93-02 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. 2, February 1993 Table of Contents POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans 2 Cartoons 2 Political Articles 2 Returnees from Bangladesh 4 Prisoners Released 5 Doctors Refresher Course 5 Nobel Prizewinners' Protest 5 NATIONAL CONVENTION National Convention Reconvenes 6 Administrative Matters 6 Specific Delegates 6 U Aung Toe's Speech 7 Panels of Chairmen 9 Panels Discuss Chapter Headings 10 Plenary Session on Chapter Headings 11 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 17 New Myanmar Ambassadors 17 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 18 Myanmar-Shri Lanka Relations 18 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops 18 Foreign Donations 18 Myanmar Donations 18 Buddhist Shrine in Nepal 19 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 19 Business Visitors 19 Academic Visitors 20 Foreign Journalists 20 Chinese Foreign Minister 20 Italian Monk 21 US Congressman 21 Vietnamese Silk Delegation 21 Indonesian Coordination Minister 21 Thai Deputy Foreign Minister 21 Chinese Civil Affairs Minister 21 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 22 Religious Delegations 22 Business Delegations 22 Delegations to Meetings & Events 22 Nurses to Malaysia 22 Delegations Return 23 MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 23 Transfers 23 GOVERNMENT Union Day Message 23 Union Day Celebrations 24 Planning & Finance Ministry Split 24 Ministers & Deputies Appointed 24 Drugs Exempted from Duty 25 Drug License Regulations 25 MILITARY Insurgent Attacks 26 Insurgents Surrender 26 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 26 Construction & Other Projects 28 Joint Ventures 28 Advertisements 28 Integrated Agriculture 29 Bazaar Train 29 Imports 30 Tourism 30 Gems Emporium 30 Timber Industry 30 Rainfall in Yangon 31 HEALTH Health Articles 31 Myanmar Malaria Research 31 SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations 31 Sports Articles 32 Hole-in-One 32 CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles 32 Literary Anthology 32 Conversions to Buddhism 32 Universities Open 33 Kale College Inaugurated 33 Video Censorship 33 MISCELLANEOUS Crime 33 Court News 33 Anti-Narcotics Activities 33 US Drug Enforcement Agency 34 Obituaries 34 Fire 35 Trainees Injured 35 ------------------------------------------- HIGHLIGHTS -- Renewed National Convention Session [National Convention] -- Death of wife of former Prime Minister U Nu [Obituaries] -- Planning & Finance Ministry split; new Ministers appointed [Government] -- Reactions to Nobel Peace prizewinners' mission to Thailand [Political Articles; Nobel Prizewinner' Protest] February 22 issue not received. POLITICAL CRISIS Slogans Regular Slogans: See January 1993 issue. Variable Slogans: Since August 1991, The Working People's Daily has run a changing religious slogan at the top of each front page: Feb. 1-15: Anakula ca kammanta, to be engaged in peaceful occupation; this is the way to auspiciousness. Feb. 16-28: Dananca, generosity; this is the way to auspiciousness. Cartoons Feb. 1: First Myanmar: "Can't breathe well...worse at night." Second Myanmar: "Must be asthmatic." First Myanmar: "No, I'm talking about congested bus." Feb. 2: Wife (to husband carrying blanket and pillow): "Where to? Going to sleep with your mistress?" Husband: "Humph! Going to queue up to get a permit as lottery agent!" Feb. 7: Teacher: "At sea, biggest is..." Pupil: "Whale, sir." Teacher: On land, highest is..." Pupil: Prices, sir." Feb. 8: Man observing sharply-rising graph: "Not principle-rise graph--it's accidents." Feb. 11: Myanmar to friends: "I don't take bribes as I am a service personnel! -- but my wife is not!" Feb. 15: Bureaucrat to friend: "Must get son married off before pension - will fetch lots of presents." Feb. 19: First Myanmar: "The stereo-show which is being staged...is it for the public or for a minority?" Second Myanmar (thinks): "100/-, 200/-, 300/- per ticket!" Feb. 21: Husband: "Good health is a blessing." Wife: "Sure is. Unless you're healthy and we can repay the bank loans, can't breathe in peace." Feb. 23: Conductor of over-packed jitney-bus to driver: "Drive on! Drive on! There's no one at all on the running-board!" Feb. 28: "Devas" looking up into the clouds: "Higher than celestial world? What are you?" Response from above: "Commodity prices!" 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: Feb. 2: Tatmadaw will not allow Union to break up, by Kyaw Thura. [Tatmadaw always works for the national well-being.] Feb. 3: 'Kabar Makyay' Till the End of the World, by Maung Myo Tun (Myingyan). [Words from national anthem remind author of how Britain enslaved Myanmar in 1885.] Feb. 4: With sincerity, by Yebaw Thit Maung. [Insurgents disregarded the Tatmadaw's suspension of operations in 1992. "Beginning 25 July 1992, some 500 insurgents belonging to the KNU and the so-called DAB launched an attack on Hteemukhee Camp in Byakawpu area. On 1 September 1992, the KNU and the KNPP insurgents launched an attack on Hweponlaung." The Tatmadaw defended itself: "The Tatmadaw was compelled to occupy the Sawhta area inflicting 25 casualities among the insurgents. In the Hteemukhee Tatmadaw counter-offensive, 142 insurgent were killed and 462 wounded." Extortion by insurgents continued; the price charged families unable to provide an insurgent recruit in the Sittaung Valley rose from K20,000 to K50,000. In Nov., 1992, the KNU ordered the mining of motor roads in the byakawpu Hteemukhee area. Beginning in January 1993 "insurgents are again found to have seeped into the plains areas of Kyaukkyi Township, compelling the Tatmadaw again to chase them away." While many insurgents recognize the sincerity of the Tatmadaw in calling the National Convention, and are preparing to discuss a ceasefire, "Insurgent leaders who have become millionaires in foreign countries apparently are worried that there interests are getting jeopardised. The lot of the followers as usual was to get maimed or to get killed. Some of them are striving to sabotage the National Convention. Others are getting envious of firm fraternal relations established with a number of national races and are now striving to ruin those ties...."] Feb. 12: We shall never surrender, by Ko Ko Htut. [Kachin, Shan, and Chin resisters fought the British in 1886; Myanmar will never surrender its patriotic ideals.] Feb. 12: Our Unity, by Shwe La Win. [Ethnic unity established at Panglong.] Feb. 12: Glorious traditions of national solidarity, by Ko Soe. [Need to continue national unity.] Feb. 12: Further consolidating national solidarity, by Maung Dawna. [History of nationalism.] Feb. 12: National Unity: the most important factor, by Theimm Htut. [Traditional of national race resistance to colonialism.] Feb. 14: The Loyal Hills Peoples, by Saw Mon Nyin. [Hill peoples have always fought imperialism.] Feb. 21: "Lay down your arms", by Moemoe. [Plea for international disarmament.] Feb. 23: For peace or for terrorism? by Maha Thamun. [Visit of Nobel Prize winners to Thailand denounced. "I wonder what kind of unpeaceful activities these great big Nobel peace prize recipients have been up to?... These great big Nobel prize recipients who were the butt of jibes and titters from the time they arrived, before long, proceeded to interfere in the internal affairs of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan. They soon began to scream frantically that the Myanmar Naing-Ngan should release 'political prisoners' and that arms should not be sold to Myanmar Naing-Ngan.... The KNU have never exercised the slightest iota of 'human rights' or democracy in their entire existence. And it is amazing indeed that such disciples of Satan and advocates of evil should get together with so-called 'men of peace'. I, Maha Thaman can only see this development as a new and vicious step calculated with wanton wickedness to try and bring about the disintegration of our Union, disruption