89-04 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from the WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. III, No. 4, April 1989 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans 2 Political Articles (Excerpts) 2 False Broadcasts Published 5 WPD Slogans 5 Press Conferences 6 Detainees Released 10 Subversives Seized 10 Party Misbehavior 10 ELECTIONS Party Registrations & Changes 10 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 11 Ambassador to Britain 11 Ambassador to Finland 11 Ambassador to China 11 Relations with Peru Set 12 Ambassador to Korea 12 Laos Ambassador Arrives 12 New Ambassador to UN 12 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Chinese Books 12 Rangoon-Syriam Bridge 12 FOREIGN VISITORS Thai Deputy Foreign Minister 12 Foreign Journalists 12 Australian Diplomat 12 Australian War Graves 12 BURMESE DELEGATIONS Dr. Pe Thein to China 12 Red Cross Delegation Returns 13 Col. Abel in China 13 Army Leader Visits Thailand 13 BURMA GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 13 Appointments 13 GOVERNMENT State Enterprises Law 13 Income Tax Rates 14 Merchant Marine Act 14 Cemetery Registration 14 Foreign Fishing Boats Law 15 New Supreme Court Justice 15 Flag Rules Changed 15 TV-Video Law Amended 15 MILITARY Donations to Tatmadaw 15 Ne Win Visits Exhibit 15 Insurgent Attacks 15 Insurgents Surrender 16 KNU Saboteur Seized 16 KNU Me-la Camp Captured 16 BCP Headquarters Captured 16 ECONOMIC Company Registrations 16 Economic Agencies Renamed 17 Salary Advance 18 Economic Articles 18 Fish Factories Restored 19 Importers, etc., Registered 19 TV & VCR Regulations 19 Joint Venture Company 19 Agricultural Loan Rates 20 Rainfall in Rangoon 20 HEALTH Indigenous Medicine Papers 20 SPORTS Delegation to China 20 CULTURAL Holidays Set 20 Religious Examinations 20 Burmese Literature 20 Konbaung Period Writers 21 Burmese Arts 21 Bells of Burma 21 Memoirs of Htin Lin 22 Pyu Inscription Found 22 Rewards for Artifacts 22 Thingyan Festival 22 Movies Reopen 22 National Literary Committee 22 Foreign Correspondents Club 23 Mandalay Restorations 23 MISCELLANEOUS Crime News 23 Crimes Statistics 24 Obituaries 24 Fires 24 Garden Series 25 Parks, Zoos, etc. 25 Hailstorm in Mandalay 25 +-+-+-+-+ Includes Mar. 30 issue. Apr. 14 issue not yet received. +-+-+-+-+ POLITICAL CRISIS Political Slogans The political slogans quoted in the November issue continued to appear in each issue of WPD throughout April. Political Articles (Excerpts) Following the pattern begun in October, each issue contains lengthy feature articles, translated from Burmese, designed to bolster government views and policies. We note them briefly, with excerpts of particularly significant portions, but can provide copies if needed: Mar. 30: A Cry from those falling down into their own pit, by A Listener. [US ended aid to Burma, and accused Burma of diverting forces from fighting narcotics to suppressing disturbances. Senator Moynahan's remarks on VOA, Mar. 4, "calling for stopping the civil war and for the establishment of democracy are only meant for interference in other's internal affairs .... [they] are identical to the... [colonialists']...cunning and bullying tactics.... The American Government should understand that it cannot overwhelm the Union of Burma.... The encouragement made by the Americans in the affairs of Sudan, Cambodia and Angola has shown their worst and stupid attitude...."] Apr. 1: Patriotic youths who are worthy of honour, by A Patriotic Teacher. [Virtues of trainees of the Academy for the Development of National Groups.] Apr. 3: On the march, abreast of each other, together!, by A K Kyaw. [Tatmadaw praised.] Apr. 3: The desires of one from among the 40 million, by Nyein Chan Thu. [Political parties should "stop...shouting and distributing things to cause disturbances."] Apr. 3-6: Why the Tatmadaw had to take over all the powers of the State, by Ye Gaung Kyaw Swa. [(1) During disturbances "73 residents were killed--55 with their heads cut off and 18 done away with by axes, swords and jinglees." The VOA and BBC broadcast "lies, false news and rumours with evil intent ...as part of the outside interference with evil designs." Some "unscrupulous persons committed acts of high treason and terrorism," by attacking 17 police stations, (4 each in Magwe and Rangoon, 3 in Mandalay, 2 in Sagaing, 1 in Tenasserim, Irrawaddy, Mon and Pegu). Police had to fire, killing 67 and wounding 126. 25 members of security units were killed and 10 wounded. 1 Tatmadawman was killed and 2 wounded. (2) On Sept. 17 demonstrators abused the Army. On Sept. 12, "In order to openly interfere in and meddle with the internal affairs of Burma with a view to turning it into its subservient nation, that big nation sent a US Task Force ...to about 190 nautical miles on the south of Rangoon...[and] practised launching small gunboats ...." The US Embassy gave an "outright lie" that the Task Force was there to evacuate Embassy families, although they had left by air Sept. 11. "The responsible persons of the US Embassy, who understood the seriousness of the situation and the consequence that it would unleash ordered the US Task Force to leave Burma's territorial waters quickly and immediately." The "internal traitors," who had "invited the US Task Force," faked navy and airforce statements that an interim government would be formed and the existing government removed. The people will be able to see through "a foreign power's infringement on the sovereignty of the State, the synchronized execution of the plan of the power-mongers, old-time politicians and national traitors who, taking cover behind the slogans for democracy, have been trying to send Burma back into servitude and their working hand in glove with those from outside the country." ["Flotilla" corrected to "Task Force"--WPD 4/5] Destroyed during the disturbances were 45 mills and factories, 60 godowns, 75 office buildings, 13 bridges, 22 shops, 37 vehicles, 2 workshops, and much equipment. (3) The total loss for the country was K 533,376,200, of which K 448,800 in cash and K 532,927,400 in material [tables breaking this down by Ministry and types of material]. 36 People's Council offices and 37 Party unit offices were "occupied by the destructive elements;" 7 and 2 "partially occupied...and partially taken care of by the ward elders;" 27 and 24 destroyed. In Mandalay, the "anarchist tendency reigned supreme" with members of the Sangha "uprising against the Government and their attempt to split up the Tatmadaw." There were 57 strike camps. Crimes and takeover of government functions in Mandalay by the Thamaggas (unions), known as Galonni, Aung San Kyai Ni, Yan Aung Mye, Mann Aung, Mya Taung, U Pe Si, and Ein Daw Ya. (4) "Domination by terrorists and extortionists became the order of the day." Therefore, "the Tatmadaw unavoidably had to take over all the powers of the State on 18-9-88." Similar situations had arisen in 1958 (when "General Ne Win formed a caretake government") and in 1962 (when "the Tatmadaw led by Defence Services Chief of Staff General Ne Win had to take custody of State power on 2 March...").] Apr. 3: The Resistance Park, by Kyaw Khaung. [Armed Forces Day ceremony described.] Apr. 4: Who stands steadfastly on the side of the people, by Maung Hmat Kyauk. [The Tatmadaw, not the strikers, criminals, greedy traders, and old or new politicans who spread rumours about the Tatmadaw.] Apr. 5: Let me speak to Vitit Muntarbhorn, by Nyan Htet. [Response to critical article about Burma in the Mar. 26 Bangkok The Nation.] Apr. 7: Official Secrets Act, the concern of one and all, by Myo Chit Thu. [Ignorance of the 1923 secrets act is no excuse; Act's provisions are described.] Apr. 8: Development and Developing Nations, by Maung Ye Non. [Not true that Burma has been "reduced to poverty." Its debt is proportionately less than neighbors; not the world's poorest country; free of many of developed countries' woes; economy is improving.] Apr. 12: The Rule of Law, by A Citizen. [Citation of laws against unlawful assembly, rioting, etc., leading to martial law and the Army's "timely intervention" on Sept. 19.] Apr. 13: An everlasting gift for the new year, by Aung Pan Wai Myaing. [Think before speaking and don't spread malicious rumours.] Apr. 15,16: The questions I would like to ask, by Bo Thanmani. [(1) Timetable for elections is better than in most countries; why is it criticized?; (2) No need for a Constituent Assembly; there are 54 Parties {listed} representing "the national racial groups."] Apr. 15: Parents and children (Discussion between Thitsa and Myitta), by Byamahso. [Cont. (2) Duties of children towards parents.] Apr. 17: The Burma we love, by Seinn Mya Yee. [Horrors of the disturbances period; nasty rumors of today.] Apr. 18: Peaceful pursuit of education, by Saw Hla Tun (Thaung-U). [Whether schools reopen depends mainly on students and parents.] Apr. 19: Some matters concerning diplomacy, by Thagadoe. [Diplomats are wrong to drive recklessly and too fast. Former British Ambassador Nicholas Fenn once amazed the author by reciting the Burmese proverb that "Ahthwa Taman... Ahpyan Shay-nay" or "A diplomat must act a diplomat when he goes out of his country to serve in another country and he must act a lawyer when he is back in his country after serving in another country." "The Ambassador had already learnt Burmese very well while he was still in England and when he came to Burma he continued to systematically learn Burmese from a well known writer.... So he is very good at Burmese and has a good knowledge in the affairs of the Burmese." Apr. 20: One should not be reluctant to right the wrong, by U Chit Oo. [Crimes of the BCP; other political parties should avoid making the same moral errors.] Apr. 20-21: All-Burma Students Democratic Front, a follower of KNU, by Nyan Htet. [The status of the ABSDF {as described in the Apr. 19 press conference}.] Apr. 22: For the sake of future Burma, by Thagadoe. [New leader must above all not be servile, because the "long noses" want to make Burmese into slaves, so avoid political parties which are "lackeys of the neo-colonialists."] Apr. 24,25,26: Invisible as water, by Myo Htet. [BCP infiltration of AFPFL in past; systematic machinations against Tatmadaw during disturbances and today; beneficent role of Tatmadaw.] Apr. 24-25: The true nature of the KNU: Revelation of a student who fled Thebawbo camp, by Aung Aung. [Returned