89-01 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from THE WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. III, No. 1, January 1989 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans 1 Political Articles (Topics) 2 Students Returned Home 6 Returned Students Interviewed 8 Saboteurs and Weapons 9 Press Conferences 9 Rangoon Commander Speaks 12 "Let's Dissipate Doubts" 12 Saw Maung Meets Journalists 12 Foreign Journalists Tour 12 Warning on Party Schools 13 Detainees Released 13 ELECTIONS Party Registrations 14 Party New Year Greetings 17 Draft Election Law 17 Registration Deadline Set 17 Party Registration Changes 17 Warning on Party Publicity 19 DIPLOMATIC US Praises Late Daw Khin Kyi 19 Ambassador to Czechoslovakia 19 Ambassador to Vietnam 19 Officials Meet with Diplomats 19 New Year's Greetings 20 Ambassador to Laos 20 Ambassador to Australia 20 Ambassador to Indonesia 20 New Pakistani Ambassador 20 FOREIGN VISITORS Chinese Delegation Leaves 20 World Bank Delegation 20 Chinese Trade Delegation 21 Mauritian Trade Delegation 21 BURMESE DELEGATIONS UNESCO Delegation 21 BURMA GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 21 Transfer and Appointment 21 GOVERNMENT New Year's Honors 22 Meeting with BSI 22 MILITARY Donations to Military 22 Insurgents Surrender 22 Insurgent Atrocities 22 KNU Camp Captured 23 ECONOMIC Services Resumed 23 Paddy Purchases 23 Increased Gas Ration 23 Welfare Shops 24 Exporters Registered 24 Magwe Division 24 Chamber of Commerce Created 25 Rangoon Overpass 25 Car Import Regulations 25 Partnership Fees Raised 26 Foreign Exchange Accounts 26 Food Price Reductions 26 Border Trade Tariff Set 27 Rainfall in Rangoon 28 HEALTH Medical Act Amended 28 CULTURAL Konbaung Period Writers 28 Guardian Magazine 30 Maha Wizaya Zedidaw 30 Films Authorized 30 Pali Translations 30 Relics Donated 30 Morning TV Program 31 Pagan Painting 31 MISCELLANEOUS Crime News 31 Crimes of Disturbance Era 31 Engagement 32 Obituaries 32 Daw Khin Kyi Funeral 33 Fires 34 Advertisements 34 Divorce 34 +-+-+-+-+ Issues for Jan. 22 and Jan. 30 not received. +-+-+-+-+ POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans The political slogans quoted in the November issue continued to appear in each issue of WPD throughout January. Political Articles (Topics) Following the pattern begun in October, 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: Jan. 1: Action against `doctors', `medical students' and `Hsay-pyit-thu', by Hnin Maung. [Description of heroin dealers in Yankin Twp., Rangoon.] Jan. 1: Please think wisely and be cultured, by U Chit Oo. [Students should not disrupt Aung San's widow's funeral.] Jan. 1: New year, new man, new mind, new nation, by A Doctor. [Nation should unite and start afresh.] Jan. 2: The Mon Insurgents are ..., by Yebaw Thit Maung. 2. Their inability to stand on their own two feet and conflicts arose between them. [History of Mon insurgents from 1946.] [cont. from Dec. 31] Jan. 2: Should there be ill-will towards the Tatmadaw?, by Kaung Chit. [Honor the Army for its military and civic services.] Jan. 2: The extent of victory won at Me-tha-waw area, by Myo Htet. [Review of 1988 battle against KNU, concluding that KNU lost 700 men or 1/5 of its total strength.] Jan. 3: Unforgettable smiles, by Mi Khin Thant. [Returned students happy to be home.] Jan. 4: Daw Khin Kyi widow of Bogyoke Aung San, by Myo Set. [Biographic profile.] Jan. 4: The fruits of being independent, by Maung Maung San. [Independence requires discipline.] Jan. 4: Let us strengthen National Solidarity, by Thukhi Aung. [Burmese national groups must work together.] Jan. 5: Independence Day and the duty of the people, by Kyaw Khaung. [Army on the side of the people.] Jan. 5: To avoid evil and to do good, by Maung Po Hmat. [Historical damage done by disunity.] Jan. 6: Keeping the city clean, by Kyaw Nyunt Yee. [Army has cleaned up Rangoon; keep it that way.] Jan. 6: New Year thoughts, by Maung Maung San. [People should improve themselves.] Jan. 7: To turn Rangoon into a clean city, by Shwewa Kyai. [Rangoon has increased from 390,000 in 1941 to 960,000 in 1963 to over 2.5 million in 1983; the area has increased from 11 square miles in 1876 to 110 square miles today. Squatters are being resettled, and their are 638 plots in Myayadana, 504 in Padamya, 854 in Pyinmabin-south, and 1,857 in Htaukkyant. Squatters were removed to Hlaingthaya and Okpo beginning Nov. 17.] ["The population of Rangoon is now nearly four and a half million," (WPD editorial 1/9)] Jan. 8: The danger of outside interference, by Kyaw Shin. [Outside interference by US, French, and Australian citizens; British aid to assassins of Aung San recalled.] Jan. 9: Youth is the golden season of life, by Kyaw Zeya. [Inspirational article about youth.] Jan. 9: Everybody who wants justice must be clean and above-board, by Kyaw Zin Nyunt (Advocate). [Ignorance of the Law is No Excuse; calls for democracy were accompanied by "terrorist acts and...looting, murders and high treason."] Jan. 9: The Karen New Year Gift, by Saw Kyaw Aye (Pabedan). [Karens should support the LORC.] Jan. 10: Try your luck and win the prize, by Aungban Wai Myaing. [Historical background of State Lottery; abandon illegal che-hti gambling and support the lottery.] Jan. 10, 12: The danger of foreign interference, by Mya Win. [British opposed Aung San and supported his assassination. A big power intelligence service [the CIA] supported the KMT, using missionaries like Dr. Seagrave, and the Moss and Young families. The [CIA's] subordinate or support groups, the Ford and Asia Foundations, provided monks with audio-visual equipment to "deliver anti-communist speeches." [The CIA] "committed disruptive and destructive acts in Burma's economy" using the PL-480 law, and even interfered in the educational field. "With the recommendation of the Asia and Ford Foundations it opened John Hopkins University Library on Rangoon University Campus; it also constructed the building that now houses the Higher Education Department and the Recreation Centre. A students centre near the Thiri Hostel on Prome Road...was meant for gathering students for [Christian] religious purposes. The Ford Foundation also provided funds for the Mandalay University amounting to 2.4 million. When the expatriates were active in Burma the same intelligence organization airdropped using its planes propaganda pamphlets of the expatriate group in the country." This was exposed by writer U Thein Pe Myint in a series of articles. In the 1980's western big powers and Japan have aided the Karen, Kachin, and Karenni insurgents "who have much attachment to the west and so as to hinder and obstruct the mopping up operations of the Tatmadaw." "There was an instance in which some politicians from a big country [the U.S.] who were friendly with their President visited the KNU insurgent camps and promised aid. Dona Rohrabacher [sic], a member of parliament from that country, visited the Thay-Baw-Bo camp...during November 1988 and pledged that he would try to seek his government's help to put...pressure on Burma. He was a special assistant to the President for seven years. Greg Sharp, a person who was said to have close relations with the President, also arrived...during the latter part of December 1988 and said that he would collect 500,000 dollars as funds in the struggle for democracy which is being carried out under the `leadership' of KNU insurgents. The two students who returned from the KNU...said that two high-ranking military officers from that country had visited the KNU...and promised support to the students through the KNU insurgents.... "It is probable that the hostile interference of a big country in a small country is for no other reason than to make it its protege and dictate to it. It is learnt that in the internal political sphere too, some big countries made secret contact with anti-government elements in the beginning but they daringly dealt with some political parties almost every day after. It was also said that four students who led to cause disturbances on 17 March 1988 entered embassy of a big country and sought political asylum. "A politician, who is Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Sub-committee of a big country [Rep. Solarz--HCMacD.], visited Burma during September 1988 and met with prominent figures from Burma's political scene. He immediately reported to his government what he had found and issued a statement that he resolutely supported the anti-government movements. The House of Representatives of the country which he represented also laid down a resolution supporting his views. His government also declared that it would give support to the democratic movements of Burma. It is also learnt that a person, who is supposed to be a diplomat from that country and was on his short visit to Thailand on 5 January declared to journalists that the big Western governments would wrench the Burmese Government by putting pressure on it. He also used harsh words in criticizing the Burmese Government.... He reportedly spoke in praise of the leader who was on good terms with them, of the one of the well-known political parties in the Burma's political world and slandered other leaders politically.... [sic] "Burma is having to face the neo-colonialism... [which] is domination of a country by another and exploitation through interference in various fields including politics, economics, and military affairs."] Jan. 10,11,25: The Tatmadaw is not a dictatorial government, by Ye Gaung Kyaw Swa. [Atrocities during the disturbances. Rtd. Brig-Gen. Aung Gyi and rtd. Gen. Tin Oo on Sept. 17 failed to control "demonstrators and agitators" threatening to kill soldiers at the Ministry of Trade, and "absconded", leaving the Sangha to rescue the soldiers. "Why did they disappear at the critical moment? Was the indisciplined demonstration `democracy'?". ++-++ "It is heard that there is disunity and controversy among some political parties and that accounts within the parties have not yet been settled. Such personal matters and party internal matters ought to be solved first [before elections are held]. It is also heard that one of the big parties split in two, signboards were dismantled and quarrels arose." The Tatmadaw is essential to the nation. "Some of the party organizations seem to regard the Tatmadaw as an enemy. These parties are to be requested and stopped from regarding the Tatmadaw as an ememy. It is seen that the organizational work, activities and behaviours of some of the party organizations are still inadequate. The authorities concerned...have requested them not to act in such a way but they still persist in forcefully carrying out such activities." "[For example] some of the parties are hostile towards those [ward and village] authorities who request them not to put up...signboards.... `Does organization work depend on signboards?'... When there is an increase in the number of signboards...there will be clashes between one party and another...; there will be fights, stones may be thrown; and when [this] happens between individuals, the fight will spread like fire causing clashes between groups. In this way, it will cause instability in the State. Then the Tatmadaw will have to take control over the situation...." ++-++ "...if the multi-party democracy is practised prematurely it will cause harmful effects to the country again...." Aung San quoted to effect that there can be no true democracy without equal rights, and that capitalism is dictatorship under the guise of democracy. Foreign radio (BBC, VOA, All India Radio) seeks to sow discord and bring about disintegration of Burma. 2,288 students have returned as of Jan. 24; some students still in insurgent camps, and even aboveground, are still misled by rumors. They have not realized the cetana of the Government and the Tatmadaw. Everyone should co-operate with the Tatmadaw, because it is not dictatorial.] Jan. 12: Good friends are precious jewels, by Kyaw Zeya. [Avoid false friends.] Jan. 13: Save for old age and for paying taxes & revenues, by Oktha Aye. [Pay taxes willingly.] Jan. 13: Freedom and Discipline, by Maung Thawmana. [Discipline necessary for peace and tranquillity.] Jan. 14: Patriotic sons of Burma, by Khin Pyi Chit. [Heroism of Tatmadawmen.] Jan. 14: Read, Note down and Observe, by Than Htike Maung. [Public reminded of the texts of laws against harboring criminals, high treason, and unlawful assembly.] Jan. 14: To Daddy, Mummy and the People, by Ko Ko Oo. [Saga of girl students in KNU camps; there are 18 girls at Thay-baw-bo, 11 at Ka-la-day, and 9 at U Thuta camps. "As far as I know the number of students left there [in KNU camps] is in the thousands."] Jan. 15: Authenticity of news needs to be checked, by A reporter. [Falsity of Aug. 6 BBC news report by Christopher Gunnis exposed.] Jan. 15: Parks and gardens, the best places for rest and recreation, by Myat Tha and Soe Myint. [Tatmadaw is rehabilitating Rangoon's parks and public gardens.] Jan. 17: To enable students to return home, by Saw Hla Tun (Chaung-U). [Repentant returned student tells his story.] Jan. 17: Study the affairs of the State, by Bo Thanmani. [No need for an interim government; 1947 situation contrasted with present.] Jan. 18: Taking advantage of the situation at the expense of others, by Ye Gaung Kyaw. [Foreigners exploiting students in KNU camps.] Jan. 19: A matter of national welfare, by Mya Win. ["...for this critical moment, such democratic practices as freely carrying out organizational work and freely discussing and writing are against the `national welfare,' stability, unity and solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty and independence--and therefore it is only possible to allow such democratic practices with limitation.... The `national concern' of today is not fighting for the democratic system to be practiced. [It is] the fighting for preventing disintegration of the union, for preventing disintegration of national solidarity and for ensuring the perpetuation of its independence and sovereignty. "If the over 180 parties which have been formed on the basis of regional attachment, racialism and sectarianism are now permitted to freely carry out organizational work in conformity with democratic practices, the danger of the disintegration of the union will arise again immediately. The open-door economic enterprises based on free trade will be a failure and there will be economic crisis. Notwithstanding, the responsible personnel ...have permitted...the formation and organization of political parties to some extent.... "Some political parties are making efforts to win [by] accusing and blaming others.... The students leaders who were very active in the recent disturbances...can differentiate the party politics from the `national cause' and they bravely declare the difference. This has been the developing trend for `national cause'..." Jan. 19: I say "sadhu" many times in appreciation, by Ko Thawmana. [Thank-you to Government; train ticket sales, banking, telephones, and electricity are now restored, and Rangoon is again beautiful.] Jan. 20: Let us give the best of services, by A civil servant. [Saboteurs have always tried to use civil servants, as in 1988. The 900,000 civil servants should avoid politics and serve faithfully.] Jan. 21: If the gold of "democracy" is weighed, by Po Ye Chan. [False statements issued during disturbances, including forgery attributed to U Aung San U [son of Burma's founder U Aung San--HCMacD.] identifying U Aung Gyi erroneously as Vice Chairman of the Revolutionary Council and a member of the Thirty Comrades. False statements were also attributed to military leaders. As a result of false statements, "some 100 poor people got beheaded or burnt to death."] Jan. 21: Parental love, by Dr. Kyaw Swe. [Autobiographical essay on how students misunderstand parents.] Jan. 23: To fight against "kawlahala", by Maung Ya-tha-bu-ta. [Don't spread kawlahala (rumors).] Jan. 23: Meeting with a correspondent, by Saw Hla Tun (Chaung-U). [Returned student gives transcript of interview with foreign correspondent, in which he [student] disclaimed political interests.] Jan. 24: Read and study, by Kyaw Zeya. [Read books to be wise.] Jan. 24: "The Danger of foreign interference", by U Pe Kin. [Former Ambassador to Pakistan confirms Campbell-Tulloch affair in 1948--British aid to Karen insurgents.] Jan. 26: To keep classrooms free from political turbulence, by Mya Win. ["Only when the situation is conducive to peaceful pursuit of education will it be possible for the schools to re-open.... If political parties get themselves involved in educational affairs, confusion is bound to be created...."] Jan. 26: When schools would re-open, by Khaing Mya Khaing. [Only when parents guide their children, students correct their errors, and teachers behave properly can schools re-open, says retired head-mistress.] Jan. 27: How to revere the "Sasana", by Maung Kyaukkar. [Writer horrified by reports that during disturbances some laity threatened to withhold soon {offerings} from monks if they did not join in demonstrations.] Jan. 27-31: The Shwedagon Nyilagan-January 1946--The Seed of Panglong Agreement, by U Pe Kin. [History, by a participant, of the earliest negotiations on the Burman-Ethnic Minorities question.] Jan. 28: Those who give or take bribes are our enemy, by Maung Thamadi. [Bribes and "tea money" equally bad and should be punished.] Jan. 28: What I have seen and heard, by A reporter. [False rumors about Burma spread by foreigners. "The person who tries to make a false thing into a true one is a mad man. The US State Department is doing what a mad man usually does. It made the members of Sangha and people in Burma alarmed. It has tried to cause damage to the dignity and honour of the Tatmadaw...and sow discord among its members. It is evident that they do not understand the Burmese, the Burmese mentality[,] the social life of the Burmese and their attitude towards others."] Jan. 29: `Thakin Mya Pahngyan:' A new face for an old park, by Myat Tha and Soe Myint. [Regeneration, with military help, of neglected park in western Rangoon.] [photos] Jan. 30-31: The past thought and the present affairs, by Tekkatho Myat Thu. [Past and present false rumors about Burma spread by foreigners.] Jan. 31: Keep official secrets and prevent rumours, by Than Htike Aung. [Quotations from 1923 Official Secrets Act and warning not to violate it.] Students Returned Home Dec. 31: 3 monks and 28 students, who had been flown back to Burma from Thailand, were sent home by special plane to Loikaw, Heho, and Meiktila. They were given official welcomes. 4 Rangoon youths were handed over to their parents, and 6 left for their homes in Thaton and Mogok with their parents Dec. 30. Of the 3 monks and 42 youths who arrived from Thailand Dec. 30, only 4 remain at the Rangoon reception camp, and 2 are being treated for malaria in hospital. [names, etc.] (WPD 1/1) Jan. 1: Two returned students are being treated for malaria at the Defence Services General Hospital; their relatives have been flown in from Loikaw by special plane. 2 others were returned to Mogok and Kengtung. [names] 24 youths and students arrived at border reception camps: 1 at Aung Ban Dec. 23; 1 at Myitkyina Dec. 24; 1 at Shwegu army camp Dec. 25; 2 at Myawaddy Dec. 26 and 1 Dec. 27; 4 at Mudon Dec. 27. 4 arrived at Rangoon on their own Dec. 28. [names] (WPD 1/2) Jan. 2: 3 arrived at Kawthaung Dec. 29-31; 5 at Thayetchaung on Dec. 31; 1 at Mon army station Dec. 31. [names] (WPD 1/3) Jan. 3: A third batch of 37 students and youth returned to Burma by special aircraft from the Tak reception camp in Thailand, accompanied by 38 journalists, and were welcomed at No. 502 Burma Air Force Air Base by State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt and others. They said they were released by the KNU only on Dec. 30, that other students were still being held by the KNU, and that 15 students who joined the KNU were killed at the front. Students continue to arrive at Tak. 2 other students returned by commercial flight from Bangkok. 18 of the students were turned over to their parents, and the other 11 were sent home. 9 are still at the Rangoon Command guest hall. [names] (WPD 1/4,5) Jan. 5: Students and youths continued to return to reception camps. 1 arrived at Haka Dec. 25; 1 at Falam Dec. 28; 1 at Myitkyina and one at Kyondoe Dec. 29; 2 at Myawaddy Dec. 30; 1 at Thantlang Dec. 30; 1 at Taunggyi Dec. 25; 1 at Tiddim Dec. 31; 6 at Kya-in-Seikkyi Dec. 31; 1 at Falam Jan. 2; 1 at Dimawhso Jan. 3. [names] (WPD 1/8) Jan. 7: A fourth batch of 26 students and youths were flown home from the Tak reception camp in Thailand, and warmly welcomed at Rangoon by Rangoon Division LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt. Journalists from Rangoon were flown to Tak to inspect the camp and talk with students there, and returned on the same flight as the students. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 8: Of the third batch of 39 students returned from Tak on Jan. 3, 18 were immediately handed over to their parents, 11 were sent home the next day, 2 others on Jan. 5, 7 on Jan. 6-7. Two who received hospital treatment were released to their parents; the last of the 26 is still being treated at the Military Hospital. [names] Of the 26 students returned Jan. 7, 1 was sent home immediately and 19 on Jan. 8. Six more will be sent home by air Jan. 9. (WPD 1/9) Jan. 10: One student returned at Shwegu Dec. 14; 2 at Myitkyina Dec. 29; 4 at Myawaddy Dec. 30; 3 at Kawkareik Jan. 3; 5 at Tavoy Jan. 3 and 1 on Jan. 5; 4 at Mudon Jan. 3; 1 at Maungdaw Jan. 3; 1 at Kawthaung Jan. 4; 3 at Ye Jan. 5; 1 at Moulmein Jan. 6. [names] (WPD 1/11) Jan. 12: A fifth batch of 76 students (including 3 girls) were returned by two special planes from the Tak reception camp in Thailand, and were welcomed in Rangoon. They told reporters they had come from the KNU U Thuta camp. 114 had left the camp, but there were still about 500 students there, including 11 girls. Those who fled were returned to the camp by smugglers, and 1,000 baht was paid to smugglers who caught them. Foreigners visited the camps, with cameras, 2-3 times a week, and brought food and clothes, but the KNU instructors took all the good clothes. A 21-member committee was named to supervise the students at U Thuta, and the students on it would like to come home but can't. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 13: A sixth batch of 32 students and youths was returned to Burma by special aircraft from the Tak camp in Thailand. The fifth and sixth batches were given a reception by the Rangoon Division LORC Chairman. A delegation of 32 journalists from Thailand flew to Burma to interview the returned students. Several parents had gone to Thailand to find their offspring. One student said 8 students had died of malaria while with the KNU, and that KNU leader Boh Mya let students who wished to return, but his followers did not. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 13: Thai Prime Minister Chartchai Chunhawan indignantly denied Amnesty International charges that Thailand had forceable repatriated 22 students to Burma on Jan. 6. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 14: A seventh batch of 28 students and youth returned from the Tak camp, and were welcomed by officials. (WPD 1/15) Jan. 15: 20 more "absconding students" have returned: 1 at Myitkyina Jan. 3; 1 at Aungban Jan. 5; 1 at Tiddim Jan. 6; 2 at Maungdaw Jan. 8; 2 at Haka Jan. 8; 4 at Kya-in-Seikkyi Jan. 8; 5 at Phathein camp Jan. 9; 1 at Tavoy Jan. 10; 1 at Kyaukpyu Jan. 10; 1 at Manaung Jan. 10. [names] (WPD 1/17) Jan. 17: More students and youth returned: 4 at Haka Jan. 8-10; 2 at Myitkyina Jan. 8; 1 at Ye Jan. 10; 2 at Mudon Jan. 11; 2 at Shwegun Jan. 12; 1 at Taunggyi Jan. 12; 1 at Myawaddy Jan. 12; 1 at Loikaw Jan. 13; 1 at Pasawng Jan. 13; 2 at Sittwe Jan. 13; 3 at Loikaw Jan. 14; 2 at Rih Jan. 15; 6 at Shwegun Jan. 15. [names] (WPD 1/18) Jan. 19: 3 arrived at Hti Sakhar army camp Jan. 7-11; 2 at Maungdaw Jan. 15; 2 at Myawaddy Jan. 15-16; 1 at Kawthaung Jan. 16; 1 at Mergui Jan. 16. [names] (WPD 1/20) Jan. 22: A group of 87 students and youths returned overland through Mon State from the KNU U Thuta camp, after a seven-day trip, and were greeted by Rangoon LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt. Of the 100 that had started out, 13 had to be left behind along the way. They had finally encountered Burmese troops in Kawkareik Twp. [Karen]. They said 6 students had died at the U Thuta camp, and that there were still about 250 students there. About 70 people at U Thuta had joined the KNU insurgents. [photos] (WPD 1/23) Jan. 24: One student was flown home from the Tak reception camp in Thailand. [name] 21 students and youths arrived at the Tamu camp Jan. 16-19, were welcomed, and have been sent to their homes. [names] (WPD 1/25) Jan. 25: 1 arrived at Myawaddy Jan. 17; 2 at Shwegun Jan. 17; 1 at Matupi Jan. 17; 1 at Pekhon Jan. 18; 1 at Mandalay Jan. 18; 1 at Tenasserim Jan. 19; 1 at Thanbyuzayat Jan. 19, 13 on Jan. 20; 2 at Mergui Jan. 19; 1 at Loikaw Jan. 19, 5 on Jan. 20; 2 at Pa-an Jan. 22; 2 at Dawlun Jan. 22; 5 at Moulmein Jan. 23. [names] (WPD 1/26) Jan. 28: 3 students and youths arrived at Loikaw Jan. 20, 1 on Jan. 21, 1 on Jan. 22,; 1 at Manaung Jan. 20; 3 at Ye Jan. 21; 1 at Shwegun Jan. 22; 1 at Maungdaw Jan. 22, 3 on Jan. 26; 4 at Myawaddy Jan. 22; 1 at Thonze Jan. 22; 1 at Tamu Jan. 22; 1 at Mergui Jan. 22; 1 at Rangoon Jan. 24; 2 at Hsadaw Jan. 26. [names] (WPD 1/29) Returned Students Interviewed Feature articles, with interviews and photos, about returned students and their accounts of life with the insurgents: Jan. 2-3: A warm welcome for the students who have arrived back; Tears of joy at the reunion of students and parents, by Myat Tha and Win Htay. Jan. 5: Instigations by unscrupulous elements sent students and youth on the wrong path, by Htwe Kyi. Jan. 6: Bringing back youths to parents reflects true goodwill of Tatmadaw, by Myat Tha & Win Htay. Jan. 7: Sayadaws recount experiences at Karenni insurgents camp, by Myat Tha. Jan. 7: "No summon[s], no interrogation" Maung Tun Yin Oo, by Kyaw Moe. Jan. 7: "I have not been harassed in any way by the authorities since my return", by Tho Han. Jan. 7: Nobody came to us for interrogation: say the students; A student expresses his thanks to the Tatmadaw, by Nyo Myint Maung. Jan. 7: News broadcasts by VOA, BBC that students are being arrested and killed not true, by Hla Tun (Twante). Jan. 8-9: Students retell their experiences of insurgent camps; I will dissuade those who want to abscond from doing so, says a student; As rumours are impossible, we don't believe them, by Aung Nyunt. Jan. 8: There has been no interrogation by any authorities, by Tun Aung. Jan. 9: Students express their thanks towards the two governments, by Thaung Myint. Jan. 9: "I am anxious about students left behind in the jungles"--Maung Kyaw Myint Lwin, by Win Htay. Jan. 11: Students realizing true attitude of Tatmadaw eagerly await to return to motherland, by Thaung Win in Tak. Jan. 15: Students recount their experience of KNU camps; Say insurgents are nothing but smugglers with narrow racial outlooks, by Maung Maung Nyo in Tak. Jan. 16: Fifth batch of students interviewed; The State making constant efforts to bring the students back, by Myat Tha and Aung Nyunt. Jan. 17: Mistaking the mirage for water, by Myat Tha and Aung Nyunt. Jan. 18: Mutual co-operation strengthens friendly relations between Burma and Thailand, by Thaung Myint. Jan. 19-20: Rumours spread by destructive elements pushed students and youths to jungles, by Myint Thein, Myat Tha, and Aung Nyunt. Jan. 21: Destructive elements launching whispering campaigns to prevent students from returning to their parents, by Myint Thein, Myat Tha, and Aung Nyunt. Jan. 23: Returnee-students and youths recount experiences, by Myint Thein, Myat Tha, and Aung Nyunt. Jan. 26-27: Sufferings encountered along the journey to insurgents' area recounted by returned students, by Myint Thein, Myat Tha, and Win Htay. Saboteurs and Weapons Jan. 2: Acting on information from a returned student, the military on Dec. 31 found 2 M-73 rockets, 2 3.5 rocket launcher bombs, 1 M-67 American grenade, 13 slabs of gellatin, 29 detonators, 6 mines, and fuse wire, near Bayinjeegu village, Thaton Twp. [Mon]. (WPD 1/3) Jan. 19: Youths who absconded to the KNU attended demolition training at the Me-la camp from Nov. 5-7. One turned himself in at Pa-an, with TNT and other equipment, Dec. 21. Two others were arrested Dec. 15 in Shwegun on a motor vessel leaving for Pa-an, with TNT and other explosives. Two others were arrested Dec. 9 and Dec. 22. [photos] (WPD 1/20) Press Conferences Jan. 6: The 20th Press Conference of the LORC Information Committee denounced "false news" being broadcast about Burma by the VOA, BBC, and Radio Malaysia. The VOA on Jan. 6 claimed that students returning to Burma