of national solidarity and compromise our sovereign integrity."] Feb. 23,25,27: If I speak out, It may amount to Aung Min's taking too much for granted, by Aung Min. [(1) Hands off! hands off! Denunciation of Nobel Peace Prize winners' mission to Thailand to protest the Myanmar human rights situation. (2) KNU Nga Mya can get a 'Nobel'. "Due to a few 'Nobels' who have so shamelessly and grossly interfered in the internal affairs of the Myanmar Naing-Ngan, all other 'Nobels' on this planet, including those who have passed away have become discredited." Kayin insurgency the result of a British stratagem. (3) With apologies to 'Shwe Yauk-pha's'. Author remorseful because in his last article "was so intent on revealing the true vicious nature of the KNU terrorists that I had forgotten to mention that the number of decent, law-abiding, god-fearing and loyal Kayin people who have the fullest measure of Union spirit, far out-number the unsavoury individuals." Lengthy extract from an Oct. 29, 1959, "assessment" of the KNU (KNDO) by three KNU politburo members, calling it based on "narrow-minded racism," and prone to "indulge in senseless arson, murder, vandalism and robbery."] Feb. 24: Their narrow and gloomy world, by Yebaw Thit Maung. [Atrocities of insurgents recalled. "A bad end awaits those who cling to obsolete style depravities and delight in swimming in seas of blood in a gloomy world. Those who fear to see light will ultimately get crushed by the Tatmadaw and punished by the masses."] Feb. 24,26,28: Thet-le and Shwethway Discussions, by Warazein. [(1) With so prestigious a thief. Denunciation of Nobel Peace Prizewinners protest. (2) Falsehoods run amuck. Groups like the Commission on Human Rights "are really beyond redemption...like thieves hollwering 'Stop thief' ...." (3) 'Friend'. Myanmar has always stood by its neighbours; now we know "what a true friend is and what a false companion is."] Feb. 24: A tale of two neighbouring countries, by Nyan Htet. [Contrast between {though neither specified by name} conduct of Myanmar and Thailand towards each other; one practices non-interference, the other accepts foreign influence and allows insurgents and expatriates free reign.] Feb. 25: A new form of interference, by Yebaw Thit Maung. ["Accepting these grat big 'Nobels', making arrangements for them to go and meet the terrorist insurgents and for these great big 'Nobels' to push the terrorist insurgents to centre stage are all essentially nothing more than new forms of foreign interference and meddling. Such actions are despicable and shameful."] Feb. 26: Applying treatment where there is no injury, by Ko Ko Lwin. [The "visit of eight Nobel prize recipients to Thailand" was paid for by "a human rights organization headquartered in Canada." Among them were "the titular head of a Mahayana Buddhist sect and a black Bishop from South Africa...." Their demands included that "'political prisoners' in Myanmar Naing-Ngan should be freed; that power should be handed over to a civilian government; on such basis [sic], that a general blockade be imposed upon Myanmar Naing-Ngan and furthermore that Myanmar Naing-Ngan should be suspended from UN membership." Four things are to be noted: First, "the way in which everything has been systematically synchronized and co-ordinated and perfect timing achieved," with the holding of the National Convention. A political and diplomatic offensive has been launched by the terrorists to block the National Convention, to prevent a Constitution under which the Tatmadaw will hand over power to a democratically elected government, for then "there will be nothing more to hope for the terrorists." Thus, "The Nobel peace prize recipients in this case are nothing more than Pawns in this chess move of international politics." Second, why did they allow themselves to be used? They may have wanted publicity and prominence, or just a free trip to a tourist destination. But, "it is known that the head of the Mahayana sect of Tibetan origin...was at one time made use of by a secret organization of a Western bloc super power...." Third, the arrangements clearly "reveals the hand behind the act." The arrangements were all made by "a White journalist of the foreign correspondents club who is known for his anti-Myanmar activities," whose influence "is so considerable that certain embassies in Myanmar Naing-Ngan allow their diplomatic pouches to be used by those who oppose the government to send letters to him," and who "is also said to be a correspondent for the thinly-disguised political propaganda journal known as the "Far Eastern Economic Review.'" Fourth, why did the Nobel prize recipients go to "the neighbouring country," when they could have made a declaration at home? The reason "was to give the impression that having gone to the so-called 'refugee camps', the group would be able to amplify and broadcast on the international stage, all the things which they have been told by the so-called 'refugees'.... These so-called 'refugees' include families of terrorist insurgents; smugglers...., and criminals who... dare not face the law of the land." Why don't the Nobel prize recipients deal with real problems like the Palestinian deportees and the Bosnians?] Feb. 27: KNU and the visitors with new masks, by Yebaw Thit Maung. [History of KNU and Bo Mya {with photo of Bo Mya "personally bayoneting to death a number of young KNU commanders."}. So-called refugee camps are frauds.] Feb. 28: A ruby that can't be tarnished by the mud, by Nyan Htet. [Nobel peace prize recipients "echoing the voices of the terrorist insurgents, accused the Myanma Tatmadaw of violating human rights of the citizens and of oppressing, torturing and killing the people through various means ...." They "came to believe and accept whatever was told by the terrorist insurgents without question because they had been completely caught in the propaganda act of those who dominate the world mass media through their financial power.... For a person not to oppress another on the grounds of his colour, race or religion is the most fundamental of human rights. Those who committed massacres in a most inhuman way on grounds of racism were none other than the KNU terrorist insurgents.... History and the people are witness to who really violates human rights, and oppress and murder the people - the insurgents or the Tatmadaw."] Returnees from Bangladesh Feb. 1: 995 persons from 203 households were repatriated to the three Rakhine reception camps on Jan. 31, bringing the total to 18,028 persons from 3,954 households since Sept. 22, 1992. 327 persons went to Ngakura, 323 to Pyinphyu, and 305 to Kanyinchaung Camps. "They will soon be sent back to their respective townships." \\ The 13th Meeting on the repatriation was held Jan. 27 in Cox Bazaar. Myanmar was represented by U Maung Aung, Director-General of the Immigration and Manpower Department, with a delegation of ten, and Bangladeshy by Chittagong District Commissioner Mr. Omar Farouk. The Myanmar delegation visited a Myanmar Buddhist Monastery (Ywagyi Kyaung) on Moheslikhali Island before returning home on Jan. 29. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 5: 609 persons from 135 households "who illegally left for Bangladesh" arrived back at two reception camps Feb. 3, bringing the total to 18,638. (WPD 2/6) Feb. 6: 1,182 persons from 241 households arrived back on Feb. 5, 649 at Ngakhura, 393 at Pyinphyu, and 140 at Kanyinchaung Camps, bringing the total to 19,820. (WPD 2/7, corrected 2/9)) Feb. 8: 429 persons from 96 households returned on Feb. 7, 153 at Ngakhura, 11 at Pyinphyu, and 265 at Kanyinchaung Camps, bringing the total to 20,249. (WPD 2/9) Feb. 10: 568 persons from 119 households returned on Feb. 9, 194 at Ngakhura, 168 at Pyinpyu [sic], and 206 at Kanyinchaung Camps, bringing the total to 20,817. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 12: 294 persons from 66 households returned on Feb. 10, 110 at Ngakhura, 15 at Pyinphyu, and 169 at Kanyinchaung Camps, bringing the total to 21,111. (WPD 2/13) Feb. 15: 178 persons from 48 households returned on Feb. 14, 102 at Ngakhura, 38 at Pyinphyu, and 38 at Kanyinchaung Camps, for a total of 21,289. (WPD 2/16) Feb. 19: 64 persons from 14 households returned on Feb. 17, for a total of 21,353. (WPD 2/20) Prisoners Released Feb. 11: 50 men were released from Myingyan Jail, their terms being reduced in accordance with SLORC Declaration No. 11/ 92. (WPD 2/12) Feb. 12: 57 men were released from Myingyan Jail. (WPD 2/13) Feb. 17: 50 men were released from Myingyan Jail. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 18: 50 men were released from Myingyan Jail. (WPD 2/19) Feb. 19: 47 men were released from Myingyan Jail. (WPD 2/20) Doctors Refresher Course Feb. 12: The Special Refresher Course for Doctors No. 4 concluded with an address by SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt, dealing largely with the National Convention. "He dealt with the attempts of some neo-colonialist countries and their minion organizations and broadcasting stations to disparage and disrupt the National Convention, and some rumours that the Convention has been postponed for some delegates' opposition against the State Law and Order Restoration Council Government, and that 'Hundreds of delegates protest to the demand for giving leadership role to the Tatmadaw in national politics', among other things. "He also spoke of other attempts disruptive to the National Convention including concocted broacasts of some foreign broadcasting stations, allegations of human rights violations in Myanmar Naing-Ngan and suppression of non-Buddhist devotees of other religions and the formation of 'Myanmar Naing-Ngan Amyothar Kaung-si' by leftist and rightist terrorist organizations that have gathered in the country on the other side. "He spoke of a piece of information he heard that certain elements are planning to approach international organizations, NGOs, foreign governments and political parties to give pressure to the State Law and Order Restoration Council politically and take economic sanctions against the country...." He went on to discuss in detail a variety of dam projects. (WPD 2/12) Nobel Prizewinners' Protest Feb. 19: Speaking to officials in Myitkyina, SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt said that while the SLORC was developing border areas, "there are outside interferences. One of these, he said, concerns the activities of seven persons who are said to be Noble [sic] Prize winners, who, after entering a neighbouring country and meeting terrorist groups, at terrorist camps of Myanmar Naing-Ngan border areas are organizing political movements with false allegations that Myanmar violates human rights. He declared that they are trying to create difficulties for Myanmar politically using a neighbouring country as stepping stone...." (WPD 2/20) Feb. 20: Speaking to a group of teachers, SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt "stated that a group of persons said to be Noble [sic] Prize winners are doing political activities under the pretext of human rights joining terrorist groups in Myanmar after entering through neighbouring country. This, he declared, must be regarded as an untoward act as their group sided with terrorist groups and perpetrated acts under the pretext of human rights to disrupt prevalence of law and order and peace and tranquillity in Myanmar...." (WPD 2/21) Feb. 21: Editorial: Never-deviating stand. ["What the perpetrators of false allegations intend is to create difficulties for Myanmar Naing-Ngan politically and economically. What they are doing, in fact is interfering in Myanmar's internal affairs, spreading false allegations that Myanmar violates human rights.... The newest and freshest allegations have been heard again recently. Seven persons who are said to be Noble [sic] Prize winners, who, after entering a neighbouring country and meeting terrorist groups, at terrorist camps of Myanmar Naing-Ngan's border areas, are reportedly up to their usual tricks - that of making false allegations against Myanmar...."] Feb. 25: Editorial: Strange Bed-fellows. ["A group of people said to be Nobel prize recipients have reportedly gone to meet KNU, ABSDF and other terrorist insurgents in the neighbouring country. Here in Myanmar everybody knows that these terrorist insurgents are no more than killers, thugs, robbers, extortionists, kidnappers, sadists, rapists,...think of all that's worst in the Penal Code and they qualify.... And what greater paradox can one encounter than to have so-called 'peace-prize' recipients nodding heads with confirmed killers and anarchists? Unless of course if the so-called 'peace prize' recipients are not worthy of the name."] NATIONAL CONVENTION National Convention Reconvenes Feb. 1: The National Convention reconvened in Yangon, with a welcoming greeting [see below] from National Convention Convening Work Committee Chairman U Aung Toe. Present were 695 out of 700 delegates. Also present were 12 foreign journalists from the Times of London, ABC (Australia), Reuter, Yomiuri Shimbun, NHK, and the Boston Globe. (WPD 2/2) [Throughout the renewed session, the WPD published pages of photographs of speakers and groups of participants.] Administrative Matters Feb. 1: Travelling and daily allowances were paid the delegates, supervised by Deputy Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Win Tin. Numerous donations of cash were made to the National Convention, and donations in kind made to various institutions to "hail" it. Voluntary labour was also contributed to civic projects in honor of the Convention. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 8: Daily allowances for delegates were disbursed at Kyaikkasan Grounds. "For the delegates who are receiving treatment at Yangon General Hospital," officials "handed over the daily allowances at the hospital. They also spoke words of comfort to them." (WPD 2/9) Feb. 15: Seven days' allowances for delegates were disbursed; one delegate receiving medical treatment at Yangon General Hospital received his allowance there. (WPD 2/16) Specific Delegates Feb. 1: Officials visited National Convention delegate U Hkun Weiza, who has been in Yangon General Hospital since Jan. 31. \\ Two delegates lost their status. Sagaing Division delegate Dr. Maung Maung had his status revoked when he was caught smuggling jade stones on Jan. 25 [see below, under Crime]. U Aung Htoo, a representative of the National League for Democracy from Gangaw Constituency [Magway], was removed as a delegate "according to a submission made by the National League for Democracy." (WPD 2/2) U Aung Toe's Speech Feb. 1: National Convention Convening Work Committee Chairman U Aung Toe greeted the reassembly delegates with a "clarification regarding the programme" [full text]: Distinguished Delegates to the National Convention. First of all, I would like to express my delight at meeting all of you again in good health and I heartily greet you and welcome you. We have all congregated at this meeting hall today so as to greet and welcome all the Distinguished Delegates to the National Convention and also for the purpose of giving a few explanations regarding the programmes for the National Convention which lies before us to be carried out collectively and in harmony. Programme Beginning today, 1st February, 1993, the National Convention is to be continued according to the following programme. (1) Election of the Panel of Chairmen. (2) To first discuss and coordinate matter so as to decide on the chapter headings for the panel discussions so that systematic and comprehensive discussions may be made leading to the framing of the National Constitution. (3) The Distinguished Delegates will have to discuss at length among themselves so as to decide upon the specific chapter headings for discussions; when that is done, further discussions are to be made to arrive at the fundamental principles for each