university student describes mistreatment and disillusion while with the KNU.] Apr. 24: The evil designs behind the words, by Thagadoe. [Cars with diplomatic license plates transported "some people" in Okkala area; the people had to be persuaded not to stone them. US warning against visiting Burma now, when it made no warning during the disturbances and Congressman Solarz was a special guest, is irritating. We remember the foreign KMT aggression against Burma, and how the Karens sold captured university girls into KMT prostitution in exchange for weapons. We remember the US musical troupe in Aung San Stadium in March 1988, where a Taiwan "kadaw" woman (official's wife) was given priority. Our good draft election law only excludes lunatics and insurgents from standing for election. On Apr. 2, "the VOA broadcast comments on Burma by Political Science Professor Dr Joseph Silver Stein of Utah University of the United States [sic]. He said that the election law of Burma is not complete as it does not allow insurgents of national racial groups to stand for election.... In his broadcast the professor also said that the future leaders of Burma will have to extend a welcoming hand to the national racial group insurgents, draw up a constitution and establish a democratic state and that the national racial insurgents are looking forward to that.... This is what the United States orders. The order is to get [let?] the insurgents stand for the election and for the next leader to bring in the Karen insurgents if the insurgents have no right to stand for the election. That is that."] Apr. 24-25: The Tatmadaw that always overcomes any kinds of difficulties and wins victories, by Bo Thanmani. [Review of victories over KNU; role of Tatmadaw today.] Apr. 25-26: The KNU who are breathing their last, by Mya Win. After the defeat at Me-la, the KNU fled to the Wallay area far to the south, because they feared the capture of Wahkha and Hpalu. Background of KNU internal dissensions outlined. The only KNU strongholds left are Hpalu and Menapalaw camps, with 1/10 the strength of the fallen Me-la. From Sept. 26, 1988 to present, some 4,000 KNU have been killed or wounded. "The Karen insurgency is a bad legacy of colonialism." Even after Karen state created, "those who hated Burma instigated them and gave political support to them."] Apr. 25: No torture during arrest; well fed and well kept: Living happily with families, by Kyaw Lwin Htay Soe. [Interview with Zin Waing and Ko Thura (a) Zagana, actors arrested Oct. 2, 1988, for subversion and released Apr. 21, 1989, denying reports of their mistreatment in jail.] Apr. 27: The people do not want disturbances, by Khin Latt. [After events of last year, people afraid of disturbances of any kind.] Apr. 28,29: What is democracy?, by Mi Khin Thant. [Free elections, not interim government. Capitalists first used "free world," then "democracy", and now that the world realizes there is also "socialist democracy", they use "human rights," as in capitalist broadcasts interfering in Burmese internal affairs. Then, some people "did whatever was told by the BBC, the VOA and foreign periodicals. They seemed to think that `democracy' was in the hands of the imperialists and foreign destructive elements. Some considered that democracy was with the insurgents [and] inveigled the students into going there." Democracy is in the hearts of the people who will vote, not "the politicians who pretend to desire democracy by shouting...."] Apr. 28: The all-round economic development of Burma and the role of the private sector, by Pwayhla-Myat Thu. [Reviews Law No. 9/89 laying out sectors of State and private enterprise.] Apr. 30: What temerity to say such a thing!, by Thukhi Aung. [Most foreign Embassies are friendly, but a very small number are "daily attacking us, in co-operation with a political party which is bitterly hostile to the Government...by spreading false news, unfounded rumours and allegations through some of their periodicals and broadcasting stations.... There are still allegations to the effect that the army is killing people and arresting people every day. The Tatmadaw is crushing the lackeys and hanging dogs of the imperialists and colonialists such as the KNU [and]...will continue...until they are completely uprooted and crushed. The Tatmadaw never kills or arrests innocent people. It takes action against those who have broken laws only after it has warned them again and again.... Even some big nations which formerly misunderstood our country...have agreed to resume the aids for the people as before.... Australia and some other countries...are about to have normal relations with Burma and offer to give economic aids and...I was shocked to read...in the [Apr. 22]...Bangkok Post...that a so-called leader of a political party had asked Australia and other countries not to establish relations with Burma and not to give economic aids to Burma.... Every patriot should be glad to receive aids without any strings attached...."] False Broadcasts Published Apr. 5, etc.: [text of ad]: Read all the falsehood A collection of broadcasts by BBC, VOA, AIR Capricious Burmese communists Capricious BBC Capricious VOA Capricious AIR are all the same Read their views and attitudes towards Burma and the Burmese People Read their news, bulletins, articles from August 1988 to March 1989 on the 1988 disturbances in full. Order your copies in advance. News And Periodicals Enterprise, 173-175 Pansodan Street, Rangoon. (WPD 4/5) WPD Slogans Beginning Apr. 7, the Working People's Daily began to run a political slogan across the bottom of each issue, gradually settling into a pattern of repeats, as follows: Apr. 7,11,23: Only correct news, facts and true wishes of the people are presented. Valuable news photos and educative articles on various subjects are also included. Apr. 8,20: Are you worried because of rumours? To know the truth, read the Working People's Daily. Apr. 9,22,30: Don't be confused. To get correct news of the latest situation, read the Working People's Daily. Apr. 10,21,29: Missing the Working People's Daily a day means missing an age. Read the Working People's Daily and keep yourself abreast of the news. Apr. 12,17,27: Only the people of Burma love Burma most. Love your motherland. Defend and protect her. Apr. 13,18,28: Love your nationality. Love your country. Preserve and uphold your culture. Apr. 14(?),24: Oppose those who disturb peace and tranquillity. Crush those who mar the rule of law. Apr. 15,25: Crush the disturbance-makers and instigators. Expose the rumour-mongers. Apr. 16,26: Expose those `pining for the aunt over and above the mother' [taking direction from foreigners] and those marring national identity. Combat those endangering the State and those bent on malevolence. Apr. 19: Anyone attempting to cause loss of independence is our enemy. We want no destructive elements within and without. Press Conferences Mar. 31: At the 33rd State LORC Press Conference, the Information Committee spokesman said: -- "First, we would like to clarify that we have abolished the one-party system...and are making efforts to systematically hold the multi-party democracy general election.... We will release the official news today to the effect that the socialist economic system has been abolished. The statement read: `The 1965 Law authorizing powers for establishment of the Socialist Economic System is hereby revoked by this law'.... Now in the administrative sector, there are no more councils.... We...are paving the way for the next government to be able to perform its duty smoothly." -- "There are those who are distributing agitative pamphlets to sow discord among the Tatmadawmen as well as between the people and the Tatmadaw.... Some political parties...have demanded that we meet with them for solving problems.... There are over 230 political parties and hence how can we find time to meet and give clarification to them?... Our Tatmadaw is not under the influence of any political parties.... We never take sides with any political party or meet with its members." -- "We want the students' organizations to mind their own business and not to get themselves involved with political parties. If they want to engage in politics, they should do so by leaving school and entering the political arena. If they are engaged in party politics under cover of students' organizations, we cannot regard them as students.... Although they have formed students' organizations under different names as Ba-ka-tha, Ma-ka-tha, Ya-ka-tha, OSUB, USDF, and ABSDF, they are nothing but the scapegoats of some political parties.... We cannot consider...ABSDF [All Burma Students' Democratic Front]...to be on the list of students' organizations.... We just warned Moe Thee Zun who published a leaflet demanding formation of an interim government." -- Some demand revokation of Order 2/88 and Declaration No. 8/88. We request parents and teachers to keep students from following the wrong path. -- Organizations that continue denouncing the Tatmadaw "will be making a mistake." -- We heard a rumour about disturbances in Yankin Twp. [Rgn] during the Armed Forces Day parade in which security forces opened fire, killing 4, wounding 4, and arresting 15. This is totally false. Security forces fired four shots to disperse "some persons who wanted to create disturbances [and] shouted anti-government slogans holding the flags bearing the fighting-peacock in their hands in Yankin Township," but "we didn't receive news that someone had been killed or injured." -- Every country has an Armed Forces Day, and ours has been Resistance Day since the Pha-hsa-pa-la Government in 1955. The Tatmadaw strategy is to prevent disintegration and serve the people. "What we mean by the word `people' is those who are honest, who abide by laws and rules and who want to live in peace. Those who are out to create disturbances are not `people.'" -- The Mawhpoke camp captured by the Army had been created by the KNU 40 years ago, and its fall "shocked the KNU." It was not only flanked by hills, but surrounded by 200 concrete bunkers, and 5 layers of barbed wire. The battle was "not fought from the Thai side. Neither did the Thais help us." "The KNU camps of Wanka and Melasa still remain." (WPD 4/1) Apr. 7: At the 34th State LORC Press Conference, the Information Committee spokesman said: -- "Most people and political parties are enjoying human rights peacefully within the framework of