92-06 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY (from THE WORKING PEOPLE'S DAILY) Vol. VI, No. 6, June 1992 +-+-+-+-+ Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans 2 Cartoons 2 Political Articles 3 Press Conference 3 Myanmar-Bangladesh Border 4 152 Political Prisoners Released 5 NATIONAL CONVENTION Co-ordination Meeting Opens 5 Maj-Gen. Kyin Nyunt's Speech 6 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 10 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 10 New Myanmar Ambassadors 10 Diplomatic Narcotics Tour 10 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops 11 Foreign Donations 11 Rio Environmental Conference 11 Colombo Plan Conference 14 Drug Control Agreement 14 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 15 Chinese Delegation 15 Vatican Representative 15 BBC Corrspondent 15 Sri Lankan Minister 16 Georgetown Professor 16 Thai Co-operation Delegation 16 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 16 ILO Annual Conference 16 Delegations to Meetings & Events 18 Delegations Return 18 MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 18 Appointments Confirmed 18 Transfers 19 GOVERNMENT Savings Banks Law 19 Statement on Narcotics 19 MILITARY Tatmadaw Actions 20 Insurgent Attacks 20 Insurgents Surrender 20 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 20 Construction & Other Projects 21 Basic Commodities 22 Tourism 22 Banking 22 Commerce and Trade 22 Population Policy 23 Taxes 23 Transportation 23 Joint Ventures 24 Agriculture 25 Mid-year Gems Emporium 25 Rainfall in Yangon 25 HEALTH Traditional Medicine 25 Health Statistics 25 SPORTS Sports Articles 26 Myanmar Teams & Delegations 26 Hole-in-One 27 Soccer Ban Lifted 27 Olympic Athletes Honored 27 CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles 27 Book Advertised 27 School Activities and Statistics 27 Religious Affairs 28 Higher Education 28 Museums and Folk Art 28 Literary Winners Named 29 Books Donated to IPRD Library 29 English-language TV 29 MISCELLANEOUS Crime News 29 Anti-Narcotics Activities 30 Obituaries 31 Toad Swallows Snake 32 Rakhine Storm Damage 32 Unlawful Construction Banned 32 Earthquake 32 Falam Centenary 32 Traffic Accidents 32 PICTURES 34 -- POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans 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: June 1-10: Phutthassa lokadhammehi, cittam yassa na kampati, the mind which is touched by the eight vicissitudes of life does not move; this is the way to auspiciousness. June 11-29: Asokam, be free from anxiety; this is the way to auspiciousness. June 30: Virajam, be stainlessly pure; this is the way to auspiciousness. Cartoons Examples of the frequent political cartoons: June 2: Editorial: Our cartoonists. ["The increasing number and variety of cartoons appearing in the newspapers is matched only by the increasing popularity of these creations among the readers. But even then the number of cartoons which eventually find their way into the pages is nothing compared to the enormous number which are submitted .... It is thanks to the [SLORC] that the cartoonists and aspiring cartoonists have now been given an opportunity to have their works featured in the newspapers. The remuneration granted too, has been made sufficient to make it worth their while...."] June 1: Sailor to mother: "On board, the captain and I are the most important persons, Ma. He masters the entire ship and I scrub the entire deck." June 1: "Office." Boss: "Why do you come late in the morning?" Worker: "Because buses are crowded, Sir." Boss: "Why do you go home earlier in the afternoon?" Worker: "Because I'd like to avoid the rush, Sir." June 5: Wife to husband: "When I go to hospital, I have to smile at the doctor, but at his own private clinic it is he who smiles at me!" June 5: Man to hippie: "Let me ask. Are you man or woman?" June 6: One man to another: "I've saved a lot for household budget by giving up tea, cigarettes and `pahn'." June 6: First Myanmar: "How do you see your environment?" Second Myanmar (being doused with a slops pail from an upper storey): "At present, I see nothing." June 7: First Myanmar: "He is young, good looking and eloquent talker. And he can sing." Second Myanmar: "He can surely become...a video star?" First Myanmar: "No, he can become a tuition teacher. Hehehe!" June 9: First Myanmar (looking at two hippies): "Are they sisters or brothers?" Second Myanmar: "One's the brother and the other's the sister." June 10: First Myanmar: "Cost of tea has risen exorbitantly." Second Myanmar: "Where?" First Myanmar: "You said yourself you paid 200 kyats `tea-money' at that office!" June 10: Myanmar: "What's the title of your painting?" Artist (looking at solid black picture): "The night when I ran out of candle-money." June 11: Man to hippy: "You're quite internationally fashionable except for your appalling performance! That's for real!" June 12: Man to hippy: "What's left on your body that you could call Myanmar?" Hippy: "Oh, I've still got my name left." June 13: Wife to husband: "Your son has his eyes on our house... he's trying to get money so that he could go and get a shore job." June 14: Question: "Who is more corrupt...the rich or the poor?" Answer: "Loose character and indiscipline corrupt both equally." June 14: Customer at "enquiry" desk: "It is said that when there is no satisfaction, one can meet manager..." Clerk: "It's rather difficult to meet manager as he attends meetings daily." June 15: "Public" taken aback by "ticket blackmarketeers" and "Queue space sellers" who are holding a sign reading "Film for the benefit of the people {struck out} of us." June 15: At "Ear-boring service." Proprietress: "Where's the girl who came here for ear-boring?" Trousered young man: "It's not a girl. It's me." June 16: One Myanmar to another: "Yes, rich man's son is working as garbage-collector. But not here... Abroad!" June 16: One office girl to another: "I couldn't finish knitting the sweater at home. So, I did it at the office." June 17: Man to woman struck in the street by a soccer ball: "Not strange! They won't apologize... Such indisciplined street footballers are, of course, rude enough." June 17: Daughter to mother: "Mum, my lover said he is ice-water seller downtown. I'll consent to marry him." June 18: Hippie: "My spectacles worth K 1,000; my watch K 2,000; my shirt K 3,000; trousers K 4,000; and shoes K 5,000." Myanmar: "And what about you? What's your worth?" June 18: Woman to mother: "What class is your child in for you to be looking for the best tuition?" Mother: "Kindergarten." June 19: Doctor in hospital: "You must buy medicine for patient. Also buy blood, glucose, bandage, cotton wool and blood transfusion pipe." Relative of patient: "What about a doctor? Must I buy one too?" June 19: "Old-time merchant": "This costs me K 10. I'll sell it for 50 pyas profit." "Present-day merchant": This costs me K 10. I'll sell it for K 50 profit." June 20: Man in hospital waiting line: "People's condition deteriorate [sic] as they get older...that's health!" June 21: 1st Man: "How come you've greyed all of a sudden?" 2nd Man: "Well, I have to go to the market these days." June 29: Father: "Son, what will you do when you grow up?" Son: "I want to be a doctor." Father: "Will you go wherever assigned if you become one?" Son: "That I must ponder carefully." 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: June 1: Toward unitedly writing a flaw-free Constitution, by Shwe La Win. ["There is unity of purpose--that of producing a national charter. There is to be unity of action by the people, the Tatmadaw and the political parties in producing the kind of charter that will ensure national solidarity...."] June 3: Environment and Myanmar, by Maung Thar Nar. ["Myanmar has made dedicated efforts to further the cause of environment...." The National Commission for Environmental Affairs (NCEA) was established in Feb. 1990, and has established Commitees on Natural Resources, Control of Pollution, Research, Information and Education, and International Cooperation. An Office was established in April 1992.] June 7-8: To Hell and Back, by Thura Thamein. [(1) Blood and gore were the only dose of `democracy' student hopefuls experienced at ABSDF (North). Account of tortures suffered by the returned ABSDF students. (2) For fear of arrest for what they had done, fugitives ran into the arms of the lawless at ABSDF (North). Continued account.] June 14-19: Better if there were no `ABSDF', by Duwun Kyai. [Graphic descriptions of torture and mistreatment of students in the ABSDF camp.] Press Conference June 3: Some of the 54 youths who fled from the ABSDF (North) terrorist group testified at a press conference attended by Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant and other officials and press representatives. Foreign press representatives present were Mr. Roger Hearing of BBC, and Mr. Peter W. Jenssen of the Deutsche Press Agency of Germany and Asian Business Magazine of Hong Kong. Deputy Director of Defence Services Intelligence Col. Than Tun said that since Sept. 1991 there had been "problems and power struggles" in the ABSDF (North) terrorist group, and "youths started to make false accusations against each other, make arrests and imprison them, then began to torture them inhumanly, hear their cases and execute them." The [Bangkok] Nation on Mar. 1, 1992 reported that 80 youths had been arrested "in connection with the Tatmadaw." Of these, fifteen, including ABSDF (North) Chairman Tun Aung Kyaw were executed after being accused of working for Tatmadaw intelligence. Of these arrested, 55 escaped from the Pajao camp on May 21; six "returned to the legal fold" at Muse on May 23, and 48 at the Lweje Camp in Momauk on May 26. One, who had been tortured, died on the way. It is learned from these youths that "32 youths were killed by other students like themselves," including Maung Maung Kywe, adopted son of AFPFL(HQ) General Secretary Daw Cho Cho Kyaw Nyein. Toe Kyi, Naing Win Aung, and Ohn Kyaing told their stories [at length], including accounts of torture under suspicion of being military intelligence agents, and showed their scars. In response to journalists' questions, they said that the ABSDF has four battalions strength of "just over 200." They thanked the Tatmadaw and Government for the kind treatment accorded them, said they realized the error of their ways, and called on other students "left behind in the jungle," to join them in returning home. A video titled Lu-nay-hmu sanit ei thargaung ("Victims of evil social system"), produced by the ABSDF and showing the interrogation of students suspected of collaboration with the Tatmadaw, was shown. [photos] (WPD 6/4-5) Myanmar-Bangladesh Border June 5: An 8-member Myanmar delegation headed by Director U Aung Sein of the Immigration and Manpower Department met with a 12-member Bangladesh delegation headed by Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner Mr. K.H. Shahidul Islam, at Teknaf in Cox's Bazaar District, Bangladesh, to co-ordinate "matters relating to sending back those who crossed over to Bangladesh...." The Myanmar side delivered a "table chart showing lists of Myanmar names of wards/villages which have been compiled townshipwise and the names of relief goods to be kept at the reception camps." Difficulties were "encountered on both sides in carrying out their activities." After discussion, "it was agreed...that steps must be taken to send back 9,000 persons who are in the first and second lists already sent as well as measures to be taken for compiling the remaining lists systematically." (WPD 6/6) June 9: Director-General U Maung Aung of the Immigration and Manpower Department, accompanied by Director U Tint De of the Foreign Ministry Political Department, and by BBC Correspondent Roger Hearing, inspected the reception camps for returnees. In the evening U Maung Aung led a delegation that met with a Bangladesh delegation headed by Chittagong Commissioner Mr. Omar Farooq at Mayyu Yeiktha in Maungdaw to discuss "matters relating to accepting those who fled to the other country and the prevention of further illegal crossings along the border in the future." (WPD 6/10) June 13: Director of Immigration and Manpower U Aung Sein on June 5-6 inspected the Ngakhuya and Taungpyo Letwe reception camps "where the returnees from Bangladesh would be accepted under an accord between Myanmar and Bangladesh leaders." (WPD 6/ 14) June 26: Director U Aung Sein on June 11 inspected supplies of relief goods stocked in Maungdaw. The goods, stored at Thirimingala Hall, include 1,000 bags of rice, 2,434 viss of cooking oil, 2,250 viss of salt, 2,000 viss of chili, 2,435 viss of pe, 8,934 cooking pots, 500 longyis and 500 htamis, 45 bags of lime, 24 reels of tarpaulin, five fish storing tanks and one generator. Goods sent to Taungbyo (Letwe), Ngakhuya, Pyinphyu, Kanyinchaung, and Magyichaung Reception Camps include 1,684 viss of cooking oil, 1,960 bags of rice, 1,464 viss of chili, 2,287 viss of pe, 1,080 viss of salt, and 3,572 cooking pots. (WPD 6/27). 152 Political Prisoners Released June 2: Nineteen more prisoners were released under SLORC Declaration 11/92: National League for Democracy members U Khin Maung Thein and U Tha Saing, detained Apr. 1991, and "fifteen men and one woman against whom action was taken under the existing laws and who were serving sentences," were released from Insein Central Jail. CEC member U Zaw Pe Win of the Burma United Democratic Party, detained Mar. 1990, was released from Thayet jail. (WPD 6/3) June 4: Fourteen more prisoners were released: National League for Democracy members U Myint Kyi and U Thaung Myint, detained Apr. 1991, and "twelve men...serving sentences," were released from Insein Central Jail. (WPD 6/5) June 9: Twelve more prisoners were released: "twelve men...serving sentences," were released from Insein Central Jail. (WPD 6/10) June 11: Fifteen more prisoners were released: "Altogether 15 men... who had been serving sentences," were released from Insein Central Jail. (WPD 6/12) June 29: 92 more prisoners were released: U Aung San Myint and U Chit Tun of the National League for Democracy, detained April 1991, U Tun Kyaing of the NLD, detained Nov. 1991, and Ko Wa (a) Ye Naing Aung, General Secretary of the Youth Unity Front, detained Dec. 1991, were released from Insein Central Jail. "Similarly, other 88 men and women ...who have been serving their sentences...." were released from Myitkyina, Katha, Shwebo, Monywa, and Mandalay jails. (WPD 6/30) NATIONAL CONVENTION Co-ordination Meeting Opens June 23: The Co-ordination Meeting for the Convening of the National Convention opened athe Meeting Hall on the premises of the President's Residence, Alon Road. Present were the Chairman of the Steering Committee Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt and the Steering Committee members [names listed last month] and the following party representatives: National League for Democracy [NLD]: Leader U Aung Shwe (Mayangonn-1); Deputy Leader U Lwin (Thongwa-1); members U Nyunt Wai (Toungoo-2), U Than Tun (Taungha-2), U Lun Tin (Mawlamyine-1), U Hla Pe (Mawlamyinegyunn-1), U Saw Oo Reh (Phruhso), U Kyaw Tun (Paletwa-1), U Saw Aung (Monywa-2), U Hla Min (Kawthoung), Dr. U Nyunt Sein (Chauk-2), U Tun Yi (Thandwe), Duwa U Zaw Aung (Waingmaw), Daw Nan Kyin Htwe Myint (Hpa-an-3), and U Sai Ri Tip (Kengtung-2). Shan Nationalities League for Democracy [SNLD]: Leader U Hkun Tun Oo (Hsipaw-1); Deputy Leader U Sai Hpa (Kyaukme-1); members U Sai Tha Aye (Namkham), U Sai Moe Kyi (Mongpan), U Sai Hsaung Hsi (Kyaukme-2), and U Sai Tun Aung (Langkho). National Unity Party [NUP]: Leader U M Sin Sar (Nogmun); Deputy Leader U Maung Ohn (Pyay-1); member U Thet Wai (Wakema-2). Union Paoh National Organization [UPNO]: U San Hla (Hopong). Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization [MKNSO]: U San Tha Aung (Kyauktaw-2). Shan State Kokang Democratic Party [SSKDP]: U Yan Kyin Maw (Kunglong). Lahu National Development Party [LNDP]: U Daniel Aung (Mongping). Independent [Ind.]: Dr. Hmu Htan (Thangtlan). Following a speech by Chairman Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt, he and Master of Ceremonies Col. Aung Thein replied to "points" raised by U Hkun Tun Oo (SNLD), U Aung Shwe (NLD), and U Yan Kyin Maw (SSKDP). The Co-ordination Meeting will resume on June 30. [extensive photos] (WPD 6/24) June 26: A Documentary Film, Co-ordination Meeting for Convening of the National Convention, will be shown at the Nawadei, Thamada, Shesaung, Tabinshwehti, and Bayintnaung cinemas [in Yangon] beginning June 26. (WPD 6/27) Maj-Gen. Kyin Nyunt's Speech June 23: At the opening of the Co-ordination Meeting for the Convening of the National Convention, Steering Committee Chairman Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt said [text]: First of all, I wish to greet all of you participating in this Co-ordination Meeting for the Convening of the National Convention wishing you both physical well-being and happiness. As you are all aware, the State Law and Order Restoration Council assumed the duties of State on 18 September 1988 to ensure the non-disintegration of the Union, the non-disintegration of national solidarity and for perpetuation of sovereignty in the aftermath of the 1988 disturbances which brought general deterioration of the situation all over the country. In assuming these duties, the State Law and Order Restoration Council took up the Four Main Tasks of ensuring law and order and peace and tranquillity, smooth and safe transportation, adequacy of public livelihood and holding of multiparty democracy general election in the interest of the State and the people. In keeping with such resolution the State Law and Order Restoration Council had dismantled the single-party system and had endeavoured for smooth transition to multiparty democracy system through endeavours for restoration of law and order and peace and tranquillity. Moreover, the State Law and Order Restoration Council went into necessary legislation for the successful holding of the multi-party democracy general election. The Multiparty Democracy General Election Commission Law was passed on 21 September 1988, and it was entrusted with the holding of the election as per Paragraph 2 of Declaration 1/88 of 18 September 1988. The Political Parties Registration Law was passed on 27 September 1988 and formation and registration of political parties was allowed according to law to facilitate their extensive contest in the multiparty democracy general election. Then, on 31 March 1989, the Pyithu Hluttaw Election Law was passed. Necessary arrangements were made in the short time and successful holding of the free and fair multiparty democracy general election was held on 27 May 1990. Based on the prevailing situation in the country, and with a view to ensuring non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty, the organization assigned by the State Law and Order Restoration Council on 11 July 1990 informed elected leaders of parties which had won the Multiparty Democracy General Election and independent elected Representatives of plans to hold a meeting, prior to which they would have to go through formalities required under the Multiparty Democracy Election Law. Thereafter, the State Law and Order Restoration Council published Declaration 1/90 on 27 July 1990, in which its view concerning the writing of a firm Constitution and future plans were made known to the nation. It was stated in Declaration 1/90 that it is understood through perusal of their declarations that the majority of the political parties which contested the elections desire writing a new Constitution, that in writing the 1947 Constitution co-ordination was made with the national races through the discussion at the Panglong Conference, and that it is necessary to write and pass a firm Constitution after ascertaining the wishes of the national races residing throughout Myanmar Naing-Ngan, and that under prevailing conditions, Representatives elected by the people are persons responsible for writing the Constitution of the future democratic State. Moreover, it is stated in brief in Declaration 1/90 that the writing of a provisional Constitution and formation of a government would not under any circumstances be accepted, that in the period before a government is formed in keeping with provisions of a firm, new Constitution written in accordance with the wishes and aspirations of the people, the State Law and Order Restoration Council would specifically safeguard-- (1) The Three Main National Causes, which are non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty; (2) The Three Tasks of maintaining peace and tranquillity, assuring safe and smooth transportation and improving the livelihood of the people, and (3) the task of development of the national races of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. The State Law and Order Restoration Council has been undertaking to date, with unhindered tempo, the plans laid down in keeping with the views expressed in Declaration 1/90. The State Law and Order Restoration Council, in connection with Declaration 1/90, published on 24 April 1992 Declaration 11/92. In it, the State Law and Order Restoration Council said that leaders of the elected Representatives of legally existing political parties and independently elected Representatives would be meeting and co-ordinating within two months, and that after such co-ordination a National Convention would be held within six months to lay down the guidelines for writing a firm Constitution. The State Law and Order Restoration Council, in keeping with the requirements of Declaration 11/92 published Notification No 35/92 on 28 May 1992 forming a 15-member Steering Committee for Holding Co-ordination Meeting for the Convening of the National Convention with myself as Chairman, and duly assigned duties. The same day, State Law and Order Restoration Council Order No 9/92 was published saying the Co-ordination Meeting would be held today, 23 June 1992, in the Meeting Hall on the premises of the President's Residence, Alon Road, Yangon. In it the number of leaders of Representatives of political parties existing lawfully was stipulated, and that the main objective is for convening the National Convention with those stipulations. We, members of the Steering Committee and leaders of the elected Representatives of political parties existing lawfully and elected independent Representatives are assembled here today for due co-ordination for the convening of a National Convention with a view to seeing to the coming into being of a multiparty democracy system in this country. In other words, the Co-ordination Meeting which commences today is meant to open the door towards measures to be taken for convening a National Convention to lay down basic principles for the purpose of framing a firm Constitution essential for the emergence of a multiparty democracy system within the nation. The national significance of Declaration No 1/90 is the procurement of the aspirations and desires of the national peoples so that a firm and strong Constitution may be brought into being. The main method of ascertaining the desires and aspirations of the national peoples is through the mechanism of a National Convention. The peasantry, the workers, the political parties and organizations, the intelligentsia and technocrats and public servants are also included in the expression "national peoples" from whom the desires and aspirations are to be procured at a National Convention so that the fundamental principles required for the framing of a strong and firm Constitution may be laid down. The Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, the Vice-Chairman, the Secretaries and members of the Cabinet in their frequent journeys to inspect progress of work being carried out in all parts of the country have had occasion to talk to Tatmadawmen, Government servants and regional peoples. In such talks the essentiality of the emergence of a strong and firm Constitution as one of the future tasks confronting the Myanmar Naing-Ngan had been emphasized; furthermore, what has also been frequently stressed is the importance of holding a National Convention so that such a Constitution may be drawn up. Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council General Than Shwe went on an inspection tour of Tanintharyi Division from 5 to 6 March 1991. In addressing the Tatmadawmen, Government servants and the regional peoples during that inspection tour, the Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council emphasized the necessity of drawing up a strong and firm Constitution; stressed the need for holding a National Convention to procure ideas and aspirations; underscored the fact that firm guarantees for a democratic State would be incorporated in the Constitution to be drawn up; explained the expediency of those Represented at the Election to clear up all pending matters in accordance with the Pyithu Hluttaw Election Law; and that after everything had been settled, a National Convention would be called and all measures required for the framing of the Constitution would be carried out; and furthermore, he declared that this nation was not inhabited only by one race, that it was a nation inhabited by many races; this being the case, he stressed the Constitution must be acceptable to all the national peoples. Thus, what must be drawn up is a strong and firm Constitution which would be acceptable to the national peoples. He emphasized in unequivocal terms that what was essential was the emergence of a Constitution that can ensure stable administration of the nation. This being so, leaders of elected Representatives representing the political parties as well as elected independent Representatives are invited to discuss and forward suggestions conducive to the holding a National Convention at this present co-ordination meeting. To put it more clearly, suggestions are to be submitted at this co-ordination meeting as to who should attend the National Convention and also the number of those who should attend. In other words, such points as the number of those who ought to be invited to participate in the National Convention from among the political parties; elected Representatives, members of the National peoples, members of the peasantry, workers, intelligentsia, technocrats, public servants should be submitted and discussed at this meeting. That is why this Co-ordination Meeting should be devoted solely within the ambit of Paragraph 3 of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Order No 9/92 dated 28 May 1992 which stipulates that the main objective of the Co-ordination Meeting is for the Convening of the National Convention. Destructive and disruptive elements inside and outside the country have been choosing to ignore the genuine goodwill of the State Law and Order Restoration Council in having issued Declaration No 11/92 and in proceeding to carry out the present arrangements and they have been surreptitiously twisting the truth of the matter and they have been spreading it around that all this is being done due to pressures from inside and outside the country and because it could not be avoided under the circumstances. It is very important for all those now attending the co-ordination meeting to understand and appreciate the genuine goodwill of the State Law and Order Restoration Council. The State Law and Order Restoration Council on its part will not be awed by any kind of threat from inside the country or from abroad. In truth; we declare that there is no cause whatsoever for any domestic or foreign organization to be able to exert any kind of authority or pressure upon the State Law and Order Restoration Council. This is because the State Law and Order Restoration Council is the Tatmadaw and as such, it possesses the inate nature of being totally dedicated body and soul to the well-being of the nation and its people. Its historic heritage in defending the welfare of the nation and its people is indeed great. As a totally dedicated patriotic organization, it is constantly devoting itself to promoting welfare and well-being of the nation and the people. In such endeavours too, the Tatmadaw strives to do so in accord with needs and conditions of the times. This being so, it would be improper for any organization, either domestic or foreign to attempt to exert any kind of authority or pressure upon it. In addition, I wish to reiterate that Declaration No 11/92 was not prompted by any kind of pressure, political or military, exerted upon the State Law and Order Restoration Council. Some time ago. Tatmadaw offensives within Kayin State were suspended--this is not due to any kind of political or military difficulties. It was prompted mainly as a genuine endeavour directed towards strengthening national solidarity and achieving national consolidation. It is very important to