may have been detained and died during detention, and that State Department spokesman Mrs. Phillip O'Claire had expressed official US concern over "reliable" reports to this effect. The army had suppressed demonstrations for democracy, and the US did not know how many students were detained or had died in detention. Student who did not return until after the end of January would be regarded as insurgents, the VOA said. The BBC had said that "The US Embassy urges Burmese authorities to make investigations on the cases in which some students died during their detention," and that the British Embassy had urged the Burmese government to investigate these reports. The LORC spokesman said no investigation was needed because no students had been arrested or killed. Since resident newsmen had inquired for themselves and knew this, "the broadcasting of the foreign broadcasting stations is to be assumed that they are deliberately and with ill will interfering and hindering the arrangements to enable the students to return to their parents. Their intention is to leave the students in the hands of the insurgents... [to] get outside help. The BBC on Jan. 4 also broadcast that a Mr. Grek Sharp [sic], "who was said to have close relations with prominent figures of the US" came to the Mone Polow camp as a guest of KNU leader Boh Mya and offered US$500,000 "for the attainment of democracy in Burma." This was [also] quoted by London Observer Correspondent Andrew Drummond on Jan. 1. The spokesmen said returning students had all been returned home, and had not even been interrogated, and that the BBC and VOA were "dishonestly broadcasting false news." Radio Malaysia on Jan. 5 broadcast "incorrect and dishonest allegations" that the All Burma Democratic Students' Front, on the Burma-Thai border, had appealed to the US President for help, claiming that 9,000 students were taking refuge with the insurgents, and would be arrested and tortured if they went home. The source cited, Tun Aung Kyaw, is not a student leader but a hired video cameraman and a KNU lackey and puppet. "Actually," the spokesman said, "the US government did not say anything about it. If it does, it would amount to interfering in our affairs and we have no reason at all to accept it." As of Dec. 30, 1,790 students had returned; another 139 arrived between Dec. 31-Jan. 5, for a total of 1,929. Another airplane will go to Tak tomorrow to bring back more students, and journalists will be able to accompany them. Several local journalists accused foreign news agencies of rewriting and distorting "correct news received from the press conference," they had submitted. (WPD 1/7) Jan. 14: At a special Press Conference between returned students and newsmen flown over from Thailand, students told how they had been misled so as to distrust the Army, etc., and recited anecdotes of life with the KNU. Foreign correspondents then asked questions. Charles de Nerciat (AFP) asked whether all the 17 students who had gone to collect their comrades were back in Rangoon; a student said yes. Su Tin (UPI) asked what had happened to 22 students reportedly forced to return Jan. 6. She was told they were home; there was a mixup as to the identity of one said to be at the Press Conference, who turned out to be someone else. David Dyar (VOA SE Asia Correspondent) [photo] asked whether an election date had been set, and whether holding elections would not resolve the student question. U Ohn Kyaw said the date had not been set, as this would require cooperation from the Parties, but a law had been drafted. In response to other questions, U Ohn Kyaw said the curfew could not yet be lifted; that reporters would soon be allowed into Burma individually; and that while Rangoon was tranquil this was not yet the case in the whole country. He denied a suggestion that political parties could not campaign outside Rangoon; and repudiated Amnesty International charges of forced student repatriation. He declined comment on student meetings with Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 1/15,16) Jan. 20: At a special Press Conference for the visiting journalists from the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand, LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt said setting elections would require joint efforts by Government, the political parties, and the people, and that peace and tranquillity prevail. "Before the elections, we will gradually permit freedom of organization to the political parties and will allow them to publish news or information...there are arrangements to gradually give [them] the freedom to announce their news through the TV and to carry out organization work through the newspapers." The [LORC] Government is going to hold the elections, not stand for the elections. "Law and order has not been properly restored in the whole country." The curfew order has been relaxed, but will be lifted depending on the law and order situation. The parties must see to it that there are no conflicts between them. The Government is till trying to get all the students home from the border area. All students will be enabled to pursue their studies when schools reopen. "There has been no arrest, no torture, no interrogation and no killing of those who have returned. We regard them as our kith and kin. We will never take action against the children." There have been false allegations in the foreign media. There will be no extension of the Jan. 31 deadline for student return; "Nevertheless, children are always welcomed. They can come back at any time." (WPD 1/21) Jan. 26: Eight students who returned from India and Bangladesh met with local and foreign journalists at a special Press Conference. India interned students and treated them as refugees. Of about 160 students who fled to India, 21 have returned. Of three girls, one has returned and one married an Indian Army Officer, so one remains. After they returned to Burma there was no interrogation, torture, or persecution. Students who went to Bangladesh were received and given training by NUFA. The number grew to about 60, of whom 15 joined the Kalasoe insurgents and 5 the BCP. The students formed the All Arakan Students Democratic Revolutionary Front (AASDRF) with Ko Aung Thein Shwe as Chairman. They were hungry and given little food. About 20 managed to return to Burma. NUFA has 5 groups, each with 5-9 members, and is neither admitted or denied by Bangladesh. [photo] (WPD 1/27) Jan. 27: At the 24th LORC Press Conference, currency and students were discussed. Myanma Foreign Trade Bank Director U Maung Maung Than said that despite rumors of currency demonetization, the State LORC "has no such arrangements to do it during the time it is taking the responsibilities." There must also be thorough study before any changes are made in exchange rates; otherwise, repeated changes would have to be made. Arrangements have been made for the opening of foreign exchange accounts according to the Ministry of Planning and Finance directive of Jan. 6. [see below under Foreign Exchange Accounts] Managing Director of the Myanma Economic Bank, Daw Yi Yi, encouraged people to deposit their money. Current accounts can be drawn against without restriction. The limitation of one weekly withdrawal of up to K 10,000 from savings accounts is temporary. There is no restriction on withdrawals from savings certificates. LORC Information Committee spokesman Col. Aung Thein said that 2,288 students had returned as of Jan. 26, and another 25 this morning, for a total of 2,313. The deadline of Jan. 31 will not be extended, but the 27 reception camps will remain open, and those returnees "who did not commit crimes" will be received as usual. As to reopening schools, "it rests on the students staying in the jungle." As announced Jan. 25, plans are ready to reopen schools "as so far as security, peace and tranquillity and situations proved." The formation of a non-political students' union will be considered only when schools are reopened. Some students may already be "carrying out movement for the formation of a students' union." So long as they do not violate State LORC Notification No. 2/88, "action will not be taken against anybody for the movement." In an effort to reduce prices, the government sent 83,062 bags of rice in 42 motor schooners from Rangoon to Tenasserim between Oct. 22 - Jan. 9. However, only 42,623 bags in 26 schooners arrived and the remaining 40,439 bags in 16 schooners are missing and perhaps "smuggled out." Smugglers will be arrested and their schooners and goods seized. The quota for State paddy purchases is 119,464,000 baskets, of which 60,400,000 baskets had been purchased as of Jan. 26. At yesterday's press conference, returned student Maung Moe Oo Tun said that three of his friends had been arrested beginning Oct. 3, 1988 and he wanted to know their situations [this not reported in WPD account]. They were arrested for stealing and destroying documents of "previous State People's Council." Two are out on bail. The third was also charged with taking a leadership role "in breaking the Sittwe jail" and is in detention. [names] "...co-ordinations and negotiations are being made to be lenient as they are students." A Jan. 25 Bangkok Post story alleges that three students [named] died in Insein Jail recently and that their bodies were not returned to their parents. "The news is absolutely untrue and there are no harsh treatment in the jail. They are still in the jail with appropriate accommodation and they are healthy." They were arrested because they had demolition equipment in Toungoo. Another news item from one Aung Lwin, chairman of the All Burma Students Democratic Front, claimed that seven students [named] were missing "as they were arrested by military intelligence." The Burmese Ambassador in Bangkok has already denied this: "none of them is arrested or dead." "The lists of those who have been arrested for their crimes have been announced through the newspapers, radio and television....The cases of those who are arrested are also being tried without delay and those who should be released are being done so on the basis of assurances given by their parents." (WPD 1/28) Rangoon Commander Speaks Jan. 11: Rangoon Division LORC Chairman and Rangoon Command Commander Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt told 400 township and ward LORC members that they should "avoid old attitudes", and should "check the strangers coming to the wards." He warned that "destructive elements are now spreading rumours to defame the activities of the State," and said that nobody was interrogating or inspecting returned students, or calling back or interrogating them after they are returned to their parents. Efforts are being made to reduce commodity prices in Rangoon. (WPD 1/12) "Let's Dissipate Doubts" Jan. 12: "Since the assumption of State responsibilities, the State Law and Order Restoration Council has been giving positive assurance that it will hold free and fair general elections under the multi-party democratic system as soon as three preliminary tasks havebeen accomplished.... As [its] sincerity...becomes more and more evident with the return of increasing number of misguided students, michievous attempts have been made to hinder the progress. This has come from both inside and outside the country. Such attempts take the form of fabricated news or rumours.... "...the Information Committee holds press conferences at which local and foreign journalists have an opportunity to raise questions.... What is more, these newsmen have been able to visit the students who had returned from Thailand. They have been given this opportunity in response to foreign broadcasts which attempted to discredit the sincere efforts of the government. Strangely enough, some correspondents working for foreign news agencies claimed that their original reports had been re-written and slanted by the news organizations concerned. "Both the young and the old are now fully aware that rumours can create problems. The worst of these is none other than outside interference.... What matters most today is to dissipate doubts about the sincerity of the Tatmadaw." (WPD editorial 1/12) Saw Maung Meets Journalists Jan. 17: LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung met with Mr. Dominique Faulder of the Bureau Bangkok and Mr. David Ring of Asiaweek Magazine. [photos] (WPD 1/18) // Jan. 18: Asiaweek senior reporter Mr. Assis Shameen called on the Elections Commission. [photo] (WPD 1/19) // Jan 19: All three called on Minister Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. [photo] (WPD 1/20) Foreign Journalists Tour Jan. 18: 46 local and foreign journalists, headed by Miss Yuli Ismartono, Chairman of the Foreign Correspondents' Club of Thailand (FCCT), arrived in Rangoon at the invitation of the Burmese Government. They then flew to Loikaw to interview returned students. (WPD 1/19) Jan. 20: They visited Loikaw, Taunggyi, Meiktila, and Pagan. On their return to Rangoon they were given a Press Conference [see above]. (WPD 1/21) Jan. 22: The foreign journalists include: Ms. Helen Whit, Asian Wall Street Journal; David Butler, London Daily Telegraph; Charles De Nerciat, AFP; Nick Williams Jr., Los Angeles Times; Paul Wedel, Jr., UPI; David Dyar, VOA; Erlinger Stevenjay [Steven J. Erlinger], New York Times; Ms. Anne Marie Kooistra, Radio Netherlands Int'l.; Anthony Hill, Australian Broadcasting Corp.; Denis Gray, AP; Bertil Lintner, Far Eastern Economic Review; David Brunnstrom, Reuters; Antonius Gerrits, Deutsche Press (Agentur-DPA); Stephen Reverawd, NBC; Philippe Decaux, Television Francaise; Norman Bottorf, ABC News; Prasi Saengrungrueng, Worldwide TV; David McKaige, Visnews; Nicholas Cunningham-Bruce, The Guardian; Herbert Kelly, London Times; Peter Nettleship, BBC; plus representatives [also named] of Japanese, Korean, Indonesian, and Thai media. Rangoon representatives of foreign media were: U Sein Win, AP; U Chit Tun, UPI; U Hla Kyi, Reuters; U Khin Maung Thwin, AFP; U Hla Htwe, Antara; Mr. Zouev, TASS; Zhang Yufei, Xinhua; U Maung Maung, BBC; U Kyaw Nyein, VOA; U Ne Win, Asahi Shimbun; U Linbin Hteik Tin Latt, Newsweek. On Jan. 19, the correspondents met with returnee-students in Taunggyi, who denied as "totally false" charges by Amnesty International and foreign media that returned students had been mistreated [text of Q & A's]. [photos] (WPD 1/23) Jan. 23: On Jan. 19, the correspondents [also] met with returnee-students in Meiktila, who spoke freely and without instructions [text of Q & A's]. [photos] (WPD 1/24) Warning on Party Schools Jan. 25: Government of Burma Notification No. 1/89 of Jan. 25 [text]: 1. The Government, due to conditions which prevailed in the country, temporarily closed universities, colleges, institutes, high schools, middle schools, primary schools and other vocational training classes with the intention of ensuring security and peace for the public. 