of the respective chapters in the panel discussions. - These are the three main inherent stages in the nature of the work to be carried out. Distinguished Delegates, I shall clarify a bit about the election of the Panel of Chairman, the first task to be carried out. Rights & responsibilities of Panel of Chairmen According to Paragraph 9 of the National Convention Procedures, each category of delegates are to elect five chairmen respectively. The Panel of Chairmen thus chosen will be responsible for supervising the meetings of the respective panel meetings. In addition, they will also be responsible for supervising the plenary meeting of the National Convention as and when the occasion arises. The Chairman and Panel of Chairmen and their rights and responsibilities have been appropriately prescribed in Paragraphs 15 and 16 of the National Convention Procedures. I am sure the Distinguished Delegates have already read these. Hence, coordinations are to be made of your own free will to elect five members each for the Panel of Chairmen who would supervise, in accordance with the National Convention Procedures, panel discussions and the plenary sessions of the National Convention. Election of Chairmen I believe that everything will go smoothly and successfully as our National Convention Convening Work Committee will send three Committee members each to each category of delegates (group) to help supervise in the election of the members of the Panel of Chairmen. Panel-wise selection of five members each for the National Convention Panel of Chairmen will begin this morning in the respective halls. If these elections cannot be completed this morning throughout the afternoon [sic], it will continue tomorrow. Distinguished Delegates, What we have to carry out after the elections for the Panel of Chairmen of the National Convention is for the panels to discuss headings for each chapter. It is believed that the Distinguished Delegates may have arrived at specific chapters essential to be included in the new Constitution as they have had enough time to study. If I am to reiterate, for you to remember, the point regarding the allocation of chapters to be included in the new Constitution, which I presented at the (11-1-93) session of the National Convention. I said thus - "It is found that the difference in the headings contained in the constitutions can be seen not only among different countries but also whenever another Constitution is drawn in the same country. However, even though there may be certain variations in the usage and nomenclature, there are similarities in the concept. Basically, such matters as State structure, fundamental principles of the State, citizenship, rights and responsibilities of the citizens, the Head of State, legislation, administration, judicial matters, the Attorney-General, the Auditor-General, system of election, and constitutional amendment are common to practically all constitutions. Either under one name or another, all these 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." I also presented some headings suitable for discussions which are to be made in accordance with the six guidelines at this National Convention. The headings in my presentation are: - State structure; - Fundamental principles for the State; - The Head of State; - Legislation; - Administration of Justice; - The Tatmadaw; - The Attorney-General and the Auditor-General; - Local government; - Citizens and their fundamental rights and duties; - State employees; - Elections; - Political parties; and - Constitutional amendment. But as I have said on (11-1-93) regarding the allocation of the chapters, the Distinguished Delegates are free to propose any other additional chapters which may be relevant and also those chapters which ought to be excluded may also be excluded. No time limit Distinguished Delegates, After deciding upon the chapter headings to be discussed in the panel discussions, suggestions and proposals made are to be compiled and presented according to procedures already explained. This being a very vital and crucial stage, it is very important that every attention be given to be as systematic as possible, in accordance with the saying that a good beginning presages a successful conclusion. That is why no time limit has been set on how many days will have to be taken for deciding on the chapter headings for the panel discussions. The Distinguished Delegates are to make proposals and suggestions and discuss to their hearts' content. Plenary session We will arrange the plenary meeting of the National Convention only when all the eight groups of delegates have compiled their proposals regarding the chapter headings to be discussed. When the plenary session of the National Convention is held, representatives of each of the respective groups will have the opportunity to present the proposals which have been compiled by each group. That is when all the delegates attending the National Convention will be able to hear the proposals put up by the respective groups. The proposals made by the different groups may not be the same. Just as some of the chapter headings may be identical, there may also be differences. Those headings which are common will be selected while those which are mnot common will be further discussed at length until agreement is reached. Exhaustive discussions In conducting further discussions to arrive at those headings to be accepted at the plenary session, the respective groups will have to submit all valid reasons as to why the chapter proposed should be included. Such discussions may or may not be completed at the plenary session of the National Convention in one day or at one sitting. There may be cases where some groups may wish to take note of proposals made by other groups and consult and discuss these matters within their own groups so as to compare them with their own proposals and engage in comprehensive discussions. The point is to discuss and coordinate at length so that those chapter headings which the eight panel groups have satisfactorily discussed may be accepted by all present at the plenary session of the National Convention in accordance with the six guidelines (of the National Convention). In this way, we will get the list of chapter headings decided unanimously. When the list of chapter headings has been confirmed the panel discussions will deal with the first chapter given in the list so as to arrive at the fundamental principles regarding that particular chapter. Patience, tolerance and magnanimity All possible arrangements will be made so as to provide the Distinguished Delegates with sufficient time for comprehensive discussions and to effect appropriate modifications as required so as to arrive at fundamental principles regarding each of the chapters. Political parties will also be able, if they wish, to consult their respective party organizations for conducting these comprehensive discussions. In order to carry out such consultations and discussions the Distinguished Delegates may do so while residing at the hostels in the Kyaikkasan Grounds or if they wish to return to their respective areas they may do so according to their own arrangements. It is essential that the Distinguished Delegates engage in these discussions with patience, tolerance and a mutual sense of magnanimity so that the fundamental principles for each of the respective chapters may be agreed on with unanimity. Step by step Only when all the Distinguished Delegates have agreed upon the fundamental principles for the first chapter, will discussions go on to the second chapter on the list. In the same way, the remaining chapters on the list will be dealt with. The National Convention Work Committee has on its part made all arrangements according to the guidelines of the National Convention Convening Commission to expedite comprehensive discussions by Distinguished Delegates for the formulation of the fundamental principles for framing the Constitution which is of