understand and appreciate this point. What the country urgently needs today is a strong and firm Constitution. The emergence of such a strong and firm Constitution is a national task. A National Convention is to be held so that the basic principles for framing such a Constitution may be established. Today's co-ordination meeting mauy be regarded as a first step towards the convening of a National Convention. After this Co-ordination Meeting has been concluded, a National Convention is to be held within six months. This has been openly declared to the entire country by the State Law and Order Restoration Council. Thus, I would like to remind you at this juncture to temper your discussions at this co-ordination meeting with the sole objective of being able to hold the National Convention within the stipulated period. What is before us today is to build national solidarity and for the political parties and organizations to work hand in hand and with confidence with the State Law and Order Restoration Council for the emergence of firm and strong Constitution. I believe that all elected Representatives representing the political parties at this meeting would appreciate the need to place priority on national welfare over and above that of their respective political parties. Hence, I urge all participants at this Co-ordination Meeting to place in the fore Our Three Main National Causes-- Non-disintegration of the Union. Non-disintegration of National Solidarity. Perpetuation of National sovereignty. In conclusion, I wish to impress upon all those present the importance of today upon the future of the nation and for national consolidation. It is upon the basis of national consolidation that the National Convention is to be held. It is at the National Convention that the fundamental principles for the framing of the Constitution are to be prescribed. Therefore, the writing of a Constitution which is essential for the State is the national duty of all citizens. The National Convention is to bring forth the wishes and aspirations of the people for the future Constitution of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. I would like you who are attending this Co-ordination Meeting today, to discuss and present views with due cognizance to the holding of a National Convention in the time stipulated by the State Law and Order Restoration Council Declaration No 11/92. As you would give due priority to party interest over personal interest I would like you to give priority to the national interest over party interest in your suggestions and discussions. With this I conclude. (WPD 6/24) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. June 2: Japanese Military Attache Col. Shusuke Kayanuma, and his replacement Col. Hiroshi Mamizuka, on SLORC Secretary No. 1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 6/3) June 3: Korean Ambassador Hang Kyung Kim on Minister for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (WPD 6/4) June 4: Bangladesh Ambassador Mostafa Faruque Mohammad on Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. Belgian Ambassador Xavier R. Van Migem on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel, and on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein [photo caption]. French Ambassador Alain Briottet on Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha [photo caption]. (WPD 6/5) June 5: Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Van Tiep on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Tin Tun to discuss aviation and "opening air links between Hochiminh City (Saigon) and Yangon." (WPD 6/6) June 15: Indonesian Ambassador Bernhard Paul Makadada on Minister for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (WPD 6/16) June 16: The Indonesian Ambassador on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on Chief Justice U Aung Toe. \\ British Ambassador J.D.N. Hartland Swann on Chairman U Ba Htay of the Election Commission. (WPD 6/17) June 17: The Indonesian Ambassador on Minister for Transport and for Labour Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, to discuss extension of Myanmar Airways flights to Bali, and on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 6/18) June 18: The Indonesian Ambassador on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Ye Kyaw. British Ambassador J.D.N. Hartland Swann on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 6/19) June 19: Malaysian Ambassador John Tenewi Nuek, and Laos Ambassador Kydeng Thammavong, on Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung. UNDP Resident Representative Gerd Merrem on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 6/20) June 23: Indonesian Ambassador Bernhard Paul Makadada on Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 6/24) June 24: Israeli Ambassador Ori Noy on Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung to discuss technical cooperation. (WPD 6/25) June 25: Indonesian Ambassador Bernhard Paul Makadada, who has completed his tour of duty in Myanmar, on Chairman of the SLORC General Than Shwe. June 26: Singapore Charge d'Affaires Lam Peck Heng on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (WPD 6/ 27) New Ambassadors to Myanmar June 3: Chairman of the SLORC General Than Shwe accepted the credentials of Mr. Xavier R. Van Migem as Belgian Ambassador to Myanmar. (WPD 6/4) June 18: Chairman of the SLORC General Than Shwe accepted the credentials of Mr. John Tenewi Neuk as Malaysian Ambassador to Myanmar. (WPD 6/19) New Myanmar Ambassadors June 18: U Saw Tun on June 16 presented his credentials in Wellington to Governor-General Dame Catherine Tizard as new Myanmar Ambassador to New Zealand. (WPD 6/19) June 29: U Kyaw Min, Permanent Representative to the United Nations, has been concurrently accredited as Myanmar Ambassador to Mexico. (WPD 6/29) Diplomatic Narcotics Tour June 6: While visiting the Wa Region to observe the destruction of narcotics [see below under Anti-Narcotics Activities] diplomats and military attaches were given the opportunity to question officials at North-East Command Headquarters in Lashio. In response to a question from the US Defence Attache about the military role in border development, Lt-Col. Kyaw Thein said "that engineers and doctors from the Tatmadaw were sent to work for the development activities of the border areas." Asked by the Australian Ambassador about "the agreements between the organizations of national races and the government," Director-General U Ba Thwin replied "that armed terrorist groups had returned to the legal fold and they joined hands with the Tatmadaw in successfully carrying out drug-abuse control." The Korean Ambassador was told that Korean-donated water pumps would be used "in cultivation in border areas and also for distribution of drinking water." The ˙Thai Ambassador was told "that cash crops were cultivated to replace opium cultivation." In response to a question by the Japanese Ambassador as to the sufficiency of the five sacks of rice and five viss of salt given to each farmer who gave up opium-growing, Lt-Col. Thein Han said "that those provisions were not for the whole-year consumption and that provisions were sent to those farmers if needed." Asked about the heroin situation, Lt-Col. Kyaw Thein told him "that all about the production of heroin in Myanmar could be known by reading Mc Coy's `Politics of Heroin in South-East Asia,' and that the opium refinery destroyed last year "was run by outside merchants." Other questions were answered, including those raised by First Secretary of US Embassy Mr. Douglas Wake and Australian Regional Attache Mr. Bernie Doyle. (WPD 6/7) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops June 5: A seminar on Health Literature, Library and Information Services (HELLIS) Network jointly sponsored by the Ministry of Health and WHO, opened at the Medical Research Department. 19 librarian trainees are among the participants. (WPD 6/ 7) June 9: A 4-day workshop on dental and oral medicine, jointly sponsored by the Ministry of Health and WHO, opened. (WPD 6/10) June 11: A three-week workshop on Curriculum and Materials Development for Teacher Education opened under joint sponsorship of the Ministry of Education and UNESCO/UNDP. Dr. Rupert Maclean, Chief Technical Adviser of the Teacher Education Project, spoke. (WPD 6/12) June 16: A seminar on Korman environmental and sanitation systems and Klor-Floc the Watermaker, co-sponsored by the Inspection and Agency Services and M/S Halim Biotech Pte., Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Managing Director Mr. Lau Yang Kim, was held. (WPD 6/17) Foreign Donations June 4: Mr. Jun Maruno, General Manager of M/S Nichimen Corporation, donated K150,000 for Tatmadaw hospitals [photo caption]. Dr. Soe Myint, "a Myanmar from the United States," donated an SR 50 AIDS/HIV virus diagnostic machine made by Sanofi Fujirebio Diagnostics Company to the Ministry of Health. (WPD 6/5) June 7: Dr. John F. Sipkens of the ADRA (Christian Mission) on June 2 donated equipment to the Yenatha Leprosy Hospital in Mandalay Division. (WPD 6/8) Rio Environmental Conference June 5: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw presented the following Forward to the Myanmar National Report at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development being held in Rio de Janiero [excerpts]: "The world has now come to realize that unsustainable patterns of resource use threatens the very survival of mankind and without concerted efforts of the international community future generations will be in jeopardy.... "Myanmar fully supports the concept of sustainable development. It also believes that it is impossible to separate economic development from environmental issues. Myanmar considers that environmental problems arise not only from overdevelopment but also from underdevelopment. For the developing countries, poverty is the overriding problem for environmental degradation. Without eradication of poverty the environment cannot be successfully protected and conserved.... "Myanmar [is convinced] that this process should be governed by the consensus in the UNGA resolution 44/228, which inter alia, `reaffirms that States have, in accordance with the Charter...and the applicable principles of international law, the sovereign right to exploit their own resources pursuant to their environmental policies, and also reaffirms their responsibility to ensure that activities within their jurisdiction or control do not cause damage to the environment of other states or of areas beyond the limits of national jurisdiction and the need for States to play their due role in preserving and protecting the global and regional environment in accordance with their capabilities and specific responsibilities.' "Myanmar is basically an agricultural country, and its people fully understand and appreciate the value of nature. They try to avoid extremes that will hurt nature and stive to live in harmony with it. The practice of consecration and protection of nature is ingrained in the heart of the Myanmar people." The Minister noted the establishment of the National Commission for Environmental Affairs in February 1992. "The Government of...Myanmar recognizes the actual and potential threats to mankind posed by deterioration of the environment due to unsustainable use of national resources. It feels that all the nations of the world must share the responsibility to save the planet. In this respect, it believes cooperative and concerted action is needed by the world community at national, regional, and international levels to overcome the global environmental problems. Myanmar, for its part will continue to strengthen its environmental endeavours and pledges to participate and cooperate in the global effort." (WPD 6/5) June 9-10: Environmental protection, by Moenat Thuzar. [Consideration of air pollution, water pollution, the greenhouse effect, global warming, climate change, etc. "Myanmar is one of the countries which have always recognized the importance of environmental problems."] June 9: Director U Thein Lwin of the Forest Department chaired a meeting of the Tree-Planting Committee to "discuss measures for planting fast-growing trees on an extensive scale through mass participation of the people." The purpose is "for the production of fuel wood as well as part of the measures to protect the environment." (WPD 6/10) June 11: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw made a statement June 9 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro [excerpts]: "The two decades which took us from Stockholm to Rio have indeed been memorable. Momentous changes have taken place in the world economically, politically and socially. The international community has awoken to the dangers of unsustainable patterns of production and consumption which are detrimental to a healthy environment. We are today presented with the rare opportunity of shaping the destiny of future generations. The unique opportunity of forging a global partnership--a partnership which will enable us to halt, mitigate and reverse the effects of global environmental degredation and launch us on the path to sustainable development--is before us. This partnership, to be lasting and effective, must be based on equality and respect for sovereignty. Moreover, it must be a partnership of shared responsibility. "Given the historical perspectives regarding the sources of environmental degredation, this responsibility though common must be differentiated. It is only logical and just that those countries which are the primary source of environmental degredation, which have more resources and environmentally sound technologies should shoulder corresponding responsibilities in the search for solutions to these environmental problems. Development and environment are intertwined, and underdevelopment and environmental degredation should not be seen as separate and independent phenonmena. Our efforts to preserve and protect the environment can bear fruit only if we merge environmental concerns with imperatives of development. It bears repetition here, Mr. President, that all peoples and countries have the fundamental right to development. Sustainable development could best be achieved if we strengthen the environmental component of economic development...." "We welcome and endorse the Rio Declaration. This declaration, by laying down the principle of the rights and obligations of States for attaining environmentally sound and