teacher and a driver, were seized with explosives near Kinchaung village, Mudon Twp., Dec. 18. They had 1 claymore mine, 6 grenades, TNT, and other equipment, given them by the KNU. [photos] (WPD 12/23) Dec. 23: Tamwe Twp. [Rgn] police on Dec. 21 arrested a woman for stealing 9 sets of springs belonging to the Burma Railways Corporation, valued at Ky 4,500. (WPD 12/25) Dec. 26: Moulmein authorities on Dec. 25 arrested a man who had returned Dec. 21 from the KNU Thay-baw-bo camp with 2 grenades, 5 detonators, and other explosive material. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 27: Fifteen persons implicated in the mob murder of two men on Sept. 19, supposed guilty of arson, have been arrested by Kemmendine Twp. [Rgn] police and were indicted Dec. 8. [names & photos] (WPD 12/28) Obituaries Nov. 29: Thiri Pyanchi Sithu U Maung Maung, former Secretary, Ministry of Defence and Ambassador to Cambodia and Bangladesh, husband of Daw Khin Ma Gyi, died in Rangoon, aged 72. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 3: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Dhama Pala Maha Thera, Padhanna Nayaka of Myit-zi-mayon Kyaung, Taungyin village, Kyaukpyu Twp. [Rakhine], vassa 69 Vara, died, aged 89. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 5: Daw Aye Kyi (Moulmein), wife of Dr. Hla Baw, died in Rangoon, aged 67. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 5: Thakin San Myint (Bo Yan Naung), BDA/BIA, Naing Ngangon Ye (Class I), Mawgun (Class (I), Ex-Minister AFPFL, Thanatpin, husband of Daw Khin Ngwe Phyu (Dulcie), father of Daw Cho Cho Myint (Mozar) (Australia), Daw Sanda Myint (UNICEF), Ma Phyu Phyu Myint, died in Rangoon, aged 66. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 8: U Htin Aung, B.Sc, B.L., Savings Bank (1) (Rtd.), son of Daw Tin Hla, husband of Daw Khin Win (AFPTC), died in Rangoon, aged 51. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 10: Mrs. Ivy Coote, retired teacher, wife of the late Mr. V. E. Coote, died in Rangoon, aged 78. (WPD 12/11) Dec. 11: Finian F. Francis (alias) U Thein Myaing, rtd. Head of the Engl. Dept., Moulmein University, died in Moulmein, aged 62. Burial in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Moulmein. (WPD 12/13) Dec. 17: Cedric Arthur Crampton, brother of Jimmy, Mary Ann, Clotilda, Audrey, died in Rangoon, aged 47. Funeral at St. Mary's Cathedral. (WPD 12/18) Dec. 17: Daw Khin Mya Mya, wife of rtd. Col. Maung Shwe, died in Rangoon, aged 62. (WPD 12/18) Dec. 18: Mr. H. B. Singh, retired engineer (MOC), (Syriam), husband of Daw Bi Bi of Syriam, died in Syriam, aged 82. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 19: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vasava Maha Thera, Padhana Nayaka of Weluwun Taikthit Pali Tekkatho, No. 1 Ward, Shwebo, Sagaing Division, vassa 58, died at the age of 77. (WPD 12/20) [Dec. 23: Dr. Lucien Mason Hanks, retired Professor of Anthropology at Bennington College, Vermont, husband of Mrs. Jane R. Hanks of North Bennington, author of many publications on the Shan States and on the ethnic groups of the Thai-Burmese border, and valued member and friend of the Burma Studies Group, died in Barbados, aged 78. We shall miss him. (HCMacD.)] Dec. 23: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Indaka (Agga Maha Pandita), Padana Nayaka of Pathan Theikpan Kyaung, Sagaing, Rattannu Maha Nayaka of Shwekyin Nikaya Gana, vassa 67, died at the age of 86. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 25: Sithu U Tin Maung (a) Myat Htan, writer, rtd. Colonel, BC 3517, Naing-ngant Gon Yi Ist Class, Indep. Mawgun gr. 2, Japanese Milit. Acad., 1st batch, husband of Daw Nang Wu Hkam (Daw Khin Nu Tin), died in Rangoon, aged 70. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 26: U Maung Maung Thein (a) Johnny, M.V. Aung Zeya, husband of Daw Sein Hla (Ruby Patail), died in Rangoon, aged 42. Burial in Tamwe Muslim Cemetery. (WPD 12/28) Dec. 27: Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi, widow of Bogyoke Aung San, mother of U Aung San U, the late Ko Aung San Lin, and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi (wife of Dr. Michael Aris), grandmother of Maung Myint San Aung and Maung Htein Lin, died in Rangoon, aged 77. [See further details under MISCELLANEOUS, below] (WPD 12/28) Fire Dec. 5: A fire destroyed 7 houses on Sethmulethmu No. 4 Road, Myitta-nyunt Ward, Tamwe Twp. [Rgn], leaving 93 persons from 17 households homeless. Aid is being provided. (WPD 12/6) Schooner Sinks Dec. 15: The motor schooner Yadana, of Moulmein, capsized in a storm at Maungmakan Taung Htut and north of Lounglon on Dec. 9. Its 22 passengers and 17 crewmen were all rescued by a fishing boat. (WPD 12/16) Squatters Removed Dec. 15: Rangoon Commander Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt said "7,000 households from squatters in the Rangoon City Development area" had been removed, and that aid was requested in removing the squatter huts. (WPD 12/16) Make Rangoon Beautiful Through the month, there were frequent photographs of public and other buildings being painted and renovated "to make the city beautiful." There were also repeated articles, with photos, of employees and military personnel engaged in "sanitation work for keeping Rangoon City clean and pleasant." Dec. 20: A feature article by Soe Myint covered the cleanup effort, and garbage disposal. Streets are cleaned from 6-9 am, garbage is collected from 8am to 4 pm, and market garbage is collected from 4-10 pm. On weekends army, police, sanitation and other personnel "collectively collect garbage, dredge drains and clean wards and markets in 27 townships covered by the RCDC." Daily garbage collection is 500 tons, but rises to 2,000 tons on Saturday and Sunday. As of Dec. 7, 14,229 tons of garbage was collected, by 45 garbage trucks, 30 trailers, and 25 trucks. It is taken to the "low-lying area in Thaketa Township, near Ngamoeyeik Creek in Thingangyun Township, near the cemetery in Insein Township, and in the Chettiya temple compound in Kamayut Township." A 20 member team under Dr. Maung Maung Lin is in charge of mosquito control, and is divided into 4 groups. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 31: "Tourist attraction. Rangoon, the capital of Burma, now looks like a new city smart and beautiful. The buildings in the city have a new look with fresh paints. Garbage-free roads and roads void of illegal vendors are a pleasant scene for all. To preserve the newness, beauty and pleasantness of Rangoon, not only sanitation work but also the work of repainting and renovating buildings is being carried out in crescendo by the members of the Tatmadaw and the people from all walks of life. Maintenance and repair work for parks, playgrounds and gardens are also under way. Likewise, measures are being taken for cleanliness and pleasantness in other major towns in the country." (WPD 12/31) Aung San's Widow Dies Dec. 27: Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi, widow of Burma's National Leader and Father of the Tatmadaw Bogyoke Aung Gyi, died in Rangoon, aged 77. She was born in Myaungmya, Apr. 16, 1912, daughter of U Pho Hnyin and Daw Phwa Su, and was educated at the Kemmendine A.B.M. Girls' School, Rangoon, and the Morton Lane Teacher's Training College, Moulmein. She then trained as a nurse at Rangoon General Hospital and Dufferin Hospital. Evacuated to India in 1942, she met General Aung San and married him on Sept. 6, 1942. They had three children: Aung San U, Aung San Lin, and Aung San Suu Kyi. After Bogyoke Aung San's death in 1947, Daw Khin Kyi served as Member of Parliament 1947-48, and as Ambassador to India and Nepal 1960-67, as well as leading many social, welfare, and women's organizations. She left two grandchildren, Myint Aung San (Alexander) and Htein Lin (Kim). [photo] (WPD 12/28) Japanese Restaurant Ad FURUSATO Why waste time when there is delicious Japanese and Chinese food waiting for you at the Furusato Japanese Restaurant No. 137 West Shwe Gon Dine Rangoon Phone 52265 (WPD 12/20 etc.) +-+-+-+-+ TO SUBSCRIBE Write to Hugh C. MacDougall, 32 Elm Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Annual Subscriptions: U.S. (individuals) - US$ 30.00 U.S. (institutions) - US$ 40.00 Foreign - US$ 40.00 (by airmail); additional charge for US$ check on foreign bank-$4.00. NOTE: Checks should by payable to: Hugh C. MacDougall. Please indicate the monthly issue with which you wish your subscription to begin (available back to April 1987). +-+-+-+-+