93-01 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY From the Rangoon "Working People's Daily" Compiled for the Burma Studies Group by Hugh C. MacDougall Published by the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies, University of Illinois Volume VII, No. 1, January 1993 Table of Contents HIGHLIGHTS POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans 2 Cartoons 2 Political Articles 3 New Year Amnesty 4 Returnees from Bangladesh 4 Prisoners Released 4 Fourth Doctors Course 4 NATIONAL CONVENTION Convention Preparations 4 Convention's Opening Speech 5 First Days of Convention 12 Convention Procedures 12 Chief Justice's Speech 16 Convention Recessed to February 22 Delegates Return Home, and Come Back 23 Rumours Denounced 23 Subversives Arrested 23 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 25 New Myanmar Ambassadors 26 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 26 Advice to Myanmar Diplomats 26 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Foreign Donations 26 Myanmar Donations 26 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 26 Business Visitors 26 Academic Visitors 26 Chinese Opera Troupe 27 Health Visitors 27 Korean Buddhist Visitors 27 French Senator 27 Australian Diplomat 27 Pakistan Trade Delegation 27 Hong Kong Drug Delegation 27 Chinese Foreign Minister 27 Foreign Correspondents 27 Vatican Deputy Foreign Minister 27 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 27 Delegations to Meetings & Events 28 Buddhist Missionaries 28 Posts Minister Visits Korea 28 MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 28 Appointments Confirmed 28 Appointment of Mandalay Mayor 28 GOVERNMENT Independence Day Message 28 Independence Day Honours 30 Independence Day Greetings 31 Independence Day Ceremonies 31 Union Day Celebrations 31 New Anti-Narcotics Law 31 Implementing Notifications 36 MILITARY Insurgents Surrender 37 Insurgent Attacks 37 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 37 Construction & Other Projects 38 Inya Lake Hotel Facelift, Housing 38 Cement On Sale for Dollars 39 Private Enterprise 39 Advertisements 39 Economic Committee Meetings 40 Banking 40 Trade Fairs 40 Off-Shore Petroleum and Gas 40 More Salt Needed 41 Cellular Mobile Phones 41 Border Development Plan 41 Foreign Exchange Certificates 41 Rainfall in Yangon 43 Record Cold Snap in Yangon 43 HEALTH Health Articles 43 Health Facilities 43 Painkiller Injections Banned 43 Myanmar's Health Problems 44 SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations 44 Visiting Dutch Coach 44 Hole-in-One 44 CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles 44 Translation Course 45 University Convocation 45 Religion & Traditional Culture 45 Conversions to Buddhism 45 New Books and Magazines on Sale 45 Sarpay Beikman Manuscripts 45 MISCELLANEOUS Anti-Narcotics Activities 46 Obituaries 46 Marriage 46 Fires 46 Postage Stamps 46 Lottery Ticket Scam 46 Unsightly Logs Banned 46 Earthquakes 47 HIGHLIGHTS We initiate herewith a new feature; a brief indication of items we consider of particular importance during the month, to which will be added any other messages to readers. HCMacD. For January: -- The opening, and rapid adjournment until February, of the National Convention [full texts of speeches and other materials provided]; -- The publication [full text provided] of a new Narcotics Law, with penalties including the death sentence, replacing the basic legislation on narcotics adopted in 1974; -- The introduction of special "foreign exchange certificates" denominated in US dollars [full texts]. ------- POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans Regular Slogans: We list in each January Burma Press Summary the "slogans" that appear, either daily or repeatedly in many issues of the Working People's Daily. Changes or additions to these slogans will be noted as appropriate through the year. At the bottom of each front page is: Emergence of the State Constitution is the duty of all citizens of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. Other regular slogans are: Noble Desire Although State Law and Order Restoration Council has had to take over, due to unavoidable circumstances, the sovereign power of the State to protect the Union from disintegration and for ensuring the safety and security of the lives, homes and property of the people, it wishes to retransfer State power to the people, in whom it was initially vested, through democratic means within the shortest time possible. Therefore, the entire people are urged to give all their co-operation to ensure the rule of law and for prevalence of peace and tranquility. The Tatmadaw ----- The Tatmadaw has been sacrificing much of its blood and sweat to prevent disintegration of the Union. All nationalities of the Union are urged to give all co-operation and assistance in this great task. ----- Only when there is security and efficiency in transportation and communications would there be convenience in travel, commerce and earning of livelihood. The Tatmadaw is carrying out this duty and all nationalities of the Union are urged to give all cooperation and assistance in this great task. ----- Only when the people are able to enjoy convenient and easy livelihood would they be physically and mentally at peace. The Tatmadaw is carrying out this duty and all nationalities of the Union are urged to give all co-operation and assistance in this great task. Variable Slogans: Since August 1991, The Working People's Daily has run a changing religious slogan at the top of each front page: Jan. 1: Subhasita ca ya vaca, to speak good and unsinful words; this is the way to auspiciousness. Jan. 2-15: Matapitu-upatthanam, to serve the parents; this is the way to auspiciousness. Jan. 16-31: Puttadarassa sangaho, to support the wife and children; this is the way to auspiciousness. Cartoons Examples of political/economic cartoons: Jan. 1: Doctor to patient: "Ahem! You must understand that I am over-charging you for the treatment so that you won't dare get sick again." Jan. 2: Onlooker to family carrying many packages of food: "Going to a picnic? Where to?" Mother: "Oh no! We are taking the kid to school!" Jan. 4: Wife to husband: "You think only of dragging your feet... D'you thing you're an office clerk?" Jan. 7: First Myanmar (watching hippie with guitar): "What do you think of Myanmar stage show?" Second Myanmar: "It's O.K., except for shouting and jumping about on stage in unbecoming attire." Jan. 8: Clerk: "Wednesday!.. Come Friday!.. Come Monday!.." One Client to another: "It sounds like days he's not here." Jan. 10: First pedestrian: "Their disregard is mutual. Who?" Second pedestrian: "Drivers and jay-walkers." \\ Myanmar looking at fancy new house: "Hmn... becoming rich in no time! A clever 'wife' of course!" Jan. 12: One Myanmar to another: "My hair's turned grey since I built my house." Jan. 14: Client: "Whenever I enquire, you say that you've referred the matter to your superior.....where's your superior?" Government clerk: "Ahem! He too has gone to see his superior!" \\ Wife: "You better not talk to me rudely like bus sparemen do!" Husband: "You also should not treat me in an uncivil manner, like hospital nurses do." Jan. 15: Wife: "Gimme bazaar money!" Husband: "Your words make me feel as if molten iron has been poured into my ears!" \\ Client to sweating official: "The 'tea money' which I just handed over to you..... if you want to keep it a secret...give me a share!" Jan. 16: Taxi conductor: "come...come. one dollar per seat... one dollar per seat... oh.. oh..no... one kyat per seat... one kyat per seat..." Jan. 17: Myanmar: "You cartoonists struck at rising prices. So they came down?" Cartoonist: "No, they went even higher" \\ Husband to wife: "Summer's approaching, so is danger of fire. Do not be negligent." Jan. 18: Client to secretary (knitting): "Let's see. You got specialist award in office...for your knitting?" \\ Woman to man: "Needn't swear you're faithful. Just take a blood test to say you behaved abroad." Jan. 19: First Myanmar: "You've had to pay two or three hundred kyats for a stage show ticket?" Second Myanmar: "Oh no...a train ticket!" Jan. 20: Client to clerk: "You asked for tea money, so I gave you K 5. If it is K 100 or K 200 it isn't tea money!" Jan. 21: First Myanmar: "It's falling! It's falling! Now, it's down!" Second Myanmar: "You mean commodity prices?" First Myanmar: "No, the quality of goods!" Jan. 22: Client to clerk: "What! You'll allow me to enter the manager's office only if I give you tea-money, is that it?.... Well, the fact is that I've come to give HIM tea-money!" Jan. 23: Mother: "Isn't spending K 400 within four hours a bit to much?" Son (in trousers): "No, mum. I'm just giving encouragement to the vocalists. Aha...!" Jan. 24: Street hawker: "I buy phones out of order..." \\ Wife handing husband a gift-wrapped parcel: "Your boss hates bribery at the office. Well, presents are a different matter." Jan. 26: Shopper: "Shopping's depressing." Salesclerk: "Do you think I'm happy selling?" \\ Street vendor (with books marked K40, K50, and K60): "It is said books are a man's friends." Passerby: "Yes, a costly friend!" Jan. 27: "Inspection" man with loudspeaker in front of "Liquor Shop": "Hey, surprise check's coming! Be prepared for it." Jan. 30: Fat wife to husband: "What? you are neglecting me now, are you? Have you forgotten that I was a Beauty Queen when we got married?" Political Articles Following the pattern begun in October 1988, many issues contain 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 portion: Jan. 4: Preserving national unity for perpetuating independence, by Kyaw Zaw. [Efforts of "The Architect of Myanma Independence" to unite the nation; continued by General Ne Win in 1962 and by SLORC in 1988.] Jan. 4: Reminiscences of a 45-year-old, by Myint Sein. [Writer, born Jan. 4, 1948, tells how he has transmitted stories of independence learned from his father to his young son.] Jan. 4: For bringing about Prosperity through united strength, by Theimm Htut. [Progress requires unity.] Jan. 4: This is our nation, this is our land, by Kyaw Thura. [Patriotic essay.] Jan. 7: "Develop border regions & national races expeditiously", by Maung Swe Thant. [Implementation of SLORC Chairman's directive.] Jan. 11: All must safeguard the Union, by Shwe La Win. [Need to heed Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt's speech opening the National Convention.] Jan. 11: The Tatmadaw is a noble companion, courageous and dutiful, by Kyaw Thura. [Tatmadaw should be "allowed to participate in the national political leadership role."] Jan. 25: Hailing the 46th Anniversary Union Day [hereafter H46AUD]: We, by Kyaw Thura. [Panglong remembered.] Jan. 30: National Politics, by Maung Kyaw Hoe. ["The National Convention is not party politics; it is genuine national politics."] New Year Amnesty Jan. 1: SLORC Order No. 1/93 of January 1 provides that death sentences and sentences of over 10 years ordered by civil and military courts and tribunals between Sept. 18, 1988 and Dec. 31, 1992 are reduced as follows: (a) Death sentence to transportation for life; (b) Transportation for life to 10 years; (c) Sentences of more than 10 years to 10 years. "The commutation and remission of sentences under this Order shall not affect the period which the prisoner concerned is ordinarily entitled [sic]." (WPD 1/2) Returnees from Bangladesh Jan. 4: Myanmar Director-General U Maung Aung of Immigration and Manpower Department and U Saw Thein of Relief and Resettlement Department met in Chittagong, Bangladesh, on Dec. 30 with a delegation led by Chitagong District Commissioner Mr. Muhammad Oma Farooq; they visited local economic sites before returning to Myanmar Jan. 1. (WPD 1/5) Jan. 4: 1,145 returnees from Bangladesh were repatriated Jan. 4, bringing the total since Sept. 22 to 7,036. 409 returned in 11 boats to Ngakhura camp, and 726 returned in 4 powered boats to Kanyinchaung camp. (WPD 1/5) Jan. 7: 1,429 persons were repatriated from Bangladesh Jan. 6, bringing the total to 8,465. 532 were received at Ngakhura reception camp, 202 at Pyinphyu camp, and 695 at Kanyinchaung camp. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 9: 1,575 persons were repatriated Jan. 8, bringing the total to 10,040. 548 were received at Ngakhura reception camp, 311 at Pyinphyu camp, and 716 at Kanyinchaung camp. (WPD 1/10) Jan. 12: 2,081 persons from 472 households, "who left Myanmar illegally for Bangladesh," were repatriated by Bangladesh officials to the three reception camps, bringing the total of returnees to 12,121. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 14: 2,364 persons from 512 households were turned over by Bangladesh officials at the three reception camps, bringing the total to 14,485. \\ Bangladesh officials and journalists, led by Chittagong District Commissioner Mr. Mohammed Omar Farooq, visited Pyinbyu Reception Camp on Jan. 7 and interviewed returnees. The group included 3 journalists from BTV and 12 from Reuters, BBC, VOA, and AP, and four Bangladesh officials from the Prime Minister's Office and departments concerning relief, home affairs, and foreign affairs. They also met mosque elders and villagers at Kyauk Hlaygar Village. (WPD 1/15) Prisoners Released Jan. 9: 24 prisoners have been released after having their terms reduced under SLORC Declaration No. 11/92. Four of them were released from Kyaukphyu prison on Dec. 4 and 20 from Pathein prison today. (WPD 1/10) Fourth Doctors Course Jan. 18: Opening the No. 4 Special Refresher Course for Doctors at the Central Institute of Public Services in Hlegu Township, SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said that "Modern technologies have to be developed without disrupting traditional, cultural mores." He said that "The efforts to nurture the youths to become leaders of the future nation, to inculcate patriotism in them, to help develop right thinking, have no been gaining momentum," and this is the purpose of the special courses. 455 trainee doctors are attending the four-week course. (WPD 1/19) NATIONAL CONVENTION Convention Preparations Numerous articles at the beginning of the month described inspections of National Convention sites and facilities, publicity in honor of the Convention, meetings of the Management Committee for Convening the National Convention, etc. Before, during, and after the Convention session there were many articles reporting gifts of money from private citizens and companies to finance the Convention. Jan. 4: An Office of the Work Committee for Convening of National Convention opened at the Kyaikkasan Grounds. "Contacts can be made with U Khin Kywe, Director-General (Admin), phone Nos 58976 (office) and 33821 (residence); and U Khin Maung Myint, Director-General (Meeting), phone Nos 51494 (office) and 50265 (residence)." (WPD 1/5) Jan. 5: Delegates to the Convention, which will be held Jan. 9, began to arrive, and are being put up in hostels at the Kyaikkasan Grounds. (WPD 1/6) // Jan. 6: 324 more arrived. (WPD 1/7) // Jan. 7: The delegates were greeted by National Convention Convening Commission Chairman Religious Affairs Minister and Yangon Command HQ Commander Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. He urged them to preserve unity, and "assured them of arrangements made to attend to their health care, to make their stay here pleasant and enjoyable with facilities for sports and games including chinlon, badminton, and golf right there in the Grounds, and there would also be special shops opened there to cater to their needs." (WPD 1/8) Convention's Opening Speech Jan. 9: Opening the National Convention, Convening Chairman Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt said [text]: Esteemed delegates and distinguished guests. While expressing my best wishes for the physical and mental well-being of all the respected delegates attending the National Convention, I further wish that you would all be able to work together for the smooth and successful conduct from beginning to end of the National Convention which commences today. The National Convention which begins today is full of extremely significant and profound special characteristics. In establishing a new State while keeping in mind the enduring perpetuity of the future of the nation and the promotion of peaceful and prospersous development of the national peoples, this National Convention is to carry out the necessary discussions of the principles and ideals which may be likened to the basic foundations for success in our endeavour. The basic principles which are arrived at, at this National Convention are to be utilized as guidelines in drawing up the State Constitution. That is why, in accord with the proverb that "a good beginning presages a successful conclusion," it is immensely important for this Convention to be smooth and successful. The smooth success of the National Convention depends upon all the delegates including us. Work with mutual patience, tolerance, cetana and magnanimity All of us must keep foremost in our minds the success of this Convention. If we keep this in mind and work together with mutual patience, tolerance, cetana and magnanimity among individuals and groups, this National Convention will achieve positive success. But if on the other hand, we allow cliquism and sectarianism, ideological bias, narrowness of views and ideas based on suspicion and prejudice as well as being contrary for its own sake to intrude, this National Convention is not likely to achieve success. All the people in the entire country without exception are looking forward to the success of the National Convention. It is for this reason that the people are waiting with great expectation for auspicious news that the National Convention is being conducted smoothly by all those involved with mutual understanding, compassion and collective efforts. The truth is, the National Convention Convening Commission resolutely holds that the foremost objective of the National Convention is to create by all possible means the best rerequisites for the welfare of the nation and its people. We expect that all the respected delegates too will have the same conviction. At crossroads As the distinguished delegates are well aware, our Myanmar Naing-Ngan is currently at the crossroads. One leads to deterioration of the Union to ultimate disintegration; degradation of national unity to ultimate disintegration; and from our national sovereign integrity being threatened and endangered to the ultimate loss of independence. The other leads to the consolidation of all the national races of the Union; even as we are able to establish a strong and enduring Union amidst the family of the world's nations, all the Union nationalities must have the highest possible degree of fraternal spirit as of the same flesh and blood and with this spirit, we shall defend and protect the Union, we shall also develop it to achieve peace and prosperity, and all the Union nationalities shall also equitably share the benefits with accure from the exploitation of the natural and other resources of the motherland. Along this road lies practical achievement and success in establishing the Myanmar society imbued with the right preconditions for the burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality. Hence, now that we are at the crossroads today, it is extremely important that we be able to avoid the wrong road and be able to follow the right one. There is a well-known Myanmar saying which stresses the importance of a good beginning; it says "Marriage, building a pagoda and tattooing are three activities in which corrections are difficult to make once an error has been made". In the same way, we can say that the framing and the emergence of the State Constitution is, from the point of view of the nation which includes the entire human society, a most delicate and arduous task of the greatest importance which will not tolerate any kind of error. Whereas it may perhaps be relatively easy to correct one person's error, any defect or weakness in the State Constitution will result in great harm and loss to the entire nation and its people. We have all witnessed how our country became destabilized and national unity became weakened due to the defects of the 1947 Constitution and also because the 1974 Constitution became unacceptable to the people as a result of changing conditions. Convention plays crucial preparatory role The national responsibility which we are facing today is the framing of an enduring Constitution. Though the Constitution is not to be drawn up at this National Convention, the basic principles which are to be discussed, co-ordinated and affirmed at this Convention will form the basis for further activities to draw up an equitable and enduring Constitution. This being so, the present Convention plays a crucial preparatory role in the endeavours for framing the Constitution. That is why I have been stressing the need for a good beginning as being essential to ensure a successful conclusion. Distinguished delegates, The principal duty of the National Convention which begins today is to discuss, co-ordinate and present matters according to six objectives for the formulation of a firm State Constitution as stipulated in the State Law and Order Restoration Council Order No 13/92. Six objectives The six are: (a) Non-disintegration of the Union; (b) Non-disintegration of national solidarity; (c) Perpetuation of sovereignty; (d) For a genuine multiparty democracy system to flourish; (e) For the further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worthy values such as justice, liberty and equality; and (f) For the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State. As all the distinguished delegates have already realized, our country's condition today is extremely delicate. If we look at the international situation, we can see practically every day the sad spectacle of some 'union' nations breaking up and conflicts arising among their own brethren and fraternal companions and thereby undergoing much suffering. With such bitter lessons being shown right in front of our eyes, it becomes imperative for us to discuss in utter seriousness how we all will prevent our Union from disintegration. Mutually show full metta and cetana For ensuring non-disintegration of national solidarity we must endeavour, while keeping in mind the need for all national brethren to mutually show the full measure of genuine metta and cetana (goodwill and magnanimity) towards one another; to show mutual love and respect; for nationalities to be equal before the law; and for genuine representatives to be elected in the regions of the respective nationalities for the burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality. This is also the time for all of us to firmly resolve and vow to forever live together in unity and solidarity keeping firmly in view the perpetuation of the Union. Keeping foremost in mind the perpetuation of national sovereignty, all the nationalities of the Union need to invigorate their sense of patriotism and abhorrence of servitude, and also strengthen their spirit of heroic heritage so as to be able to overcome all varieties of internal and external dangers which confront the nation. Democratic rights linked with responsibilities If I am to explain a bit, regarding the objective "for a genuine multiparty democracy to flourish" as stated in the State Law and Order Restoration Council Order No 13/92, it is to practise democracy in a way which suits our Myanmar society. The most fundamental requirement in making use of democratic rights is the maintenance and observance of the law. Hence, the practice of democracy in our country ought to be tempered with full cognizance of our traditional culture, values and ideas which are part and parcel of our society. In order to be worthy of democratic rights, it will be necessary to