sustainable development, will be of great significance for the whole world.... "Let us now turn to Agenda 21. While considerable progress has been made on this comprehensive programme of co-operative action, unresolved issues still remain. These programmes, in the view of my delegation, should support national priorities and must form an integral package and should in now way be a vehicle for new conditionalities. Central to the success of these programmes is the availability of new and additional financial resources .... Firm committments by our developed partners to cover the full incremential costs of implementing these programmes by the developing countries would be a basic requisite in promoting sustainable development. "Mr. President, The implementation of Agenda 21 will require an efficient funding mechanism. Such a funding mechanism should ensure transparency and easy accessibility. It must be based on equal representation by both developed and developing countries and should take into full account the national priorities of the developing countries. It is the view of my delegation that these objectives could best be fulfilled by a separate fund specifically established for implementation of Agenda 21. "The Fourth Substantive Session of the Preparatory Committee meeting has transmitted to us for finalizing, text on a Non Legally-binding Authoratative Statement on Principles on the Management, Conservation and Development of All Types of Forests. The text contains the basic elements for sustainable management of forest resources.... The sustainable use of forest resources has always been high on our national agenda. My delegation, therefore, places particular importance on the adoption of the Statement of Principles on Forests. These principles should fully recognize the sovereign right of countries to sustainably manage, conserve and develop their forests resources in accordance with their national plans and priorities, a principle reaffirmed at the Stockholm Conference.... "Therefore, it is crucial that this Conference adequately address the developmental issues that have strong and direct bearing on environment. Poverty alleviation, promoting a favourable international economic climate for the developing countries and ensuring an open and fair trading system should all feature prominently on our future agenda. Only if we address these issues would our endeavours to safeguard the environment have a real chance of success. "I thank you, Mr. President." (WPD 6/12) June 14-15: Forest Management and Environmental Conservation, by Maung Thabawa (Forest). [(1) History of Myanmar forest management, since King Badawpaya declared teak the Royal Tree in 1752, followed by the Elephant Protection Act of 1879, and the present Wildlife Protection Act of 1936. Under this act, protected animals are: [Completely protected: rhinoceros, tapir, thamim, argus pheasant, masked finfoot, and peafowl. They may be hunted only for scientific purposes. [Protected: elephant, bison (gaur), saing (banteng), serow, and goral. May be hunted only under special license. [Seasonally protected: barking deer, sambhur, hog deer, all pheasant partridge species, jungle fowl, quail, wild duck, and teal. May not be hunted during the mating and breeding season. [These categories are being reviewed with an eye to extension of protection to currently threatened species such as elephant, tiger, crocodile, and marine turtles. [29 areas have been surveyed and proposed "as different categories of protected areas with the aim of protecting different eco-systems, the diversity of wildlife, and significant natural landscapes." Five have already been established: Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park (least disturbed eco-system with rich wildlife diversity); Popa Mountain Park (geological landmark); Shwesettaw and Chatthin Wildlife Sanctuaries (to protect and study the ecology of the thamin [the Brow-antlered or Eld's Deer, Cervus eldi, of which one subspecies, Cervus eldi thamin (Thomas), is unique to Myanmar--HCMacD.]; and the Inle Wildlife Sanctuary (unique highland lake wetlands eco-system used by migratory birds). Proposed are the Lampi Marine National Park in Tanintharyi (rainforest and corals); the Meinmahla Kyun Wildlife Sanctuary in Ayeyarwady (preservation of degraded wetlands and endangered estuarine crocodiles and marine turtles). [(2) Other proposed areas are the Managed Elephant Ranges along the Rakhine and Bago Yomas (ranges) ("to protect the endangered and scattered Asian elephants that are the indispensable work force of Myanmar timber industry"); Teak Nature Reserve at Yenwechaung in Bago Yoma (teak ecosystem); Natmataung and Kyaukpandaung National Parks in Chin State (protect last refuges of local fauna and flora); Kachin State snow-capped mountains (scenic beauty and rare and endangered takin, musk deer, and orchids). "Most of these areas could become potential tourist attractions and conservation is the most sensible and feasible means to bring sustainable development of the local communities of the areas."] June 15: Speaking at a Seminar on Forestry Research, Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe spoke of the Rio Conference and said "it was very encouraging indeeed to learn that many countries that were against signing of agreements concerning the preservation of the eco-system and bio-diversity had changed their minds and had supported the motion. He said, however, that it was very alarming to learn that leaders of some large developed nations had resisted all attempts to sway them." (WPD 6/16) June 20: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw returned from the UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro. At the Conference, he said, Myanmar signed the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Framework Convention on Climate Change. He added that "more steps are to be taken so that the developed and the developing countries may understand the international aid detailed programmes extensively at the coming" UNGA. (WPD 6/21) Colombo Plan Conference June 11: Mr. John Ryan, Colombo Plan Bureau Director, and his assistant Miss Yasmin Raheem, met with Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel to discuss the Nov. 26-Dec. 2 34th Colombo Plan Consultative Committee Meeting to be held in Yangon this year. (WPD 6/12) Drug Control Agreement June 10: A 9-member Chinese narcotics delegation headed by Vice Minister Yu Lei of the Ministry of Public Security, who is General Secretary of the National Narcotic Control Council (NNCC), arrived "to sign an agreement on drug abuse control." (WPD 6/11) // June 11: The delegation visited the National Museum, the Myanma Gems Enterprise, and the Yangon Zoo. (WPD 6/12) June 11: A 2-member UN delegation headed by UNDCP Executive Director Giorgio Giacomelli; a 5-member Thai delegation led by Police General Chavalit Yodmani, General Secretary of the Drug Control Committee of Thailand; and a 2-member Lao observer delegation led by Mr. Kou Chansina of the Lao Drug Control Committee, arrived to sign "agreements on co-operation of neighbouring countries in sub-regional drug control." (WPD 6/12) June 12: The visiting delegations were received by SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. The UN delegation, in addition to UNDCP Executive Director Giorgio Giacomelli, includes Bangkok UNDCP Resident Representative William Beachner and UNDP Resident Representative Gerd Merrem. The Chinese delegation, in addition to Vice-Minister Yu Lei, includes NNCC Director-General Liu Weng and Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Liang Feng. The Thai delegation, in addition to Police General Chavalit Yodmani, includes Police Maj-Gen. Wichai Pungsang Phan and Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul. The Lao delegation, in addition to Mr. Kou Chansina, includes Mr. Prasith Sayasith from the Drug Suppression and Supervision Committee. The Thai delegation called on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Phone Myint, Chairman of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control. Myanmar and UNDCP signed tri-partite Project Agreements with China and Thailand with the following objectives: "(1) To eliminate trafficking in narcotic drugs and chemicals used in the refining of narcotic drugs across the border. "(2) To eliminate poppy cultivation in the areas adjacent to the border through economic and social development programmes. "(3) To eliminate the demand for local consumption of narcotic drugs in border areas." Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw reviewed the history of the negotiations leading up to these agreements, including meetings with UNFDAC in Yangon (Dec. 2-4, 1989); with China in Yangon (Aug. 22-Sept. 2, 1990); with China in Beijing (May 10-20, 1991); with Thailand in Myanmar (Sept. 24-27, 1990); and with Thailand in Chiengmai (Mar. 4-8, 1991). Meetings were also held with Laos in Yangon and Vientiane, and similar agreements would be signed with that country. [photos] (WPD 6/13) June 16: The delegations toured border areas in Shan State, and visited Bagan-Nyaung-U, from June 13-16 [details]. (WPD 6/17) June 17: Joint meetings were held between the Myanmar-China-UNDCP and Myanmar-Thailand-UNDCP drug committees to discuss 1992 activities. \\ The Laotian Delegation left. (WPD 6/ 18) June 18: The Chinese, UNDCP, and Thai narcotics delegations left. (WPD 6/19) FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors June 10: UNDP Urban Transport Specialist Dr. Jitendra N. Bajpai and party called on Yangon City Development Committee Secretary U Pan Aung "to discuss matters on providing help for the travelling public in Yangon and Myothits [satellite towns-HCMacD.] to travel conveniently and on helping to enforce traffic rules...." (WPD 6/11) Chinese Delegation June 3: The six-member Chinese study delegation led by Prof. Zhang Xueshu left after its 15-day stay in Myanmar. (WPD 6/4) Vatican Representative June 4: Archbishop Alberto Tricarico of Vatican City, a personal representative of the Pope, called on Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. (WPD 6/5) BBC Corrspondent June 10: BBC Correspondent Mr. Roger Hearing called on SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. [see also under Anti-Narcotics Activities and Myanmar-Bangladesh Border.] (WPD 6/11) Sri Lankan Minister June 17: Sri Lankan State Minister for Highways Mr. Ananda Kularaine called on Minister for Construction U Khin Maung Yin. (WPD 6/18) Georgetown Professor June 26: Georgetown University [Washington, D] Professor David I. Steinberg called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 6/27) June 27: Professor Steinberg, accompanied by No. 77 Mobile Light Infantry Division Commander Brig-Gen. Ket Sein, Chairman of the Dagon Myothit Construction Committee, he toured Dagon Myothit (North and South). Later, he was received by Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 6/28) June 29: Professor Steinberg called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay, and later visited the Theingyizay D Complex Project Site. He also called on Chairman U Ba Htay and members of the Multiparty Democracy General Election Commission. (WPD 6/30) Thai Co-operation Delegation June 29: A 13-member Thai technical cooperation delegation led by Director-General Sawanit Kongsiri of the Foreign Ministry Department of Economic Affairs arrived to discuss "Thailand's expanded programme of technical co-operation with Myanmar." (WPD 6/30) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations June 1: Assistant Township Education Officer U Soe Thant of Kunhing Twp. [Shan] and Assistant Supervisor of Education Daw War War Saung of Magway Division left for Israel May 31 for training in Rural Community Development with Emphasis on the Role of Women. (WPD 6/2) June 6: Assistant Director U Sein Myint Aung of the Department of Cultural Institute left for Australia to study museums from Une 6-24 under the Australian Cultural Awards Scheme. (WPD 6/7) June 16: A five-member education delegation led by Planning Officer U Yan Naing of the Education Planning Department left for Japan to study education activities for 15 days with the assistance of the Japan Foundation. (WPD 6/17) June 20: Deputy General Manager U Ba Win of Myanma Posts and Telecommunications left for Beijing to attend the June 22-26 Marketing Seminar for Senior Managers. (WPD 6/21) June 21: A three-member delegation led by Director-General of the Indigenous Medicine Department Dr. Sein Yi left to study indigenous medicine for two months in China, Japan, and India. Other members are U Nyan Lwin and U Than Soe. (WPD 6/22) June 24: A delegation led by Dr. Khin Maung Nyunt, member of the Commission for Compiling Authentic Facts on Myanmar History, left for a six-week tour of China under the Myanmar-China cultural exchange program. Other members are Assistant Research Office U Tin Win (Pyinmana Maung Ni Thin) of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan Educational Research Bureau, Assistant Editor U Taezar Hlaing of the Guardian Press, Head of Division (International) U Hlaing Win (Tekkatho Maung Thu Hlaing) of the Myanma News Agency, and (as Secretary) Director U Maung Win of the Press Scrutiny and Registration Division. (WPD 6/25) June 25: Deputy Chief Editor U Tin Hlaing of Kyemon Daily Press and Editor U Aung Thura of Myanmar News Agency (International) left on a two-week study tour in Singapore at The Straits Times. (WPD 6/26) June 29: Lecturer Daw May Thit of Patheingyi Agricultural Institute and Instructor Daw Kun Phan of Lashio Handicraft School left June 27 for the Philippines to attend a June 29-July 10 course on Women Technicians in Rural Industrialization sponsored by the Columbo Plan Staff College for Technician's Education. (WPD 6/30) ILO Annual Conference May 31: A Myanmar delegation left for Geneva to attend the 79th Annual Conference of the International Labour Organization, from June 3-23. Leaving were Director-General U Min Aung of the Factories and General Labour Laws Inspection Department, Factory Manager U Khin Maung Kyu of the No. 1 Oil Refinery (Thanhlyin), Deputy Director U Tin Shein of the Attorney-General's Office, Assistant Director U Aye Ngwe of the Labour Department. Leading the delegation will be Permanent Representative U Tin Kyaw Hlaing of the Myanmar Mission to the UN in Geneva, accompanied by Deputy Permanent Representative U Mya Than, Second Secretaries U Tun Ohn