law," but "we will [not] tolerate...those...who instigate and try to cause disturbances." -- There are 23 armed students' battalions among the Mon, Karen, Karenni, Shan (SSA), Palaung, Pa-O, and Kachin insurgents, and in the Indian border areas, totalling about 1,800. If people "have contacts with the insurgents, we will regard them as insurgents." -- To oppose a colonial or fascist government was justified; to oppose "a government that is safeguarding...independence" is not. Martial law was necessary. There will be no coalition or interim government before elections. -- "Whether schools can be reopened depends on teachers, students and parents. If there is guarantee for peaceful pursuit of education, the government is ready to open schools." Discussions with Rectors and Professors were held on Mar. 28. Study groups have been formed at central, State/Division, and Township levels to discuss the feasibility of reopening schools. When schools are opened, they will be opened throughout the country. -- One third of April civil servant salaries will be paid in advance; this is equal to the whole former salary. There were false rumours that the Government could not afford to "give the new salary lumpsum." -- "Unscrupulous elements are distributing at top-secret level the Min-Yan-naing operation prevention project so as to create misunderstanding upon the Tatmadaw and the government. [Allegedly] Director of Defence Services Intelligence Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt would assume the leadership role and launch Min-yan-naing operation (a) Mino operation commencing from noon on 27 March to bring about disintegration of the above-ground political parties and organizations.... We would like to say that the Tatmadaw would not do such a mean and evil thing.... [This was done by a] letter entitled `All sorts of atrocious ideas of inhuman criminals', on a Defence Services Intelligence letterhead.... We do not know exactly which party has issued this Min-yan-naing operation prevention project.... We received those letters on 4 April.... This was deliberately designed to sow discord...." -- The Apr. 2 issue of the [Bangkok] The Nation, reported rumors that the Government had formed a Second Galon U Saw Group with 30 members in Tenasserim Division, to assassinate Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, General Secretary of the National League for Democracy. (Galon U Saw was hanged for the assassination of Bogyoke Aung San.) "The Tatmadaw and the Government never commit such nefarious things." -- The report on US naval vessels in the WPD "is true," but "we have the desire to `let amity be eternal, and enmity be ephemeral.'" [see Apr. 3-6 article on "Why the Tatmadaw had to take over all the powers of the State", above.] At the same time there were rumors that the Burma Navy and Airforce would attack government and party buildings in Rangoon and Mandalay. Pamphlets on the Min-yan-naing operation were distributed together with pamphlets bearing the seal of the Democracy Party (No. 1), though it does not mention the Party name. -- The Water Festival, like Armed Forces Day, does not violate State LORC Order No. 2/88 [against public gathering]. (WPD 4/8) Apr. 19: At the 35th State LORC Press Conference, the Information Committee spokesman said: -- The Burma Army on Apr. 18 captured the KNU Me-la headquarters base [see below under MILITARY for details]. -- Previously, the Army had captured the KNU Methawaw area (Dec. 22), Methaye headquarters (Jan. 19), and Mawhpoke headquarters (Mar. 26). -- The KNU on Jan. 11 issued a directive that the ABSDF [All Burma Students Democratic Front] could not exist separately from the KNU. Of its members, true revolutionaries were integrated into the KNU; those who did not wish to wage revolution were expelled from the KNU areas; those that wished to wage revolution separately are treated as enemies. -- As of Apr. 9, 2,946 students had returned home. "The Tatmadaw with magnanimity is welcoming and accepting the students even though they have joined the insurgents' battalions." The reception camps are still open, and students are urged to return and report to the nearest Tatmadaw camp, police station, or LORC office. "Failure to report violates the law. So we would like the returning youths to inform us about their arrival." -- The Democratic Alliance of Burma (DAB) was formed with KNU leader Nga Mya as its chairman, and the ABSDF placed under its control. -- The KIA is also "through narrow minded racism trying to establish a federal state." [In a headline to this story, WPD says "KIA insurgents who adhere to narrow-minded racialism are striving to set up a separate republic to be known as `Wampaung.'"] KIA leader Brang Seng arrivd at the KIA Iaisin camp on Jan. 11 and met with students. KIA Major Bawk Wa (a) La Maing Bawk "explained federal policy and autonomy," and threatened to kill a student who said he wanted to fight for democracy. -- Rumors are circulating that there will be no elections; that they will be rigged for the National Unity Party [No. 17, ex-BSPP]; that there are factions inside the LORC disputing about election; that the Elections Commission is at odds with the LORC and will soon quit. "All these rumours are false." -- Another rumor says U Ne Win and Dr. Maung Maung "are behind General Saw Maung." This is also false, "General Saw Maung is working freely in coordination with the State [LORC]. Nobody who is not a member of the Council has any say." -- The [National] Peace and Democracy Party [No. 12] has sent Thanmani Bo Khin Maung and former Minister U Sein Mya to the border areas. U Sein Mya absconded Jan. 22, through Htaukyant, when he found he was being investigated for connections with insurgents last October. He is now in the Mon insurgent areas, reportedly trying to contact Thanmani Bo Khin Maung and Dr. Tin Myint Oo. -- Some parties are spreading rumors that everything in the newspapers is false. "We are trying our best to report only correct news; we have been holding press conferences every Friday." -- A report on the BBC Apr. 12, and in Asiaweek Apr. 7, said Min Ko Naing was the leader of Makatha. This is not true. Min Ko Naing is chairman of Bakatha. -- It was said that the Government had arrested 200 students on Mar. 13 "at the place where the 1st Anniversary marking the death of Maung Phone Maw was held." Nobody was arrested "at the place where the ceremony was held," though "we unavoidably arrested four persons in the downtown Rangoon as they had violated the law." There are also rumors that "we had stopped those who went to the Inya Lake Bund [embankment] for laying wreaths on 16 March," and arrested 40. Only 9 persons were arrested that day. On Mar. 20 we had to arrest 10 people creating disturbances at the University of Rangoon Main Gate, and 4 others for inciting strikes. Therefore, the total number of persons arrested was 27, not 240. -- In a Mar. 13 article by Bertil Lintner in the Far Eastern Economic Review, it was said that we had only US$ 8,000,000 when we took over the State; that we had to make deals in timber and fisheries with neighboring states which earned only US$ 10,000,000; that we earned US$ 5,400,000 at the March Gems Emporium. In fact, we have obtained an advance deposit of US$ 17,000,000 in fishing licenses which "do not adversely affect the people," and may earn much more. Timber sales have been US$ 34,000,000. The Gems auction realized US$ 11,280,209. "And so they can be considered to be writing false news with the intention of inciting strikes so that our internal affairs be unstable." -- It is not true that service personnel will no longer be allowed to ride buses free, or that bus fares and gasoline prices will be raised. -- "As regards the throwing of water on the Burmese New Year Day, neither the State [LORC] nor the Tatmadaw has ever said to throw water." -- Most KNU weapons are American-made, bought on the black market. Over 60 students have returned from the students' regiments. "As we have already declared that we would consider these students who joined such students' organizations as ABSDF to be insurgents, we used the words `surrender.'" (WPD 4/20) Apr. 27: At the 36th State LORC Press Conference, the Information Committee spokesman said: -- A goodwill delegation headed by Commander-in-Chief (Army) Lt-Gen. Than Shwe will begin a 5-day visit to Thailand Apr. 28. [see below under BURMESE DELEGATIONS] -- Four groups of KNU insurgents, totalling 150-200 men, attacked Myawaddy [Karen] and set fire to houses Apr. 26, at the same time that 2 Tatmadaw platoons were pursuing 50 KNU insurgents outside the town. 50 82 mm rocket shells were fired from the eastern bank of Metawkale village, and 30 60 mm mortar shells from the south. 100 insurgents fired on Kyankhin and Kyuntaw south of Myawaddy, and another 50 crossed the creek from the east and attacked the checkpoint. 2 militia and 5 civilians were killed (including 1 Thai), and 4 soldiers and 5 civilians wounded. 88 houses in No. 1 Ward and 11 in No. 3 Ward, plus 15 shops and other buildings were burned down. 30 vehicles (14 trucks, 3 cars, 9 jeeps, 4 Hilux cars) and 28 motorcycles were damaged. Loss is estimated at K 50 million. Some of the insurgents fled in two buses towards Maesok in Thailand. -- Loans will be given to farmers as usual, at a rate not less than the previous per-acre rate. [see rate table under ECONOMIC, below] -- Clarifications are given only of rumors "which affect the feelings of the public and which cast doubts in their minds." Rumors are groundless which claim that school fees will be raised, that university tuition will be increased from K 30 per month to K 200 per month at Arts and Sciences Universities and K 300 at vocational institutes, that admission fees will be K 2,000 per year, and that K 1 will be charged every time a student enters the campus. -- The government is working on reopening schools "as early as possible." As explained by State LORC Secretary (1) on Apr. 24, a certain party leader said schools would reopen June 5-6, and the party would obstruct the teaching and incite strikes for July. -- It is true that the authorities arrested 11 people during Thingyan for shouting anti-government slogans; most were members of the National League for Democracy [No. 2]. -- It is not true that those who have served prison terms are re-arrested after being released. -- Between Sept. 18, 1988 and Apr. 18, 1989, 225 students were arrested in Rangoon and elsewhere; of these 42 have been released and 183 are still held. In the same period, 568 "locals" were arrested, of whom 30 were released and 538 are still in detention. -- On Apr. 24, Aung Din of the All Burma Students Union (Ba-Ka-Tha) was arrested, because he violated the law like Min Ko Naing. (WPD 4/28) Detainees Released Apr. 8: Youths arrested under Section 5(J) of the Emergency Provisions Act for creating disturbances have been released and sent home to their parents. 