2. It has been found that some political parties exploiting the closure of schools and with total disregard for the security and peace of the people, have been engaged in activities to obtain political profits for themselves, to create conflict between the students and the Government and to sow misunderstanding. Such acts can cause undesirable disturbances and can effect public security and peace. Such activities are being carried out under cover of what has been touted as "Hpye-Hset" education. 3. Parents and the people are requested, not to encourage the anti-government activities of some political parties so as to avoid such undesirable problems, and to keep their children under their control. 4. The Government has programmes and arrangements for re-opening the schools as so far as security, peace and opportune conditions prevail. 5. Therefore, it is hereby announced that the Government, looking forward to ensuring security and peace for the public, will take effective actions against persons (or) organizations which are engaging in activities opposed to the temporary closure of schools and pursuit of education. By Order Sd Maung Ko, Secretary, Government of the Union of Burma (WPD 1/26) Detainees Released Jan. 24: Theatrical artiste Moe Win (a) Win Yi, 21, arrested Oct. 8 for slandering the Tatmadaw, was released and sent back to his parents Nov. 17. Motion picture director U Tin Soe (a) U Tin Maung Soe, 48, owner of Sabai Oo Sarpay Taik, arrested Oct. 8 on similar charges, was released and sent back to his family Jan. 19. Four students arrested (WPD 11/24/88) for engaging in anti-Government activities under the All Burma Students' Democracy Movement (Ahlone) were released and sent back to their parents Dec. 12. [names] The news of such releases will continue. (WPD 1/26) Jan. 25: Eleven persons arrested for anti-government activities Oct. 23 (WPD 11/14/88), who had received smallarms training under the Students Democracy Movement (Sanchaung), have asked forgiveness and were released to their parents Dec. 12. [names]. (WPD 1/27) Jan. 26: Three persons arrested for being members of the students revolutionary movement on Nov. 10 (WPD 11/15/88) have asked forgiveness and were released to their parents on Dec. 15. [names] (WPD 1/27) Jan. 27: Two persons arrested Nov. 8 for "having under gone military training and writing and publishing threatening letters urging the formation of an interim government" were released on Jan. 5 and sent back to their parents. [names] (WPD 1/28) 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 were covered in the November (registration and officers) and December (Aims and Programmes) issues, except as follows: (126) All Burma Peasant Organization (Burma), formerly Peasant Party (Burma). A&P:1,2,3,6,7,b. (WPD 1/13) (127) Trades Union Congress (Burma) (TUCB), formerly Labour Party (Burma). A&P:I,1,5,6. (WPD 1/12) Parties Nos. 149 & 151 (registration, officers, and Aims and Programmes) were covered in the December issue. Parties Nos. 150 & 152-174 (registration and officers) were covered in the December issue. --+-- Parties Nos. 150 - 174 (Aims and Programmes): (150) People's Front for Democracy Construction. A&P:I,III,4,b, iv,vii. (WPD 1/1) (152) Shan State Kachin Democratic Party. A&P:I,e. (WPD 1/1) (153) Kachin National Congress (KNC). A&P:I,II,1,2,5,b,d,e,vi. (WPD 1/1) (154) Patriotic Democracy Party (PDP). A&P:II,III,1,2,5,8,b,d,ii, iv. (WPD 1/2) (155) Progressive New Burma Party (PNBP). A&P:I,III,VI,b,ii,vi. (WPD 2/2) (156) Union's Genuine Democracy Party (Burma). New address: 64 (gd. fl.) 10th St., Lanmadaw T. [Rgn]. A&P:I,II,III,1,8,ii,iv. (WPD 1/3) (157) Coalition League for Democratic Party Unity. A&P:I,II,III,2, 5,b,d. (WPD 1/3) (158) Union DANU League for Democracy. A&P:I,II,III,VII,2,5,b,c,e, ii,vi. (WPD 1/5) (159) Pa-O National Development Organization. A&P:III,2,e. (WPD 1/ 6) (160) League for Democracy Alliance. A&P:I,II,III,2,4,5,8,b,i, ii,iv. (WPD 1/5) (161) National Ethnic Reformation Party (Headquarters). A&P:I,II,1,5, b,d,e,i. (WPD 1/5) (162) People's Pioneer Party (PPP). A&P:I,II,IV,1,b,ii. (WPD 1/ 6) (163) Kamans National League for Democracy. A&P: I,II,3,e. (WPD 1/6) (164) Kuki Chin National Unity Party (KCLNUP). A&P:I,II,III,e. (WPD 1/8) (165) Democratic Organization for Kayan National Unity (DOKNU). A&P: I,II,III,5,6,8,b,e. (WPD 1/10) (166) Mara People's Party (MPP). A&P:I,VII,1,5,b,e. (WPD 1/10) (167) Union Nationals Democracy Party (UNDP). A&P:I,VII,e. (WPD 1/ 10) (168) Democratic People and Retired Personnel Organization (DPRPO). A&P:I,III,1,3,4,6,i,ii. (WPD 1/11) (169) Burma People's Welfare Party (Sinbyugyun). A&P:I,1,5,7,a,b, ii. (WPD 1/11) (170) Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization (MKNSO). A&P:I, III,1,e. (WPD 1/12) (171) People's Potential Democratic Youth League. A&P:I,II,VI,VII, 1,8,b,c,vii. (WPD 1/13) (172) Real, Open, Just-Democratic Party (Union of Burma). A&P:I,II,1, 5,7,b,ii,v. (WPD 1/13) (173) Democracy New Building Social Milieu Party (Bassein-Irrawaddy Division).A&P:I,VI,4,b,iv,vii. (WPD 1/16) (174) New Strength Democratic Allied Party. A&P:III,V,VI,1,2,4,6,b, c,e,ii,iv. (WPD 1/16) --+-- Parties Nos. 175-184 (Registration, officers, and Aims and Programmes): (175) Jan. 2. Southern Chin Democracy Party (SCDP). 58 Lanthit Rd., Nant-thagon Ward, Insein T. [Rgn]. Ch Kyin (BA); VCh Sayamagyi Daw Ohn Myaing (BA-dip.ed.); GS Salai Aung Tun (BA); JSec Salai Aung Nyo (AGTI, BE-mech); CEC Mai San San Myint (BA), Mai Khin Than (Paukkaung), Salai Kyaw Zin, Sein, Thein Zaw (BA).A&P:I,II,VI,1,b,e,ii. (WPD 1/3,16) (176) Jan. 2. Youth and Students Democracy Forces. 145 Lewis St., Kyauktada T. [Rgn]. [Coalition of 8 Youth Parties.] Ch Hla Htwe (Patriotic League for Peace) [PLP-Party No. 87], CEC Kyaw Swa Aung (All Burma National Youths League) [ABNYL-No. 23], S' Toe Myint Hsaing (Youth Union for Burma's Progress) [YUBP-No. 26], Myo Aung (People's Student Democratic Party) [PSDP-No. 44], Aung Zaw Min (Association of Burmese Patriotic Youth) [ABPY-No. 49], Aung Myat Tun (Youth and Student Union Association) [YSUA-No. 54], Thet Win Tin (Northern Shan State Youth Unity and Development Organization) [NSSYUDO-No. 73], Aung Naing (Organization of Students and Youth for National Politics) [OSYNP-No. 97], Soe Hlaing Oo (PLP-87), Zaw Ko (ABNYL-23), Aung Hlaing Oo (YUBP-26), Zaw Win (PSDP-44), Aung Kyaw Myint (ABPY-49), Sharlet Cho (YSUA-54), Thein Swe Myint (NSSYUDO-73), Zaw Lin Oo (OSYNP-97), Daw Cho Cho Than (PLP-87), Thein Htay (ABNYL-23), Htin Aung Hlaing (YUBP-26), Moe Zin (PSDP-44), Zaw Ye Win (ABPY-49), Aung Win (YSUA-54), Aung Naing Oo (NSSYUDO-73), Maung Maung Lwin (OSYNP-97). A&P:I,II,8,a. (WPD 1/3, 15) (177) Jan. 3. Amyothar Party (AP). 78 155th St., Tamwe T. [Rgn]. Ch Tun Kyaw Oo (rtd. Major-Air (adv., BSc, BA, BL); VCh Kyaw Tin, Zaw Win (rtd middle sch. head, BSc-Q-chem); GS Hla Kyaw (rtd. Air Force); JGS Tin Aung (a) Elias; Sec Daw Aye Tint (2nd yr. Maths-Hons, Rgn Univ), Tin Aung (a) D Mahmed; CEC Pe Yin, Kyaw Soe (rtd. Air Force), Khin Maung Win (a) Noor Mahmed, Zaw Kariya (BSc, MSc-Q-Maths), Aman Ulla. A&P:I,II,VII,6, b,iv. (WPD 1/6,14) (178) Jan. 6. Patriotic People's Parliamentary Party. Room No. 9, Building No. 62(A), Po Sein Rd., Tamwe T. [Rgn]. Ch Ye Htut Hla; VCh Daw Myint Myint; Sec Than Oo; CEC Than Myint, Hlaing, Aung San, Aung Than. A&P:I,II,VII,6,iv,v,vii. (WPD 1/8,17) (179) Jan. 6. National League for Democracy Justice (NLDJ). Room No. 4 (1st fl.), 19 J St., Ward 4, Pazundaung T. [Rng]. Ch Saya Dun (Zalun); VCh Saya Zaw Hmaing (a) Chit Than (Moumein), Tun Yi (a) Ko Tun; GS Hla Maung; Sec Kyaw Moe (Henzada), Nuunt Han (AGTI); CEC Ayue Maung (Zalun), Tun Aung, Hla Myint (Moulmein), Daw Khin Cho, Daw Nyunt Nyunt Sein, Tin Hla, Hla Myint (1), Hla Myint (2). A&P:I,II,1,5,b,ii. (WPD 1/8,17) (180) Jan. 6. All Burma Liberated Women's Organization. 84 Hume Rd., Sanchaung T. [Rgn]. Patron Wunna Kyaw Htin Daw Sein Pu (f. memb. House of Rep., f. Ch Ba-la-ma-sa); Ch Daw Nay Kyi Ba Swe (LL.B, adv.); GS Daw San San Khine (Sittwe) (adv.); CEC Daw Khin Yi (Pegu) (f. Sec. Pegu Dist. Ba-la-ma-sa), Daw Thaung Thaung (f. org. Ba-la-ma-sa), Daw Tin Tin Aye (f. org. Ba-la-ma-sa), Daw Than Myint (f. org. Ba-la-ma-sa), Daw Khin Mar Myint (Mandalay) (LL.B, adv.), Daw Aye Aye Nwe (LL.B, HGP), Daw Khin Cho Cho, Daw Thida Nwe (BSc-zool), Daw Cho Cho (BSc-zool), Daw Moe Moe Oo, Da Cho Mar Soe (3rd yr. zool), Daw Thanda Oo, Daw Nila (BA-hist), Daw Tin Tin Sein (BA-Burm), Daw Nan Thanda Aung. A&P:I,II,1,5,women. (WPD 1/8,19) (181) Jan. 9. (Main) AFPFL Youth Hqs. 95(A) Shwegondaing Rd., Bahan T. [Rgn]. Patron Tun Zan (f. Ch AFPFL Youth Hqs.); Ch Daw Cho Cho Kyaw Nyein; VCh Khin Maung (f. memb. AFPFL Youth, Mdy Dist.), Aung Myint Soe; GS Dr. Thu Ya; JGS Soe Win Sein; JSec Aung Kyaw Myint; CEC Phone Hlaing, Myat San, Wunna Maung (Mandalay Myothit), Thein Myint (Sagaing), Aung Khaing (Kayan), Maung Maung Myint, Chit Nyi Nyi (Shwe Phone Lu), Myint Kywe (Zarni Kyaw), Myo Thaw (Sit Min Naing), Min Thu Aung (Po San). A&P:I,III, 8,. (WPD 1/12,18) (182) Jan. 10. Asho-Chin National Development League (ANDL). 1342 Hyde Park Rd., Taungthugon Ward, Insein T. [Rgn]. Patrons Samo Hla Oo (Thayet) (BA, BES) (rtd. headmaster, f. Ch Asho Khunsu, 1947), Sein (Prome) (Pa-Ma-Ta-Nya 1950) (f. Ch Myanma Naing-ngan Lon Hsaing-ya Lumyozu), Ba Kywe (Toungoo) (rtd. superintend., timber extraction); Ch Maung Maung Gyi (HNC-mech, Lincoln, UK) (rtd. marine engin); VCh Samo Aung Kyi (Aunglan) (BA-dip, ED) (rtd. headmast.); GS Salai Sein Maung (Thayet); JGS Salai Aung Thein (Sandoway) (rtd. Capt.), Salai Aung Kyaw Moe (Taungdwingyi) (BSc); CEC Salai Tin Aung (So. Okkalapa), Samo Hla Din (Pyinmana) (rtd. schoolmast.), Daw Samo Nu Aye Khin (Thaketa) (rtd. matron), Daw Mai Marla Tun Than (Yezin) (BSc-phys, HGP). A&P:I,II,2,e, iv,v. (WPD 1/11,12,18) (183) Jan. 24. The Might of New Generation Youth Front (Burma). 6 Aung Chan Tha St., Ko Min Ko Chin Ward, Bahan T. [Rgn]. Ch Thein Toe (Thein Nwe) (Pazundaung); VCh Min Htin; GS Thein Kyaw (Yan Naing Soe) (Irrawaddy Div.); Sec. Soe Win (a) Zeya (BA, HGP), Thein Han (MA), Moe Aung Kyaw (3rd yr. Burm) (Sagaing Div.); CEC Aung Thein Htut (Shan St.), Win Myint (BA) (Pegu Div.), Tun Win Aung (Mon St.), Aye Ko Maung (artist), Dr. Aung Myint, Kyaw Lwin (BSc-zool), Daw Khin Than Mu (BA, BEd) (Insein), Ni Hsan (No. Okkalapa), Ni Thein Htut (Maymyo), Thein Myo Tun (Mayangon), Naing Thein Htut (Bahan), Yee (Mandalay Div.), Than Shwe (BA) (Kawthaung). A&P: I,VI,3,4,8,b,d,i,ii,vii. (WPD 1/25,26) (184) Jan. 27. Non-Aligned People's Democracy Party. 37 Thaya Shwepyi St., Ward 16, Yankin T. [Rgn]. Ch Than Win (Kamayut); VCh Lu Din (Bahan), Sai Maung Maung Than (Kengtung); GS Kyi Aung (Lemyethna); JGS Ohn Kyaw (BSc-maths), Sec Hla Shwe (Hlaing), Soe Than (Bahan); CEC Aung Kyi (Sagaing), Soe Tint (Tavoy), Ye Tun (LL.B), Htin Lin Kyaw (Kamayut), Maung Maung Naing (BSc-chem), Tin Htut (Toungoo, Kwinpaing Quarter), Than Htay (a) Raju (Yankin), San Hlaing (Henzada). A&P:I,II,1. (WPD 1/29, 31) Party New Year Greetings Jan. 4: The Federal Republic Democratic Party [No. 93], sent a message of congratulations to the State LORC, signed by General Secretary Myint Lwin Thein [sic], for the 41st Independence Day. (WPD 1/4) Draft Election Law Jan. 12: State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung and LORC members Lt-Gen. Than Shwe, Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Maj-Gen. Tin Tun, Brig-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw, Maj-Gen. Phone Myint, Maj-Gen. Sein Aung, and Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt and Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Tin Oo, met for three hours with Chairman U Ba Htay and the members of the Multi-Party Democracy General Elections Commission to discuss the Pyithu Hluttaw Elections Law (Draft), at the Dagon Yeiktha of the Ministry of Defence. [photos] (WPD 1/13) Registration Deadline Set Jan. 18: Multi-Party Democracy General Elections Commission Announcement No. 187 of Jan. 18, noting that 182 political parties have registered, and that there has been sufficient time for parties from border regions to register, sets a deadline of February 28, 1989 for the registration of parties under Section 6 of the Political Parties Registration Rule. (WPD 1/19) Party Registration Changes Elections Commission Press Release No. 37/78 of Jan. 19, notes that there have been "resignations, substitutions and additions of patrons and executive committee members" of some Parties, and that such changes will be announced from time to time. [Party numbers provided by compiler, and honorific "U"s omitted.]: (WPD 1/20) (1) Democracy Party. CEC member Win Naing has resigned. (WPD 1/20) (4) People Youth Federation (Burma). CEC member Than Win has died, and been replaced by Myint Aung. CEC member Maung Maung Aung has resigned. (WPD 1/20) (3) People's Democracy Party. New CEC members are: Hla Myint (Henzada), Dr. Ba Tin, Dr. Zaw Win Lwin. (WPD 1/21) (6) Unity and Development Party. CEC member Kyaw Win (Kungyangon) has resigned. (WPD 1/21) (7) Anti-Fascist People's Freedom League. Ch Bo Kyar Nyunt resigned Nov. 1, and was removed effective Nov. 4; he was replaced by f. GS Nyunt Thein, who was replaced by f. CEC member Maung Maung Gyi. CEC member Aye has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (10) Graduates and Old Students Democratic Association. CEC members Tin Moe Hsan, Aung Pe Than, and Myint Thein have resigned. (WPD 1/21) (12) League for Democracy and Peace (previously listed as National Peace and Democracy Party?) U Nu has been appointed as Patron. (WPD 1/24) (13) Union Karen League. Patron Saw Tun Sein has resigned. (WPD 1/25) (15) Democracy Development Organization. Patron Soe Tin and VCh Ohn Khin have resigned. Ch Pe Khin has resigned and been replaced by f. Tr. Than Tin. GS Haji Thein has resigned and been replaced by f. JGS Kyi Sein (Ye Khaung Maung Maung). CEC members Tint Sun, Ko Ko, and Soe Myint have resigned and been replaced by Thiri Pyanchi Zaw Win Zaw (Mawgun Gr. 1) (rtd. For. Serv. and UN volunteer), Dr. Ne