and U Nyunt Swe, and Third Secretary U Win Naing. (WPD 6/1) June 12: U Tin Kyaw Hlaing, leader of the delegation, addressed the Conference on June 11. (WPD 6/13) June 16: Delegation leader U Tin Kyaw Hlaing, Permanent Representative at the Myanmar Office to the UN in Geneva, addressed the ILO Conference on June 11 [full text published]. He said [excerpts]: "The Director-General has...chosen that the theme `Democratization and the ILO'...in the Part I of his Report. We generally share [his] view ...that the democratization process is a very delicate and complicated matter and that it is difficult to get a conclusive answer to the related questions. However, we feel that consideration of this subject is appropriate and timely.... "It is gratifying to see that... Albania and...Vietnam have resumed their membership in the Organization. The Organization has also strengthened its membership by admission of new Member States.... Membership...has increased from the initial number of 45 to 158. These member nations have different historical and cultural backgrounds, different social and political systems with different levels of economic progress.... "There is no single path to development which all must adhere to. Each country has to choose its own political, social and economic system towards development. In...Myanmar, we are endeavouring to achieve all round development of our country, largely based on our own efforts. The State Law and Order Restoration Council, through its tireless efforts, has succeeded in re-establishing a peaceful and stable situation in the country. Ample opportunity now exists for betterment of the conditions of the working people.... "In Myanmar, the democratization process has been going on with the objective that it will be in harmony with the aspirations of the people. We are amenable to adopting certain things which are appropriate and which can fit into our way of life. While advancing towards this ultimate objective, the Government is doing its best for the all-our development of the nation.... "May I touch briefly on certain achievements which have contributed towards the social betterment of the people. There has been unprecedented expansion in the construction sector which has led to the creation and the expansion of job opportunities for construction workers throughout the country. One can witness the great strides made in construction, maintenance and repair of roads, bridges, parks, schools, hospitals and many others in every region of the country.... "The border areas...have now flourished and become accessible to every economic, social and cultural service provided by the government. These areas were one time under the terrorist groups where transportation and communication had been almost cut-off for several years.... "To provide shelter for the homeless and improve the living environment of the poor, new satellite towns have been set up by the Government in recent years. Thousands of people including workers are now enjoying the fruits of the ambitious plan of the government made out of absolute goodwill.... "The other important step...is the adoption of programmes for the utilisation of fallow and virgin land. These programmes will substantially increase employment opportunities in the agricultural and livestock breeding sectors of the economy.... "We are deeply involved in combatting the drug-abuse problem. In our statement made last year from this rostrum, we have elaborated on our stand, activities and achievements on this subject. Continuous efforts are being made...to reduce...illicit production, supply, trafficking and demand for drugs. Destruction of vast areas of poppy fields is made every year. Moreover, drug refineries, large quantities of narcotic drugs and drug producing paraphernalia seized by the authorities, have also been destroyed in the presence of the representatives from the international agencies including the UNDCP and the diplomatic corps .... Prevention, treatment and rehabilitation programmes are also in full swing as part of our attempt to reduce demand.... "Myanmar shares the view with the United Nations on the important role of children.... Thus, Myanmar promptly ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child last July. On that day, Myanmar also signed the World Declaration on the survival, protection and development of children.... "There are numerous laws, including labour laws, which were enacted through different periods. All of these laws are now under review. The central body for scrutinizing the existing laws has been formed.... As a result, new labour laws will, where necessary, be enacted to reflect the changing conditons.... "On matters relating to Human Resources Development, Myanmar is taking part in the regional HRD-activities of the ESCAP by endorsing the Jakarta Plan of Action on Human Resources Development. Myanmar has designated a National Focal Point to deal with the Commission on this matter. We are very much interested in the Commission's approach to HRD, particularly with regard to the enhancement of quality of life of the people.... (WPD 6/17) June 26: The Myanmar delegates returned home. (WPD 6/27) Delegations to Meetings & Events June 19: Associate Professor Dr. Cho Cho Myint of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agriculture, Yezin, left June 18 for Sariburi, Thailand to participate as a technician in the June 21-26 Conference on EM Technology for Scientists sponsored by the Thailand-based Asia-Pacific Natural Agricultural Network (APNAN). (WPD 6/20) June 20: A nine-member Myanmar Red Cross youth delegation led by U Saw San Htwe of the Kayin State Red Cross Supervisory Committee, left for Thailand to attend Thai Queen Sirikit's 60th Birthday Anniversary and an Asia-Pacific Red Cross Youth get-together at the Siriacha Scout Camp in Chonbury Province, June 21-27. \\ Deputy Minister for Education Col. Kyi Maung and Director-General U Tin Pe of the Basic Education Department left for Jomtien, Thailand, to attend the June 22-26 13th Regional Meeting on the Asia and the Pacific Programme of Educational Innovation for Development. (WPD 6/21) // June 29: The delegation returned. (WPD 6/30) Delegations Return [Return of Delegations that departed in previous months.] June 3: The Myanmar writers' delegation led by U Hla Tun returned from China. (WPD 6/4) MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The SLORC made the following appointments, on probation: June 4: U Kyaw Lwin, Director, to be Director-General, Fisheries Department, Ministry of Livestock Breeding and Fisheries. (WPD 6/4) June 10: Col. Tin Oo (BC/8028), Ministry of Defence, to be Director-General, Industrial Planning Department, Ministry of Industry-1. (WPD 6/11) Appointments Confirmed The SLORC confirmed the following appointments, on the expiry of the probationary period [generally one year]: June 4: U Kyaw Myint as Managing-Director, Myanma Metals Industry, Ministry of Industry-1. U Khin Maung as Director-General, Department of Agricultural Mechanization, Ministry of Agriculture. (WPD 6/4) Transfers The SLORC made the following transfers: June 17: Dr. Myint Thein, Director-General, Planning and Statistics Department, Ministry of Forestry, to be Director-General, Agricultural Planning Department, Ministry of Agriculture. (WPD 6/18) GOVERNMENT Savings Banks Law June 11: SLORC Law No. 5/92, the Savings Bank Law, regulates the establishment and operation of savings bank accounts [full text published in WPD]. Notably, interest earned on an account is not subject to income or profits tax nor included in the taxpayer's assessable income. Savings Records or Certificates are not transferable without the Bank's consent, and depositors are responsible for their safekeeping. The time of savings certificates, and rates of interest, are established by the bank. (WPD 6/12) Statement on Narcotics June 26: Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Phone Myint issued the following message on the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking [text]: Today is the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The United Nations General Assembly in 1987 decided without a vote to observe 26 June each year as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. It has been five years, this year included, that Myanmar Naing-Ngan has held on this occasion anti-narcotics exhibitions, competitions and talks to commemorate the International Day. The problem of drug abuse and illicit trafficking is a threat to all the countries of the world. Myanmar Naing-Ngan has been combating this problem of narcotics since long time ago. In 1974 Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Law was enacted and since then Myanmar Naing-Ngan has intensified her efforts to fight against narcotic drugs as a national commitment. In 1975 the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control was instituted with with nine task forces formed under it to systematically implement the anti-narcotics task. After the State Law and Order Restoration Council has assumed the State responsibilities on 18 September 1988, the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control was reconstituted to enable it to carry out the anti-narcotics suppression work more practically and effectively. Having been reconstituted, the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control worked on two areas; narcotics supply reduction and demand reduction. The supply reduction consists of law enforcement measures, crop substitution and livestock breeding and the demand reduction work covers treatment and rehabilitation of addicts and education and mass media information. The meeting of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control (Meeting No 1/91) held on 18 October 1991 decided to focus more on demand reduction work in 1992. Pursuant to that decision, plans have been laid which are being implemented. In the area of narcotics suppression, plans being carried out by the Defence Services, the People's Police Force and the Customs have been successful. On the other hand, the narcotic drugs seized by law enforcement personnel were destroyed on five occasions at Yangon while opium refineries, narcotic drugs, chemicals, other paraphernalia and poppy plantations were destroyed on seven occasions in border areas with the conscious participation of the national races. On those occasions, over one thousand kilos of heroin (1116.689), three hundred kilos of opium (327.28), over two thousand eight hundred kilos of marijuana (2814.919), over sixteen thousand litres of phensedyl (16245.5), other narcotic drugs and over seven thousand acres of poppy plantations were destroyed. In parallel with the progress made in law enforcement field, successes have been achieved in the narcotics prevention work, due to multi-dimensional approach carried out as a national endeavour. Included in the approach is the Progress for the Development of Border Areas and National Races which constitutes a sector in the plan for the eradication of narcotic drugs. At the international level, in accordance with the resolution adopted at the 17th Special Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the anti-narcotics work of Myanmar Naing-Ngan is being carried out not only at national level, but also at sub-regional level, in co-operation with her neighbouring countries. On 12 June 1992, project documents on sub-regional cooperation were signed with the People's Republic of China, The Royal Kingdom of Thailand and the United Nations International Drug Control Programme. Under these projects, narcotics suppression, regional development and crop-substitution and livestock breeding will be implemented. With successes that will be achieved under these ambitious projects, poppy cultivation and illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs will gradually be eradicated. Side by side with the relentless efforts of the Government of the Union of Myanmar, may all the citizens consciously cooperate at family level and also at Division and the State levels, while maintaining cultural traditions and customs of Myanmar, thereby preventing the menace of narcotic-drugs which threatens the entire world. May the humanity be freed of the scourge of narcotic drugs through collective endeavours. (WPD 6/25) MILITARY Tatmadaw Actions June 8: Eastern Command forces on May 27-28 clashed with a group of SUA terrorists near Kengtung. Three terrorists were killed, along with several weapons [detailed] and 13 kilos of opium. (WPD 6/9) Insurgent Attacks June 13: KIA terrorists, "taking advantage of halt in Tatmadaw offensives," on June 5 raided the town of Namyun and Pangsaung Camp in Sagaing Division. Fighting continues. "The Tatmadaw halted its offensives on 28 April this year, with the aim of bringing reconciliation to the Union nationals and strengthening national unity" (WPD 6/14) // June 14: The Namyun area has been "completely mopped up" by the Tatmadaw, which is in hot pursuit of the retreating enemy. (WPD 6/15) // June 21: The site was visited by SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo. (WPD 6/22) Insurgents Surrender June 1: Two KIA terrorists surrendered with their weapons. (WPD 6/2) June 3: "Fifty-five members of ABSDF (North) terrorist group who had been confined at Pajao camp in KIA terrorist area go away from camp on 21 May and fled to Momauk Township. [One] died on the way because of injuries received from terrorist tortures at the camp. Remaining 54 members returned to legal fold at Lweje Tatmadaw camp in Momauk Township and Muse Tatmadaw camp on 26 May.... [names and parentage]." [See also above, under Press Conference.] (WPD 6/4) June 18: Between May 1-15, 30 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 6/19) June 19: Between May 16-26, 17 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 6/20) June 21: Between May 26-28, 55 terrorists (largely from the ABSDF) surrendered, with their arms [names and details], bringing the month's total to 102. (WPD 6/22) ECONOMIC Economic Articles June 1-5,8-13,16-21,23-30: Construction of Roads and Bridges during the time of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, by Mya Kalaung. [Cont. Record of recent projects.] June 3: Editorial: "Stick No Bills". ["This notice...is a warning by City Hall that open wall-spaces which `poster-pasters' find very inviting should not be de-faced˙by a profusion of advertisements.... A recent case in point concerns five signs advertising private tuition classes which had been wantonly hung up without proper authorization on road-side trees in Lanmadaw Township in down-town Yangon. The five teachers who were responsible for the private tuition classes...were found guilty and each of them had to pay a thousand kyats as fine for having contravened city ordinance.... It is a fine example which other townships would do well to emulate!"] June 11: Editorial: Standards and Specifications. ["The importance of having standards and specifications cannot be under-rated as a means of injecting vigour and strength into the economy.... What customers want and demand with great insistance is quality which can be precisely matched against precise specifications which have become established through market experience.... The point in question is whether such standards and specifications... should be applied only when we consider international markets.... To our way of thinking, quality should begin at home. And precise standards and specifications should be prescribed and imposed upon all producers of all kinds of commodities from agricultural produce to manufactured goods. Perhaps a number of quality categories would be a suitable way of making available differing qualities and prices of goods to suit different income groups.... The enforcement of standards and specifications...would help to provide a better deal for our own consumers and prevent unscrupulous traders from palming off shoddy goods under false pretenses,...