7 were released Apr. 3, 9 on Apr. 5, and 4 on Apr. 7. [names given] (WPD 4/10) Subversives Seized Apr. 9: On Apr. 8, Rangoon authorities arrested and searched two "suspicious looking youths" on West Shwegondine Road, Bahan Twp., and found anti-government and anti-Tatmadaw pamphlets. They had 100 sheets of paper headed Tawhlanthaw-kyaungtha-kyaungthu-myar-hnit pyithuludu tayatlon tho (to revolutionary students and the entire people) published by Pyipa-yauk democratic bama-kyaungthamyar tat-paung-su, 2 7-page booklets of poems called Shitlapyi aukmaybwe, another book of poems called Lubaungthit-hma hitkyway-than-myar, a paper called "meeting with the Chilean ambassador representing Pinochet" issued Mar. 10 by the Democracy Mahameik Aphwegyok, 5 books called Amyotha nyinyut-yay behmarle, nyinyut-yay ahyone-oo from the Lubaungthit Democratic Party, and a manuscript called amyotha democracy taw-hlanyay-ei mandaing phyitthaw amyotha nyinyut-yay-tho. The two youths were the Lubaungthit Democratic Party's Vice Chairman Thet Tun and and its financial committee member Kyi Myo. A case has been opened under Section 5(J) of the Emergency Provisions Act. (WPD 4/10) Party Misbehavior Apr. 24: Addressing State/ Division LORC Councils, State LORC Secretary 1 Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt said "a political party used the Thingyan festival as a pretext to create disturbances through Thingyan slogans blaming the Government and the Tatmadaw.... Action is taking against some." A political party is trying to obstruct the reopening of schools. At a meeting, a political leaders taid that if the schools open June 5-6, measures would be taken so that the students would not be able to study the prescribed textbooks and "demonstrations would be held by creating disturbances in July." Effective action will be taken if necessary. The Government is making arrangements to reopen schools as soon as possible, but it will not set a date. It depends on parents, students, and teachers. He reviewed the history of the disturbances and student misbehavior. (WPD 4/25) ELECTIONS Party Registrations & Changes Party registrations continue the format followed in October - March, including the keys to themes in Aims and Programmes (A&P). Registrations, changes in Party officials, deregistrations, etc., are included in a single numerical list. New Party registrations closed Feb. 28, 1989. (125) United Democratic Front (UDF). Dissolved Apr. 3, 1989; de-registered Apr. 3, 1989. (WPD 4/4) (146) Peasants & Workers League for Democratic New-Construction (Union of Burma). Dissolved Mar. 31, l989; deregistered Mar. 31, 1989. (WPD 4/2) (148) Burma's League for Liberal Evolution. Dissolved Apr. 27, 1989; deregistered Apr. 27, 1989. (WPD 4/28) (197) Federal Democratic Party. A&P:I. (WPD 4/13) (224) Union for Revival and Development of Democracy (URDD). A&P: I. (WPD 4/4) (225) National Unity and New Youth Party (NUNP). A&P:I,II,6,ii, iv. (WPD 4/4) (226) Unification and Reinforcement Front (URF). A&P:I,VI,1,e. (WPD 4/1) (227) People's Revolution Party. A&P:I,II,III,IV,VII,1,b,ii. (WPD 4/6) (228) Union of Burma (Main) Peasant Organization (Hqrs). A&P:I,1,2, 3. (WPD 4/6) (229) Union of Burma (Main) Labour Organization (Headquarters) [aka Union of Burma Workers Central Headquarters]. A&P:I,II,1. (WPD 4/15) (230) Chin National Young Men's Organization. A&P:I,II,VII,e. (WPD 4/16) (231) Congress (D) Party (Burma) [aka Nagani Party (Burma)]. A&P:I, VI,VII,4,b,viii. (WPD 4/16) (232) Leading Strenth of National Realism Centre. A&P:1,realism. (WPD 4/15) (233) Democratic Allies' League. A&P:I,II,III,VI,4,5,b,ii,iv,v. (WPD 4/17) (234) Union Democracy Unity Organization (UDUO). A&P:I,2,3,5,b,ii, v. (WPD 4/2) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls, not otherwise reported, were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Ambassadors or UN officials accredited to Burma. Mar. 29: Israeli Ambassador Menashe Zipori on the Multi-party Democracy General Election Commission. Chilian Ambassador Rear-Adm. Sergio Cabezas on Minister for Livestock & Fisheries and for Agriculture and Forests Maj-Gen. Chit Swe. Mar. 31: Yugoslav Ambassador Branko Vuletic on Minister for Mines and for Energy Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, to discuss mining cooperation. (WPD 4/1) Apr. 3: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin bin Abdullah on Minister for Industry 1 and 2 Maj-Gen. Sein Aung. Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Ohtaka on Minister for Livestock and Fisheries and for Agriculture & Forests Maj-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 4/4) Apr. 4: Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Ohtaka on Minster for Industry 1 and 2 Maj-Gen. Sein Aung. (WPD 4/5) Apr. 6: Singapore Charge d'Affaires Lam Peck Heng on State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 4/7) Apr. 11: Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng and Japanese Ambassador Hiroshi Ohtaka on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Col. Abel. (WPD 4/12) Apr. 20: Nepalese Ambassador Dr. Dibya Deo Bhatt on Minister for Home and Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Maj-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 4/21) Apr. 25: Australian Ambassador Christopher Lamb on Maj-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 4/26) Apr. 27: Chinese Ambassador Cheng Ruisheng on Minister for Industry 1 and 2 Maj-Gen. Seing Aung. Laotian Ambassador Chanpheng Sihaphom on State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt, on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Col. Abel, and on the Election Commission. (WPD 4/28) Ambassador to Britain Mar. 30: The LORC Chairman named U Tin Hlaing as Burmese Ambassador to Great Britain. (WPD 3/30) Ambassador to Finland Mar. 30: U Tin Tun presented credentials as Burmese Ambassador to Finland on Mar. 23. (WPD 3/30) Ambassador to China Apr. 11: U Tin Aung Tun presented credentials as Burmese Ambassador to China on Apr. 7. (WPD 4/11) Relations with Peru Set Apr. 17: Burma and Peru have established diplomatic relations at the Ambassadorial level, effective Apr. 17, 1989. (WPD 4/17) Ambassador to Korea Apr. 20: U Aye Kyin, Burmese Ambassador to Korea, presented credentials in Seoul on Apr. 18. (WPD 4/20) Laos Ambassador Arrives Apr. 20: Laotian Ambassaor Chanpheng Sihaphom presented his credentials to State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung. (WPD 4/21) New Ambassador to UN Apr. 21: State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung has named U Kyaw Min, Director-General, International Law and Treaties and Research Department, Foreign Ministry, to be Burmese Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York. (WPD 4/21) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Chinese Books Apr. 11: The Chinese Government presented 500 Chinese-language books and a Chinese-language typewriter to the Ministry of Education. (WPD 4/12) Rangoon-Syriam Bridge Apr. 25: Minister for Construction and for Co-operatives Brig-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw inspected the Rangoon-Syriam Bridge project, and was briefed on damage during the disturbances and the repair of the Chinese technicians' houses. He met with Deputy Leader of the Chinese technicians, Mr. Yan Tong Chun, who said construction work would resume as soon as the remaining Chinese technicians return. (WPD 4/26) FOREIGN VISITORS Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Apr. 11: A delegation headed by Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Prapas Limpabandhu, including 23 representatives of the Thai Foreign Ministry, 18 representatives of other Ministries, and 15 journalists, arrived in Rangoon. At 11 am he met with the Burmese Foreign Ministry Political Department Director-General U Ohn Gyaw; at 2 pm with Minister for Energy and for Mines Rear-Adm. Maung Maung Khin; at 3 pm with Minister for Agriculture & Forests and for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Maj-Gen. Chit Swe; and 4 pm with the Election Commission. The Thai official told the latter that in Thailand political parties must have 5,000 members to register, and must stand for election in half the contested constituencies. Only parties may contest elections, not individuals. (WPD 4/12) Apr. 12: The Thai Deputy Prime Minister met with LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung, and signed the Burma-Thai Trade Agreement. (WPD 4/13) Foreign Journalists Apr. 19: The Election Commission met with foreign journalists Mark Baker of the Melbourne Herald, Bertil Lintner of the Far Eastern Economic Review, and Terry McCarthy of the London Independent. Suggestions on the Draft Election Law are being considered. There are about 22,000,000 eligible voters. (WPD 4/20) Australian Diplomat Apr. 21: Mr. Charles Stuart, Director of Burma and Philippine Affairs Division, Australian Foreign Ministry, called on the Election Commission, and offered Australian assistance for the general elections. (WPD 4/22) Australian War Graves Apr. 28. Mr. Alfred Clark, Director of the War Graves Commission of Australia, called on War Veterans Organization Vice Chairman Maj-Gen. Ko Gyi (ret'd), and Secretary Maj-Gen. Tuang Za Khai (ret'd). (WPD 4/29) BURMESE DELEGATIONS Dr. Pe Thein to China Mar. 29: Minister for Health and for Education Dr. Pe Thein left for China at the head of a delegation to study health and education activities. (WPD 3/30) // Apr. 11: The delegation returned. (WPD 4/12) Red Cross Delegation Returns Apr. 6: The Burma Red Cross delegation that attended the World Assembly of Youth in New Delhi, India, returned home. (WPD 4/7) Col. Abel in China Apr. 22: Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Col. Abel returned to Rangoon after attending the 65th Spring Fair in Guangzhou, China. (WPD 4/23) Army Leader Visits Thailand Apr. 28: Commander-in-Chief (Army) Lt-Gen. Than Shwe left for Thailand at the