overwhelming importance to the State. We will do everything within our power to satisfy all the needs of the Distinguished Delegates regarding management matters. Distinguished Delegates, Chairman of the National Convention Convening Commission Maj-Gen Myo Nyunt on 9 January remarked in his address that the framing and 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. Hence, all of us here will have to place these responsibilities in the fore as the top priority national duty and attend to it in all seriousness. In conclusion, I wish to urge one and all to assume this auspicious national duty with feelings of honour and gladness and carry out all tasks for full success with mutual understanding and close consultations unitedly. (WPD 2/2) Panels of Chairmen Feb. 1: The eight different categories of delegates met in separate rooms at 10 am, and chose the following members of the panel of chairmen: (1) Political Parties U Tun Yin Law (National Unity Party) Daw May Than Lwin (Shan Nationalities League for Democracy) U Philip Sam (Wa National Development Party); U Li Kwe Chin (Shan State Kokang Democratic Party U Tha Zan Hla (National League for Democracy) (2) Representatives-elect U James Bond (Kokang Democracy and Unity Party) U San Tha Aung (Mro or Khamti National Solidarity Organization) U Daniel Aung (Lahu National Development Party) U Maung Gyi (Union Pa-Oh National Organization) U Mahn Tin Aung Than (Union Karen League) (3) National races U Kyi Nyunt (Yangon) U Khin Maung Si (Ayeyarwady) U Naing San Shein (Mon) U Mya Sein (Mandalay) U Mahn Ohn Maung (Kayin) (4) Peasants U Kan Nyunt (Hkamti, Sagaing) U Sai Tint Aung (Hsenwi, Shan) U Maung Maung Thein (Myingyan, Mandalay) U Thein Lwin (Myaungmya, Ayeyarwady) U Tin Maung Kyaw (Yesagyo, Magway) (5) Workers U San Tin (Pathein West, Ayeyarwady) U Soe Maung (Chauk, Magway) U Shwe Than (Dala, Yangon) U Bo Myint (Monywa, Sagaing) U Tin Oo (Meiktila, Mandalay) (6) Intelligentsia and technocrats U Khin Zaw (film director) U Hla Myint (Head of Office) U Ba Han (Director) U Tin Maung (Director-General) U Aung Than (Rector) (7) State service personnel U Kyi Aye (Ministry of Planning & Finance) U Khin Maung Htoo (Ministry of Transport) Lt-Col. Thike Tun (Ministry of Defence) U Tun Shwe (Ministry of Labour) U Arnt Maung (Ministry of Religious Affairs) (8) Other invitees U Ko (retired Ambassador) U Za Khung Ting Ring (Kachin State Special Region) U Sai Aung Tun (retired headmaster) Dr. Maung Maung Sein (Adviser at the Ministry of Health) U Wan Tin (retired Commissioner) In addition, the National Convention Convening Work Committee assigned the following as members of the Panel of Chairmen: U Tin Tun U Myo Thant Dr. Thaung Myint Dr. Than Nyunt U Aye Thwin (WPD 2/2, corrected 2/3) Panels Discuss Chapter Headings Feb. 2: Following a meeting at which Work Committee Chairman U Aung Toe briefed members of the Panel of Chairmen, the Panel discussions on chapter headings got under way. [The WPD gave the names of persons participating in discussions at each of the eight panels, but no further details.] (WPD 2/3) Feb. 3: The discussions continued [participants named]. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 4: The discussions continued [participants named]. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 5: The discussions continued [participants named]. Delegates of peasants, intelligentsia and technocrats, State service personnel, and invited delegates, "who have not yet presented compiled suggestions and proposals for the chapter headings to be included in framing the State Constitution," continued discussion. "They decided on fixing the dates to put forward compiled suggestions and proposals." (WPD 2/6) Feb. 8: Four categories of delegates (political parties, workers, State service personnel, and other invited) continued to discuss on compiling suggestions suggestions and proposals for chapter headings ...." [participants named]. State service personnel continued discussions, and then "selected ten delegates to compile the suggestions and proposals on chapter headings" [names]. (WPD 2/9) Feb. 9: Five categories of delegates (political parties, representatives-elect, peasants, State service personnel, and other invited) continued discussions [participants named]. The representatives-elect adopted a draft without amendments. (WPD 2/10) Feb. 10: Three categories of delegates (national races, State service personnel, and other invited) continued discussions [participants named]. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 11: The political parties delegates continued their discussions [participants named]. (WPD 2/12) Feb. 15: The Panel of Chairmen of State service personnel delegates "held discussions in connection with chapter headings," and named representatives [named] to submit proposals to the plenary session. On Feb. 8, the workers delegates named representatives [named] to submit proposals to the plenary session. (WPD 2/16) Feb. 16: National Convention Convening Work Committee Chairman U Aung Toe met with the Panel of Chairmen, and "explained the compiling of proposals regarding the chapter headings in framing the constitution." (WPD 2/17) Feb. 19: The National Convention Convening Management Committee met. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 22: The Convening Work Committee met "to fix dates for convening the plenary sessions of the National Convention, to draw up the agenda for the plenary session days and to elect members of the panel of chairmen to serve as alternate chairmen." (WPD 2/23) Plenary Session on Chapter Headings Feb. 24: The National Convention Plenary Session opened in the Central Meeting Hall of the President's Residence on Ahlon Road, presided over by Alternate Chairman U Tha Zan Hla (National League of Democracy), and attended by Convening Commission Chairman Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt, U Aung Toe, and other officials. 686 delegates attended. U Tha Zan Hla said that suggestions and proposals made by the panels would be presented, and then "overall assessment on these submitted proposals and suggestions of the delegates will be made to be able to allocate chapter headings suitable to be included in the Constitution." Then, "each of the categories of delegates groups submitted its compiled suggestions and proposals." Political Parties Delegates (1) U Aung Shwe, Chairman of the National League for Democracy (NLD) and Hluttaw representative for Mayangonn-1, proposed 22 chapter headings on behalf of the NLD. [WPD, for each proposer, lists many or all of the proposed chapter headings, with summaries of the proposer's comments on only a few of them. We will not seek to repeat the lists, which vary little in anything but order, but will report portions of the comments that seem of more than routine significance--HCMacD.] On Chapter 2, State Structure, he said that all the national races have to continue to live united, and "the power of unity must be preserved not to let it disintegrate." On Chapter 6, Government, he said that government "must also be an organ in which the public can have faith and confidence." Once security of life is achieved, "wide and extensive coordinations, based on democratic principles in conformity with multiparty democracy system" are to be made. On Chapter 10, The Tatmadaw, he said that "it is still needed for the Tatmadaw to be involved, in a way, in the national politics and under the prevailing conditions, it has to continue shouldering the duties of the State...." (2) U Sai Ai Paung, General Secretary of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy proposed 15 chapter headings and an Introduction. On Chapter 1, State Structure, he said "the State to be built up must be the Pyidaungsu (Union) State, not any other kind, and that is why the heading of Chapter 1 is entitled 'Structure of Union State.'" On Chapter 10, Members States of the Government, "he stated matters on states' constitutions which will not be contrary