stipulate the right preconditions for the fulfilment of duties and responsibilities as becoming of good citizens such as that of obedience of laws, rules and regulations, dutifulness, truthfulness, honesty, and integrity. It may perhaps be necessary to link democratic rights with duties and responsibilities. In considering the basic principles for framing the State Constitution it is important to make sure that the spirit and essence as well as the substance of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality, are included. We must ponder and discuss and lay down such basic principles as those which can bring about the emergence of a State structure, legislative system, administrative system, and judiciary system which will satisfy the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality. Tatmadaw's participation in national political leadership role In addition to this, the distinguished delegates must also consider in all seriousness the matter of the Tatmadaw being able to participate in the national political leadership role in the future State in accordance with Paragraph 4, Sub-paragraph B(6) of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Order No 13/92. Everyone knows how the Tatmadaw undertook great hardships and suffered countless sacrifices in the anti-imperialist and anti-fascist struggles to achieve the independence of the Union. In the same way, soon after independence was regained at a time when the Union was in its infancy and the storm of civil strife was at its height during the conditions of 1949, the Tatmadaw remained loyal and dutifully faced and overcame all kinds of insurgent terrorists. Hand in hand with the people, the Tatmadaw sacrificed tens of thousands of lives in defending the country against the danger of disintegration, against the danger of once more losing national independence, against the danger posed by such talk that the country was just a finger's breadth away from the abyss, and against the dangers posed by the conditions in which the term "Yangon Government" was used in ridicule. In other words, it was the Tatmadaw which in 1949 prevented the disintegration of the Union. Ten years later in 1958, the parties in power split and because of it national unity was destabilized. At that time, efforts were even made by the pocket paramilitary forces of the various political leaders to directly confront the Tatmadaw. It was then that the trouble began according to the vicious script of "Myriad difficulties and multifarious arms." It was at that time when there were urban battles and the worst conditions prevailed with urban and rural fightings [sic] breaking out that the Tatmadaw was able to protect the Union in time. In other words, it was the Tatmadaw which in 1958 was able to timely prevent the disintegration of the Union and loss of sovereignty. Away from the road to disintegratio In 1962, it was the Tatmadaw which was again able to timely save the situation when the Union was on the brink of ruin and there were dissatisfactions, suspicions and loss of solidarity among the nationalities. In other words, it was the Tatmadaw which in 1962 was able to turn the Union away from the road to disintegration. During the disturbances of 1988, people who did not want the one-party system staged demonstrations. At about the same time, chaos and anarchy reigned in the country as a result of the vicious machinations of those opportunists who wished to "lay down their mats when the pwe panicked". It was because of such deterioration of conditions which may result in the disintegration of the Union and potential loss of sovereignty that the Tatmadaw, just in time, assumed responsibilities. That is why it will be necessary to work hand in hand with the Tatmadaw for the peace and tranquillity of the future State because the Tatmadaw has had a long tradition and heritage of having confronted and overcome all dangers which had threatened the nation and the people and in so doing, has sacrificed many lives. The international situation as well as the domestic, political, economic, social and military situations are constantly changing. Under such fluctuating conditions it is timely to bestow appropriate responsibilities to the Tatmadaw so that it will be able to actively participate in the national political leadership role of the future State and thereby be able to provide timely protection whenever the need arises. To put it frankly, the maintenance of national stability, peace and tranquillity without the participation of the Tatmadaw is extremely risky and dangerous and it will not be at all easy at a time when internal and external threats, interferences and dangers are confronting the nation. Tatmadaw's cetana ought to be understood That is why the Tatmadaw's cetana (goodwill) in assuming suitable responsibilities to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State ought to be understood and appreciated while the pure and selfless goodwill of the Tatmadaw upon the nation and the people ought to be also well understood and appreciated. Incidentally, I wish to say a few words about the nobility and selflessness of the Tatmadaw's goodwill. In the entire history of the Tatmadaw, there has never been any intention, at any instance, of holding on to State power with covetousness. The long history of the Tatmadaw from its founding on 26 December 1941 as the BIA (Burma Independence Army) to this very day, stands witness to this fact. The Tatmadaw fully respects the values of genuine democracy which the people wish for. It wishes for and looks forward to the effectiveness and beneficial emergence of genuine democratic practice. The Tatmadaw is a national force which permanently holds in high esteem the objectives of national welfare and also always maintains the tradition of protecting and defending the lives, properties and wealth of all the national peoples. Majority of the people fully understood The majority of the Myanmar people fully understand that the multiparty parliamentary democracy system has been unable to resolve the numerous and major problems of national unity, economic administration and social matters, from the time the Myanmar Naing-Ngan became independent to this day. On the other hand, the Tatmadaw on its part has had to confront and overcome, one after another, the various problems regarding national affairs which had arisen since the regaining of independence. Among the many problems, the danger of national disintegration and the compromise or sovereign integrity have also occurred repeatedly. In this way the Tatmadaw has accumulated a lot of experience and expertise in undertaking the task of resolving major national issues which involve the survival of the nation itself. That is why the practical emergence of a genuine democratic system may be more practically effective if the foresight, experience and expertise of the Tatmadaw that can be co-opted in various fields of endeavour of the future new State. Whether under contemporary conditions or according to the lessons of history, the people wholeheartedly believe that only the Tatmadaw can be relied upon as a force capable of keeping things under control when the country faces emergencies. Hence, it is very important for the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in such a role as to provide protection for the people's welfare in the future State. Only in this way, would there be deterrence against threats against the nation and bring to the people peace of mind for the future. Protection provided with sacrifice of many lives A reappraisal of the past experiences in the regions inhabited by the nationalities which are today the states will show to what extent conditions would have been worse if these regions have not had the benefit of the Tatmadaw's protection provided with the sacrifice of many lives, much blood and much sweat. A look back at the events of the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s will surely cause the distinguished delegates to remember how these regions were repeatedly in danger of falling into the hands of terrorist insurgents. The 40-day battle of Kunlong, the Sisiwan Tarpan battle, the Mongyang region battle, the Methawaw region battle and the battles which took place within the Kachin State are just a few examples. Hence, the stability, peace and tranquillity which prevails in those states indicative of the benefits which accrue from magnanimity, goodwill and sacrifice of the Tatmadaw. Tatmadaw enjoys people's confidence, reliance Having the foremost organization and being in the forefront in providing protection for the people in practically all the exigencies met by the Myanmar Naing-Ngan, the Tatmadaw is an organization of vast mature experience in all Myanmar matters. In establishing a new Myanmar Naing-Ngan, the Tatmadaw is the foremost organization which enjoys the confidence and reliance of the people in its ability to lead the way along the road which will be of the greatest benefit to the people. It is the national force which can ensure the realization of the Three Main National Causes and while providing greatest protection for the welfare of the people, would at the same time, help establish a genuine democratic system representing the aspirations of the people. Hence, the principle which would bestow appropriate responsibilities to the Tatmadaw so that it will be able to actively participate in the national political leadership role ought to be included in the basic principles laid down for the new Constitution, in order that the Tatmadaw which the people respect and have confidence in, wouldbe even more effective in promoting the welfare of the nation and the people according to its traditions. So that the distinguised delegates mauy not overlook an important point, I wish to speak a bit on the Tatmadaw and politics (in other words) how military and political matters are linked and how there are mutual repercussions of cause and effect. Forced to exercise right of self-defence I am sure you are aware of the saying that "war is an extension of politics". Putting it another way, it means that military matters and political matters are interconnected. The social conflicts of human society are resolved through political means. However, if we are to ask whether it is always successful for political means to resolve problems, we may find that they are not always successful. This becomes very obvious in a study of historical experiences throughout the world. The period of 45 years from 1946, the end of World War II, up to 1990 is known as the cold war period; but during this time there were known to be 125 wars in the Third World countries with about 22 million deaths. In term of costs, as much as 200 billion dollars were spent on arms in these regions. This is known from a report presented to the North-South Roundtable Conference held in Costa Rica in 1990. During this 20th Century there have been two World Wars, repeated limited wars and regional wars. This being so, valuable lessons have been gained for national leaders of perception in many countries [sic]. As for our Myanmar society, every endeavour must be made to solve matters in political ways and peaceful means. But in solving problems there have been obvious instances, in our history, when we had experienced conditions in which it had been impossible to succeed through peaceful means even though we had wanted to do so. The First Anglo-Myanmar War of 1824, the Second Anglo-Myanmar War of 1852 and the Third Anglo-Myanmar War of 1885 as well as the 1953 aggression of our territory and sovereign integrity by the "White Chinese" (KMTs) with the support and backing of a certain super power are instances; according to these lessons of history we were eventually forced to exercise the right of self-defence and fight back. Terrorists have no regard for well-being of nation If we today look at the activities and behaviours of the internal and external destructive elements and terrorist insurgents we may find similarities. As everybody already knows, even thought the State Law and Order Restoration Council, the Tatmadaw, suspended offensives with constructive magnanimity in the interests of national solidarity so that they may abandon the line of armed struggle and participate in the National Convention, they abused the chance and took advantage of the lull to attack Hti Mu Khi camp and Hweponlong camp of the Tatmadaw. That is why we have had to respond accordingly against these terrorists who are devoid of constructive spirit and who have no regard whatsoever for the welfare of the State, for the welfare of the Union or for the welfare of the people. However, we will always keep our hands extended in welcome so that they may participate in this Convention because they are after all, our nationalities. If there is a desire to take action for timely deterrence against all potentials for national destruction which may manifest themselves in numerous forms against the future State, either from within or without the country, it may be readily realized that it would be imperative for such action to be taken in close conformity with the Tatmadaw participation in the national political leadership role. A patriotic force born with national politics Everybody knows that our Tatmadaw is not merely a salary-earning force but that we are a patriotic force which has sacrificed tens of thousands of lives while engaging in authentic national political activities such as having engaged in the anti-imperialist struggle and anti-fascist revolution and also in safeguarding national independence in the contemporary context. The Tatmadaw came into being with greatly respected politicians at its core. As an organization which came into being together with the emergence of national politics and having developed together, the Tatmadaw possesses an accumulation of immense experience and maturity in national matters. Difference between party politics and national politics Distinguished delegates, We have heard that some with constructive attitudes welcome the Tatmadaw's participation and shouldering of responsibilities in the future national political leadership role. But as is natural, there may perhaps be others whose points of view may not be as clear. To give a clearer view to such people I shall explain a bit. At this point, we will have to explain our point of view regarding the difference between party politics and national politics. Party politics involves the respective political party organizations explaining their policies, ideologies and programmes to the public and organizing them so as to gain the greatest amount of support from the electorate. It is in the nature of parties to engage themselves in party politics. On the other hand, national politics involves providing deterrence and defence against all threats and dangers which may befall the entire nation and the entire people. And if and when actual dangers befall they will be confronted, overcome and removed. Projects and programmes which will be of benefit to the entire people will be laid down and implemented. In particular, efforts will be made to achieve preconditions which can ensure the safety and perpetuity of national independence and national sovereignty. Cohesive solidarity and unity of national races will be established and preserved. All may already know that such matters as I have mentioned are not the concern of one particular party nor can any single party successful achieve [sic]. The best and the most beneficial way in national politics in the interests of the whole nation and people is to scrutinize the policies and laws and to implement beneficial programmes while working hand in hand in close contact with the representatives of the Tatmadaw which is an organization which possesses fine historical traditions, unity and capabilities. These are the activities of national politics. It is according to the saying "what cannot be achieved with the strength of a single man can be accomplished with the strength of ten thousand". Points of truth no one can deny I have so far been explaining things with frankness because I want you to have a clarity of views regarding this point. The time has now arrived to resolve to seize the opportunity provided by the National Convention to work hand in hand, in the future progress of the State, with the Tatmadaw, the force which will render sacrifices in protecting and defending the nation and its people against all dangers. In this context, the Tatmadaw should be considered a noble companion which is loyal, courageous and dutiful in carrying out its responsibilities. That is why the six objectives mentioned should be kept constantly in mind during the National Convention which begins today. The six objectives should also be the criteria in pondering the topics to be discussed. These six objectives constitute points of truth which no one can deny. As they are correct today they will continue to be correct in the future. Every effort should be made to realize the six objectives as it is clearly evident that they are much cherished and valued by all the nationalities and by all classes living within the Myanmar Naing-Ngan. No alien interference will be tolerated As all the distinguished delegates are well aware, the National Convention is purely a matter of national concern of Myanmar Naing-Ngan. This being the case, no alien interference nor influence will be tolerated. We heard before the Convention that some individuals and organizations were expressing concern as to whether they would be given sufficient time to comprehensively discuss all they have in mind. The National Convention Convening Commission is holding this Convention with great expectations and we also place great value on it. Hence, every preparation has been made to enable comprehensive discussion of all matters relevant to the Convention. Every thought has been given and every preparation made so that it will be systematically conducted with great patience and respect. All arrangements have been made at the National Convention so that proposals and discussions can be systematically made chapter-wise. The topics have been prescribed according to separate categories in panel discussions on the basis of the topics; papers are to be compiled on the basis of these respective discussions and for these papers to be presented at the general session of the main Convention to be attended by all categories of delegates. Every assistance will be provided to the delegates by the Work Committee and staff so that all the relevant activities may be carried out as smoothly as possible. Co-operate actively for success A handbook on Procedures relevant to systematic, smooth and successful conduct of the National Convention has already been distributed. I urge all the distinguished delegates to thoroughly study the handbook and to actively cooperate and carry out their respective tasks for the success of the Convention. Panel of Chairmen to be chosen Distinguished delegates, A Panel of Chairmen is to be formed to steer the proceedings. The eight categories of delegates are to choose five chairmen in each category. Together with five chairmen of the Work Committee, there will be a total of 45 in the Panel of Chairmen. They will be divided into five groups, each made up of nine Chairmen, and they will carry out their responsibilities in rotation. The panel meetings which will soon be held according to the respective categories of delegates will be selecting the respective five chairmen category-wise. I request you all to elect suitable personalities for this purpose. After having elected the chairmen there is another equally important matter to attend to. This is to discuss and designate the relevant chapters which are to be discussed at the National Convention. This will be done only afgter thorough coordination with the distinguished delegates. After having done that we will all conduct the discussions category-wise with the greatest cordiality and patience. Auspicious omen presaging peace Now that the National Convention is being held in the cool comfort of the winter season I believe that it is indeed an auspicious omen presaging peace and tranquillity for the nation's future, free from the heat of problems and atrocities. I would like to draw your attention to another auspicious coincidence of the occasion컴according to the ancient poet Maha Atula Mingyi who wrote about the present month of Pyatho beginning with "Clear skies, free of clouds; with silvery mists moist and cool...": in this work he also referred to the auspicious gathering of distinguished personalities congregating on the apron of the palace and eulogized it as a scintillating convention of hundreds of noble royalty. What this shows is that congregations of the noblest and the worthiest were held in the month of Pyatho in the old days. Now too, in accord with the ancient traditions we are holding the National Convention in the month of Pyatho. The over 1000 staff members under the National Convention Convening Commission, the Work Committee for Convening the National Convention and various sub-committees will be attending to all the needs of the distinguished delegates so that you may carry out the tasks of the Convention in peace of mind and good health while enjoying the pure and cool comfort of the wintry season. Bring greatest benefit to the nation I urge all the distinguished delegates to give particular attention to your health and to immediately tell us whenever you feel a need for medical attention. Esteemed delegates and distinguished guests, In conclusion I would like to say that noble endeavours have been made by those concerned according to their times and conditions, to achieve the best accomplishments in national politics upon the Myanmar political arena. The conferences for national solidarity such as the Naythuyein Conference and the Panglong Conference have brought benefits worthy of being documented in the annals of our history. Hence, I wish to conclude by urging one and all to participate in harmony and unity to achieve meaningful successes through the historic and significant National Convention which begins this day of 1993 so that it mauy bring the greatest possible benefit for the welfare of the nation and the national peoples. (WPD 1/10) First Days of Convention Jan. 9: The National Convention opened in the Central Meeting Hall in the compound of the President's Residence at 10:35 am, attended by many SLORC leaders and by 699 delegates out of the 702 chosen, or 99.57%. Following a speech of welcome by the National Convention Convening Committee Chairman, Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt [reported in full above], the Convention adjourned until 10 am on January 11. "The first installment of daily allowance for delegates who are attending the National Convention was disbursed at the Accounts Secion near the No 9 gate of Kyaikkasan Grounds by the Finance Sub-committee beginning this afternoon.... The first installment was for travelling allowance, daily allowance and petty cash of K300 each for the whole convening period. Seven sections were opened for the convenience of the delegates. The allowances will be paid tomorrow if not finished today. Other allowances will be paid in installments till the conclusion of the Convention." Present were journalists from many foreign media, namely Radio France International, ARD, Tokyo Shimbun, Newsweek, Kyodo News Service, Kawa Ji Ji Press, Sankei Shimbun, Fuji Television Network, Yomiuri Shimbun, Nihon Kaizai Shimbun, Mainichi, AP, NHK, TBS, AFP. Asahi Shimbun, BBC (Tokyo), TV Asahi, BB TV, NTV, and Time Magazine. In the evening the delegates were entertained with a Cultural dance show. (WPD 1/ 10) Jan. 10: The delegates were entertained with "modern music" at the Saya San Hall [photo shows guitar players in jeans]. (WPD 1/11) Convention Procedures Jan. 9: "Clarification" on procedures given by Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt following his opening speech [text]: Esteemed chairman and delegates 1. All auspiciousness attends this National Convention that should be chronicled in the history of Union of Myanmar. Delegates to the Convention are personalities from all national races and all strata in the whole of Union of Myanmar. 