head of a 32-member goodwill delegation, invited by Thai Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh. Other delegation members include: Maj-Gen. Chit Swe, Commander of the No. 2 Special Operations; Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Director of Defence Services Intelligence; Brig-Gen. Maung Aye, Commander of the Eastern Command; Col. Abel, Director of Defence Services Procurement; Col. Thein Han, Commander of No. 88 Light Infantry Division; Capt. Than Nyunt, Chief of Staff (Navy); Col. Thein Win, Chief of Staff (Air). (WPD 4/29) BURMA GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The State LORC appointed on probation: Apr. 26: U Kan Gyi, Director, Myanma Gems Enterprise, Ministry of Mines, to be Director-General, Myanma Salt and Marine Chemical Enterprise, same Ministry. Lt-Col. Than Htut (BC 8256), Commanding Officer, Central Signals Regiment, Ministry of Defence, to be Director-General, Information and Broadcasting Department, Ministry of Information. U Toe Kyi, General Manager, Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Trade, to be Managing Director, same Enterprise. U Hla Tin, General Manager, Myanma Department Stores, Ministry of Trade, to be Managing Director, same Enterprise. (WPD 4/27) Appointments The State LORC has transferred and appointed: Apr. 13: U Aung Hlaing, Director, Myanma Petroleum Products Enterprise, Ministry of Energy, to be Managing Director of the same. (WPD 4/13) Apr. 26: U Win Maung, Managing Director, Myanma Salt and Marine Chemical Enterprise, Ministry of Mines, to be Managing Director, Myanma Pearl Enterprise, same Ministry. U Aung Kyi, Managing Director, Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, Ministry of Trade, to be Managing Director, General Merchandise Trading, same Ministry. (WPD 4/27) GOVERNMENT State Enterprises Law Mar. 31: State LORC Law No. 9/89 of Mar. 31, 1989, the State-owned Economic Enterprises Law, repeals the "Law conferring powers for Establishing the Socialist Economic System, 1965" and outlines the scope of State economic enterprises [full text on request--HCMacD]: The Government has the sole right to carry on economic enterprises in these areas: (a) extraction, sale, and export of teak; (b) forest cultivation and conservation (except village-owned fire-wood plantations); (c) exploration, extraction, and sale of petroleum and natural gas and their products; (d) exploration, extraction, and export of pearls, jade and precious stones; (e) Government research fisheries production fish and prawns; (f) postal and telecommunications services; (g) Air and Railway transport services; (h) Banking and Insurance services; (i) Broadcasting and Television services; (j) exploration, extraction, and export of metals; (k) Electricity Generation services (except as permitted for private and co-operative enterprises); (l) manufacture of products "relating to security and defence" as notified from time to time by the Government. The government may permit any of the above to be carried out by joint-venture between the government and any other person, and may control products produced by the above. Any person may carry out any economic enterprise other than those restricted to the government, and the government may carry out enterprises in other areas if it deems necessary. The government may constitute state economic enterprises, and re-constitute existing ones, and such enterprises shall be perpetual legal entities. Anyone illegally carrying out economic activities reserved to the state is subject to 5 years imprisonment and a fine, and confiscation of his enterprise; anyone violating an order regarding state enterprises or products is subject to 3 years imprisonment and a fine. "The Law conferring powers for Establishing the Socialist Economic System, 1965 is hereby repealed." (WPD 4/1) Income Tax Rates Mar. 29: Cont. Income tax rates are set as follows: Kyats Percent Salary: 1 to 5,000 3 % 5,001 to 10,000 7 % 10,001 to 20,000 10 % 20,001 to 35,000 15 % 35,001 to 50,000 20 % 50,001 to 75,000 25 % 75,001 and above 30 % Professional, business, and other income: 1 to 5,000 3 % 5,001 to 10,000 10 % 10,001 to 15,000 15 % 15,001 to 20,000 20 % 20,001 to 30,000 25 % 30,001 to 40,000 30 % 40,001 to 50,000 35 % 50,001 to 70,000 40 % 70,001 to 100,000 45 % 100,001 to 150,000 48 % 150,001 and above 50 % Non-resident citizens: 10% on total income accrued abroad before any Section 6 relief allowed. Foreigners in approved State enterprises, etc.: 20% of total income before any Section 6 relief allowed. Approved associations in a foreign country, etc.: 30% of total income before any Section 6 relief allowed. Companies established in Burma: 30% of total income before any Section 6 relief allowed. Non-resident foreigners, etc.: 35% of total income (unless higher under table) before any Section 6 relief allowed. Co-operative Society income: [same as for salaries] State Economic Enterprises: 30% of total income before any Section 6 relief allowed. Capital Gains: 10% (40% for non-resident foreigners) before any Section 6 relief allowed. Foreign Investment Law Companies: 30% of total income before any Section 6 relief allowed. Exemptions: No tax shall be paid on a total income of under K 15,000 in the private sector, or on a total income of under K 10,000 in the private and co-operative sector. Capital asset transfers shall not be taxed if the annual total is under K 50,000. Special calculations may be provided for incomes close to these limits. [full text available on request--HCMacD.] (WPD 3/30) Merchant Marine Act Apr. 1: The State LORC Law No. 10/89 of Apr. 1, l989, the Law Amending the Burma Merchant Shipping Act, amends Sect. 25(1)-(2) to provide that no one shall hire or supply a seaman or employ anyone to hire or supply a seaman, unless that person is licensed. Subsection (4) is amended to increase the amount from K 100 to K 10,000. Section 26(2) increases the penalty to 3 years imprisonment and K 50,000 fine, plus loss of license. (WPD 4/1) Cemetery Registration Apr. 1: There are about 100 cemeteries in Rangoon. The Rangoon Cleansing Division has called on all cemetery administrators to present documents as to their land deeds, lists of burials, squatters living illegally in the cemeteries, service personnel living in the cemeteries, history, rules and procedures, photographs, lists of administrators, and a financial statement. Reporting dates are: Apr. 20-21 (Muslim cemeteries); Apr. 24-25 (Hindu); Apr. 26-27 (Chinese); Apr. 28 (Christian); May 1-3 (other religions); May 4-5 (Burmese). (WPD 4/2) Foreign Fishing Boats Law Apr. 2: State LORC Law No. 11/89 of Apr. 2, 1989, the Law relating to the Fishing Rights of Foreign Fishing Vessels, provides the procedure for the licensing and regulation of foreign fishing boats in Burmese waters and the exclusive economic zone established by Sec. 20 of the Territorial Sea and Maritime Zones Law. [Text on request--HCMacD.] (WPD 4/3) New Supreme Court Justice Apr. 11: State LORC Order No. 1/89 of Apr. 11 provides [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council has appointed Supreme Court Justice U Khin Maung Aye as Deputy Attorney-General and Deputy Attorney-General U Kyaw Win as Supreme Court Justice. By Order, Sd/Kyin Nyunt, Brigadier-General, Secretary (2), State Law and Order Restoration Council. (WPD 4/12) Flag Rules Changed Apr. 27: State LORC Rules No. 2/89 of Apr. 27, 1989, the Rules Amending the State Flag Rules, replaces Rule 4(c) with the following: "The State Flag may be flown on all working days at office buildings of Government organizations, mills, factories and schools and at places where ceremonies are held." (WPD 4/28) TV-Video Law Amended Apr. 27: State LORC Law No. 12/89 of Apr. 27, 1989, the Law Amending the Television and Video Law, deletes the expression in Section 43(a). (WPD 4/28) MILITARY Donations to Tatmadaw Periodic lists continued of persons making donations of cash to the "Tatmadawmen who are serving in various front areas." Ne Win Visits Exhibit Apr. 2: Union of Burma War Veterans Organization Patron General Ne Win (Retired) visited the 44th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Exhibition at Tatmadaw Hall. He was welcomed and shown round by Defence Services Commander-in-Chief and State LORC Chairman Gen. Saw Maung, State LORC Secretary (1) Brig-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Rangoon Commander Brig-Gen. Myo Nyunt, and Officer-in-Charge of the Defence Services Historical Research Institute Comm. Hla Shein (BN). [Full page article, p. 1, with photos.] (WPD 4/3) Insurgent Attacks Apr. 3: 30 KNU insurgents on Mar. 30 stopped and robbed 6 motorcycles between Myawaddy Thingannyinaung and Kawkareik; one person was killed. (WPD 4/4) Apr. 10: 50 KNU insurgents headed by Bo Hpa Khe fired 20 rounds of 60 mm mortars from Shwego Mountain into Kya-in-Seikkyi [Karen] on Apr. 8; nobody was hurt. (WPD 4/12) Apr. 17: KNU insurgents on Apr. 13 entered Thaman village, Thaton Twp. [Mon] robbed two homes and wounded two people. (WPD 4/18) Apr. 23: KNU insurgents on Apr. 22 killed 2 passengers and wounded 8, including a monk and 2 children, in a Rangoon to Pa-an bus at Layin Lawseik village. (WPD 4/24) Apr. 26: KNU insurgents on Apr. 21 entered a farm between Kawhtamalein and Kawasu villages, Pa-an Twp. [Karen] and killed U Po Kyaing "for no apparent reason." A gang of KNU insurgents on Apr. 24 attacked and robbed a Kya-in-Seikkyi to Moulmein bus between Phabaundtaung and Ngapyema villages, wounding a monk, 3 men, and 1 woman. (WPD 4/27) Apr. 29: KNU insurgents on Apr. 21 entered Kyondo village and robbed a home of K 70,000 in jewellery; at the same time, another KNU group fired 5 60 mm mortar shells at it. On Apr. 28, KNU insurgents fired 7 2.75 rockets into Pa-an [Karen] from a mountain 8,000 yards east of the town, killing a child and wounding 4 people. (WPD 4/30) Insurgents Surrender Apr. 6: Between Mar. 4-29, 18 insurgents surrendered with their arms. [names and details] (WPD 4/7) Apr. 18: 4 KNU insurgents, sent Apr. 8 to Bilin to destroy the Thanbyuchaung bridge in Kyaikto Twp. [Mon] "realized their atrocious acts and so they returned to the legal fold" on Apr. 11-13, bringing their arms and explosives with them. (WPD 4/19) KNU Saboteur Seized Apr. 11: A KNU saboteur sent to blow up 3 rice mills in Taungsun village was captured Apr. 9 in Hninpale village, Bilin Twp. [Mon], with fuses, and detonators. He joined the KNU insurgents in Ma-na-plaw camp in February and attended a 5-day demolition course before being assigned the rank of Major. (WPD 4/13) KNU Me-la Camp Captured Apr. 19: At the Apr. 19 Press Conference it was announced that the Burma Army 33rd Light Infantry Division on Apr. 18 captured the Me-la base, headquarters of the No. 7 brigade of Commander Htein Maung defended by 1,000 troops from the Nos. 2, 3, 6, and 7 KNU brigades. First the Army on Feb. 18 attacked the forward positions on Bun Hill, Banyan Hill, Johnny Hill, and Old Me-la; the Paungmokgon was temporarily captured that day. On Feb. 20, Paungmokgon was re-captured, while the enemy regrouped with the forces of the previously captured Methawaw, Methaye, and Mawhpoke camps. On Apr. 5, the Old Me-la camp was captured; on Apr. 12 the Johnny Hill, Banyan Hill, and Point 700 Hill fell. Finally, a three-pronged movement on Apr. 18 captured the main Me-la base. There were 66 major battles and 427 skirmishes between Feb.18 and Apr. 18. Tatmadaw losses were 177 killed and 377 wounded. Of the enemy, 466 were "caught dead", out of over 600 killed. 