Win (MB, BS, DPM, FRC-psych) (rtd. MS of the Psychiatric Hosptial), and Soe Hlaing (rtd. Lt-Col., Naing-Ngant-Gon-Yi Cl. I). (WPD 1/25) (22) The League for Human Rights and Peace. Ch Hla Myint has resigned, and been replaced by Patron Saya Dagon. (WPD 1/24) (30) Zomi National Congress. Ch Pum Za Kap and CEC member Kham Min Thang have resigned. (WPD 1/24) (32) People's Progressive and Freedom Democracy Front. Patron Soe Myint (Bassein Maung Sein Thu) and CEC members Daw Thida Khin Latt, Yebaw Kyaw Win Tun, Win Myint, Tun Aung, Sein Myint, Kyaw Zan Hla, Daw Than Yi, and Yebaw Kyaw Swa Win Maung resigned, and were partially replaced by CEC members Daw Thiri Ma Ma Lwin and Maung Myaytha (U Kyi Myint). (WPD 1/26) (37) United National Congress. CEC member Daw Ma Ma Gyi has resigned. (WPD 1/24) (39) Democracy and Human Rights Organization (DHO). JGS Daw Myint Myint Saw has resigned. (WPD 1/24) (40) The Peace and Economic Development Party of Union of Burma. Dr. Hla Oo (Maung Kyi Mon) has been elected VCh (3); Aung Gyi (So. Okkalapa) has been elected CEC member. (WPD 1/25) (42) Patriotic Old Comrades League. Lun Tun was appointed CEC member. (WPD 1/26) (44) People's Student Democratic Party. CEC member Moe Thet Myint (Hla Zin) has resigned. (WPD 1/26) (45) Shan Nationalities League for Democracy. Patron Sao Yutmai and VCh Sai Myat Aung has resigned. (WPD 1/26) (46) Progressive Democratic Youth League (Burma). JSec Chit Ko Ko has resigned. (WPD 1/28) (64) Arakan People's United Organization. JGS Hla Aung and CEC member Kyaw Khaing have resigned. Patron Wai Kyan Aung has been appointed. (WPD 1/28) (65) Shan National Development Democratic Party (Union of Burma). JSec Dr. Cho Oo Maung and CEC member Thein Hla (a) Thein Lay have resigned. CEC members Maung Maung Naing, Thaung Shwe, Sein Lay Maung, and Ohn Kyaing have been appointed. (WPD 1/28) (67) Party for Unity and Peace. JGS Htay Win (Htet Lu) has been removed from office. (WPD 1/29) (72) Union for the Improvement of Burmese Women (Central Headquarters). CEC members Daw Myint Aye, Daw Thi Thi Mar Auing, Daw Tin Tin Win, and Daw Aye Myint Than have resigned. (WPD 1/28) (84) Karen Stte National Organization. CEC members Saw Thein Shwe, Than Aung, and Nai Hla Myaing have resigned. (WPD 1/29) (88) National Democratic Party for Human Rights. CEC member Nay Win (Maungdaw) has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (91) Arakanese Peace & Human Rights Party. CEC member Kyaw Han (a) Than Daing has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (99) Burma Reporters' Association. CEC member Kyaw Mya has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (102) United Democratic Youth League. CEC member Nay Win Naing (Naing Win Sein) has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (105) New Ideology Improvement Party For Social System. CEC member Daw Kyu Kyu Thinn (writer Kyu Kyu Thinn) has resigned. (WPD 1/29) (108) Rule of People's Democracy League. Ch Tin Yi has resigned, and been replaced by f. SecGen Zaw Myo Win., who has been replaced by f. GS (1) Than Tun Aung (Myoma), who has been replaced by f. GS (2) Win Thein, who has been replaced by f. CEC member Daw Myint Myint Than. (WPD 1/31) (122) Union of Burma Unity Democracy League (HQ) (BUDL). Sumpara Sad (BSc-phys) and Chin Tha Rao have been appointed CEC members. (WPD 1/31) (128) League for Peace of all Shan State Youth & Students. CEC member Sai Hla Win has resigned. (WPD 1/31) (133) Ta-Ang (Palaung) National League for Democracy. Patron Khun Aik has resigned. (WPD 1/31) (140) All Burma Youth League (Hqrs) (ABYL). CEC member Than Kyaw has resigned. (WPD 1/29) [Query? This change was listed out of order, and Than Kyaw is not recorded as a CEC member of Party No. 140; but I cannot find him in Parties Nos. 85-87, which the order of printing would suggest.--HCMacD] Warning on Party Publicity Jan. 23: Elections Commission Notification of Jan. 23 [text]: 1. It is learnt that some political parties, which have already registered with this Commission, in presenting their aims and programmes to the people and organizing them, are publishing hand-outs and bills, have their activities documented with videos and are distributing lending and screening these video tapes. 2. It is essential that the publishing of hand-outs and bills should be in conformity with the provisions of the 1962 Printers and Publishers Registration Law, and it is necessary that video shootings, video-copy tapes distributing, lending and screening should be in conformity with the provisions of the Television and Video Law. 3. As such, it is notified that the publishing of hand-outs and bills, and distributing, lending and screening of documented video tapes need to be done in conformity with the respective laws. (WPD 1/24) DIPLOMATIC US Praises Late Daw Khin Kyi Dec. 27: Statement by Department of State Spokesman [text]: On Tuesday, December 27, Daw Khin Kyi, the widow of the martyred hero of Burmese independence leader Aung San, passed away. Daw Khin Kyi was venerated by the Burmese people for her dedicated support of her husband's efforts to achieve independence for the people of Burma. She was respected and admired for her pioneering social welfare efforts on behalf of Burma's sick and needy and for her service as Burma's Ambassador to India and Nepal. The United States extends its deepest sympathies to Daw Khin Kyi's family and to the nation and people of Burma. (WPD 1/8) Ambassador to Czechoslovakia Jan. 1: The State LORC Chairman named U Than Tun as Burmese Ambassador to Czechoslovakia. (WPD 1/1) Ambassador to Vietnam Jan. 2. U Aye Kyaw presented credentials as Burmese Ambassador to Vietnam on Dec. 31 in Hanoi. (WPD 1/3) Officials Meet with Diplomats Jan. 3: Nigerian Ambassador Musa M-Bellow called on Minister for Co-operatives, for Livestock and Fisheries, and for Agriculture and Forests Maj-Gen. Chit Swe to discuss economic and technological cooperation. [photo] (WPD 1/4) Jan. 5: Egyptian Ambassador Dr. Adel Abass El Adawy called on Minister for Home and Religious Affairs Gen. Phone Myint, on Minister for Transport and Communications Maj-Gen. Tin Tun, and on Minister for Agriculture and Forests Maj-Gen. Chit Swe. Nigerian Ambassador Musa M-Bello called on Minister for Energy Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. [photos] (WPD 1/6) Jan. 6: Egyptian Ambassador Dr. Adel Abass El Adawy called on Minister for Industry 1 and 2 Maj-Gen. Sein Aung. UNICEF Resident Representative Mr. Antonio A. Hidalgo called on Minister for Education, for Social Welfare and for Labour Brig-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. [photos] (WPD 1/7) Jan. 10: Minister for Trade Col. Abel received Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin Bin Abdullah. [photo] (WPD 1/11) Jan. 11: The Malaysian Ambassador was received by Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Minister for Planning and Finance, for Energy, and for Mines. [photo] (WPD 1/12) Jan. 12: Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng called on Elections Commission Chairman U Ba Htay, along with members U Saw Kya Doe, U San Maung, Saya Chai, U Kyaw Nyunt, and Secretary U Aye Maung. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 13: Japanese Minister-Counsellor Kazuo Matsumoto called on Elections Commission Secretary U Aye Maung. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 16: Australian Charge d'Affaires a.i. Philip Coggan visited the Elections Commission. (WPD 1/17) Jan. 19: Korean Ambassador Byong-Hyon Kwon called on the Elections Commission Chairman. [photo] (WPD 1/20) Jan. 24: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin bin Abdallah met with the Elections Commission Chairman. German Democratic Republic Charge d'Affaires a.i. Hans Laabs called on State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Korean Ambassador Byong Hyon Kwon called on Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Minister for Planning and Finance, for Energy, and for Mines at the Ministry of Mines; energy and mining officials were present. [photos] (WPD 1/25) Jan. 25: The Malaysian Ambassador met with Maj-Gen. Chit Swe, Minister for Co-operatives, for Livestock and Fisheries, and for Agriculture and Forests. [photo] (WPD 1/26) Jan. 27: Minister for Trade Col. Abel received Pakistani Ambassador Mohammad Qurban to discuss trade and cooperation. [photo] (WPD 1/28) New Year's Greetings Jan. 4: On the occasion of the 41st Independence Day of the Union of Burma, diplomatic messages of felicitations were received by LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung from the Heads of State of China, Korea, USSR, Bangladesh (WPD 1/4); Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Nigeria, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Turkey, Argentina, German Democratic Republic (WPD 1/5); Yugoslavia, Algeria, Egypt, Guinea-Bissau (WPD 1/6); Czechoslovakia, Laos, Colombia (WPD 1/7); Thailand, Nepal, Federal Republic of Germany, Sri Lanka, Vietnam (WPD 1/8); Philippines, Israel, Mexico, Cyprus (WPD 1/9); India (1/12); and Maldives (1/13). Messages were received from the Heads of Government of China, Thailand (1/10); Laos, Malaysia, Hungary, Bulgaria, and United Arab Emirates (1/11). Messages were received from the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan, Vietnam, Belgium, and Guinea-Bissau (1/12). Messages were also received from 25 Ambassadors and Charges d'Affaires a.i. accredited to Rangoon. [photos of 22] (WPD 1/4) Ambassador to Laos Jan. 9: The State LORC Chairman named U Aye Kyaw, Ambassador to Vietnam, to be concurrently Burmese Ambassador to Laos. (WPD 1/9) Ambassador to Australia Jan. 16: The State LORC Chairman named U Thein Myint as Burmese Ambassador to Australia. (WPD 1/16) Ambassador to Indonesia Jan. 17: The State LORC Chairman named U Aung Khin as Burmese Ambassador to Indonesia. (WPD 1/17) New Pakistani Ambassador Jan. 18: State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung received the credentials of Mr. Mohammad Qurban as Ambassador of Pakistan. [photos] (WPD 1/19) FOREIGN VISITORS Chinese Delegation Leaves Jan. 5: The Chinese Trade Delegation headed by Director Chen Mao Qi from the China National Arts and Crafts Import and Export Corp., Guangdong Arts and Crafts Co. Ltd. [see Dec. BPS] departed. [photo] (WPD 1/6) World Bank Delegation Jan. 17: A 4-member World Bank Operation Mission was received by Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Minister for Planning and Finance, for Energy, and for Mines. It included Mr. C. Redfern from the Country Operations Division, Mr. G. Menchkoff and Mr. L. Morrell from the Infrastructure Division, and Mr. W. Bertelsmeier from the Industry/ Energy/Operations Division. Ongoing World Bank projects and future prospects were discussed. Chinese Trade Delegation Jan. 17: Maj-Gen. Chit Swe, Minister for Co-operatives, for Livestock and Fisheries, and for Agriculture and Forests, received a Chinese delegation headed by Mme. Wang Ling, member of the China National Native Produce and Animal By Products Exports and Import Corporation. Trade in teak and hardwood was discussed. (WPD 1/18) Mauritian Trade Delegation Jan. 20: A five-member Mauritian Trade Delegation, headed by Minister of Trade and Shipping Mr. D. Gungah, arrived for a 4-day visit. [photo] (WPD 1/21) // Jan. 22: The delegation met with Minister for Trade Col. Abel. In the evening Shan State LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Maung Aye gave them a dinner in Taunggyi. (WPD 1/23) // Jan. 23: After discussions with the Union of Burma Chamber of Commerce and Industries, the delegation left Burma. Mauritius has bought Burmese rice for 150 years, and discussions were held for more rice purchases. [photos](WPD 1/24) BURMESE DELEGATIONS UNESCO Delegation Jan. 6: A Burmese delegation left for the 41st International Education Conference sponsored in Geneva by UNESCO, Jan. 7-17. Members are Director of Technical, Agricultural and Vocational Education Department U Tint Swe and and Deputy Director of Higher Education Department (State Scholarship), and Assistant Secretary of the UNESCO National Commission for Burma, Daw Sein Sein. Leader of the Delegation will be Burmese Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, U Aung Khant. (WPD 1/7) BURMA GAZETTE Probationary Appointments Jan. 5: The State LORC appointed on probation: Col. Aung Koe (BC/7860), Vice-Commandant and Director (Literature), National Defence College, Ministry of Defence, to be Managing Director, Textile Industries Corporation, Ministry of No. (1) Industry. U Han Tun, General Manager, Fisheries Corporation, Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries, to be Managing Director of the same. U Maung Maung Bo, Director, Planning and Statistics Department, Ministry of Agriculture and Forests, to be Director-General of the same. (WPD 1/5) Jan. 12: The State LORC appointed on probation: U Hlaing Myint San, Director, to be Managing Director, Petrochemical Industries Corporation, Ministry of Energy. U Win Maung, Director, to be Director-General, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. Dr. Tin Maung, Pro-Rector, to be Rector, Universities Computer Centre, same Department. U Oo Tha Kyaw, Pro-Rector, to be Rector, Institute of Education, same Department. U Maung Maung Than, Pro-Rector, to be Rector, Rangoon Institute of Technology, same Department. Dr. Maung Kyaw, Professor, Chemistry Department, to be Principal, Bassein Degree College, same Department. U San Maung, Professor, Physics Department, Magwe Degree College, to be Principal, Workers College, same Department. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 26: The State LORC appointed on probation: U Than Pe, Deputy Director, to be Director-General, Pyithu Hluttaw Office. (WPD 1/26) Transfer and Appointment Jan. 12: The State LORC has transferred and appointed: U Tin Oo Hlaing, Rector, Moulmein University, to be Rector, University of Rangoon, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. U Lu Ni, Principal, Myitkyina Degree College, to be Principal, Magwe Degree College, same Department. U Kyaw Mya Thein, Principal, Bassein Degree College, to be Principal, Myitkyina Degree College, same Department. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 26: The State LORC transferred and appointed: Col. Khin Nyein, Director-General, Pyithu Hluttaw Office, to be Director-General, Immigration and Manpower Department, Ministry of Home and Religious Affairs. (WPD 1/26) GOVERNMENT New Year's Honors Jan. 4: State LORC Notification No. 1/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru title to two Sayadaws, and the Agga Maha Pandita title to 10 Sayadaws. [names and affiliations] Notification No. 2/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Naing-Ngant Gon-Yi title, Class (I), to U Pe Myaing and U Myint Lwin. Notification No. 3/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Thiha Thura title to BC/1170l Maj. Tin Aung Myint On, No. 11 Burma Regiment, and No. 623756 Private Vung Lian Mang (posthumous), No. 11 Burma Regiment. The Thura title was awarded to 18 soldiers (incl. 8 officers). [names] The Gallantry Medal was awarded to 145 soldiers (incl. 31 officers and 2 anti-insurgent group members). [names] The Medal for Excellent Performance in Industrial Field of the Economy (2nd class) was awarded to U Khin Maung Thwin Oo of Burma Railways. The Medal for Excellent Performance in Social Field was awarded to three people (1st class), three (2nd class), and 68 (3rd class). [names] The Ye Thura Medal was awarded to 10 policemen. The Ye Bala Medal was awarded to 24 policemen. The Ye Thurein Medal was awarded to one policeman. The Ye Kyaw Swe Medal was awarded to 9 policemen. The Ye Kyawthu Medal was awarded to 14 firemen. [names] Notification No. 4/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Good Military Service Medal to 70 military personnel and 53 retired personnel. Notification No. 5/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Good Public Service Medal to 158 public service personnel and 67 retired personnel. Notification No. 6/89 of Jan. 4, awarded the Public Service Medal to 84 public service personnel and 16 retired personnel, and the Law and Order and Rule of Law Medal to 152 service personnel and 16 retired personnel. (WPD 1/4) Meeting with BSI Jan. 12: Minister for Home and Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Phone Myint met with personnel of the Bureau of Special Investigations (BSI) at its meeting room on Seikkantha St. Present were Lt-Col. Than Nyunt of the Ministry, BSI Director-General U Khin Tun, BSI Deputy Director-General Lt-Col. Ohn Than, and others. He told BSI personnel to avoid giving or taking bribes, and to stand on the side of truth and justice, and warned them against "getting addicted to money, property, liquor and sex." They should work hard and avoid the practise of "no work, no meddling, and no dismissal." (WPD 1/13) [He made similar presentations to other units, as did a number of Ministers.] MILITARY Donations to Military Lengthy lists continued of private donations "for the Tatmadawmen who are serving in front areas." Insurgents Surrender Jan. 8: During December, 12 insurgents surrendered with their arms. [names and details] (WPD 1/9) Insurgent Atrocities Jan. 12: On Jan. 4, Kachin insurgents killed an "innocent mother" in front of her small children at a farm near Ralikhoo Mangkhang village, Mansi Twp. [Kachin]. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 15: Mon insurgents attacked the Ye-Moulmein passenger train with launcher and small arms at milepost No. 243/21 near Anin railway station, after it passed Hnit village at 8 am. The train did not stop. A woman was killed and 12 passengers and 3 guards wounded. (WPD 1/16) // Jan. 16: Injury was from a mine; names of injured given. (WPD 1/17) Jan. 19: Mon insurgents on Jan. 15 burned 30 Mon and Karen houses, and a Karen monastery, in Manaung village, Ye Twp. [Mon]. (WPD 1/20) KNU Camp Captured Jan. 20: The Forward No. 44 and 66 Light Infantry Divisions, in an offensive from Jan. 13-19, captured the KNU Methaye camp, headquarters of the KNU No. 21 battalion led by Kyaw Dalay. There were 9 major battles and 3 skirmishes. Burma Army losses were 13 killed and 98 (incl. 4 officers) wounded. 4 weapons were lost. The Army captured 18 enemies dead, and 36 weapons, four radios, 5 cars, 3 motorboats, 359 rounds large calibre ammunition, 3,200 rounds smallarm ammunition, 14 mines, 30 iron roofed buildings, 2 godowns, and 400 thatched buildings including a cinema hall. About 100 insurgents were killed and many others wounded. [map] (WPD 1/21) ECONOMIC Services Resumed Dec. 30: Rangoon's Bogyoke Aung San Park will reopen Jan. 1, from 6 am to 6 pm. It has been under renovation since Dec. 1. (WPD 1/1) // Jan. 1: The Park opened, and was inspected by LORC Secretary (2) Col. Tin Oo. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 1: In Mandalay, the Mann Thida Garden, the Myaing-he-wun Park, and the Mandalay Hill motor road will reopen Jan. 4, and the Taunggyi Paya-ngazu cross road on Jan. 6. (WPD 1/2) // Jan. 6: They were opened Jan. 4. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 2: Rangoon's Dagon Park, on the corner of U Wisara and Shwedagon Pagoda Roads, reopened Jan. 1. (WPD 1/3) Jan. 4: Rangoon-Pa-an bus service was inaugurated by the Aung-Sit-Thi Highway Bus Service of the Pa-an Township War Veterans' Organization, with 12 buses and a fare of K 45. Buses will leave Rangoon daily at 5 am and Pa-an daily at 6 am. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 6: The Mya Nanda Park children's playground and skating rink in Rangoon was opened Jan. 6. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 9: The Pwekauk waterfall camp in Maymyo [Mdy] was opened to the public Jan. 5. (WPD 1/10) Jan. 11: Landsdowne Road [sic] in Rangoon was reopened to traffic after repairs. Authorities also inspected local-made traffic lights at the corner of Merchant St. and Theinbyu St.; they cost K 13,000 compared with an import cost of K 60,000. (WPD 1/12) Paddy Purchases Jan. 2: Purchases of paddy in Rangoon Division were 6,232,706 baskets as of Dec. 31. Purchases in Pegu Division were 4,851,000 as of Jan. 1. (WPD 1/3) Jan. 11: As of Jan. 10, 8,085,546 baskets of paddy had been purchased in Pegu Division. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 17: As of Jan. 13, 15,518,669 baskets of paddy had been purchased in Irrawaddy Division. As of Jan. 16, 11,400,058 baskets had been purchased in Pegu Division. (WPD 1/18) Jan. 23: As of Jan. 21, 24,162,310 baskets of paddy had been purchased in Irrawaddy Division. (WPD 1/24) Increased Gas Ration Jan. 2: As of Jan. 4, the weekly petrol [gasoline] ration in Rangoon is increased from 4 to 5 gallons for vehicles over 600 cc; from 3 to 4 for vehicles 600 cc; from 1 to 1 1/2 for motorcycles over 250 cc; unchanged at 1 for motorcycles under 250 cc. (WPD 1/3) Welfare Shops Jan. 2: Five welfare shops were opened Jan. 1 in Lanmadaw, Latha, Kyauktada, Botataung, Pazundaung, Seikkan, and Mingala Taungnyunt Townships in Rangoon, sponsored by No. 4 Military Region. Two welfare shops were opened Jan. 1 in Magwe. Prices (with open market comparisons) include: Rice at K 6.5 per pyi (8.5); fish paste at K 8 per viss (16); fish sauce at K 3.75 per bottle (4); and salt at K 4.5 per viss (5.5). (WPD 1/3) Jan. 19: A welfare shop was opened in Lashio Jan. 17. (WPD 1/20) Exporters Registered Jan. 3: Under Paragraph 7 of the 1954 Import-Export Law, 11 people were registered by the Ministry of Trade as exporters: Daw Wah Wah Win Shwe [the movie star-HCMacD], Ko Than Ko, U Maung Maung Swe Tin, Daw Than Nu, U Myint Swe, U Nay Win, U Khin Maung Shwe, U Win Shwe, U Aung Win Khaing (a) U Aung Win, U Myat Thein Tun, and U Aye Myint Soe. U Aung Win Khaing was also registered as an importer. (WPD 1/4) // Jan. 9: Wah Wah Win Shwe Film Production and Exporter raises sign at 265 Barr St. (1st fl.), Rangoon. (WPD photo caption 1/11) Jan. 12: Ten more were registered: U Bo Kyaw, U Ko Ko Kyaw, U Chit San, Daw Tin Tin Wai, U Myo Zaw, U Aung Tin Tun, U Bon Saing, and U Thant Tin (a) U Thet Sann as exporters; U Pyi Soe and U Sein as exporters and importers. (WPD 1/13) Magwe Division Jan. 6-10: A series of feature articles by Myint Lwin reports on a tour of Magwe Division, Dec. 15-27, covering 14 of the 25 townships and focussing on the edible oil production of Burma's "oil pot." l988-89 oilcrop statistics for Magwe Division are: Targets: Groundnut - 340,240 acres, 11,636,607 baskets; Sesamum 1,062,000 acres, 3,536,000 baskets; Sunflower 40,000 acres, 931,420 baskets. Actual results: Monsoon Groundnut - 241,168 acres planted, 236,617 successful, yield 29.05 b/a or 6,873,229 baskets; Winter Groundnut - 93,514 planted, 91,907 successful, yield 42.79 b/a or 3,932,294 baskets; Sesamum - 1,000,914 planted, 649,970 successful, yield 3.36 b/a or 2,184,861 baskets; Sunflower - 31,459 planted, 29,697 successful, yield 3.83 b/a or 11,284 baskets [sic - calculation gives 113,740]. Further details of oil crop purchases, financing, distribution, etc. Coops are doing well in competition with private enterprises. Interviews with producers. Chemical fertilizer supplied by government at K 97 per bag, compared with K 199 on the open market. Farmers in Kanyay village, Minbu Twp., said: "The past yearly rainfall was only 23 inches but this year it was 30, so some of the crops were damaged by too much rain, particularly by the rains that fell from November 17 to 19. The fields got infested with insects. It's been a long time since we last had pesticide supplies. We had to buy it from outside at high prices. This year we are having to pay K 12 to 14 for one pyi of rice and so we are having to sell our produce at current prices. During the disturbances we had to pay K 25 to 30 for a pyi of rice, so we are feeling very bitter about the disturbances. It's also because some fields near the town were looted...." According to the authors, "We... bring...the good tidings that...in this year over 10.8 million baskets of groundnut, over 2.1 million baskets of sesamum, and over 0.50 million baskets of sunflower would be produced." Over 33 million viss of onions will be produced in Magwe Division, including 5.1 million in Yenangyaung Twp. and 4.7 million in Seikpyu Twp. (WPD 1/6,7,8,9,10) Chamber of Commerce Created Jan. 6: Ministry of Trade Press Release No. 1/89 of Jan. 6 [text]: 1. The Ministry of Trade, under Section 16(a) of the Burma Companies Act, dated 6th January 1989 and with License No. 1, issued Association Registered Licence to "The Union of Burma Chamber of Commerce and Industry" located at No. 74/86, Maungtaulay Street, Pabedan Township, Rangoon Division, as "Leading Chamber of Commerce and Industry" which if formed for promoting commerce and any other useful objects, and applies or intends to apply its profits and other income in promoting its object and prohibits the payment of any dividend to its members. 2. Objects: The brief objects of the association are as follows: (a) to maintain its tradition of leading and giving guidance to the merchants, traders, and industrialists; (b) to co-ordinate with other merchants' associations for them to be able to form legally; (c) to get profits is not the main object but for the economy to stand firmly and for the economy not to be a burden to the people; (d) to promote the commerce of Burma in tune with the growing world's trade system; (e) to encourage and render help for the Burma's industry to become world standard; (f) to take steps to have an understanding between the Union of Burma and nations which are engaged in international trade; (g) to aim at having lasting friendship between merchants and other merchants' associations; (h) to help in the work of protecting the trade activities of the State and the citizens; (i) to study the economics, commerce and other kinds of knowledge which meet the world standard and to disseminate them. 3. Central Committee members: The Central Executive Committee members of the association are as follows: Sr Name Profession Office 1. U Yu Saing, Rubber industrialist, Chairman 2. U Ohn (retired secretary), Trader, Vice-Chairman 3. U Maung Maung Nyunt, Trader, exporter, Vice-Chairman 4. U Aung Htut, Trader, exporter, Secretary 5. U Tin Htut, Film maker and trader, Joint-Secy 6. U Myat Thein, Rice mill owner, CEC member 7. U Kyaw Kyaw Thein, Architect, trader, CEC member 8. U Kyaw Zin, Advocate, CEC member Sd. Col Abel Minister, Government of the Union of Burma, Ministry of Trade (WPD 1/7) Rangoon Overpass Jan. 8: The Construction Corporation has started work on a 110 foot long overpass, 10 feet wide, over Bogyoke Aung San Street, for the use of pedestrians going to the Bogyoke Aung San [Scott] Market. (WPD 1/9) Car Import Regulations Jan. 12: Licenses for importing motor vehicles will be issued within 7 days from receipt by the Import/Export Registration Office of the duly-filled applications, as follows: For seamen: (1) Application forms (with particulars duly filled); (2) Recommendations of the Ministry of Transport & Communications; (3) Remittance of salary to family members (those seamen still serving abroad are to have remitted their salaries up to the three months before the day the remittance was made; those seamen who have arrived back in Burma are to have remitted their salaries in full); (4) Portage Bill; (5) Recommendations by the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank to the effect that the buyer has enough FE earning to buy motor vehicles; (6) Proforma Invoice (or) Sales Contract (original); (7) Original Bill of Entry (B/E) for the last imported motor vehicle. For service personnel: (1) Application form (with particulars duly filled); (2) Recommendations of the Ministry concerned; (3) Deputation Order; (4) Receipt & Payment Account; (5) Bank Statement (for those who go abroad for a long term); (6) Recommendations by the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank to the effect that the buyer has enough FE earning to buy motor vehicles; (7) Proforma Invoice (or) Sales Contract (original); (8) Original Bill of Entry (B/E) for the last imported motor vehicle; (9) Those who go abroad under the Foreign Service Regulations are to have paid in income taxes (or) to have remitted 10 per cent of salary (those still serving abroad up to the three months before the day the remittance was made; those who have arrived back in Burma are to have remitted their salaries in full). For those serving abroad on their own arrangements: (1) Application form (with particulars duly filled); (2) Appointment Order; (3) Those who are serving with the United Nations Organization are to have remitted 10 per cent of their salaries; (those still serving abroad are to have remitted their salaries up to the three months before the day the remittance was made; those who have arrived back in Burma are to have remitted their salaries in full); (4) Receipt & Payment Account; (5) Bank Statement; (6) Proforma Invoice (or) Sales Contract (original); (7) Original Bill of Entry (B/E) for the last imported motor vehicle. The Import/Export Registration Office will seek remarks from the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and the Passport Board of the Ministry of Home & Religious Affairs for the duly filled applications. After obtaining the remarks from the said departments, the Import/Export Registration Office will carry on its work for issuing the import licenses within seven days. (WPD 1/13) Partnership Fees Raised Jan. 18: State LORC Law No. 1/89 of Jan. 18, The Law Amending the Partnership Act, substitutes a new Schedule which provides Maximum fees under Sect. 71(1) as follows: Statement under Sect. 58: K 45 Statement under Sect. 60: K 15 Intimation under Sect. 61: K 15 Intimation under Sect. 62: K 15 Notice under Sect. 63: K 15 Application under Sect. 64: K 15 Inspection under Sect. 66(1): K 10 per volume Inspection under Sect. 66(2): K 10 per firm Copies from register of firms: K 5 per 100 words. (WPD 1/19) Foreign Exchange Accounts Jan. 18: Burmese citizens returning home after going abroad on duty or serving abroad, or who get foreign exchange in Burma may open foreign exchange accounts in the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank (MFTB). Those going abroad on duty include delegation members, State scholars, members of study tours, trainees, and seminar participants. Those serving abroad include UN employees, Foreign Affairs Office employees, seamen, and other workers. Foreign exchange received in Burma includes pensions from foreign governments and international organizations, rental of houses or vehicles, inheritances from persons abroad, compensation or insurance from abroad, and gifts. From now on, seamen need remit only 25% of their base pay to their families, instead of 50%. The remainder may be deposited in the MFTB. All those who open MFTB accounts must pay income tax when they remit money. They may use their foreign exchange to buy goods from abroad "as much as they like." This was announced by the Ministry of Planning and Finance in its Directive of Jan. 6, 1989. (WPD 1/20) Food Price Reductions Jan. 25-26: A staff article by Myint Lwin entitled Effective measures taken to bring down commodity prices discusses efforts to reduce food prices, especially in Rangoon. Inspection committee visits showed that wholesale and retail prices (per viss) were: chicken--Ky 40 and K 60; meat and pork--K 28-29 and K 35-40. To control prices, 27 co-operative shops were opened in Rangoon, as of Jan. 1, which retail a 24 pyi bag of Ngakywe rice at K 240, Ei-ma-hta at K 240, and Nga-sein at K 210, which are wholesale prices. Groundnut oil is bought at K 49 per viss and sesamum oil at K 46, and sold with a reduction of 20 pyas per viss; oil bought in 110 viss drums and sold with a reduction of K 22 per drum; this because transport is provided at government rates. Daily sales range from K 5,000 to K 15,000 per shop. Township co-ops also buy rice at wholesale prices (K 120-192 per 24-pyi bag) in Labutta Twp. [Irrawaddy], and sell it in Rangoon at a profit of K 0.5 per pyi. Rangoon consumes 10,000 bags of rice per day, and that number arrive, but some are distributed to other States and Divisions, so the price does not fall. Some farmers got K 12,000 per hundred baskets of rice last year, and are hoarding in hope of the same this year. 6 welfare shops are selling K 3,500 viss of fish wholesale every day. Ketkuyan fish which sells for K 47 per viss outside is sold for K 24. The wholesale price for edible oil is Ky 49 a viss and the retail is Ky 50-52. Before the disturbances, prices reached K 73.50 per viss. "In spite of that, the price of rice consumed by most people has not gone down. Similarly, the price of other consumer items have not gone down.... The fall in commodity prices has not been satisfactory." (WPD 1/25,26) Border Trade Tariff Set Jan. 26: State LORC Law No. 4/89 of Jan. 26, the Law Amending the Tariff Act, 1953, establishes a new "Third Schedule (Border Trade Export Tariff)" under Section 2(2). The former Third Schedule becomes the Fourth Schedule. Rates "on commodities exported by the Union of Burma in border trade business": 1. Agricultural produce, other than rice and paddy: (a) Beans, all sorts--20% of value; (b) Spices--10%; (c) Coconuts and coconut products--10%; (d) Betel-nuts and betel-nut products--10%; (e) Other fruits, vegetables, cereals, pulses and products thereof, not elsewhere specified--10%. 2. Marine produce: (a) Salt--10%; (b) Fish, fresh--25%; (c) Fish, dried and marine products, preserved. (Private export of prawn, fresh or dried, not allowed at border points.)--10%; (c) Other marine products, not otherwise specified--10%. 3. Commodities for personal use and food-stuffs: (a) Flour and food-stuffs made of flour--10%; (b) Cigarettes; cigars; cheroots; pipe tobacco; tobacco, unmanufactured and other related products--10%; (c) Other food-stuffs, no elsewhere specified--10%. 4. Chicken, duck, pig, sheep, goat, alive and products thereof, fresh and preserved: (Private export of cattle, buffalo, elephant, horse and rare animals not allowed at border areas.)--10%. 5. Animal feed: 10%. 6. Forest produce, manuafactured or unmanufactured: (Private export of teak, elephant tusks and hides of rare animals not allowed at border areas.)--15%. 7. Other articles, not elsewhere specified:--10%. --+-- [Explanation of Law--text]: The Government of the Union of Burma is making all-out efforts for fulfilling the food, clothing and shelter needs of the people and for economic development of the country. What is heartening is that people are enthusiastically taking part in the endeavours and the role of the co-operatives and the private entrepreneurs has been enhanced owing to the true cetana. Immediate benefits can be observed from the border trade being undertaken on experimental basis. Constant improvements will be made on the basis of experience gained so that more and more success can be achieved. Border trade will be expanded in accordance with the agreements made with the governments of the neighbouring countries for the benefit of the country and the people. The private entrepreneurs who are engaged in border trade can do their business freely by paying taxes levied on a reasonable scale by the Government. They are free from mental and physical trouble and the goods are legal. The trade also contributed towards an increase in the State revenues. Import tax rates have been prescribed in full in the 1953 Tariff Act. Export tariff for the items added to for legal export in the border trade have not been prescribed yet. Therefore, 1953 Tariff Act has been amended to levy tax under law on a reasonable scale on these items. (WPD 1/27) Rainfall in Rangoon Rainfall since January 1, 1989, 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 Jan. 1 0.00 0.00 0.00 Jan. 15 0.00 0.00 0.00 Jan. 30 0.00 0.00 0.00 HEALTH Medical Act Amended State LORC Law No. 3/89 of Jan. 24, Law Amending the Burma Medical Act, 1957, provides that: In Sect. 2(a): "science of the treatment of uterine disease" shall be replaced by "science for the treatment of gynaecological disease." In Sect. 3(3): "15 Council Members" shall be replaced by "11 Council Members." In Sect. 3(3)(b): "4 Council Members" shall be replaced by "5 Council Members." In Sect. 3(3)(d): "ten Council Members" shall be replaced by "5 Council Members." In Sect. 5(2): "shall have the right to be re-appointed on the expiry of the term of service" shall be replaced by "has the right to be elected or appointed for only three consecutive terms." In Sec. 25 (Proviso): "Registration Officer" shall be replaced by "Chairman of the Council." In the Schedule, Para. 1: "from the University" shall be replaced by "from any Institute of Medicine." (WPD 1/25) CULTURAL Konbaung Period Writers Jan. 15: In the forty-first in his series, Aung Moe begins the "Founders of `Dwara' school and `Shwegyin' school." Okpo Sayadaw Shin Okkan Wuntha Marlar (1817-1905) was born in Ywagale village, Tharawaw circle, Henzada district, son of U Shwe Pan and Daw Lay; his boyhood name was Maung Hnyin. He became a monk at 20, and studied under the Bagaya Sayadaw in Amarapura, and then under the Bhamo Sayadaw, the Mya Thein Dan Sayadaw, the Htuparyon Sayadaw, and even a Brahman. He wrote treatises and poetry in Amarapura until he was 34, when in 1851 he returned to his native village. Later he moved to Ingabu, then called Okpo. So strict that he declined King Mindon's invitation to visit Mandalay, he differed with other monks on a theological point in 1855, and later founded the new "Dwara" sect as distinct from the Thudhamma Council. He made pilgrimages to Buddha Gaya in India in 1880, and to Sri Lanka in 1887. He died in 1905, aged 88, having written over 100 treatises on scriptures as well as several metta-sars and ratus. Shwegyin Sayadaw U Zargara (1822-93) was born in Shwegyin, 12 miles south of Shwebo, son of U Maung and Daw May Mi; his boyhood name was Maung Thant. A novice at 14, he became a monk at 20, with the name of U Zargara, and studied in Shwebo under the disciplinarian Theelon Sayadaw in Wingaba Monastery. He learned Pali, Sanscrit, Bengali and Nagri. At 27 he began to teach, and in 1852 met Prince Mindon. When Mindon became King he asked U Zargara to move to the capital, but he refused until 1860, when he was 39. The King built him five monasteries north of Mandalay: the Maha Dhammika Rama Taik, Htayankar Taik, Yamethin Taik, Mingin Taik, and Myadaung Taik. Later he was expelled by the Thudhamma Ecclesiastical Council, and formed the Shwegyin Sect. In 1868 he appointed his own bishoprics for Alon, Dabayin, Bankyi, Talok, Shwebo, Kale, and Rezagyo Townships; in 1871 he received 15 more monasteries including the Witthodarama Monastery. In 1875 he left Mandalay to live in isolation; but in 1877 made a pilgrimage to Sri Lanka and returned to live at Minhla. He returned to Mandalay in 1851 [sic, presumably 1881] and lived there until he was 64, when he returned to Mingun where he died in 1893 aged 72. He wrote 30 religious works. Maha Witthodharyon Sayadaw U Witthodha Sara (1838-1916) was born as Maung Mauk in Samon village south of Shwebo, son of U Hmo and Daw Mi. A novice at 13, he began studies under the Shwegyin Sayadaw at 17, learning Sanscrit. He became a monk at 20, and continued his studies in Mandalay under the Shwegyin Sayadaw. At 34, he was given the Maha Witthodharyon monastery by King Mindon's Central Queen Hsinbyushin Ma. In 1873 King Mindon, and in 1884 King Thibaw, gave him the title of Raza Guru. He succeeded the Shwegyin Sayadaw as head of the Shwegyin Sect and died in 1916, aged 78. He wrote 33 works on scripture and was given the Agga Maha Pandita title by the British. (WPD 1/15) Jan. 22: The forty-second article, continued that of Jan. 15. (WPD of 1/22 not received) Jan. 29: The forty-third article concerns three writers named U Kyee and two named U Tin. Thuwutti U Kyee came from Thuwutti, near Ngarane, north of Shwebo. A decendent of hereditary cavalry chiefs with a court title of Min Nemyo Thurein Kyaw, most of his family were nevertheless artistes [performers]. He composed a number of than-chos and lwan-chins for marionette shows. Sathar U Kyee came from Sathar village in Sagaing township, and composed chronicles under Kings Mindon and Thibaw, and was also a Town Clerk and Forest Clerk in Toungoo. After the fall of King Thibaw, he moved to Pyinmana and died a little later. Wun Sare U Kyee bas clerk to King Thibaw's Taingdar Wungyi. In 1904 he wrote the first original Burmese novel, Chinbaungywet Thai Maung Hmaing or The Roselle Seller Maung Hmaing published by Hanthawaddy Press in Rangoon. It was written following publication of a Burmese version of Dumas' The Count of Monte Cristo. U Kyee published three more novels: Sein Talay, Mya Gale, and Khin Khin Nyun, which were Burma's first paperbacks. Pagan Wundauk U Tin was born in Mandalay in 1861, son of the Poet U Thaung and Daw Saw. He was an adept religious scholar, but left the monastery to become a clerk in the Shwe Taik. He continued to work under the British administration, becoming Subdivisional Officer or Pagan Wundauk. At 49 he attended King George V's visit to India, and retired at 60; returning to service for three years to compile Burmese Hluttaw records. He joined Rangoon College at age 65 and taught Burmese; at 71 he was awarded an honorary MA. He died in East Rangoon in 1933, aged 73. He authored a number of chronicles and gazetteers on pagodas, stone inscriptions, etc., compiled Burmese official records including "Administration of Burmese Kings," and wrote widely on other subjects. Konbaung Set U Tin was born in Mandalay in 1866, son of Minre Thiha Kyaw, Prince of Minyu and a mother of Thai royal stock. After a monastic education, he took up arms against the British after Thibaw's fall, but in 1891 became Myo-ok of Pinlebu in Kawlin. In 1892 he married Hteik Tin Sint, a descendant of King Tharrawaddy. In 1906 he was promoted Sub-Divisional Officer and posted to Kyaukse. In 1916, while serving in Ye-U, he was awarded the KSM. In 1917 he was sent to Monywa as Extra-Assistant Commissioner. He retired in 1921, but returned to serve as Mahadan Wun Religious Affairs Officer in Mandalay from 1924-29. After retirement he compiled the Konbaung Set Chronicle, and biographies of U Ponnya and Kinwun Mingyi U Kaung. he died in 1945. (WPD 1/29) Guardian Magazine The January 1989 issue of the Guardian Magazine is on sale [contents listed, including Chit San Win's research paper on "Burmese marionette theatre" translated into English by Aung Moe.]