2. They have come here to discuss and coordinate what principles should form basis in framing a firm Constitution to serve the interests of the country and the people. It is arranged for them to hold discussions on them thoroughly. 3. Convention convening procedures issued by the Commission will be circulated to the delegates so that they can present their views and suggestions systematically. The procedures have a preamble and seven chapters. Chapter 1 contains the Convention's six objectives, namely (1) non-disintegration of the Union (2) non-disintegration of national solidarity (3) perpetuation of sovereignty (4) for a genuine multiparty democracy system to flourish (5) for the further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality (6) for the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State. 4. Chapter 2 contains types of delegates, namely delegates from political parties, delegates elected in the election, delegates of national races, delegates of peasants, delegates of workers, delegates of intelligentsia and technocrats, delegates of State service personnel and other persons who should be invited. 5. Selection and invitation have been made to involve persons from all national races and all strata of people from all over the country, in accord with submission of the organizations concerned. Delegates to the Convention 6. I will go on and clarify what the delegates should know about their responsibilities and what they can do, what they shall have and what they shall get as right. 7. These are prescribed in Paragraphs 5 and 6 of the work procedures. They are prescribed so that the delegates precisely know them. They include responsibility to respect and obey existing laws, orders and directives, and respect and comply with regulations, procedures and directives issued by the Convening Commission. The delegates are to honestly and openly present their wishes and suggestions within the framework of the objectives with aims at laying down principles to form basis in framing a firm Constitution. There may be some discussions to be kept as secret. 8. So it is prescribed as a responsibility of the delegates to keep secrets in connection with the Convention. Now I will clarify the rights of delegates. They come from all national races and all strata of people in the whole country. They include delegates from State service. They are treated as on their original duty. Moreover all delegates will get grants, daily allowances and other allowances officially. Delegates to the Convention 9. The delegates will realize the importance of this Convention for laying down principles to form basis in framing a firm Constitution. A code of conduct and rules are laid down to be followed by the delegates to ensure mutual respect and systematic proceeding of the Convention. They are: 컴 not to owe allegience to any country other than the Union of Myanmar 컴 to respect and abide by instructions of Convention chairman or delegates group chairman 컴 to conduct oneself in conformity with the integrity of a Convention delegate 컴 not to misuse the position of a Convention delegate and seek personal gain 컴 to adhere only to objective discussion at Convention meetings, to avoid attacks on personalities and organizations 컴 to salute the State Flag on entering or leaving Convention plenary meeting hall and delegates group meeting halls 컴 Men delegates are to wear jackets and collar-less shirts and women delegates are to wear long sleeves. National races may also wear their national dresses in full. Tatmadaw and People's Police personnel may also wear duty uniforms 컴 not to bring in arms, ammunition, audio recorders, video recorders and cameras into Convention plenary meeting hall and delegates group meeting halls 컴 to wear delegate badges on their left breast, and report as early as possible to the Convening Work Committee Office in case of damage or loss of badges 컴 Convention news will be released by the Convention Work Committee. So delegates are to keep news secret before they are officially released by the Work Committee 컴 not to bring food, take food or smoke in the Convention meeting hall Delegates are requested to abide by these rules. Delegates to the Convention 10. The Panel of Chairmen is necessary to supervise meetings so as to ensure systematic proceeding in Convention meetings and enable delegates to present what they wish to present in accord with the procedures. So, for forming the Panel of Chairmen, five representatives from the Convening Work Committee, ten from delegates of political parties and delegates elected at the election, five from delegates of national races, five from delegates of peasants, five from delegates of workers, five from delegates of intelligentsia and technocrats, five from delegates of State service personnel and five from invited persons are to be nominated by respective delegates groups. It is to be done so with fairness and in coordination with one another. 11. Some from the group of delegates of political parties and the group of delegates elected at the election are found to belong to the same political party. So the two groups are to get together to nominate ten persons for the Panel of Chairmen, fairly in such a way as to let one from each party get onto the Panel of Chairmen. 12. When the Convening Work Committee gets the nominations from delegates groups it will form panels of chairmen, each comprising nine members, to supervise plenary meetings of the Convention. In each Panel of Chairmen, one selected by the Convening Work Committee will act as chairman of a Convention plenary meeting whereas the remaining eight will be reserves. 13. The five persons nominated for the Panel of Chairmen by each group are to supervise meetings of that group. They are to coordinate among themselves and select one from among themselves to act as chairman, while the others will be reserves. 14. There will be ten persons nominated by the group of delegates from political parties and the group of delegates elected at the election. When the two groups hold separate meetings, each meeting will need only five on the Panel of Chairmen. So the ten nominated are to coordinate among themselves to assign five for each meeting. 15. Duties and rights of the chairman and members of the Panel of Chairmen are laid down in Paragraphs 15 and 16 of Procedures succinctly and so require no clarification. Delegates to the Convention 16. I will explain matters regarding Convention meetings as contained in Chapter 3. Convention plenary meetings will be held in this hall. Normally they will be from 10 am to 4 pm, it is intended. For delegates' convenience, there will be a 15-minute recess in the morning, about an hour's lunch break and a 15-minute tea break in the afternoon. 17. Plenary meetings are valid only with a quorum of 50 per cent attendance. Delegates are to sign attendance with Delegates Scrutiny. Only then will it be possible to know the attendance and fulfillment of quorum or not. It has been arranged to facilitate their signing in. The same applies to group meetings as well. Delegates to the Convention 18. I would now like to explain the methods of holding discussions as contained in Chapter 4. The State Law and Order Restoration Council has assigned the National Convention Convening Commission to make arrangements to enable the delegates to present their wishes and suggestions systematically at the National Convention. Accordingly it has been prescribed to enable the delegates to present their wishes and suggestions in democratic way frankly, cordially, and systematically. (WPD 1/11) 19. In the first place subject headings of basic principles on which the constitution is to be founded will have to be discussed. The Work Committee will make arrangements to enable panels of Delegates for such discussions. Members of the panels will draw up a list of subject headings they wish to discuss in their respective panels and submit the list through their respective chairmen. 20. A member, or members, of a panel may introduce the subject headings the panel has decided on unanimously. Dissenting views in a panel may be discussed only in the panel concerned. Such dissenting views will have the right to be introduced in the plenary session only after they have been discussed in the panels concerned. 21. Party representatives may separately introduce subject headings their parties might wish to be discussed. Members of panels who are also elected deputies, either on party platforms or on independent basis, may also separately introduce their party suggestions or independent suggestions. 22. Dissenting views of a member of a political party or a panel of elected deputies may separately introduce the subject headings they would like to suggest. In all such cases, such dissenting views will first have to be discussed in panels before they can be introduced in the plenary session. 23. The Work Committee will make arrangements and otherwise take necessary action to resolve differences, if any, in suggestions made by political parties and by delegates who have differing views from those of the panels. Esteemed Delegates 24. I will now continue to explain the procedure for discussion on subject headings the Convention has obtained after maximum co-ordination. The Work Committee will make suitable arrangements to enable delegates to discuss on the subject headings chosen and to present them to the plenary session. Panels will have to discuss separately in accordance with the chosen subject headings of the basic principles of the constitution. 25. The panels will then write a report on their discussions to be presented to the plenary session. Party representatives may present separate reports on discussions made within their parties. Delegates to the Convention who are also elected deputies may, if they belong to political parties, present their reports on party basis. 26. Reports on discussions are to be presented by panels. Suggestions additional to those contained in panel reports may also be submitted through the chairmen of the panels. 27. The reports shall state clearly those points on which a discussion is desired. I will now explain the objects of these reports. If a member of the panel were to be allowed to report on verbally and without any written document, some matters that panel desires to be brought out might get left out. And additionally, this will also facilitate those delegates who are not very fluent in Myanmar language, to present their viewpoints. And also, when basic principles are laid down at the time of actual drafting of the constitution, these documents will become very useful. 28. Political parties, delegate panels and delegates who desire to present separate reports, will submit a copy of their reports to the chairman of their individual panels within a time to be specified. In such submission, the name or names of delegates who are going to submit the report will have to be stated. Political parties and/or members of panels submitting dissenting views will also have to state the name of the delegate who will be making the submission. 29. The Chairmen of the panels will forward the reports received together with the names of delegates who will be submitting these reports to the body charged with preparing lists of speakers. 30. The Work Committee will convene a plenary session of the Convention on receipt of these reports and names of delegates who will be presenting them. 31. Only those whose names have thus been given will have the right to speak at the plenary session of the Convention. 32. The Work Committee will make suitable arrangments to enable panels or individual member delegates of the panels to resolve their differences with suggestions contained in such reports. Esteemed Delegates 33. I have already presented procedural matters relating to discussions to be held within panels and within plenary sessions. Delegates are urged to conduct their discussions within the framework of the six objectives and observe the following discipline: 컴 to refrain from saying anything treasonable to the State; 컴 to refrain from saying anything that might lead to disintegration of the Union, that might hurt the national unity and that might injure national sovereign independence; 컴 to refrain from saying anything that would serve the interests of organizations and individuals not functioning within the framework of Law; 컴 to refrain from saying anything that might harm national unity and impair mutual help and friendship; 컴 to refrain from saying anything blasphemous to any religion; 컴 to refrain from reviving a subject already discussed at the Convention; 컴 to refrain from saying anything extraneous to the subject under discussion; 컴 to refrain from making any personal attacks against another delegate to the Convention; 컴 to refrain from abusing the right to speak at the Convention by extolling one's own qualities and denigrating other organizations and individuals; 컴 to refrain from saying anything not originally stated in the written report; only written reports will be put on record and anything said outside of the reports will be ignored; 컴 to refrain from demonstrative walk-outs during sessions of panel discussions and sessions of whole Convention. 34. These rules are made in the interests of all delegates to the Convention and a strict observance of these rules is necessary. Esteemed Delegates 35. The National Convention, now in session, is going to be a landmark in history as I have explained earlier. It is a common practice to lay down certain prohibitions to ensure orderly conduct of business without any disruptions at such Conventions. Therefore in Chapter V of the Rules of Procedure prescribed for the Convention certain prohibitions have been stipulated in the interests of all Delegates. To detail these prohibitions, a Convention Delegate, or any other person컴 컴 shall not exert undue influence, persuade or threaten a Convention Delegate who is going to speak at the Convention; 컴 shall not interfere with a Convention Delegate in the Convention Hall, or in panel discussion chambers, or in the hostels designated for the residence of Convention Delegates or within their periphery; 컴 shall not interfere with or obstruct a Convention Delegate or a security personnel from performing his or her duties; 컴 shall not make use of any fraudulent documents or markings in ordr to deceive the Convention or a Panel of Convention Delegates; and 컴 shall not distribute any documents or papers not authorized by the Work Committee in the Convention Hall, or in panel discussion chambers, or in hostels designated for the residence of Convention Delegates or within their periphery; 컴 shall not disclose documents classified by the Work Committee as 'secret', and shall not talk about, or write, or print, or print [sic] or distribute such documents; 컴 shall not carry any arms and ammunition in the Convention Hall, or in panel discussion chambers, or in hostels designated as residence fo Convention Delegates or within their periphery; this does not apply to personnel posted on security duty. Esteemed Delegates 36. Chapter VI deals with vitiation of status of a Delegate. It needs hardly be said that all Delegates are gathered here to thoroughly discuss their opinions and present their views relating to the laying down of basic principles for drafting of a constitution. Only a regular attendance at all plenary sessions and panel discussions will enable a Delegate to keep in touch with topics being discussed at the Convention. 37. Should a Delegate fail without any reason to attend any of the sessions of the Conference, his purpose of attending the Convention will be nullified. Should any delegate be unable for any urgent personal reason to attend a session of the Convention, he or she should apply for leave of absence in a prescribed procedure through the Chairman. Esteemed Delegates 38. Chapter VII deals with miscellaneous matters. Delegates should be resident all together so that the business of the Convention would be facilitated and so that panel discussions may be held as and when required. The Management Committee, under the direction of the Convening Commission, has therefore arranged accommodations for all Delegates to lodge together. 39. I have now explained all the Rules of Procedure for the conduct of this Convention together with their objectives. I conclude my explanations with a notice that any panel of discussion or any individual Delegate may communicate in writing with the Office of the Work Committee in connection with any point in the Rules of Procedure of which they are not very clear. (WPD 1/12) Chief Justice's Speech Jan. 11: Chief Justice U Aung Toe, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee, devoted the morning session to a lecture on the contents of constitutions, and provided statistics on Myanmar's ethnic makeup [full text--except for chapter headings of foreign constitutions] : Distinguished delegates to the National Convention May you all be of good health and be blessed with tranquillity! May you also enjoy a surfeit of auspicious benefactions! I greet you all with an invocation that you may be able to exert yourselves, ever more than before, in working for the welfare of the nation! As the distinguished delegates already know, discussions are to be conducted at this National Convention for the formulation of a fundamental principles to frame a State Constitution which would be in harmony with the objective conditions and requirements of our Myanmar Naing-Ngan, with the country's natural habitat, historical background, politics, economy, social conditions as well as cultural and traditional heritage. The following objectives are to serve as guide for the discussions: 컴 Non-disintegration of the Union; 컴 Non-disintegration of National Unity; 컴 Perpetuation of sovereignty; 컴 For a genuine multiparty democracy system to flourish; 컴 For the further burgeoning of the noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality; and 컴 For the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State. No difficulties are likely to be encountered in drawing up an enduring Constitution if the fundamental principles formulated for the purpose fulfil thise six principal objectives. The discussions are to be conducted chapter-wise, including those chapters which are normally part of the constitutions of the world's nations, and more importantly, including those points which are relevant and necessary in the light of our country's special conditions. I exhort you, to make sure that these six objectives are fulfilled in the basic principles which you will discuss and lay down. Fundamental principles for framing Constitution I shall say a few words regarding the chapters which ought to be discussed in laying down the fundamental principles for framing the Constitution. First, there is a chapter on State structure. This is the most fundamental part of a constitution. In practically all the State constitutions of other countries the chapter on State structure usually comes first. The State, of course, possesses specifically defined boundaries; in other words, it refers to the territory of the State. Then we have the sovereignty of the State; referring to legislative, executive and judicial powers and how the nationals living within the State utilize these powers. We will also see in what form, structure or system the State itself is organized. Generally speaking, we may find two kinds of State structure. The first type is unitary and the second type is union or federation system. Roughly speaking, in the former system, legislative, executive and judicial powers are concentrated at the centre. In particular, legislative power is permanently exercised by the centre. As for executive and judicial powers, specified regional organizations exercise them in accordance with the laws laid down by the centre. In the union or federative system, the legislative, executive and judicial powers are shared by the centre and by the member states. In other words, it is a system in which legislative power is exercised not only by the centre but also by the member states which are empowered to make laws which are relevant to their respective regions. Executive and judicial authority may also be exercised by the member states. In a nutshell, it is a system in which the sovereign authority of the State is shared by the union and by the states which are members of the union. Hence, in discussing the State structure, we will have to deal comprehensively with the type or form, structure and system which would be most suited and therefore best, for our country. Another chapter which ought to be pondered concerns the fundamental principles of the State; some refer to it as the directive principles of State policy. These are intended for the general guidance of the State regarding policies and principles to be followed in politics, the economy, social matters, cultural matters, peasants' affairs, workers' affairs and religious rights as well as land use and exploitation of natural resources. It is found that these fundamental principles are used as general guidance in legislation, administration and in interpretation of laws. Points for discussions There would be a need to comprehensively discuss, 컴 what kind of rights and duties should be given to the citizens, 컴 what kind of guarantees should be ensured for the welfare of the peasants and workers, 컴 what kind of principles should be followed in nurturing and protecting minors, youths and the aged, 컴 what kind of provisions should be made to create the best preconditions which can ensure realization of non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of National Solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty. 