91-12 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from THE WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. V, No. 12, December 1991 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans 2 Cartoons 2 Official Books 4 Political Articles 4 Politicians Penalized 6 Colleges Closed after Protest 6 NLD Expels Daw Aung San Suu Kyi 7 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt's Views 8 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt's Speech 8 --Daw Aung San Suu Kyi 8 --U Aung Gyi; U Nu 11 --Human Rights 11 --External Instigation 12 --College & University Closure 12 ELECTIONS Party Registration Changes 13 Hluttaw Member Resigns 13 Twenty-nine Hluttaws Ousted 13 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 14 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 15 Fishermen Repatriated 15 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Foreign Donations 15 Hiroshima Peace Stone 16 UN Border Area Projects 16 Chinese Railway Equipment 16 Myanmar-Lao Boundary Group 16 FOREIGN VISITORS Business Visitors 17 Academic and Non-Profit Visitors 17 International Agency Visitors 17 Laotian & Cambodian Sayadaws 17 Thai Agriculture Minister 18 Philippine Foreign Secretary 18 Chinese Delegations 18 Lao Vice Foreign Minister 18 Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister 18 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 19 Delegations to Meetings 19 Delegations Return 19 MYANMAR GAZETTE Appointments Confirmed 20 GOVERNMENT National Day Message 20 Independence Day Objectives 21 Land Management Notification 21 MILITARY Insurgent Attacks 21 Insurgents Surrender 22 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 22 Construction and Other Projects 22 Advertisements 22 Joint Ventures 23 Chamber of Commerce 23 Border Trade 23 Flights to Jakarta 23 Rising Credit Card Use 23 Basic Commodities 24 Corruption 24 29th Gems Emporium 24 Forest Conservation Measures 24 Rainfall in Yangon 25 HEALTH AIDS 25 National Health Committee 26 SPORTS Foreign Teams & Delegations 26 XVI South East Asian Games 26 Cultural Regatta Festival 27 Mayor's Marathon 28 Hole-in-One 28 CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles 28 Patriotic Culture 28 Border Area Education 29 Literary Trust Fund Recipients 30 University Convocations 30 Literary Prizes 30 Music Asiayone 30 Rakhine Pagoda Trustee Board 30 1990 Motion Picture Awards 30 MISCELLANEOUS Crime News 31 Obituaries 31 Fires 32 Earthquakes 32 Ayeyarwady Floods 32 Miscellany 32 Narcotics Seizures 32 Engagements 32 ----- TO OUR SUBSCRIBERS: The following are the dates on which 1991 issues were mailed by me to the University of Illinois for reproduction and distribution: Jan. -- Feb. 25 July -- Nov. 24 Feb. -- Mar. 31 Aug. -- Dec. 2 Mar. -- May 1 Sep. -- Dec. 9 Apr. -- May 18 Oct. -- Nov. 16 May -- July 2 Nov. -- Dec. 13 June -- July 29 Dec. -- Feb. 3 Working People's Daily issues for July 16-Sept. 15 were not received by me until Nov. 18. -- HCMacD. ----- Issues for Dec. 3, 13, and 22 not received. ----- POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans The four political slogans launched in November 1988 appeared in most issues of The Working People's Daily throughout the month, as did the "Noble Desire" slogan begun in January 1990. We reprinted them in the January 1991 issue. --- Since Jan. 3, 1991, most issues have also run the following slogan: The interests of the State cannot be served and promoted by disturbances and instability. Join hands with the Tatmadaw in preventing disturbances and acts of instability. --- From April 1989 the The Working People's Daily ran a political slogan across the bottom of each front page. This was changed to a religious slogan in August 1991, and later moved to the top of the page: Dec. 1-8: Nivato ca, modesty; this is the way to auspiciousness. Dec. 9-17: Santutthi ca, contentment; this is the way to auspiciousness. Dec. 18-21: Katannuta, gratitude towards the grateful; this is the way to auspiciousness. Dec. 22-30: Kalena dhammasavanam, timely audition of the doctrines; this is the way to auspiciousness. Dec. 31: Khantis ca, patience; this is the way to auspiciousness. --- On Oct. 7, 1991, the following political slogan was added to the bottom of each front page: Emergence of the State Constitution is the duty of all citizens of Myanmar Naing-Ngan --- Cartoons There continued to be several political cartoons in each issue. E.g.: Dec. 2: One Myanmar to another: "Don't try to destroy the stability of the nation by spreading rumours with a view to extracting benefit for yourself. We know without being told that you're a disloyal citizen." Dec. 2: Two Myanmars, "Axe-Handle" and "Those pining for the East or the West", quail before the song: "We cherish our language and culture 9... We love our nation... Myanmarpyi is now at a new epoch." Dec. 4: 1st Myanmar: "A few months before Lord Buddha entered Nirvana, He, accompanied by His brother Ananda, went on a tour to deliver Dhamma to living things: while stopping at Nartika village, He declared that one who absolutely believes in Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha and keeps the Five precepts well can be known as `Sotapan' who will never fall into `Apai' (four undesirable destinations including hell). 2nd Myanmar: "Right, Uncle Byauk. Sadu, Sadu, Sadu. Is that so, those who set aside the Three Precious Gems and rely on others, who do not keep the Five precepts and hoping to gain good opportunities though they have not done any good deeds will surely have to go to hell." Dec. 4: Myanmar to hippie-dressed "Video, film, drama": "If your performance is good, you will get a place on the stage. But if your acting is indecent, you will fall from the stage. Safeguard national culture." Dec. 4: 1st Myanmar: "Hey, our nation's name changed from `Burma' to `Myanmar' on 26-5-89. Did you forget?" 2nd Myanmar: "That's why those who will surely dive to hell punned Lord `Buddha' as `Moddha'." Dec. 4: Myanmar: "Local-made things are no good, useless. Foreign-made ones are very good. It's rather no good to be born in Myanmarpyi. Hmmmm!" Blob labelled "The desire of falling into servitude": "So, I'll come to stay with you." Dec. 5: 1st Myanmar (dreaming): "The Nobel Prize is a peace prize. However the hands which conferred it are blood-stained with the smell of gun-powder. In other words, it's not free from the strings of a secret organization. The Nobel Prize awarded to your nation this year is not a peace prize but dynamite that I invented." 2nd Myanmar: "Hey you, what are you uttering absent-mindedly?" 1st Myanmar: "Oh, I fall asleep while reading `I am so sorry' of Po Kan Kaung featured in the Myet-khin-thit Magazine of this month issue. In my dream, I got to meet with Nobel Prize donor Alfred Bernard Nobel who invented dynamite. And I was uttering what he told me. Hmmm! Hmmm!" Dec. 6: "Democracy" to "Indisciplined Person", "Corrupt Person", and "Lawless Person": "In no way I can accept you if you are in such condition." Dec. 9: Worm "Traitor", in apple "State", on table "National Unity". Myanmar: "We must beware of such maggots and wipe them out." Dec. 9: Myanmar with sign "Spirit of cherishing and safeguarding one's own race (Wunthanu-rekkhita tayar)": "This is what we must keep firmly." Dec. 11: 1st Myanmar (discarding cigarette): "Do you want to live long according to the slogan `Health for all by the Year 2000?'" 2nd Myanmar: "Yes." 1st Myanmar: "So, let's quit smoking which is costly and dangerous." Dec. 14: Foreign correspondent to politician in the jungle: "As you associate with armed terrorists, you shouldn't address yourself as a People's Representative. You'd better call yourself a representative of armed terrorists." Dec. 14: Myanmar to old man, who is remembering payoffs to Indian chetyars: "Maung Moegyo. Let's continue about the debts. Of the debts we had paid, the worst was...the hands of our daughters we had to give to this person or that person... Right, Uncle Byauk. Right!" Dec. 15: "Colonialist" looking at two Myanmar men and a woman: "I'll take gold, I'll take silver and then the person." Dec. 16: "Cherish Myanmar Traditions." One Myanmar to another, looking at mini-skirted girl with dark glasses: "We have firm records on Myanmar attires from Bagan period to today. There is no such clothes in these records." Dec. 16: 1st Myanmar: "We must uproot and crush colonialists' and fascists' lackneys [sic] who will give trouble to the people." 2nd Myanmar: "Those unpatriotic, traitorous axe-handles." Dec. 17: Mother: "There are many persons who use the word `democracy' repeatedly, but in practice they criticize, put blame and condemn the others who are different from them." Son: "They are quack democracy lovers." Dec. 18: 1st Myanmar: "A stranger's `love' is less reliable than the hatred of blood relatives." 2nd Myanmar: "So, we shouldn't let misunderstanding and hatred be sown among us family members and our thoughts be wavered by the broadcasts of BBC and VOA. We must remain united." Dec. 19: Myanmar to scruffy, hippy couple: "What? Today's cultural trend? The cultural trend that you all have been following is alien culture. If you follow that trend, you'll fall into cultural servitude. That's why the Government has to undertake programmes for keeping patriotism alive and dynamic on account of you who rely and think highly of foreign things." Dec. 21: [1st panel] Cannoneer fires bomb labeled "Nobel", thinks: "Whoever will be killed is not my concern. What is important is my own well-being." [2nd panel] Myanmar douses exploded bomb with water labeled "Our Three Main National Causes." Dec. 23: "Private entrepreneurs should import and export systematically and properly." One hand, "Export", holds bag of "domestic products." Another, "Import" holds bag of "Goods really essential for the country." Dec. 23: 1st Myanmar: "We were once enslaved. What should be called the mentality of `pining for aunt over the shoulder of mother' and trying to become slave again?" 2nd Myanmar: "It is the mentality of pariahs having no love for the nation or the people." Dec. 23: 1st Myanmar: "Here! A party says `We will shape our own destiny.'" 2nd Myanmar: "Of course. They shaped their destiny. Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha!" Dec. 24: Myanmar father to Myanmar suitor: "If you are of good character, if you respect the law and if you are hard-working and industrious, I am willing to give you my daughter's hand." Dec. 26: 1st Myanmar: "Today's Myanmar Naing-ngan is a place where Theravada Buddhism greatly flourishes. Isn't it so?" 2nd Myanmar: "No answer needed. It's obvious." 1st Myanmar: "But there are even those who said Buddha was an ordinary person... and had the crudity to say that Buddha should be called Moddha." 2nd Myanmar: "It's nothing new. Even when Lord Buddha was alive, there were such individuals as Devadat, his brother-in-law and also Zeinzamarna who attempted to disgrace Lord Buddha... It's nothing strange. Hahaha!" Dec. 28: 1st Myanmar: "What does it mean that `Dog is more loyal than man?'" 2nd Myanmar: "Don't be too naive. Dog is loyal only to its Master. Oh! It is a Western thinking." 1st Myanmar: "Of course, right! Absolutely right. This is Myanmarpyi. Ummmm!" Dec. 31: Two Myanmars watch a Western woman: "Friend, this woman goes to church with her husband. Ha! If so, she is a Mrs. isn't she? Yes, Yes. By the way, let me tell you about an old song. That is... `Mar.. mar..mar!' You may change your name if you wish to. Tu-ne..tae-ne..tae-ne..La-byaung... Let the name be changed without fail. That is that. Aw! Aw! Yes... Here, let the name be changed...Is it that? Yes. This fellow has understood it. `Hay! Hay! Hay!" Official Books Officially published books and periodicals are advertised or publicised regularly. These were featured this month: "Why did Myanmar Naing-Ngan withdraw from Sterling Area? What repercussions did it cause?" by Bo Thanmani, in Burmese. Book on Relations with China (in Burmese) "Skyful of Lies": Book rebutting false broadcasts, in Burmese. Dec. 24: A book in Burmese on "historical records of the activities" of the SLORC from 1988 to 1991 was published Dec. 20. The title is "Taing-kyo Pyi-pyu," and the forward was written by SLORC Vice-Chairman Gen. Than Shwe. The book has 816 pages, 130 black and white photos, and 786 colour photos, and is available at K150 at various bookstores. [photo] (WPD 12/25) Political Articles Following the pattern begun in October 1988, each issue contains lengthy feature articles, translated from Burmese, designed to bolster government views and policies. Editorials sometimes touched on similar themes. We note them briefly, with excerpts of typical or particularly significant portions: Dec. 1-4,6-7,9-12,14-19,21,23-27: The matter of Myanmar Naing Ngan's paying debts arising out of its separation from India, by Bo Thanmani. [Cont. (8-29) History of the separation of Burma from India in 1937, and its financial arrangements.] Dec. 1: National Day Carries Special Significance, by Kyaw Thura. [British tyranny recalled. Need now is "unity of purpose and unity of action."] Dec. 2-10,26-31: A Concise History of Myanmar and the Tatmadaw's Role (1948-1988), by A Tatmadaw Reporter. [Cont. (159-173) War against insurgency.] Dec. 4: Victories in battles against KNU terrorists, by Ko Soe. [Review of 1989-1990 offensives. "KNU's are so stupid and vicious that they are trying to create things which go against the nature .... They have to shift from one hideout to another living in constant tension and never feeling safe .... The other country refused to accept them and so they have no place to take refuge. Now they are reaching the end of the tether...."] Dec. 5: Vicious senseless and violent acts of KNU terrorists, by Ko Soe. [Denunciation. The KNU "are just murderers, robbers, rapists and blackmarketeers."] Dec. 6: Post independence press in retrospect (1948-1958), by Shwe Kalaung. [Cont. (90) Political divisiveness in the Myanmar press.] Dec. 10,16: "National heritage won back at a price so high", by An Observer. [Resistance to British colonialism.] Dec. 11-12: Hailing the 44th Anniversary Independence Day [hereafter H44AID]: Post-Independence period, by Maung Dawna. [Preservation of national unity by Caretaker Government, Revolutionary Council, and SLORC.] Dec. 13-14: The ill winds that blow nobody good, by Kyaw Thura. [Winds sowing dissent.] Dec. 15-16: Who are violating human rights?, by Warazein. [(1) Western freedom for pornography, prostitution, etc., should not be copied. Each country entitled to its own customs. "Some {Western} films have scenes in which the actor and the actress embrace and kiss each other passionately but since such scenes ought not to be shown in our country, our own films have no scenes. Only scenes which Myanmar eyes are used to seeing and which are not against Myanmar cultural norms are created and shown in films." (2) Tatmadaw defends human rights. Britain waged three aggressive wars against Myanmar, like other colonial powers. VOA and BBC still interfere in Myanmar affairs. Great powers are declining "in their political, economic and social fields," and "we feel sympathetic towards the people residing in those nations."] Dec. 17: H44AID: Promoting mutual interests, by Maung Maung Aye. [Successes of new market economy and foreign investment.] Dec. 18: (Thitsa-Myitta Discussions) Duty-conscious people, by Byammahso. [People should "expose the terrorists and destructionists in time."] Dec. 19: For perpetuity and progress of the Union, by Maung Maung Aye. [Accomplishments in forestry and border area roads and bridges. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 20-21: The Myanmar Mentality, by Maung Aye Nyein. [History of Myanmar's "good character traits and fine traditions."] Dec. 20: Editorial: "Doe Htee, Doe Nan, Doe Kya-Ngan Hnint". [Phrase means "With Our own (royal) umbrella, Our own palace, and Our own Monarch." Though more modern expressions are used today, the traditional saying is still apt and meaningful.] Dec. 22-23: Political parties and inner-party problems, by Mya Win. [Political parties should "avoid doing unclean activities and violating the laws" and "get themselves rid of members who are not worthy of being members."] Dec. 24: Nation builder King Kyansittha, by Aung Min. ["I ruminate a similarity in character between Tatmadaw Defence Services Commander-in-Chier Senior General Saw Maung and Kyansittha, the Lord of Htihlaing, a hero, an architect for national unification and a promoter of religion. Is not the Senior General also Kyansittha?.... Nation Building King Kyansittha ruled the nation for twenty years from 1084 to 1103 AD. And for that long the nation prospered and the religion glittered. I pray that the Tatmadaw Government led by Senior General Saw Maung, the modern day King Kyansittha, may also be able to prevent the nation from disintegrating, to strengthen national unity and to consolidate national sovereignty, just like King Kyansittha."] Dec. 28-31: The heritage of our forefathers, by Maung Myo Tun (Myingyan). [Patriotism in Myanmar's Precolonial history reviewed.] Dec. 29-30: H44AID: Exploiting our Natural Resources, by Maung Yin Swe. [Fisheries and forests.] Politicians Penalized Dec. 4: U Taung Gyi, National League for Democracy organizer and Kayah State NLD Executive Committee member, was arrested in Pasawng [Kayah] after a gun and telescopic sight was seized in his saw-mill compound by a "military column of the local regiment after receiving a tip." He had bought the gun in 1982, and has a record of payoffs to the KNPP terrorists [details]. His brother-in-law U Saw Taik Tit, Chairman of the Pasawng Twp. NLD, was also arrested for payoffs to the KNPP. [photos] (WPD 12/5) Dec. 6: Election Commission Announcement No. 983 of Dec. 6 deregisters the Democratic Party for New Society (DPNS) for infringement of Section 3(b) of the Political Parties Registration Law, because "it has been found evident that the party gets contact with members of underground KNU organization which is in armed movement against the State, and that it made movements to go against the State." (WPD 12/7) Dec. 18: The Supreme Court has revoked the license of Advocates U Khin Maung Aye as of Dec. 10, 1991 "after he was found to have made contacts with BCP UGs, fled to the terrorist areas and have been serving as joint secretary with the ABSDF group which is rising against the State." Similarly, the license of Higher Grade Pleader U Hla Htay was revoked "after he was found to be with the ABSDF group...and serving as joint secretary there." (WPD 12/19) Colleges Closed after Protest Dec. 10: [Text]: "Some elements, with the intention to cause disturbances and to distract students who wish to pursue studies peacefully and to undermine the peace and tranquillity of the public, attempted to carry out instigative work at the Recreation Centre of the Yangon University (Main) at 10.40 am today. "At 10.40 am today, two masked students, who were bent on creating disturbances, hoisted a fighting peacock flag on the Recreation Centre, while about five other students started shouting slogans on Adipati Road in front of the Recreation Centre. This drew the attention of about 200 students nearby who crowded round to see what was happening. Some students from the crowd joined in and started shouting on Adipati Road between the Recreation Centre and the Convocation Hall. At that instance the rector and faculty members of the University tried to bring the situation under control and students who wished to pursue education peacefully left silently in groups beginning at about 11 am from the designated gate of the Institute of Economics and also by the gate near the Convocation Hall. Only the students who were intent on causing disturbances remained behind. University teachers eventually persuaded them through loudspeakers to leave and they gradually dispersed. "The situation returned to normal at about 1.30 pm. "A group of officials, comprising the Commander of the Yangon Command Headquarters and the Minister for Education went to the place and studied the situation. They also had discussions with the Rector and University teachers and made arrangements for the pursuance of education peacefully, it is reported." (WPD 12/11) Dec. 11: [Text] "Some students... having failed in realizing their aim yesterday, they again attempted today to instigate and create disturbances. "At about 9.30 am today, when some of the students arrived in front of the Recreation Centre, one student, who wanted to cause disturbances, started shouting slogans to draw a crowd. At about 10.30 am, two flag-bearing students started shouting and inciting the students near the Recreation Centre signboard and crowd of about 500 gathered. "The crowd then began moving towards the gate of Adipati Road. Although there were students who were curious onlookers watching developments they did not join in. At about 11 am, three flag-bearing students and part of the crowd veered from Adipati gate towards Toungoo Hall. They went past Toungoo and Dagon Halls shouting slogans on the way as they moved towards the Recreation Centre. The Rector and faculty members of the Yangon University sought to bring the situation under control in these conditions and students who wished to pursue education peacefully began leaving from the gate of the Institute of Economics beginning 11.30 am. The troublemakers who remained behind finally dispersed at noon and the situation returned to normal, it is reported." (WPD 12/12) Dec. 11: Ministry of Education Announcements state that "because some malicious elements with intent on disturbing peaceful pursuits of education and certain organizations wishing to make use of students for political gains have been attempting to incite unrest, the following" Universities, Degree Colleges, Institutes and schools, and Institutes of Medicine, "will remain closed temporarily as of 12 December 1991 to ensure the rule of law and maintenance of peace and tranquillity in the country and for the long-term welfare of students who genuinely wish to peacefully pursue their studies.": Universities: Yangon; Mandalay; Mawlamyine Institutes: Yangon Technology; Economics; Education; Agriculture; Veterinary Science; University Computer Centre; Mandalay Technology Degree Colleges: Pathein; Sittway; Magway; Taunggyi; Myitkyina. Colleges: Workers; Bago; Pyay; Hinthada; Hpa-an; Dawei; Yenangyoung; Pakokku; Meiktila; Shwebo; Monywa; Lashio Technical Institutes: All Agricultural Institutes: All Technical High Schools: All Agricultural High Schools: All Institutes of Medicine: No. 1, Yangon; No. 2, Yangon; Mandalay; Dental Medicine. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 12: Editorial: Prevent trouble makers from disturbing peaceful pursuit of education. ["Universities ...have had to be closed down as of Dec. 12.... These institutions have had to be closed down much against the wish and inclinations of the authorities concerned so as to ensure the coninued prevalence of the rule of law and for the maintenance of peace and tranquillity, and of course for the long-term interest and welfare of those students genuinely wishing to pursue their studies in peace.... Within the past few days unfortunate happenings occurred unexpectedly at the Yangon University (Main).... The [SLORC]...will in no way brook any attempt to upset the prevailing environment of peace and tranquilty. The present situation is clearly the contrivance of a handful of trouble makers. But no matter how small the threat, it cannot be condoned at the price of law and order. However small, an immediate stop must be put to it. It is important for the majority of students...to realize and appreciate how the temporary interruption of their studies has come about...."] Dec. 13: The Government continued to assist students from the closed institutions return home. 3,193 students left Yangon, by air, rail, road, and boat. They include 988 from Yangon University, 328 from the Institute of Education, 284 from the Institute of Economics, 1,181 from the Yangon Institute of Technology, 34 from the Institute of Medicine I, 292 from Medicine-2, 56 from Dental Medicine, and 31 from Insein Technical Institute. (WPD 12/14) NLD Expels Daw Aung San Suu Kyi Dec. 15: Election Commission Press Release No. 38/91 of Dec. 15 announces, inter alia [text]: "The Presentation of the National League for Democracy: that there are reliable facts that Daw [Aung San] Suu Kyi had made contacts with terrorists (insurgents). This was made known to the country as well as to the world by the Secretary-1 of the [SLORC] at one of the Press Conferences. Moreover, the foreign broadcasting stations such as BBC, VOA and AIR have been issuing agitative announcements daily to the effect that Daw Suu Kyi is the leader of NLD. According to these announcements, the...Commission believes that Daw Suu Kyi is accepting assistance indirectly from one of the organizations of the foreign country. The NLD is an organization aimed at serving national interests both for the country and the people. Since the interest of the country is more important than that of an individual person and the NLD has to continue to carry out its noble duty for national interest, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has been expelled as member from NLD according to the decision made by the NLD Central Executive Committee meeting held on 11-12-91 and the presentation was signed by Chairman U Aung Shwe on behalf of the NLD Central Executive Committee." (WPD 12/16) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt's Views Dec. 20: Speaking to ethnic representatives at North-East Command in Lashio on Dec. 19, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said "that there is a need to hold a national convention with the participation of the national races so that a firm constitution will emerge. All people in the country including the national races in the border areas will have to participate in drafting the constitution and efforts must be made to achieve these objectives.... Ensuring peace and tranquillity and prevalence of the rule of law plays an important role for the emergence of the State Constitution and disturbances are the main obstacles for holding a National Convention, he said. Some powerful nations are interfering in the nation's internal affairs on the pretexts of democracy, human rights and narcotic drugs and the axe-handles within are also trying to cause unrest...." (WPD 12/ 21) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt's Speech Dec. 24: State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt made a major speech to government officials on the political situation and on the actions and status of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, U Aung Gyi, U Nu, human rights, external interference, and the December 1991 disturbances at Yangon University [excerpts]: "I am meeting with you today as I wish to make you understand the real political situation of the State.... There may be some facts which you do not understand yet or facts which you think you know but really do not. These may be caused by delusion and because of delusion we cannot see clearly...." [Extensive survey of events since 1988.] "Why is political stability achieved?... There are many political parties with no stability. It is because the politicians themselves seeking power do not understand the appropriate political programmes for the country.... Worst of all is confrontational activities against the Tatmadaw.... These depend on the background and mental attitude of those concerned. So, facts about some persons brought to the political arena will be explained...." :Daw Aung San Suu Kyi "I would explain matters relating to Daw Suu Kyi. In 1960, when Daw Suu Kyi was only 15 years old, she went along with her mother Daw Khin Kyi and lived with her when she took up her duties as Ambassador to India. She went to England to pursue her studies in 1964. It is learnt that one Mr Gore Booth looked after her while she was in England. There was also news that Mr Gore Booth even adopted her.... He [also] served as British Ambassador to Myanmar ...from 1953 to 1956 and became very friendly with Daw Suu Kyi's mother Daw Khin Kyi. "Daw Suu Kyi went to live in the United States...in 1969 and worked as an employee of the United Nations. While working at the United Nations she got married to a British Subject Michael Aris at the Kensington Registration Office in London on 31-12-71...." "The elder son Alexander John Christopher Aris was born in Kensington, London, on 12-4-73 and younger son Dannian Kin Arundel Aris was born at Oxford, London [sic], on 24-9-77, it is learnt. The Myanmar Embassy was not informed about the birth of the children. Birth certificates of the children were not sent or applied. These two children are not entitled to become citizens of Myanmar...according to Section 5(a) of the Union of Myanmar Citizenship Law of 1948 and because they are not in conformity with Chapter 2 of the Myanmar...Citizenship Law of 1982 which deals with Citizenship. These two children were permitted to register as British citizens according to British Immigration Act of 1971. "As for Daw Suu Kyi, from the time she got to England to pursue studies, she never informed the Myanmar Embassy in London and lived on her own.... Moreover, at that time, the Myanmar Association was formed in London and