42 weapons were captured including a 57mm recoilless gun and two 3.5 launchers [details of captured equipment given]. "We have broken the morale and prestige of the KNU insurgents as the Tatmadaw has successfully occupied the insurgents' best and strongest camp." [maps] (WPD 4/20) BCP Headquarters Captured Apr. 22 [text]: The forces made up of persons from national racial groups in the BCP insurgent groups could not bear the domination of the BCP in their political, military and economic affairs and the conflict between them grew. The national racial group forces then captured Pansang, the central headquarters of the BCP, and Mongkoe, the northern central branch headquarters of the BCP. (WPD 4/23) ECONOMIC Company Registrations Mar. 31: During March, the Companies Registration Office registered the following [addresses available on request--HCMacD]: Companies: Asia Company Ltd., Rangoon; Salween Exporting Works Company, Ltd., Rgn; Golden Global Group, Ltd., Rgn; Irrawaddy Agency Works Co., Ltd., Rgn; Chindwin Importing Works Co., Ltd., Rgn; Naing Yadana Co., Ltd., Rgn; Technical Services & Tools Co., Ltd., Rgn. Firms: Khemarat Enterprises, Rgn; Yatana Trading Co, Rgn; Daw Win Maw Htun & Bros., Hide & Leather Trading, Kyaukpadaung [Mandalay]; Shan Yoma Trading Co., Rgn; "Aung" Hide & Leather Trading, Rgn; BURCONSULT, Rgn; Tharaphu Hide & Leather Trading, Rgn; Lapyeetwinn Trading, Rgn; U Khin Mg San & Bros., "Three Diamond" Family Leather Trading, Wundwin [Mdy]; U Tun Win & Bros., "A" Brand Leather Trading, Magwe; Moe Family Leather Trading, Myingyan [Mdy]; Irrawaddy Trading Enterprises, Rgn; U Su La Man & Sons, Family Hide & Leather Trading, Magwe; AUNG Setkya Co., Rgn; Than Tun & Sons, Leather Trading, Rgn; Khin Aung Toe Marine Products Trading, Moulmeingyun [Irrawaddy]; U Htay Thein & Bros., Marine Products Trading, Pa-an [Karen]; Messrs, Myanma Industrial Co., Rgn. Since Jan. 1, 21 limited companies and 31 firms have been registered. Branch Offices: Samsung Co., Ltd. [Korea] and Mitsui & Co., Ltd. [Japan] are permitted to open branch offices in Burma. (WPD 4/1) Economic Agencies Renamed Apr. 1: The names of State Economic Organizations are changed, effective Apr. 1, 1989, as follows: [NOTE: Burmese-language changes included in article, and available on request.--HCMacD.] Agriculture & Forests Agriculture Corporation to Myanma Agriculture Service Timber Corporation to Myanma Timber Enterprise Livestock & Fisheries Fisheries Corporation to Myanma Fisheries Enterprise Livestock Breeding Corporation to Livestock Feedstuff and Milk Products Enterprise Mines Nos. (1)-(3) Mining Corporations to Nos. (1)-(3) Mining Enterprises Myanma Gems Corporation to Myanma Gems Enterprise Myanma Pearl Corporation to Myanma Pearl Enterprise Salt Industries Corporation to Myanma Salt and Marine Chemical Enterprise Industry No. 1 Textile Industries Corporation to Myanma Textile Industries Foodstuff Industries Corporation to Myanma Foodstuff Industries Pharmaceutical Industries Corporation to Myanma Pharmaceutical Industries Metal Industries Corporation to Myanma Metal Industries General Industries Corporation to Myanma General Industries Jute Industries Corporation to Myanma Jute Industries Paper & Chemical Industries Corporation to Myanma Paper & Chemical Industries Industries No. 2 Technical Services Corporation to Technical Services Heavy Industries Corporation to Myanma Heavy Industries Energy Electric Power Corporation to Myanma Electric Power Enterprise Myanma Oil Corporation to Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise Petrochemical Industries Corporation to Myanma Petrochemical Enterprise Petroleum Products Supply Corporation to Myanma Petroleum Products Enterprise Construction Construction Corporation to Public Works Transport Road Transport Corporation to Road Transport Inland Water Transport Corporation to Inland Water Transport Burma Airways Corporation to Myanma Airways Burma Railway Corporation to Myanma Railways Burma Ports Corporation to Myanma Port Authority Burma Dockyards Corporation to Myanma Dockyards Burma Five Star Shipping Corporation to Myanma Five Star Lines Posts and Telecommunications Corporation to Myanma Posts and Telecommunications Culture Printing and Publishing Corporation to Printing and Publishing Enterprise News and Periodicals Corporation to News and Periodical Enterprise Motion Picture Corporation to Motion Picture Enterprise Trade Agriculture and Farm Produce Trade Corporation to Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading Foodstuff and General Merchandise Trade Corporation to General Merchandise Trading Restaurant and Beverage Trade Corporation to Restaurant and Beverage Enterprise Department Stores Corporation to Myanma Department Stores Paper, Stationery, Printed Matter and Photographic Stores Trade Corporation to Stationery, Printing and Photographic Stores Trading Medicines and Medical Stores Trade Corporation to Medicines and Medical Equipment Trading Vehicle and Machinery Stores Trade Corporation to Vehicles, Machinery and Equipment Trading Construction and Electrical Stores Trade Corporation to Construction and Electrical Stores Trading Hotel and Tourist Corporation to Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services Inspection and Agency Corporation to Inspection and Agency Services Myanma Export Import Corporation to Myanma Export and Import Services Planning & Finance Union of Burma Bank -- unchanged Myanma Economic Bank -- unchanged Myanma Foreign Trade Bank -- unchanged Myanma Agricultural Bank -- unchanged Myanma Insurance Corporation to Myanma Insurance (WPD 4/1) Salary Advance Apr. 5: Ministry of Planning & Finance Notification of Apr. 5, 1989, provides that Government service personnel may draw 1/3 of their April salary in advance (beginning Apr. 8-10), so as "to contribute donations during the Thingyan period." [Table of amounts]. (WPD 4/6) Economic Articles Series of feature articles on various aspects of the economy: Apr. 1: Fish and prawns for the people, by Than Myint. [Cont. (4) Pantanaw Twp. [Irrawaddy] fisheries.] Apr. 1: We are proud of Burma's valuable gems, by Hla Thein Aung. [Cont. (3) statistics from Gems Emporium.] Apr. 2,7,29: Gratitude expressed by workers for increasing pay scale, by Win Htay. [Cont. (2)-(4) Expressions of gratitude by happy civil servants.] Apr. 6,10,11: Timber trade earning foreign exchange, by Sein Aung Myint and Than Htoo Kyi. [(1)-(3) Visit to Ponpakyin border timber trade, Mong Tong Twp., Shan State.] Apr. 8: "Golden Teak", treasure of the country, by Sein Aung Myint. [Cont. (5) Myanma Timber Enterprise Saw Mill No. 1, Kemmendine [Rgn].] Apr. 9: A wonderful surprise, by Sagaing Min Aung. [Government workers happy with pay increase.] Apr. 10,19,21,22,27: Forest conservation work, by Ye Myint Pe. [(1) Conservation in Pyinmana Twp. [Pegu], in the Ngalaik Dam watershed; (2) "Pilot Watershed Management for Kinda Dam Project implemented in securing sustained productivity of forest lands"--Kalaw and Aungban; (3) "Nursery work of Min Taing Bin Base Camp plays an important role in establishing plantations"-- Myinwun camp and Theingon Dam; (4) Terrace cultivation made possible by Layywa Dam, Double-cropping in place of shifting cultivation"; (5) "Terraces and contour bunding not sufficient for soil conservation"-- Pilot Watershed Management for Kinda Dam Project.] Apr. 10: New pay scale reflects Government `cetana', by Khin Thi. [More interviews with happy civil servants.] Apr. 10-12: Htanbinchaung salt industries, by Than Set. [(1)-(3) Salt industry in Paung Twp., Mon State.] Apr. 11: Going on a tour of Pegu Division, by Myint Lwin. [Cont. (3) A visit to Zeyawaddy Sugar Mill).] Apr. 12: Burma-Thai Border Trade, by Ko Ye and Kyaw Win. [(1) Lupphawyei Plan & Nam Tun Timber Extraction Camp.] Apr. 13: Workers rejoice at Government's `Cetana', by Sagain Min Aung. [More happy civil servants.] Apr. 15,18: New era of communication service, by Ye Nyunt. [(1) Postal service--24 hour delivery in Rangoon; (2) post office operations.] Apr. 17,18: Rangoon-Prome Highway extension project, by Soe Myint. [Progress of 158 mile project between Htaukkyant and Prome.] Apr. 22,28: Hlaing River Bridge, by Ohn Kyaing and Soe Myint. [(1) "The six bridges cost K 41.48 million, K 23.28 million provided by Swiss Government"--[map]; (2) "The bridge that contributes towards development"--Rangoon Division population increasing 2.3% per year in Rangoon City Development Committee (RCDC) area and 4.15% outside, and will reach 5,601,000 in 1997. Settlement in 11 townships outside the RCDC area is needed, plus new jobs, housing projects, and building renovation. The Hlaing Bridge will enable the City to expand to a circular shape, by crossing the present natural barrier. Hlaingthaya satellite town is being built on 10,000 acres on the other side, opposite Insein; 20,000 people have been allotted 4,000 homes on 1,365 acres.] Apr. 26,27: Tenasserim Division fishery work, by Tun Aung. [Fisheries, border trade, foreign licencees, trawling.] Apr. 29: Pugyi Water Supply Project for sufficient water supply in Rangoon, by Tun Myat. [Rangoon uses 54 million gallons a day, coming from Gyobyu Reservoir (19-27 m. gal.), Hlawga Reservoir (12-16), and tube-wells (10-14). Demand will rise to 101 m. gal. by 1990, and Pugyi will provide an average of 54 m. gal. Other statistics given.] Fish Factories Restored Apr. 8: Myanma Fisheries Enterprise facilities "looted and destroyed by unsavoury persons during the disturbances" have been restored; damage was K 72,440,000. The Ahlone Cold Storage Factory No. 1 resumed operation Nov. 1, 1988; Cold Storage Factories No. 4 and 6 on Dec. 15; the Gyaungwaing bank of Kemmendine docking activities on Nov. 1; the Shawlon Dock on Dec. 15. 