컴 how to lay down firm fundamental principles regarding the enjoyment of benefits which accrue from the exploitation and use of natural resources abundant in our waters, land, forests and mountains, and 컴 what should be the economic system of the State. Hence, discussions are to be made on what kind of fundamental principles and directives, relevant to our country, ought to be prescribed in our Constitution. Regarding other chapters, it has been found that separate chapters are devoted to each of the three branches of State power, namely, legislative, executive and judicial powers; which organ will exercise the legislative power on behalf of the State, as well as how executive and judicial powers are to be divided and exercised. Legislative power Regarding the chapter on legislation, some countries use the unicameral system with a single chamber exercising legislative power. Some other countries employ the bicameral system in which two houses exercise legislative power. In those countries using the union or federation system, it can be found that the legislative power is also entrusted to the members of the union. What is to be discussed is whether there should be only one house or two houses in our country and also in what form the legislative power is to be exercised as well as whether or not judicial power should be apportioned. Executive power How executive power is to be exercised must also be discussed. In some countries, the Head of State is also the Chief Executive. In some other countries, there is a separation of duties between the Head of State and the Chief Executive. For example, the Head of State will have his duties as the President of the country while the Chief Executive is the Prime Minister who possesses full executive powers and is head of the government which administers the country. Such matters as which organ would appoint the Head of State in what way, or whether he is to be elected as well as which organ would appear, in what way, the Chief Executive, the Prime Minister, and the cabinet are prescribed. What must be discussed in detail is what kind of structure and what methods of choosing would be best suited for the conditions of our country. Judicial system The judicial system as well as the principles relevant to the administration of justice according to law must also be considered in the discussions regarding the chapter on judicial matters. In such discussions, it will be necessary to consider how the highest court of the land ought to be formed. In quite a lot of countries, it is found that the judges of the highest court of the land are appointed by Head of State with the approval of the Hluttaw (parliament). How it should be formed and how the appointments should be made must also be discussed. Similarly, the formation of the regional courts and appointments of judges should also be discussed. In addition, discussions should also be made on the jurisdiction and powers to be vested in the highest court of the land. For instance, should problems of law connected with the interpretation of the Constitution be put within the jurisdiction of the highest court of the land, or should such matters be entrusted to a separate court of law formed for the purpose and if so, with what kind of individuals should it be constituted컴these must be pondered. In addition, it should also be carefully thought out as to whether or not the highest court should be vested with jurisdiction to protect the rights of citizens and if so, how and to what extent should it be vested with appropriate powers. Attorney-General and Auditor-General Regarding the chapters on the Attorney-General and the Auditor-General, I will first talk about the former. The Attorney-General is appointed to give advice to the Government about legal matters; among other things, to advise the Government in bilateral relations and agreements with other countries, on international agreements and when the Government enters into agreements and treaties with other countries, organizations or individuals. Among his responsiblities are included scrutinizing work involved in the enactment of new laws and for the revision and amendment of existing laws; he must also advise the government on all such matters. He must also act as the legal representative of the Government in all cases involving the Government. In addition, the Attorney-General is also required to give essential supervision to ensure that everything is according to law when service organizations carry out duties on behalf of the Government. Most constitutions stipulate how the Attorney-General is to be appointed, his tenure of office and his specific responsibilities. You may have already seen that in the previous Constitutions of our country, this role has been stipulated both under the name of the Attorney-General as well as the Council of People's Attorneys. I will next deal with matters concering the Auditor-General. The Auditor-General is appointed to supervise all fiscal matters of the State, including budgetary efficiency and whether or not the money being spent by the Government departments is being beneficially used for the people. Constitutions usually stipulate how the Auditor-General is to be appointed, his tenure of office and his specific duties. You mauy have already seen that in the previous Constitutions of our country, this role has been stipulated both under the name of the Auditor-General as well as the Council of People's Inspectors. Stipulations as to the specific duties, appointments and tenure, among other things, for the Attorney-General and the Auditor-General to be included in our Constitution will also have to be discussed. Matter of local government to be discussed The matter of local government should also be discussed as a specific chapter at this Convention. Regarding this chapter, it will be necessary to discuss how regional administration may be entrusted to the respective regions in the same way as the Hluttaw (parliament) has vested the Government with executive power for administering the State. In some countries local government is carried out by elected organizations. In some other countries, local government is carried out solely by appointed personnel. There are also other countries where the work is carried out jointly by elected as well as appointed personnel. In our country, work will have to be carried out in conformity with the emerging political system. If a system of genuine democracy is to become manifestr, regional affairs will have to be carried out regional-wise and the appropriate administrative structure will have to be laid down. What must be discussed, is how the right of region administration is to be vested, how it is to be systematically carried out, and the role to be played by the appointed personnel on the basis of previous experiences and in accord with the geographical and social conditions of the regions concerned. Fundamental rights and duties of citizens In discussing the chapter on the fundamental rights and the duties of citizens, matters concerning citizenship and relevant rights, the right of all citizens to be equal before the law without discrimination, rights concerning work and livelihood, rights concerning health, rights concerning rest and recreation, rights concerning education and cultural matters, rights concerning trade and commerce, duties and responsibilities of all citizens to obey the law, as well as the duty to defend and protect the Constitution and the State and the responsibility to honour all obligations required by law to pay taxes and revenues will have to be considered. Regarding the chapter on State employees, it will be necessary to discuss what should be stipulated in the Constitution in respect of appointments, rights and responsibilities of employees, their code of conduct and the appropriate rules and regulations. Regarding the appointment of State employees and maintenance of discipline, the previous Constitutions included stipulations for the formation of a public services commission which would be concerned, among other things, with advising the Government on the appointment of staff and the maintenance of discipline. Discussions regarding our Constitution should include the matter of stipulations on the formation of an organization similar to the present Public Service Selection and Training Board which would advise the Government on the appointment of State employees, scrutinize and supervise the affairs of employees, provide protection of employees, provide training for improvement of employees' efficiency and also provide preliminary training for candidate employees before they enter work. The discussions must also include stipulations as to the organizations, rights and responsibilities and duties. Tatamdaw's participation in national political leadership role A very important chapter which should be discussed at this Convention is that of the Tatmadaw. Among the six objectives, that of "for the Tatmadaw to be able to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State" has been clearly and distinctly prescribed. The greatness of the Tatmadaw's tradition of leadership in striving for independence and in national politics stands out very distinctly. In this connection, the Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission has spoken at length in his address on the opening day of the National Convention. Hence, it should also be discussed how firm stipulations ought to be included in the Constitution for the Tatmadaw to legally participate and carry out duties in all sectors of national affairs of the State in addition to defence and security, and legislation and executive sectors so that it may actively and effectively participate in the national political leadership role of the future State. Elections The discussions on the chapter on elections should include how the legislative assembly should be elected, how the executive branch is to be elected; how other necessary organizations and individuals are to be elected, what stipulations should be included regarding those eligible to stand for election, those eligible to vote, and on what form political parties should be organized so as to be conducive to the manifestation of a genuine multiparty democracy system, which is one of the objectives; and also how they should be formed and what stipulations ought to be made regarding disqualification in election matters. Amendment In the discussions on the chapter on constitutional amendment, what should be conisdered are whether or not the constitution should be easily amended or whether it should be left in a situation where amendments can be made only with difficulty, and also what kind of provisions should be allowed to lend themselves to easy amendments and which other provisions should only be left in such a way that they cannot be amended too easily. Constitutions of other countries Distinguished delegates, I have explained so that you may allocate these chapters for discussions. If the distinguished delegates, through experience and study, would like to propose other matters, you may include them in the discussions. I wish to add that if there are chapters which ought to be excluded, you can exclude them. However, in formulating the fundamental principles to be used in framing an enduring Constitution, it is important that discussions should include all the matters relevant to the Constitution. In order to satisfy this requirement, about 150 constitutions of the countries the world over have been collected. Studying the constitutions, one can find that some of them are divided into parts while in some others the parts are sub-divided into chapters. There are also some constitutions where there are only chapters and no parts. There are also separate headings under the chapters or parts. The fact is that all countries draw up their constitutions in harmony with their conditions including their natural conditions, prevailing political atmosphere, the economy, social matters, cultural mores and traditional heritage. That is why there is a difference in the format of the various constitutions. In order to highlight this difference I will give explanations about the chapters of the constitutions of some of the countries near us. [There follow lists of the Chapter headings in the Constitutions of: Thailand Bangladesh India China Malaysia Singapore Indonesia Egypt France United States of America (including topics of principal amendments) Myanmar's 1947 Constitution Myanmar's 1974 Constitution] Distinguished delegates, It is found that the headings contained in the constitutions can be seen not only among different conuntries but also whenever another Consitution is draws in the same country. However, eaven though there may be certain variations in the usage and nomenclature, there are similarities in the concepts. Basically, such matters as State structure, fundamental principles of the State, citizenship, rights and responsibilities of the citizens, the Head of State, legislation, administration, judical matters, the Attorney-General and Auditor-General, system of election, and constitutional amendments, are common to practically all constitutions. Either under one name or another, all thee matters are found to be in one way or another, part and parcel of the constitutions of all nations. Invariably, the details of such matters are incorporated into the respective constitutions to be in harmony with the natural condition, historical experience and prevailing conditions in politics, economy, social structure, culture and traditional heritage. Myanmar's Ethnic Makeup (1992 data) According to our historical background all the Myanmar nationalities possess the same roots and racial stock; and they have lived in the various regions of Myanmar Naing-Ngan in peace and harmony. According to the data compiled by the Immigration and Manpower Department, the population of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan as of 31st March, 1992, was over 41.9 million. Data concerning the population of nationalities who exceed more than 10,000 in the various States/Divisions are as follows: In Kachin State, out of the total population of over 1.08 million. Kachin over 350,000 Lihsu " 50,000 Shan " 250,000 Bamar " 320,000, and Others " 120,000. In Kayah State, out of the total population of over 210,000. Kayah over 90,000 Kayan " 20,000 Kayin " 10,000 Shan " 30,000 Bamar " 30,000, and Others " 40,000. In Kayin State, out of the total population of over 1.26 million. Kayin over 640,000 Kayah " 10,000 Mon " 220,000 Shan " 30,000 Pa-O " 170,000, and Others " 120,000. In Chin State, out of the total population of over 420,000. Chin over 390,000 Rakhine " 10,000, and Others " 10,000. In Mon State, out of the total population of over 2.06 million. Mon over 780,000 Kayin " 260,000 Shan " 10,000 Pa-O " 60,000 Bamar " 760,000, and Other " 190,000. In Rakhine State, out of the total population of over 2.38 million. Rakhine over 1,610,000 Chin " 70,000 Bamar " 10,000, and Other " 690,000. In Shan State, out of the total population of over 4.25 million. Shan over 1,640,000 Akha " 100,000 Kokang " 70,000 Danu " 220,000 Palaung " 300,000 Lahu " 170,000 Intha " 130,000 Pa-O " 450,000 Wa " 90,000 Kachin " 100,000 Lihsu " 50,000 Kayan " 40,000 Kayin " 10,000 Bamar " 470,000, and Others " 410,000. In Sagaing Division, out of the total population of over 4.65 million. Chin over 150,000 Naga " 70,000 Shan " 180,000 Bamar " 4,190,000, and Others " 60,000. In Tanintharyi Division, out of the total population of over 1.12 million. Kayin over 70,000 Mon " 20,000 Bamar " 940,000, and Others " 90,000. In Bago Division, out of the total population of over 4.41 million. Kayin over 210,000 Chin " 30,000 Mon " 10,000 Rakhine " 10,000 Shan " 20,000 Pa-O " 20,000 Bamar " 3,920,000, and Others " 190,000. In Magway Division, out of the total population of over 3.88 million. Chin over 90,000 Bamar " 3,750,000, and Others " 40,000. In Mandalay Division, out of a total population of over 5.54 million. Lihsu over 20,000 Kayin " 10,000 Shan " 50,000 Palaung " 10,000 Bamar " 5,270,000, and Others " 180,000. In Yangon Division, out of a total population of over 4.79 million. Kayin over 230,000 Mon " 30,000 Rakhine " 50,000 Shan " 20,000 Bamar " 4,000,000, and Others " 460,000. In Ayeyarwady Division, out of a total population of over 5.84 million. Kayin over 1,190,000 Rakhine " 60,000 Bamar " 4,430,000, and Others " 160,000. Utmost caution to be taken not to disturb solidarity of nationalities It is obvious from the data that the nationalities are well-distributed in the States and Divisions and there is no one State or Division which is occupied by only one particular national race. All of them have been known to live together in the utmost cordiality like blood brothers everywhere. It is evident that everywhere, the nationalities live together in peace, harmony and solidarity. That is why in conducting these discussions to formulate the fundamental principles for the framing of the State Constitution, utmost caution should be exercised to avoid any kind of thought, speech or behaviour which may in any way disturb the firm and enduring solidarity which has been established by the nationalities on their own volition. Natural resources As everybody knows, the forests, the mountains, the rivers and the sea itself have all come to provide natural boundaries which enclose the territory of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan. And what is more, [in] the terrain within these territories, namely our forests, our mountains, our rivers and our seas and even beneath the earth and in the waters exist enormous amount of natural resources. It is incumbent upon all those who live within our country to protect and defend it so that the motherland can stand with pride, prestige and prosperity for as long as the world exists because our country is full of natural resources, so easy to cultivate, the weather so sublime, and our cultural traditions so refined; and what is more, geographically speaking, we are most strategically-placed. Distinguished delegates, It is particularly important never to forget that the solidarity of all the nationalities is, from the point of view of the nation and the people, the most fundamental prerequisite for the non-disintegration of the Union and perpetuation of national sovereignty. Hence, before discussions begin for the formulation of fundamental principles leading towards the framing of an enduring State Constitution at this National Convention, the distingushed delegates are to engage in panel discussions chapter-wise, making suggestions and proposals to their hearts' content. It is important to remember the six principal objectives when making suggestions and proposals during the discussions. It is important for suggestions and proposals not to deviate from the six objectives. The suggestions and proposals made are to be compiled and presented according to procedure explained by the Secretary of the National Convention Convening Commission at the first-day session. I would like to remind you that no time limit has been set so that the panel discussions may be carried out by the distinguished delegates to their hearts' content. I conclude by saying that when all the papers of the panel discussions have been submitted to the National Convention Convening Work Committee, the chapters proposed in the papers will be discussed and prescribed. (WPD 1/12 Convention Recessed to February Jan. 11: In the afternoon, National Convention Convening Commission Chairman Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt "clarified" the programme for the National Convention, and adjourned the Convention until February 1st to give delegates times to study and prepare for the panel discussions [full text]: Esteemed and respected delegates Discussions are to be conducted at the National Convention nowe being held so as to formulate the fundamental principles which would form the basis for framing an enduring Constitution for our motherland which all of us love and cherish. What is needed for all of us is to emphatically evaluate and submit proposals, from all points of view, on the chapters to be discussed, right from the beginning of the National Convention, in accord with the proverb that "a good beginning presages successful conclusion", as I said on the 9th of February, the opening day. This being so, it has become necessary for each and everyone of us to strive to the best of our physical and intellectual abilities for contributing the best and the most suitable proposals from the very beginning, through the middle and right up to the end of the National Convention, after taking all aspects into consideration and without losing sight of the six objectives which I have explained with utter seriousness. In so doing, chapters usually contained in the constitutions of the world's nations and those of our Myanmar Naing-Ngan's 1947 Constitution and 1974 Constitution, which have been presented in the morning session by Chairman of the National Convention Work Committee Chief Justice U Aung Toe, would serve as material for relevant discussions. Specifically, the distinguished delegates will soon be considering the proposals based on the general suggestions made by the Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee. We assume that the distinguished delegates have realized by now the magnitude of the respect which the Convening Commission and various committees have towards the National Convention itself and towards the distinguished delegates; and also realize how arrangements have been made to enable you to discuss and submit proposals, freely and extensively in a most democratic manner. I have already explained in detail the six objectives which should unswervingly serve as guide and the Chairman of the National Convention Convening Work Committee has also explained the nature of various constitutions together with the essential chapters. The distinguished delegates are to appraise the pros and cons of the variations from all possible angles. The National Convention Convening Commission realizes that the distinguished delegates must be given sufficient time for study and appropriate preparation. We also feel that the National Convention delegates representing the political parties may need time to consult their respective political parties. Hence, we have decided to adjourn the present National Convention so that all delegates including those political parties, delegates of national races, delegates of peasants, delegates of workers, delegates of intelligentsia and technocrats and delegates of State service personnel will have sufficient time for appropriate study. The interval begins tomorrow, the 12th January, 1993, and the National Convention will resume on 1st February, 1993. Arrangements will be made in proper order for the delegates to leave for their respective regions beginning 12th January and to return and attend the National Convention on time. Distinguished delegates, You have stayed together with us for a week with the mutuality of love and respect. Our National Convention Convening Commission and various committees and sub-committees feel grateful towards the distinguished delegates for your cooperation during the one-week stay. A Myanmar saying goes, "Those who take seven steps together become true companions". As we and the distinguished delegates have stretched our legs for not only seven steps, but lots of steps together, we have indeed become true companions. Hence, what I would like to express is for you, the distinguished delegates, to have a smooth and comfortable journey home and to meet again in a pleasant atmosphere on the 1st of February on which this National Convention will resume. I also wish that the distinguished delegates may, in the interval, devote to related studies to your hearts' content so as to be able to put forward good and valuable proposals for the State at the next session of the National Convention. What I would like to say in conclusion is that I cordially bid farewell with respect to the distinguished delegates and wish that we meet together again on the 1st of February, 1993. (WPD 1/12) Delegates Return Home, and Come Back Jan. 12: Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt inspected "transportation arrangements for delegates who would return home during the interval of the Convention." So far, 57 delegates have left by boat, 47 by bus, 79 by plane, and 128 by train. (WPD 1/13) // Jan. 13: 26 delegates left by 26, 25 by air, and 2 by bus. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 29: 159 delegates came back to Yangon to attend the National Convention session due to begin Feb. 1. (WPD 1/30) // Jan. 30: 246 more delegates arrived in Yangon. (WPD 1/31) Rumours Denounced Jan. 17: "The National Convention is in recess for providing sufficient time for the delegates to continue to study and make preparations through discussions within the respective political parties and among the public. There were different rumours about the interval of the National Convention. There was no hitch at the National Convention. This was stated by Chairman of Yangon Division Law and Order Restoration Council Commander of Yangon Command HQ Maj-Gen Myo Nyunt during his inspection of Hlinethayar Township today." (WPD 1/18) Jan. 25: Speaking to Division authorities, Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt "said that today, rumours designed to destabilize the country were being spread. There were four kinds of people that spread rumours, he said. He singled out the four, namely; 1. those who broke the drum because they did not get a chance to play the chief actor's role/those who would like to become prominent; 2. foreign minions within the country who would like to depend upon alien nations; 3. profiteering opportunists; and 4. those with leftist tendencies bent on inciting others to be intolerant and angry. He said that he had learned members of the public were in a state of uncertainty because of rumours...." (WPD 1/26) Subversives Arrested Jan. 22: [Full text] Attempts to disrupt National Convention uncovered. 14 persons involved in distribution of propaganda leaflets to cause destabilization of peace and tranquillity exposed. Authorities concerned during this month have exposed, together with evidence, 14 persons including three leading instigators who wrote and distributed copies of an agitative propaganda leaflet with the heading "Di-mo-crat-tic Yahandaw-myar, Kyaungthar/Kyaungthu-myar Hnint Mi-ba Pyithumyar Tho Di-mo-crat-tic Ayaydawbon Tat Oo Ei Tat-hlant-than" with the aim of creating conditions disruptive to the National Convention and destabilization of peace and tranquillity in the State. Legal action is being taken against them. The three are Shwe Htoo (a) Aung Zeya [photo], 49, son of U Ba Phyu, of Nanshay Ahneiktaw Ward, North-West Township in Mandalay; Moe Kyaw Oo, 28, son of U Win Lwin, of Phontawtoe Ward, North-West Township; and Yi Yi Myint [photo], 24, daughter of U Kyaw Myint, of Zon Street, Wundan Ward, Anauk Myothit, South-East Township, Mandalay. Shwe Htoo, who took part in the leading role in the distribution of the leaflet, served as a senior assistant teacher at No 1 High School in Kyaukme, Myitnge High School and No 1 High School in Mandalay. In 1987, he was appointed as the headmaster of Holi Village Middle School in Kunlong Township and for his failure to assume the new duty, he resigned as a teacher. He instigated students suring the 1988 disturbances, and then, absconded together with 16 youths to the town of Morae in the other country. When "Myanmarpyi Di-mo-crat-tic Pyaukkyar Tat-Oo" (BDGF) was formed, he became a leading committee member together wtih Dr Aiung Kyaw Oo, Writer Kaulthan Mauriel, Artist Sit Nyein Aye. In the third week of June, 1989, he illegally entered the country following the removal of the foru leading committee members. He sought refuge in Phayagyi Kyaungtaik and Saku Kyaungtaik in Mandalay. While in hiding, he instigated youths to write anti-government leaflets. He became acquainted with Moe Kyaw Oo during the 1988 disturbances and with Yi Yi Myint at Phayagyi Kyaungtaik. He wrote and distributed anti-National Convention leaflets together with Moe Kyaw Oo and Yi Yi Myint as his hardcores. Yi Yi Myint made final transcription of the draft propaganda leaflet written by Shwe Htoo. She suffered slight head injuries while taking part in the disturbances on 8 August 1990, and was sent to Mandalay People's Hospital by the members of security units. At the hospital, she concealed her name and gave a fictitious name "Tin Mar Yi". At night, one Cho Gyi and one U Visuddha, without permission, took her from the hospital to Aungmingalar Aye Kyaung where she took her hide-out. Aungmingalar Aye Kyaung was the residence of U Tetawa, the chairman of an organization under the name of "Laybyin Layyat Thanga Thamaggi". The Ba-ka-tha (Ahtet Ba-marpyi) and Laybyin Layyat Thanga Thamaggi spread fabricated news by unleashing letters that Yi Yi Myint, Maths student at Mandalay University, had died of gunshot wounds due to the shooting of security forces. As the letter was also sent to the embassies here, fabricated news of the death of a student called Yi Yi Myint was afloat at that time. Shwe Htoo, Yi Yi Myint and party, under the name "Di-mo-crat-tic Ayaydawbon Tat-Oo" spread rumours entitled "Tat-hlant-than" among people. Their group distributed propaganda leaflets to the universities, colleges and schools, factories and offices in Yangon, Mandalay and to other cities by post, and personally distributed the leaflets in crowded public places. Effective legal action will be taken against such unscrupulous organizations which are hindering the peace and security of the State at a time when the State is striving for successfully holding the National Convention all nationalities and people from all walks of life will take part in the discussions to lay down fundamental principles for the emergence of an enduring State Constitution to be able to build up an affluent democratic State [sic]. (WPD 1/23) Jan. 25: [full text] Attempts to disrupt peace and tranquillity uncovered Legal action taken against those who wrote and distributed agitative leaflets to disrupt public peace and tranquillity The authorities concerned, at 3.30 am on 9 December 1992, found a group of persons writing agitative letters with paints on the walls of the wharf on the corner of Shwedagon Pagoda Road and Strand Road with the intention of misleading the people and they were arrested for disfiguring the beauty of the City. The three who were arrested are Nay Lin, son of U Tin Oo of Tarmway; Kyaw soe Win and Kyaw Soe Lin, sons of U Aye Myint of Dagon Myothit. According to their confession, they were asked by one Thein Tun (44), son of U Htay of Thegon Township to write agitative letters and to hang such writings in all parts of Yangon. Thein Tun is reported to be a member of one of the opposing groups illegally formed and active in Bangkok, Thailand. That their group is one which is under the opposing terrorist group led by Sein Win. It was also learnt that their group also included Naing Ko Ko, son of U Thein Win of Thingangyunn Township and Sein Myint (a) Mohammed Riduk, son of U Hla Din of Kawthoung Township. The authorities have exposed and arrested Thein Tun, Naing Ko Ko and and Sein Myint. Thein Tun and Naing Ko Ko were said to have entered Myanmar Naing-Ngan illegally in August 1992 and organized, incited innocent youths in the country. Sein Myint is said to be one who acted as courier for the illegal groups in Thailand in sending articles, letters and persons. The authorities were able to interrogate and expose this group to be the one that was not only carrying out agitative and incitement work with the intention of disrupting peace and tranquillity within the public and spreading rumours, but were also the contacts of terrorist groups. The authorities concerned are taking legal action against the six of them. Similarly, according to reports received that there were others who were trying to disrupt the peace and tranquillity in the country by writing agitative propaganda leaflets, the authorities concerned made investigations. They were able to expose U Aung Myint (57), son of U Thein Maung of South Okkalapa Township; Daw Khin Mar Aye (53), daughter of U Ba Thaung of Thingangyunn Township and Htay Myint (a) Khin Soe (37), son of U Kyi of Thingangyunn Township and seized from the printed propaganda leaflets with the heading "Democracy Lu-akhwint-yay Ahtwet Taik-pwe-win-gya" under the name of "Myanmar Naing-Ngan Lon Hsaing-ya Pyithu Alok Thama Thwaysi Nyinyut-yay Aphwe-chok" (Ma Pa La Tha) and Ba Ka Tha (Lower Burma) and arrested them on 16 December 1992. The authorities concerned are also taking action against them according to law. (WPD 1/26) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Jan. 1: Korean Ambassador Hang Kyung Kim on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 14: Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul called on Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, in the company of Mr. Chummchook Kantapichan of the office of Charoen Potphand Co. Ltd. of Thailand to discuss a meeting of poultry experts in the third week of February. (WPD 1/15) Jan. 15: Russian Ambassador Valeri Vartanovich Nazarov called on Director-General of Sports and Physical Education Department Lt-Col. Myint Tun to discuss sports cooperation. (WPD 1/16) Jan. 19: The Russian Ambassador, accompanied by Third Secretary Dr. Nikolai A. Listopadov, and Thai Ambassador Virasakdi Futrakul, called on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant. UNICEF Permanent Representative Stephen H. Umemoto called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel, and on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint. (WPD 1/20) Jan. 20: The UNICEF Representative called on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint. (WPD 1/21) Jan. 21: Chinese Ambassador Liang Feng called on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint, and delivered documents relating to the donation of 12 small generators at Shweli on Dec. 21, 1992. British Ambassador J D N Hartland-Swann called on Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, accompanied by Mr. Gavin Hewitt, Head of Department of South East Asia Department of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. (WPD 1/22) Jan. 22: UNICEF Representative Stephen H. Umemoto called on Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung. British Ambassador Julian Dana Nimmo Hartland-Swann called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 1/23) Jan. 25: Indian Ambassador G. Parthasarathy called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (WPD 1/26) Jan. 26: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 1/27) Jan. 28: Nepal Ambassador Dr. Thakkan Mallik called on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint. (WPD 1/19) New Myanmar Ambassadors Jan. 1: The Government has appointed U Phone Myint as Myanmar Ambassador to Thailand. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 6: U Khin Maung Soe presented credentials Dec. 30 in Moscow to Vice-President Aleksandr Vladimirovich Rutskoi as new Myanmar Ambassador to the Russian Federation. (WPD 1/6) Jan. 28: The Government has appointed U Aung Phone, Myanmar Ambassador to Italy, to be concurrsently Myanmar Ambassador to Greece. (WPD 1/28) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Jan. 20: The Myanmar government has approved the nomination of Mr. Khalid M. Shafi as new Pakistan Ambassador to Myanmar. Ambassador Shafi was born Oct. 13, 1938; he joined the Pakistan Foreign Service in 1972 and has served in Birmingham (1974-78), Yangon (1982-85), Riyadh (1985-88), and London (1988-93). He is married. (WPD 1/20) Advice to Myanmar Diplomats Dec. 31: Speaking to Foreign Ministry personnel, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn gyaw told them "to help rebut the unfounded allegations over matters on human rights, environmental preservation and anti-drug activities in Myanmar and let the world know the true situation." (WPD 1/1) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Foreign Donations Jan. 20: Managing Director Mr. Pang Kai Man of Value Industries Ltd (Hong Kong) donated two ambulances worth US$22,500 each to the No. 2 Military Hospital and the Myanma Red Cross. (WPD 1/21) Myanmar Donations Jan. 20: A shipment of 500 tons of rice donated by Myanmar for victims of the Indonesian earthquake has been loaded on the MV Bagan, which will sail from Yangon shortly. (WPD 1/21) FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors Jan. 9: President Mr. O. Schroeder and Secretary Mr. H. Shaepe of the International Narcotics Control Board arrived to study anti-drug activities in Myanmar. (WPD 1/10) // Jan. 10: They toured Yangon and Bago. (WPD 1/11) // Jan. 11: They met with Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (WPD 1/12) // Jan. 15: Between Jan. 12-14 they visited Kyaing Tong [Kengtung??], Tachilek, Mandalay, and Bagan Nyaung-U. (WPD 1/16) // Jan. 18: They left. (WPD 1/19) Business Visitors Jan. 5: Chairman of the Daewoo Group Mr. Woo-Choong Kim of Korea called on SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe. He also called on Minister for Industry-1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen. Kyaw Ba, Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung, and Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 1/6) Jan. 12: Assistant Director Mr. Eui Sup Byun of Pohang Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. of Korea called on Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min to discuss promotion of Myanmar iron and steel production. (WPD 1/13) Academic Visitors Jan. 2: "Dr John Badgley, curator of Cornell University of New York, called on Minister for Education Col Pe Thein at the Minister's office in the Office of Ministers yesterday. Matters on the exchange of books, microfilming palm-leaf manuscripts and Parabaiks, and the preservation of newly discovered ancient buildings and works of art were cordially discussed. The curator was accompanied by U Thaw Kaung, the librarian of the Universities Central Library here." (WPD 1/3) Jan. 12: Mme. Dinise Bernot, Professor Emeritus and Head of the Myanmar Language Department, National Institute of Oriental Languages and Culture, University of Paris, called on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein, accompanied by French Ambassador Alain Briottet, to discuss completion of the French-Myanmar Dictionary, the exchange of books, the study of the modern Myanmar language, Myanmar language teaching, and sending researchers abroad. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 21: Vice President Dr. Witaya Jeradechakul of Srinakharinwirot University in Thailand called on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein to discuss the conferring of B.Ed. (Applied Biology) and B.Ed. (Literacy Development) degrees on Myanmar students at the University. (WPD 1/22) Chinese Opera Troupe Jan. 2: The Shandong Province Beijing Opera troupe, which arrived in December, performed at the open air theatre near the palace wall in Mandalay. (WPD 1/3) // Jan. 6: The troupe returned to China. (WPD 1/7) Health Visitors Jan. 11: Dr. Odile Picart of the French Ministry of Health called on Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin to discuss anti-AIDS activities. \\ Mr. Yoshikazu Mikami of Japan, adviser to Time Magazine, also called on Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin to discuss anti-AIDS activities. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 11: Executive Director Mr. Oliver Food of Orbis Flying Hospital called on SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, Chairman of the National Health Committee. (WPD 1/12) Korean Buddhist Visitors Jan. 12: The South Korean Buddhist delegation led by Venerable Sayadaw Sung Tac Young returned home, following a meeting with Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 13: Rev. Dr. Bup Hae Kim, President of the National Unity Buddhist Central Association of Seoul, Korea, and three members of his delegation, called on Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs U Kyaw Aye. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 25: Dr. Kim Hae Koun, Prelate of Buddhist Nirvana Gana of Korea, called on Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. (WPD 1/26) // Jan. 26: The delegation left. (WPD 1/27) French Senator Jan. 18: French Senator Hubert Durand-Chastel, Senator responsible for French communities residing overseas, with his daughter Miss Anne-Marie Durand-Chastel and private secretary, visited Myanmar from Jan. 13-18; they visited Twin Taung Lake near Monywa and "made observations on production of Spirulina algae." (WPD 1/ 19) Australian Diplomat Jan. 25: Mr. Brian Babington, Director of the Foreign Affairs and Trade for ASEAN, Myanmar and Thai Offices of Australia, accompanied by Australian Ambassador Geoffrey Charles Allen, called on members of the SLORC Information Committee, to discuss "matters relating to the National Convention and economic affairs." (WPD 1/26) Pakistan Trade Delegation Jan. 26: A Pakistan trade delegation led by Mr. Ghulan Abbas Hirani, Chief Executive of M/S Galaxy Trading Co., called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. The delegation is on a 3 day visit. (WPD 1/27) Hong Kong Drug Delegation Jan. 26: Commissioner of the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department Mr. C.W.B. Oxley and Head of Marine and Land Enforcement Command Mr. Romny H.K. Tsang met with officials of the work committee headed by Joint Secretary of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Director (Enforcement) Police Col. Ngwe Soe Tun. (WPD 1/27) Chinese Foreign Minister Jan. 28: Chinese Foreign Minister Mr. Qian Qichen will pay a goodwill visit to Myanmar Feb. 1-3. (WPD 1/29) Foreign Correspondents Jan. 28: Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant met with correspondents of foreign media organizations, and "gave replies to the questions of the correspondents." (WPD 1/29) Vatican Deputy Foreign Minister Jan. 28: Msgr. Claudio Maria Celli, Deputy Foreign Minister of the Vatican, accompanied by Msgr. Phong, Under Secretary of the Propaganda of the Faith in Asia and Ambassador of the Holy See Alberto Tricario, arrived by air. (WPD 1/29) // Jan. 29: He called on Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs U Kyaw Aye, who was accompanied by Director-General of Religious Affairs Department U Arnt Maung and Director-General of the Department for Promotion and Propagation of Sasana, and on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 1/30) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Jan. 2: U Aung Soe and U Maung Maung Zin, staff officers of the Department of Agricultural Mechanization, left on a three-month WHO training course on rural water supply in India, the Philippines, and Malaysia. (WPD 1/3) Jan. 11: Lecturer U Ye Myint of the Yangon University Physics Department flew to Thailand Jan. 9 to attend a 6-month Analytical Nuclear Physics course at Chiang Mai University sponsored by IAEA. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 13: Lecturer Dr. Tin Soe of the Institute of Economics left for Chiangmai, Thailand, to attend a Jan. 15-17 Conference on Economic Marketization. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 19: A Myanmar journalist delegation, led by Deputy Director (News) U Maung Maung Nyo of the News and Periodicals Enterprise, currently visiting in Nepal, called on Nepalese Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala. (WPD 1/20) // Jan. 22: They visited Pokhara on Jan. 19 and Lumbini on Jan. 20. (WPD 1/23) // Jan. 24: The delegation returned home. The delegation included Editor U Myat Tha of Loktha Pyithu Nezin, Reporter U Thein Win of the Kyemon Daily, Editor U Saw Po Sha of the Information and Public Relations Department, Editor U Nyunt Han of the Printing and Publishing Enterprise, Executive Editor U Maung Maung San of Myawady Ltd. of the Ministry of Defence, U Kyi Lwin (Cartoonist Ngwe Kyi) and Editor U Swe Thant Ko of the Loktha Pyithu Nezin. (WPD 1/25) Delegations to Meetings & Events Jan. 12: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw left for Paris to attend the signing ceremony of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and use of Chemical Weapons and their Destruction, to take place Jan. 13-16. He was accompanied by Deputy Director U Denzil Abel, Assistant Director Daw Maw Ohn Nyunt We, and personal staff officer Daw Moe Thuzar. (WPD 1/13) // Jan. 21: The Minister signed the Convention on behalf of Myanmar on Jan. 14. On Jan. 19, he addressed the Conference on Disarmament in Geneva. En route home, he is visiting Bangkok, Jan. 21-24, as a guest of Thai Foreign Minister Squadron Leader Prasong Soonsiri. (WPD 1/23) // Jan. 24: He returned home, and reported to journalists on his trip, noting that in Thailand he signed an Agreement on Establishment of a Joint Commission for Bilateral Co-operation between Myanmar and Thailand. (WPD 1/25) Jan. 21: A 35-member cultural troupe led by Director U Tin Aung of the Department of Fine Arts left for Bangkok to attend an international cultural dance festival. (WPD 1/22) // Jan. 25: The troupe returned, having performed in Bangkok on Jan. 23 and 24. (WPD 1/26) Jan. 30: Managing Director U Thein Tun and General Manager U Hla Kyi of Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading left for Bangkok to attend a Board of Directors Meeting of Myanmar Rice Engineering Co. Ltd., a joint venture with Rice Engineering Supply Co. of Bangkok. (WPD 1/31) Buddhist Missionaries Jan. 21: Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika Konlon Sayadaw Bhaddanta Tejaniya of Galon Taungkyoung, Pindaya [Shan], left for India and Singapore, via Bangkok, on a missionary visit. \\ Joint Secretary of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Agga Maha Pandita Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vannasiri returned from India, where he had been on a missionary visit since Jan. 8. (WPD 1/22) Posts Minister Visits Korea Jan. 25: Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha left for Korea to "study telecommunications networks and production of equipment in ROK." He was accompanied by Managing Director U Htay Aung of Myanma Posts and Telecommunications, Chief Engineer U Sein Win, Deputy Chief Engineer U Tha Oo, and personal secretary U Kyaw Soe. (WPD 1/26) MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The SLORC made the following appointments, on probation: Jan. 6: U Aung Than, Director, Internal Revenue Department, to be Director-General, Revenue Appellate Tribunal Office, Ministry of Planning and Finance. (WPD 1/7) Jan. 20: U Ko Ko, Director, to be Managing Director, No. 1 Mining Enterprise, Ministry of Mines. (WPD 1/21) Jan. 28: Pro-Rector U Kyin Soe to be Rector, Yangon Institute of Technology, Ministry of Education. (WPD 1/29) Appointments Confirmed The SLORC confirmed the following appointments, after one year of probation: Jan. 20: U Win Sein as Director-General, Information and Public Relations Department, Ministry of Information. U Tin Hlaing as Managing Director, Myanma Foodstuff Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. (WPD 1/21) Appointment of Mandalay Mayor The Prime Minister appointed Lt-Col. Tun Kyi (BC/7959) as Chairman of the Mandalay City Development Committee (Mandalay Mayor), under Section 3 of the Law of Mandalay City Development. (WPD 1/23) GOVERNMENT Independence Day Message Jan. 4: On the occasion of the 45th Anniversary Independence Day Ceremony, SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe delivered the following message [text]: On this auspicious day, the Fourth of January, 1993, the 45th Anniversary of regaining of the Independence of the Union of Myanmar, I cordially and respectfully greet the people of all the national races. Among the nations of the world our Union of Myanmar had stood as a sovereign nation for thousands of years and in the 19th century, the avaricious British imperialists, after waging three aggressive wars on Myanmar Naing-Ngan, colonized our nation and turned it into servitude. With high sense of patriotism, the people of all national races, with whatever weapons they could lay their hands on, fought against the British imperialists' aggression, occupation and enslavement. The patriots from among the various national races such as the Kachins, the Kayahs, the Chins, the Bamars, the Mons, the Rakhines and the Shans who had taken part in the anti-imperialist and national liberation struggles must be put on record as patriotic heroes in the annals of our history so that their names would last forever. Just as these patriotic heroes had struggled to regain national independence, there have been millions of service personnel and people including Tatmadaw members, born of the people of the national races, who have fought, sacrificing their lives, in the struggles waged and in the battles fought in defence of the national independence after regaining it so that it would not be lost again. Just as each and every independent nation in the world defends and safeguards national independence thus gained, the independent Myanmar Naing-Ngan has been defending and safeguarding our national independence and sovereignty steadfastly and resolutely. Throughout the past forty-five years, because of the multi-coloured insurgents all the people of Myanmar Naing-Ngan bitterly suffered miseries컴causing deaths, losing State-owned property, hindering development activities of the nation. The insurgencies threatened perpetuity of national independence, affected peace, tranquillity and security of the people, and this even resulted in lagging of social and economic development of the people leaving us behind world standard. The insurgents were invited many times to return to the legal fold to take part in building a peaceful, secure, prosperous nation. However, this came to nought as they could not allow their self-interest to be affected. Again at the present moment, though they are invited to be able to attend the National Convention which is to be held with the aim to consolidate national unity, their coming to the legal fold could not be achieved as they cannot abandon their self-interest. Hence, it is up to all national races to join hands with the government in striving for perpetuity of national independence, for ensuring peaceful and pleasant social life of the people and in bringing about development in all fields. It is an undeniable fact that solidarity among all national races must be built up first before practically carrying out the development tasks for the benefit of all the national races and the nation. As such, the State Law and Order Restoration Council convenes the National Convention, among the aims of which is to reforge solidarity among national races. I emphatically urge, on this auspicious 45th Anniversary of Independence Day which may be called the National Convention period, all the representatives to fully implement at the National Convention, without partisan and racist concepts, the Three Main National Causes: -- Non-disintegration of the Union; -- Non-disintegration of national solidarity; -- Consolidation and perpetuation of sovereignty. The State Law and Order Restoration Council, and together with the people, will intensively carry out tasks of national defence and construction such as: (a) the Three Main National Causes컴non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity, and ensuring consolidation and perpetuation of sovereignty; (b) prevalence of the rule of law and peace and tranquillity, smooth transportation, and easing food, clothing and shelter needs of the people; and (c) giving great attention to and safeguarding the tasks of performing various development activities for the national races. From this occasion of the 45th Anniversary of Independence Day onwards, efforts for nurturing the spirit of patriotism and nationalism should be upheld uppermost while making objective review and assessment of the changing international and domestic situations with a view to bringing about the perpetuity of the State and public wellbeing. Moreover, we must constantly be striving to keep in our minds nationalist fervour ever alive and dynamic to oppose colonialists and neo-colonialists and their minions and lackeys. Therefore, I would like to emphatically urge the public to implement with undaunted will, unyielding spirit, zeal and strength the Naitonal Objectives for the 45th Anniversary of Independence Day which are:컴 (1) For all the citizens to unitedly make efforts for the perpetuity of the State, sovereignty and integrity of the State; (2) For every citizen to make concerted efforts for the emergence of the State Constitution; and, (3) To keep patriotism and nationalist fervour ever alive. Sd. Than Shwe General Chairman State Law and Order Restoration Council (WPD 1/4) Independence Day Honours Jan. 3: As is customary, the SLORC conferred religious titles, military medals, and civilian honors in honour of Independence Day: Notification No. 1/93 conferred religious titles as follows [names given in notification]: Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru: 1 Agga Maha Pandita: 58 Sayadaws (of whom 1 from Sri Lanka, 2 from India, 1 from Austria, and 1 from America (Bhaddanta Nandabhivamsa, Dhamma Nandavihara Kyaung, San Francisco). (WPD 1/4-5) Aggamahaganthavasakapandita: 33 Sayadaws and 3 Nuns. Mahaganthavasakapandita: 97 Sayadaws and 8 Nuns. (WPD 1/5-6) Culaganthavacakapandita: 50 Sayadaws and 7 Nuns. (WPD 1/6-7) Maha Dhamma Kathika Bahujana Hitadhara: 1 Sayadaw Dhamma Kathika Bahujana Hitadhara: 8 Sayadaws Agga Maha Kammathanacariya: 3 Sayadaws (incl. 1 abroad) Mahakanmahtanacariya: 14 Sayadaws Culakanmahtanacariya: 8 Sayadaws Abhidhaja Agga Maha Sadhammajotika: 2 Sayadaws Agga Maha Sadhammajotikadhaja: 16 Sayadaws (incl. 2 abroad) Maha Sadhamajotikadhaja: 13 Sayadaws, 2 Laymen. (WPD 1/7-8) Sadhamajotikadhaja: 19 Monks, 1 Nun, 3 Laymen. Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara: 1 Layman Thiri Thudhamma Manijotadhara: 1 Layman Thiha Thudhammajotadhara: 2 Laymen Thudhamma Manijotadhara: 6 Laymen Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma Theingi: 3 Laywomen (WPD 1/8) Thiri Thudhamma Theingi: 4 Laywomen Thiha Thudhamma Theigi: 1 Laywoman Thudhamma Theingi: 6 Laywomen Notification No. 2/93 conferred military and civil titles and medals as follows [names given]: Thura title: 1 Gallantry Medal: 35 Medal for Excellent Performance in Agricultural Field of Economy: 3rd Class: 3 Medal for Excellent Performance in Industrial Field of Economy: 2nd Class: 2 3rd Class: 25 Medal for Excellent Performance in Administrative Field: 1st Class: 16 2nd Class: 11 (WPD 1/4) 3rd Class: 27 Medal for Excellent Performance in Social Field: 1st Class: 9 2nd Class: 12 3rd Class: 67 (WPD 1/5) Ye Thura Medal: 1 Ye Bala Medal: 3 Ye Thurein Medal: 2 (WPD 1/6) Notification No. 3/93 conferred Military Good Service Medals: 3,681 Notification No. 4/93 conferred Good Public Service Medals: 4,787 Notification No. 5/93 conferred Good Peoples Police Force Medals: 60 Notification No. 6/93 conferred Peoples Police Force Service Medals: 381 Notification No. 7/93 conferred: Public Service Medals: 3,712 Law and Order and Rule of Law Medals: 4,763 (WPD 1/4) The Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Services issued the Certificate of Gallantry on 47 military personnel "for their valour in discharging national defence duties." (WPD 1/4) Independence Day Greetings Jan. 4: Messages of congratulations were received from the following [in order printed]: Heads of State and Government [texts printed] [congratulations extended to the SLORC Chairman [C], Myanmar Government [G], and/or Myanmar People [P]: China [CP], India [P], Pakistan [CGP], Bhutan [CGP], Indonesia [CGP], Shri Lanka [CGP], Laos [CGP], Turkey [CP] (WPD 1/4), Netherlands [P], Mexico [CP], Australia [GP], Korea [CGP], Canada [P], United States [P] ("On behalf of all Americans, I extend best wishes and congratulations to the people of Myanmar on the forty-fifth Anniversary of the Independence of your country"), Singapore [CP], Malaysia [C], Vietnam [CP] (WPD 1/5), Thailand [CP], Bangladesh [C] (WPD 1/6), Brunei [CP], Russia [CP] (WPD 1/7), UN Secretary General, Nepal [CP], Maldives [CGP], Kuwait [C], Egypt [C] (WPD 1/8), Syria [CP], Malawi [CGP] (WPD 1/9), Philippines [C], Israel [no text], Algeria [no text] (WPD 1/11), Romania [C], Yugoslavia [CP], Albania [CP] (WPD 1/13), Cyprus [C], Libya [CP] (WPD 1/14), Cuba [CGP] (WPD 1/16), Iraq [CP] (WPD 1/17), Japan [CP], Bulgaria [P] (WPD 1/24), United Arab Emirates [CP] (WPD 1/29). Vice Presidents: Indonesia [CP]. (WPD 1/ 6) Prime Ministers: China [CG], Pakistan [CGP], Malaysia [CGP], Singapore [CP], Vietnam [CP], Bangladesh [CP] (WPD 1/6), Japan [C] (WPD 1/9), Libya (WPD 1/14), United Arab Emirates [CP] (WPD 1/29). Ambassadors and Charge d'Affairs [photographs printed]: Russia, China, Pakistan, Japan, Shri Lanka, Philippines, Bangladesh, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Nepal, Nigeria, Iraq, Korea, Egypt, New Zealand. (WPD 1/4) Foreign Ministers (to Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw): Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Vietnam, Cuba (WPD 1/7), Japan, Iran, Mexico, Yugoslavia, Brunei Darussalam, FAO (WPD 1/14) Independence Day Ceremonies Jan. 4: The flag was raised at 4:20 am, the moment of independence in 1948. Prizes were presented to youths for Independence Day Essay and Poetry Competition Winners by SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who warned them against instigations from inside and outside the country. SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe gave the traditional reception and dinner for Myanmar officials, the Dean and members of the Diplomatic Corps, military attaches, and distinguished Myanmars. [Photos: show Ambassadors or Charge d'Affaires of Germany, Korea, Israel, Bangladesh, Iraq, Yugoslavia, Indonesia, Philippines.] (WPD 1/5) Union Day Celebrations Jan. 20: The 46th Union Day has special significance, as it coincides with the National Convention, said SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. He announced the four national objectives of this year's Union Day as: (1) to keep the Union of Myanmar ever united; (2) for all brethren of the Union to live forever in peace, sharing prosperity and adversity; (3) to extend active cooperation for the emergence of an enduring Constitution; and (4) for all the nationalities of the Union to protect the Union against the internal and external dangers joining hands with the Tatmadaw. (WPD 1/21) New Anti-Narcotics Law Jan. 27: State Law and Order Restoration Council Law No. 1/93, the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Law, reads [full text]: Chapter I Title and Definition 1. This Law shall be called the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law. 2. The following expressions contained in this Law shall have the meanings given hereunder:컴 (a) Narcotic Drug means any of the following:컴 (i) poppy plant, coca plant, cannabis plant or any kind of plant which the Ministry of Health has, by notification declared to be a narcotic drug, substances and drugs derived or extracted from any such plant; (ii) drugs which the Ministry of Health has, by notification declared to be a narcotic drug, and substances containing any type of such drug; (b) Psychotropic Substance means drugs which the Ministry of Health has, by notification declared to be a psychtropic substance; (c) Production means production designed to transform poppy plant, coca plant, cannabis plant and any kind of plant which the Ministry of Health has, by notification declared to be a narcotic drug, into a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; processing, preparation and manufacture by a mixture of the substance so produced with chemicals or with any other type of substance; (d) Possession means the holding of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance by anyone on his person, in his residence, premises, vehicle/vessel and property. This expression also includes holding or causing to be held under the arrangement of such person; (e) Drug User means a person who uses a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance without permission in accordance with the law; (f) Central Body means the Central Body for the Prevention of the Danger of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances formed by the Government under this Law. Chapter II Aims 3. The aims of this Law are as follows:컴 (a) to prevent the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances, which can cause degeneration of mankind, as a national responsibility; (b) to implement the provisions of the United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances; (c) to carry out more effectively measures for imparting knowledge and education on the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and for medical treatment and rehabilitation of drug users: (d) to impose more effective penalties on offenders in respect of offences relating to narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances; (e) to co-operate with the States Parties to the United Nations Convention, international and regional organizations in respect of the prevention of the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. Chapter III Formulation of the Central Body and the Functions and Duties of the Central Body 4. The Government shall form the Central Body for the prevention of the Danger of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. 5. In forming the Central Body컴 (a) it shall consist of the Minister of the Ministry of Home Affairs as Chairman and persons from the relevant Ministry, Government departments and organizations as members; (b) the Vice-Chairman, Secretary and Joint Secretary of the Central Body shall be determined. 6. The functions and duties of the Central Body are as follows:컴 (a) laying down the policies in respect of the prevention of the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances and co-ordinating with the relevant boards of authority, Ministries and non-Governmental organizations; (b) being able to co-operate with States Parties to the United Nations Convention, international and regional organizations in respect of the prevention of the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances; (c) determining and co-ordinating as may be necessary the functions and duties of the working bodies and regional bodies in order to carry out successfully the functions and duties of the Central Body; (d) laying down and carrying out programmes in respect of reclamation of land, allotment of land, contribution of materials and aids and rendering of assistance as may be necessary, in order to carry out substitute crops cultivation and livestock breeding; (e) laying down and carrying out programmes in respect of medical treatment of drug users, imparting knowledge and educative incitement; (f) organizing by laying down plans and rendering suitable assistance in respect of rehabilitation of drug users and persons serving sentences; causing to be taught means of livelihood to enable them to resume their normal lives; (g) scrutinizing, supervising and guiding in order to ascertain whether or not the programmes laid down by the Central Body are systematic and successful; (h) destroying or causing to be destroyed narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in accordance with the stipulation; (i) directing as may be necessary to seize as exhibits immoveable property involved in an offence under this Law, money, property and benefits derived from the transfer and conversion of property involved in the offence; (j) directing the attachment and sealing of immoveable property involved in the offence, which have been seized as exhibits under this Law; directing the removal of the attachment; disposing of as may be necessary in accordance with the final order of the relevant Court in the offence prosecuted; (k) directing by passing an order responsible persons of the relevant bank and financial institutions to allow relevant persons authorized to search and seize to inspect financial records relating to an offence under this Law, to make copies thereof and to seize the same as exhibits; (l) disposing of as may be necessary ownerless narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances which have been seized as exhibits; (m) taking such measures as may be necessary for giving reward in respect to an offence against which action has been taken under this Law; with the approval of the Government; (n) reporting from time to time to the Government on the progress of the work fo prevention of the danger of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances; (o) carrying out the functions and duties as are assigned by the Government from time to time. Chapter IV Formation of Working Bodies and Regional Bodies 7. The Central Body shall form the following Working Bodies and shall determine the functions and duties thereof respectively:컴 (a) Body for Supervision of Prevention and Suppression; (b) Body for Prevention and Suppression; (c) Body for Substitute Crop Cultivation; (d) Body for Livestock Breeding; (e) Body for Medical Treatment; (f) Body for Rehabilitation; (g) Body for Imparting Knowledge to Young Students; (h) Body for Educative Incitement of the Working People; (i) Body for Disposal of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Seized; (j) Body for International Relations; (k) Other Working Bodies as may be required. 8. The Central Body shall form the following Regional Bodies and shall determine the functions and duties thereof respectively:컴 (a) State/Divisional, District, Township, Ward and Village Tract Bodies for the Prevention of the Danger of Narcotic Drugs and Psychtropic Substances; (b) Special Bodies for the Prevention and Suppression of the Danger of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances. Chapter V Registration, Medical Treatment and Cancellation of Registration of a Drug User 9. (a) A drug user shall register at the place prescribed by the Ministry of Health or at a medical centre recognized by the Government for this purpose, to take medical treatment; (b) The Ministry of Health shall lay down and carry out programmes as may be necessary in respect of medical treatment for a registered drug user; (c) A registered drug user undergoing medical treatment shall abide by the directives issued by the Ministry of Healthy. 10. Cancellation of the registration of a drug user shall be carried out in accordance with the stipulations. Chapter VI Rehabilitation 11. The Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement shall, in respect of the rehabilitation and after-care of a drug user carry out the following measures in accordance with the stipulations:컴 (a) rendering assistance and protection as may be necessary to persons undergoing medical treatment and to the families dependent on them; (b) providing for rehabilitation, teaching of means of livelihood as may be necessary, resettlement and after-care to enable persons who have undergone medical treatment to resume their normal lives; (c) conducting expertise training courses for the relevant persons in order to implement systematically and effectively work of rehabilitation of drug users. 12. The Ministry of Home Affairs shall provide for the teaching of means of livelihood as may be necessary to persons serving sentences under section 15, in accordance with the stipulations. Chapter VII Search, Arrest and Seizure of Exhibits 13. Action taken under this Law in respect of the following matters shall be done in accordance with the rules:컴 (a) search and seizure of narcotic drug, psychotropic substance, money, property and implements involved in an offence and arrest of the offender; (b) search and seizure of money, property and benefits derived from transfer, conversion and transformation of property involved in an offence; (c) inspection and making copies of financial records kept at the bank and financial institutions; (d) laboratory analysis in respect of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. 14. Notwithstanding anything contained in any existing law, responsible persons from the bank and financial institutions shall, on receipt of an order issued by the Central Body in respect of money and property involved in an offence under the Law컴 (a) permit the inspection of financial records and making copies thereof and seizure of the exhibits; (b) pending the conclusion of a case in which action is being taken, take custody of the financial records, money and property involved in the offence, in accordance with the stipulation, without returning or transferring the same to anyone. Chapter VIII Offences and Penalties 15. A drug user who fails to register at the place prescribed by the Ministry of Health or at a medical centre recognized by the Government for this purpose or who fails to abide by the directives issued by the Ministry of Health for medical treatments shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 3 years to a maximum of 5 years. 16. Whoever is guilty of any of the following acts shall, on conviction be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 10 years and may also be liable to a fine:컴 (a) cultivation of poppy plant, coca plant, cannabis plant or any kind of plant which the Ministry of Health has, by notification declared to be a narcotic drug; (b) possession, transportation, distribution and sale without permission under this Law of materials, implements and chemicals which the relevant Ministry has, by notification declared to be materials used in the production of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; (c) possession, transportation, transmission and transfer of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; (d) transfer of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance by a person who possesses the same with permission in accordance with law to a person who is not so permitted; (e) inciting, inducing, deceiving, coercing, using undue influence or any other means to cause abuse of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; (f) misappropriating, causing to disappear, destroying, removing or transferring any property which has been seized or attached under the Law. 17. A responsible person from the bank or financial institution, who is guilty of any of the following acts in respect of money, property and benefits involved in an offence under this Law shall, on conviction be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 10 years and may also be liable to a fine:컴 (a) transferring of accounts, causing to disappear, altering and amending relevant financial records so that action may not be taken against the offender; (b) refusing to allow a person authorized to search and seize in accordance with an order passed by the Central Body under section 6 sub-section (k) to inspect the relevant financial records, make copies thereof and seize the exhibits; (c) returning and transferring without the permission of the Central Body or the relevant Court financial records relating to the offence and money, property and benefits seized as exhibits. 18. A person authorized to search, arrest, seize exhibits and investigate in respect of any offence under this Law, who is guilty of any of the following acts shall, on conviction be punished with imprisonment which may extend from a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of 10 years and may also be liable to a fine:컴 (a) acting and accepting any money and property as gratification either for himself or for another person; (b) accepting a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance illegally; (c) replacing another person for the offender; concealing the offender without taking any action; (d) causing to disappear, altering by wrongful means, substituting, mixing the material involved in the offence; stating incorrectly the weight, volume or quantity of the material. 19. Whoever is guilty of any of the following acts shall, on conviction be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 10 years to a maximum of an unlimited period:컴 (a) possessing, transporting, transmitting and transferring a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance for the purpose of sale; (b) offering for sale, agreeing thereto or communicating to market a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; (c) concealing and causing to disappear money, property and benefits derived from the commission of any offence contained in this Law, so that action may not be taken; (d) transferring and converting money, property and benefits involved in an offence, so that it may appear to have been acquired from a legitimate source. 20. Whoever is guilty of any of the following acts shall, on conviction be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 15 years to a maximum of an unlimited period or with death:컴 (a) production, distribution and sale of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance; (b) importing and exporting a narcotic drug or substance; communicating to effect such import and export. 