Myanmar traditional ceremonies such as Independence Day celebrations and Thingyan festivals were held, but she never attended such ceremonies. She did not even become a member, it is learnt...." [History of Daw Suu Kyi's passports.] "Although Daw Suu Kyi obtained permission to hold Myanmar passport, she failed time and again to comply with duties and responsibilities to be abided by Myanmar citizens.... She failed to [renew her passport] during the period 17-5-80 to 26-5-81. She had nothing to do with Myanmar...since that date. "One of Daw Suu Kyi's dishonest efforts was the attempt to procure Myanmar...passports for her two sons .... Though her two sons were born abroad [and neither reported nor registered] she dishonestly put the names of both her sons on her... passport.... Both her sons have no right to be the citizens of Myanmar ...according to the Citizenship Law. "These things are being explained here so that we may have an idea of the kind of attitude which Daw Suu Kyi had towards...Myanmar...before the disturbances took place...." "Although she holds a Myanmar passport, she enjoys rights as a citizen of Britain when she married a British citizen.... Her [British] visa is regarded as a Returning Resident Visa (RR Visa).... One may get British citizenship if he or she stays in Britain for three years. Daw Suu Kyi...has the right to enjoy such a privilege. Since she has the right to enjoy such privilege and there is every reason to believe that she has been enjoying them, it amounts to infringement of Section 10(e) of the Election Commission Law ...with the same wording as mentioned in Section 74(1)(a) of the 1947 Constitution.... This wording was included by Bogyoke Aung San himself.... "Soe Myat Thu (supply-in-charge) of the ABSDF Central, was captured ...while he was hiding in the compound of Daw Suu Kyi's house on 22-7-89. Similarly, Than Tun Soe (a) Taik Paik declared that he as a representative of the ABSDF (Kachin) had made contact with Daw Suu Kyi .... This is material evidence that she had contacts with terrorists and that she accepted terrorists.... "Daw Suu Kyi has no right to stand for election.... And...before the disturbances, she exhibited no interest whatsoever in the affairs of Myanmar...or in the politics of Myanmar...or in the affairs of the people of Myanmar.... A person such as this happened to come back as her mother was sick in 1988 and all kinds of malicious influences and BCP terrorists chose to make use of the opportunity to thrust her willy-nilly into the position of some sort of leader.... Contacts were maintained with terrorists and [she] accepted such terrorists in her home. This is a direct infringement of the law...." "Before [Daw Suu Kyi] had action taken against her...[on 3 December 1988] she pointed out that Lord Buddha was also an ordinary human being. She also said that a dog is more faithful than man.... Please think if this kind of thing...should be accepted according to Myanmar culture and...Buddhist desana or not. "On 21-1-89, Daw Suu Kyi began harshly criticizing Order No 2/88 and Declaration No 8/88 issued by the [SLORC] (Tatmadaw)." [NLD calls for defiance against Government cited.] "On 21-6-89...Daw Suu Kyi laid a wreath at the traffic lights... [as] a memorial one for the Myenigon Incident.... [This] was...an attempt to create unrest by misleading the youth. "Daw Suu Kyi...[wrote] reports to the Amnesty International...in London...after compiling all the fabricated news and rumours she could lay her hands on. It was clearly a case in which she seemed to be reporting back to her mother unit in the mother country...." "On 5-7-89...General Saw Maung... warned Daw Suu Kyi not to use the method of `defy all authority.' However...[she] continued to make speeches calling for `defiance of authority' and taking confrontational course.... On 10-7-89, she even alleged the Tatmadaw as a fascist Tatmadaw.... [She] attempted to use the...42nd Anniversary Arzani Day, 19 July 1989, to cause mass uprising. "Daw Suu Kyi...criticized central executive committee members of the Patriotic Old Comrades League on 16-7-89 on...permission to attend the Arzani Day and getting exemption for its publications from Press Scrutiny .... [They] could not correct her when she was wrong because they were nothing more than her followers. We have already listened to a lot of her tapes. "Arrangements have been made and carried out for Daw Suu Kyi and her family to smoothly carry out their health and social matters and religious affairs when her movement was restricted.... Her husband Michael Aris visited Myanmar...twice.... He sent letters and goods to Daw Suu Kyi 48 times from abroad through the British Emba;ssy. Daw Suu Kyi also sent letters to Michael Aris 33 times. The responsible personnel have made arrangements that letters and goods reached to them without fail. In July, 1990, her husband Michael Aris sent letters and goods through the British Embassy. When the responsible personnel went and gave these letters and good she rudely treated them and did not accept [them]. [Her] husband Michael Aris, a British citizen, shed crocodile tears and declared to the world and international organizations that there was no longer any contact with her even through letters beginning 17 July 1990. "We are not responsible for Daw Suu Kyi not writing to her own husband. We have not probibited her from writing to her husband. They have their own reasons for not writing to one another. It is not our concern that they do not write to one another and do not accept the other's letters. I would like to say that it is their own private matter. "There...as been much foreign support and interferences from external sources during the period in which Daw Suu Kyi has been restricted.... Foreign radio stations such as BBC, VOA and AIR made broadcasts and foreign periodicals featured Daw Suu Kyi in such a way as to make her appear to be some sort of heroine of democracy. Furthermore, the Oxford University awarded her the title of honorary research scholar on the the 11th month of her being placed under restriction. "The Europe Parliament presented her Sakharov award on 10-7-90.... The Taunus Rusto Memorial Human Rights Organization from Norway also gave her Rusto International Human Rights award for 1990. The Nobel Peace Prize Committee from Norway presented her the Nobel Peace Prize recently. If one studies these moves one will realize how everything becomes very clear-cut according to the expression `Those who look will see'...." "On the other hand, certain external organizations are giving not only psychological but also material support to terrorist organizations. It has been found firm evidence of Daw Suu Kyi's having contact with terrorist organizations. The meeting of the [NLD] Central Executive Committee...on 11-12-91 decided that Daw Suu Kyi should be expelled as a NLD member as there was reliable evidence that she has violated the law of the land.... [This] has nothing to do with us, it is their own inner-party affair. "If one studies...the evidence... one will find that Daw Suu Kyi accused the Tatmadaw of being a fascist army, and treated the Tatmadaw vindictively as if it were her enemy. The Tatmadaw cannot accept that in any way. Therefore our stand is very clear. She may join her family if she wishes. If she returns quietly we will allow her to do so. The [SLORC] Government and the Tatmadaw cannot accept Daw Suu Kyi in any way for the well-being of the country, race, religion and Sasana. It is purely a matter of our internal affair. It is but a personal matter. If it is to be chosen as to whether the nation's interest or a person's interest should be given priority, the nation's interest must be given priority. We regard the external interferences on the grounds of Daw Suu Kyi as moves to dictate to and apply pressure on our country. We pay no attention to such threats...." :U Aung Gyi "U Aung Gyi [was] once Vice-Chief of Staff (Army) with the rank of Brigadier-General...but he was permitted to resign on 7 March 1963.... There were reasons for that--inside matters. Those have been shown to those who should know them...." "After he had resigned thus, he, together with his associates, went round various parts of Myanmar...and covertly carried out anti-governmental activities. For example...in Shan State...[he] asked the price of ...goods and said in a very loud voice that the goods had become very expensives...because of the socialist economic system.... During the disturbances of 1988 he cleverly and tactfully distributed a 41-page pamphlet...." "Before U Nu left Myanmar...U Aung Gyi had known U Nu's plans of going abroad and starting armed insurrection...but he failed to report this .... U Aung Gyi wrote letters...in 1972 saying that [Operation Htawpaing against the expatriates] was like applying ointment where there was no swelling and sent the letters to the leaders of the State with a view to diverting their attention ...." "The KNU Nga Mya's terrorist group ...was able to prolong its evil existance because of the appearance of the expatriate group led by U Nu...." "Moreover...U Aung Gyi made a swindler named Bodaw Tin Oo his mentor.... Bodaw Tin Oo was a swindler who was famous for his involvement with women, grabbing of money and in cheating others using the names of State leaders.... [He] died in Maesod in the other country on 6-1-91. "U Aung Gyi wrote all sorts of letters of instigation...prior to 8-8-88 period. He is the one who interpreted LDC as `the poorest country'...." "After the coming into existence of the Union Nationals Democracy Party, U Aung Gyi became its patron and...was involved in legal cases [including a suit about room rent] .... The recent case in which he was involved was that he...did what was not in accord with law in connection with the bird-nests' business on Mali Island in Tanintharyi...." :U Nu "U Nu wrote to the students [on] 17 August 1988 [that] `Ba Ba (U Nu) is now 82 years old. My mind is totally more inclined to supramundane affairs than mundane affairs--too much inclined to get out of them ....'" "U Nu...who said that he would carry out only religious work, formed the League for Democracy and Peace (Temporary)...on 29 August 1988.... On 9 September 1988 U Nu... declared that he had taken back the post of prime minister in accordance with the constitution of 1947...." "At present there have appeared two unlawful prime ministers. They are `prime minister' of the parallel government U Nu and `prime minister' Sein Win of the parallel government in the jungles...." [Extensive discussion, repeating familiar themes, on the 1990 election, need for a new Constitution, ingratitude of pension-receiving politicians, war on narcotics, etc.] Human Rights "The Amnesty International...and the Human Rights Watch...are criticizing and interfering in the internal affairs of the nations. [Since May 1988] they made planned attacks [against Myanmar] more extensively. They are found to be instigating the people to mistruct the government giving excuses of human rights violations. In most cases their criticisms are based on false reports and rumours. Foreign broadcasting stations and publications relate such attacks with relish...." "It will be improper to make allegations of human rights volations against small nations for their different administrative systems compared with theirs. In practising the freedom of expression, freedom of press, freedom of living, freedom of movement and freedom of learning it will be impossible for a nation like Myanmar...to be the same as industrialized Western nations. Because cultural traditions and customs are different. The kind of absolute freedom--the freedom with no restraint--should not be allowed whatsoever in our country where Buddhism flourishes. Indigenous races born in Myanmar...and Easterners alone will understand that our people are bounded by the teachings of the Lord Buddha and cultural traditions and customs of the indigenous peoples. Every Myanmar citizen knows that there is freedom of expression, of press, of movement, of learning and of worshipping in accordance with religion, cutlure, laws and rules of the country...." :External Instigation "Some foreign broadcasting stations, especially the VOA and the BBC, have been broadcasting news items aimed at misleading the people of Myanmar...such as the news items about the submission of the list of names for the Nobel Prize for Peace for 1990 on 1-2-91, the announcement of the winners of Nobel Prize on 14-10-91 and the presentation of the Nobel Prize in Oslo, Norway, on 10-12-91...." "Not only the foreign broadcasting stations have been instigating telling in advance what will happen so that what they say will happen but also some dishonourable foreign embassies have been carrying out instigative activities and spreading false news among the people..... Some have organized some students and youths by giving them money and materials, and turned them into their minions to cause disturbances .... As a result of [such instigation] the institutions of higher learning have been temporarily closed...." "Some foreign nations are thus carrying out black propaganda work and destructive activities with malice to our country and evil intentions.... They are spreading false and fabricated news to discredit the leaders of our State and to sow discord among them and that they are doing this work in accordance to a plan laid down...." :College & University Closure [Summary of disturbances on Dec. 10-11, 1991]. "It has been uncovered that the disturbances were caused by some students who carry out activities on the pretext of students union such as BCP UG group, the Ba Ka Tha, and the Ma Ka Tha. Some students who have had contacts with the terrorist organizations in the jungles and some youths from the Youth Group of the National League for Democracy...." "Ko Ko Gyi and some students from the unlawful Ba Ka Tha group, some members of the Democratic Party for New Society...and National League for Democracy Youth Group ex-member Myat San and group had discussed the plan of causing disturbances...in synchronization with the external instigations and then created the disturbances on the Yangon University (main) campus. Ba Htoo Maung and Zaw Min (a) Dewedat from Ma Ka Tha, another student organization, also took part in the disturbance .... Moreover, some students and youths who have contacts with the employees of some embassies and who got presents such as liquor, cigarettes also took part in the activities as instigated by them..... Some diplomats themselves came and watched the students making disturbances on the Yangon University (main) campus and felt satisfied and delighted. Hla Min from the Kyimyindine [NLD] who sells Monhinga and Aung Myo Hsan, a mason, and NLD youths including the person in charge of the Kamayut Township [NLD] took part ...." "Yin Htwe (Third year Botany) and Kyaw Kyaw Oo (Third year Botany) of the 102 battalion ABSDF terrorist group led the disturbances...." "Those who created disturbances were not the students from universities and colleges and the closing... brought no suffering and damage to these people because they were not students at all.... Teachers and education workers are not entirely free from responsibility.... There were weaknesses on the part of teachers in preventing students from being swayed by disturbance makers, in preventing the spread of disturbances and in protecting students from danger. Projects were not drawn up by teachers [to?] pre-empt students who want to create disturbances...." [Display of documents, etc.] (WPD 12/25; photos of display 12/26) ELECTIONS Party Registration Changes Party registration changes announced by the General Election Commission [in order of Party]. (2) National League for Democracy. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is expelled from the Party, as of Dec. 11, 1991. (WPD 12/16) [see text under POLITICAL CRISIS, above] (18) Democratic Party for New Society. De-registered by Election Commission for contacts with KNU, Dec. 6, 1991. [see above under POLITICAL CRISIS] (WPD 12/7) (55) Peasants' Unity Organization. Central Organizing Committee member U Mang Lian has died. (WPD 12/16) (84) Karen State National Organization. Registration cancelled at the request of Party Executive Committee, Dec. 27, 1991. (WPD 12/28) (96) Arakan Nationalities Democracy Party. CEC member U Saw Thein has resigned. (WPD 12/16) (151) Peasants' Development Party. GS U Khin Maung has resigned. (WPD 12/16) Hluttaw Member Resigns Dec. 5: Election Commission Announcement No. 982 of Dec. 5, authorizes Kachin State National Congress for Democracy representative U Zaw Ein (Sumprabum) to resign [no reason given]. (WPD 12/6) Twenty-nine Hluttaws Ousted Dec. 10: Election Commission Announcement No. 984 of Dec. 10 ousts five Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected 27 May, 1990, all from the National League for Democracy, because of convictions against them: U Kyi Maung (Bahann-2): Section 5(j) of Emergency Provisions Act, 1950 [EPA 1950] and Sections 6(2)(b) & 6(3) of the Official Secrets Act; U Soe Thein (Waw-2): Sections 5(a), (b) and (j) of the EPA 1950; U Myo Aung (Dawei-2): Same; U Kyaw Min (Pathein-West-2): Same; U Bo Moung (Dabayin-1): Section 143 of the Penal Code. They no longer have the right to continue to stand as Pyithu Hluttaw representatives-elect and their names have been cancelled from the list of Pyithu Hluttaw representatives-elect. They have no right to contest elections to be held within 10 years. (WPD 12/11) Dec. 18: Election Commission Announcement No. 986 of Dec. 18 ousts five Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected on 27 May, 1990, all from the National League for Democracy, who have been convicted under Section 122(1) of the Penal Code: U Kyaw Thwin (Kayan 1); U Khin Maung Swe (Sangyoung); U Khin Maung Thein (Khin-U-1); Daw Khin San Hlaing (Wetlet-2); U Chit Tin (Minhla). Their elections are therefore cancelled and they "shall have no right to contest the elections to be held in the future." (WPD 12/19) Dec. 20: Election Commission Announcement No. 987 of Dec. 208 ousts five Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected May 27, 1990, four from the National League for Democracy and one independent, because of convictions against them: U Win Hlaing (Tatkon-2): Sections 5(a), (b), and (j) of the Emergency Provisions Act, 1950 [EPA, 1950]; U Chan Aye (Mawlamyine-2): Same; U Soe Nyunt (Kyauktan-2): Same; U Tin Htut (Einme-1): Same; U Lian Ok (Independent) (Hakha): Section 5(j) of the EPA, 1950. They may not contest elections for 10 years. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 23: Election Commission Announcement No. 988 of Dec. 23 ousts five Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected May 27, 1990, all from the National League for Democracy, because of convictions against them under Section 122(1) of the Penal Code: U Sein Hla Oo (Insein-2); Daw San San (Seikkan); Daw San San Win (Ahlon); U Saw Hlaing (Indaw); Dr. U Soe Lin (Mandalay SW-1). They may not contest future elections. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 27: Election Commission Announcement No. 991 of Dec. 27 ousts five Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected 27 May, 1990, four from the National League for Democracy and one from the Democratic Organization for Kayan National Unity, because of convictions against them: U R.P. Thaung (DOKNU) (Thandaung-1): Section 5(j) of the Emergency Provisions Act, 1950; U Ohn Kyaing (NLD) (Mandalay SE-2): Sections 5(a), (b) and (J) of the EPA, 1950; U Zaw Myint Maung (NLD) (Amarapura-1): Section 122(1) of the Penal Code; U Tin Aung Aung (NLD) (Mandalay NW-1): Same; Dr. Zaw Myint (NLD) (Hinthada-2): Same. The first two are barred from running in elections for ten years; the other three are barred permanently. (WPD 12/28) Dec. 31: Election Commission Announcement No. 992 of Dec. 30 ousts four Pyithu Hluttaw representatives elected 27 May, 1990, all from the National League for Democracy, because of convictions against them under Section 122(1) of the Penal Code: U Tun Aung (Yedashay-2); U Ye Htut (Daik-U-1); U Ba Bwa (Amarapura-2); U Nine Nine (Pazaundaung). They are permanently barred from future elections. (WPD 12/31) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Dec. 3: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Energy and for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. \\ Thai Ambassador Surapong Posayanond on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 12/4) Dec. 4: The Thai Ambassador on Minister for Energy and for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. \\ The Egyptian Ambassador on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin bin Abdullah on Minister for Energy and for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. \\ Korean Ambassador Hang Kyung Kim on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 6: The Malaysian Ambassador, on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. \\ Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. \\ Thai Ambassador Surapong Posayanond on Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 10: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint, and on Election Commission Chairman U Ba Htay. \\ Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin bin Abdullah on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein, and on Attorney-General U Tha Tun. (WPD 12/11) Dec. 17: The Malaysian Ambassador on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries and for Agriculture & Forests Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 12/18) Dec. 20: The Malaysian Ambassador on Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 23: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Construction and for Co-operatives Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 24: The Egyptian Ambassador on Attorney-General U Tha Tun. (WPD 12/25) Dec. 27: Malaysian Ambassador Sallehuddin bin Abdullah on SLORC Vice-Chairman Gen. Than Shwe. (WPD 12/28) Dec. 30: WHO Representative Dr. Klaus Wagner on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 12/31) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Dec. 2: The Myanmar government has approved the nomination of Mr. Philip Henry Gibson as New Zealand Ambassador to Myanmar. Ambassador Gibson was born Aug. 25, 1949 in Dunedin, and graduated from the University of Otago with an M.A.Hons. degree. He served as "Third Secretary of Defence, External Aid, European Divisions in Wellington, Second Secretary...in Rome, Second Secretary of Middle East and African Division, Executive Assistant to the Minister..., First Secretary...Mission to the UN, New York, Counsellor and Consul-General...Manila. He also served as Director of Planning and Liaison Unit and is currently serving as Director of South/South East Asian Division." (WPD 12/2) Dec. 17: The Myanmar government has approved the nomination of Mr. Xavier R. Van Migem as Belgian Ambassador to Myanmar. Ambassador Van Migem was born in 1939 and graduated as a Commerce Engineer. He joined the diplomatic service in 1970 and has served in New York, Beijing, Vancouver, and Johannesburg. He has also served as Ambassador to Iraq. He is married, and will reside in Dhaka, Bangladesh. (WPD 12/17) Fishermen Repatriated Dec. 14: A first group of Myanmar fishermen who drifted "to the coastal areas of neighbouring countries" during storms were repatriated by air from Port Blair, India [Andaman Islands]. 77 out of 380 came back. Arrangements are under way for repatriation of the remaining fishermen from other countries. (WPD 12/ 15) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Foreign Donations Including donations by Joint Ventures, etc. See also Ayeyarwady Flood relief. Dec. 4: Foreign firms have donated K3 million in articles and cash for the Yangon Mayor's Cup marathon and relay race around the circular road. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Sanwa Trading Co. Ltd. (Japan & Myanmar) donated K200,000; Asia Co-ordination Co. Ltd. K10,000; and Boston Associates (Singapore) Co. Ltd. K10,000; as prizes for the Chairman's Bowl Third Traditional Boat Festival. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 6: Mr. Okuyama Daijiro of Shonan Setsubi Kogyo Ltd. of Japan donated 3 ambulances, surgical equipment, X-ray film and medicine worth US$65,000 to the Ministry of Health. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 10: Myanmar Sea Fisher's Joint Venture Enterprise donated K10,000 to the Third Myanmar Traditional Boat Festival. (WPD 12/ 10) Dec. 16: Donations totalling K3.8 million have been received for the Boat Festival; recent donations include: Wooshin Sanghap Co. Ltd., K50,000; Myanmar-American Fishery Co. Ltd., K10,000; Myanmar International Hotel Co. Ltd., K30,000; PL International PTE Ltd., K50,000; Pepsi-Cola Product Myanmar Co. Ltd., K30,000; New Fishing Australia PTY Ltd., K10,000. \\ Managing Director Mr. Sun Ryang Chung of Daewoo Electronics Myanmar Co. Ltd. donated two colour TV sets for the Youth Rehabilitation Centre. (WPD 12/17) Dec. 26: General Manager U Hla Min of Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise donated to the Myanma Cultural Regatta K10,000 on behalf of Popa Services; and K10,000 on behalf of Haliburton Geophysical Services, Eastman Christensen Co., and PAE Pte. Ltd. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 30: Yangon Garment Manufacturing Co., Ltd., a joint venture between Myanma Textile Industries and Value Industries Ltd. of Hong Kong, donated dental equipment worth K5,037 for military hospitals. (WPD 12/31) Hiroshima Peace Stone Nov. 30: The Stone was hailed by 350,000 people as it arrived Nov. 29, and was taken in procession to the Pyithu Hluttaw building. \\ On Nov. 30, Chairman Mr. Akira Hashimoto of the Stone for Peace Association, on behalf of the people of Hiroshima, handed over the Stone of Hiroshima Pledging Peace to State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt [photos]. \\ Text of Mr. Hashimoto's remarks, recalling bombing of Hiroshima. Myanmar Peace Symbol (Conch with lotus flower, surrounded with Eugenia leaves). \\ Mr. Hashimoto called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 1: The Stone was taken to the Pyidaungsu Ayeyeikyein Flower Show room in the People's Square. \\ Mr. Hashimoto and his delegation left for home. (WPD 12/2) UN Border Area Projects Dec. 11: A coordination meeting was held between the Co-ordination Body for Co-operation with International Organizations for the Development of Border Areas and National Races, the UNDP Office, the UN Capital Development Fund, and the Office of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races, to discuss rural water supply, building of roads linking villages and projects in the eastern sector of the Kengtung region. The group made field trips to Kokang and Wa regions from Nov. 18-25 and to the eastern Kengtung region from Nov. 30-Dec. 7. (WPD 12/12) Chinese Railway Equipment Dec. 16: A Letter of Intent for the purchase of rails, engines, coaches, linkages, and rail maintenance equipment from Huaxin Hainan Development Construction and Business Company was signed by Myanma Railways Managing Director U Win Sein and Huaxin Hainan Co. representative Mr. Yang Fu. The goods are worth about US$ 20 million, which will be loaned without interest by the Huaxin Hainan Co. (WPD 12/17) Myanmar-Lao Boundary Group Dec. 18: The Myanmar-Lao Joint Boundary Commission held its second meeting on Dec. 17-18, under the leadership of Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw and visiting Lao Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Soubanh Srithirath. (WPD 12/19) // Dec. 19: A Foreign Ministry Press Release reviewed the meeting and said the next third meeting would be held in Laos. (WPD 12/20) FOREIGN VISITORS Business Visitors Dec. 6: Daewoo Corporation Vice-President Mr. Gil Yong Um and General Manager Mr. D.W. Lee called on Minister for Transport & Communications and for Social Welfare and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss Myanma Railways, Myanma Airways, Road Transport, and Myanma Five Star Line. (WPD 12/7) [see also under ECONOMIC: Construction] Dec. 9: General Manager Mr. Richard Bergart of G.E Alsthom International of France called on Minister for Transport & Communications and for Social Welfare and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss railways. (WPD 12/10) Dec. 11: Chairman Mr. M. Niwa of Gold Maritime Co. Ltd. of Japan called on Minister for Transport & Communications and for Social Welfare and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss Myanmar Five Star Line. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 18: President Kenneth Cheung of Styland Holdings Ltd. of Hong Kong called on Minister for Transport & Communications and for Social Welfare and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss road transport and hotel projects. (WPD 12/19) Academic and Non-Profit Visitors Dec. 4: Professor Sira Boonyaratavej, President of the Asian Surgical Association and Chairman of the Thai Board of Neurosurgery will lecture Dec. 6 at the Myanmar Medical Association on Postgraduate Training in Surgical Specialties in Thailand. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Five Soviet youths, who arrived in Yangon on Nov. 11, were novitiated, and will be ordained as monks on Dec. 12. They are among 9 youths who will study Theravada Buddhism. \\ Director Prof. Tonetaro Ito of the Sasakawa Memorial Health Foundation called on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 9: A four-member delegation headed by Prof. Dr. Teruo Higa, President of Asia-Pacific Natural Agricultural Network (APNAN) in Bangkok arrived. (WPD 12/10) // Dec. 10: It called on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein, and donated US$3,750 for "effective micro organisms research" and "Kyusei nature farming" work in Myanmar. (WPD 12/11) Dec. 13: Two French academics, Ms. Sylvie Ballet, In-charge of Technical Cooperation and Foreign Scholarships at the French Foreign Ministry, and Prof. Dr. Pierre Foldes from the Medicins Du Monde, called on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein to discuss medical and health cooperation. (WPD 12/14) Dec. 24: Prof. Hamashima of Kyoto Women's University, Japan, called on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 12/25) International Agency Visitors Dec. 9: Executive Director Mr. J.E. Ismael of the International Monetary Fund called on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 12/10) Dec. 18: Executive Director Mr. Tan Son Chuan of the Asian Development Bank called on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 12/19) Laotian & Cambodian Sayadaws Nov. 30: The visiting Sayadaws visited pagodas in Mandalay on Nov. 29. (WPD 12/1) // Dec. 1: On Nov. 30 they visited Taunggyi and Inlay. (WPD 12/2) // Dec. 3: They visited pagodas and historic sites in Bago. (WPD 12/4) // Dec. 4: They departed for home. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 25: The remaining robes and offeratories to Laotian and Cambodian Sayadaws were handed over at Wampon Village, Tachilek Twp. [Shan]. (WPD 12/26) Thai Agriculture Minister Nov. 30: The delegation led by Thai Minister of Agriculture and Co-operatives Dr. Anat Arbhabhirama visited pagodas in Bago. (WPD 12/1) Philippine Foreign Secretary Dec. 3: Visiting Philippine Foreign Secretary Raul S. Manglapus called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Gen. Than Shwe. \\ He visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, and held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. \\ He called on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. \\ He called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries and for Agriculture & Forests Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 12/4) Dec. 4: He called on Election Committee Chairman U Ba Htay, on Chief Justice U Aung Toe, and on Attorney-General U That Tun, and toured the National Museum and other Yangon sights. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Foreign Secretary Manglapus left. A Press Communique issued at the end of his visit, in addition to reviewing his activities, said that: "The Secretary...enquired unofficially about individuals who are under restrictions due to infringement of the law in Myanmar Naing-Ngan. He was informed that action was taken in accordance with the law of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, that Myanmar is not concerned by the pressure of the one-sided propaganda carried out by some countries with misconceptions and will continue to defend and safeguard the three main national causes...." (WPD 12/6) Chinese Delegations Dec. 11: A delegation of Chinese writers headed by Mr. Han Xiao arrived, and called on Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 12/12) // Dec. 20: The delegation returned from a Dec. 13-19 tour of Bagan, Mt. Popa, Mandalay, Pyin Oo Lwin, Sagaing, Taunggyi, and Innlay Lake. (WPD 12/21) // Dec. 23: It toured Yangon. (WPD 12/23) // Dec. 23: It visited Bago. (WPD 12/24) // Dec. 24: It visited down-town Yangon, including the National Museum. (WPD 12/25) // Dec. 25: The delegation returned home. (WPD 12/26) Dec. 20: A delegation headed by Deputy Director-General Mr. Qian Guan Lin of the Chinese Customs Department met with Secretary Police Brig-Gen. Maung Toe of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC). (WPD 12/21) // Dec. 26: It called on Mandalay Police Commander Col. Ni Than, to hear about anti-drug activities. (WPD 12/27) Dec. 25: A 3-member delegation headed by Deputy Director Mr. Liu Guoneng of the National Archives Bureau of China arrived. (WPD 12/26) // Dec. 26: The delegation called on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 12/ 27) Lao Vice Foreign Minister Dec. 16: A delegation led by Lao Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Soubanh Srithirath, arrived to attend the Second Meeting of the Myanmar-Lao Joint Boundary Commission [see above], and called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. It will remain until Dec. 20. (WPD 12/17) // Dec. 17: The delegation called on State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 12/18) // Dec. 19: The delegation left. (WPD 12/20) Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Dec. 17: Japanese Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Kunihiko Saito arrived and called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. He is accompanied by Myanmar Desk Officer Mr. Ichiro Maruyama. (WPD 12/18) // Dec. 18: He called on Election Commission Chairman U Ba Htay. // Dec. 19: He called on Minister for Energy and for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, and on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. Then he left for home. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 19: A Foreign Ministry Press Release, after noting the Minister's meetings, said: "The Deputy Foreign Minister discussed matters regarding developments in Myanmar in which Japan took interest due to its good-will towards Myanmar. These matters were:--the step by step developments regarding construction of the political process following the election, Myanmar's response to some of the points in the draft resolution submitted in the United Nations General Assembly, and proposed action to be taken, under the existing laws, against persons who have had restrictions imposed upon them. "The Myanmar side advised him that not only were these matters internal affairs of Myanmar, but also, as a matter of national cause, the Government was carrying out the maintenance of law and order and the preservation of peace and tranquillity, as well as the successful completion of the objectives already laid down. The Myanmar side also reiterated that plans were being carried out for the drawing up of a firm constitution of all national races of the Union." (WPD 12/20) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Nov. 30: Electrical/Mechanical Technician U San Hlaing of the Medical Research Department left for Germany to attend a course on Glass Fabrication Techniques under UNDP auspices. \\ Deputy Director U Kan Myint of the General Administration Department, Ministry of Home & Religious Affairs, left for Italy for a six-month Specialization Course for Administrators of Development, beginning Dec. 2. \\ Managing Director U Thawda Sein of Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services left for Bangkok to attend the International Seminar on Build-Operate-Turnover (B.O.T.) Project Financing/Implementation held Dec. 2-6 under ESCAP sponsorship. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 6: A three-member delegation led by Managing Director U Myint Thein of No. 3 Mining Enterprise left for Nepal to attend a Dec. 9-13 Workshop on Technology Transfer Arrangements for Selected Developing Countries of Asia and the Pacific. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 7: Deputy Director U Tun Hla Kyaw of Myanmar Hotels and Tourism Services left for New Delhi to attend the Dec. 9-19 Advanced Course on Tourism Destination Marketing and the Dec. 20 Terminal Tripartite Review Meeting. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 11: A delegation led by Managing Director U Soe Nyunt (Htila Sitthu) (Chairman of the Union of Myanmar Literary and Journalist Organization) left on a two-week study tour of Yunnan Province, China, "to exchange literary experiences." Members are Managing Director U Myint Soe (Writer-Theikpan Soe) of the Printing and Publishing Enterprise, Lecturer Dr. Thein Nyunt (Poet Nyunt Wai, Katha) of Yangon General Hospital, Deputy General Manager (Admin) U Maung Maung Latt (Poet-Naung) of the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, Staff Orricer U Tin Hlaing (Writer-Laidwintha Saw Chit) of the Press Scrutiny and Registration Division, and Professor of Physiology Dr. Maung Maung Nyo (Writer-Dr. Maung Maung Nyo) of the Yangon Institute of Medicine-1. (WPD 12/12) // Dec. 25: The delegation returned. (WPD 12/26) Delegations to Meetings Nov. 30: Director U Nyunt Win of the Department of Labour left for Nepal to attend the 3rd Governmental Seminar on the United Nations Volunteers, being held in Kathmandu from Dec. 1-6. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 14: Deputy Director U Chit Sein of the Department of Labour left for Thailand to attend the Dec. 16-20 Regional Meeting of Directors of Employment Service in Pattaya. (WPD 12/15) Delegations Return Return of delegations to programs and meetings who left in previous months: Nov. 30: The delegation headed by Attorney-General U Tha Tun returned from the Paris ministerial-level meeting on crime prevention and administration of justice. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 9: The delegation headed by Red Cross Chairman Dr. Hla Nwe and Honorary Secretary Dr. Ko Ko Gyi returned from the 28th International Red Cross Conference held in Budapest on Nov. 25. (WPD 12/10) Dec. 11: The delegation led by CEC Chairman Maj-Gen. Tun Tin (retd.) of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan War Veteran Organization returned from Yunnan Province, China. Other members were Maj-Gen. Aung Khin (retd.), Maj-Gen. Taungza Kaing (retd.), Col. Min Naung (retd.), Lt-Col. Thaung Tin (retd.), and U Ye Shwe. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 26: The Myanmar delegation to the 46th UNGA session in New York, including Foreign Minister Director-General of Consular, International Law and Treaties and Research Department U Aye Lwin, Directors U Khin Maung Win and U Mya Than, Assistant Director U Paw Lwin Sein, and Heads of Section U Hla Myint and U Aung Htoo, returned to Yangon. (WPD 12/ 27) MYANMAR GAZETTE Appointments Confirmed The SLORC confirmed the following appointments, after one year's probation: Dec. 11: U Nyunt Maung as Managing Director, Myanma Farms Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture & Forests. (WPD 12/12) GOVERNMENT National Day Message Dec. 1: State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung's message for the 71st Anniversary National Day [text]: To the people of all the national races, Today is the 71st Anniversary of the National Day. Since the National Day is a day of great significance in the history of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, I send my greetings to all of you on this auspicious occasion. The National Day is not only an unforgettable day but also a milestone in the history of the struggle for the independence of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. The British imperialists captured lower Myanmar Naing-Ngan on 20 December 1852 and annexed upper Myanmar Naing-Ngan on 1 January 1886 and thus turned the whole of Myanmar Naing-Ngan into a colony of theirs enslaving the entire people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. From that time onwards the British imperialists made huge profits by looting, seizing and exploiting all the national resources in the whole of Myanmar Naing-Ngan such as rice, teak and oil. They not only took out countless amounts of our precious natural resources such as teak and timber, minerals, and gems but also oppressed and tortured the people during a period of nearly 100 years. The people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, never reconciling themselves to their being enslaved, fought against the British imperialists with undaunted spirit in the whole country by various means. The colonial government promulgated the Yangon University Act on 1 December 1920. Since it was an act that not only enforced the colonial education system but also would prolong their civil enslavement of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, the students of the Yangon College launched the Boycott movement at the Shwedagon Pagoda in protest against the Yangon University Act on 5 December 1920--on 10th Waning of Tazaungmon, 1282 ME. That boycott was an attack--a great blow--not only against the colonial education system but also against the political restrictions and suppression and the economic exploitation of the British imperialists as well as the one-sided oppressive measures taken against the Myanmars under their bureaucratic administrative machinery. Of all the anti-imperialist struggles and national liberation struggles, the National Day became the symbol of a struggle of great traditions because the Boycott movement was the first open political struggle launched by the Myanmars against the British imperialists. The Boycott of 1920 filled the minds of the entire people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan with the spirit of patriotism and nationalism and kept it alive and dynamic. It also instilled in their minds the will and desire to make personal sacrifices for the country and the race and brought about its maturity. Moreover, it also gave birth in their minds the National Solidarity Spirit that made them realize that they would be able to win victory over the British imperialists only if the entire masses of the people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan were united. As the Boycott of 1920 not only sounded a clarion call for the struggle for independence of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, but also repeatedly brought into being revolutionary forces that fought for independence, that Boycott movement was referred to as a movement that set the people on the path leading towards Myanmar Naing-Ngan's independence. Today the imperialists are making their utmost efforts, by violent means, to re-establish their domination and rule of Myanmar Naing-Ngan employing neo-colonialist methods. They are especially resorting to such means as employing internal axe-handles and minions in order to undermine and destroy the solidarity of the national races, to sow discord and disunity within the Tatmadaw and to cause disintegration of the State. Therefore, recalling and realizing the true, deep and significant meaning and essence of the National Day, all the people of the national races of