38 of the 47 vessels destroyed at the Gyaungwaing Dockyard have been repaired. The Thaketa canning factory resumed activities Dec. 15, 1988, and the Ngamok factory on Mar. 20, 1989. (WPD 4/9) Importers, etc., Registered Apr. 11: Import-Export Work Registration Office Press Release No. 5 of Apr. 11, 1989, lists 30 individuals registered as exporters and 7 as importers. Press Release No. 6 of Apr. 11, 1989, lists 7 businessmen registered as commission representatives. [details on request--HCMacD.] TV & VCR Regulations Apr. 20: The Post and Telecommunications Department announced that when television sets or video decks are sold or transferred: (1) the transfer must be documented; (2) the transfer does not include the licence; (3) recipients must obtain licenses within 30 days, and produce the transfer documents; (4) dealers must license sets in their own names; (5) this applies to each transfer, and the final recipient must have a license in his own name; (6) if the owner dies or leaves the country, the recipient must show documentary proofs and take out new licenses. Violators will be prosecuted. (WPD 4/21) Joint Venture Company Apr. 26: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 1/89 of Apr. 26, 1989, on Formation of the Union of Burma Joint Venture Corporation (No. 1) Limited, provides for a Corporation with 7 public members [named] plus the Managing Directors of Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading, General Merchandise Trading, and Myanma Department Stores. The Capital is K 50,000,000, in 50,000 shares of K 1,000, divided into Government (A) and public (B) shares. Anyone can buy shares up to K 100,000, and become eligible to be elected a Director. (WPD 4/27) Agricultural Loan Rates Apr. 27: Ministry of Planning and Finance Press Release on Fixing of rates of agricultural loans, sets present and future (1989-90) per acre rates for cultivation loans as follows: Paddy (High yield special) 160-200; Paddy (High-yield ordinary) 120-170; Paddy (ordinary) 70-100; Potato 90-90; Onion 75-75; Garlic 100-100; Indigenous medicine 50-50; Chilli 50-50; Corn seeds 30-30; Matpe 35-70; Butter bean 35-70; Pe-boke 35-35; Pe-yeza 35-35; Sadaw-pe 30-30; Pedi-sein 20-70; Pe-lun 20-20; Bo-kate 20-20; Suntani 20-70; Suntapya 20-70; Pe-gyi 20-20; Pe-kya 20-20; Pezin-ngon 20-70; Pe-yin 20-20; Gram 20-70; Pe-nauk 20-20; Pe-phya-lay 20-20; Sesamum 45-45; Groundnut 200-200; Sunflower 70-70; Mustard seed 50-50; Wheat 50-50; Cotton (Long-staple) 160-160; Cotton (Mahlaing) 60-60; Cotton (Wa-gyi) 60-60; Cotton (Wa-galay) 30-30; Jute 0-160; Sugarcane 0-200; Virginia tobacco 0-100; Millet 0-30. (WPD 4/28) 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 Apr. 1 0.51 0.08 0.35 Apr. 15 0.51 0.08 0.35 Apr. 30 0.51 0.08 0.35 HEALTH Indigenous Medicine Papers Apr. 27: 78 research papers on indigenous medicine are being read at a paper-reading session at the Ministry of Health, Apr. 27-30. An opening speech was given by Thamardawgyi U Kyaw, Chairman of the Union of Burma Indigenous Medicine Practitioners' Association. (WPD 4/28) Apr. 28: 8 research papers on applying indigenous medicine to animals were read at the Ministry of Livestock Breeding & Fisheries. (WPD 4/29) SPORTS Delegation to China Apr. 26: A Burmese sports delegation left for China under the bilateral sports exchange program. It includes Director-General of the Sports and Physical Education Department U Aung Din, Deputy Director Maj. Maung Win, Capt. Than Tun of the Ministry of Defence, and Personnel Assistant Capt. Tin Pe. (WPD 4/27) CULTURAL Holidays Set Mar. 29: The Department of Fine Arts announced that Thingyan would fall on 8th Waxing Day of Hnaung Tagu, 1350 BE (Apr. 13, 1989) and New Year's Day on 12th Waxing Day of Oo Tagu, 1351 BE (Apr. 17, 1989). The First (Purima) Waso will fall on the 1st Waning Day of Waso, 1351 BE (July 18, 1989), and the Second (Pyitsima) Waso on the 1st Waning Day of Wagaung, 1351 BE (Aug. 17, 1989). (WPD 3/30) Religious Examinations Apr. 1: The Dhammacariya and Pathamabyan examinations are being held in Mandalay, with over 600 Sangha members sitting for the first and over 2,500 for the second. (WPD 4/2) Burmese Literature Miscellaneous articles and series on Burmese literature: Apr. 2,9,16,23,30: Philosophical Burmese Poems, by Htila Sitthu. [Poems and commentary: (1) Ne Thwe Ni (b. 1930), Tekkatho Min Maw (b. 1935) & Min Thuwun (b. 1909); (2) Dagon Taya, Ngwe Tar Yi, & Htila Sitthu (b. 1932); (3) Zawgyi (b. 1907), Min Thuwun, William E. Henley (1849-1903); (4) Daung Nwai Swe (1931-85) & Htila Sitthu; (5) Htila Sitthu & Daung Nwai Swe.] Apr. 16: An 18th century new year letter of an Intha poet, by Daqw Khin Nyunt (Inle). [About a poem of U Htin Gyi, written in 1786.] Apr. 30: The word "sarpe" of Burmese language, by Thein Than Tun. [Etymology and significance.] Konbaung Period Writers [Because of space limitations, we are greatly condensing our summaries of this extensive series by Aung Moe, restricting them to titles and the names, dates, and major areas of the writers discussed. We can provide full copies of the articles, at cost, on request. HCMacD.] Apr. 2: (No. 51) The three novelists. James Hla Gyaw (1866-1920) wrote the famous Maung Yin Maung Ma Mai Ma, an adaptation of Dumas' "The Count of Monte Cristo" in 1901, and two unpublished novels, Ko Myo Ok, and Nauk Lin. U Latt (1866-1921) wrote Sabaibin in 1911, which was often reprinted, and Shwe Pyi Soe in 1914. A serial story, Thon Bon, was never completed. Philip Monin (aka Maung Kyaw Nyun and Moe Hnin (Misty)) (1883-1940) wrote numerous short stories, magazine articles, and movies. (WPD 4/2) Apr. 10,17: (Nos. 52,53) King Thibaw's Sayadaws. Taung Daw Sayadaw Shin Marlar (1818-94) taught Prince Thibaw, and in 1882 was named Thathanabaing, a function he retained after Thibaw's fall in 1885. Pakhan Sayadaw Shin Nanda (1820-98) was chosen Thathanabaing in 1895, but was not recognized by the British. The Second Myobyingyi Sayadaw (1827-1901) wrote 13 scriptural works. Modha Sayadaw Shin Thuzata (1830-1902) was chosen Thathanabaing in 1901, but died before being invested. Sayadaw U Thila Sara (1832-1907) was an author and ascetic of the Tawya forest sect. Yesagyo Sayadaw U Ganta Thara (1832-1914) introduced the Pakokku method of teaching scriptures. Manle Sayadaw U Zawana (1841-1920) created the Magadeva Lingarathit and many shorter works. (WPD 4/10) Ledi Sayadaw U Nyarna (1846-1943) wrote 60 religious treatises and was the first to receive the Agga Maha Pandita title (1911) and an honorary D.Litt. from Rangoon College (1918). Taung Gwin Sayadaw Shin Witthodha Sara (1842-1937) became Thathanabaing in 1901 as runner up to the deceased Modha Sayadaw Shin Thuzata, and resigned in 1933. Pakokku Sayadaw U Pinnya (1878-1946) taught and wrote two scriptural works. Nyaung Yan Sayadaw U Revata (1873-1955) wrote 130 scriptural treatises and headed numerous official Buddhist organizations. Burmese Arts Articles on Burmese arts and crafts. [Copies, at cost, on request.--HCMacD] Apr. 2: `Kanote' floral designs, by Min Naing. [Traditional Burmese floral designs.] Apr. 2,9,16,23,30: Anyein Thabin, by Saw Mon Nyin. [Cont. (2) Traditional anyein jesters; (3) Famous dancers; (4) "Dancer `India' Sein Hmon"--life of a dancer; (5) "Mya-che-gyin Ma Ngwe Myaing"--another; (6) "`Liberty' Ma Mya Yin"--another.] Apr. 2: `Apyodaw' dance, by Tin Tun U (Culture). [The "Maid of Honor Dance" in dramatic performances.] Apr. 3: Burmese painting, by Win Pa. [Cont. "A museum of Ratnabon Period paintings"--paintings of the Maha Muni Pagoda in Mandalay.] Apr. 9: Pyu Period culture & music, by Sann Thamein. [Survey of Pyu period musical instruments and dances, as recorded in China.] Apr. 23: The origination of wall paintings, by Min Naing. [Pagan wall paintings.] Apr. 30: Burmese rural paintings, by Min Naing. [Palm leaf drawings.] Bells of Burma Continued series on the Bells of Burma by Dr. Khin Maung Nyunt. Apr. 2,6,7: (No. 9) Inscriptions at the Shwe In-Pin Monastery. [Bells and inscriptions at the Shwe In-pin Kyaung of Mandalay. The largest bell, 22" high and 53" in circumference, was cast in 1839 and has 15 lines of religious inscriptions. Two other smaller bells are also inscribed; one, of 14 viss, cast in 1932; and the other without a date. A stone inscription, with 83 lines of Burmese text, describes the life of U Set Shin (1852-1917).] Apr. 19,20: (No. 10) The Bell that returned to its homeland. [A bell from the Shwe Hmaw Daw Pagoda in Pegu, cast in 1755, was taken as a war trophy during the Second Anglo-Burmese War, and was returned home from India in 1957. 