21. Whoever attempts, conspires, organizes, administers or provides financial assistance to commit any offence contained in this Law or abets the commission of any such offence shall be liable to the punishment provided in this Law for such offence. 22. If any of the acts provided in sections 16 to 21 have been committed under any of the following circumstances, the offender shall be liable to the maximum punishment provided for such offence:컴 (a) being a member of a local or foreign organization or group which commits crimes involving narcotic drugs or psychotropic substances or communicating with and participating in such organizations or groups; (b) handling and using arms or explosives in the commission of the offence; (c) making use of children who have not completed the age of 16 years in the commission of the offence; (d) committing or causing to commit an offence by making use of the influence or power of a public servant. 23. Whoever is guilty of any of the acts provided in sections 16 to 21 shall, after a prior conviction for the same offence be liable to the maximum punishment provided for such subsequent offence. 24. The Court shall컴 (a) in passing a sentence for any offence provided for in sections 16 to 21 pass an order for the confiscation or destruction or disposal in accordance with the stipulations of the narcotic drug, psychotropic substance, money, implements, moveable property, vehicles/vessels and animals involved in the offence; (b) in passing a sentence under section 19 or section 20 pass an order for confiscation of the immoveable property involved in the offence, which have been seized as exhibits. 25. The Court shall컴 (a) in respect of a person who habitually commits or is notorious of committing any offence contained in this Law pass an order for execution of a bond for good behaviour during a period not exceeding 3 years, in accordance with the rules; (b) if there is violation of the condition of the bond passed under sub-section (a) or if there is failure to execute the bond in accordance with the order passed for execution of a bond punish such person with imprisonment for a term which may extend from a minimum of 1 year to a maximum of 3 years. Chapter IX Miscellaneous 26. Whoever possesses or transports, transmits or transfers any of the following narcotic drug or psychotropic substance of the weight, volume or quantity or in excess of the weigth, volume or quantity shown against each shall be deemed to possess for the purpose of sale and to transport, transmit or transfer for the purpose of sale:컴 (a) in the case of heroin...three grammes (b) in the case of morphine...three grammes (c) in the case of mono-acetyl morphine...three grammes (d) total of the narcotic drugs contained in sub-sections (a), (b) and (c) or total of two types out of the said three...three grammes (e) in the case of crude opium or processed opium or total of the two...one hundred grammes (f) in the case of cannabis or essence of cannabis or total of the two...twenty-five grammes [as corrected 1/29] (g) in the case of coca leaf...one hundred grammes (h) in the case of cocaine...three grammes (i) the weight, volume or quantity which the Ministry of Health has, by notification from time to time prescribed for any narcotic drug or psychotropic substance. 27. If an exhibit involved in any offence prosecuted under this Law is not easily produceable before the Court, such exhibit need not be produced before the Court. However, a report or other relevant documentary evidence as to the manner of custody of the same may be submitted. Such submission shall be deemed as if it were a submission of the exhibit before the Court and the relevant Court shall pass an order for disposal of the same in accordance with law. 28. The provisions of this Law shall not apply to the following cases:컴 (a) production of narcotic drugs or psychotropic substance and carrying out works of research thereof, with the consent of the relevant Ministry; (b) use, possession, transportation, transmission, transfer, sale, import, export and external dealing in respect of narcotic drug or psychotropic substance in the manner prescribed for the purpose of production, work or research or medical treatment, with the consent of the relevant Ministry; (c) use, possession and transportation of a narcotic drug or psychotropic substance permitted by the Ministry of Health under the direction of any registered medical practitioner in accordance with the stipulations. 29. Rules, notifications, orders and directives issued under the Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Law, 1974 which is repealed by this Law may continue to be applicable in so far as they are not inconsistent with this Law. 30. For the purpose of carrying out the provisions of this Law:컴 (a) the relevent Ministry may issue rules and procedures with the approval of the Government; (b) the relevant Ministries and the Central Body may issue notifications, orders and directives as may be necessary. 31. The Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Law, 1974 is hereby repealed. (Sd) Than Shwe General Chairman The State Law and Order Restoration Council (WPD 1/28) Implementing Notifications Jan. 28: Ministry of Health Notifications, dated Jan. 28, specify the following: Psychotropic Substances (under Section 1(b) of the new Narcotics Law): 1. Lysergide 2. Mescaline 3. Parahexyl 4. Psilocine 5. Psilotsin 6. Psilocybine 7. Tetrahydrocannabinols 8. Amphetamine 9. Dexamphetamine 10. Methamphetamine 11. Methylphenidate 12. Phencyclidine 13. Phenmetrazine 14. Amobarbital 15. Cyclobarbital 16. Clutetheimide 17. Pentobarbital 18. Secobarbital 19. Amfepramone 20. Barbital 21. Ethchlorvynol 22. Ethinamate 23. Meprbamate 24. Methaqualone 25. Methylphenobarbital 26. Methyprylon 27. Phenobarbital 28. Pipradrol Chemicals used in the production of Narcotic Drugs or Psychotropic Substances (under Section 16(b) of the Law): 1. Acetic anhydride 2. Acetone 3. Anthranilic acid 4. Ethyl ether 5. Phenylacetic acid 6. Piperidine Plants which are Narcotic Drugs (under Section 16(a) of the Law): 1. Mitragyna speciosa 2. Psilocybe mushrooms 3. Peyote cactus (Mescaline) (WPD 1/29) MILITARY Insurgents Surrender Jan. 15: Between Dec. 2-10, 16 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 1/16) Jan. 16: Between Dec. 11-19, 16 terrorists surrendered, with their arms [names and details]. (WPD 1/17) Jan. 18: Between Dec. 20-31, 14 terrorists surrendered, with their arms, for a total of 46 in the month [names and details]. (WPD 1/19) Insurgent Attacks Dec. 31: A KNU mine on Dec. 22 killed one person and injured two near Mathein village, Hlaingbwe Twp. [Kayin]. A 12-inch unexploded mine was also discovered. (WPD 1/1) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Jan. 3: The Uto-Chaung Thongwa Road, by A Reporter. [Visit to newly completed road.] Jan. 3: Extension of fish and prawn farming; Taking a new step in Economic Year, by Reporter Win Kyi. [Growth of fish farms.] Jan. 3: Dam for Ngamoyeik Reservoir, by Swe Thant Ko. [Dec. 23 visit to construction project. The main dam is 6,200 feet long; four other ridge dams total 6,400 feet; for a total of 80,000 cubic feet of earth. Water release capacity will be 11,020 cf/sec. The catchment area is 160 square miles; the reservoir is 180,000 acres, dead water area 12,000 acres, and full-water mark area 11,000 acres. It will supply water to 70,000 acres, of which 12,000 are cultivated, and will prevent flooding of 3,000 acres, and provide 90 million gallons of water a day to Yangon. With three irrigation canals, the total cost will be K1,050 million.] Jan. 4: The Thanlyin-Bagantaung-Winkhanee trunk road, by Maung Ne Nyo. [New 17.4 mile dirt road.] Jan. 5: Golden carp for consumers, by Ma Aye Than. [Fish farming.] Jan. 6: The Maingshu Gemland, by Tin Hlaing (Katika). [New "ruby land" discovered in Maingshu [Mong-hsu] Twp., Shan State, 173 miles from Taunggyi. Characteristics of these rubies described--superior to but smaller than Mogok rubies, high manganese content, always with black spots inside, mostly cabochons (symmetrical along the axis with rhombohedron facets at the tips), no silk inclusions as with Mogok rubies.] Jan. 8: Double-crop paddy and boost agricultural economy, by Kyaw Kyaw. [Success stories from the field.] Jan. 9: A visit to Shwedaung reservoir, by Kyaw Kyaw. [Irrigation dam project in Bago Division.] Jan. 10: The Aungban-Loikaw Union Railroad, by Myint Lwin. [New railroad discussed.] Jan. 12: Let the kinsmen happily travel by train, by Ye Myint Pe. [More on the Aungban-Loikaw railroad.] Jan. 13: Gold or silver not required: water required: Bagan folks who need water now have water, by Tha Tun Wai. [The Taungzin Water Supply Project at Bagan/Nyaung-U.] Jan. 14: Our land our resources our fishes, by Reporter Win Kyi. [Development of ocean fisheries; foreign fishing concessions. Statistics: 1989-90 1990-91 1991-92 No. of firms 19 10 9 No. of Vessels 412 305 232 Rule violations 29 27 97 Taxes collected in US$ millions 1.1 15.5 4.9 in million kyat 1.3 17.6 61.9] Jan. 16: Beautiful products at co-op trade fair, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. [Visit to trade fair.] Jan. 16: Editorial: Prestigious Stand. ["Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung, on his recent tour of Okkan Township, said, while explaining the purpose of constructing more and more dams, 'Domestic demand has outpace supply. Under this situation, it has become necessary to increase paddy cultivation to more than 12 million acres. Efforts must be made to expand the cultivation area to as much as 16 million acres.' The State has planned to produce 700 million baskets of paddy in 1992-93 and 800 million baskets in 1993-94. When we are able to produce at least 1,000 million baskets, self-sufficiency will be ensured and the surplus can be exported as in the times of our forefathers, and thereby holding up the prestige of our nationals."] Jan. 17: Ngamoyeik Reservoir will contribute to national economic development, by Swe Thant Ko. [New reservoir for Yangon.] Jan. 17: The paddy plus fish production scheme, by Maung Lai Lar. [Growing fish in paddyfields.] Jan. 18: Peoples' reliance on double-crop paddy, by U Than. [Advantages and requirements for doublecropping.] Jan. 19: Let's travel by rail from Shan State to Kayah State, by Shwe Baw Phyoe (Sinde Wa). [The new Aungban-Loikaw railroad.] Jan. 21: Salt production and the Ayeyarwady Division, by Ayeyar Sitthi. [Survey of salt in Ayeyarwady.] Jan. 22: Agricultural census, Myanmar, by ACO. [Explanation of on-going Myanmar agricultural census, which will sample 240,000 farmers and take 2 1/2 years.] Jan. 24: The Ayeyarwady Division & multiple cropping, by Maung Lu Han. [Visit to the area described.] Jan. 24: Ngwedaung farmers growing & breeding in monsoon & in summer, by Nay Wun Tin. [Double-cropping.] Jan. 24: Developing Myanmar villages, by Thura Soe Aung. [Rural development.] Jan. 27: The paddy-plus-fish scheme with a good potential, by Dr. Maung Mar. [Advantages of fish-farming in paddy lands.] Jan. 28: The booming road stations, by Ah-htet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [Visit to Sinmalaik bus station, with its 85 long-distance bus gates.] Jan. 29: Make a visit to Wa Land, by Pho La Minn. [History and current progress of the area.] Jan. 31: The Yangon-Thanlyin bridge: a monument to Sino-Myanmar friendship, by Myint Swe (Kyemon). [9,600 foot bridge under construction since 1986.] Jan. 31: Let us grow more tapioca, by Min Soe (Agriculture). [A low-cost crop that can earn most foreign exchange.] Construction & Other Projects Jan. 1: The Myanma Department Store at the top floor of the Thiri-Oktha Market in Bago opened, after renovation at a cost of K11.5 million. It will sell foodstuff, drinks, clothes, textiles, sports equipment, plastics, cosmetics, medicines, fine arts, construction and electric equipment, etc.. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 6: A new 7� mile motor road from Kinmon Camp to the foot of the Yathetaung of Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda. New asphalt roads were opened in Byaung-ye-o-zin Ward, Tarmway Twp. [Yangon]. (WPD 1/7) Jan. 8: The new 49-mile Aungban-Pinlaung railroad was inaugurated. It has 139 bridges and 14 stations. (WPD 1/9) // Jan. 10: A special train will provide free transportation for ten days (Jan. 7-16), to thank workers for their voluntary labour on the new line. (WPD 1/11) Jan. 11: A new general store opened in Lashio on Jan. 1. (WPD 1/12) Jan. 26: The new Sawbwagyigon Insein Bus Station, for long-distance (over 200 mile) and large (20 seats and over) buses, will open Jan. 30. (WPD 1/27) Jan. 29: Over 800 miles of motor roads have been built in Ayeyarwady Division, making all parts of the Division accessibly by road from Yangon or the sea, said South-West Commander Brig-Gen. Tin Hla. The Labutta-Myaungmya road was opened Jan. 3, the Pyapon-Bogale and Pyapon-Kyonkadun-Setsan roads were opened Jan. 4, the Wakema-Shwelaung road was opened in 1992, and the Pyapon-Kyonkadun-Ama road is due to be opened in February. (WPD 1/30) Inya Lake Hotel Facelift, Housing Dec. 31: The Inya Lake Hotel on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road "will emerge on New Year's Day as a Three Star Hotel of international standard." Following negotiations begun in May 1991, Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services and Strand Hotel International Co. Ltd. of Hongkong formed the Myanmar Hotel International Joint Venture Ltd. on a 50-50 basis. US$5 million have been spent on renovations, almost all rooms and suites have been upgraded. On the west wing there are "at least" five deluxe suites with two bedrooms and parlour, seven suites with one bedroom and parlour, 50 junior suites, 19 superior rooms, and eight single rooms. On the east wing there are 73 doubles and 57 singles. There are also ten apartment rooms with kitchens for long-stay guests, making a total of 229 rooms. The rates for the west wing are: deluxe suite US$380, suite US$230, junior suite US$130, superior suite US$110, standard room US80. For the east wing the rates are double US$90 and single US$70. These do not include 10% tax and 10% service charge. The hotel offers a swimming pool, tennis court, miniature golf, TV, video, and in-house movies. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 12: Six 6-storey apartment houses, with 12 flats each, will be constructed at No. 96 Yangon-Insein Road in Yangon, under an agreement signed between Road Transport of the Ministry of Rail Transportation and the Kam Wo Construction Co. Ltd., represented by Chairman Mr. Chan Kai Meng. Kam Wo Co. Ltd. has been jointly set up by Zay Kabar Company and Kam Ieng Co. of Macao. The buildings, constructed to international standards, will be built "within 20 months by Myanmar workers, supervised by foreign engineers, with 80-percent imported materials." Under the agreement, two of the six buildings will go to Road Transport, and four to Kam Wo Co. (WPD 1/13) Cement On Sale for Dollars Dec. 31: Cement, imported from Indonesia of use in Yangon construction activities, will "also be on open sale" for K480 or US$4.00 per bag. (WPD 1/1) Private Enterprise Dec. 31: Speaking to journalists at the Insein Locomotive Shed, Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein and Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe said that there were 33,000 private industries in Myanmar, constituting "93 percent of national industry." They also said that "Private industries are main productive forces of national industry." (WPD 1/1) Jan. 5: Workshop No. 1/93 for entrepreneurs began at Myanmar Export-Import Services, with 97 entrepreneurs attending the six-week course. (WPD 1/6) Jan. 21: The first bazaar vessel in over 25 years left on a 597 mile cruise to Mandalay. The Mya Marlar, towing a 500-ton cargo barge and a 706-seat passenger barge, left No. 6 Wharf of Botataung Jetty. 5 x 10 foot sales rooms on board will sell clothes, personal goods, kitchen items, rice and rice products, marine products, medicines, general merchandise, lacquerware, etc. Overnight stops will be made at Maubin, Danubyu, Hinthada, Myanaung, Pyay, Myayde, Minhla, Sinbyugyunn, Nyaung-U, Pakokku, Myinmu, and Mandalay. On the return voyage, stops will be made at Simigon, Chauk, Magway, Myayde, Pyay, Myanaung, Hinthada, Maubin, and Yangon. "Commercials can be put up on the interior of the vessel at K 150 per one sq-ft." (WPD 1/22) Advertisements HAPPY NEW YEAR Right, Nice and Reasonable Price Quality 4-Course Menu Welcome to the Training Centre Myanma Hotel and Tourism Training Centre (Kandawgyi Hotel, Yangon) Luncheon: (12:00 hr to 14:00 hr) on every Week-day Advance Reservations: Tel. 80412/83052 (WPD 1/1, etc.) ------ TST TRANSPACK NETWORK (LOCAL) DO CALL US NOW FOR PACKING, TRANSPORTING AND FORWARDING OF:- Parcels and Gifts Peronal Effects Household Goods Office Equipment [LOGO] Vehicles and Crafts Machineries and Apparatus Factories and Mills Constructional Materials SAFE, SWIFT AND SURE DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE FOR FREE AND PROMPT QUOTATION, CONTACT:- POLARIS INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD. #63-65, 14th. Street, Lanmadaw P.O. Yangon Union of Myanmar TEL: 76627,64841. TLX: 21201 BM 1413 FAX.01-66251. (WPD 1/6) ----- SANYO GRAND OPENING SANYO Sales & Service Centre In Presence of MR TOSHIAKI TAGUCHI Executive Managing Director SANYO Electric Trading Co Ltd Japan on 18 January 1993, 10am, at SPPS Building 550 Merchant Street Yangon ALL ARE WELCOME TO WITNESS THIS INAUGURAL EVENT SWEE HONG EXIM PTE LTD, SINGAPORE SWEE HONG MYANMAR LTD, YANGON and STATIONERY, PRINTING AND PHOTOGRAPHIC STORES TRADING AUDIO-VIDEO-HIFI-AIRCONDITIONING-REFRIGERATOR-COLOR TELEVISION-HOME APPLIANCE (WPD 1/18--full page advertisement) Economic Committee Meetings Dec. 31: Under the chairmanship of Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, the National Industrial Promotion Committee, formed on November 27, held its first meeting. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 1: The Special Projects Implementation Committee held its first 1993 meeting under the chairmanship of SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe. "Special projects" include gold production work, hydro-electric power supply work, and irrigation work. All military units are to consider such projects in their areas as "their own" and "to render assistance." Reports were presented on the Special Metal (2) Gold Project site at Kyaukpahto Region "for increasing the rate of recovering gold using CIP system," as well as at the Phayaungtaung Special Metal (2) Gold Mine; on the Zaungtu Hydel Power Project in Bago Twp. [Bago[.], and the Balu Chaung No. 3 Hydel Project in Loikaw Twp. [Kayah]; on the implementation of the Okkan Dam Project in Taikkyi Twp. [Yangon], Min Ye Chaung Dam Project in Pyu Twp. [Bago], Hsin Chaung Dam Project in Yesagyo Twp. [Magway], and Kazunma Dam Project in Seikpyu Twp. [Magway]; and on the Thanlyin Bridge Construction Project being implemented jointly with China. (WPD 1/2) Banking Jan. 1: The Central Bank has issued a licence to the Myawaddy Bank, Ltd. of Yangon. (WPD 1/2) // Jan. 4: The bank opened at 189 Sule Pagoda Road. (WPD 1/5) Jan. 22: The Thai Military Bank became the first foreign bank with representative office in Myanmar, as Bank President Dr. Thanong Bidaya opened its office at 276 Anawrahta Street. "Following the promulgation of new banking laws and the prescription of related rules and regulations, five private banks have been opened in the country." (WPD 1/23) Trade Fairs Jan. 5: The first mid-term Gems Emporium, held in October, realized over US$8.9 million, while the 1992 regular Emporium realized US$8.7 million. The 30th Emporium will be held Feb. 18-28, 1993. (WPD 1/6) Jan. 5: The Myanma Co-operative Trade Fair was opened by Minister for Co-operatives Maj-Gen. Mya Thinn, with over 1000 products on sale. It will last until Jan. 16. (WPD 1/6) // Jan. 6: Under sales contracts signed at the fair on its first day, Sanmas Trading Co. of Singapore will purchase US$325,000 of agricultural products, and Eastbourne Chemical Industry Pte. Ltd. of Myanmar, and Huang Yui Co. of China will buy K208 million of agricultural products, timber, and sculptures. On the second day, contracts were signed worth US$1.3 million. (WPD 1/7) // Jan 7: The Fair was inspected by SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe. (WPD 1/8) // Jan. 8: M/S Sinmyan Commodities Pte. Singapore purchased US$598,200 of forest products, M/S Maurielo (Hong Kong) purchased US$4,060 and M/S Vencoa, USA purchased US$13,070 of handicrafts. (WPD 1/9) // Jan. 9: R Piyarelall Import & Export Co. of India purchased US$3.18 million of crops. (WPD 1/10) // Jan. 10: Rui Li Huan Yu Group Companies Ltd. of Yunnan purchased US$1.5 million of crops, and M/S Eastbourne Chemical Industry Pte Ltd. of Singapore purchased K106.7 million of forest products. (WPD 1/11) // Jan. 13: Irrawaddy Investment Ltd., Hong Kong, purchased US$163,500, and Tohmokuya & Co. of Japan US$28,500, of forest products. (WPD 1/14) // Jan. 14: M/S Aman Timber Pte Ltd of Singapore bought US$150,000 of forest products, and China-Myanmar International Investment Trading Ltd. signed a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of US$3.4 million of agricultural produce. (WPD 1/15) // Jan. 15: M/S Pine Products (USA) and M/S Phamtrade (M) Malayia purchased US$2.26 million of agricultural produce; M/S Eastbourne Chemical Industry Pte Ltd of Singapore purchased K7.5 million of forest products. (WPD 1/16) // Jan. 16: on the final day of the fair, Abdoolally Ebrahim & Co. of Hong Kong purchased US$825,000 and Kothari Trading Co., of India US$4l0,000 of agricultural products; China Trade Co. Ltd. US$80,000 of fisheries products; Thai Southern Investment Co. Ltd. US$209,000 of forest products; Ruili Humm Yu Group Companies of Yunnan, China, US$12,175 of handicrafts. During the whole trade fair, sale contracts valued at US$13,433,500 were signed. Handicrafts were sold also [details]. Over 100,000 persons visited the trade fair. (WPD 1/17) Off-Shore Petroleum and Gas Jan. 15: The Ministry of Energy invites "sealed bids for Petroleum Operation to be conducted in 18 Blocks of Myanma Offshore Area," namely Rakhine Offshore Area Blocks A3-A7, and Moattama Offshore Area Blocks M1-M4, M7-M11, and M15-M18. The terms will be in accordance with "the standard Production Sharing Contract." Details may be obtained from the Director General, Energy Planning Department, No. 74/80 Minyekyawswa Road, Yangon, and at Myanma Embassies abroad. Data can be obtained free of charge; "detailed data inspection for 6 men 6 hours period will be charged US $ 25,000 per block." Bids are due by April 1. (WPD 1/15) Jan. 19: The Singapore Weekly Journal Oil & Gas News for January 4-10 published an article entitled "Premier Oil's discovery in Myanmar" [fascimile printed in WPD]. According to the story, Premier has made a gas discovery which "flowed at a combined rate of 75 million cu ft per day." A wildcat well, Yetagun-1 in Block M-13 (13�03'31.92"N, 96�52'06.47"E) also "flowed 1,800 barrels per day of 47.5 degree API condensate." Blocks M-13, M-12, and M-14 are "under concession to Premier Oil and its partners," and cover some 12 million acres in the Gulf of Martaban. "This is where Total of France is implementing a billion dollar gas development project. At least two international oil companies have pulled out of Myanmar in recent months following disappointing drilling results. However, Premier's discovery has added new hope for the British company-led group to continue prospecting in Myanmar waters. Drilling work was carried out by Texaco of the United States which holds 50 per cent stake in the three blocks." Premier "had reduced its stake to 30 per cent through farm-in agreements with Texaco and Nippon Oil of Japan which has 20 per cent interst in the blocks." Myanmar Oil and Gas Enterprise "has the right to participate in the block with up to a maximum of 15 per cent of working interest." [map] (WPD 1/19) Jan. 21: Trawlers are warned to stay out of a limited area of Mottama [Martaban] Bay in which Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise and Total Myanmar Exploration and Production Company are engaged in exploring for off-shore oil. The Ocean Explorer (1) and Western Atlas are carrying out a 3-D seismic survey. More Salt Needed Jan. 14: Myanmar needs to produce over 200,000 tons of salt per year to meet rising needs, Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min told workers at the Thaunggon saltern of Myanma Salt and Marine Chemical Enterprise in Kungyangonn Twp., Yangon. He said the State aims at an annual increase of 500 acres of salt-works. Cellular Mobile Phones Jan. 21: 1000 cellular mobile telephones will be installed in Yangon for "government organizations, residents of Myanmar citizens, Foreign Embassies in Myanmar, International Agencies and local and foreign businesses." Applications can be made from Jan. 25 to March 31, and will require a deposit of K 1,000. (WPD 1/22) Border Development Plan Jan. 21: Chairman of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, and other officials, disclosed that SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe had on Nov. 24 ordered the drawing up of a Comprehensive Master Plan for border area development, and that preparations are under way to do so. (WPD 1/22) Foreign Exchange Certificates Jan. 27: [full text] Central Bank of Myanmar ----- Programme for the Issue and Use of Foreign Exchange Certificates 1. Objective The primary objective of issuence of Foreign Exchange Certificates is for the enhancement of foreign exchange earnings and for the convenience of tourists visiting Myanmar. 