Myanmar Naing-Ngan must, with full patriotic spirit, resist and repulse the dangers posed by the imperialists. Therefore, in my greeings to all of you on this auspicious occasion, I urge the people of all the national races to hold in their esteem "Our Three Main National Causes"--non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuity of sovereignty--and under the leadership of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, to resist and repulse the dangers posed by the imperialists. (WPD 12/1) Independence Day Objectives (1992) 44th Anniversary of the Independence Day National Objectives * For all the citizens to join hands with one another for ensuring the perpetuity of national independence and sovereignty; * To keep alive and dynamic the love for independence, nationalism and nationalist fervour; * For all the citizens to join hands with the Tatmadaw and work in unity for bringing about development of national economy; and * To keep patriotism alive and dynamic. (WPD 12/7) Land Management Notification Dec. 12: Myanmar Central Committee for Management of Culturable Land, Fallow Land and Waste Land Notification No. 1 of Dec. 12 [full text published] provides that the Committee "may grant to citizens for agricultural and livestock breeding purposes the right to cultivate/right to utilize culturable land, fallow land and waste land up to the extent mentioned below:- (with periods of land revenue tax exemption) (a) Agriculture: (i) Plantation Crops, 5000 acres (8 years tax exemption); (ii) Orchard, 3000 acres (6 years); (iii) Seasonal Crops, 1000 acres (3 years). (b) Livestock, Poultry Farming and Aquaculture: (i) Aquaculture, 2000 acres (3 years); (ii) Livestock and Poultry Farming--(aa) buffalo, cattle, horse, 5000 acres (8 years); (bb) sheep, goat, 1000 acres (4 years); (cc) poultry, pig, 500 acres (2 years)." Applications by foreigners are referred to the Foreign Investment Commission. Regulations are provided for applications. A "deposit of 10% of the investment as security fees" is required. Exemption from land revenue tax is provided [see above] as well as "at least" 3 years income tax exemption is provided, until commercial production is attained. Rights granted are good for 30 years, so long as conditions are observed, and for Seasonal crops are indefinite. (WPD 12/20) MILITARY Insurgent Attacks Dec. 14: The Tatmadaw on Dec. 13 found KNU explosives, consisting of 100 packets of gelignite, a detonator, and 10 feet of fuse, on the Thaton/Myaingalay railway near Nyaungkyant Village [Mon], four miles from Duyinseik. (WPD 12/15) Insurgents Surrender Dec. 18: Five KIA terrorists surrendered at the Sikhangyi Camp on Dec. 7 [names and details]. (WPD 12/ 19) Dec. 22: Between Nov. 8-15, 14 terrorists surrendered with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 12/ 23) Dec. 23: Between Nov. 19-29, 18 terrorists surrendered with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 12/24) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Dec. 2,5,7,24,26,31: The Regions of our Brethren: Where the State Law and Order Restoration Council's Goodwill Blossoms Forth, by Ngwe Kalaung. [Cont. Development in Wa and Kokang regions.] Dec. 8,11,14-15,16(4 pp),21(4 pp), 30 (4pp): The Records of the Construction of Roads and Bridges during the time of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, by Mya Kalaung. [Cont. {from Nov. 20} Record of recent projects.] Construction and Other Projects Dec. 5: The Kawthoung motel [Tanintharyi] was inaugurated Dec. 1. \\ Stage II of the Myanma Railways Modernization Project was inaugurated Dec. 4 at the Myitnge Carriage and Wagon Workshop in Amarapura Twp. [Mandalay], in the presence of Japanese and Korean diplomats and Daewoo Corp. Vice-President Mr. Gil Yong Um and Daewoo Heavy Industries Ltd. General Manager Mr. Soo Hwan Kim. Stage I was begun in 1983 with a Japanese loan of Yen 6,234 million and executed by Daewoo Corp. Of the 71 passenger coaches, 20 were purchased and the other 51 built in the workshop. Of 100 freight wagons, 75 were built by the workshop. Stage II with an OECF loan for Yen 6,020 million was also awarded to Daewoo. It was temporarily suspended for 2 1/2 years, but amended and re-signed in Sept. 1990 with a value of Yen 2,969 million. Under it, 20 passenger coaches and 20 freight wagons will be constructed in "fully knock down condition, after purchasing prototypes." Installation of machinery worth Yen 541 million began in July 1991 and was completed in October. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 6: A new annexe to the Thaton Home for the Aged [Mon] was handed over on Dec. 4. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 7: The Chin Weikzalaya Sarthintaik in Yangon was inaugurated. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 11: The new Hlinethaya Bailey pontoon bridge [Yangon] was inaugurated. Constructed between Aug. 1-Nov. 30, 1991, it cost K9,419,869. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 14: The "Myatamar" hostel for ladies at Mandalay University was inaugurated Dec. 7. The three-storey building cost K18 million and can accommodate over 200 students. (WPD 12/15) Dec. 18: A telephone exchange and building were inaugurated in Einme Twp. [Ayeyarwady] on Dec. 9. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 19: South-West Commander Maj-Gen. Myint Aung attended the Dec. 18 inauguration of the New Pathein Hotel. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 30: The Nyaungchaydauk telephone exchange was inaugurated Dec. 26 in Oktwin Twp. [Bago]. (WPD 12/ 31) Advertisements GREETING CARDS Printed in Singapore NOW AVAILABLE AT TOURIST DEPARTMENT STORES, MYANMAR-SINGAPORE DEPARTMENT STORES AND INYA LAKE HOTEL (WPD 12/2) --- ALC TEL ALSTHOM GEC ALSTHOM ALC TEL Wishing a MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR for the Coming Economic Year, Bright future, PEACE and HAPPINESS to the Myanmar Naing-Ngan peoples. ******* Supplier to MYANMA RAILWAYS of 150 Diesel Electric Locomotives, 900-1200-2000 H.P. from 1958-1991 (33 years). Successful collaboration in Rehabilitation of Locomotives in Insein Workshop from 1981-1991 (10 years). On Behalf of GEC ALSTHOM INTERNATIONAL (Yangon Branch) RICHARD BERGARD, GENERAL MANAGER 55 GOLDEN VALLEY Tel:30355 Fax:32456 (WPD 12/17) --- Please pay a visit! TEMPLE de PSYCHE (ART GALLERY) Sweet December Special X'mas Show - 21-12-91 (Saturday) 09;00-a.m. - No.40 MYA STREET - West Race Course road (Kyaikasan) (WPD 12/20) Joint Ventures Dec. 4: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 34/91 of Dec. 4 establishes the private joint venture company Myanmar Electronic Systems Limited "for the purpose of undertaking agency and marketing of electronic products locally and abroad, establishing technical service centre and carrying out general trading," with authorized capital of K 15 million, divided into 1500 shares of K10,000 each, of which 600 are subscribed "in Kyats or in kind" by Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd., represented by its Managing Director, and 900 "in foreign currency or in kind" by Siemens Aktiengesellschaft of Germany, represented by Mr. Peter Holz, 800 Munich 2, WITTELS BACHERPLATE 2, Germany. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 35/91 of Dec. 5 establishes the private joint venture Ban Hock Hin Myanmar Ltd. "for the purpose of assembling, production and marketing of motor cars, motorcycles and scooters, and general trading," with authorized capital of K10 million, divided into 10,000 shares of K1,000, of which 5,000 are subscribed in kyats or in kind by Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd., represented by its Managing Director at Maw Kun Daik St., Dagon Post Office, Yangon, and 5,000 by Ban Hock Hin Co. (Pte) Ltd., represented by General Manager Mr. Tan Richard Kah Chuan of No. 68, Rangon Road, Singapore 0821. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 28: At the Second General Meeting of JVC-3, Chairman U Thein Tun said that in 1990-91 sales were K113 million and profits K37.467 million; in 1991-92 sales were K69.411 million and profits K7.232 million. (WPD 12/29) Chamber of Commerce Dec. 6: The Chin State Chamber of Commerce and Industry was formed Nov. 29, with a 27-member executive committee, and a 15-member central executive committee led by Chairman U Thang Kye O. (WPD 12/6) Border Trade Dec. 9: The Kawthoung Twp. [Tanintharyi] Border Trade Co-ordination Committee Office, represented by Chairman Regimental Commander Maj. Ko Ko Kyaw, the Kawthoung Twp. Border Trade Office, and the Myeik-Kawthoung Border Traders Association, represented by Chairman U Thein Lwin. unveiled signboards on Dec. 3. (WPD 12/10) Flights to Jakarta Dec. 12: Myanma Airways will begin flights to Jakarta, Indonesia, on Jan. 9, 1992. The present Sunday and Thursday flights to Singapore will be extended to Jakarta, as UB-243/ 244, with the following schedule: 07.15 am dep. Yangon 11.45 am arr. Singapore 12.45 pm dep. Singapore 13.20 pm arr. Jakarta 14.20 pm dep. Jakarta 16.55 pm arr. Singapore 17.55 pm dep. Singapore 19.25 pm arr. Yangon (WPD 12/14) Rising Credit Card Use Dec. 17: The use of credit cards in Myanmar has increased from K3.86 million in 1988-89 to K10.46 million in 1990-91. This was announced at a signing ceremony for Visa Credit Cards at the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank. The Bank signed a credit card agreement with American Express in Oct. 1974, and contracts with the PBF Company Ltd. of Malaysia in Apr. 1990 for Master Cards. The Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services and the Myanma Gems Enterprise also accept credit cards. Mr. Jacques Michel of BFCE Bank of Singapore also spoke. (WPD 12/18) Basic Commodities Dec. 18: "The No. 2 Joint-Venture Corporation is selling rice to consumers through its retail shops.... It will also sell rice which will be milled on 19 December and afterwards." (WPD 12/19) Dec. 19: Edible palm oil has arrived on the MV Pinya; more will arrive in the near future. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 20: Ministry of Energy personnel discussed "the programme for distributing more fuel oil (machine oil) so that it may be convenient in purchasing, milling and transporting rice and other economic work during the current open season." (WPD 12/ 21) Dec. 22: Yangon Commander Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt announced said that "the State had been distributing rice and cooking oil through co-operative sector. He said that it was heard, however, that rice and cooking oil distributed by the co-operative societies did not reach the customers fully owing to the misconduct and malpractices of certain co-operative societies and some employees of the co-operative shops. Hence, he said, assistance was sought from Red Cross Brigade and Auxiliary Fire Brigade members to distribute the food items to the customers now on until the end of January 1992.... Prices were not stable owing to irregularities of corrupt service personnel, speculation of prices by self-centred merchants and economic machinations of certain politicians. He said that such people were being exposed and action would be taken against them." (WPD 12/23) Corruption Dec. 23: As a result of exposures of corruption in the Myanmar Fisheries Enterprise, 26 personnel, including the Managing Director, two General Managers, and three Deputy General Managers were dismissed; 15, including one Deputy General manager, were permitted to retire; and nine, including the Director General of Planning and Statistics Department of the Ministry of Livestock Breeding & Fisheries and the Director-General of the Fisheries Department, were warned. The enterprise suffered a loss of K311.3 million between 1985-86 and 1989-90. Among other irregularities, two fishing vessels bought from abroad were overage and useless when bought; US$600,000 was spent on useless repairs abroad to three other vessels; a poor-quality fish mincing plant was bought; fake rates were set for a shellfish plant, after gifts were given Enterprise officials; foreign debts were not collected, etc [details]. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 29: Editorial: Stamping out corruption: "Malpractices and irregularities of the corrupted service personnel of the Enterprise have been like a Trojan Horse to the Enterprise and the State, and action taken against them has been much lenient due to the true cetana of the [SLORC] Government." (WPD 12/29) 29th Gems Emporium Dec. 27: The 29th Gem Emporium will be held in February 1992. Among gems to be sold are a 952.3 carat rough sapphire from Yadana Gadaymadar camp, Mogok. 