. (WPD 1/11) Maha Wizaya Zedidaw Jan. 16: The Maha Wizaya Zedidaw Construction Board was reconstituted under the Chairmanship of Rangoon LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt. The Pagoda, begun in 1980 in commemoration of the First Meeting of Sangha of all Orders, is completed except for finishing touches and decorations. [This new Pagoda, just south of the Shwedagon Pagoda, was a project popularly associated with former BSPP Chairman U Ne Win--HCMacD.] (WPD 1/17) Films Authorized Jan. 16: The Motion Picture Corporation has authorized the purchase of negatives for 8 color and 6 black and white films, previously approved for shooting, viz: Color: Win-gaba-hte-ga Dho-hnit-yauk (Myandanda Film Co., by Director U Tin Yu); Nge-thu-moh Mathi-ba (Theinmin Film Co., Dir. Maung Nanda); Hsone-yay (Pyithu Myitta Film Co., Dir. Kyi Soe); Pya-yay-hsan-thaw Chit-khayi-gyan (Theingi Film Co., Dir. Maung Hla Myo); Mone (Yamonna Film Co., Dir. U Kyee Myint); Apyan Ahlan (Pwint-chein-tan Film Co., Dir. Sein Thamani); Dah-taung-go-kyaw-yway Mee-pinle-go-hpyat-myi (Kaythipan Film Co., Dir. Kyaw Hein); Pan-myaing-lai-ga Oo-yin-hmu (Shepyidaw Film Co., Dir. Maung Tin Oo.) Black and White: Chit-Thatti (Myinsaing-tha Film Co., Dir. Aung Aung); Maleinmo Maleinma (Shwe Karaweik Film Co., Dir. Maung Nanda); Waing-sein-ma (Aung Zabu Film Co., Dir. Aung Myint Hteik); Hnaphu-hmar Hme-par-dai (Moe Myitzu Film Co., Dir. Maung Maung Myint); Bar chit-tha-la Ma-may-ne (Shwe Don Film Co., Dir. Sein Thanmani); Shein-thu (Ingyin Myaing Film Co., Dir. Thin Thin Yu.) 23 other films [listed] have been approved for shooting. (WPD 1/17) Pali Translations Jan. 22, 29: Feature article entitled Some English Translations of the Mettasutta by Western Scholars, by Tint Lwin. [Excerpts from English translations of Pali texts.] Relics Donated Jan. 23: Sayadaw U Indaka from the Hnin-yun-zay-ta-wun Kyaung, Zeyatkyee village, Htantabin Twp., Pegu Division, on Jan. 10 handed over to Pegu LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Aye Thoung an old set of Kamava that had been donated by U Lawka Ohn, wife Daw Mu Ngan, and U Toke during the time of the first Presiding Sayadaw U Ariyavamsa. The Kamava is on 12 sheets of thin ivory, 22 1/2 x 3 1/4 inches, plus 2 ivory covers and a binding rope. It will be given to the Archaeology Department through the Ministry of Defence. [photos] (WPD 1/24) Jan. 26: Capt. Maung Maung Aung of Mandalay Nanmyo turned over to the Archaeological Department Konbaung period relics found while digging in his compound: gold ring with brown ruby, 23 gold leaves, a silver betel box, a silver lime pot, a square silver box, a silver bowl, a silver cup, 5 silver tablespoons, 6 silver spoons, a pair of silver pincers, 5 Yadanabon-period coins, 5 lead coins, 1 earthenware pipe. The silver articles weighed 59 ticals and the gold 12.5 ticals. He will receive a reward. [photo of objects] (WPD 1/27) Jan. 29: "Frequent reports of people's handing over antiques to the authorities indicate that there is greater awareness, among people of the values of cultural relics.... [Nevertheless] there remains a possibility of cultural artifacts being smuggled out of the country.... Every person is duty bound to prevent such treasures from falling into the hands of unscrupulous elements." (WPD editorial 1/29) Morning TV Program Jan. 26: Beginning Jan. 28, a morning television program will be telecast on weekends and holidays from 8.30-9.30 am. (WPD 1/27) Pagan Painting Jan. 29: A feature article entitled Pagan the cradle of Burmese painting, by Win Pa, traces the development of mural and fabric painting in the Pagan period. (WPD 1/29) MISCELLANEOUS Crime News Jan. 3: Acting on tips, Rangoon police on Dec. 31 arrested one che-hti bookie in Tamwe Twp. with K 14,048 in stakes; two in Latha Twp. with K 9,300; one in Kyauktada Twp. with K 31,655; two in Lanmadaw Twp. with K 1,004; three in Hlaing Twp. with K 13,573; one in No. Okkalapa Twp. with K 18,594; and another in No. Okkalapa with K 24,104. On Jan. 1, Rangoon police arrested three men with a total of 0.3208 kilos of heroin, worth K 56,000. [photos] (WPD 1/5) Jan. 12: Mandalay police on arrested two people with 0.0915 kilos of heroin on Dec. 21, and one with 0.0127 kilos of heroin on Dec. 22. [photos] (WPD 1/13) Jan. 18: Tamwe Twp. [Rgn] police on Jan. 15 arrested a che-ti bookie with K 2,786 in stakes. Thingangyun Twp. [Rgn] police on Jan. 15 arrested 4 che-ti bookies with K 182 in stakes. (WPD 1/19) Jan. 20: Mandalay police on Dec. 30 arrested a man with 205 125 ml. bottles of phensedyl. Kutkai Twp. [Shan] police on Jan. 2 arrested a woman with 0.5 kilos of heroin. Rangoon police on Jan. 14 arrested two youths with 16.33 kilos of marijuana. [photos] (WPD 1/21) Jan. 26: Botataung Twp. [Rgn] police on Jan. 19 arrested a man with 27 packets of heroin weighing 16.2 grams, and a syringe. Latha Twp. police on Jan. 20 arrested a man with 21 packets of heroin weighing 10.5 grams, plus K 9,390. Mingala Taungnyunt Twp. police on Jan. 19 arrested two men with 1.68 grams of heroin. [photos] (WPD 1/27) Crimes of Disturbance Era Dec. 31: U Win Kyaing and 30 others involved in the October 11 killing of Than Tun (a) Gyinpu, of Chit-tee-gon Ward, Mingaladon Twp., Rangoon, for causing disturbances under the influence of liquor, have all been arrested. [names] (WPD 1/1) Jan. 4: Dallah Twp. [Rgn] police have arrested 13 murderers who beheaded 5 rowdy elements at the Thamada beach in Dallah on Sept. 8. Other participants are being sought. [photos] (WPD 1/5) Jan. 4: Five culprits who killed and disemboweled a man in Maubin Twp. [Irrawaddy] on Sept. 9 for alleged fish poaching have been arrested. [photos] (WPD 1/6) Jan. 5: 12 culprits who beheaded a man Sept. 12 in Hlaing Twp. [Rgn] have been arrested; one of them [photo & description] "is absconding" and is being sought. (WPD 1/6) // Jan. 20: The missing man has been arrested. [photo] (WPD 1/21) Jan. 9: Nine murderers who killed three persons in Tamwe cemetery, Tamwe Twp. [Rgn] on Sept. 8, accusing them of trying to set the ward on fire, were arrested Jan. 8. [photos] (WPD 1/10) Jan. 10: The Latha Twp. [Rgn] police have arrested 10 murderers who hacked a man to death at the Rangoon General Hospital on Sept. 6. [photos] One Shwe Myint is wanted for participating in the murder of policemen in North Okkalapa Twp. [Rgn] on Aug. 8. [photo and description] (WPD 1/11) // Jan. 23: He has been arrested. [photo] (WPD (1/24) Jan. 13: Bahan Twp. [Rgn] police have arrested 13 culprits who killed and burned two men, who were accused of prostitution, looting, and arson, near the Kokhine junction on Sept. 11. [photos] (WPD 1/14) Jan. 15: Rangoon police have arrested 12 people who on Sept. 7 beheaded an unidentified man in Botataung Twp. on suspicion of being an arsonist. [names] (WPD 1/17) Jan. 19: 14 murderers from Tamwe Twp. [Rgn], who murdered a man accused of arson on Aug. 27 have been arrested. Others are still being sought. [photos] (WPD 1/20) Jan. 20: A man involved in the beheading of four people in front of the Rangoon General Hospital on Sept. 13 is sought. [description] (WPD 1/21) Engagement Dec. 18: Engagement announced between Soe Soe Aung (Mo Mo), daughter of U Aung Than (Dir., No. 1 Mining Co.) and Daw Tint Cho, and Lwin Htoo Hla Myint (Sunno), son of U Hla Myint (Principal, Tech. Teachers Training Inst.) and Daw Tin Tin Ohn. (WPD 1/3) Obituaries Dec. 29: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Adicca Maha Thera, Leading Nayaka of Maha Dhammika Yama Theintaung Kyaung-taik, Kalaw, vassa 75, died in Taunggyi, aged 95. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 1: U Kyaw Daing, retired Commander, Burma Navy, son of U Sein Daing and Daw Than Than, died in Rangoon, aged 66. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 4: Tommy Cliff, retired Vice-Chief of Staff (Air), retired Brig-Gen. Gold Coast, Brisbane, Australia, husband of Joyce Cliff, father of Mill, Patricia, Carol and John, died in Australia, aged 72. (WPD 1/11) Jan. 8: Daw Hla Thein (Mrs. Robert Maung Tin), mother of...Daw Yin Yin Wai-U Aye Lwin (Dir-Gen, Foreign Ministry), U Pe Thein Tin (Dir, Foreign Ministry)-Daw Win Win Swe, Dr. Tin Myaing Thein-Dr. J. Reynolds, died in Rangoon, aged 85. Funeral at Judson Church, University Estate, Jan. 10. (WPD 1/9) Jan. 8: Sheila Nicholas (a) Daw Khin Swe Win, I.W.T, daughter of the late Mr. F.J.P. Nicholas, died in Rangoon, aged 49. Funeral at St. Joseph's Church, Thingangyun. (WPD 1/9) Jan. 10: Daw Mya Mya Khin, (a) Sheila, daughter of the late U Maung Maung Gale and Daw Pwa Theik, sister of Daw Thin Thin (Daisy), Daw Kyi Kyi Hla, and Peggy (U.S.A.), died in Rangoon, aged 59. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 11: Mrs. Mavis Davies, wife of Capt. Arthur Davies (BAC), mother of Sharon Davies (BAC Acc. Dept.), died in Rangoon, aged 72. Funeral Jan. 13 at Immanuel Baptist Church. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 12: U S.K. Goh, died in Rangoon, aged 81. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 13: Mr. C. H. Montgomery, widower of Daw Kyin Sein, brother of Mrs. Laura Millar and Mrs. Mildred Oliver (England), father of Adeline (Alan), Maureen (U Tun Gyi), Pastor U Ba Khin (Douglas) (Singapore) (Daw Yee Yee Shwee), Noreen (John Htun), Dr. Thelma (U Maung Maung Aye), died in Rangoon, aged 86. Funeral at Seventh-day Adventist Church, Jan. 15. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 14: Daw Hta Shwe, (Moulmein), widow of U San Win, mother of U Soe Thwin, Dr. Daw Aye Aye Myint,...Dr. Myint Thein, USA (Daw Khin Aye), Daw Myat Myat (U Maung Maung-Sierra Leone),...U Win Naing-USA (Daw Yee Yee Win),...died in Rangoon, aged 79. (WPD 1/16) Jan. 16: Mrs. Baby Oliveiro, widow of Mr. C. Oliveiro, mother of Charles (Moureen), Annie, Johnny, Mary...died in Rangoon, aged 64. Funeral in St. Francis Church Jan. 18. (WPD 1/17) Jan. 19: Naw Minnie, (Mrs. M. De Silva), relict of the late Mr. D.L. De Silva, died in Rangoon, aged 63. Funeral at Immanuel Baptist Church Jan. 21. (WPD 1/20) Jan. 22: Saw Truman Joy, (BAC-SITA), son of (Saw Joy) and Daw Naw Sarah Shwe Nu (YWCA), husband of Naw Beh Be, died in Rangoon, aged 39. Funeral at Karen Baptist Church, Thamaing, Jan. 23. (WPD 1/23) Jan. 22: Celia Helena Trutwein, nee Nicholas, widow of Alf Trutwein, died in Bassein, aged 76. (WPD 1/24) Jan. 28: Bo Yan Naing (Thirty Comrades), son of U Khant and Daw Thant (Aunglan), husband of Daw Tinsa Maw Naing, No. 81(C) University Avenue, Rangoon, died in Rangoon, aged 71. (WPD 1/29) Daw Khin Kyi Funeral Dec. 31: A Committee for the funeral of Daw Khin Kyi is formed, composed of Bohmu Aung (Thirty Comrades), U Tin Oo (retired General), U Aung Shwe (retired Ambassador), Bo Ye Htut (Thirty Comrades), U Chit Khaing, U Win Tin, and Vidura Thakin Chit Maung, and with representatives from various political parties. The funeral will be Jan. 2. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 1,2: Announcements: Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi widow of Bogyoke Aung San (aged 77) Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi, daughter of (U Pho Hnyin-Daw Phwa Su), widow of Bogyoke Aung San, mother of U Aung San U, (Ko Aung San Lin) and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi-Dr Michael Aris and grandmother of Maung Myint San Aung and Maung Htein Lin, passed away on 27 December 1988 at her residence at No 54-56 University Avenue, Rangoon. The funeral will take place at 1.00 pm on 2 January, 1989. The bereaved family -+- Deeply grieved for Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi I, U Aung San U, and wife are deeply grieved at the demise of Mother Maha Thiri Thudhamma Daw Khin Kyi, widow of National Leader Bogyoke Aung San, on 27 December 1988. U Aung San U Daw Le Le Nwe Thein -+- Request to members of Sangha, the people and the students made by the State Law and Order Restoration Council The funeral ceremony of Daw Khin Kyi, widow of National Leader and Father of the Tatmadaw Bogyoke Aung San will be held on 10th Waning Day of Nadaw, 1350 BE (2 January 1989). The members of the Sangha, the people and the students are requested to render help for the peaceful and successful holding of the funeral ceremony. The State Law and Order Restoration Council (WPD 1/1, repeated 1/2) Jan. 1: Aung San's oldest son, U Aung San U, arrived from Bangkok Dec. 31, and visited the Arzani Mausoleum. [photo] State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung and other high officials paid respects to the late Daw Khin Kyi at her residence, giving encouragement to U Aung San U and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. They also inspected the tomb site on Shwedagon Pagoda Road. [photos] (WPD 1/2) Jan. 2: Daw Khin Kyi was entombed at a mausoleum on Shwedagon Pagoda Road, between those of Sayagyi Thakin Kodaw Hmaing and Queen Supayalat, Queen of King Thibaw. The funeral procession was led by U Aung San U and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, and included Ministers, the Chief Justice, Attorney-General, and Auditor-General, ranking military officers, heads of department, Ambassadors and foreign military attaches and their wives, U.N. personnel and wives, Sayadaws, monks and Buddhist nuns, politicians, representatives of national races, and students. Many sent flowers. "Thousands upon thousands of people" lined the streets. [photos] (WPD 1/3) Fires Jan. 11: A fire on Jan. 10 at the service personnel family lines at No. 99 East Sibinthaya Compound, Ward No. 6, Kamayut Twp. [Rgn] destroyed 80 rooms from 6 family lines, leaving 78 households homeless, and causing damage of K 200,000. Police "carried out security duties...so that no undesirable incidents would occur...." There were no casualties. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 14: A fire started in the Thuriya Cotton Ginning Factory at 10th St., Ward No. 3, Hlaing Twp. [Rgn], and destroyed houses in 3rd, 6th, 8th, 9th, and 10th lanes in Wards Nos. 2 and 3. Primary School No. 4 was destroyed. 35 engines fought the fire; the loss is still being estimated. (WPD 1/15) // Jan. 16: The fire relief camps were visited by authorities, and donations are accepted. (WPD 1/17) // [subsequent issues carried articles on donations for the fire victims, but no further details of the fire.] Advertisements PEOPLE'S PATISSERIE First-floor Garden WESTERN BREAKFAST from 5:00 am to 10:00 am (Excluding Saturday & Sunday) Juices: Fruits Eggs to order Scotch, Russian, Ham & eggs, Omelette Chicken omelette & Tomato omelette. Special Tea and Coffee People's Patisserie No 345, Bogyoke Aung San Street Rangoon Phone 76706 (WPD 1/16) --+-- NOW AVAILABLE A Video Souvenir to take home 7 Days in Burma: A short documentary in English on Life in Burma Only K 700/- For preview individually or in group: open daily 8:00 am-8:00 pm TT&T Studio 55 Barr St Rangoon (WPD 1/17) Divorce Jan. 15: Lt-Col. Tun Sein, Commanding Officer of No. 2 Military Hospital, was divorced from Daw Mya Mya Thwe. (WPD 1/17) +-+-+-+-+ TO SUBSCRIBE Write to Hugh C. MacDougall, 32 Elm Street, Cooperstown, NY 13326. Annual Subscriptions: U.S. (individuals) - US$ 40.00 U.S. (institutions) - US$ 50.00 Foreign - US$ 50.00 (by airmail); additional charge for US$ check on foreign bank-$5.00. 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). +-+-+-+-+