[and]...a good reputation for the maintenance of strict standards of quality in the domestic market would be powerful influence in our attempts to enter the international market...."] Construction & Other Projects May 31: The 125-foot, K1.8 million, Mine Ye Kyaw Thu Bridge was inaugurated at Sarparchaung village [Yangon]. (WPD 6/1) June 1: A telephone auto-exchange was opened May 30 in Kale. The 250-line exchange was upgraded to 600 ines, at a cost of K29 million [presumably including a satellite ground station inaugurated Jan. 29]. The Pyay Twp. [Bago] Township Zone Combined Law Office was inaugurated May 30. (WPD 6/1) June 3: The new K1.8 million market was opened May 30 in Danubyu [Ayeyarwady]. (WPD 6/4) June 4: The villages of Wam Lon, Wam Kyin, Tarlekyay, and Wam Pon, in Tachilek Twp. [Shan], received electricity Mar. 20-27. (WPD 6/5) June 7: A Maubin Twp. [Ayeyarwady] Law Office was inaugurated June 6. Since the SLORC assumed State power in 1988, 89 new law offices have been constructed. (WPD 6/8) June 10: A sports ground and tennis court was opened June 7 in Thongwa Twp. [Yangon]. (WPD 6/11) June 10: 14 apartment buildings with 304 units will be built in "the fire-ravaged area of Zaygalay Ward" in Kyimyindine Twp. [Yangon]. "The contractors will be given some units. The households whose houses have been demolished and who can produce the grant certificate will also be resettled at the buildings." (WPD 6/11) June 14: A ground-breaking ceremony was held at Kyaukyedwin for the construction of the Yangon International Airport Hotel. The six-storey three-star hotel, with 160 rooms, will be constructed in two years. (WPD 6/15) // June 21: Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel and SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt participated in a cornerstone laying ceremony for the new hotel. (WPD 6/22) June 24: The renovated motor roadway on the Sagaing Bridge was inaugurated. The 3948 foot Sagaing Bridge across the Ayeyarwady River was first constructed in 1927. (WPD 6/ 25) Basic Commodities June 15: "Yangon consumers can buy as much rice as they like from JVC No 2. `Meedon', `emata' and `ngasein' varieties of rice are being sold at the No 2 JVC Head Office in Port area between Lanthit Street and Wadan Street and at No 35 Godown in Port area daily except Saturdays, Sundays and gazetted holidays. Customers can buy rice as much as they like, it is learnt." (WPD 6/16) Tourism June 1: A six-week Tourist Guide Training Course No. 1/92, sponsored by Myanma Hotel and Tourism Services, opened with 38 trainees. (WPD 6/2) Banking June 1: The Myanma Economic Bank has announced that Savings Branches 1, 2, 3, and 4, as well as the Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank, will accept fixed deposits from individuals and lawful organizations as of June 1. Interest rates are 8.5% for 3 month, 9% for 6 month, and 9.5% for 9 month fixed deposits. (WPD 6/2) June 2: The Myanmar Nationals Bank, Ltd. was inaugurated at its building, 383 Maha Bandoola Street [Yangon]. Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel said that authorization for the bank was issued Oct. 30, 1991. Of the K1,000 million capital, K450 million is to be invested by joint venture corporations in which trade organizations have a share; so far K 37.50 million has been invested. Once the bank "is able to exist on its own" the ratio of shares of the trade organizations will be modified. The Minister noted that private banks had existed until they were nationalized over 20 years ago, and that the First Private Bank Limited has now been issued an operating licence and will soon become operational. Bank Chairman U Ko Ko Gyi also spoke. (WPD 6/3) June 25: "The authorities concerned have announced that there is to be no longer any limit on the amount of cash that can be deposited in or withdrawn from savings accounts opened at the Myanma Economic Bank or its branches even though the once-a-week withdrawal rule still stands." Similarly, "the limit previously prescribed for the amount of savings certificates has also been lifted." (WPD 6/26) June 25: The Myanmar Economic Bank announced that the savings bank annual interest rate has been increased to 10% per year, and the savings certificate rate to 12% per year, effective July 1, 1992. The new rates will apply, as of July 1, to savings certificates bought before then. (WPD 6/26) June 29: Interest rates on loans from the Myanma Economic Bank and the Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank will be increased, from July 1, to 14.5% (5-10 years), 15% (5 years), and 16.5% (1 year). (WPD 6/ 30) Commerce and Trade June 2: "Those wishing to open restaurants, store-rooms and long-distance bus-ticket kiosks at Sawbwagyigon bus terminal may apply to Revenue Department, Yangon City Development Committee. Applicants must pay in K 500,000 for a restaurant, K 650,000 for a store-room and K 550,000 for a long-distance bus-ticket kiosk, it is learnt." (WPD 6/ 2) June 2: Speaking to the opening of Workshop No. 2/92 on trade matters for private entrepreneurs, Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel said that as of May 15, 1992 there were 6,510 registered private entrepreneurs. This is the 13th course, and is being attended by 97 participants. (WPD 6/3) June 9: Co-operatives have been boosting exports. Sixteen cooperatives, including the Central Co-operative Society. "export agricultural products, timber and timber products and handicrafts after signing contracts with foreign countries. They include certain beans and pulses, hardwood, cane and wickerware, gold and silver embroidery and lacquerware. The co-operatives send their goods to Japan, Thailand, India, Pakistan, The People's Republic of China, Republic of Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong in Asia, as well as to such western countries as Germany and Britain and the United States." Such exports were worth US$ 61,000 in 1989-90, US$ 3.16 million in 1990-91, and US$ 9.29 million in 1991-92. In 1992-93 the coops have so far exported US$ 1.28 million, and the target for the year is over US$ 12 million. (WPD 6/ 10) June 15: Customs Department Director-General U Khin Nyein said that Customs will accept payment of customs duties up to K5,000 in cash. Larger amounts (except at the airport) must be by Payment Order on established demand deposit or savings bank accounts, which can be opened in 30 minutes at specified banks. "The bank will ask no questions about the source of money to be put in the demand deposits or savings accounts." (WPD 6/16) June 18: Ministry of Trade Order No. 6/92, an export exemption order, was issued concerning "the sending of food, medicine and personal goods for Myanmar citizens abroad either on assignment of the State or on their own programmes with permission of the government pursuing their studies, working, or living as dependents." The text will be published in the fortnightly TIS News of the Trade Department. (WPD 6/19) Population Policy June 5: SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt opened a seminar on national population policy at the Inya Lake Hotel. He said the National Health Committee "has held a series of discussions for laying down national population policy." It is important to know the country's population growth rate and "control its population to be in line with the national economy and the national health policy." Myanmar's location near "high population countries," must also be taken into account. The Secrtary "declared that the country would advocate the method of proper spacing of births rather than on contraceptives for birth control ...." Once a policy has been approved, a National Population Council will be created under the National Health Committee to implement the policy...." (WPD 6/6) Taxes June 6: Notice from Directorate of Income Tax and Profit Tax: All taxpayers assessed under the Profit Tax Law and with income of K10,001 and above must file returns with the local Township Revenue Office by June 30, 1992. Co-operative societies with income of K15,001 and more must also file, as must companies, joint-venture enterprises, and other covered taxpayers. Persons with income of K15,001 and above derived wholly from salaries are not required to file, as their tax has been withheld, but Employers must furnish the Annual Salary Statement by June 30. Forms may be obtained free of charge. (WPD 6/6) Transportation June 6: Effective June 7, tickets for the Yangon-Mandalay Express will be put on sale at 6.30 am instead of 7 am in the morning, and will be sold up to 11.00 am. As in the past, tickets will be sold in the afternoon from 1 pm to 4 pm. (WPD 6/7) June 17: In three years, the number of commuters carried by the All Private Bus Lines Control Committee (Yangon Division) has grown from 1.1 million to 1.8 million daily. Over 2,500 APBLCC buses are making 28,000 trips a day. (WPD 6/18) June 26: Speaking at the Myanma Port Authority, SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo noted that Yangon Port handles 80% of goods arriving in Myanmar by sea. The Managing Director of Inland Water Transport said "that the transportation of rice from rice mills along the river to hte ports through water route is more convenient and cost efficient and that freight handling charges could greatly be cut if steps could be taken for the imports from foreign vessels to be loaded onto the vessels belonging to the Inland Transport for distribution in the country." The Managing Director of the Myanma Port Authority said that the Authority had handled 2.4 million tons of goods in 1991-92, and called for more efficient port activities: "the ships are allowed to carry out full-power service at the present ports and at the same time the ship awaiting to disembark the port should be allowed to do freight-handling at the middle of the river; some goods are arranged to be stored in the temporary warehouses and some are systematically kept in the open air; most of the ship at the port are doing freight-handling of timber and naturally this is a slow work and if the system of freight-handling in the middle of river is introduced, the freight-handling work will be swifter at the port; 403 cars have not bee claimed through the Customs Department and Transport Administration Department and Port Authority have taken steps to deliver them at the earliest convenience; the cars which have not been claimed within two months' duration will be put on auction in accordance with the principle and measures for collection money from the owner for their lateness to claim their cars are under way [sic]." (WPD 6/27) Joint Ventures June 9: Myanma Seal Ltd. was established as a joint venture between Myanmar Timber Enterprise, represented by Managing Director U Hla Pe, Seal Inc. Bhd. Co. of Malaysia, represented by Chairman Mr. Loh Kim Foh and Executive Director Mr. Loh Mui Fah, and Okura Shoji Co. of Japan, represented by Director Mr. Tsu Tsui. "Under the accord, milling, plywood production and wood-veneer production will be conducted at the No 4 Plywood Factory and three saw mills in Pathein." (WPD 6/ 10) June 11: A production sharing contract was signed between No. 3 Mining Enterprise, represented by Acting Managing Director U Mya Soe, and Watana Trading Ltd. of the United States, represented by Myanma Managing Director Mr. Frank W. M. Wong, for "granite mining operation in Yezin village-tract of Pyinmanaa Township in Mandalay Division." Initially, granite blocks and crushed rock will be produced, and then a processing plant will be established for the production of finished granite blocks and slabs. (WPD 6/12) June 11: At the first general meeting of Joint Venture Corporation No. (8), Chairman U Win Naing and Acting Director-General U Myo Min made speeches. Nine members of the Board of Directors were elected. (WPD 6/12) June 16: The Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, represented by Managing Director U Aung Min, signed a production sharing contract with Trend International (Bermuda) Ltd., of the United States, represented by President Mr. J Vinje, for reactivation of the suspended oil-fields at Letpando Block and Tuyintaung Block. Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein delivered the permits and Notifications No. 1(Special)/92 and No. 2(Special)/92 dated June 16, 1992. (WPD 6/17) June 16: The Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise also signed a production sharing contract with Apache Oil Myanmar Inc. of the United States, represented by President Mr. B.M. Rahmani, for reactivation of suspended oil-fields at Pyalo-Paukkaung Block and Pyi East Block. The Minister for Energe delivered the permits and Notifications No. 3(Special)/92 and 4(Special)/92 dated June 16, 1992. (WPD 6/17) June 19: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 7/92 of June 19 establishes the Myanmar-Borneo Company Limited, a private joint-venture company organized for "carrying out marketing of pharmaceutical products, office automation equipments [sic], printing and photographic products, department store management and related activities, travel, and resources development including engineering services," with an authorized capital of K20 million divided into 2,000 shares of K10,000 each, of which 980 shares will be subscribed in kyat or in kind by Medicines and Medical Equipment Trading, Printing and Photographic Stores Trading, Myanmar Department Stores, and Inspection and Agency Services of the Ministry of Trade, represented by their Managing Directors, and 1020 shares, subscribed in foreign currency or in kind by Borneo Company Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Company Director Mr. Neil Rombaut, 450-452 Alexandra Road, Singapore 0511. (WPD 6/20) June 24: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 8/92 of June 24 establishes Myanmar Unimix International Ltd., a private joint venture formed "for the purpose of manufacturing and marketing of garments," with authorized capital of K15,625,000 divided into 15,625 shares of K1,000 each, of which 6,250 are held by the Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Co. Ltd., represented by its Managing Director, and 9,375 by Unimix (Myanmar) Ltd. of Hong Kong, represented by Chief Executive Officer Paul C.M. Tsang of Hong Kong. (WPD 6/25) Agriculture June 18: Speaking to Yangon Division agriculture officials, Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung "disclosed that out of about 45 million cultivable acres in Myanmar Naing-Ngan, there were 12 million acres put under paddy, about 8 million acres put under other crops and about 5 million acres under multiple crops. He said there was need for reclaiming more fallow and virgin land.... Another thing...was for... using scientific methods which would increase the yield per acre by at least four or five baskets per acre ...." (WPD 6/19) Mid-year Gems Emporium June 16: Minister for Mines Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin announced that there will be a Mid-year Emporium of Myanma Gems, Jade and Pearls in October. He said that the 29th Emporium in February brought in over US$8.7 million, which "did not quite match the preceding year's record." (WPD 6/20) 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: June 1 5.39 9.13 7.75 June 15 11.10 16.65 14.68 June 30 19.57 28.03 26.42 HEALTH Traditional Medicine June 1: A seminar on specialties in Traditional Medicine, sponsored by the Department of Traditional Medicine with assistance from WHO, was opened by Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein, who said that its objective was "to revive the use of traditional medicine in giving treatment; to revive traditional medicine treatment methods before they become extinct; to disseminate knowledge of traditional medicine among the people and to expedite exchange of experience among practitioners." The seminar, which will last five days, is being attended by 51 participants. (WPD 6/ 2) June 18: Meeting with traditional medicine practitioners, Minister for Health and for Education Col. Pe Thein "reminded [them] against trying to ape Western methods of treatment and warned that if they tried to do so, traditional medicine would become a second-rate western medicine." Rather, they should "seek progress with confidence in their own medicine for their own country till it becomes a first-rate, advanced medical science." He advised "reviving the technique of bone-setting, compiling Myanmar medical treatises based on knowledge recorded on parchments and publishing them." (WPD 6/19) Health Statistics June 9: During 1991-92, according to providional figures, a total of 47 hospitals, 34 dispensaries, 112 rural health centres, 14 maternal and child care health centres, 18 secondary health centres, 5 school health committees, and 26 indigenous medicine clinics were opened. In border areas, 14 hospitals and 25 dispensaries were "newly opened." (WPD 6/10) SPORTS Sports Articles June 6: Befriended with sports again, by Maung Wala. [Gratitude to National Sports Festival for restoring the author's interest in sports. "I determined to keep up with weight-lifting regularly and train promising youths till they attained the world standard."] (WPD 6/6) Myanmar Teams & Delegations June 1: The Myanmar marathon team took part in the 8th Kuala Lumpur Invitational Marathon on May 31. Victoria took third in the women's event with 2:57:48, and won US$ 750.00. Philip was 11th in the men's race with 2:38:24. (WPD 6/2) June 4: A Myanmar rowing team headed by Deputy Commander of South-West Command Col. Thein Kyi left to participate in the 2nd World Invitational Dragon Boat Races in Singapore. Team members are Team Manager U Sein Tun, Chairman of the Rowing Federation, Secretary Dr. Than Toe, Coach U Aung Khin, and 25 rowers. (WPD 6/5) // June 9: Myanmar placed fourth, with a time of 03:04.1 (winning Indonesia was 02:57.8). (WPD 6/10) June 5: A Myanmar judo team headed by the Judo Federation Vice-President left for Malaysia to participate in the 1st Malaysia Open Judo Championship. On the team are Deputy Director of Sports and Physical Education Department U Nyan Tun as Manager, Secretary of the Judo Federation U Ba Hein as coach, U Kyaw Sein and Dr. San Shwe as referees, 12 athletes and others. (WPD 6/6) // June 7: On the first day, Khin Mu Mu, Htar Htar Khine, Thant Zin, and Zaw Lwin won gold; Tin Tin Maw, Thwe Thwe Win, and Tun Ok won silver; San Htay Yi won bronze. (WPD 6/8) // June 12: The Myanmar team returned home, having won four gold, three silver, and one bronze medals. (WPD 6/13) June 9: A Myanmar veterans team headed by Deputy Director of the Sports and Physical Education Department U Kyaw Soe Myint left for Singapore to participate in the 7th Asian Veterans Athletic Championship to be held June 11-15. Sports Officer U Saw Yan Ni is the manager of the team, which has 2 coaches and 12 veteran athletes. (WPD 6/10) // June 11: In the first day, Mar Mar Tin won gold in 10,000-meter running; Jennifer Tin Lay won gold in women's discus (age 40-44); Nawbwe Htoo won gold in women's discus (35-39); Tin Aye won gold in men's high jump (40-44); Kyaw Nyunt Moe won gold in men's high jump (45-49); Ma Kawt Ja won gold in women's 1,500-meter running (35-39). Myint Myint Than won silver in women's 1,500-meter running (35-39). May Yin Nu won bronze in 100-meter running (45-49). (WPD 6/12) // June 12: Mar Mar Win won a second gold in the 5,000-metre run (age 35-39; Win Kyi won gold in men's 10-km walk (40-44); Nwe Nwe Aye was third in women's 5-kim walk. Michael won bronze, and Mya Thway silver, in men's 5,000-metre run (40--45). (WPD 6/13) // June 15: The team is due back today, after winning 12 gold, 6 silver, and 5 bronze medals. (WPD 6/16) // June 16: The team got a rousing welcome home. Kyan Nyunt Moe set a new record for high jump (age 45-49) with 1.64 metres. Mya Thwe set a new record in 10,000 metres race (40-44) with 33:57.9. Mar Mar Min set a new record in 5,000 metres (35-39) with 19:5.6. Jennifer Tin Lay set a new record in discus throw (40-44) with 36.32 metres. Naw Bwe Htoo set a new record in discus throw (35-39) with 32.5 metres. Michael set a new Asian record in 10,000 metres (40-44) with 34:55.4. Naw Bwe Htoo set a new Asian record in shotput (35-39) with 11.28 metres. (WPD 6/17) June 21: A volleyball team headed by Volleyball Federation President Provost Marshal Col. Myint Lwin, including a manager, two coaches, a referee, and 12 players, left to participate in the 4th Asia and Pacific Volleyball Competition in Japan, which begins June 24. (WPD 6/ 22) June 21: A delegation headed by Lt-Cmdr. Khinn Maung Oo of the Naval Engineering Depot left for Singapore to attend a meeting of the Asian Yachting Federation. Other members are U Moe Myint, U Nyan Lin, and Yachting Federation Secretary U Tin Oo Maung. (WPD 6/22) Hole-in-One June 1: Soe Kyaw Niang hit a hole-in-one May 30 at the 185-yard 15th hole of the Yangon Golf Course, using a No. 7 iron (Ping Eye Two) and a Titleist 3-DT 90 ball. (WPD 6/2) Soccer Ban Lifted June 3: The ban on 14 players of the Ministry of Construction soccer team, and the manager, coach, and 16 players of the Ministry of Energy (Myanma Oil) soccer team, imposed for taking bribes in the 1985-86 First Division soccer season Opening Cup (selection Trials) and Bogyoke Aung San Shield knock-out tournament, was lifted [names]. (WPD 6/4) Olympic Athletes Honored June 15: Badges of honour sent by the International Olympics Committee will be presented to Myanmar athletes who participated in the World Olympics on June 20. Recipients will be: Weightlifting--U Zaw Weik, Tun Maung, Kyaw Yin, Chu Kee, Win Maung, Tun Kywe, Aung Gyi, Chit Mya, Mya Thein, Pe Aye, and San Myint. Track and Field--Sein Pe, Mitung Naw, Shimmway Gam, Hla Thein, Jimmy Crampton, Khin Soe, Mar Mar Min, and Khin Khin Htwe. Boxing--Myo Thant, Saw Hardy, Bithum Singh, Ba Nyein, San Hla, Stanley Majid, Ye Swe, Thein Myint, Ye Chit, Bi Aung, Than Tun, Hla Nyunt, Tin Tun, Jake Bawa, Thet Oo Lay, Win Maung, DAwlar, and Zaw Latt. Yachting--Bin Chu, Khin Pe Gyi, Han Tin, and Maung Maung Lwin. Swimming--Tin Maung Ni. Shooting--Capt. Kyaw Shein and Kyaw Aye. Soccer--Tin Aung, Maung Maung Nyunt, Sein Win, Maung Maung Tin, Tin Sein, Myo Win Nyunt, San Aye, Soe Myint, Aye Maung (1), Aye Maung (2), Myint Kyu, Ye Nyunt, Win Maung, Than Soe, Tin Aung Moe, Hla Htay, and Khin Maung Lay. (WPD 6/16) CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles [Cultural supplement for June 21 not received] June 7,14,21,28: Foundations of Myan mar Culture: Myanmar literature and the ten major jatakas, by Hnaphet Hla. [Cont. (98-101)] June 7,14,28: Poems (in English and Burmese). [(1) "Pakokku Literary Award (Dedicated to the Pakokku Literary Award Fund)" by Aung Soe Than. (1) "Five modes of goodness" by Naung. (2) "Taking the start" by Naung. (2) "The Moral" by Win Kywe. (4) "Let's string flowers" by Naung. (4) "The moon and she" by Min Yu Wai.] June 7,14,21,28: Nationalist Poetry, by Htila Sithu. [Cont. (13-16) Nationalist poetry since 1885.] June 7,14,21,28: Short Stories. [Cont. (19-22) "Our Mother" by Maha Shwe. Cont. (18-21) "Dar" by Min Swe. (1) Cont. "The climax" by Pe Than. (2) "Acid" by Pe Than. (4) "Fate" by Pe Than.] Book Advertised June 14: Anthology of Myanmar Literature (Vol. V). Compiled and published in the "period of the" SLORC. "A collection or literary works reorganized and compiled by Myanmar literary world.... A publication which should be kept for life by literary enthusiasts." To be distributed soon by News and Periodicals Enterprise. (WPD 6/14, etc.) School Activities and Statistics June 1: Basic Education Schools opened for the 1992-93 academic year today throughout the country. (WPD 6/2) June 10: Education Statistics: Total student population in 1991-92 was 7.4 million. There are 36,499 primary schools, 2,062 middle schools, and 858 high schools, with a total of about 270,000 teachers. In border areas, 49 primary and 2 middle schools were opened in 1991-92. A computer school, a technical school in Maubin [Ayeyarwady], and the Mandalay Institute of Technology were also opened in 1991-92. Vocational schools in "newly-established towns" are to be expanded; a handcraft school was opened in Indaing, and others are planned for Shwepyitha, Hlinthaya, and Waibagi. (WPD 6/ 11) Religious Affairs [Throughout the month, there were continued frequent articles on religious construction and repair projects, homage to Sayadaws given by high officials, etc. There were also continued mass novitiations of children as monks.] June 12: "President of Amin Hawa Waqf, His Eminence Mr Amin AS Moton (alias) Sayagyi U Mung Maung Tin's message on the occasion of EID-ul-ADHA-Day. [text]: Respected Muslim Brethren: Today is the most significant day in the history of Islam as it commemorates the supreme and unparalleled sacrificial offering of his own beloved son, Prophet Ismail by Prophet Ebrahim, the found of the holiest shrine `KAABA' in the holy city of Makkah. This historic event is recorded in the holy scriptures of other major religions also. And this great day is all the more holy for Muslims as it coincides with our Hajj (Pilgrimage) which, needless to say, is obligatory for all Muslims able to perform it. Today millions of Muslims from all over the world, inclusive of 300 Myanmar Muslim Hajis are performing their mandatory duty of pilgrimage in which they shall pray for the welfare and prosperity of themselves, their next-of-kin and their beloved country. On this auspicious occasion, let us pray to Almighty Allah that, `May Allah shower His blessings on the whole world in general and our beloved country in particular... Ameen'" (WPD 6/12) June 14: Addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the 43rd Mingala Desana and Buddhist Examination of the Young Men's Buddhist Association (YMBA), Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt "pointed out that the YMBA had existed as a traditional association for race, religion and education...