2. Exchange of Foreign Exchange Certificates (a) Foreign Exchange Certificates are exchangeable with the following foreign currencies or with the acceptable Traveller's Cheques (1) US dollar (2) Pound Sterling (3) Bank of Tokyo Traveller's Cheque (4) CITI Corp [sic] Traveller's Cheque (5) Visa Traveller's Cheque (6) Bank of America Traveller's Cheque (7) National Westminster Bank Ltd Traveller's Cheque (8) First National CITI Bank Traveller's Cheque (9) Swiss Bankers Traveller's Cheque (10) Commonwealth Bank of Australia Traveller's Cheque. (b) The Acceptable Traveller's Cheques are as follows:- (1) Master Card Traveller's Cheque (2) American Express Traveller's Cheque [as corrected 1/29] (c) Foreign Exchange Certificates can be exchanged by using Visa Credit Card facilities at the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and its exchange counters at the Yangon airport and also at the State-owned hotels appointed as agents of the Visa Credit Card. (d) The exchange rates of Foreign Exchange Certificate are as follows:- (1) US dollar (one) = Foreign Exchange Certificate (one) unit (2) Pound Sterling is to be exchanged at the daily cross rate notified by the banks. (e) The fractions of the Foreign Exchange Certificates calculated at the daily cross rate will not be exchanged. (f) Tourists entering Myanmar are required to exchange completely the prescribed minimums amount of US $ 200 with Foreign Exchange Certificates 200 units. The aforesaid Foreign Exchange Certificates 200 units will not be reconverted at the time of departure from Myanmar. However, in the case of unutilized balance of the Foreign Exchange Certificates exchanged above the Foreign Exchange Certificates 200 units, the balance will be reconverted at the time of departure, on presentation of the "Foreign Exchange Certificates Voucher" at the exchange counters. 3. Programme of Issue of Foreign Exchange Certificates (a) Date of Issue The Foreign Exchange Certificates will be issued with effect from 4th February 1993. (b) Issuing Organizations The Foreign Exchange Certificates wil be issued solely by the Central Bank of Myanmar. (c) Organizations Exchanging Foreign Exchange Certificates The following organizations are authorized to obtain Foreign Exchange Certificates from the Central Bank of Myanmar and exchange the Foreign Exchange Certificates with foreign currencies:- (i) Myanma Foreign Trade Bank (ii) Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank (iii) Myanma Economic Bank Branches (iv) State-owned Hotels holding "Money Changer Licence". 4. Accepting of Foreign Exchange Certificates and opening of foreign exchange accounts by State enterprises and private individuals (a) Payments by Foreign Exchange Certificates shall be deemed to have been made in foreign exchange. (b) These Foreign Exchange Certificates are acceptable by any person in the Union of Myanmar. (c) Foreign Exchange Certificates received can be deposited into the recipient's foreign exchange accounts. (d) A new account can be opened in Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank in accordance with existing rules, regulations and procedures for those recipients who have no foreign exchange accounts. (e) A new foreign exchange account can be opened at the above mentioned banks with initial deposit of minimum Foreign Exchange Certificates 100 units. At the time of opening a new foreign exchange account or at the time of additional deposit of Foreign Exchange Certificates into their accounts, the banks will collect 10 per cent of the value of Foreign Exchange Certificates as service charges and the remaining 90 per cent will be deposited to the account of the account holder. The 25 per cent of the amount of 90 per cent of Foreign Exchange Certificates so deposited need not be exchanged in Myanmar Kyat. (f) The prescribed fees for foreign exchange accounts passbook will be collected from the account holder. (g) The recipients of Foreign Exchange Certificates in the district may either keep the Foreign Exchange Certificates in hand or deposit them with the Myanma Economic Bank Branches for safe custody in their names. The Myanma Economic Bank Branch will issue a receipt for the value of the Foreign Exchange Certificates received. These Foreign Exchange Certificates can be withdrawn by the depositor on presenting the safe custody receipt to the bank. The recipient may communicate with the Myanma Foreign Trade Bank and Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank in Yangon for opening foreign exchange account with these Foreign Exchange Certificates. (h) The Foreign Exchange Certificates in hand or withdrawn from Myanmar Economic Bank Branches may be carried by the recipients on their own arrangement, within the Union of Myanmar. 5. Withdrawal of the Foreign Exchange Acceptor/Holder Licences Since any person is allowed to hold Foreign Exchange Certificates, the Foreign Exchange Acceptor/Holder Licences issued by the Central Bank are no longer required. These licences will be withdrawn with effect from 4th February 1993. (WPD 1/28) Feb. 27: [Partial text] Central Bank of Myanmar Yangon Press Release Dated 27 January 1993 1. The Central Bank of Myanmar will issue Foreign Exchange Certificates (FECs) with effect from the 4th February 1993 as follows:컴 (1) FOREIGN EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE EQUIVALENT TO US $ 10; (2) FOREIGN EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE EQUIVALENT TO US $ 5; (3) FOREIGN EXCHANGE CERTIFICATE EQUIVALENT TO US $ 1. 2. The size of each FOREIGN EXCHANGE CERTIFICAGTE is 15.2 x 6.5 cm. 3. The description of the FOREIGN EXCHANGE CERTIFICATES are as follows:컴 [see photos] 4. The following are reproductions of Foreign Exchange Certificates:- 5. The Foreign Exchange Certificates will be exchanged with effect from the 4th February 1993 at the exchange counters of the following banks and hotels:- (1) The Myanma Foreign Trade Bank, Yangon; (2) The Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank, Yangon; (3) District and Township Branches of the Myanma Economic Bank; (4) Foreign exchange counters at airports; (5) State owned hotels holding Money Changer Licence. (WPD 1/28) 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 81.34 96.02 95.98 1993, as of: January 30 00.00 00.00 00.00 Record Cold Snap in Yangon Jan. 26: The temperature went down to 10.0� C. (50.0� F.), lower than the 10.4� C. (50.7� F.) set on Jan. 1, 1976, and the lowest minimum temperature recorded in 112 years. (WPD 1/27) HEALTH Health Articles Jan. 2: The Pyinmana Infirmary, by Khin Maung Than (Industry). [History and progress of the old Pyinmana infirmary, founded in 1938.] Jan. 15: Red Cross in the service of the people, by Kyaw Sein. [The Red Cross Ambulance Service and the Htaukkyant Emergency Aid Station.] Jan. 17: Western Medicine Practitioners & Traditional Medicine Practitioners must co-operate, by Soe Aung (Traditional Medicine Institute). [Traditional medicine has much to contribute.] Jan. 22: The arojan movement of Pakokku, by Maung Hsu Shin. [Public participation in building health facilities.] Health Facilities Jan. 1: The "first medical check-up laboratory for out-patients" opened at Yangon General Hospital; its aim is that "lab-tests must be exact, fast and cheap." Myanmar and UN officials participated. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 14: The Dental and Health Care Co-operative Society (Ltd) of Pabedan Township [Yangon] was formed and opened a clinic at 523 Maha Bandoola Road, which will engage in "production and selling of false teeth and medical equipment, and health care activities." (WPD 1/15) Painkiller Injections Banned Jan. 6: The Myanmar Drug Advisory Committee has cancelled the registration in Myanmar of drugs containing the pain-killer Glafenine, including Glafenine, Glifanan, Cefinine, Consci, Glafine, Glifed, and Sypa. It has also been informed that Parentrovite injections and other drugs produced by Smith Kline Beecham Company "contain particles" and have been recalled world-wide. Therefore the production, import, and distribution of drugs containing Glafenine is banned, and Parentrovite injections, IVHP and IMHP manufactured by Smith Kline Beecham Company are not to be distributed. (WPD 1/8, correction 1/13) // Jan. 16: A press release from Smith Kline Beecham says that all its other products are still on sale, and that new batches of Parentrovite will soon be available. (WPD 1/19) Myanmar's Health Problems Jan. 26: Speaking to the National Health Committee, its Chairman, SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, said that "Assistance must be provided to private medical entrepreneurs and those engaged in carrying out medical trade to enable them to do business legally and systematically and this will in turn make basic medicines required by patients readily available and reasonable cost." In addition, "he pointed out that though free medicines could not be supplied to all the patients by the State, priority must be given to making efforts to supply medicines free to the needy...[and] if that was not possible then at least they should be made available at reasonable prices." He spoke of the "need to make arrangements in such a way that health service personnel would be eager to go and serve in the rural areas so that the health gap between rural and urban areas would be narrowed down as much as possible." He called for more research, more maternal and child care, and the promotion of traditional medicine. The Committee Secretary, Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin then discussed "national population policy, conducting medical checks for HIV-positive cases on the returnees from Thailand and AIDS-control measures. (WPD 1/27) SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations Jan. 22: A select soccer team led by Football Federation President U Saw Shwe left to participate in the New Year Soccer Tournament in Macao, Jan. 21-26. Managing Director of the Zay Kaba Company U Khin Shwe will be Team Manager, and coaches are U Khin Maung Aye and Mr. Werner F. Bickelhaupt (German soccer coach). Players are Zaw Win Naing, Sai Maung Maung Oo, San Win, Htay Naing, Soe Naing (1), Kyaw Min, myo Hla, Min Zaw Oo, Kyi Lwin, Saw Ba Myint, Soe Moe Kyaw, Than Toe Aung, Tun Myint Lwin, Aung Naing, Soe Naing (2), Tun Tun Htet, Win Shwe, Myint Ko, Tin Myo Aung, and Myint Htwe. (WPD 1/23) Visiting Dutch Coach Jan. 14: Dutch Soccer Coach Mr. Gerardus Blok arrived Jan. 12 to serve as a soccer coach, and on Jan. 14 called on Football Federation President U Saw Shwe. He called for good training, and also opening a library for footballers and provision for watching videotapes of international football matches. Mr. Blok has served as a FIFA coach in Saudi Arabia, Honduras, and Turkey. (WPD 1/15) Hole-in-One Jan. 27: Maung Weik hit a hole-in-one Jan. 26 on the 168-yard fourth hole of the Yangon Golf Course, using a Ping Eye No. 7 Iron and a Max Fli-4 golf ball. (WPD 1/29) CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles Jan. 1: Traditional Myanmar fine art of lacquer-making, by Ma Kyi Pya. [Description of Myanmar lacquer making process.] Jan. 3,17,24: Impressions, by Min Kyaw Min. [(1) "Mutual help in Myanmar society"컴Tradition of mutual help, Lok-ah-pay. (3) "English for everyday use" 컴English language teaching programs on Myanma Radio (4) "Self-reliance is the motto"컴"There was a time when English was taught in schools here beginning from infant class.... However, there was, some decades back, and assessment that came to the conclusion that children having been taugh "Bamar" grammar up to the fifth standard, minus English, would pick up the trend of English grammar if they started learning English beginning in the fifth standard. Maybe, it was a good decision, or considered good at the time, but it did not work, judging from the plight of even those majoring in English at the university. So, it was decided that infant school English teaching should resume, but the several years' gap that occurred left much to be desired in the the proficiency of subject teachers taking care of English. That so-called half-way catch-up work did not work, and we are now having to work overtime to get studying of English back in form...."] Jan. 3,4,31 Poems; in English and Burmese. [(1) "A hugging kiss" by Min Ye Kyaw. (2) "Come out of the dream jungle" by Thiha Aung. (3) "The farmer" by Min Yu Way.] Jan. 17,24: Short Stories. [(3) "The Physician" by Maung Htin. (4) "All for love's sake" by Pe Than.] Jan. 26: To Kyaik-Hti-Yoe, the Shrine of the Buddha's Hair and back in one day, by Maung Maung Nyein (Khaikhto). [New road has made pilgrimage easier.] Jan. 31: Superb writing with a variety of tastes, by Hein. [1964 collection of short stories, Sarso hnint letyar mon, by Sayagyi U Yan Aung.] Jan. 31: Portraying the splendours of love, by Director Myint Maung. [Writing Mye Hmar Pwint Thaw Mitta Pan in 1966.] Translation Course Jan. 1: The first English-to-Myanmar translation course opened, with 54 trainees, at the Ministry of Information. The course will last four months. (WPD 1/2) Jan. 20: A much needed training course, by Tekkatho Ne Win. [Urgent need for the recently started English-Myanmar translation course.] University Convocation Jan. 2: The Yangon Institute of Technology held its 24th Convocation. Pro-Rector U Kyin Soe conferred six M.Phil degrees, four Diplomas in Food Technology, and 442 B.E. degrees; he also conferred 208 degrees in absentia. (WPD 1/3) Religion & Traditional Culture Jan. 10: 23 persons, including 13 from abroad, were novitiated and ordained [as Buddhist monks]; they will reside at the International Patipatti Centre on Inya Myaing Road, Yangon. (WPD 1/11) Jan. 12: "'Thabin' is the only performing art in which we can find genuine traits of Myanmar traditional culture," said SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, meeting with members of the Executive Committee of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan Thabin Artistes Asiayon at the Ministry of Defence. (WPD 1/13) Jan. 17: The Hindu New Harvest Feast cultural dance sponsored by the All-Myanmar Hindu Religious Board was held at the Mahatma Gandhi Hall; Chairman GS Sharma delivered a New Harvest Feast speech. (WPD 1/18) Conversions to Buddhism [In the past month or so, articles have begun to appear concerning the conversion of persons컴apparently mostly animists컴to Theravada Buddhism. Since this is a new development, we will track them for at least a while. 컴 HCMacD.] Jan. 13: Adee villagers in Tachilek Twp. [Shan] were converted to Theravada Buddhism on Jan. 1. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 15: 67 persons from 13 households in Monkhu Ward, Yilon Yikan village tract, Pekhon Twp. [Shan] became Theravada Buddhists on Dec. 8. (WPD 1/16) Jan. 16: 4,000 Naga nationals from Khamti, Sagaing Division, became Theravada Buddhists on Jan. 9. (WPD 1/17) Jan. 18: 396 Naga nationals from 81 households in Nar Myitta Ward, Khamti, became Theravada Buddhists. (WPD 1/19) New Books and Magazines on Sale Jan. 13: Sarpay Beikman has begun distribution of a "book on the system of writing Myanmar alphabet" by U Myat Kyaw. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 15: Books on laws, rules, orders, and declarations promulgated in 1990 and 1991 by the State Law and Order Restoration Council are available at the Attorney-General's Office. Prices are K75 per copy for 1990 and K50 for 1991. Other publications available at the same office are the English-Myanmar Law Lexicon (K50 per copy), and "the book on code of conduct and responsibilities and rights of lawyers" (K30 per copy). (WPD 1/16) Jan. 17: The Department of Physics, Yangon University, published Physics Journal, Vol. 22, No. 1, for tenth standard students. (WPD 1/18) Jan. 27: The speeches made at the National Convention will be published in book form, and sold beginning Jan. 28. Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt's Jan. 7 speech of greeting will cost 55 pyas; his opening address of Jan. 9 will cost 1.65 kyats; his clarifications of Jan. 11 will cost 55 pyas; U Aung Toe's speech of Jan. 11 will cost 2 kyat. (WPD 1/ 28) Sarpay Beikman Manuscripts Jan. 19: 277 manuscripts in 11 out of 12 categories have been received for the 1992 Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards competition. They include 21 novels, 44 collections of short stories, 120 collections of poems, 14 books on the arts, 14 on science, 12 on Myanmar culture and art, 19 children's books, 6 youth's books, 6 plays, and one political book. Prizes will be K25,000 for first prize, K20,000 for second, and K15,000 for third. The book prescribed for translation will be distributed soon. (WPD 1/20) MISCELLANEOUS Anti-Narcotics Activities Dec. 31: Railway police on Dec. 11 seized 1.2 kilos of raw opium at Mandalay Railway Station; 0.6 kilos of heroin was seized there on Dec. 14. The Lashio anti-drug squad on Dec. 7 seized 0.5 kilos of heroin on a bus from Muse. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 7: The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Dec. 29 seized 20.2 kilos of opium form a Hsi-paw-Mandalay bus at Ohnchaw village, Patheingyi Twp. [Mandalay], and kilos of opium at the Mandalay Railway station on Dec. 26. (WPD 1/8) Jan. 8: Pyin-Oo-Lwin [Maymyo] police on Dec. 25 seized 2.0 kilos of heroin and 12.3 kilos of raw opium on the Lashio-Mandalay train. The Myitkyina anti-drug squad on Dec. 28 seized 4.7 kilos of opium in Hopin. (WPD 1/9) Jan. 13: The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Dec. 30 seized 1.2 kilos of opium at the Mandalay railway station. (WPD 1/14) Jan. 20: Lashio police on Jan. 18 seized 21.7 kilos of heroin from a car at a Lashio checkpoint. The Lashio anti-drug squad on Jan. 19 seized 3.0 kilos of heroin in Muse. "In a similar case, on 13 November last year in Muse Township, the Lashio anti-drug members also caught two persons컴 one dead and one alive컴with 1.578 kilos of heroin." (WPD 1/21) Jan. 22: The Special Anti-drug squad on Jan. 5 seized 2.0 kilos of marijuana in Pyay [Prome]. The Dagon Myothit (South) police on Dec. 14 seized 1.5 kilos of Umarijuana in a latrine pit. (WPD 1/23) Jan. 26: The Mandalay anti-drug squad on Jan. 23 seized 12.1 kilos of opium at the Mandalay railway station. (WPD 1/27) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are obituaries in Burmese as well.] Dec. 30: Mrs. P. Dway (a) Daw Si Si, relict of U Dway (Dway's Optico), died in Yangon, aged 87. [Christian] (WPD 1/1) Jan. 2: U Gandhi Anamalai (a) U Tin Pe, husband of Daw Tin May (a) Daw Nyo, died in Yangon, aged 75. [Hindu] (WPD 1/3) Jan. 13: U Tun Kyaing, father of Myanma Seal Ltd. Director U Aung Nyunt, died. [Condolence message]. (WPD 1/17) no date given: U Than Htut (Htut Htut), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, died [in Laos?], aged 26. Message of Acknowledgment. (WPD 1/16) Jan. 18: Saw William Htun, Traffic Police Officer, husband of Naw Judy Po Myat, died in Yangon, aged 35. [Christian] (WPD 1/20) Marriage Jan. 4: Mr. Ayub Jamal, son of the late Mr. Dawood Jamal and Mrs. Kathleen Jamal, of Yangon, married Miss Deepa K C (a) Shameem, daughter of Mr. Tul Singh K C and Mrs. Oma K C. (WPD 1/7) Fires Dec. 31: During November, there were 111 fires in Myanmar, which destroyed 33 houses and property worth 230,000 kyats, and left 111 people homeless. 90% resulted from the careless use of kitchen fires. (WPD 1/1) Jan. 22: During December, there were 142 fires in Myanmar, which killed three people and injured one; 1,425 persons were made homeless. 2,045 houses and one factory were destroyed, and 3,482 animals perished. 112 of the 142 cases, or 78.9%, were due to negligence. (WPD 1/23) Jan. 28: A fire in Bahann Township [Yangon], starting at No. 17 Bogyoke Museum Street, destroyed 94 houses, leaving over 900 people from 185 households homeless; loss is estimated at K 1.2 million. (WPD 1/ 29) Postage Stamps Jan. 6: Stamps commemorating the National Convention, in denominations of 50 pya and 3 kyat, will be issued Jan. 9; a temporary post office has been opened at the Kyaikkasan Grounds. (WPD 1/7) Lottery Ticket Scam Jan. 7: Drawing of the new lottery tickets will begin Feb. 3. "As it is found that there were frequent malpractices regarding tickets during the time of taking out the prize money, tickets which are torn in two with the alphabet and numbers in separate parts will not be considered for prize money." (WPD 1/8) Unsightly Logs Banned Jan. 19: "The Yangon City Development Committee has issued a warning against indiscriminate stock-piling of logs in house compounds along the roads in the townships and wards in Yangon. It says that logs are piling up in residential compounds and in spaces along the roads and this affects the cleanliness and beauty of the city. It calls for the removal of the stock-piles and warns that action will be taken according to existing laws unless those are removed by 31 January." (WPD 1/20) Earthquakes Jan. 17: Bago LORC Chairman Maj-Gen. Soe Myint "yesterday inspected renovation of the earthquake-damaged pagodas in Toungoo. He inspected renovation of Lokuttara Pagoda, Thein-U Pagoda, Maha Muni Kelazaki Pagoda and Nagayon Pagoda. He left suggestions on renovation of pagodas maintaining originality." (WPD 1/18) Jan. 20: An earthquake of strong intensity (6.2 Richter) was reported at 09:06:06 local time, with epicenter about 1170 miles E of Yangon. (WPD 1/21) Jan. 27 [?]: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.6 Richter) was reported at 03:06:26 local time on 20th January [sic], with epicentre about 50 miles N of Khamti in the India-Myanmar border area. (WPD 1/ 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 shouldd be payable to: University of Illinois, with "Burma Press Summary" annotated on check. EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE Editorial correspondence, requests for full copies of articles, and requests for back issues before January 1991 should be sent to: Hugh C. MacDougall 32 Elm Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 Burma Press Summary