14 lines of inscription, in Mon, describe the history of Hanthawaddy, the building of a prayer hall in 1750, and the casting of the bell. [Text in English given]. Memoirs of Htin Lin April 9,16,23,30: The detailed and evocative Reminiscences of Htin Lin. [(1) Early Years: monastic school life; (2) Boyhood: British school life, religious conflicts; (3) Youthful years: novicehood; courtship; (4) Married Life.] Pyu Inscription Found Apr. 8: A stone slab with Pyu inscriptions was dug up in the compound of the Okpo Monastery, Kayingon village-tract, Thegon Township [Pegu] last August. The slab, in 5 fragments, dates from the Pyu period (2nd-8th centuries), and measures 2'9" x 1'10" x 3'6". There are six lines of letters on the slab, and an umbrella, sun, moon, and two flags are inscribed as an ornament. The letters are similar to those on the stone urn found at the Wikyama cemetery near Prome Pagoda. The Department of Archaeology is trying to decipher the inscription. [photo] (WPD 4/9) Rewards for Artifacts Apr. 8: Three men from Shwetaga Kwetthit in Mokeshay Village unearthed a Pyu period gold bowl weighing 19 ticals, 22 silver bowls, and Pyu coins, while panning for gold near Taunglonnyo village, Hamawzar Village-tract, Prome Township [Pegu]. On Apr. 5 they were given rewards totalling K 256,700 for turning them in to the authorities, of which K 197,455 represented the value of the articles. The bowls have Kanotepan, Keinnayi and Keinnaya and lion figures, and some have Pyu inscriptions. (WPD 4/9) Thingyan Festival Apr. 15: The Festival of goodwill and loving kindness, by Dr. Khin Maung Nyunt. [Background of Thingyan (New Year's) festival.] Apr. 17: Goodwill coupled with thabye flower, by Tint Lwin. [Significance of Thabye (Eugenia jambolana) flower at Thingyan.] Movies Reopen Apr. 17: Beginning Apr. 18, the downtown Rangoon cinemas and 13 others in Rangoon will show two daily shows (2-4, 5-7 pm) and three shows on weekends and holidays (11-1, 2-4, 5-7 pm). Cinemas to reopen [films named] are Thamada (Dagon Twp.), Wizaya (Bahan Twp.), Shesaung and Shwegon (Kyauktada Twp.), Shwebaho (Tamwe Twp.), Mya Yadana (Thaketa Twp.), Sanda Myaing (Hlaing Twp.), Mahamyaing (Insein Twp.), Padetha (So. Okkalapa Twp.), Mya Han Tha (Syriam Twp.), Thida (Kemmendine Twp.), Min Yan Aung (No. Okkalapa Twp.), Irrawaddy (Thingangyun Twp.). (WPD 4/18) Apr. 23: The reopened movies are crowded. Tickets range from K 1-6 or 2-8, depending on the theatre. (WPD 4/24) National Literary Committee Apr. 17: The National Literary Awards Selection Committee for 1988 and 1989 has been formed, and will also select the books published in 1987. Chairman: U Soe Nyunt (Htila Sitthu), Managing Director of the News and Periodicals Enterprise. Members (2 year term): U Maung Maung Khin (Tekkatho U Maung Maung Khin), technical consultant, Motion Picture Enterprise; U Than Saw, retired Managing Director, News and Periodicals Enterprise; Dr. Khin Maung Nyunt, Director-General, Department of Archaeology; U Tun Aung Gyi, Director, Press Scrutiny and Registration Division, General Administration Department; U Maung Maung Tin (MA), member of Burmese Language Commission; Daw Kyan, retired senior research officer, Burma Historical Research Department; Daw Yin Yin (Sao Mon Hnyin), member of Burmese Language Commission; Daw Myint Than, retired lecturer, Burmese Department, Rangoon University; U Myint Kyi (Tekkatho Myat Soe), Director, Burmese Language Commission Department; U Thaw Kaung, Librarian, Universities Central Library; Dr. Maung Maung Nyo, professor, Institute of Medicine 2; U Kyaw Aung (Kyaw Aung), retired editor, University Translation and Publications; U Tin Aung, retired editor, Sarpay Beikman Board. Secretary: U Myo Thant (Maung Hsu Shin), Additional Director (Literature), Sarpay Beikman Board. (WPD 4/18) Foreign Correspondents Club Apr. 25: The new Foreign Correspondents Club of Burma opened at 243/247 Kyongyi St., Rangoon, in the presence of officals and diplomats. 5 columnists from the Loktha Pyithu Nezin and The Working People's Daily donated K 5,000 to the Club. The Club was formed Feb. 28, 1989, "to promote a free and responsible press." Its officers are: President: U Sein Win (AP) Vice-chairman: U Chit Tun (UPI) General Secretary: U Hla Htwe (Antara) Joint General Secretary: U Maung Maung (BBC) Treasurer: U Hla Kyi (Reuter) Four Executive Committee members: [not named]. (WPD 4/26) Mandalay Restorations Apr. 26: Discussion has begun on reconstruction and preseration of the Mandalay Nanmyo, archways, and 35 pyathats, damaged during World War II. (WPD 4/27) MISCELLANEOUS Crime News Names, addresses, and photos of culprits generally included. Mar. 26: Rangoon police on Mar. 19 seized 40.5 grams of marijuana, 5.6 grams of opium, and 5.5 grams of heroin, and arrested 5 persons. Kengtung [Shan] police on Mar. 13 seized 44 kilos of raw opium and a "local-made gun"; 2 persons were arrested. (WPD 3/30) Apr. 1: Shwegu [Kachin] security units on Jan. 29 seized 0.767 kilos of Fowel Brand white heroin and 0.375 kilos of raw opium, and arrested 3 persons. Bassein [Irrawaddy] police on Mar. 13 arrested 3 men for extortion and impersonating intelligence personnel. (WPD 4/2) Apr. 2: 2 dacoits who robbed the Mergui-Moulmein passenger boat Khaing Yadana Soe on Feb. 12 were arrested in Mergui on Mar. 3, and 3 guns were seized. (WPD 4/3) Apr. 4: Rangoon police on Mar. 22 seized 125 bottles of Phensedyl and 74 bottles of Comethezine, and arrested two people. Homalin [Sagaing] security units on Mar. 4 seized 5 Chu-kaba brand packets of heroin, weighing 1.639 kilos, and seized one person. (WPD 4/5) Apr. 5: Rangoon police on Apr. 1 raided 10 che-hti gambling houses, and seized documents and K 91,789 in stakes. 38 persons (including a monk, Sayadaw U Candavara) are being prosecuted. (WPD 4/6) Apr. 6: Kalaw police [Shan] on Feb. 19 seized 5,062 kilos of raw opium, worth K 15,489, and arrested a woman. (WPD 4/10) Apr. 8: Rangoon police broke up a gang of illegal car importers, who used false documents to import cars without paying duty. 5 men were arrested and 3 have absconded. 37 cars sold during the third week of March were seized. (WPD 4/9) Apr. 9: Rangoon railway police on Mar. 26 seized 210 bottles of phensedyl and arrested two people. (WPD 4/10) Apr. 20: A young man caught stealing 2 longyis in Rangoon, Apr. 12, had on him 2 membership cards in the National League for Democracy [No. 2], two agitative poems, "three songs with human rights titles," and other songs. Action is being taken under "Emergency Provisions Act No. 5(J) and theft." (WPD 4/21) Apr. 23: Mandalay railway police on Apr. 13 seized 0.8 kilos of heroin in Mandalay railway station, and arrested 3 people. On Apr. 15 they seized another 0.75 kilos of heroin, and arrested a third man. Rangoon police arrested a burglar who stole K 582,900 from a safe on Apr. 17. (WPD 4/24) Crimes Statistics Apr. 4: There were 354 police cases in Burma between Mar. 16-31. [M = murders; D = dacoities; R = robberies; Rp = rapes; B = burglaries; CT = cattle thefts]: M D R Rp B CT TOTAL Kachin 1 - 1 1 - 1 4 Karen 3 - - - - 1 4 Chin 1 - - 1 - 2 4 Sagaing 4 - 1 4 - 5 14 Tenass. 7 4 2 1 1 1 16 Pegu 41 4 6 14 1 28 94 Magwe 11 2 1 8 - 1 23 Mandalay 9 1 1 5 - 11 27 Mon 10 9 4 2 - 7 32 Rakhine 8 - 1 4 - 2 15 Rangoon 21 3 9 5 3 16 57 Shan 8 4 2 - - 4 18 Irrawaddy 21 2 5 8 - 10 46 [Kayah] not listed . 145 29 33 53 5 89 354 (WPD 4/5) Obituaries Mar. 31: Saw Jesse Say, Syriam, son of U Saw Tay Po Say and Sayama Daw Lulu, died in Syriam, aged 35. [Baptist] (WPD 4/1) Apr. 4: Friedrich V. Lustig, aka Sayadaw Ashin Ananda of Moe Hnyin monastery, vassa 57, died in Rangoon, aged 77. Born in Estonia Apr. 26, 1912, he became a Buddhist monk in 1930 and came to Burma in 1949, where he spent the rest of his life. He was awarded the title of Lilac Laureate Poet in Oct. 1968, and wrote many poems in English and translations of classical Burmese poems, which were printed in the Burmese press and in a number of books [titles listed]. (WPD 4/5) Apr. 4: Daw Mercy, wife of Rev. Khant Gyi, died in Maymyo, aged 66. [Baptist] (WPD 4/6) Apr. 7: Daw Tin Tin, widow of U Pu Nyo, died in Rangoon, aged 91. (WPD 4/8) Apr. 9: Naw Kyi Byu (a) Ah Naw, Retired (C.M.A.), died in Rangoon, aged 76. [Baptist] (WPD 4/10) Apr. 12: Naw Bella (Bassein), widow of U Saw Pe Ba, died in Rangoon, aged 94. [Christian] (WPD 4/ 13) Apr. 12: Mrs. Ahmed Ali Bham (Hawa Bi Bi Ismail Doodha), mother of Dr. Ameen A. Bham (Australia), Dr. Sulaiman A. Bham (Allan Bham-USA), Michael Bham (Omer), died in Rangoon, aged 77. [Muslim] (WPD 4/ 15) Apr. 15: S.M. Yahyah (a) Khin Maung Kyi, husband of Daw Ti, died in Rangoon, aged 62. [Muslim] (WPD 4/16) Apr. 16: Mrs. Rosie D. Klaipo, widow of U Daniel Klaipo, died in Mandalay, aged 85. [Christian] (WPD 4/17) Apr. 16: U Han Sein, widower of Babsy, died in Rangoon, aged 76. (WPD 4/17) Apr. 16: Daw Swan Tee, wife of U Ang Hong Kee, died in Rangoon, aged 78. (WPD 4/18) Apr. 25: U Aung Than (Ret'd Deputy Director, Myanma Jute Industries), husband of Daw Aye Mu, died in Rangoon, aged 48. (WPD 4/26) Apr. 26: Saw Kyaw Dwe, Ret'd Sub-inspector of Police, widower of Naw Muriel, died at the age of 81. [Christian]. (WPD 4/28) Apr. 27: Naw Phoebe, sister of Naw Sein Mya (Mrs. Rev. Lonle), died in Insein, Rangoon, aged 85. [Baptist]. (WPD 4/28) Apr. 27: Mrs. Mary Theresa Ignatius, widow of Joseph Ignatius, died in Rangoon, aged 74. [Catholic] (WPD 4/29) Fires Apr. 1: Feature article, Muse fire brings friends closer, by Aik San (Muse). [Fire at Muse {Shan} on Mar. 18-19 destroyed 271 houses, leaving 2,274 people from 370 households homeless, with damage of K 320 million. Shan State Red Cross and others have provided relief.] (WPD 4/1) Apr. 19: A fire in Aung-myay-tha-zan ward, Mandalay North-West Twp. [Mandalay] killed 3 people, destroyed 290 houses leaving 2,034 people from 469 households homeless, and caused damage of K 3 million. (WPD 4/21) Garden Series Series of long, illustrated feature articles on gardens and recreation spots, by staff writers: Apr. 4: Kanthaya Park of North Okkalapa [Rangoon]. Apr. 5,7: Parks and Gardens crowded with people; Efforts being made for ensuring Rangoon befitting a city [Maha Bandoola, Bogyoke Aung Gyi, Cantonment, Thakin Mya, and Kanthaya Parks, and Mingaladon and Pan-hey-wun Gardens in Rangoon]. Parks, Zoos, etc. Apr. 3: A new zoological garden for Upper Burma is being built at the Mann Centenary Grounds at the foot of Mandalay Hill. (WPD 4/4) // Apr. 9: The Mandalay Yadanabon Zoological Garden was opened Apr. 8. It was built in 41 days and cost K 10,208,042, using 18,004 volunteers. There are 51 buildings, 5 ponds, 5 mounds, 20,000 feet of foot trail, 5,800 feet of motor road, 6 bridges, 50,250 trees, and a 4,080 foot joy-ride rail track. There are 196 animals of 42 kinds. (WPD 4/10) Apr. 22: A cable car was inaugurated in the Bogyoke Aung San Park, Kandawgyi, Rangoon, running between the jetty islet and Kennedy islet. Fare: K 2 to Kennedy islet; K 3 to jetty islet (including Park admission). Hailstorm in Mandalay Apr. 27: Strong winds, rain, and hailstones lashed Mandalay Apr. 26, causing partial power failures and local flooding. (WPD 4/28) +-+-+-+-+ 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). +-+-+-+-+ Materials Available by Special Order As indicated above, your compiler will be glad to provide subscribers with copies of the following special supplementary materials, postpaid, on receipt of $5.00 each (US$ 7.50 foreign), each. Space and postage cost do not permit including them with the regular issue: 1. Draft Election Law, and accompanying documents. 16 pp. 2. Lists, Numerical and Alphabetical, of the 234 registered Burmese Political Parties. ca. 15 pp. To order, write me at 32 Elm St., Cooperstown, NY 13326, enclosing a check made out, as usual, to: Hugh C. MacDougall. Burma Press Summary No. 26, April 1989 Hugh C. MacDougall