[and] during British colonialists' rule... took the leading role in safeguarding race and sasana...." He went on to "say that the work for safeguarding national race is of great importance in the endeavours for promotion, perpetuation and purification of sasana. He further stated that nowadays there are some young men and women who think high [sic] of alien culture. They seem to appreciate western style of wearing clothes rather than to be proud of traditional costume.... He stressed the need for YMBA, teachers, parents and students to strive to drive out alien culture as a national duty." (WPD 6/15) June 17: A saloon car was donated to Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Bhaddanta Ananda Panditabhivamsa of Withokdaryon Bayanathi Taik in Pyay. "Altogether 13 motor vehicles have been donated to Venerable Sayadaws, it is learnt." (WPD 6/18) June 18: A saloon car (Toyota Corona) was donated to the Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Pannavamsa, State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Joint Secretary and Presiding Sayadaw of Thaton Wuntha Monastery, Monywa, by "well-wishers from Ayeyarwady Division under the aegis of the Division Law and Order Restoration Council." Higher Education June 2: Regular Training Course No. 27 of the University for Development of National Races opened at Ywathitkyi, Sagaing Division, with 30 trainees in the B.Ed. course, 50 in the junior teachership course, and 889 in the regular four-year course. (WPD 6/2) Museums and Folk Art June 5: The Museum on Rural Art opened June 1 between 61st and 62nd Streets in Mandalay. There are 12 exhibits including "farming equipment, machines for producing fabrics, furniture, various toys, musical instruments and equipment used in the Stone Age and Pyu era." (WPD 6/6) June 19: Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant told the second meeting of the Myanmar Traditional Folk Art Exhibition Leading Committee, of which he is Chairman, that "a total of 1,209 artifacts with 897 kinds of Myanmar traditional `Folk Art' have been received by the Sub-committee on collection of artifacts, and called on the public to lend or donate folk art to the Sub-committee. Preparations fo an exhibition continue. (WPD 6/20) June 28: SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt inspected the Traditonal Folk Arts Exhibition and the National Museum Construction Project. [photo] (WPD 6/29) Literary Winners Named June 6: Winners were announced in the Literary Contest on Keeping Patriotic Spirit Alive and Dynamic for 1991, with prizes of K20,000 (1st place), K17,000 (2nd), K14,000 (3rd), K12,000 (4th), K11,000 (5th), and K5,000 (consolation). They were: Collected Short Stories: First Myat-thaw-ah-hlu Hnint Achar-wit-htu-to-myar by Ko Nay (Kawlin); Second Lwe-eik-talon-nei Ywa-zin-lei by Maung Myo Sint (Myanmarsar); Third Aphay-ma-thay-mi Hnint Achar-wit-htu-to-myar by Maung Yin Hlaing (Pyinmamyaing); Fourth Pa-lway-than-lar Mway-than-lar Hnint Achar-wit-htu-to-myar by Tekkatho Nan Phyu Phyu Tun; and Fifth Doe-pyay Doe-myay Wit-htu-to-myar [no author given]. Novels: First San-da-kue-taw-dan-hma Phyat-than-taik-khat-lar-thi-lay by Thu Thein; Second Myo-chit Zar-ni-mei by Yuwadi Jinghpaw Mai; Third Yoe-pyat-taw by Maung Tamar (Pakokku). Collected Poems: First Nauk-son-tha-maing Ei Myo-chit-myar Hnint Achar-ka-byar-myar by Win Nwe (Thittaw); Second Ahnit-la-yar-hmar-pwint-thaw Pan-kabyar-myar by Tekkatho Phone Wai; Third Pei-tin-than Kabyar-myar by Aye Ngwe; Fourth Yoe-ma-myay Hnint Myit-aye-yar-yay-kyi Kabyar-myar by Kyaukpadaung (Soe Myint); Fifth Myo-chit-zar-ti-man Kabyar-myar by Nyaungkhashay Hmaing Wai; and three consolation prizes. Treatises: First Nei-che Ingaleik Taw-hlan-yay-gaung-saung Wuntho Sawbwa U Aung Myat by Maung Kyaw Shin; Second Doe-chit-thi Doe Naing-Ngan-daw by Dr. Kyaw Sein; Third Zar-ti-ah-man Zwe-than-than by Thihabala Kanbawza Khin Maung; Fourth Nei-che-tun-hlan Thu-kyun-ma-khan by Myat Myo Myint; and Fifth Myanma Myo-chit-seik Pon-yeik-myar by Nyunt Han (Kyutaw). (WPD 6/7, photos 6/8) Books Donated to IPRD Library June 19: U Ba Maung (Dawei Taik) and Saya U Sein Win (Author Maung Nay La) donated 400 fiction and non-fiction books to the Information and Public Relations Library (IPRD) on Pansodan Street, Yangon. Well-wishers are urged to donate books to the IPRD head office or to Township Zone or Township offices. [There have been other articles on donations of books to the new IPRD libraries-HCMacD.] (WPD 6/20) English-language TV June 29: "The Myanma Television will telecast local news in English beginning tomorrow in addition to its regular programmes. The new programme will be telecast every evening after the international news. (WPD 6/30) MISCELLANEOUS Crime News [Except for narcotics offenses; culprits, with names and addresses, generally included in WPD story, but we mention them only when there is special reason to.-HCMacD.] June 14: Defense Services Intelligence (DSI) exposed a con-man who swindled Pyinmana villagers out of K64,000 by claiming that a flashlight with red paper hidden in a temple was a huge precious ruby. (WPD 6/14) June 15: Authorities seized quantities of counterfeit Indian 100-rupee notes from a passenger on the Kan Shin arriving at the Malin village jetty, Homalin Twp., on May 15. The passenger said he had bought them from Naga nationals in Hkamti on May 13 [photos of notes]. (WPD 6/16) June 19: Authorities in Kani Twp. [Sagaing] from May 1-15 seized 120 tons of illegal logs, including 35 tons of teak timber, poles and planks, 21 tons of hard timber, poles and planks, and 56 tons of Inn timber, poles and planks. (WPD 6/20) Anti-Narcotics Activities June 2: 164 litres of phensedyl was seized May 1 from 14 traffickers near Laing Lwe village, Tiddim [Chin]. (WPD 6/3) June 4: Mandalay police on May 8 seized 42.6 kilos of opium from a three-wheeler taxi near the Hoping bus terminal. (WPD 6/5) June 5: The Monywa anti-drug squad seized 139 bottles of phensedyl. (WPD 6/6) June 6: SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo, who is Vice-Chairman of the Work Committee for the Development of Border Areas and National Races, accompanied by other high officials, diplomats [Ambassadors of China, Japan, Australia, Thailand, Laos, and Korea), Military attaches, UN officials, and journalists, flew to Lashio June 5, and then went on by helicopter to Nawee in Hopang Twp., Wa Region, where they were welcomed by military officials and Wa leader U Kyauk Nyi Hlaing. Following lengthy expositions of previous destruction of poppy fields, narcotics, and paraphernalia in the region, the visitors watched the burning of 56 kilos of heroin, 163 kilos of opium, 66 litres of acetic anhydride, and other narcotics processing chemicals and equipment [detailed]. The party then returned to Lashio, where they spent the night and visited construction activities before returning to Yangon. (WPD 6/7) June 9: An anti-drug squad seized 20 bottles of phensedyl in Theintaw, Buthidaung Twp. [Rakhine]. (WPD 6/ 10) June 10: The Kale anti-drug squad on May 18 seized 1,425 bottles of phensedyl near Thaphanaing village. The Monywa police on May 25 seized 75 bottles of phensedyl at Monywa Jetty. (WPD 6/11) June 11: The Mandalay railway police on May 24 seized 11.1 kilos of raw opium from a train leaving for Myitkyina. The Kale anti-drug squad on seized 1.8 kilos of opium in Tamu. (WPD 6/12) June 12: The Myitkyina anti-drug squad on May 27 seized 0.4 kilo of heroin in Mogaung. The Waingmaw anti-drug squad seized 1.6 kilos of opium in Laungkoat village. (WPD 6/ 13) June 13: The Monywa police on June 1 seized 225 bottles of phensedyl from a ferry at Monywa jetty. (WPD 6/14) June 18: The Myeik anti-drug squad on June 14 seized 30 grams of heroin. (WPD 6/19) June 19: A Kengtung regional battalion [Shan] on June 8 seized 3.4 kilos of heroin after stopping a motor-cycle ridden by Sai Inn and Sai San. "However Sai Sam who was riding the motor-cycle roared off suddenly and left Sai Inn." (WPD 6/ 20) June 21: A Tatmadaw column on June 3 seized 10.5 viss of opium in Kengtung Twp. [Shan], as well as arms and ammunition. (WPD 6/22) June 22: A Tatmadaw column on June 11 seized 32 viss of opium in Kengtung Twp. [Shan]. Three traffickers were arrested and four "managed to escape." (WPD 6/23) June 25: The Yangon anti-drug squad on June 19 seized 0.6 kilos of heroin in Mingala Taungnyunt Twp. (WPD 6/26) June 25: In the five-month period ending May 31, 1992, the Tatmadaw seized 125.4 kilos of opium, 7.4 kilos of heroin, and 21 litres of Phensedyl. The Police exposed 2,186 drug-related cases and took action against 2,966 persons. It seized 359.1 kilos of opium (249 cases), 71.4 kilos of heroin (803), 0.19 kilo of opium oil (13), 0.2 kilo of opium powder (2), 157.6 kilos of marijuana (261), 5,978.2 litres of Phensedyl (105), 10 TWC tablets (1), and 530 Chinese cough tablets (1). 716 cases of failing to register, and 35 other cases, were filed. The Customs Department seized 1.4 kilos of heroin and 38 litres of Phensedyl. During May, the Tatmadaw seized 94.1 kilos of opium, 2.1 kilos of heroin, and 21 litres of Phensedyl. The Police seized 104.5 kilos of opium (49 cases), 7.4 kilos of heroin (190), 0.03 kilo of opium oil (5), 9.4 kilos of marijuana (42 cases), and 5,226.3 litres of Phensedyl (16). Cases were filed in 178 cases of failure to register and 10 other drug-related cases; in all 700 people were arrested in 490 cases. (WPD 6/26) June 25: Supreme Court Justice U Kyaw Tint on June 24 rejected the appeal of one Maung Aye Lwin, sentenced by the Yangon Division Court to 10 years' imprisonment and a K50,000 fine (with an additional 3 years if he does not pay the fine) for drug trafficking, under Section 6-A(b) of the Narcotic Drugs Law of 1974. The Yangon anti-drug squad on Dec. 16, 1990, arrested Maung Aye Lwin for possession of 1.02 grammes of marajuana found on the ground near his house; he admitted possession and led the police to an additional 30.5 grammes of marijuana. Police then found 816 grammes of leaves, presumed to be marijuana, hidden on the roof. Justice U Kyaw Tint, in his decision, said the Supreme Court "had no reason to interfere with the lower court's decision." (WPD 6/27) June 27: The Mupun police on June 22 seized 6.5 kilos of raw opium in Mawlamyine. (WPD 6/28) June 28: A Tatmadaw column on June 14 seized 23 viss of "ownerless" opium and a hand grenade in Monghsat Twp. [Shan] (WPD 6/29) June 29: Kale DDI and police on June 22-23 seized 430 bottles of phensedyl in Kale and in Natchaung village. (WPD 6/30) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are obituaries in Burmese as well.] May 31: Daw Nwe Nwe Yi, (BB,BL), Mawlamyine, widow of U Kyaw Nyein, died in Yangon, aged 73. (WPD 6/1) June 2: Daw Khin Aye, mother of Daw Khin Nyunt Nyunt (Dr. U Ko Ko, WHO Regional Director, SEARO, New Delhi), died in Pakokku. [Condolence message] (WPD 6/5) June 4: State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Bhaddanta Thumati Maha Thera, Leading Nayaka of Maha Thamayarama Kyaungtaik, Chaungphyu village, Ngaphe Twp. [Magway], vassa 58, died in Magway, aged 77. (WPD 6/5) June 4: Mr. Oscar Day (a) U Maung Maung, Retired Chief Engineer, Myanma Five Star Line, Chief Engineer, M.V. "Ocean Competence," Wing Tak Co., Hong Kong, husband of Maureen, died in Singapore, aged 59. (WPD 6/ 6) June 4: Mr. Basil White, (De La Salle), husband of Catherine Daw Kyin, died in Yangon, aged 79. [Christian] (WPD 6/6) June 4: Captain Khin Maung Cho, (Retd. Myanmar Navy) (Desmond Cho), husband of Daw Mya Mya Win (Jean), died in Yangon, aged 69. [Christian] (WPD 6/6) June 5: Maung Win Aung (a) Bo Bo, 2nd Officer, M.V. Petro Avance (Singapore), died on board at Omaezaki, Japan, aged 24. (WPD 6/11) June 9: Daw Tial Zing (Than Tlang), died, aged 72. [most of text in Burmese] (WPD 6/25) June 11: Rev. Saw Harold Porwy, husband of the late Naw Rita, died in Pathein, aged 79. [Baptist] (WPD 6/12) June 15: Mr. Anthony Bernard, PWI (Retd.), Myanmar Railways, husband of Christine, died in Yangon, aged 62. [Christian] (WPD 6/16) June 15: Ko Tin Myint (a) Brian Monteiro, died in Yangon, aged 32. [Christian] (WPD 6/17) June 15: Agnes, mother of Rev. Father Abraham U Tin Soe, Parish Priest of Toungoo, died [in Toungoo?], aged 75. [Christian] (WPD 6/ 25) June 16: Mrs. Edith Maud Oppenheimer, wife of the late Charles J. Oppenheimer, died in Yangon, aged 79. [Christian] (WPD 6/17) June 19: U George (Mr. George Willison, Jr.), Retd. Mining Engineer, Heinda Mine Project (Anglo-Burma Tin Co.), Dawei, husband of Daw Rosie, died in Yangon, aged 75. [Christian] (WPD 6/21) June 20: Mr. B. Mazumdar (Dalim), husband of Mrs. Meera Mazumdar, died in Yangon, aged 62. [Hindu] (WPD 6/24) June 21: Daw Saw Aye (Mudon-Mawlamyine), widow of U Mya Nyein, died in Yangon, aged 74. (WPD 6/23) [June 22: Prof. John Musgrave, distinguished Burma scholar and bibliographer, for many years a teacher at Yale University and at the University of Michigan, and a founding trustee of the Burma Studies Foundation, died at his home in Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA. (Private communication to the Editor)] June 23: Naw Violet, wife of U Saw Aung, died in Yangon, aged 73. [Christian] (WPD 6/25) Toad Swallows Snake June 5: "A rare incident in which a toad swallowed a snake took place in Padauk Ward of the battalion family quarters in Mandalay Nanmyo at about 9.30 am on 27 May. A snake, more than one and a half feet in length and three-fourths of an inch in girth, fell off a tamarind tree onto a spot on a road-side where a toad snapped at it and gradually swallowed it. The news got about in no time as a group of children rallied round the spot to watch the incident. Senior Reporter U Ni Ni of Myanma News Agency (Internal) (Mandalay branch office) took a snapshot of the incident." [photo] (WPD 6/6) Rakhine Storm Damage June 8: Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint, Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha, and other officials toured storm-affected areas of Rakhine State on June 5-7, visiting the Taungup, Ramree, and Manaung areas. Relief goods are being distributed. Minister Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint told relief workers that "relief goods included men's and women's longyis, cloth, blankets and cooking utensils. He also assured them that cement bags would be made available as soon as possible, and monetary assistance at the rate of K500 for houses totally destroyed and K250 for houses in some of the villages would be provided." (WPD 6/9) Unlawful Construction Banned June 14: House owners in Yangon have, without permits from the YCDC Engineering Department (Building) "have completed constructing houses, adding lofts to them, repairing and expanding them on their own arrangements." They will hereafter "be fined ten times the value of the original fines." Payment of fines does not exempt owners from obtaining permits. Those "who are building houses" are to contact the YCDC not later than July 15. (WPD 6/15) Earthquake June 15: An earthquake of strong intensity (Richter 6.6) was recorded at 09:20:18 local time, with epicenter about 50 miles N of Katha. (WPD 6/16) Falam Centenary June 20: The Centenary of Falam, Chin State, was celebrated by 5,000 people on May 5, at the Hraugthio Sports Ground, with "clipping a ribbon and firing flint-locks." A centenary song was sung, talks on town history given, and gifts presented to 31 aged people. "Festivities on 5, 6 and 7 May included traditional dances of local nationals, entertainments and sports competitions and also with the opening of departmental showrooms and sales shops." (WPD 6/21) Traffic Accidents June 27: There were 64 traffic accidents in Yangon in May, resulting in 20 dead and 86 injured. In April there were 62 accidents, resulting in 11 dead and 132 injured. (WPD 6/28) ----- 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 PICTURES Burma Press Summary 64, June 1992 Hugh C. MacDougall