28 lots of gems from Joint Ventures in Mogok will be sold, totalling 6,683.9 carats. Other stones described. [photos] (WPD 12/28) Forest Conservation Measures Dec. 30: Speaking to the Forest Department, Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries and for Agriculture & Forests Lt-Gen. Chit Swe: -- "Said that with the drastic increase of population from the past 20 years there was a reduction of forest cover and it was decided that forest plantations should be established.... The annual plan target of reafforestation is 80,000 acres...." -- "He stressed the importance of strictly adhering to the forest policy as regards extraction of forest resources and of seeing to it that the annual felling of trees is within sustainable yield...." -- "He called for making efforts to put new varieties of fine quality timber on foreign markets.... He called on the responsible personnel to take measures so that not only round logs but also sawn timber and finished products can be exported." -- "He spoke on a number of measures to be taken for systematic reservation of forests and on making known Myanmar Naing-Ngan's efforts in this regard to the world through international conferences, exhibitions and news...." -- "In dealing with the bird's nest extraction, the Minister said that the State has granted permission for bird's nest extraction from over the last ten years and it is now the time to ban it on a temporary measure to ensure their preservation. He spoke on the need to co-ordinate with local authorities so that there will be no illegal extraction." (WPD 12/31) Rainfall in Yangon Rainfall since January 1, 1991, in inches, at Yangon's three weather stations of Yangon Airport (YA), Kaba-Aye (KA), and Central Yangon (CY) was: As of YA KA CY December 1 91.06 82.84 95.47 December 15 91.06 82.84 95.47 December 30 91.81 83.78 96.65 [It rained Dec. 27!] HEALTH AIDS Dec. 1: Sharing the Challenge: World AIDS Day 1991, by Dr. U Thaung, Director (Disease Control), Department of Health. ["AIDS is becoming a Public Health Problem in Myanmar." Studies show that in Myanmar the HIV infection rate in intravenous drug users was 54% in 1989, 66% in 1990, and 78% in 1991 through June. In prostitutes the HIV rate was nil in 1985-89, 8% in 1990, and 11% in 1991 through June. The rate in patients suffering from sexually transmitted disease (STD) was 0.5% in 1985-89, 2% in 1990, and 11% in 1991 through June. The Male:Female ratio has dropped from 19:1 in 1989, to 2:1 in 1990 and 2.7:1 in 1991. Most HIV infection is reported in the 20-39 age group. Increases in HIV infection are to be expected, with a rise in heterosexual transmission in the near future. The National AIDS Committee was formed in Aug. 1989, and has five Technical Subcommittees: (1) Surveillance and Research; (2) Medical and Social; (3) Information and Education; (4) Drug Abuse and AIDS Management; (5) Blood Transfusion.] Dec. 6: Speaking to a meeting on communicable diseases, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said "that original source of the AIDS is not from our country. It spreads through the border areas from neighbouring countries and from foreign tourists." First detected in Myamar in 1988, the following number of persons were tested, (cases found) (percent): 1989 18,274 (266) (1.4%) 1990 50,965 (986) (2.0%) 1991 103,151 (2,743) (2.7%) Most sufferers were aged between 15 and 44. State/Divisional percentages [of those tested??] were: Yangon 1.4% Tanintharyi 5.4% Bago 13.1% Sagaing 76.9% (jail inmates) Magway 1.4% Mandalay 6.8% Mon 22.8% Kayin 0.5% Kachin 64.2% (drug addicts) Shan 10.0% The Secretary-1 "elaborated in detail measures to be taken as a national duty against AIDS. He also pointed out that the frightful situation of Myanmar women in border areas of Myanmar Naing-Ngan was discussed at a seminar on AIDS held recently in Thailand.... Preventive measures, he said, must be carried out effectively so that this horrible disease would not get a strangle-hold in Myanmar Naing-Ngan...." "He pointed out that...AIDS mostly spreads among the intravenous drug users and their families as well as prostitutes.... The AIDS victims include youths of 15 to 17 years and that more efforts are required in educative programmes.... In some border areas of Shan State, some girls wrongly assume that serving parents by prostitution is honourable...." A Thai delegate at the meeting said that in Thailand over 200,000 people tested HIV positive, and over 600 were being treated in hospitals. He said "that...the number of people from Myanmar who go and work in Thailand is also increasing and they include prostitutes." A survey of brothels in Maesai in 1990-91 found young Myanmar women, some under 15. Of 442 persons recorded with HIV by Maesai Hospital, 283 "are national races from Myanmar" and there are similar cases in many Thai townships. Over 50,000 people from Myanmar are working in the Ranong [area] of Thailand, and many are HIV positive. "He pointed out that...more and more people are travelling along the Thai-Myanmar border and that since the number of people afflicted with the disease is increasing in Thailand and so Myanmar Naing-Ngan is to be concerned about it." (WPD 12/7) National Health Committee Dec. 16: Addressing the 9th meeting of the National Health Committee, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt called for more preventive and educational measures against AIDS. "He recounted that the AIDS infection spread to the world from the United States of America and spread to Myanmar Naing-Ngan from a neighbouring country." Noting AIDS education efforts in Thailand, he said "It was learnt that various methods were applied to replace Thai girls with Myanmar girls in prostitution work. He pointed out that this situation...could led to the danger of wiping out the race." He said "there were still shortcoming is [education] efforts and that no educative posters have yet been erected.... Educating the people by means of radio and television were found to be conventional pattern and not very effective.... It was vital to educate the people on the serious danger posed by the AIDS and how it usually spreads." He also said that "more people were now infected with malaria and was found to be epidemic in the suburbs of Yangon.... The number of people who have malaria was on the rise in Dalla, Twantay and Kawhmu Townships and that more effective malaria control work should be carried out." 300-bed hospitals were being constructed in Insein and Thingangyunn Townships and many 100-bed hospitals in other Townships. The Yangon General Hospital has been systematically renovated and be usable for another 20-25 years. A 600-bed hospital project will be implemented with ADB loans. (WPD 12/17) SPORTS Foreign Teams & Delegations Dec. 11: Chinese gymnastic coach Miss Liang Ping left "at the conclusion of her duties in Myanmar." (WPD 12/12) Dec. 24: Chairman Mr. Basoeki and Secretary Mr. Budiman Seriawan of the Indonesian Olympic Committee called on Minister for Health and for Education and Chief Commanding Officer of the Universities Training Corps Col. Pe Thein, and on Minister for Construction and for Co-operatives Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (WPD 12/ 25) Dec. 26: The Pamir Soccer Team from Tadzikistan, led by Nazarof Charif, arrived Dec. 24 to play goodwill matches. (WPD 12/27) // Dec. 30: The team beat Mandalay 4-2 on Dec. 29. (WPD 12/31) XVI South East Asian Games Nov. 30: Aye Aye Nwe won the gold medal in women's discus with a throw of 47.44 metres. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 1: Ma Kyin Lwan won gold in the 10-kilometre walk with 51:45.1. Khin San Myint won silver in the 60-kilo-, Win Win Maw bronze in the 67.5-kilo-, and Ni Ni Han bronze in the 56-kilo women's weightlifting. Hein Shwe won bronze in men's discus. (WPD 12/2) Dec. 3: Ma Kyin Lwan won gold in the 5-kilometer walk with a Games record of 24:03.79; Cho Cho won the bronze. Khin Khin Htwe won silver in women's 3,000 meter race. Kyaw Moe won bronze (tie) in men's- and Su Su Hlaing bronze (tie) in women's featherweight taekwando. A second contingent of 58 Myanmar participants returned home. (WPD 12/4) Dec. 4: Win Kyaw won bronze (tie) in pinweight taekwando. A third contingent of 61 Myanmar participants returned home. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: Victoria won silver and Kay Thi Cho won bronze in women's marathon. Kyi Tha won bronze in welterweight boxing. A fourth contingent of 72 Myanmar participants returned home. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 6: Final Myanmar standings in the Games were: Gold 12; Silver 16; Bronze 28; for a total of 56 medals. This placed it 6th of 9 participants. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 7: The last contingent of 44 Myanmar participants returned home, and were welcomed by State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 20: SEA Games-The aftermath, by Ivan King. [SEA Games reviewed; too bad about soccer team--"the Coaches we have today are still in nappies...." Bravo to track and field.] Cultural Regatta Festival Dec. 15: A painting and sculpture exhibition for the third Myanmar Traditional Boat Festival for the [SLORC] Chairman's Bowl opened at the Myanmar Medical Association Auditorium. (WPD 12/16) Dec. 15: State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung inspected the exhibition, and Festival preparations. (WPD 12/17) [Many articles on preparations, trial heats, art exhibits, planned entertainment and coverage, etc.] Dec. 26: State LORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Saw Maung viewed the opening of the third Myanma Cultural Regatta Festsival and "also took a stroll along the road among the people." Attending were officials, foreign diplomats, Vice President Mr. Madayabasuky and Secretary Mr. Budiman Setiawan from the Rowing Federation of Indonesia, General Secretary Mr. Hajind Khoeshed Alam from the Rowing Federation of Bangladesh, and President Adm. Dilok Bhattarakosol (Rtd.) and Secretary Wing Commander Sithidej Boonnyarnyao from the Amateur Boat Race Association of Thailand. 350,000 spectators attended the opening day. Results detailed. In a speech at the opening, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt outlined the history of regatas under Myanmar Kings, and stated SLORC's policy in reviving them as: 1. To revive a traditional Myanma aquatic sport that fell into an almost complete oblivion under the British colonial rule; 2. To revive it as a national responsibility for purpose of keeping patriotism and love of the Union perpetually vigourous; 3. To demonstrate the unity of Myanmar peoples; 4. To promote physical strength, cultivate a resolute will and develop a spirit of fortitude, perseverence and diligence; 5. To instil a practice of selfless collective and community action aimed at achieving national welfare. He noted that "You will soon see traditional racing canoes of Myanmar monarchs that have been revitalized for participation in the present festival [nine listed]." He closed by exhorting the oarsmen to "Hold high the spirit of `let only the hull be left, we shall not lower our flag.'" and "Display the courage of the Myanmar people," and proclaiming the following slogans: -- Myanma sports has a world to conquer; -- Down with neocolonialism; -- Nurture fiery nationalism; -- Victory to the nation and religion." [photos] (WPD 12/27; more photos 12/28) Dec. 27: Results. (WPD 12/28) Dec. 28: Results. (WPD 12/29) Dec. 29: State LORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Saw Maung attended the prize presentation ceremonies closing the Regatta. Results and other related stories. [photos] (WPD 12/30) Mayor's Marathon Dec. 15: The Yangon Mayor's Marathon was run, after extensive advance publicity, with 24,864 participants aged from 5-86 years old, of whom 22,513 completed the race. The distances were 36 miles for the City Circular Road relay, 24 miles for Marathon, 8 miles for micro-marathon and wheel-chair marathon, and 13 miles for the mini-marathon, with all events ending at the Aung San Stadium. \\ Winners named. 513 prizes were given, worth K4 million, including Hitachi colour TV (1st), Toshiba TV deck (2nd), and Daewoo Refrigerator (small) (3rd), etc. [photos] (WPD 12/16) Hole-in-One Dec. 1: Lt-Col. Tun Hlaing (Kidney Dept., DSGH) scored an ace at the 179-yard 7th hole of the Defence Services Golf Course at Mingaladon, with a No. 5 iron and a Ball No. 2. (WPD 12/2) CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles Dec. 1,8,15,22,29: Foundations of Myanmar Culture: Myanmar literature and the ten major jatakas, by Hnaphet Hla. [Cont. (71-75)] Dec. 1: 20th Century Myanmar Poets & Poems, by Htila Sitthu. [Cont. (110) Poet Naung: Thirteen selected poems.] Dec. 1,8,15,22,29: Poems (in Myanmar and English). [(1-2) "To Ayeyarwady" by Min Yu Way. (3) "Salvaging Driftwood" by Tekkatho Maung Thu Hlaing. (3) "Only if patriotic birth pride is strong" by Thiha Aung. (5) "Drinking the same water in the same village" by Min Yu Wai. (5) "Sweat drops bloom on the poetry tree" by Thiha Aung.] Dec. 1,8,15,22,29: Short Stories. (1-5) Cont. (10-14) "General Maha Bandula" by U Thein Maung. (1-5) Cont. (6-10) "What shall I tell Ah Nyo" by Maung Thin. (1-2) "Men with dancers's names" by Pe Than. (3) "A skittish lady" by Pe Than. (5) "Premature adults" by Pe Than.] Dec. 1,8,15: Myanmar Traditional Regatta, by Dr. Khin Maung Nyunt. [Cont. Illustrated history of royal barges.] Dec. 8,15,22,29: Myanma classical poetry, by Htila Sitthu. [(1-4) Historical survey, with samples in Burmese.] Dec. 12-13,17-20: Royal regatta festivals, by Daw Khin Nyun (Innlay). [Compilation of Royal edicts and ancient chronicles from 1605-1883 AD, with drawings.] Dec. 21-23: An Analysis of Royal Regatta, by Daw Khin Nyun (Innlay). [Study of ancient regattas from 1646-1883, with drawings.] Patriotic Culture Dec. 1: Speaking at a prize-giving ceremony by the SLORC Leading Committee for Writing National Mottos, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt defined "national spirit" as the "spirit of love for one's own country, one's own national races, one's own culture, religion and literature." He said "the word `Myanmar' embodies all 135 national races including Kachins, Kayahs, Kayins, Chins, Bamars, Mons, Rakhines and Shans. Myanmar nationals...have their own cutlure, literature, religion, language, traditions and customs.... If culture disappears, races will disappear. If the spirit of patriotism and nationalism is lost, the people will fall into servitude and the country will disappear...." "The Secretary-1 also declared that there are some persons who admire what is alien. For this reason, the effort for suppressing the national patriotic spirit by colonialists became effective to some extent.... Although they are real Myanmars, they are willing to inspire alien language, to look down on Myanmar culture as well as to take pride in marrying foreigners. Those who were the adopted children of the imperialists looked down on the Myanmar language and literature and they thought that they would be more sociable only if they spoke English.... They looked down on their own national races and they only admired those persons with long noses...." "The Secretary-1 said that modern education and English language could not be observed separately. One who could read, write and speak in English was erroneously regarded as a leader; in other words, people would be more likely to elect one as a leader of the nation if one was fluent in English...." "He went ont to say, there were people who thought highly of Western culture longing for the British administrative system, justice, philosophy, literature and traditions.... He blamed infiltration of Western culture for diminishing patriotism in the country...." "At the time of the Revolutionary Government in 1962, he said, emphasis was placed on reviving patriotism and preserving and promoting national culture.... However, he said due to the instigations of destructive elements within and without the country taking advantage of the 1988 incident, pro-alien tendencies again arose...." "He then stressed the need for writers and literary workers to produce works that would inspire patriotism. A fine literary work, he said, is able to keep thousands of reading public on the right track. So...they were to write correctly. The creations...should be free from materials that tarnish the pride and dignity of the country.... The people who created irresponsible materials...would be judged as villains in history.... The pen in the hands of a writer with incorrect thought is more dangerous than the knife in the hands of the murderer...." (WPD 12/2) Dec. 4: Editorial: Heritage bestowed. [State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt "commented that the pen was indeed mightier than the sword.... The might of the pen should not be misused. For, a poisonous pen in the hands of writers whose thoughts and ideals have been warped can be more dangerous than a knife in the hands of a homicidal maniac. ["And whose mind can be more warped and more dangerous than that of an individual whose inclinations and attitudes have turned against the interests of his or her own country and his or her own peoples? How more perverted can anyone become than to renounce the heritage of his or her nation and peoples? How more dangerous can anyone become than to turn into an instrument for the disintegration of the Union, a treacherous means for the disintegration of national solidarity or an evil virus threatening the perpetuation of national sovereign integrity? Intentionally or otherwise...." ["Our forefathers...fought and died...for the innate values of the heritage which identified their nation as a distinct sovereign entity. And their peoples as a distinct sovereign peoples.... This...heritage ...has been bred into our blood. We can no more renounce this than we can renounce our parentage, our ancestry and our history; much less embrace alien values which clash with the heritage bestowed upon us. Let all Myanmar men and women of letters remember this."] Border Area Education Dec. 7: Responding to SLORC Vice-Chairman Gen. Than Shwe at a meeting of trainees of the University for the Development of National Races: Maung Chan Tha of Rakhine State said that "They are nationals living in the border areas and most of them are illiterate; very few who wish to learn have to study in monasteries .... Their education had improved in the time of the former government and the number of people who wished to learn had increased.... The schools are in distant places and that is why those who want to pursue their education have to spend a lot and that only a few are able to pursue their education because of those difficulties...." Ma Hta Thay, a Thangon Naga national from the Naga Hills, Sagaing Division, "said that Naga Hills were backward for different periods, though there were schools, there were no teachers and even if there were teachers they had no knowledge of local dialect, so they found it difficult to teach. Naga nationals ...did not appreciate the value of education. They had little interest in sending their children to school .... They only sent their four-or-five-year old children to schools .... If the children could be engaged in farming work, they withdrew the children from schools.... The position of the teachers was therefore reduced to nursing the children. The result...was that there are very few persons who have attained even lower primary education in the area...." Both expressed hope that assigning graduates of basic education primary and middle classes as teachers would help the situation. (WPD 12/8) Literary Trust Fund Recipients Dec. 7: Four "veteran and aged writers" were presented with K10,000 each from the Literary Trust Fund of the Literary and Journalists Organization: U Tin Myint (Saya Thinkha), U San (Saya Tint San), U Kyin Swe (Saya Thawda Swe), and U Sein Lay (Saya Mya Wazi). Meanwhile, another K25,000 was donated to the Fund [donors' names]. (WPD 12/8) University Convocations Dec. 7: Yangon University held its 54th (First Day) Convocation, at the YU Campus Convocation Hall. (WPD 12/8, correction 12/9) Dec. 8: Yangon University held its 54th (Second Day) Convocation. Rector U Tin Oo Hlaing conferred degrees on 847 graduates at the 54th Convocation. The 55th Convocation "is yet to be held." (WPD 12/9) Literary Prizes Dec. 7: Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint delivered the National Literary Awards and Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards for 1990. [Winners and criteria previously announced.] "He stressed the need for writers and publishers to bring out literary works beneficial to the people and the nation rather than literature for entertainment." (WPD 12/8) Music Asiayone Dec. 11: State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung visited a meeting of the Executive Committee of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan Music Asiayone. At the meeting, State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt called on them to set aside "previous misconceptions and prejudices such as the gap between old artistes and young ones," and urged them "to produce music with emphasis on national interest, traditional values of Myanmar and that of race, language and religion" and "to promote classical music, to produce music in harmony with national cultural identity and prevent decadent alien culture from entering Myanmar culture." (WPD 12/12) Dec. 17: The Music Asiayone held its first Executive Committee meeting, under Chairman Accordian U Ohn Kyaw. (WPD 12/18) Rakhine Pagoda Trustee Board Dec. 20: Western Commander Maj-Gen. Mya Thein on Dec. 18 took part in a meeting at the Sandawshin Zedi in Pauktaw Twp. [Rakhine] to discuss "formation of Rakhine State Board of Trustees for Religious Edifices." (WPD 12/21) 1990 Motion Picture Awards Dec. 27: At the presentation of the 1990 Motion Picture Awards, Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Information and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint spoke called on Myanmars to preserve traditional culture: "I would like to take this opportunity to seriously and emphatically urge one and all to preserve and uphold the traditional Myanmar customs and style of dress and the national identity so that they would not fade away.... We have our own culture and our own customs. We have our own Myanmar character traits and Myanmar traditions which are lovely.... If a person thinks highly of alien cultures, customs in spite of the existence of our own culture and customs, and discard our own, then that person will be regarded as one who is lacking in patriotism...." The awards were: -- U Kyi. Best Photographer Award for "Achit-son-thu-ye-yin-hmar" from Thu Maria Film; -- Zaw Lwin. Best Supporting Actor Award for "Ayai-sa-be" from Yamonna Film; -- Thu Maung. Best Actor Award for "Khun-hna-sin Alwan" from Pan Wai Wai Film; -- Maung Wunna. Best Director Award for the same film. -- Khin Than Nu. Best Actress Award for the same film. (WPD 12/28) MISCELLANEOUS Crime News Names and addresses of culprits generally included. Crime, date, and locality are included in our summaries, but generally not individual names unless for special reason. Nov. 30: Kyaukkyi [Bago] authorities on Nov. 4 seized 6.5 kilos of marijuana. (WPD 12/1) Dec. 4: The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Nov. 20 seized 36 bottles of phensedyl from a local bus. \\ The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Nov. 16 seized 1.1 kilos of heroin from a car rriving from Lashio. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 6: Htantabin [Bago] police on Nov. 2 seized 3.3 kilos of marijuana. (WPD 12/7) Dec. 7: The Monywa anti-drug squad on Nov. 29 seized 1,744 bottles of phensedyl from a car on the Mandalay-Monywa highway. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 11: The Myitkyina anti-drug squad and Hopin police on seized 38.6 kilos of raw opium and a local-made gun in a hut five miles west of Hopin. (WPD 12/12) Dec. 13: The Kale [Sagaing] anti-drug squad on Dec. 7 seized 552 bottles of phensedyl. (WPD 12/14) Dec. 13: Nine members of the Hackney Branch in Mandalay are being prosecuted for pocketing fines taken from trishaws. There are 3,019 licensed and over 7,000 unlicensed trishaws in Mandalay, and the fine for unlicensed operation is K300. But no trishaw license has been issued in Mandalay since 1976. Branch Head U Nyunt Hlaing was making an illegal income of K50,000 per month, Deputy Branch Heads U Tin Tun and U Hla Sein K10,000 each, and 5 group leaders K3,000 each, since Oct. 1989. Also prosecuted is Assistant Director (Admin.) U Hla Kyaw for ignoring the misappropriations. (WPD 12/15) Dec. 14: Three car-part thieves were arrested Oct 31 in Yangon. 20 cases of theft, including 17 unknown to the police, were uncovered. (WPD 12/15) Dec. 15: The Myitkyina anti-drug squad on Dec. 8 seized 3.3 kilos of opium. \\ Kyalaukchaik police [Yangon] on Oct. 15 seized illegal distilling equipment and 28 baskets of jaggery [raw sugar].(WPD 12/16) Dec. 17: Lanmadaw Twp. [Yangon] police on Nov. 1 arrested absconding drug suspect Than Tun (a) Minthagyi, wanted in Monywa and Mingala Taungnyunt [Yangon]. He had a fake ID and K66,000. Following interrogation, a truck used to carry phensedyl was seized on Nov. 2. (WPD 12/18) Dec. 18: Twantay Twp. police [Yangon] on Oct. 23 arrested six log thieves and confiscated their boat and six logs. (WPD 12/19) Dec. 19: The National Intelligence Bureau has arrested seven persons selling counterfeit US$100 notes, smuggled in from Thailand, and peddled in Bagan-Nyaung-U and Lashio townships. Counterfeit $100 Travellers Cheques were also sold. The counterfeit bills were imported at K7 to the dollar and sold at K15 to the dollar. (WPD 12/20) Dec. 27: Soldier and militia at Nansalut village, Hsenwi Twp. [Shan] on Dec. 16 seized 60 kilos of opium and arrested four people. (WPD 12/ 28) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are occasional obituaries in Burmese as well.] [Oct. 5: Edwin W. Martin, United States Ambassador to Burma from 1971-1973, died in Washington, aged 74. He is survived by his wife, Emma-Rose Martin of Washington, D, 4 sons and 7 grandchildren.--HCMacD.] Nov. 30: Daw Saw, relict of U Hla Pe (Mr. C.A. Rees), mother of U Hla Tun, Accountant and Honorary Swedish and Netherlands Consul, died in Yangon, aged 90. [Christian] (WPD 12/1) No date given: Hedy Hla Pe (a) Thein Thin Swe, wife of U Aung Min, Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise. [Acknowledgement to No. 2 Military Hospital, etc.] [Christian] (WPD 12/7) Dec. 7: P. Bose (a) Ko Sein Win died in Yangon, aged 42. [Condolence message] [Hindu] (WPD 12/9) Dec. 18: Naw Sein Dwe Mae (Kyaiklat), Retired Headmistress, wife of U Josep, died in Yangon, aged 74. [Christian] (WPD 12/19) no date: U Nyunt Yi, B.A., D.M.A., husband of Daw Tin Tin Hla, died in Yangon. [Condolence message]. (WPD 12/21) Dec. 26: Naw Chit (a) Naw Thein Kywe, widow of Rev. Wunna Kyaw Htin U Saw Be, died in Yangon, aged 90. [Baptist] (WPD 12/27)i Dec. 29: Daw Ah Ma, wife of U Nyun (retired Foreign Service), died in Yangon, aged 73. (WPD 12/31) Fires Dec. 4: A fire at 34/36/38 Bogalayzay St., Botahtaung Twp., Yangon, "gutted a building on the flat-top" with damage of K2,000. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 5: During October 1991 there were 74 fires in Myanmar, causing damage of K1.04 million. 86.5% were due to negligence. (WPD 12/6) Dec. 28: During November 1991 there were 109 fires in Myanmar, causing damage of K20.18 million. 102 were due to negligence. The fires killed 2 people and 1,037 animals, injured 8 people, destroyed 933 houses, and made 6,533 people homeless. (WPD 12/29) Earthquakes Dec. 4: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.8 Richter) was recorded at 10:01:00 Myanmar time on Dec. 4, with epicentre 250 miles NW of Mandalay in the Indian Border area. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 7: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.1 Richter) was recorded at 20:31:16 Myanmar time on Dec. 7, with epicentre 220 miles NW of Mandalay in the Indian Border area. (WPD 12/8) Dec. 16: An earthquake of slight intensity (4.0 Richter) was recorded at 10:25:42 Myanmar time on Dec. 16, with epicentre about 144 miles N of Mandalay. (WPD 12/17) Dec. 20: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.2 Richter) was recorded at 08:38:06 Myanmar time on Dec. 20, with epicentre about 120 miles NW of Mawlaik in the Indian Border area. (WPD 12/21) Ayeyarwady Floods During the month, there were continued articles about donations of money and food sent for flood relief in Ayeyarwady Division. Total donations received at the Relief and Resettlement Department as of Dec. 10 was K10,974,370. Dec. 25: More than 750,000 acres have been placed under winter crops in Ayeyarwady Division, 200,000 acres more than the average for previous years. (WPD 12/26) Miscellany Dec. 4: A statue of Col. Ba Htoo was unveiled in Launglon [Tanintharyi] Dec. 1 by his widow, Daw Ohn Tin. (WPD 12/5) Dec. 17: Mr. Jin Keun Lee, 66, a Korean, is in Yangon looking for his older brother Dong Keun Lee (aka Yosihara Seishu), who deserted from the Japanese Army in Myanmar in 1945 to marry a Myanmar girl. A US$1,000 reward is offered. (WPD 12/18) Narcotics Seizures Dec. 18: During November, the Tatmadaw seized 16.0 kilos of opium, 2.0 kilos of heroin, and 6.5 kilos of marijuana. The Police in November seized 38.9 kilos of opium (40 cases), 7.2 kilos of herion (131 cases), 14.5 kilos of marijuana (33 cases), 173.2 litres of phensedyl (18 cases), 0.0005 kilo of opium powder (1 case), 55 tablets of methaqualone (1 case), and handled 182 cases of failure to register and one other case. Action was taken against 547 persons in 407 cases. (WPD 12/ 19) Engagements Dec. 21: Swe Swe Thein, B.E. (Electronics), UNICEF, Yangon, daughter of U Wilson Thein and the late Daw Maisie, is engaged to Dr. Aung Tun Thet, PH.D., Director-General, Department of Planning and Statistics, Ministry of Health, son of the late Col. Pe Thet and Daw Tin Nyunt. (WPD 12/24) Dec. 29: Ma Tin May Aung, B.Sc. (Chem), Dip. in Japanese and French, daughter of Dr. San Mra Aung (Retd.) and Daw Saw Tin, is engaged to Maung Toe Ba Shan, B.Sc. (Maths), Senior Senior Programme Assistant, Japan International Cooperation Agency, son of U Ba Shan and Daw Khin Pyone Tun. (WPD 12/30) Dec. 29: Khin Ma Ma Myo, B.Econ (Eco), daughter of U Hla Hmi and Daw Khin Aye Than, is engaged to Mo Myint, B.E. (Electronics), son of U Maung Maung Myint and Daw Tin Tin Myint. (WPD 12/29) ----- SUBSCRIPTIONS & RENEWALS ATT: Burma Press Summary The Center for East Asian & Pacific Studies University of Illinois 910 South Fifth Street, RM 230 Champaign, IL 61820 Annual Subscriptions: US$50.00 Add Postal surcharge for Canada - US$ 2.00 Foreign (surface) - US$ 2.00 Europe (air) - US$ 20.00 Asia (air) - US $ 25.00 [additional charge for US$ check on foreign bank - $5.00] NOTE: Checks should be payable to: University of Illinois, with "Burma Press Summary" annotated on check. EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE Editorial correspondence, requests for full copies of articles, and requests for back issues before January 1991 should be sent to: Hugh C. MacDougall 32 Elm Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 ------- Burma Press Summary No. 58, Dec. 1991