to the Constitution in each member state; relationships among member states; relationships between the State and each member state; rights and duties of each member state; and duties of each member state for the State. And he also stated that under that chapter heading, with regards to the roles of member states, formation of each member state, Autonomous Region of a particular national race, National Area of the nationalities will be discussed." Under Chapter 11, General Provisions, he noted "a coat of arms for each national group." Also "discussions will also lead to formulation of Right to Recall when a person elected by the people, who misuses his rights and authorities and acts only for his selfish gains, is not desired by the people; formulation of Popular Initiative rights and for holding Referendum." The meeting then recessed for lunch. After lunch, presentations continued. (3) U Tun Yi, General Secretary of the National Unity Party, proposed 19 chapter headings including an Introduction. "He emphasized that all delegates must essentially pay attention to avoid copying foreign constitutions, not to be under pressure or under control of external forces," and quoted U Aung Toe on the need for a constitution "'which would be in harmony... with the country's natural habitat, historical background, politics, economy, social conditions as well as cultural and traditional heritage.'" On Chapter 6, "Government," he "cited the abilities of a good and firm Government that would pass any test and recalling the Government from its rights when the people do not accept it any more." By including a Commission for Inspecting Public Services in Chapter 9, he said, "interests of the State and the Citizens can be protected...and at the same time wastages, briberies and corruptive acts in State and Cooperative-owned economic organizations can be prevented." On Chapter 10, Member States, he said "there will be member states or states in the main State." On Chapter 13, Tatmadaw's Role, "he objectively pointed out that Tatmadaw is essential for the interest of the nation and national economy.... He considered deeply that the Tatmadaw should be able to participate in the national political leadership role." (4) U Maung Maung Ngwe, Chairman of the Union Pa-Oh National Organization, proposed presented 19 chapter headings and an Introduction. On the Introduction, he said "there should be expressed the nationalities living together through thick and thin, the fighting of imperialist and anti-fascism and in the struggle for independence...." On Chapter 14, The Tatmadaw, he said that Tatmadaw is used to build to be strong and modernized according to finance in the developed and developing countries and formed systematically in order that independence and sovereignty would not be lost." He called for discussions "on the role of the Tatmadaw, a national organization, to enable it to shoulder a national duty...." The meeting then recessed for 20 minutes. (5) U Anthony Su, Chairman of the Shan State Kokang Democratic Party, proposed 18 chapter headings. He said that Chapter 8, The Rights of Nationalities, "has been included to protect and to promote the literature, cullture and traditions of the nationalities." Chapter 18, Ministry of Nationalities, "has been selected with intent to settle the issue of nationalities. The emergence of this heading would greately contribute towards strengthening national sovereignty." He concluded by wishing, "through metta, for solidarity of our national brethren, 135 kinds of nationalities ...." (6) U Maung Pein (a) U Khin Maung Pein, General Secretary of the Mro (a) Hkami National Solidarity Organization, proposed 18 chapter headings. On Chapter 1, The State, "since the State is made up of 135 national races it should be a Federal Republic." On Chapter 4, Supreme Body {to lead the country}, he said "whether it should be elected from the two chambers of Hluttaw or be made up of leaders of nationalities and leaders of the State who are highly respected by the people is to be discusssed...." He concluded by saying that "the country suffered whenever the Hluttaw disrupted. Therefore the forthcoming Constitution should be a firm one that can be accepted by all the people and which will last till our future generations to come." (7) U Yaw Aye Hla, of the Lahu National Development Party, proposed 19 chapters including a Preamble. On Chapter 3, Fundamental Principles, he said the Constitution should "be based upon the genuine Union; to fully protect the cause of democracy and human rights; to ensure equality for the nationalities of the country in rights relating to political, economic and social matters; to form states of the Union not on the basis of geographical conditions but on that of the people; to grant full autonomy to the States and formation of the Union Government through equal co-operation between States." On Chapter 12, The Tatmadaw, he said "the nation will be strong only if the Tatmadaw is strong and the Tatmadaw is a vital organization under the Ministry of Defence." (8) U Saw Daniel, General Secretary of the Union Kayin League, proposed 30 chapter headings including a Preamble. On Chapter 13, Ministry of Nationalities, he said the "Kayin nationals cherish a peaceful life and they also want to live peacefully with other national races in weal and woe .... They are willing to work for the good of the country not in words but in deeds .... He then proposed a Chapter 14, Division of Kayin National Affairs. On Chapter 15, State Advisory Body, "he said it was aimed at bringing about respect to and abidance of the Constitution and giving counsels in cases that would arrive when harmony is lacking in the distribution of power among various States and the Union Government, when there is no equality and justice in the Government's tackling of the nationalities issues, and when the Government needs advice in international relations." On Chapter 30, Bicameral Hluttaw, he pointed out "the need for adopting bicameral system in this Constitution and said the chapter had been submitted to enable the delegates to discuss how Upper Chamber and Lower Chamber of the Hluttaw would be designated, the tenure of each Chamber, how the Chamber of Nationalities would be designated, and how Hluttaw rules and procedures would be practiced." The first day of the plenary session concluded at 2.35 pm. [numerous photos of speakers and delegates] (WPD 2/25) Feb. 25: The second day of the Plenary Session opened with 689 delegates present, presided over by Alternate Chairman U Mahn Tin Aung Than of the Union Karen League. (9) U Yang Kyin Kan of the Kokang Democracy and Unity Party proposed 15 chapter headings, including a Preamble. On Chapter 8, Citizens and their Rights and Duties, he proposed a citizenship law in which "rights, obligations and duties were to be provided to have equality among citizens, human strata and nationalities." On Chapter 13, The Tatmadaw, he cited two reasons for including the Tatmadaw role in the Constitution, "the historical records which showed how the Tatmadaw played a role in the affairs of the State in the course of the history, and for unsteady political situations, not like those that are taking place in other countries." (10) U Marcos (a) U Sai Lon of the Wa National Development Party proposed 22 chapters and 23 headings, including a Preamble. On Chapter 8, States and Organization of New States, he said it was suggested "to be able to make considerations over whether it was needed to reorganize the states of the Union suited to the objective conditions, significant aspects and the wishes of the respective national races." On Chapter 12, Tatmadaw's Role, he said "there were times when Tatmadaw had to take over the power of the State due to unavoidable circumstances," and "he presented that forming and organizing of regional security regiment or armed forces in each local government or member state in order to be able to join hands with the Tatmadaw in crushing internal and external dangers should be considered." Hluttaw Representatives-elect Delegates (11) Dr. Hmu Thang, representative-elect for Thangtlan [Chin State] proposed 16 chapter headings including a Preamble. He said he represented the elected representatives-elect and 7 independent representatives-elect of the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy, National Unity Party, Union Pa-Oh National Organization, Shan State Kokang Democratic Party, and Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization. On Chapter 6, Head of State, he said "that as Myanmar Naing-Ngan is going to be built up as a Republic, not as Capitalist or Feudalist [corrected to "Monarchist or Dictatorship" - 2/27], the President is the Head of State." He submitted two systems of electing the President: to be elected by Hluttaw in Parliamentary Government or Cabinet Government and to be elected by the people of the country in Republic Government. He also presented variants of having Executive Power exercised by the President alone or by one or two Vice-Presidents under the President. He also submitted "defining qualifications of the would-be President, duties and authorities of the President, criticisms that can be made towards the President, whether or not to exercise the system of electing Alternate President, gaining confirmation of the member states on the post of President elected by the Hluttaw." On Chapter 12, The Tatmadaw, he said that the Tatmadaw "was essential or necessary for national well-being" and "stands firmly on the side of people and national interests." Thus its "significant role" should be acknowledged. Under Chapter 15, Transitional Period, he said that during the transitional period between the coming into effect of the new Constitution and the election of a new President and government, the present SLORC "which is taking charge of the three State powers will have to continue to do so." The session then adjourned for lunch, resuming in the afternoon. (12) U Maung Maung, National League for Democracy representative-elect for Bilin-2, proposed 22 chapter headings including a Preamble, compiled by the NLD delegates in the representatives-elect category. He spoke of "the establishment of a future democratic State," and of "democratic affairs in the future and the principles to be followed without fail in framing the constitution," so that the "personality of constitution would become complete." He also spoke of "the concept and objectives of the entire national people" and "what guarantees were given to the people." Under Chapter 4, The Hluttaw, he said "that Hluttaw means the place where Sovereignty of the People rest as all the people entrust it to the State; the uniformity and unity of Hluttaw both in body and mind, not misusing the sovereign power, giving priority to the needs of the people are the most essential; all have to select the kind of Hluttaw that will be most appropriate to the real situations of the country; characteristics of all nationalities, cultural mores, geographical situations and environment, internal and external subversions and communications etc; selecting one Hluttaw or two Hluttaws...." Under Chapter 10, The Tatmadaw, he said "it is still needed for the Tatmadaw to be involved, in a way, in the national politics and under the prevailing conditions, it has to continue shouldering the tasks of the State." On Chapter 11, Nationalities' Affairs, he said that the spirit of Panglong "has been still vigorous, and this contributed to smooth accomplishment of all matters," and thus the chapter was needed. On Chapter 12, the Economic System, he said economic policy was important "at this time when the change-over from one system to another has taken place," and that "'Political democracy and economic democracy must go hand-in-hand.'" On Chapter 14, Masses and Classes, he said that peasants, workers, and all strata "are contributory to the benefits of the State," and their affairs should not be neglected. He concluded by saying that this was only "brief clarification" on why the chapters should be included, and "would present detailed discussions made by the National League for Democracy." Nationalities Delegates (13) U Maung Maung of Yangon Division and U Sai Hkam Kmat of Shan State (North), on behalf of the nationalities delegates, presented 17 chapter headings and a Preamble. On Chapter 2, Fundamental Principles of the State, U Maung Maung said there should be included "the objective of the State, the political, economic and social systems to be adopted, cultural mores, religious belief, foreign policy, tne noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality, the affairs of peasants and workers and the equality of rights for the senior citizens and minors and women as well as non-disintegration of the Union; non-disintegration of national unity; and perpetuity of sovereignty." On Chapter 7, The Tatmadaw, he said that though not included in former Myanmar Constitutions, "it was needed for the Tatmadaw to invariably take part in the national political leadership of the future State, under the objective conditions of the State and historical background and under prevailing political, economic and social conditions." He reviewed Tatmadaw history, and its saving of the country after independence, in 1962, and in 1988, saying that it "had never held on to power for a long time," and that "it played a leading role in the issues which the government had not been able to handle." "Therefore, the role of the Tatmadaw should be mentioned in the Constitution to enable it to carry out its tasks specifically, in accordance with law, in the leadership role of national politics in the future state." U Sai Hkam Hmat then said, on Chapter 13, Political Parties, that Myanmar history shows how parties "accused and attacked one another due to their prejudices and this resulted in disintegration of national unity." Therefore, "a multi-party democracy gives no full assurances that it could settle the issues on national unity as well as on economic, administrative and social matters." Thus the heading should be included "for the role of the parties, their formations and points that would make null and void the elections to be discussed." On Chapter 16, Transitory Period, he said a provision was needed "that requires the government which will come into being under the new Constitution to accept the activities, laws, rules, orders, notifications, announcements, policies, guidelines, duties and rights of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, performed, enacted and passed before the emergence of the Constitution." The SLORC "shall continue to hold State power after the enactment of the new Constitution and before the emergence of a government under the Constitution." Peasants Delegates (14) U Sam Daung Di (Putao, Kachin State) and U Phone Kyaw (Ayeyarwady Division), on behalf of the peasants delegates, proposed 24 chapter headings. U Sam Daung Di said, on Chapter 9, the Tatmadaw, that "it will also be necessary for the Tatmadaw to take part in the national political leadership role of the future state." On Chapter 10, National Defence Council, he reviewed the repeated salvation of the State by the Tatmadaw which "has strictly followed the orders of the governments and it is made up of sons and daughters of the Union." Therefore, "a supreme body made up of the delegates and the leaders of the Tatmadaw will be necessary to stand as a political force which safeguards the national interests - unity among political forces and building up national unity - in the future Myanmar," which should be formed under the title "'national defence council.'" On Chapter 17, Rights and Duties of Peasants, he said that 85% of the population are engaged in agriculture, producing half the national income, and one quarter of the GNP. "The country will need foreign exchange to turn it into an agro-based industrialized country." Therefore, he said, "duties and rights of the peasants...should be allocated in the Constitution as the peasants constitute a majority of the total population and are the main productive forces in the cause of gaining national income and foreign exchange and form the basis for development of the foundation of national economy." The second day of the Plenary Session adjourned at 3 pm. (WPD 2/26) Feb. 26: The third day of the Plenary Session opened with 690 delegates, presided over by Alternate Chairman U Nai San Shein (Mon State) of the nationalities delegates group. Workers Delegates (15) Dr. Myo Thant Tin (Ahlon Township) and U Sum Lut Naw (Myitkyina Township) on behalf of the workers' delegates proposed 19 chapter headings. Under Chapter 3, Fundamental Principles of the State, they said they included a political system "that fully complies with the life and wishes of nationalities in entirety," preservation of unity and the Union, nurturing of youths and students, "how national tasks will be assigned to the Tatmadaw and how stipulations will be provided so as to make the Tatmadaw...into a solidified, sole Tatmadaw," "how genuine democratic rights and duties to be enjoyed by the nationals, compatible with the traditions and customs of the nation, would be protected," how "regional government" would be provided, and "which foreign policy would be practiced." On Chapter 9, the Tatmadaw, they "expounded 'a concrete force' is essential for constructing human society which is blessed with physical and mental well-being and for that people wish to live in [sic]. The force, they said, can be found only within and so as to rally the internal strength, Pyithu Tatmadaw, that permanently remains loyal both to the public and to the Constitution will be needed." On Chapter 13, State Employees, they said that "only when the chapter on them is included in the Constitution, would they, clear of party politics, be able to perform their assigned duties with consciousness of duty and loyalty in a new democratic State...." On Chapter 18, Transitory Provisions, they said that "for the period from coming into effect of the new Constitution to the time of first Hluttaw session, it will be needful for the State Law and Order Restoration Council to continue to safeguard the sovereignty of the State in accordance with provisions already approved...." Intelligentsia and Technocrat Delegates (16) U Thein Naing (Professor of History at Pathein Degree College) on behalf of the intelligentsia and technocrat delegates, proposed 25 chapter headings including a Preamble. These delegates are "made up of artistes and intellects in the fields of medical science, literature, technology, statistics, economics, law and arts and science subjects." He said the discussions sought "chapter headings that will ensure the long-lasting of the Union of Myanmar as long as the world exists...." On Chapter J, Tatmadaw's Role, he said that "deserving national political leadership role should be entrusted to the Tatmadaw," and this role "should be allocated in the Constitution...to enable it to participate in the national political leadership role." State Service Personnel Delegates (17) U Kyaw Win (Ministry of Culture) on behalf of State service personnel delegates, proposed 17 chapter headings. On Chapter 2, Fundamental Principles, he "mentioned about putting emphases on the Three Main National Causes...; including political, economic, cultural and national defence matters keeping up with the times and for the benefit of the people...." Under Chapter 7, the Tatmadaw, "he spoke of the need to include provisions on how the Tatmadaw shall participate in the national political leadership role...; in safeguarding the Constitution, in promoting the worldly values of justice, liberty and equality; in making the genuine multi-party democracy flourish and in dealing with the international issues ...." Under Chapter 12, Public Servants, he "stressed the need to include provisions... for turning out qualified public servants and for the smooth running of the State machinery." Other Invited Delegates (18) U Chan Lan (Kachin State special region 1), on behalf of the other invited delegates category, proposed 24 chapter headings and a Preamble. On Chapter 4, Fundamental Principles of the State, he dealt with "the goal of the State; the flourishing of worldly values...based on genuine democracy; promotion of genuine democratic practice;...ownership of land and natural resources by the State;...freedom in the practise of nationalities literature and culture and mores; State support for promotion of literature and culture of nationalities; religious freedom;...." On Chapter 9, The Executive, he said "that the sharing of power between the Union Government, local government, and special regional governments if they are to be formed must be discussed." On Chapter 11, the Tatmadaw, he said "there should be provisions...for enabling the Tatmadaw to participate in the national political leadership role of the future State. The future of organizations which are carrying out activities for peace in cooperation with the Tatmadaw should be discussed under the heading...." On Chapter 20, Development of Border Areas and National Races, he said that "to bring about development of border areas and national races is an important matter. This will help bring about harmonious development of all the national races and strengthen national unity." Under Chapter 23, State Flag, State Seal, National Anthem, Capital of the State, National Flower, National Bird and Official Language, he said that "The capital of the State is to be designated and a language which is common to all the national races is to be prescribed as the official language.... We would like to discuss whether we would like to designate national flower and national bird...." The Plenary Session then adjourned until March 3. The meeting was covered by Mr. Sonny Lim from Singapore Broadcasting Corporation, who interviewed the delegates. (WPD 2/27) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Feb. 2: Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi to discuss a coming Philippine trade delegation to Myanmar. German Ambassador Dr. Baron von Marschall called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/3) Feb. 3: The Philippine Ambassador called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. The German Ambassador called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 4: The Philippine Ambassador called on Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 5: Japanese Ambassador Tomoya Kawamura called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Indian Ambassador Mr. G. Parthasarathy called on Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung. UNDP Resident Representative Jehan Raheen called on Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung. (WPD 2/6) Feb. 9: Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/10) Feb. 11: Korean Ambassador Jung Hwan Kim called on Minister for Industry-1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung. (WPD 2/12) Feb. 15: The Korean Ambassador called on Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe, and on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (WPD 2/16) Feb. 16: The Philippine Ambassador called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, on Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, and on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. Korean Ambassador Jung Hwan Kim called on Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung, on Minister for Transport Maj-Gen. Thein Win, and on Minister for Co-operatives Maj-Gen. Mya Thinn. (WPD 2/17) Feb. 17: The Korean Ambassador called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. Philippine Ambassador Ms. Rosalinda V. Tirona called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 18: The Korean Ambassador called on Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha, and on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (WPD 2/19) