92-03 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from THE WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. VI, No. 3, March 1992 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans & Official Books 2 Cartoons 2 Political Articles 3 Pagoda Funds are Public Funds 6 Special Press Conference 7 Visit to Rakhine State 8 ELECTIONS Party Registration Changes 8 NLD Hluttaw Resigns 9 Nineteen More Parties Abolished 9 Expence Scrutiny Completed 10 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 10 New Myanmar Ambassadors 12 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 12 Thai-Myanmar Boundary Pact 12 Some Diplomats Visit Rakhine 12 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops 13 Foreign Donations 13 Water Projects 13 UN Child Convention 13 Books for US Buddhists 14 Agricultural Cooperation 14 FOREIGN VISITORS Business Visitors 14 International Agency Visitors 14 Orbis Flying Hospital 14 Foreign Buddhists 14 Tourists 15 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 15 Delegations to Meetings & Events 15 Delegations Return 16 MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 16 Appointments Confirmed 16 Appointments 16 GOVERNMENT Saw Maung--Homage & Pilgrimages 16 Peasants Day Message 17 Civil Jurisdiction Extended 18 New Ministers and Ministries 18 New Service Organization Heads 19 Religious and Military Awards 19 Tariff Legislation & Rules 19 Saw Maung on Koran Distribution 20 Supplementary Appropriation Law 20 Armed Forces Day & Speech 21 1992 State Budget Law 25 MILITARY Tatmadaw Military Operations 27 Insurgent Attacks 29 Insurgents Surrender 29 Tatmadaw Reorganization 30 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 30 Construction & Other Projects 30 Commercial Registrations 30 Energy, Fuel, and Transport 31 Gems and 29th Gems Emporium 31 New 10-pya Coin 31 Coop Exports 31 Banking System 31 Rainfall in Yangon 32 HEALTH AIDS 32 Blood Donations Needed 32 Contraception 32 SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations 32 Foreign Teams and Delegations 32 National Sports Festival 32 CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles 33 Religious Matters 33 Higher Education 35 News Course Given 35 Cartoon Prizes 35 University Convocations 35 Encyclopedia Myanmarnica 36 Relics 36 MISCELLANEOUS Crime News 36 Narcotics Crimes & Statistics 36 Anti-Narcotics Activities 37 Obituaries 37 Fires 38 Birthday 38 Ship/Shore Telephone 38 Yangon Pepsi King and Queen 38 Earthquake Reports 38 POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans & Official Books Regular Slogans: See January 1992 issue. Variable Slogans: Since August 1991, The Working People's Daily has run a changing religious slogan at the top of each front page: Mar. 1-11: Tapo ca, ascetic practices; this is the way to auspiciousness. Mar. 12-31: Brahmacariyanca, chastity; this is the way to auspiciousness. ----- Officially published books and periodicals are advertised or publicised regularly. These were featured this month: Tatmadaw performing the noble duty of State sacrificing lives, pictorial booklet distributed on Armed Forces Day (Mar. 27). Cartoons There continued to be several political cartoons in each issue. E.g.: Mar. 1: "Get Rid of the Colonial Heritage." Myanmar (looking at treestump labeled "Bribery"): "We the entire people must collectively uproot this great stump." Mar. 2: Elder: "One who destroys Our Three Main National Causes is a traitor to the country and the people. You young men should know this." Youth (thinking): "To establish a new democratic state." Mar. 9: 1st Myanmar (watching TV): "Oh, a porn star is now a Member of Parliament in Italy. Oh!" 2nd Myanmar: "Of course. It's a lesson regarding democracy. That's why it is said that it's important for us not to let the good and the bad or the decent and the indecent or the honourable and the dishonourable mixed up here." Mar. 14: 1st Myanmar: "Who is the Ambassador who presented his credentials here after the Tatmadaw has taken over the State responsibilities?" 2nd Myanmar: "Oh, you are very forgetful. He is Mr Sallehudin bin Abdullah from Malaysia. Don't you remember?" Mar. 16: Myanmar, looking at picture of a bruised and battered face labeled "Destructive Elements": "Oh, Good! It is the work of our Tatmadaw and the People." Mar. 20: "Emergence of the State Constitution is the duty of all citizens of Myanmar Naing-Ngan." 1st Myanmar: "Life is blood! Blood is life!" 2nd Myanmar: "As for us, a firm Constitution is life itself." Mar. 20: 1st Myanmar: "Friend, some big foreign nations are attempting to destroy and disintegrate our Nation and the people as there are some persons in our country who think highly and rely on foreign countries." 2nd Myanmar: "Such persons who want to fall under foreign influence are a minority. The majority of our national people do love and cherish our people and are ready to safeguard our nation." Mar. 21: 1st Myanmar reads from SLORC Order 5/92 of Feb. 13 abolishing certain political parties. 2nd Myanmar: "Of course, such Parties will become like that so long as they do everything with the sole aim of grabbing power for themselves without taking into the interest of the Nation into consideration." Mar. 25: 1st Myanmar: "The country will be strong only if the Tatmadaw is strong." 2nd Myanmar: "That's right! That's why all of us must assist in all kinds of ways to make the Tatmadaw have greater strength--it is the in-born responsibility of us all Myanmar Naing-Ngan Thars!" 1st Myanmar: "How right you are my friend!" Mar. 27: VOA/AIR/BBC: "Must make a framework of lies! `Rohingyas have been in Myanmar for a thousand years.'" 1st Myanmar: "How can we beat those who always tells lies." 2nd Myanmar: "Ha! That's easy, we can beat them by simply telling the truth!" Mar. 30: 1st Myanmar: "When I read the 47th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Address thoroughly I got a vivid picture of the atrocities of colonialists and fascists as well as the love of resistance leaders and the people of those days for race, language and religion." 2nd Myanmar: "Yes, the people have time and again been reminded to beware of the dangers of neo-colonialists and not to let their love for race, language and religion to be weakened. It was an address of great significance. The entire people must study it and adhere to what it conveys." 1st Myanmar: "Right, right!" 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 touch on similar themes. We note them briefly, with excerpts of typical or particularly significant portions: Mar. 1-2: A Concise History of Myanmar and the Tatmadaw's Role (1948-1988), by A Tatmadaw Researcher. [Cont. (194-195) War against insurgency.] Mar. 2-3,7: Let us follow our own cultural traditions, by Aung Min. [(1) Atrocities of 1988 were against the poor who had no "access to any embassy," and "were not acquaintances of any advocates, lawyers or members of the Bar Council." Horrible atrocities reviewed. "Have our cultural traditions, our spirits of love, compassion and truth, have all these disappeared from under the blue skies?" [(2) "Our elder uncle who keeps claiming that he is the legitimate prime minister that he alone will be the eternal prime minister despite sheer impossibility and impracticality of his claim has perhaps therefore to be living in association with Section 10 (b). It is none other's but one's own action. I pray that he be able to consider this aspect.... We may still have in Yangon some remnants of 1988 fiends and demons.... Those who sin against the Sayadaws need not wait till their next life for retribution.... The HIV virus destroys human immunity system. Lack of culture, religion and moral conduct virus is equally dreadful. Persons with such a virus will suffer not only in this life but in all subsequent lives throughout the eternal cycle of rebirths." [(2) {sic} "There is a threat to our national culture posed by some whose blood is not pure and others whose blood may be pure but who still esteem only foreigners.... They prefer twisting, hopping and contorting Break Dance, Rock, Shake and Twist to gentle and graceful Myanma choreography.... At novitiation and charitable ceremonies, musicians have now left out oboeists and have included Casio synthesizers .... Puppets have now been stowed away in wooden chests.... Let all of us...try and preserve our precious cultural heritage, control invasion of foreign culture to the best of our ability, and teach our children to come to enjoy Myanmar cultural music, dance, painting, carving and writings."] Mar. 3-5,10-11,13-21,25-31: Post independence press in retrospect (1948-1958), by Shwe Kalaung. [Cont. (100-120) Political divisiveness in the Myanmar press.] Mar. 6-10: Pettifoggers and their chicanery, by Sithu Aung. [(1) BBC on Mar. 2 quoted correspondent Lindsay Hailstrong at Cox's Bazaar that "close to one hundred thousand Rohingas are now living in refugee camps and tents in Bangladesh," that a Buddhist monk "informed Rakhine Buddhists {in Buthitaung} that those who co-operate with the Tatmadaw in evicting Rohinga Muslims would be rewarded with land and property." He reported stories of men conscripted by the army as porters, the rape of women, and that "young Muslims who tried to escape from forced labour camps have been shot dead by Myanmar troops." The Bangkok Post on Mar. 3 said that "Myanmar troops had last week killed about a hundred Muslims and injured by gun shots and bayonetting five hundred other Muslims," and that "about 3000 Muslim homes in the seventeen townships of Rakhine have been burnt down." These are all fabrications by "so-called refugees" who "are persisting in making these false accusations to cover up their guilty conscience over really why they had fled." [(2) "A majority of those who fled are landless and homeless seasonal labourers" who cross into Myanmar every year and then return home after the harvest. [(3) Most of those who fled have no Myanmar registration certificates. In the area from which people fled, 70% know no Myanmar or Rakhine, and only 10% speak either well. The object of the Rohingas is to use international pressure to get nationality status and the right to vote. Then they will demand a separate state. "Their objective is to create a state called Arakandesh and then secede from the Union. These have been discovered in their propaganda papers." [(4) "Rohinga insurgents had aspired to take over Buthidaung and Maungdaw Areas {in 1942 and 1947} .... Their vocation was to smuggle rice into the next country, to sell arms to political dissidents in the next country, to trade in narcotics, to trade young girls via the next country with foreign countries.... That is why they are creating communal hatred religious distinctions and other acts to sow hatred against the Tatmadaw. Every reasoning person can easily see through their falsehoods together with their illogical exaggerations {details of alleged atrocities given}...." [(5) "Myanmar is not a public rest house where any body may come in and live without let or hindrance.... Unlike some other countries Myanmar does not oppress illegal immigrants, does not imprison them in barbed-wire compounds, does not forcibly repatriate them, does not starve them by doling out only morsels of food.... One of the richest countries in the world...is itself forcibly repatriating over ten thousand Haitians.... Myanmar has never forcibly repatriated any illegal immigrant. Those who have now fled Myanmar because they are being lured away by promises of cash, clothing and food assistance, because they are being frightened by false reports of racial and religious persecution or because they themselves dare not face the Law for their lack of any identification papers.... The January 1992 entry and exit registers...show that 428 crossed the border into the country and 2345 crossed the border out of the country. There is a vast discrepancy between these figures and the figures running into tens of thousands being quoted by foreign news agencies.... In the present matter we have already pledged to take back all those who can prove that they are Myanmar nationals.... But Myanmar is a sovereign independent nation.... It will never tolerate any attempt at foreign interference with the pretext of the border problem...."] Mar. 8-9,11-13: A letter to all his pupils from a university teacher who attended special refresher course No 1 at Phaunggyi Central Institute of Public Services, by U Taing Ok (Yin Maung). [(1) Description of course. Daily routine was military style, including uniforms, military drill and marching, calesthenics, and twice daily recital of the six pledges: "1. We will remain faithful and loyal to the State of Myanmar. 2. We will strive to prevent the Union from breaking down. 3. We will strive to prevent the solidarity of Union nationals from breaking apart. 4. We will strive to strengthen the sovereign independence of our mother land. 5. We will as public servants keep ourselves clear of all party politics. 6. We will strive to perform all duties entrusted to us by the state even at the risk of our lives." [(2) Subjects taught included "history of the public service, service regulations, leadership, social relations, history of education, world economy.... Buddha's teachings and Myanma culture, teacher-pupil relationship, laws, orders and instructions issued by the {SLORC}, national security and defence, Myanmar's market economic policy and foreign economic relations policy, Myanmar political history in relation to the Tatmadaw, how the {SLORC} emerged, the rule of public servants in multi-party general elections, our three main tasks and so on." [(3) "The Refresher course was the first course and there were two thousand trainees and that surely created some slight difficulties to the Institute. At the beginning there were some water problems and some lavatory problems. Thanks to the staff these problems were soon removed.... We were sold personal goods and medicines and also such high-priced articles as electric irons and radio-cassettes by drawing of lots.... At the end of the course we were given one of the two suits of uniform clothes we were issued with, as a present of the Institute .... At the end of the second week we were given home leave and we went home joyously. We were given free messing all through the course. It was school messing and the fare was not very lavish. We therefore took the opportunity of this home leave to replenish our own dry rations ...." [(4) On graduation day, "Secretary 1 {State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt} who guided the Special Course from the beginning to the end obviously was very happy on that day with the successful completion of the Course. He, who seldom smiled when making speeches in the past, was that day wreathed in smiles as he gave his closing speech." [(5) "Our national pride is like {a coal that flares up when fanned}. I had such a flare up of national pride when I went to Japan to study. In Japan I was reluctant to be subordinated to them despite their riches and developments. I did not like them talking scathingly about our country. This refresher course had fanned up the national pride in us that had remained latent. When Saya U Thein Sein talked about our Three Main Tasks, we were so stirred up that we gave him an ovation that almost blew apart the lecture hall." Description of rural Phaunggyi, on the edge of the Bago Yoma.] Mar. 12,14,16,22,24: Imperialist forces interferences in Myanmar internal affairs, by Yenanmye Maung Sein Paing. [(1-5) British and French interference in 1752-1760.] Mar. 15: Only responsible journalism serves the broader public interest, by Po Toke. ["There was the Hintha project in 1978 in Rakhine State to determine the demographic conditions...there. Just as it was with any such undertaking anywhere else those without proper documents naturally fled, and, along with them, those who panicked.... Recently, with the collection of demographic data in the wind, there was perhaps similar panic.... The fact-finding mission...came back with ample evidence provided by the local population that there was no ill-treatment of the people there by the security men or any of their fellow residents that would warrant running away. However, if one did not have proper papers and felt unsafe, that's a different story.... There is no ill-treatment of people in Rakhine, and the state certainly does not teem with rapists, nor looters. What VOA, AIR and BBC have been doing is nothing more than create a flight of fancy...to create greater misunderstanding through irresponsible journalism. Truth shall triumph."] Mar. 15: If I speak out, it may amount to my taking too much for granted: I'm afraid of committing a sin, by Aung Min. [No more than 4,000 or 5,000 people from the Bua-thidaung and Maungdaw areas of Rakhine State have "for various reasons...gone over to the other country .... One thing that should be noted ...is that every person in Myanmar ...whether he or she be residing in a town or a village, has his or her name in the census list as well as in the household list. Every house in the towns and villages in the border areas has such a list. It can therefore be ascertained whether one person from a household is missing or not." But if I reveal this truth, will not the "tricky international beggers" who depend on lies to get food from foreigners go hungry, and would that not be a sin?!] Mar. 17: Never to be separated, by Thukhi Aung. [Some Myanmars have "the wrong concept and idea that it will be good for them if they set up separate states," as a result of "the instigations and persuasion by some big nations." This would not have happened "if they had continued to be living in weal and woe and in unity and friendship as before according to their own cultural backgrounds, customs, traditions and their way of life."] Mar. 18-19: Hailing the 47th Anniversary of the Resistance Day (The Armed Forces Day) [hereafter H47AAFD]: An Auspicious Day of Great Significance, by Tin Lay. [Imperialist conquest of Myanmar by the British reviewed, from 1752 to 1948. "The most evil and ruthless act of the British imperialists was the assassination of our National Leader Bogyoke Aung San and other leaders."] Mar. 21: What the so-called Bangladesh refugee problem is all about, by Mya Win. [Comparing the June 1991 and 1983 censuses shows that the number of Bengalis in Buthitaung declined from 181,781 to 153,583 and in Maungdaw from 325,872 to 261,256, or in total from 507,653 to 415,839. But investigations show that only 13,555 people of the 415,839 Bengalis on the 1991 registers are missing. So where did the refugees in Bangladesh come from? They are "only Bangladeshis sho earlier had sneaked into areas where the grass was greener but had now fled back when they were unable to eke out a living in this area."] Mar. 22-23: H47AAFD: Significant role of BIA and BDA in the struggle against colonialists, by Ko Soe. [(1) BIA alliance with Japan, 1941-42. (2) BDA revolt against Japanese in 1945.] Mar. 22: Editorial: Keeping libraries. ["The power of books for good or evil is great.... Wider knowledge ...must be employed in the construction activities of the nation with patriotic spirit.... To achieve this goal, the State has published over 150 titles of books which are in accordance with the State's principles and also contribute toward `keeping patriotism alive and dynamic.' Under the supervision of the Information and Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Information, public libraries are being opened in various townships ...."] Mar. 23: A bilateral issue of illegal immigrants viewed with goodwill, by An Observer. ["The situation at the border can in no way be seen as a threat to regional stability and we hope a just solution will be fournd in accord with laws of the land and agreement in effect between the two countries."] Mar. 24: H47AARD: Role of the Burma Independence Army, by Maung Dawna. [Role of BIA in 1942. British atrocities at Shwedaung.]] Mar. 25-26: Demarcating a border for peace & security, by Swe Thant Ko. [Celebration of successful boundary demarcation with China and Laos.] Mar. 27: 47th Anniversary Armed Forces Day (Resistance Day). Photos and quotations: Bogyoke Aung San; General Ne Win; Senior General Saw Maung. Articles: "The role of the Tatmadaw in national construction" by Thura Thamein. "Good traditions and qualities of the Tatmadaw" by Ko Soe. "Our Tatmadawmen are among the most disciplined, loyal and effective fighting forces in the world" by Nanda Phyo Thu. Poem: "Revolution in March" by Htila Sithu. Mar. 29-30: H47AAFD: The Ever Victorious and Glorious Tatmadaw, by Sai Thiha. [Victorious battles against insurgents.] Mar. 31: New York Times' "subjective and grossly inaccurate account" of situation along Myanmar-Bangladesh Border rebuffed. [Text of letter published in the New York Times on Mar. 7, from Myanmar UN Deputy Permanent Representative U Thaung Tun, rebutting a Times article of Feb. 7 by Edward A. Gargan.] Pagoda Funds are Public Funds Feb. 25: (Cont.) "Famous Pagodas" whose funds were declared subject to the Public Property Protection Law under Ministry of Home & Religious Affairs Notification No. 2/92 of Feb. 25: Mandalay Division (cont.): Pyin-Oo-Lwin: (67) Nyantaw. Patheingyi: (68) Shwesaryan. Madaya: (69) Taungpyon Suraungpyi. Thabeikkyin: (70) Thihataw. Singaing: (71) Phalinpoe. Amarapura: (72) Nagayon; (73) Shwekyetyet; (74) Shwekyetkya; (75) Patodawgyi; (76) Kyauktawgyi; (77) Yadanagu. Meiktila: (78) Phaungdaw-U; (79) Nagayon; (80) Sigongyi. Kyaukse: (81) Shwethalyaung. Yamethin: (82) Shwemyintin. Bagan-Nyaung-U: (83) Gawdawpalin; (84) Thatbyinnyu; (85) Bu; (86) Tuywintaung; (87) Lawkananda. Mon State: Mawlamyine: (88) U Zina; (89) Kyaikthok; (90) Kyaikdatthok; (91) Kyaukpawlaw. (WPD 3/1) Thaton: (92) Kelatha. Bilin: (93) Kyaikhtisaung. Rakhine State: Sittway: (95) Koenawin. Pauktaw: (96) Hsandawshin. Kyauktaw: (97) Maha Muni. Yangon Division: Bahann: (98) Ngahtatgyi; (99) Chaukhtatgyi. Mayangonn: (100) Kyaikwaing; (101) Naga Hlainggu. Thingangyunn: (102) Kyaikdeiyon Ananda. Pazundaung. (103) Shwephonpwint. Tharkayta: (104) Taya-shittaung; (105) Zina Manaung. Dagon: (106) Maha Wizaya; (107) Eindawya; (108) Seinyaungchi; (109) Alapya. North Okkalapa: Melamu. (WPD 3/2) South Okkalapa: (111) Okkalapa. Yankin: (112) Mogaung. Sanchaung: (113) Koehtatgyi. Mingaladon: (114) Kyaikalo; (115) Kyaikkale. Kawhmu: (116) Danok. Kyauktan: (117) Yelai (Kyaikhamwun); (118) Padagyi. Shan State: Taunggyi: (119) Atula Marazein Myolai Dhammayon. Hsipaw: (120) Bawgyo. Pekhon: (121) Mwedaw. Ayeyarwady Division: Pathein: (122) Laykyun Tanaung Phaungdaw-U. Zalun: (123) Pyidawbyan. Maubin: (124) Shwephonemyint. Danubyu: (125) Kyaikkaluinpon. Hinthada: (126) Ngamyethna; (127) Shwepyaungpyaung; (128) Maha Atula Thakyayanthi Hseihtatgyi Yokshindawmyat. Nyaungdon: (129) Thun Paya. Kyaiklat: Tilawka Marazein. Myaungmya: Setkya Nanda. Wakema: Yanaungmyin Katkar. (WPD 3/ 3) Special Press Conference Mar. 19: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw held a special press conference on the Bangladesh refugee situation, making the following principal points: -- Fabricated, exaggerated, and biased reports have been circulated alleging that Myanmar Muslims "were being oppressed by the Myanmar government and were fleeing across the border to Bangladesh." -- At Myanmar invitation, the Bangladesh Foreign Minister visited Myanmar Nov. 21-23, 1991, and there was lengthy discussion of the "bilateral issue of so-called cross-border human traffic.... It was agreed that a mechanism already existed to resolve the...residency status in Myanmar of those who had chosen to cross over to the other side.... Investigations...revealed ...that...some 2344 were absent when on-ground inspections were made of the household lists of residents of the area bordering Bangladesh. It was explained by the Myanmar side that these absentees could be travelling elsewhere within the country or indeed actually be in Bangladesh." -- "It was agreed...that Bangladesh would provide a list of those who claim to be legal residents on the Myanmar side.... In the past few days a list...has been received... and...is currently being processed ...." -- "in addition [to biased publicity on some foreign media] there exist the unnecessary activities on the part of Bangladesh disseminating unbalanced and unsubstantiated reports to the diplomatic community in Dhaka and elsewhere in the world." -- "It is no secret that [this] issue has been exacerbated by the various terrorist groups operating in the area...[which] have been fabricating malicious stories of autocracies [sic: "atrocities"??] said to have been committed by the Myanmar security forces inciting Moslems to flee across the border. What is amazing is that they have been able to mislead some countries and organizations...in spite of the widespread reports in the international media, acknowledged by foreign governments...that the Myanmar Defence Services...are among the most disciplined, loyal, and effective fighting forces that exist in the world ...." -- "Plans are under way...for the diplomatic corps and the services attache corps to visit the border areas to personally observe...the true situation.... -- "Myanmar...will also...invite ...UN Under Secretary-General Mr. Jan Eliasson, Disaster Relief Coordinator, Department of Humanitarian Affairs, to ascertain for himself and report the true situation without having to resort to concocted stories of non-existent religious persecution, torture and the like." -- "Let those who accuse us of religious persecution compare our standard of religious toleration to their own societies...." -- "The situation in the Myanmar-Bangladesh border can in now way be seen as a threat to regional stability. Myanmar is confident that a just solution will be found in conformity with the existing laws of the land and in accordance with the agreement in effect between the two countries...." The Minister then responded to questions: -- US Charge d'Affaires Franklin P. Huddle asked about the number of refugees and the diplomatic visit to the border area. -- Australian Ambassador Geoffrey Charles Allen asked about Myanmar's arrangements to "accept through scrutiny, the emigrants." -- German Ambassador Baron Walther Von Marschall expressed satisfaction with the invitation extended to UN Under Secretary-General Eliasson. -- Bangladesh Ambassador Mostafa Faruque Mohammad asked about the number of refugees. -- Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona "expressed her delight" at the arrangements made for diplomats to meet with the Myanmar Foreign Minister. -- British Ambassador Julian D.N. Hartland-Swann said the two countries should solve the refugee question between themselves. -- Indonesian Ambassador B.P. Makadada expressed doubt that there were enough boats to transport 5-6,000 refugees a day across the border as had been claimed. -- SLORC Information Committee member Col. Ye Htut said that people entered Myanmar illegally to seek economic opportunities, but that Myanmar had only enough land for its own people. -- Italian Ambassador Dr. Giorgio Bosco said the matter was an important one. Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw responded to these points [not printed]. (WPD 3/20-21) Visit to Rakhine State Mar. 25: State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt and various Ministers and officials visited Sittway, Rakhine State, on Mar. 24. Speaking at the Sittway Degree College, he said that "Some big countries have intensified their false reports and broadcasts.... He further said that the Immigration and Manpower Department is collecting population census systematically at towns and villages in the border area and that it was learnt that the homeless moved to the other country. He pointed out that they then collaborated with unscrupulous persons and were saying fabricated and false things hoping for some kind of opportunity. He stated that some big countries, with ill will against Myanmar Naing-Ngan, are making political moves exploiting the issue." (WPD 3/26) ELECTIONS Party Registration Changes Party registration changes announced by the General Election Commission [in order of Party]. (1) Democracy Party. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (2) National League for Democracy. Hluttaw representatives-elect U Ohn Naing (Paungde-1) and U Aye Than (Paungde-2) have been expelled from the party. Hluttaw representative-elect U Wun (Minthuwun) (Kamaryut) has resigned from the party. (WPD 3/ 12) (8) Democratic Front for National Reconstruction (Union of Myanmar). Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (10) Graduates and Old Students Democratic Association. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (13) Union Karen League. CEC member U Saw San Ba Aung has resigned. GS Mahn Nyunt Maung and JGS Saw Win Bat have been terminated. (WPD 3/6) (16) Arakan League for Democracy. VCh Dr. U Aye has resigned. (WPD 3/ 6) Registration cancelled as of Mar. 6 because most of CEC has resigned. (WPD 3/7) (17) National Unity Party. CEC member U Ohn Kyi has resigned. (WPD 3/12) (24) Mon National Democratic Party. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (25) Patriotic Youth Organization. Deregistered by the Election Committee, Mar. 17, 1992. (WPD 3/18) (30) Zomi National Congress. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (31) Chin National League for Democracy. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (42) Patriotic Old Comrades League. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (45) Shan Nationalities League for Democracy. Patron Sao Yeip Hpa has died. (WPD 3/6) (52) Naga Hills Regional Progressive Party. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (63) Kayah State All Nationalities League for Democracy. VCh U Sap Phyu has resigned from the Party. (WPD 3/ 6) Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (74) Kachin State National Congress for Democracy. Registration cancelled as of Mar. 6 because most of CEC has resigned. (WPD 3/7) (88) National Democratic Party for Human Rights. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (125) Wa National Development Party. CEC member Daw Romai Kat (a) Agnes has resigned from the Party. CEC member U Dashi La has resigned. (WPD 3/6) (133) Ta-ang (Palaung) Nationals League for Democracy. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (158) Union DANU League for Democracy. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (163) Kamans National League for Democracy. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (165) Democratic Organization for Kayan National Unity (DOKNU). Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (166) Mara People's Party (MPP). Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) (167) Union Nationals Democracy Party (UNDP). Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (187) Lisu National Solidarity. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 19, 1992. (WPD 3/20) (207) Lahu National Development Party. JGS U Shar Mway Hla has resigned. New address is: No. 11, Nang Kham Road, Ward 1, Lashio, Shan State. (WPD 3/6) (214) United Nationalities League for Democracy. Registration cancelled by SLORC, Mar. 11, 1992. (WPD 3/12) NLD Hluttaw Resigns Mar. 4: Election Commission Announcement No. 1010 of Mar. 4 permits Pyithu Hluttaw representative elect U Thaung Ngwe (Momauk) to resign "of his own volition." (WPD 3/ 5) Nineteen More Parties Abolished Mar. 11: SLORC Order No. 7/92 of Mar. 11, Order Abolishing Certain Political Parties, abolishes nine political parties on the recommendation of the Election Commission. It said the Commission "has found that certain political parties have not compiled and sent accurate lists of their party strength and of their branches;...have not even been able to present clearly their political philosophy and policy programme;... have been lax in abiding strictly by the existing laws, rules, regulations and bye-laws;...have ignored party organizational activity, apparently under the impression that their standing depends on the election of their representatives." The nine parties abolished are: (a) Kamans National League for Democracy [No. 163] (b) Democratic Organization for Kayan National Unity (DOKNU) [165] (c) Zomi National Congress [30] (d) Democracy Party [1] (e) Graduates and Old Students Democratic Association [10] (f) United Nationalities League for Democracy [214] (g) Mara Peoples Party [166] (h) Patriotic Old Comrades League [42] (i) Democratic Front for National Reconstruction (Union of Myanmar) [8] (WPD 3/12) Mar. 17: Election Commission Announcement No. 1013 of Mar. 17 deregisters the Patriotic Youth Organization [No. 25] because "the majority of its [CEC] members have resigned of their own volition or have been purged from the party according to its organizational rules." (WPD 3/18) Mar. 19: SLORC Order No. 8/92 of Mar. 19, Order Abolishing Certain Political Parties, abolishes nine political parties on the recommendation of the Election Commission, citing the same reasons as in its Order No. 7/92 of March 4 [see above]. The parties abolished are: (a) Mon National Democratic Front [No. 24] (b) National Democratic Party for Human Rights [88] (c) Chin National League for Democracy [31] (d) Naga Hills Regional Progressive Party [52] (e) Kayah State All Nationalities League for Democracy (KNLD) [63] (f) Ta-ang (Palaung) Nationals League for Democracy [133] (g) Union DANU League for Democracy [158] (h) Union Nationals Democracy Party (UNDP) [167] (i) Lisu National Solidarity [187] (WPD 3/20) [This leaves 12 legally registered parties--HCMacD.] Expence Scrutiny Completed Mar. 24: Election Commission Announcement No. 1014 of Mar. 24, a Progress Report on the Commission's Final Report, states that the returns of election expenses of 2,201 Hluttaw candidates have been scrutinized with the help of the Auditor General's Office and the Ministry of Home Affairs, and that "the first step of the scrutiny work has now been completed." "Some" Hluttaw candidates, it was found, did not keep or complete account books, could not present receipts or explain income sources, could not present documentation of expenses or omitted expenses, appointed too many polling booth agents, failed to include affidavits of expenses, etc. Under Sections 88(c), 88(d), and 89 of the Election Rules (cited), losing Hluttaw candidates who fail to submit the return of election expenses shall be disqualified, and winning Hluttaw candidates shall have the Township Election Sub-commission scrutinize their cases and make recommendations on disqualification to the Election Tribunal. When the Commission receives the reports from the Township Election Sub-commissions, it will take appropriate action. (WPD 3/25) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Mar. 3: Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura on Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. Iranian Ambassador Ebrahim Rahimpour on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein, and on Minister for Agriculture & Forests Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 3/4) Mar. 5: The Japanese Ambassador on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Singapore Charge d'Affaires Lam Peck Heng on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 6: Thai Ambassador Virisakdi Futrakul on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. FAO Representative J.S. Lazo on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. The Indonesian Ambassador on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant. Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 10: Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura, and Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul, on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant. The Japanese Ambassador on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. The Thai Ambassador, and Yugoslav Ambassador Dr. Sveto\ar Jovicevic, on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. UNDP Resident Representative Gerd Merrem on Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. (WPD 3/11) Mar. 11: Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul on Minister for Transport and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun and Deputy Minister for Transport U San Wai. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe. Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura on Minister for Construction U Khin Maung Yin. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 12: Indian Ambassador Shrei P.S. Malik, and Yugoslav Ambassador Dr. Svetozar Jovicevic, on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein. UNDP Representative Gerd Merrem on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. The UNDP Representative, and Israeli Ambassador Ori Noy, on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul on Minister for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (WPD 3/13) Mar. 13: Chinese Ambassador Liang Feng on Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. Yugoslav Ambassador Dr. Svetozar Jovicevic on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. UNDP Representative Gerd Merrem on Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 3/14) Mar. 16: The UNDP Representative, and Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem, on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein. Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (WPD 3/17) Mar. 17: The Egyptian Ambassador on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Chinese Ambassador Liang Feng on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein. The Philippine Ambassador on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint. Israeli Ambassador Ori Noy on Minister for Communications, Posts and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. (WPD 3/18) Mar. 20: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem on Minister for Construction U Khin Maung Yin. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 23: Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint. Russian Ambassador Vadim I. Chabaline on Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe. (WPD 3/24) Mar. 24: Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Phone Myint. (WPD 3/ 25) Mar. 25: Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Van Tiep on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (WPD 3/ 26) Mar. 26: The Vietnamese Ambassador, Chinese Ambassador Liang Feng, and American Charge d'Affaires Franklin Huddle, on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Sri Lankan Ambassador S.W. Alawathuwala on Minister for Posts, Communications and Telegraphs U Soe Tha. Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul on State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura, Egyptian Ambassador Mohammed Ghanem, and the Sri Lankan Ambassador, on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (WPD 3/27) New Myanmar Ambassadors Mar. 5: U Thaung, Myanmar Ambassador to the United States, has been appointed concurrently as Myanmar Ambassador to Canada. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 8: U Hla Maung, Myanmar Ambassador to Britain, has been appointed as Myanmar Ambassador to Yugoslavia. (WPD 3/9) Mar. 26: U Nyunt Tin has been appointed as Myanmar Ambassador to Indonesia. (WPD 3/27) Mar. 26: U Tin Tun presented credentials Mar. 24 to President Vaclav Havel in Prague as Myanmar Ambassador to the Czech and Slovak Federal Republic. (WPD 3/27) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Mar. 5: The Myanmar Government has approved the nomination of Mr. John Tenewi Neuk as Ambassador of Malaysia to Myanmar. Ambassador Neuk was born Aug. 20, 1945 and has a B.A. (Hons.). He joined the Foreign Service in 1971 and has served in Singapore, Poland, Nigeria, and Sweden. He is presently Chief of the International Affairs and Strategic Studies Centre at the National Institute of Administration of Malaysia. (WPD 3/5) Mar. 16: The Myanmar Government has approved the nomination of Mr. Dashdavaagiin Chuluundorj as Mongolian Ambassador to Myanmar. The new Ambassador was born in 1933 in Uburhangsi Province, Mongolia, and educated at the Institute of International Relations in Moscow. He has served in the Consular Department, in India, in the Planning and Documentation Department, in Japan, and as Department Head. He was Ambassador to Yugoslavia and is now and concurrently Mongolian Ambassador to India; he resides in New Delhi. (WPD 3/16) Thai-Myanmar Boundary Pact Mar. 11: A ceremony was held in Bangkok on Mar. 12 to exchange Instruments of Ratification of the Memorandum of Understanding between Myanmar and Thailand on the Fixed Boundary on the Mae Sai-Nam Ruak Rivers Sector, between Myanmar Ambassador U Nyunt Swe and Thai Foreign Minister Arsa Sarasin. The sector is 58 kilometres long. In January 1987 an agreement was reached to "effect a fixed boundary along the deep water channel (Thalweg) of the Mae Sai-Nam Ruak Rivers Sector. From 1987 to 1991 join technical teams marked the boundary, erecting markers and producing boundary strip maps. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Yangon on June 18, 1991, by the Deputy Foreign Ministers of the two countries, and has now been ratified by both sides. (WPD 3/13) Some Diplomats Visit Rakhine Mar. 29: A diplomatic study mission led by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw left for Rakhine State, including Myanmar officials, foreign Ambassadors, charges d'affaires, military attaches, and UN officials resident in Myanmar. (WPD 3/30) Mar. 30: On the tour were the Ambassadors from Indonesia, Yugoslavia, Japan, Philippines, Korea, Israel, Russia, Vietnam, China, Egypt, and Thailand; Charges d'Affaires from Singapore, Nepal, and Malasia; UN representatives from UNDP, FAO, WHO, UNICEF; and military attaches from Russia, Japan, Thailand, China, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, and Philippines [all named], as well as local journalists. Failing to join the tour, despite being invited, were British Ambassador Julian Hartland Swan, American Charge d'Affaires Franklin P. Huddle, Jr., Bangladesh Ambassador Mostafa Faruque Mohammad, and French Ambassador Alain Briotet. The tour visited Sittway, Buthidaung, Kyeinchaung and Kyamaungseik villages in Maungdaw Twp. Members met with the populace, and talked with Dr. Chan Tha of the Kyeinchaung Station Hospital, Iman Husaung "who returned to Myanmar from Balahari camp in the other country," Chairman U Hla Maung of Hlaingthe village-tract, and U Ba Khin (a) Sulehi Isman "brother of Nurolislam, Chairman of the AIRF terrorist group who is at present in the other country." Free copies of the Quran were distributed. Following a night and cultural entertainment in Sittway, the group returned to Yangon Mar. 30. (WPD 3/31) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops Mar. 23: A two-day workshop on Human Resources Development (HRD) opened at the Inya Lake Hotel and was addressed by Minister for Transport and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, who said that Myanmar, as a member of ESCAP, fully supports ESCAP HRD initiatives. This is the first Myanmar workshop under the Jakarta Plan of Action adopted in 1988. Also speaking were UNDP Assistant Representative Ms. Flavia Pansieri and UNFPA Country Director Ms. Sabiha Syed. 25 participants and five observers are attending the workshop. (WPD 3/24) Mar. 23: Minister for Planning & Finance and for Trade Brig-Gen. Abel addressed the Seminar on Effective Business Negotiating Techniques jointly sponsored by the Ministry of Trade and the UNDP International Trade Center. 36 senior officials are attending the Seminar, which will end Mar. 26. ITC official Mr. Claude Bruno Cellich also spoke. (WPD 3/24) Mar. 24: The two-day Workshop on the Child's Right to Education, jointly sponsored by the Department of Basic Education, represented by Director-General U Tin Pe, and UNICEF, represented by Resident Representative Mr. Tiruneh Sinnshaw, opened at the Students' Affairs Centre. Papers were read by Dr. Ma Ma Yi of the Department of Health and Mr. Erik Bentsen of UNICEF. (WPD 3/ 25) Mar. 26: A Workshop on Use of Medical Records in Hospital Administration, jointly sponsored by the Ministry of Health and WHO, was held. WHO Representative Dr. K. Wagner and Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin spoke. (WPD 3/27) Foreign Donations Mar. 18: Chairman Mr. Daijiro Okuyama and President Mr. Hiroshi Okuyama of Setsubi Kogyo Co. Ltd. presented onion seeds to the Myanma Farms Enterprise. The Chairman "is a war veteran who once served in Myanmar Naing-Ngan. He is on a visit here for providing aid to hospitals and presented the onion seeds in accordance with his wish to bring about development of Myanma agricultural service." (WPD 3/19) // Mar. 20: Chairman Mr. Daijiro Okuyama gave two cars to the Ministry of Health. (WPD 3/21) // Mar. 21: President Mr. Hiroshi Okuyama "explained ways to construct and use plastic septic tanks" at the Ministry of Health. (WPD 3/22) Water Projects Feb. 28: Australian Ambassador Geoffrey Charles Allen and Mr. Kalidas Ray of UNICEF visited the Australian-financed Taungzin water supply project in Bagan-Nyaung-U. Equipment for the 66KV substation was purchased with the support of the Australian AIDAB and transported with help from UNICEF. It will serve 98 villages and 100,000 villagers. (WPD 3/1) Mar. 6: An agreement for implementing the extension project for the Yangon water supply was signed by the Yangon City Development Committee (YCDC), represented by Secretary U Pan Aung, and M/S Binnie and Partners of England, represented by Mr. Christopher D. Walter. The agreement provides for the distribution of another 27 millions of gallons of water by repairing old pipes and installing new ones. Current water supply is 75 million gallons. The two-year project will cost US$6 million. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 13: YCDC authorities met with South East Asian Manager Mr. Bruno Mercier of Andaman Co., France, to purchase machinery and spare parts by counter trade, and for renovation of the concrete pipe plant. (WPD 3/ 14) UN Child Convention Mar. 12: Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein addressed the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child Implementation National Committee, led by Dr. Aung Tun That, Director-General of Planning and Statistics. (WPD 3/13) Books for US Buddhists Mar. 25: The Department for the Promotion and Propagation of the Sasana donated 185 books of Buddhist Canons in Pali, Myanmar, and English to the Missionary Sayadaw Bhaddanta Somabuddhi Sundararama Brahmavihara of Los Angeles, California for use in the propagation of Theravada Buddhism in America. He received the Agga Maha Saddhammajotikadhaja Title on Mar. 9. "The Most Venerable Sayadaw teaches the basic principles of Theravada Buddhism to children, conducts courses on Abhidhamma and teaches Satipatthana Vipassana Meditation in America. He conducts a seven day...course and about 40 devotees practise meditation in each course. He also travels to such cities as San Francisco and preaches the Dhamma; conducts Vipassana courses and hold talks on Theravada Buddhism at the universities and colleges on request and teaches Theravada Vipassana meditation to Tibetan Buddhists including Lamas." He will return to the USA on April 21. (WPD 3/26) Agricultural Cooperation Mar. 1: A new strain of sunflower, which is expected to produce 25.3 baskets per acre, is being grown in inundated areas of Ayeyarwady Division. 100,000 acres is expected to be grown in 1992-93. (WPD 3/2) Mar. 19: FAO Resident Representative J.S. Oscar Lazo and Myanma Agriculture Service representative Dr. Mya Maung toured Ayeyarwady Division Mar. 13-16 to meet peasants and discuss agricultural development. (WPD 3/20) FOREIGN VISITORS Business Visitors Mar. 4: Mr. Zhao Mingqi, Assistant to the President of China National Aero Technology Import & Export Corporation called on Minister for Transport, for Social Welfare, and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun. They discussed a demonstration flight of a K-8 plane jointly produced by China and Pakistan. (WPD 3/5) International Agency Visitors Mar. 20: Dr. Allen Jones and Mr. P. Stinbre, UNDP officials in Yangon to "draw up plans for development of cottage industries," called on Deputy Minister for Co-operatives U Than Aung. (WPD 3/21) Orbis Flying Hospital Mar. 7: The Orbis Flying Hospital, which visited Myanmar last year, arrived again "to impart new eye operation techniques to Myanmar counterparts and carry out treatment on the plane up to 27 March." Myanmar eye specialists and nurses will watch the operations, via TV, in the airport lecture hall. (WPD 3/8) // Mar. 10: Dr. Chedly Bozouaya and Manager Ms. Pius Taormina of the Hospital called on Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 3/ 11) // Mar. 11: Dr. Bozouaya and Ms. Taormina called on Minister for Transport and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun. (WPD 3/12) // Mar. 20: Orbis President and Executive Director Mr. Oliver Foot arrived, and will spend a week. (WPD 3/21) // Mar. 25: Mr. Foot called on Minister for Transport and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun. He also called on Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein, and donated about US$100,000 worth of eye surgical equipment. (WPD 3/26) // Mar. 26: Mr. Foot called on SLORC Vice-Chairman Gen. Than Shwe. The Orbis Flying Hospital made its second visit to Myanmar Mar. 7-26. The Hospital, with a staff of about 30, provided training for 50 Myanmar eye specialists and 170 nurses in Yangon and Mandalay, repaired equipment at EENT [Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat] hospitals in Yangon and Mandalay and donated equipment worth US$100,000. (WPD 3/ 27) // Mar. 27: The Flying Hospital departed. (WPD 3/28) Foreign Buddhists Mar. 16: Three Sayadaws, two nuns, and a layman arrived to receive religious titles from the SLORC for 1992. They are Sayadaw Bhaddanta Khemeinda of Japan, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Dhammananda of Thailand, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kondanya of Thailand, Nuns Daw Gunawati and Daw Sudhammawati of Nepal, and Sayagyi Goinkar of India. (WPD 3/17) Tourists Mar. 17: A charter flight from Banglore, India arrived with 68 tourists, under arrangements between the Myanmar Hotel and Tourism Services and Hapag-Lloyd Travel Agency, Germany. The same company brought 90 tourists in January and 70 in February, but this is the first over-night visit. The 68 tourists toured Yangon, are staying at the Inya Lake Hotel, and will leave Mar. 18 for Medan, Indonesia. (WPD 3/18) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Mar. 4: A delegation led by Director-General of the Co-operative Department Col. Maung Hti left for China on a three-week study tour of mills, factories and business activities in Kunming, Beijing, Shanghai and four other cities, at the invitation of the Hao Yu Co. Ltd. Other members are Vice-Chairman of the Central Co-operative Society U Kyi Win, Chairman of the Shan State (North) Syndicate of Township Co-operatives [STC] U Ba Hla, Secretary of the Mandalay Division STC U Aung Than, and Deputy Branch Manager U Tun Hlaing and Assistant Director U Saw Samson Hla of the Co-operatives Department. (WPD 3/5) Mar. 21: Assistant General Manager U Khin Maung Latt of the Inspection and Agency Services left for the Netherlands to attend a seminar on promotion of exports. (WPD 3/22) Delegations to Meetings & Events Mar. 1: A delegation led by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw left for Laos to attend the 2nd Myanmar-Lao Meeting on Bilateral Co-operation in Drug Abuse Control in Vientiane. Other members are Police Director-General Maj-Gen. San Thein, Maj. Thwin Myint Maung of the Office of the Defence Services Commander-in-Chief, Maj. Than Aye of Defence Services Intelligence, Director Police Col. Ngwe Soe Tun of the Narcotics Division, U Aye Myint of the Ministry of Home & Religious Affairs, and staff officer Daw Moe Thuzar. The first meeting was held in Yangon in Sept. 1991. (WPD 3/2) // Mar. 7: The delegation returned. UNDCP officials who attended the meeting were Bangkok Regional Director William Beachner, Lao UNDCP Adviser Alexander Segar, and Myanmar UNDCP adviser John Kristensen. (WPD 3/8) Mar. 11: A Myanmar technical delegation headed by Capt. Tun Aung (MN), Commander of the Naval Hydrographic Depot, left for Xien Hung, Yunnan Province, China, to attend the Mar. 13-17 tri-partite meeting on the determination of the tri-junction point of the Myanmar, Lao and China boundaries. Other members are Director-General U Mya Thein and Adviser U Maung Maung of the Survey Department, Director U Nyunt Maung Shein and Branch Head U Khin Maung Win of the Boundary Division of the Foreign Ministry, Lt-Col. Pe Nyein and Maj. Than Tun, General Staff Officers at the Office of the Commander-in-Chief (Army), and Cmdr. San Myint (MN), Deputy Commander of the Naval Hydrographic Depot. (WPD 3/12) // Mar. 20: The delegation returned, after signing the Agreed Minutes of the Meeting on Mar. 16 with Mr. Xu Wenyi, head of the Chinese delegation, and Mr. Ouan Phommachack, head of the Lao delegation. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 12: A delegation led by Minister for Home & Religious Affairs and for Culture Lt-Gen. Phone Myint, Chairman of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (CCDAC), left for Bangkok to attend a Mar. 12-15 Tripartite Ministerial Conference on Drug Abuse Control between Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. Other delegation members are CCDAC Vice-Chairman Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, CCDAC Secretary People's Police Force Director-General Police Maj-Gen. San Thein, Managing Director U Tin Hlaing of the Myanma Agricultural Service, Lt-Col. Kyaw Thein of the Office of the Director of the Defence Services Intelligences, and staff officers Lt-Col. Khin Maung Win and Daw Moe Thuzar. (WPD 3/13) // Mar. 15: The delegation returned. A joint communique discussed exchange of narcotics information and intelligence, crop substitution and Highland development, drug abuse prevention, treatment and rehabilitation, training, and technical assistance. It also called for effective control of precursor chemicals by countries producing or distributing them. The next Tri-Partite meeting will be in Myanmar. (WPD 3/16) Mar. 17: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, who had stayed on in Bangkok for an informal Ministerial Meeting among Mekong Riparian States on Mar. 16, returned. With him was personal assistant Daw Moe Thuzar. (WPD 3/18) Mar. 27: A 21-member traditional music and cultural troupe led by Director-General of Fine Arts U Tin Htoo left for Japan at the invitation of the Min-On Concert Association, Inc. (WPD 3/28) Delegations Return [Delegations which left in previous months.] Mar. 4: The 18-member cultural troupe led by Director U Nyunt Khin of the Fine Arts Department returned from the 3rd Yunnan Province cultural festival. (WPD 3/5) MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The SLORC made the following appointments, on probation: Mar. 12: Capt. Khin Maung Htoo (Navy/1088), Ministry of Defence, to be Manaqing Director, Myanma Five Star Line, Ministry of Transport. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 20: U Soe Myint, Director, to be Director-General, Supreme Court. U Aung Than, Pro-Rector, to be Rector, Yangon Institute of Technology, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. U Hla Tun Aung, Pro-Rector, to be Rector, Mawlamyine University, Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Education. U Shwe Tun Maung, General Manager, to be Managing Director, Public Works, Ministry of Construction. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 25: Commander Thein Tun (Navy), Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of Energy, to be Director-General, Energy Planning Department, Ministry of Energy. U Thaung Sein, Chief Engineer, to be Managing Director, Myanma Electric Power Enterprise, Ministry of Energy. U Kyaw Myint, General Manager, to be Managing Director, Myanma Railways, Ministry of Rail Transportation. (WPD 3/26) Appointments Confirmed The SLORC confirmed the following appointments, after one year's probation: Mar. 4: U Soe Tint as Director-General, Government Office. U Khin Maung Ohn as Director-General, Department for Myanmar Missions Abroad, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Dr. U Sein Yi as Director-General, Department of Indigenous Medicine, Ministry of Health. (WPD 3/5) Appointments The SLORC made the following direct appointments: Mar. 12: Dr. U Ko Lay, Rector, Institute of Medicine-2, to be Director-General, Health Manpower Department, Ministry of Health. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 20: Dr. Tun Maung, Rector of Mandalay University, to be Rector of Yangon University. (WPD 3/21) GOVERNMENT Saw Maung--Homage & Pilgrimages Feb. 28-Mar. 3: State LORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Saw Maung and a large entourage made a pilgrimage to the Bagan-Nyaung-U and the Mount Popa area, visiting numerous religious sites. (WPD 2/29-3/4, photos 3/5) Mar. 10: State LORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Saw Maung paid homage to visiting Konlon Sayadaw U Tejaniya of Pindaya Twp., Shan State. (WPD 3/11) Mar. 12: Senior General Saw Maung paid homage to visiting Aungmingala Bodaw Kyaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Labhavamsa of Hsipaw Twp., Northern Shan State. (WPD 3/13) Mar. 17: Senior General and Madame Saw Maung "shared the merits gained from pouring water of libation" at the transfer to the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Building of nine Sasanika Buildings at the State Pariyatti Sasana Tekkatho in Yangon. [phoots] (WPD 3/18) Peasants Day Message Mar. 2: State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung's 1992 Peasants Day Message [excerpts]: "During the time when the country lost its independence and fell into servitude, the entire peasantry suffered greatly under the repressive exploitation of avaricious colonialist and imperialist governments and the foreign capitalists and their minions. "If the condition of the peasantry in the lower parts of Myanmar Naing-Ngan for a 50-year period, from 1835 to 1885, when it fell under the British colonialists [sic], is reviewed, it will be seen that the capitalists employed various tricks and different evil schemes in order to exploit and profit from rice transactions. "In 1830, the sown acreage of paddy in the lower parts of Myanmar Naing-Ngan was only 66,000 acres and this was made to increase to 235,000 acres in 1835. In making the cultivation of paddy increase thus annually, the sown acreage in 1885 reached 3,700,000 in lower Myanmar Naing-Ngan. "The impetus given in extending the cultivation of paddy was not in the interests of the people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, but in the interests of the other colonies and regions of the British. It was aimed at enabling the companies, which they had monopolized, to gain huge profits. "In India, which was British colony, big mutinies broke out among the troops in 1857-58 and there was unrest in the country which affected the agricultural work and therefore, huge amounts of rice from Myanmar Naing-Ngan were exported to India. Moreover, in 1860, when Abraham Lincoln became President of America, he initiated efforts for abolition of slavery, and civil war broke out between the South and the North and brought about food shortages. Especially in Carolina State where there was a big food deficit and the people faced great hardship. The British colonialist government exported and sold huge quantities of rice from Myanmar Naing-Ngan to those areas. "By looking at this, it is significant historical fact that Myanmar Naing-Ngan helped solve the food problem of the people of India and the United States with the rice from Myanmar Naing-Ngan and therefore, Myanmar Naing-Ngan had been their benefactor since ancient times. "The British colonialist government, in making the cultivation of paddy to be increased 18-fold within a period of 50 years, they brought in cheap labour from India into Myanmar Naing-Ngan in large numbers indiscriminately whtiout any control whatsoever. "The British imperialists in bringing in people from India into Myanmar Naing-Ngan, brought in 73,000 Indians in 1862 and after 10 years the number increased to 137,000 in 1872 and then to 246,000 in 1881, according to historical records. "Throughout their rule, the British imperialists not only did not take any steps to raise and develop the interests of the entire nationals of Myanmar Naing-Ngan, but also did not take steps to protect their interests from being affected. They always stood on the side of the foreign capitalists and the Chettyars who lent money at very high interest rates and thus the peasants suffered many hardships, like those sailing in a raft, and yet going thirsty. "Thus, under the British imperialist rule, the crime rate in Myanmar Naing-Ngan increased two-fold from 1904 to 1912, which is unprecedented, as can be found in the records. In 1910, the Minlaung Maung Thant uprising broke out in Myinmu area in Sagaing District. Although the imperialists wrote and ridiculed Minlaung Maung Thant as craving to become a king and was of unsound mind, in reality this uprising was the struggle waged by the peasants from Sagaing, Monywa and Shwebo areas against the colonialists. Similarly, the peasants in upper parts of Myanmar Naing-Ngan in 1928, made a person from Shwebo area with the title `Bandaka' as their leader and manoevred to revolt and attack the colonialists. "In 1929-31, together with the world economic crisis, the price of rice in Myanmar Naing-Ngan fell to its lowest and the British colonialists, who were ruling the country at that time, did nothing to redeem the situation at all but levied poll tax and land tax by force. Everybody is aware that due to this, the peasants uprising, led by a leader of the Wunthanu group Saya San, took place. "According to the lessons from history, the entire people, including the mass of the peasantry, are to kindle a high anti-colonialist spirit and it is necessary to oppose and remove all lackeys of the colonialists...." "As the year 1992 has been designated as the State's economic year, it is the duty of the entire peasantry to serve the interests of the State to cultivate more and produce more. They are to be urged to grow, not only paddy, but also varieties of oil-seed crops, pulses and beans, sugarcane, cotton, jute and other crops, under multiple and mixed cropping system on all cultivable land with might and main as far as the conditions permit. "Moreveor, in selling the crops produced by the peasants, they should do so on priority basis in order to fulfil the requirements of the State so that the State machinery will run smoothly and efficiently as it sees to all the affairs of the peasants, including their security, education, health and social welfare. It will amount to showing gratitude towards the State by selling their produce on priority basis to the State and co-operative organizations and joint venture organizations...." (WPD 3/1) Civil Jurisdiction Extended Mar. 3: Supreme Court Notifications 6/92 and 7/92 have increased the jurisdiction of Judges from State/Division and Township courts in civil cases under Section 11 of the Law regarding the administration of justice. The increase is from K50,000 to K500,000 for Deputy State/Division [S/D] Judges; from K50,000 to K200,000 for Assistant S/D Judges; from K10,000 to K50,000 for Township Judges and Additional Township Judges; from K5,000 to K10,000 for Deputy Township Judges. If powers are delegated to them by S/D Judges, Deputy S/D Judges may hear cases involving up to K1,000,000, and Assistant S/D Judges up to K500,000. S/D Judges and Additional S/D Judges continue to have unlimited jurisdiction as to suit value. Judges in 20 Yangon and 4 Mandalay townships promptly began to hear cases under the new limits, which apply to pending cases as well as new ones. (WPD 3/5) New Ministers and Ministries Mar. 5: SLORC Notification No. 17/ 92 of Mar. 5, Reorganization of Ministries, divides the Ministry of Agriculture & Forests into: (1) Ministry of Forestry; (2) Ministry of Agriculture. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 5: SLORC Declarations Nos. 3 & 4 of Mar. 5, Reassignment of Portfolio of Minister, reassign: Minister for Co-operatives Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw as Minister for Culture; Minister for Agriculture & Forests Lt-Gen. Chit Swe as Minister for Forestry. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 5: SLORC Declaration No. 5 of Mar. 5, Appointment of Ministers, names: (1) Maj-Gen. Mya Thinn as Minister for Co-operatives; (2) Maj-Gen. Myint Aung as Minister for Agriculture. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 20: SLORC Notification No. 23/92 of Mar. 20, Reorganization of Ministries, divides the Ministry of Home & Religious Affairs into the: (1) Ministry of Home Affairs (2) Ministry of Religious Affairs. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 20: SLORC Declarations Nos. 6/92 and 7/92 of Mar. 20 appoint: Defence Services Deputy Commander in Chief Gen. Than Shwe as Minister for Defence; Yangon Command Headquarters Commander Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt as Minister for Religious Affairs. (WPD 3/ 21) New Service Organization Heads Mar. 5: SLORC Notification No. 18/92 of Mar. 5, Appointment of Head of Service Organization, names: South-West Commander Maj-Gen. Myint Aung (BC/6917) as Adjutant-General of the Ministry of Defence, on probation. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 24: SLORC Notification No. 24/92 of Mar. 24, Appointment of Head of Service Organization, names: Vice-Adjutant-General Brig-Gen. Min Thein (BC/8188) as Quartermaster-General, Ministry of Defence, on probation. (WPD 3/25) Religious and Military Awards Mar. 9: SLORC Notification No. 19/ 92 of March 6 awards religious titles to "Most Venerable Sayadaws, Ganthadura Pariyatti Lecturer Sayadaws, Vipassanadura Meditation Instructor Sayadaws, Touring Dhamma Preachers, Local and Foreign Buddhist Missionary Personnel and outstanding donors of the four kinds of requisites to the Buddhist Sasana" as follows: Aggamahakammathanacariya Title: 1 [named]; Aggamahasaddhammajotikadhaja Title: 3 [named]; Mahasaddhamajotikadhaja Title: Sayadaws 1, Laymen 1 [named]. (WPD 3/10) Mar. 9: SLORC Notification No. 20/ 92 of Mar. 6 awards military titles as follows: Thiha Thura Title: 1 [named]; Thura Title: 4 [named]; Gallantry Medal: 39 [named]; (WPD 3/10) Medal (2nd Class) for Excellent Performance in Industrial Economy Field: 4 [named]; Medal (1st Class) for Excellent Performance in Administrative Field: 3 [named]; (WPD 3/11) Medal (2nd Class)...: 10 [named]; Medal (3rd Class)...: 11 [named]; Medal (2nd Class) for Excellent Performance in Social Field: 1 [named]; Medal (3rd Class...: 1 [named]. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 18: At a further ceremony on Kaba Aye Hill, more religious titles were presented: Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhammajotika Title: 18 [6 named]; Abhidhaja Maha Ratha Guru Titl; 3 [named]; Agga Maha Pandita Title: 15 [unnamed]. Eight Toyota SE and three Mazda Pathfinder cars were donated to eleven of the Saydaws given titles. (WPD 3/19) Mar. 27: SLORD Notification No. 26/92 of Mar. 27 presents titles and medals of honour as follows: Thiha Thura Title: 1 [named]; Thura Title: 11 [named]; Gallantry Medal: 62 [named]; Medal (2nd Class) for Excellent Performance in Industrial Economic Field: 3 [named]; Medal (3rd Class)...: 1 [named]; Medal (1st Class) for Excellent Peformance in Administrative Field: 2 [named]; Ye Thurein Medal: 1 [named]. (WPD 3/27) Tariff Legislation & Rules Mar. 12: SLORC Law No. 2/92 of Mar. 12, the Tariff Law [full text printed] repeals the Tariff Act, 1953, and provides that the Minister for Planning and Finance may establish and change tariffs, and may exempt both private and Government exports and imports from customs duty, subject to Government approval. Other administrative measures are provided. (WPD 3/13) Mar. 12: Ministry of Planning and Finance Notification No. 18 of Mar. 12 [text not printed] contains "new rates of tariff." The list of goods stated in Appendix A of the notification may be examined at the Customs Department. "Similarly, regarding exemption from levy of customs duties, a notification cancelling all goods under the heading `A. General' concerning imports of goods of the Notification No 370 issued on 15-9-61" was also issued. These changes "have been issued to keep the system of levying customs duties in accordance with the market-oriented economic system and to have the same system of grouping and symbolizing goods being practised in most nations of the world, and are not meant to change the rate of tariff levied on goods exported from Myanmar or goods imported to Myanmar." (WPD 3/13) Mar. 29: Ministry of Trade Import License Fees Amendment Order No. 3/92 was issued "to enable the import work to be carried out more smoothly and efficiently." [Text not published]. (WPD 3/30) Saw Maung on Koran Distribution Mar. 21: State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung sent the following message to the "ceremony for free distribution of copies of Holy Quran by Amin Hawa Waqf", which was read at the ceremony by Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. [text]: Esteemed leaders of various Islamic schools of thought, Islamic religious leaders, representatives of Islamic faith of various States and Divisions and Maulvis of mosques and teachers of madarasas:- On this auspicious day, I would like to wish, with true cetana, health and happiness in both body and mind to all leaders of the Islamic faith and representatives who are attending this grand ceremony for distribution of free copies of Holy Quran, which has never been witnessed in the history of Myanmar Muslims. Due to the special respect and privilege given in Myanmar Naing-Ngan for freedom of religion to enable all to profess the religion of their choice which is the fundamental human right has enabled the four major religions to exist in peace and unity and to flourish. All citizens who reside in the country are well aware of this, understand it and rejoice at it. The four major religions, which are professed by the majority of the people in Myanmar Naing-Ngan, are all fulfilling the needs and bringing benefits to mankind in the present world as well as hereafter. In doing so, there are also religious scriptures which play vital roles in giving guidance and showing the right path and therefore, the ceremony for distributing free Holy Quran in which the people of Islamic faith believe in, today, is an auspicious religious ceremony for the people of Islamic faith. Thus, I would like to wish health and happiness to those of Islamic faith who are attending this ceremony for distribution of copies of Holy Quran, which is based on the guidance of "Allah the Almighty" in whom the people of Islamic faith trust and believe. Sd/ Saw Maung Senior General Chairman, State Law and Order Restoration Council and Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services (WPD 3/22) Supplementary Appropriation Law Mar. 26: SLORC Law No. 3/92 of Mar. 26, the State Supplementary Appropriation Law, 1992, approves supplementary expenditures to the State Budget Law 1991 [see March 1991 BPS]: Schedules. Figures in kyats, by line number, with following abbreviations: ordinary {Ord}; interest {Int}; contributions {Cont}; capital expenditures {Cap}; disbursement of loans {Loan}; repayment of loans {Repay}; investments {Inv.}; Savings {Sav}. [line numbers from the State Budget Law, 1991] Schedule I - SUPPLEMENTARY EXPENDITURES State LORC, Election Commission, Government, Chief Justice, Attorney General and Auditor General: 1/SLORD: Ord-10,354,500; Cap-288,740,890 4/Ch.Just: Ord-5,574,890; Cap-7,239,070 5/Atty-Gen: Ord-6,090,000; Cap-7,200,000 6/Aud-Gen: Cap-800,000 TOTALS: Ord-22,029,390; Cap-43,979,960 Schedule II - SUPPLEMENTARY EXPENDITURES Ministries and Departments: 1/FonAff: Ord-5,500,000 2/Defence: Ord-614,343,800; Cap-871,089,000 3/Home&Rel: Ord-395,032,600; Cont-151,533,000; Cap-542,561,600 4/Soc.Wel,Resett: Ord-76,469,000; Cont-15,075,000; Cap-28,828,000 5/Info: Cap-93,623,070 6/Cult: Ord-2,789,310; Cap-49,066,000 7/Educ: Ord-1,063,318,900; Cap-713,203,000 8/Health: Ord-21,888,170; Cont-125,000; Cap-590,793,280 9/Lab: Ord-1,520,000; Cap-1,408,000 11/Live&Fish: Ord-19,100,360; Cap-1,812,700 16/Const: Ord-561,020,000; Cap-978,215,200 18/Trade: Inv-658,000 19/Coops: Ord-7,718,890; Cap-4,628,940 20/Pl&Fin: Ord-82,465,880; Int-406,868,000; Cont-1,431,216,000; Cap-9,054,820 --/Transp: Ord-1,677,000; Cap-138,601,490 --/Comm,Posts,Tel: Ord-366,660 --/Forest: Ord-73,051,600; Cap-28,310,000 --/Agric: Ord-86,380,000; Cap-77,711,000 21/Pensions&Grat: Ord-13,867,000 TOTALS: Ord-3,031,509,170; Int-406,868,000; Cont-1,597,949,000; Cap-4,128,906,500; Inv-658,000 Schedule III - SUPPLEMENTARY EXPENDITURES State Economic Enterprises 1/St.E.Ent: Ord-2,667,194,000; Cap-1,221,796,240 Schedule IV- SUPPLEMENTARY EXPENDITURE Development Committees and Municipalities 1/Yang.Dev.Comm: Ord-52,942,150; Cap-614,187,430 2/Home&Rel.Min: Ord-309,495,750; Cap-136,219,500 TOTALS: Ord-362,437,900; Cap-750,406,930 (WPD 3/27) Armed Forces Day & Speech Mar. 27: On the occasion of the 47th Anniversary of Armed Forces Day (Resistance Day) State LORC Chairman Senior General Saw Maung gave a dinner to which foreign diplomats and others were invited [photographs show Ambassadors from Indonesia, Korea, Sri Lanka, China, Vietnam, Russia, and Laos.]. At the annual parade earlier in the day, he made the following speech [excerpts]: "The doings of each individual or historic epochs of a nation in the past, either good or bad, have a direct effect on the present. Therefore the stream of history in the past cannot be forgotten, nor neglected. This relates to cause and effect.... If we review the historic past concerning our having been driven into servitude, as will be seen clearly in historic records, we will vividly see in them the wrong-doings of the British, Portuguese and French colonialists and their wrongful suppression and bullying." First Anglo-Burmese War "The British colonialists realized the importance of the geopolitical location of our Myanmar Naing-Ngan beginning with the 18th Century through the 19th Century.... They greatly coveted our nation which is within reach of the three regions and which is of strategic military, economic or political importance .... [They] schemed against us and started engaging us brazenly through Assam, Manipur and Cacha regions. [The rulers of Assam and Manipur owed allegience to the Myanmar King, but revolted because of British incitement. The British then staged the First Anglo-Myanmar War in 1824] "In fighting the Myanmar on the Indian sub-continent, the British colonialists not only took an upper hand militarily, but also in political, propaganda and psychological warfare. In his directive to Assam, Cacha and Manipur, Brigadier-General Shuldham of the British forces was said to have urged: `Indians, drive out from your territory Myanmar people who have looted and consumed your cattle and cooperate with our British armed forces who have come to save you.' The fact is, it is not just today that the British colonialist forces who had pushed Indians into slavery, exploited their natural and mineral resources and also raped Indian girls are setting up India versus Myanmar and resorting to `thief shouting Stop thief'. We must take note that this had occurred even over a century ago.... "It is clearly chronicled in history how the Myanmar Tatmadaw totally eliminated the 40th Bengali Infantry Regiment on whom the colonialists depended, at the Battle of Pan-Wa in Chittagong District.... One Lieutenant De Rhe Philipe wrote in his diary: `If, after totally decimating the entire Bengali Infantry Regiment at the Battle of Pan-Wa, the Myanmar General had continued his offensive, the Myanmar Army could easily have taken Chittagong and Bengal.' I want to tell all of you, the youth and all the people of the land, including our Tatmadawmen, to search for and read these.... "General Sir Archibald Campbell engaged the Mon people of the area in a psychological and propaganda ploy. In a...`Request to Mon Nationals' he said: `We have not come like this to make war against the noble Talaing people. We have come only to save you from the Bamar people who have for many years tormented you in many ways and enslaved you and to fight the Myanmar King's government. If you want to live in freedom and peace, come under our flag.' The fact that they thus tried to sow bad blood can vividly be seen in the book on colonial era of Myanmar history. "It must be said in this connection that it is not only now that colonialists are broadcasting what is tantamount to sowing bad blood between our national brethren. I want to tell all Myanmar nationals here and now to beware that it was ever since a hundred years ago that they have been scheming to drive a wedge between brethren nationals.... "Maha Bandoola said...: `When we engaged the Whites at Danyawady frontier, we were only retaking our territory from those who had unfairly usurped it. We did not engage in territorial expansion and take the land that belonged to others.... However, the Whites are not those who reason like us. They are only those who bully and rudely invade our land. The British who hail from an island and failed to make good at Danyawady are again trying to make an approach from the sea to encroach on our land. If we take it lightly, our entire race will become their slaves. Death is better than being enslaved. Therefore, we must sacrifice our lives in wresting the land of the pagoda back from the hands of the Whites....'" Portuguese Colonialism in 1600s "Today, as it is opportune, let me recount briefly how one colonialist group and national traitor maggots schemed together against the State in the 15th Century...." [Capture of Syriam {Thanlyin} by the Portuguese adventurer de Brito, 1600-1616, his alliance with Banya Dala, the Mon ruler of Moktama, and "the traitor" Natshinnaung of Toungoo, and their eventual destruction at the Battle of Thanlyin by the Bamar King Anaukphetlun.] "One of our neighbours to the west of us, India, due to her peculiar nature was able to dismantle the Portuguese enclave of Goa only in 1963. If you study that, you will realize that our anti-Portuguese colonialist action had a headstart over India by exactly 350 years...." Third Anglo-Burmese War "The British colonialists waged their third war of invasion in 1885 and took Myanmar Naing-Ngan. There is evidence that from the time the entire nation became enslaved, our various indigenous nationals stood up against the colonialists for a decade.... "Although the colonialists derisively described our revolutionaries as robbers and bad hats in their books, the fact is, those revolutionaries, our patriotic ancestors at that time were to us heroes. "Our ancestors highly regarded the monarch who ruled them as Lord of Land and Water, Absolute Ruler and Patron of the Sasana. They sincerely believed that only when a coronated monarch ruled would there be peace and tranquillity, would the Sasana flourish. Therefore, when they ran into an unqualified ruler, they desired change. They did not desire the dismantling of the monarchy and its replacement by another system. That reflects the love of one's race, patriotism that existed then. "For many centuries Myanmar society was maintained through a triangular relationship of monks who are the learned intellectuals, the ruling monarch and the people, and it established and sustained that Myanmar life.... "Therefore, if we draw a lesson from history, we must clearly understand that for national defence, we must rely on the strength within ...." Japanese Occupation "We know that in fact Fascism itself is the outcome of the worst corruption of capitalism. Fascists showed great cruelty to our ancestors. Just as the Fascists cruelly exterminated many of our nation's worth sons, they insulted the modesty of many of our nation's worthy daughters. The Fascists did not even spare members of the Sangha we revere.... The Fascists gave our nation sham independence, and they too, like the colonialists, started sucking blood here.... Some 50 Japanese capitalis companies...exploited the economy of our nation as they pleased.... The sons and daughers of our land, our elder brother Tatmadawmen wanted to rise in resistance.... However, we had to bide time and only on 27 March 1945 was it officially declared and the entire nation stood up together in anti-Fascist resistance.... Even the British authorities conceded that 52 per cent of the Fascists fell at the hands of the Myanmar Tatmadaw. Such was our victory. "Therefore, those called Fascists and Colonialists were only different in the way they are called, but are of identical intent, and I urge you to always bear in mind that we must always oppose and crush the hegemonistic acts of some such big powers ...." Karen-Burmese Enmity "Who can deny the fact that among the armed terrorist groups today, the KNU, the KIA and the Karenni, who are the most stubborn and steeped in racial enmity were of British colonial machination? They believe that they come from the Caucasus, which has no common land or sea connection with us.... "[After 1885] the plan was executed by American Missionary Dr. Vinton and British High Commissioner Sir Charles Bernard to employ Kayins to put down and eliminate the Bamars .... Dr. Vinton...told [his flock] that the Kayin nationals were under the will of God...to remove the Bamars who worshipped images.... He had thus dastardly used religion to agitate and incite people into a political-racial act.... That...Kayins [armed by Dr. Vinton] were used against fellow nationals...in 1886 and 1887 is to us, food for thought. "By the same token, when it was not successful in using Bamar police to arrest anti-British patriots, Kayin nationals were pressed into service to put down the Bamars.... "Again, armed force comprising some organized Kayins was used to brutally put down the opposition... organized by...Saya San whose peasant followers were oppressed and bullied. Even at present the British Broadcasting Corporation...is striving to incite and devise various means to sow bad blood, making use of national traitors they have reared.... "I want to make it known...that there is no intention whatsoever to stir up hard feelings between Kayins and other nationals but speaking only about some who are resorting to terrorism in delving history and divulging such facts.... It is necessary to always bear in mind that the vast majority of our nationals are very simple and hospitable brethren...." Message to Insurgents "What I want to say distinctly here to Nga Mya...and KIO leader Brang Seng and Khun Sa...is that... our Tatmadaw is working for democracy to come into being, for drug menace eradication, for human rights and other endeavours. We are encouraging the emergence of a Constitution which is urgently needed. Our Tatmadaw Government...will not make any decision regarding future state ideology, State Constitution, political systems and rights and duties of all citizens including all nationals and that it will offer advice if necessary.... So there is no need to be armed and fighting us in this day and age...." Political Situation "After World War Two, there emerged two kinds of Constitutions in our country. The first kind...in 1947... was written hurriedly in order to regain independence.... In accord with the people's overwhelming approval, [the 1974 Constitution] prescribed a single-party leadership and a socialist system.... In 1988, there was talk of dislike for single party system and demand for multi-party democracy. Everyone knows there was disregard for consent and demand for interim government.... There is concrete evidence that they mixed it up with religion. It is even evident today that some so-called learned people were involved .... "Currently, while our Tatmadaw is taking up responsibility we are governing by marial law.... Martial law means the Commander-in-Chief decides what is good as he sees it.... This cannot be opposed by anyone, any organization and any country. You must understand that no other law can counter what we have done.... "You must understand that our nation has switched over to market economy and has started practising it.... "We are moving toward the emergence of a firm and strong State Constitution after proper consultation with leaders of our various brethren nationals and representatives, elected to the Hluttaw by the people, after they are cleared of infringement of prescribed laws. After which we are to pass State power to the shoulder of the government which emerges in consonance with the Constitution.... "Some political parties bent on their own party attaining power the quickest way...are to be seen relentlessly doing what they have been up to.... They are seen disregarding the law, seeking self-interest, without due respect for the Buddha, His teachings and the Sangha and, amazingly, thus acting like those who have lost their sanity...." [Selfishness, ineffectiveness, and misbehaviour of political parties described.] "We want to distinctly declare that we will never accept in the political arena the morally corrupt, ...politicians who lack patriotism, who think highly of other countries and politicians who want exact replicas of the ways things are done abroad...." Foreign Affairs "I notice that some of the so-called big powers need to show profound feelings and cetana towards other nations big and small.... No one should take advantage of another's problems and make it grow and cause national disintegration and bloodshed and killing...." Messages to Tatmadaw "You...need to take as much care as possible not to appear rude in dealing with the public. However, when at battle, it is battle. You must be decisive. Do it courageously. Treat those who realize their faults and enter the legal fold as your own brothers.... Disintegrative elements still exist today ...[and] are trying to approach and penetrate our Tatmadaw, through flattery, threats, bribery and corruption. They must not be accepted. All service personnel, including Tatmadawmen, must stay aloof from political parties...." (WPD 3/28) 1992 State Budget Law Mar. 30: SLORC Law No. 4/92 of Mar. 30, the State Budget Law, 1992, effective Apr. 1, 1992, provides as follows: Parts I-IV - General Provisions. Schedules. Figures in kyat, by line number, with following abbreviations: Receipts: taxes {Tax}; from State Economic Organizations {St}; other current {Cur}; interest {Int}; capital {Cap}; foreign aid {AID}; recovery of loans {Recov}; drawal of loans {Loan}; investments {Inv}; savings {Sav}. Expenditures: current {Cur}; interest {Int}; contributions {Cont}; capital expenditures {Cap}; disbursement of loans {Loan}; repayment of loans {Repay}; investments {Inv}; savings {Sav}. Schedule I - RECEIPTS State LORC, Election Commission, Government, Chief Justice, Attorney General, Auditor General: 1/SLORC: Cur-10,628,900; Cap-11,800 3/Gov't: Cur-5,500; Cap-1,500; AID-3,126,160 4/Chief Justice: Cur-57,881,700 5/Att'y-Gen: Cur-28,500 6/Aud-Gen: Cur-175,000; Cap-150,000 TOTALS: Cur-60,719,850; Cap-463,300; AID-3,126,160 Schedule II - EXPENDITURES State LORC, etc.: 1/SLORC: Cur-131,455,760; Cont-38,000,000; Cap-143,595,670 2/Election Comm: Cur-4,000,000; Cap-968,620 3/Gov't: Cur-59,930,000; Cap-5,752,510 4/Chief Justice: Cur-89,980,000; Cap-20,951,060 5/Att'y-Gen: Cur-43,869,000; Cap-8,980,000 6/Aud-Gen: Cur-99,643,000; Cap-12,321,550 TOTALS: Cur-428,877,760; Cont-38,000,000; Cap-192,569,410 Schedule III - RECEIPTS Ministries and Departments 1/Taxes on inland productions and public consumption (Tax): 1-1 Excise duty: 22,566,700 1-2 Commercial tax: 3,144,000,000 1-3 Import licenses: 160,000,000 1-4 State lottery: 750,000,000 1-5 Transport taxes: 44,073,250 1-6 Stamp sales: 97,572,300 (TOTAL - 4,218,212,250) 2/Taxes on income & ownership (Tax): 2-1 Income tax: 1,111,000,000 2-2 Profit tax: 623,292,000 (TOTAL - 1,714,292,000) 3/Customs duties (Tax): 3-1 Customs duties: 1,600,000,000 (TOTAL - 1,600,000,000) 4/Taxes on utility of State owned properties (tax): 4-1 Land rev. taxes: 45,179,800 4-2 Water & embankm.: 18,275,800 4-3 Forest produce: 255,487,000 4-4 Minerals tax: 6,009,400 4-5 Fisheries tax: 240,000,000 4-6 Rubber tax: 170,000 (TOTAL - 565,122,000) 5/Receipts from State Economic Organizations (St): 2,769,671,000 6/For.Aff: Cur-1,700,000; Cap-600,000 7/Defence: Cur-54,822,000 8/HomeAff: Cur-36,798,510; Cap-134,000; AID-6,773,000 9/Rel.Aff: Cur-9,120,500 10/Soc.Wel,Rel.&Resett: Cur-2,092,090; AID-650,000 11/Info: Cur-8,680,500; AID-267,000 12/Cult: Cur-1,308,550; Cap-50,000 13/Educ: Cur-210,329,000; AID-5,970,000; Loan-6,926,000 14/Health: Cur-16,322,800; AID-10,891,000 15/Labour: Cur-14,000; Cap-1,000; AID-1,654,000 16/Forest: Cur-31,069,890; AID-19,242,00; Loan-12,915,000 17/Agric: Cur-153,191,510; Cap-1,650,000; AID-27,320,000; Loan-47,323,000 18/Livest&Fish: Cur-33,696,300; AID-3,000 19/Mines: Cur-4,114,000; Cap-50,000 20/Ind(1): Cur-12,5323,700; Cap-50,000; AID-2,050,000 21/Ind(2): Cur-70,500 22/Energy: AID-1,600,000 23/Const: Cur-39,917,300; Int-200,500; Cap-1,000,000,000; AID-3,325,000; Recov-1,400,000; Loan-40,197,000 24/Trans: Cur-54,674,800; AID-18,891,000; Loan-5,960,000 25/RailTrans: Cur-13,025,000 26/Comm,Post&Tel: Cur-20,002,000; AID-700,000 27/Trade: Cur-22,675,000; AID-537,000 28/Coops: Cur-9,535,000 29/Pl&Fin: Cur-65,845,000; Int-210,180,000; Cap-16,000; AID-247,792,000; Recov-323,837,000; Loan-852,000; Inv-312,116,000 30/Pens.&Gratuities: Cur-301,500 TOTALS: Tax-8,117,626,250; St-2,769,671,000; Cur-801,838,450; Int-210,380,500; Cap-1,002,551,000; AID-347,665,000; Recov-325,237,000; Loan-114,173,000; Inv-312,116,000 Schedule IV - EXPENDITURES Ministries & Departments 1/For.Aff: Cur-75,239,000; Cont-652,000; Cap-23,999,980 2/Defence: Cur-4,801,056,000; Cap-2,564,286,000 3/HomeAff: Cur-1,047,668,000; Cont-50,736,650; Cap-284,450,490 4/Rel.Aff: Cur-26,962,000; Cont-2,654,950; Cap-4,152,970 5/Soc.Wel,Rel.&Resett: Cur-57,649,000; Cont-18,300,000; Cap-44,533,340 6/Info: Cur-146,912,000; Cap-215,910,580 7/Cult: Cur-16,505,000; Cont-4,000; Cap-98,000,000 8/Educ: Cur-3,149,698,000; Cont-531,000; Cap-728,308,200 9/Health: Cur-672,375,000; Cont-5,441,400; Cap-627,001,540 10/Labour: Cur-24,860,000; Cont-150,000; Cap-7,295,060 11/Forest: Cur-203,128,000; Cont-1,072,500; Cap-86,402,570 12/Agric: Cur-581,057,000; Cont-10,013,000; Cap-389,368,220 13/Livest.&Fish: Cur-73,788,000; Cap-53,239,980 14/Mines: Cur-39,273,000; Cap-3,499,290 15/Ind(1): Cur-28,027,000; Cap-12,258,850 16/Ind(2): Cur-707,000; Cap-608,000 17/Energy: Cur-3,326,000; Cap-30,732,940 18/Const: Cur-303,609,000; Cap-311,249,280 19/Trans: Cur-77,167,000; Int-433,000; Cont-669,700; Cap-87,819,780; Repay-1,980,000 20/RailTrans: Cur-19,751,000; Cap-986,000 21/Comm,Post&Tel: Cur-12,394,000; Cont-773,000; Cap-2,476,600 22/Trade: Cur-12,264,000; Cont-200,000; Cap-950,000 23/Coops: Cur-208,798,000; Cap-22,000,100 24/Pl&Fin: Cur-172,122,000; Int-396,330,000; Cont-40,455,000; Cap-160,976,300; Repay-266,122,000; Inv-432,883,000; Sav-300,000 25/Pens.&Gratuities: Cur-621,895,000 26/Grat&Commut.Pens: Cur-130,500,000 27/Reserve Fund: Rex-100,000,000 TOTALS: Cur-12,506,730,000; Int-396,763,000; Cont-131,655,200; Cap-6,260,506,070; Repay-268,102,000; Inv-432,883,000; Sav-300,000; Res-100,000,000 Schedule V - RECEIPTS State Economic Enterprises 1/St.Econ.Ent: Cur-40,981,317,000; Cap-29,133,000; AID-90,476,000; Recov-12,266,000; Loan-313,628,000 Schedule VI - EXPENDITURES State Economic Enterprises 1/St.Econ.Ent: Cur-38,902,285,000; Cap-3,102,554,060; Loan-11,976,000; Repay-954,131,000; Inv-161,825,000 Schedule VII - RECEIPTS Development Committees and Municipalities 1/YangonDC: Tax-217,357,000; Cur-367,862,000; Cap-126,959,000 2/HomeMin: Tax-113,596,930; Cur-384,501,590; Loan-1,630,000 3/Def.Min: Tax-752,140; Cur-7,180,150 TOTALS: Tax-331,706,070; Cur-759,543,740; Cap-126,959,000; Loan-1,630,000 Schedule VIII - EXPENDITURES Development Committees and Municipalities 1/YangonDC: Cur-370,285,500; Cap-243,904,000; Repay-1,000 2/HomeMin: Cur-393,205,500; Cap-39,766,580; Repay-9,050,800 3/Def.Min: Cur-6,342,700; Cap-4,696,190 TOTALS: Cur-769,833,700; Cap-288,366,970; Repay-9,051,800 (WPD 3/31,4/1-2) MILITARY Tatmadaw Military Operations Mar. 7: The Nos. 44 and 88 Forward Light Infantry Divisions on Mar. 5 captured the KNU Bina camp on the Thai border, killing 17 terrorists and capturing 1,100 rounds of ammunition, 27 bunkers, 32 huts, etc. [details]. Tatmadaw losses were one dead and 16 wounded. [map] (WPD 3/8) Mar. 15: The No. 66 Light Infantry on March 14 captured the KNU Point 4044 Kway-eik-taung Camp, known as Htwiphawikyee Camp, seizing 68 weapons and 275 bunkers [details]. 155 KNU terrorists were killed. Tatmadaw losses were 19 killed and 27 wounded. [map] (WPD 3/16) Mar. 18: The No. 66 Light Infantry on Mar. 17 captured four KNU hill camps including Point 3610. 33 KNU terrorists were killed; captured were 27 weapons, 37 mines, 1,810 rounds of ammunition, and 170 bunkers. Tatmadaw losses were 1 killed and 9 wounded. [map] (WPD 3/19) Mar. 24: In the past year, Operations Thurein Tun and Yan Naing Min were launched in the Northern Command area, and Operation Aung Hein Moe in the North-East Command area. In the Northern Command area, between Mar. 21, 1991 and Mar. 20, 1992, there were 25 major battles and 230 skirmishes. -- On May 27, there was a battle with 40 KIA terrorists who crossed the Nmai Hka River in Injanyang Twp. [Kachin]. Six KIA were killed; no Tatmadaw casualties. -- On July 10, there was a battle with 30 KIA terrorists at Manweigwin, Kamaing Twp. [Kachin]. Four KIA were killed; no Tatmadaw casualties. -- Beginning Dec. 27, operations were launched against 300 KIA terrorists in the Singnan, Tanaiyang, and Janbidak regions of Tanai Twp. [Kachin]. The Tanaiyang camp fell Dec. 30; the Singnan camp Jan. 1, and the Janbidak camp Jan. 4, after 3 battles and 9 skirmishes. Five KIA were killed and 36 captured, and weapons, 58 huts, a video theatre, and lecture hall were captured [details]. Two Tatmadawmen were killed and 9 wounded. -- On Feb. 8, there was a skirmish with 12 KIA terrorists in Moe-lai-chaung, Momauk Twp. [Kachin]. Four KIA were killed; no Tatmadaw casualties. Altogether, in Northern Command, 189 terrorists were killed, 132 captured, and 239 "returned to the legal fold." Captured were 275 weapons, ammunition, 3.6 kilos of heroin, 338 kilos of opium, 72 viss of jade, K725,400, 40 mules, and a dead elephant [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 49 killed and 77 wounded. In the North-East Command area, under Operation Aung Hein Moe, there were 3 battles and 70 skirmishes. -- On Jan. 1, there was an engagement with 40 SUA terrorists at estimate U-044598, near Tochin village, Lashio Twp. [Shan]. Two terrorists were killed; one Tatmadawman was wounded. -- On Jan. 3, there was a battle with 100 SUA terrorists at estimate T-970550, near Point 5239 on the Lwephakan Mountain Range in Lashio Twp. Four terrorists were killed; Tatmadaw casualties were one officer and 5 men killed. -- On Feb. 9, there was a battle with 100 SUA terrorists at estimate U-920536, near Mankong village, Lashio Twp. Six terrorists were killed; Tatmadaw losses were two killed and 6 wounded. Altogether, in North-East Command, 37 terrorists were killed, 27 captured, and 11 surrendered. Seized were 45 weapons, ammunition, 57.4 kilos of heroin, 152 kilos of raw opium, 120.9 viss of jade [details]. Tatmadaw losses were one officer and 24 men killed, and one officer and 61 men wounded. [two maps] (WPD 3/ 25) Mar. 25: During the past year, the Tatmadaw launched Operation Kyaw Naing Soe in the Eastern Command area and Operations Nagamin and Thanlyet in the South-East Command area. In Eastern Command there were 12 battles and 204 skirmishes. -- On July 2 the Tatmadaw raided Hanpo village, Pekhon Twp. [Shan], and encountered 80 KNLP, KNPP, and ABSDF terrorists, of whom 10 were killed; one Tatmadawman was killed. -- On Sept. 3-10 there were 5 battles and 27 skirmishes with 150 KNPP and KNU terrorists in the Htihta and Hpehta areas of Pasawng Twp. [Kayah]. 10 terrorists were killed; captured were 734 tons of teak, a caterpillar, a 10-wheel truck [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 30 killed, including 1 officer. Altogether, in Eastern Command, 244 terrorists were killed, 35 captured, and 65 surrendered. Seized were 181 weapons, ammunition, 15 mules/horses, 2.1 kilos of heroin, 104 kilos of opium, 1055 viss of jade, K192,505, 587 cattle, 1,565 logs, etc. [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 3 officers and 89 men killed, and 10 officers and 262 men wounded. In South-East Command there were 94 battles and 498 skirmishes. -- On Dec. 19 the Tatmadaw fought 4 battles with 60 KNU terrorists and captured their Nahitaung Camp, Yebyu Twp. [Tanintharyi]. Nine terrorists were killed, and ammunition seized; no Tatmadaw casualties. -- On Feb. 1 the Tatmadaw captured Ywahaylu camp, defended by 200 KNU, ABSDF, and Muslim terrorists in Bokpyin Twp. [Tanintharyi] after 10 battles and 20 skirmishes. 22 terrorists were killed and 67 weapons, 130 mines, vehicles, 3,000 logs, and 80 huts, etc. were captured [details]. Tatmadaw losses were seven killed and 22 wounded. -- Between Dec. 22-Feb. 5, the KNU No. 6 brigade, ABSDF Nos. 204, 205, and 206 battalions, and Muslim terrorists, totalling 200 men, were attacked in the Azin area of Kyeikdon, Kya-in-Seikkyi Twp. [Kayin], in 3 battles and 20 skirmishes. 36 terrorists were killed and 2 captured, and 16 weapons, ammunition, etc. seized [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 25 Tatmadawmen and 5 service personnel killed, and 92 Tatmadawmen and 42 service personnel wounded. -- On Feb. 4, the KNU Yekyaw Camp, with 250 KNU terrorists, was captured in an 8 hour battle. 28 terrorists were killed and 34 weapons and ammunition [details] seized. Tatmadaw losses were one officer and one man killed, and two officers and 16 men wounded. -- On Mar. 5, the KNU Bina Camp, defended by 200 KNU terrorists, was captured after a 4 1/2 hour battle. 17 terrorists were killed and ammunition seized [details]. Tatmadaw losses were one killed and 16 wounded. -- From Mar. 9-14, Tatmadaw columns "for crushing the KNU headquarters Manerplaw Camp" captured the enemy strongholds on Point-4044, the base of 500 terrorists. 155 terrorists were killed, and 68 weapons, etc. [details] captured. Tatmadaw losses were 19 killed and 27 wounded. -- The main hill was captured Mar. 17 and Point-3610 on the same day. 33 terrorists were killed and 37 mines, etc. [details] seized. Tatmadaw losses were one killed and 9 wounded. Altogether, 497 terrorists were killed, 27 captured, and 276 surrendered. Seized were 585 weapons, 106 mules/horses, 50 viss of jade, K193,965, 34,920 bahts, 8 caterpillars, 186 cattle, 3 elephants, 6,427 logs, etc. [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 3 officers and 119 men killed, and 4 officers and 416 men wounded. [2 maps] (WPD 3/26) Mar. 26: During the past year, the Tatmadaw launched Operation Mondaing in the South-West Command area. There were nine battles and 83 skirmishes. -- On Oct. 8 the Tatmadaw attacked 50 KNU terrorists in Htawbaing Creek, Bogalay Twp. [Ayeyarwady]. Six KNU were killed and 7 weapons captured [details]; three Tatmadawmen were killed. -- On Oct. 13 the Tatmadaw fought 100 KNU terrorists in Ohnbinsu village, Myaungmya Twp. [Ayeyarwady]. 59 KNU were killed and 59 weapons seized. Tatmadaw losses were three killed and five wounded. -- On Oct. 16 there was a battle with 70 KNU terrorists at the mouth of Hlaingbon Creek, Myaungmya Twp. Ten terrorists were killed and one weapons seized. -- On Oct. 18, in a battle with KNU terrorists in Ayoeda Khwin, Myaungmya Twp., 13 KNU were killed and 8 weapons seized. -- On Oct. 21, in a battle with KNU terrorists in the Tawgyi area of Ngapudaw Twp. [Ayeyarwady], 10 KNU were killed and 3 weapons seized. -- Also on Oct. 21, in a battle with KNU terrorists at Kwinyaung Creek, Ngapudaw Twp., 17 KNU were killed and 12 weapons seized. Altogether in South-West Command, 317 terrorists were killed, 25 captured, and 3 surrendered. The Tatmadaw captured 251 weapons, ammunition, 20 powered boats, etc. [details]. Tatmadaw losses were 14 killed and 22 wounded. Throughout Myanmar, during the past year, the Tatmadaw launched Operations Thurein Tun and Yan Naing Min in the Northern Command area; Operation Kyaw Naing Soe in the Eastern Command Area; Operations Nagamin and Thanlyet in the South-East Command Area; and Operation Mondaing in the South-West Command Area. There were a total of 1,228 battles, including 143 major ones. Tatmadaw losses were 302 killed and 8855 wounded. Terrorist losses were 1,184 killed, 246 captured, and 594 surrendered. Captured were 1,337 weapons, ammunition, equipment, 126 mules/ horses, 63.2 kilos of heroin, 594 kilos of opium, 1299 viss of jade, K1,111,870 and Baht 34,920, 9 bulldozers, 8 cars, 773 cattle, 3 elephants, etc. [details]. The Tatmadaw (Navy) seized 2,811 vessels, including illegal trawlers and smuggling boats, in Myanmar waters, and caught 2,763 smugglers and illegal fishers. The Tatmadaw [Air?] seized 25 small arms, 6,499 rounds of ammunition, 60 viss of bird's nest. Two terrorists surrendered. Total value of seized vessels, machines, etc. was K214.35 million. [map] (WPD 3/27) Insurgent Attacks Mar. 6: KNU terrorists on Mar. 5 entered Winkanain village, Shwekyin Twp. [Bago], and opened fire with small arms, killing four and wounding seven civilians. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 24: Local terrorists Htawt Lay and Phapale from Wykyon Twp., Pa-an [sic], under orders from KNU terrorist Johnny, on Mar. 13 burned down the Musotaung Zedi (Pagoda) in Kyettuyway village, Hlinebwe Twp. [Kayin]. (WPD 3/25) Mar. 29: KNU terrorists on Mar. 27 fired four mortar shells into Myawady [Kayin] "from a point at the foot of the Hsnkyon Pagoda Hill across the border." Three people were wounded and a shop destroyed. (WPD 3/30) Insurgents Surrender Feb. 29: 21 KNU, ABSDF, and KIA terrorists surrendered, with their arms, from Jan. 1-20, 1992 [names and details]. (WPD 2/1) Mar. 2: Between Jan. 21-27, 16 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 3/3) Mar. 20: Between Feb. 2-13, 14 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 22: Between Feb. 14-29, 15 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 3/23) Tatmadaw Reorganization Mar. 25: Speaking at a military hospital, Chief of Staff (Army) Maj-Gen. Tin Oo "pointed out that the Tatmadaw was being re-organized systematically as the nation would be strong only when the Tatmadaw is strong. But certain circles were criticizing the program, he said. He went on to say that the re-organization programme was to prevent the nation from plunging into servitude again and to make the Tatmadaw capable of defending the nation." (WPD 3/26) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Mar. 4: 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 Feb. 3} Record of recent projects.] Construction & Other Projects Feb. 29: A new auto telephone line was inaugurated in Kawa Twp. [Bago] on Feb. 26. A veterinary medicine plant, jointly sponsored by the Livestock, Feedstuff and Milk Products Enterprise and the Guyo-march Export Co. of France. was opened; it can produce 300 tons per year. (WPD 3/1) Mar. 1: A new building at the Hline Twp. State Middle School No. 7 [Yangon] was inaugurated Feb. 29. It cost K1.7 million. (WPD 3/2) Mar. 3: Hydel power plants were inaugurated Mar. 1 at Mongla in Kengtung Twp. and Hsilu in Mongyaung Twp. [Shan]. The first cost K2.93 million and the second K1.43 million. (WPD 3/4) Mar. 5: A new K1.5 million bridge across Mahuya creek was inaugurated Feb. 27 in Tamu Twp. [Sagaing]. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 6: Piped water was introduced Mar. 4 in Loikaw. The system will cost K12.4 million. "One ward of the Loikaw now has piped water at a preliminary stage." (WPD 3/7) Mar. 7: The Chanmya-shwepyi hotel and truck terminal in Mandalay, owned by the Mandalay Development Committee, was inaugurated Mar. 6. The hotel and terminal cover five acres, with eight buildings. The hotel is two-storey and has 34 rooms; overall construction cost was K17.5 million. (WPD 3/8) Mar. 9: The Kyaukpyu Economic Branch Bank [Rakhine] was inaugurated Mar. 6. The branch bank was constructed beginning in 1983-4, and cost K3.45 million. (WPD 3/10) Mar. 11: A K1 million 100-line telephone exchange was inaugurated Mar. 8 at Thawutti, Lewe Twp. [Mandalay]. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 17: Six escalators for the Theingyizay Market D Complex arrived on the MV Magway. Two arrived Dec. 24, and eight more are expected from London on the MV Sagaing in April. (WPD 3/18) Mar. 26: A new bridge linking North Okkalapa and Dagon Myothit [Yangon] was inaugurated Mar. 26. It is 600 feet long, 40 feet wide, and construction began June 12, 1989. (WPD 3/27) Mar. 27: The dual-lane section of Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, 1,600 feet long, was inaugurated. (WPD 3/28) Mar. 29: The new Kawthoung-Bokepyin road in Tanintharyi Division was inaugurated Mar. 25; it is 132 miles long and was built in 112 days. The Meza-Hitgyaint all-weather road, between Kyaunggon and Htigyaint on the Shwebo-Myitkyina Strategic Road, was inaugurated Mar. 27. (WPD 3/30) Mar. 30: The new Kalein-aung-Kanpauk Road in Kanpauk village, Yebyu Twp. [Tanintharyi] was inaugurated Mar. 26. (WPD 3/31) Commercial Registrations Feb. 28: During February 1992, the Ministry of Trade registered 34 limited companies, one foreign company branch office, and 22 partnerships, bringing the total to 1,300, 137, and 717 respectively. (WPD 3/1) Feb. 29: During February 1992, the Ministry of Trade registered 47 exporters, 49 importers, and 34 business representatives, bringing the total (minus cancellations) to 2,125, 1,455, and 735 respectively. (WPD 3/1) Energy, Fuel, and Transport Feb. 29: Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein formally initiated operations at Laymyethna No. 1 Oil Test Well in Hinthada Twp. [Ayeyarwady]. (WPD 3/1) Mar. 1: State LORC Secretary (2) Maj-Gen. Tin Oo visited the natural gas pipeline of the Aphyauk test-well in Taikkyi Twp. [Yangon]. The 14.5 mile pipeline, being constructed by the No. 11 Light Infantry Division, will bring natural gas from the well to the main pipeline at Thanatchaung village, from where it will go to factories in Yangon, Tanyin [Syriam], and Hmawby. The existing 6 inch pipeline from Kyetphugan to Zigon villages is being replaced with an 11-mile 10 inch pipeline to send natural gas to Hmawby and Danyington. (WPD 3/2) Mar. 5: An agreement was signed between Myanma Petroleum Products Enterprise and Castrol Singapore Pte. Ltd. for selling and distributing fuel oil and lubricants on a consignment basis. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 9: The first 100 (of 200) bogies purchased from Yunnan Machinery and Equipment Import & Export Corporation, arrived at Lashio, via Muse, on Feb. 29. The rest will arrive in May. The contract, for US$283,000, was signed in Nov. 1991. (WPD 3/10) Mar. 16: 40 more Daewoo buses, out of 200 ordered by the Road Transport, arrived on the MV Mawlamyine. The new Ro Ro II ferryboat was completed; it is 130 ft. long, 30 ft. wide, and draws 6 feet. Fitted with a 250 HP engine, it cost over K2 million and can carry 7 ten-ton trucks. It will be used on the Insein-Hlinethaya ferry service. (WPD 3/17) Mar. 27: Beginning Mar. 26, oil can be exploited commercially from Well No. 116 of the Pyaytaungdan Oil Field. (WPD 3/28) Gems and 29th Gems Emporium Mar. 2: Total sales at the 29th Myanma Gems Emporium were K52,909,943 (US$8,771,397). Of this K1,720,856 went to joint ventures and K4,246,822 to private entrepreneurs. The sales broke "the sales record." 585 merchants from 18 countries participated. (WPD 3/3) Mar. 6: 29th Myanma Gems Emporium: Source of finest gems, by Maung Maung Aye. [Interviews on notable gem sales.] Mar. 26: A new site with rough ruby deposits has been discovered, thanks to "some patriotic and duty-conscious persons." They deposited with the authorities 369 rough rubies weighing a total of 227 carats, including one 11.7 carat stone. Subsequently, 301 star rubies weighing 111 carats [details] and 67 cabochon rubies weighing 15 carats were obtained. They are of "exquisite quality" with varying colours including pigeon blood. Tests are under way to decide whether to designate the area as a "stone tract of the State." [photo] (WPD 3/27) New 10-pya Coin Mar. 2: A new 10-pya coin will be issued on April 1. The design is the same as that announced Feb. 27, 1983, except that the legend (in Burmese) reads "Central Bank of Myanmar" instead of "The Union of Burma Bank," and the date is 1991. [photo]. The coin is circular, with a diameter of 20.42 mm and a thickness of 1.3 mm. The edge is smooth (not milled). The weight is 2.8 grammes. All currency coins currently in use remain legal tender. (WPD 3/3) Coop Exports Mar. 10: Co-operative Societies export earnings were US$610,000 in 1989-90; $3.16 million in 1990-91; and $9.29 million in 1991-92. The target for 1992-93 is $11.33 million. (WPD 3/11) Banking System Mar. 12: Speaking at the Myanma Economic Bank (Head Office), Deputy Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Win Tin said changes in banking were being made "to do away with unnecessary steps...so as to expedite the banking service.... He pointed out that there still exist service personnel who violate rules and directives of the upper-level departments and are seeking their own benefits by abusing the rights. He said owing to these corrupt personnel, there has been lack of confidence on the part of public in the banking service.... Drastic action will be taken against those who are engaged in corrupt practices, self-seeking and bribery. He declared that to be able to adopt banking systems of international levels and to acquire necessary know-how, arrangements have been made to seek foreign aid as well as [sic] service personnel are sent on study tours in the country and as delegations and trainees to foreign countries." (WPD 3/14) Mar. 23: Deputy Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Win Tin told Myanma Economic Bank officials "to give every assistance to their customers to gain their confidence," and asked them to "open counters at which old currency notes may be changed for new ones. [photos of torn and taped banknotes which may be exchanged for new ones] (WPD 3/ 24) Rainfall in Yangon Rainfall, in inches, at Yangon's three weather stations of Yangon Airport (YA), Kaba-Aye (KA), and Central Yangon (CY) was: YA KA CY 1987 97.01 100.98 95.43 1988 99.17 100.00 107.76 1989 96.22 100.59 102.76 1990 ll8.35 109.92 122.84 1991 91.81 83.78 96.65 1992, as of: March 30 00.00 00.00 00.00 HEALTH AIDS Mar. 3: A national level meeting was held to discuss communicable disease control with especial reference to malaria and AIDS along the border of Myanmar and Thailand. Dr. Teera Ramasoota led a 7-member delegation from Thailand and gave an opening speech, as did Director-General of Health Dr. Maung Kyaw. The meeting will last until Mar. 6. (WPD 3/4) Blood Donations Needed Mar. 5: There is "urgent need for blood at the Yangon General Hospital and other hospitals in Yangon for surgical operations," and the public is requested to donate. (WPD 3/6) Contraception Mar. 20: Dr. Suporn and Mr. Gill from tne UN Population Fund will lecture on "Contraceptive Technology" Mar. 22 at the Myanmar Medical Association Auditorium. (WPD 3/21) SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations Mar. 7: Deputy Director U Khin Maung Win of the Sports and Physical Education Department (SPED), accompanied by Deputy Director U Kyaw Mra and Assistant Director U Khin Maung Lwin, left for Singapore to attend the 17th South East Asian Games Organizing Council meeting. (WPD 3/8) // Mar. 11: The delegation returned. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 11: The Myanmar Paik-kyaw-chin team (Sipak Takraw) returned Mar. 8 from the 8th Thai Royal Cup Sipak Takraw Competition. It stood second in the Regu event and lost a quarter-final match in the team championship event. (WPD 3/12) Mar. 14: A youth team headed by Tennis Federation President U Soe Tint left to participate in the Mar. 16-22 Hong Kong Youth Tennis Championship. Players are Khing Maung Win (Industry-1) and Sai Myint Aung. (WPD 3/15) // Mar. 19: Myanmar won the first two men's singles matches, defeating Canadian and Hong Kong players. (WPD 3/20) //Mar. 24: The team returned, after winning two out of four singles matches, and one out of two doubles matches. (WPD 3/25) Foreign Teams and Delegations Mar. 1: The Yunnan gymnastics and Wushu team was entertained in Mandalay, where it performed on Feb. 25-26. (WPD 3/2) National Sports Festival Mar. 6: The Seven Objectives of the National Sports Festival are: 1. To carry out sports activities as a national task under the motto "Myanmar Sports--The World to Conquer." 2. For the people to come to believe that promoting sports is, in one way, to build and defend the country. 3. To engage in sports with the objective of Keeping Patriotism Alive and Dyanmic and for re-awakening nationalism and love for motherland. 4. To turn out new generations of promising athletes who will attain world standard. 5. For the entire nation to take active part and render all-out support for the promotion of Myanmar sports standards. 6. For responsible personnel at different levels to take active part in helping to produce promising athletes by employing modern techniques. 7. To establish greater friendship among outstanding athletes spread throughout the country so as to strengthen Union Spirit. (WPD 3/6, etc.) Mar. 6: Donations for the festival total almost K18 million. Some K1.4 million donated yesterday, some by apparently foreign donors. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 12: 42 local and foreign well-wishers donated K1.6 million, bringing the total to K19.6 million [details]. (WPD 3/13) Mar. 19: 39 local and foreign well-wishers donated K1 million, bringing the total to K20.6 million [details]. (WPD 3/29) Mar. 21: Sports--old codgers and wags, by Ivan King. ["Good Luck to a soccer revival which can also become a forerunner of everykind of sport that is yet to prove its potential in this sports crazy land of fun and frolic."] Mar. 26: 40 local and foreign well-wishers donated K1.1 million, bringing the total to K21.7 million. (WPD 3/27) CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles Mar. 1,8,15,22,29: Foundations of Myanmar Culture: Myanmar literature and the ten major jatakas, by Hnaphet Hla. [Cont. (84-88)] Mar. 1,8,15,22,29: Poems (in English and Burmese). [(1-2) "Our relative, grandfather Ayeyarwady" by Min Ye Kyaw. (2-4) "Life's outlook through experience at 60" by Htila Sitthu. (3) "Dear Ayeyarwady" by Thiha Aung. (4) "East and West" by Thiha Aung. (5) "Poems on a journey to Yunnan" by Htila Sitthu. (5) "The fool's cycle of existence" by Tekkatho Maung Thu Hlaing.] Mar. 1,8: Myanma classical poetry, by Htila Sitthu. [(13-14) Historical survey, with samples in Burmese.] Mar. 1,8,15,22,19: Short Stories. [(1-5) (5-9) "Our Mother" by Maha Shwe. (1-5) (4-8) "Dar" by Min Swe. (2-3) "Mood and inspiration" by Pe Than. (4-5) "The determinant" by Pe Than.] Mar. 1,15,22,29: Ancient Myanmar Military Terms, by U Thein Than Tun. [Cont. (3-6) Terms from old inscriptions defined and dated.] Mar. 15,22,29: Nationalist Poetry, by Htila Sithu. [(1-3) Nationalist poetry since 1885.] Mar. 23: Thirty-second World Meteorological Day, by Maung Tun Lwin (Meteorologist). ["The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology of Myanmar has 27 WWW {World Weather Watch} stations from Putao...to Kawthoung ...."] Religious Matters Mar. 3: At the 3rd Yangon Division Working Commission of Sangha, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vannasiri made the following criticisms of Sangha practises: -- Some Sayadaw members of Division or Township Sangha Nayaka Committees failed to meet and consult, or even hold required annual meetings. They should resign. -- Township Sangha Nayaka Committees hold religious examinations, which is good. But, there are irresponsible acts such as "some invigilator Sayadaws reading newspapers or falling asleep while the examination was being held; some of them pretending not to see candidates copying from others because [they] belonged to the monasteries of the invigilator Sayadaws...but taking action against the candidates because they were from other monasteries; some reporting irregularities with prejudice; and invigilators and the laymen collaborating to allow irregularities; some abbots and...Committees enlisting the names of candidates who were not in the Township during the lent; and some getting hold of the question papers, taking out, answering them and copying them in examination halls." Some "talked in such a way as supporting those irregularities." -- Some abbots "accepted a large number of candidates and encouraged irregularities," and some State Central Committee Sayadaws "forewarned those concerned that supervisors of the State Sangha...and Religious Affairs Department were due to arrive." -- Some Township Sangha Nayaka Committee chairmen or secretaries "issued letters contrary to the resolutions passed without consulting others...." Yangon Commander Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt "supplicated on religious matters." (WPD 3/4) Mar. 4: "A get-together of peoples of different faiths to strengthen friendly ties between all religions in Upper Myanmar Zone was held...in Mandalay...under the sponsorthip of the Myanmar-Muslim National Affairs Organization...." Muslim representatives from Kachin, Kayah, Chin, Sagaing, Mandalay, Magway, Mon, Yangon, Bago, and Ayeyarwady attended. Speeches were given by Mandalay representatives of Muslims, Buddhists, Christians, and Hindus. Election Commission member Saya Chai, a Muslim, said Myanmar-Muslims include Muslims from the national races and those who became citizens in 1948 under the Citizenship Law. They do not include Muslims who are not citizens of Myanmar. "He pointed out that all Myanmar-Muslims are duty-bound to inherit the patriotism and zeal shown by their forefathers towards the State." He denounced British colonialist efforts to divide and rule through religion, and "malicious rumours broadcast by the BBC and spread by some foreign publications with ulterior motives...to make it appear as if the Government and the Tatmadaw were persecuting Myanmar-Muslims in the country...to make the Islamic Nations of the world have wrong opinion of the Myanmar Government...." (WPD 3/5) Mar. 15: The 47-member plenary meeting of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee "discussed the question of `whether the Buddha is an ordinary human being or not,'" and concluded that he is not. It resolved that: "(1) Though Lord Buddha belonged to the human race He was not an ordinary one.... He is unmatched and incomparable." "(2) ...one who belittles or speaks ill of the Buddha amounts to committing an offense; with the accumulation of demerits he could fall into four nether regions. If the one who commits such an offence is a Buddhist, he will cease being a Buddhist." "(3) If one reveres and respects the Buddha there will be accumulation of merits, which could bring great benefits up to the extent that the gates to the nether regions will be closed to him." Lengthy resolutions, of which these are the summaries, were passed concerning the attributes of Lord Buddha [text printed in WPD]. Specifically, the Committee concluded that "Buddha is not an ordinary human being," and that "Concerning saying or writing so as to disparage the Buddha just as the moth unwittingly dashes toward the fire to its own destruction, so also one who, with mind intent on belittling, disparages the Buddha accumulates demerit and is liable to face only the miserable states, three catastrophies, the four handicapped conditions, the five enemies, the four deficiencies and five losses. If a Buddhist, with malicious mind, speaks or writes so as to belittle the Buddha he or she is no longer a bona fide Buddhist and becomes one outside the Buddha's Teachings."(WPD 3/16-17) Higher Education Mar. 6: 751 faculty members left for the Central Institute of Public Services to attend the No. 2 Refresher Course for faculty members. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 7: Over 2,000 university teachers will attend the special refresher course. (WPD 3/8) Mar. 8: The four-week Course opened. It is being attended by 2,091 trainees (1 associate professor, 298 lecturers, 572 assistant lecturers, and 1,220 tutors). The opening session was addressed at length [full text in WPD] by State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who said, inter alia, that: "The politicians who joined the band-wagon, hypocritic politicians and opportunists, aboveground and underground destructionists and some diplomats...made use of the University campus as their basic ground to begin the disturbances.... Therefore, in order that the university campus and students may not be made use of as the scapegoats of the disturbances, the faculty members in co-operation with the authorities concerned are to make concerted efforts to prevent this. If a problem arises, you must make use of the administrative system and control the situation through disciplinary action so that the problem will not grow and spread.... This course is being conducted to guarantee peaceful pursuit of education to students ...[and] to reinvigorate and refresh the abilities and qualifications of the teachers and polish them up." (WPD 3/10) Mar. 11: State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt held a co-ordination meeting with Rectors, Principals, and Professors of Universities and Colleges, "to discuss and present constructive suggestions which would assist in the reopening of universities and colleges and enable peaceful pursuit of education to be stable in the long run." Later he expressed satisfaction with the suggestions given by the Sayagyis. (WPD 3/12) News Course Given Mar. 11: Deputy Minister for Information U Soe Nyunt addressed the opening of On-Job Training Course No. 1/92 on Promotion of Proficiency of the News and Perdiodicals Enterprise Staff. "He laid emphasis on translation work...for enabling the public to [know]...events and situations at various parts of the world and for relating the objective situations of the country to the world nations at a time when there were false accusations and unsubstantiated news reports and broadcasts against the country, interfering in its internal affairs." (WPD 3/12) Cartoon Prizes Mar. 12: State LORC Secretary (1) Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt presented prizes to the winners of the cartoon contest sponsored by the News and Periodicals Group of the Educational and Agitation Committee for Keeping Patriotism Alive and Dynamic. "He pointed out that cartoonists of olden days...criticized and satired the politicians who were ready to sell off their country and vied with one another to obtain power to be given by the imperialists.... The principles for selecting the winners were based on keeping patriotism alive and dynamic; looking forward to ensuring national solidarity; building good character; contributing towards the causes of perpetuity of national sovereignty; prevalence of peace and tranquillity and nation-building tasks; and invigorating traditional culture and cultivating in the minds of people the spirit to preserve traditional heritage." (WPD 3/13) University Convocations Mar. 14: Yangon University held its 57th convocation. The Pro-Rector gave degree certificates to 2,931 graduates. (WPD 3/15) Mar. 21: The University for the Development of National Races held its 1st Convocation on Mar. 20. Chairman of the University Council of UDNR Commander Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min delivered the address, and conferred B.Ed. degrees on 19 graduates. On Mar. 19, Chairman of the UDNR Central Management Committee Chairman of the Public Services Selection and Training Board U Maung Maung Gyi gave a dinner for the graduates. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 25: The State School of Fine Arts (Yangon) held its graduation ceremony. Director-General of Fine Arts Department U Tin Htoo and Principal U Soe Tint gave certificates to 18 trainees. (WPD 3/26) Encyclopedia Myanmarnica Mar. 21: The Sarpay Beikman Board will distribute the Concise Encyclopedia Myanmarnica for 1992. The 320 page, hard-cover volume, with over 200 colour photographs, will cost K75 beginning Mar. 23. [photo] (WPD 3/22) Relics Mar. 23: Two "ancient iron seals which bear religious titles" were presented on Mar. 3 to the Bagan Archaeological Museum by Presiding Sayadaw U Saddhamapala of Shin Gotamapaya Kyaung, Maha Hgnetpyittaung Kyaungtaik, Nyaung-U. One had been presented to the monastery by King Sinbyushin and the other by Sagaing King of the Konbaung Dynasty. They are two of four seals given by ancient Myanmar kings. [photo] (WPD 3/ 24) MISCELLANEOUS Crime News Names and addresses of culprits generally included. Crime, date, and locality are included in our summaries, but not individual names unless for special reason. Feb. 29: Nine thieves who stole 186 bags of pesinngon from a train in Yangon on June 8 were arrested between Jan. 23-27. 177 bags were recovered. (WPD 3/1) Mar. 21: The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Feb. 13 seized 3.2 viss of jadeite in North West Mandalay. Yangon police on Feb. 18 seized a bicycle thief in Hlinethayar Twp. Ten stolen bicycles were recovered. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 22: "As the outbreaks of fire ...in Yangon...could also be the cause of of arson by a group of persons who cannot bear to see peace and tranquillity prevailing in the country" instructions have been given for a constant vigil. On Mar. 21 burning material, suspected of being an arsonist device [photo], was found on the roof of a house in Hline Twp. [Yangon]. It was extinguished. \\ Yangon police have uncovered 23 theft cases involving K470,000 of property. (WPD 3/23) Narcotics Crimes & Statistics Mar. 2: The Monywa [Sagaing] anti-drug squad seized 0.7 kilos of heroin. (WPD 3/3) Mar. 5: The Myitkyina anti-drug squad on Feb. 24 seized 0.8 kilos of heroin at Bhamo jetty. (WPD 3/6) Mar. 6: The Kale anti-drug squad on Feb. 17 seized 70 bottles of phensedyl at Gyothonbin village. (WPD 3/7) Mar. 7: The Myitkyina anti-drug squad on Feb. 22 seized 67 bottles of phensedyl from a bullock-cart west of Hopin. (WPD 3/9) Mar. 14: The Kalay anti-drug squad on Feb. 20 seized 4.1 kilos of raw opium from a car coming from Chin State. (WPD 3/15) Mar. 20: The Lashio anti-drug squad on Mar. 7 seized 4.9 kilos of heroin in Hopaik Village. The Homalin anti-drug squad seized 500 bottles of phensedyl from a powerboat enroute from Homalin to Nandaw village. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 21: The Yangon anti-drug squad on Mar. 16 seized 11.4 kilos of marijuana and arrested five persons. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 22: The Kale anti-drug squad on Mar. 9 seized 183 bottles of phensedyl in Pyidawtha village. (WPD 3/23) Mar. 23: The Lashio anti-drug squad on Mar. 1 seized 0.8 kilos of heroin from "two suspicious-looking persons." (WPD 3/24) Mar. 27: A Tatmadaw column on Mar. 8 seized 17.5 kilos of "ownerless" heroin at Lwe-ma-tone village, Mongping Twp. [Shan]. The Kengtung anti-drug squad on Feb. 23 seized 3.4 kilos of raw opium near Wannaung village. Mandalay police on Feb. 27 and Mar. 6. seized a total of 0.9 kilos of heroin. (WPD 3/28) Anti-Narcotics Activities Mar. 12: The Tatmadaw destroyed 207.5 acres of SUA terrorist poppy plantations in Tangyan Twp., 54.8 acres in Kunlong and Hsenwi Twps., and 8 acres in Muse Twp. [Shan]. (WPD 3/13) Mar. 11: Since Jan. 1991, 1,500 acres of poppy plantations have been destroyed in the Kokang region of Northern Shan State. In 1992, the second year of the eradication project, arrangements have been made to destroy 2,550 acres in 18 villages in the Maishapa, Laukkai, and Yanlukyaing area; however, only 524.25 acres were put under poppy cultivation this year, since other crops are being cultivated in 10 of the 18 villages. So only 523.25 acres [breakdown provided] were destroyed. The State supplied 5 bags of rice and 5 viss of salt to each of the 276 households whose poppy plantations were destroyed. In the Wa region, plans are to destroy 3,286 acres of poppy plantations; so far 1,290 acres [breakdown] have been destroyed. 569 households received the distribution of rice and salt. (WPD 3/14) Mar. 23: A co-ordination meeting was held between UN Agencies and the CCDAC to discuss "projects to be implemented under sub-regional co-operation between between Myanmar/ Thai, Myanmar/China and the UNDCP. Present were UNDCP Adviser Mr. C.F. Massey, Ms. Monima S. Magallanes from UNDP, Dr. Laroche and Mr. Krishna Tewari from UNICEF, and Myanmar officials. (WPD 3/24) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are occasional obituaries in Burmese as well.] Feb. 28: U Dawood Jamal, Director, D.J. International Co., Ltd., husband of Kathleen Jamal, died in Yangon, aged 51. [Muslim] (WPD 3/1) no date given: Daw Khin Ma Lay (May), wife of U Hla Soe, Director, Thiri Sandar Co. Ltd. [condolences] (WPD 3/2) Mar. 8: U Saw Roy D Ba E, 1st Admin. Officer (Rtd), Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, died in Yangon, aged 64. [Christian] (WPD 3/10) Mar. 9: Mr. Puran Dutt Rai, son of Lila Dhar of Taunggyi, died in Yangon, aged 52. (WPD 3/10) Mar. 9: Maung Min Than Kyaw, 3rd year M.B.B.S. IM 1, son of Dr. Aung Kyaw, Neuro Surgeon, and Dr. Daw Khin Than Tin, Obstetrician, died in Yangon, aged 22. (WPD 3/10) Mar. 10: Yangon Myo Thant (U Myo Nyunt), Writer, 1968 National Literary Prize Winner, Foreign Correspondent, husband of Daw Hla Myint, died in Yangon, aged 64. (WPD 3/11) Mar. 10: Mrs. Mabel Abraham (nee D'Silva), wife of the late Mr. Alec Abraham, died in Yangon, aged 78. [Christian] (WPD 3/11) Mar. 13: Dr. A.K. Chowdhury, Ex-Medical Officer, State Timber Board, Ahlon, and proprietor of the U Ottama Pharmacy at 356 Shwebontha St., Yangon, died in Calcutta, aged 82. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 16: Amy Cecilia Lobo (Daw Amy), nee Wallnut, wife of U Thein Han (Jimmy Lobo), died in Yangon [no age given]. [Catholic] (WPD 3/17) Mar. 18: Daw Mya Mya Tin (Al Hajjah Assia), died in Dubai, U.A.E., aged 66 [most of text in Burmese]. [Muslim] (WPD 3/19) Mar. 18: Thiripyanchi U Tun Kyaw, M.A. (Oxon), Kadoe-Kawhnat, Conservator of Forests (Retd), Professor of Forestry (Retd), R.A.S.U., husband of Daw Saw Yin (Kawhnat), died in Yangon, aged 81. (WPD 3/19) Mar. 21: Lt-Cmdr. Soe Hlaing (retd), Director (Admin) Myanma Petro-Chemical Enterprise, husband of Daw Khin Kyaw Kyaw, died in Yangon, aged 57. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 24: Bhaddanta Tejalankara, Vassa 73, Padana Nayaka Sayadaw of the Tezasekki Medititation Centre, Yangon, died, aged 92. (WPD 3/25) Mar. 29: Sayadaw Bhaddanta Cintita-bhivamsa, Vassa 66, Ovadacariya of Sattamavacaka Kyaung, Yadanabon Taik, Mandalay SW Twp., died in Mandalay, aged 86. (WPD 3/30) Mar. 29: U Than Win (Oscar Strentz), Kandawgyi Hotel, husband of Dr. Tin Tin Hla (Myanma Railways, Rtd.), died in Yangon, aged 58. (WPD 3/30) Fires Mar. 2: A fire in Hline Twp. [Yangon] destroyed four houses, leaving 34 people homeless and causing damage of K50,000. (WPD 3/3) Mar. 19: A fire in Nya Ward, North Okkalapa Twp. [Yangon] destroyed 2,000 houses and left 20,000 persons homeless. (WPD 3/20) Mar. 20: Another fire in Nya Ward, North Okkalapa Twp. [Yangon] destroyed 900 houses, and left 5,000 people from 3,000 households homeless. Investigations are under way to "determine the value of property loss and casualties" in the two fires. (WPD 3/21) Mar. 21: Deputy Minister for Education Col. Kyi Maung inspected two burnt-out primary and one middle school in North Okkalapa. (WPD 3/22) Mar. 22: A fire in Shwephyitha Myothit [Yangon] destroyed 10 houses and made 51 persons from 8 households homeless. (WPD 3/23) Birthday Mar. 4: 91st BIRTHDAY WISHES. Daw Khin Lay (Mrs. Po Sa). Your love keeps us all together in a Special Way and more so at 91 we say. Happy Birthday and Wish You More Encores ... From all loved ones of the Winville clan. (WPD 3/4) Ship/Shore Telephone Mar. 13: Effective March 16, telephone calls can be made between Myanmar and ships cruising in Myanmar waters between 6 am and 6 pm. Those aboard ships, who must pay in foreign currency, may radio telephone to the marine radio communications centre Yangon Radio XYR at Pyintaungkyaung, Thanlyin; telephone users in Myanmar may pay in kyats, and will book calls through Yangon Radio by calling 109. For more information, contact the International Communications Centre Chief Engineer or telephone number 65333. (WPD 3/ 14) Yangon Pepsi King and Queen Mar. 25: "Soe Than (Yangon Division) was selected `Pepsi King' and Ma Aye Aye Naing won the `Pepsi Queen' title at the `Pepsi Cola' Physical Culture and Beauty contests held today at the National Indoor Stadeum 1 in Thuwunna. The contests were held in commemoration of the 47th Armed Forces Day. Other winners were San Si Aye (Navy) second, and Tin Zaw Myat (Yangon Division) third in the Physical Culture contest and Ma Hla Su Kyaw (Yangon Division) second and Ma Hlaing Hteik Hta Khin (Botahtaung) third in the Beauty contest respectively." (WPD 3/26) Earthquake Reports Mar. 24: An earthquake of slight intensity (4.0 Richter) was recorded at 05:05:38 hours local time, with epicenter about 50 miles South of Homalin. (WPD 3/27) Mar. 27: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.2 Richter) was recorded at 06:26:56 hours local time, with epicenter about 30 miles SW of Nyaung Oo. (WPD 3/28) Mar. 28: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.0 Richter) was recorded at 09:22:34 hours local time, with epicenter about 70 miles NE of Kengtung. (WPD 3/29) ----- 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. 61, Mar. 1992Hugh C. MacDougall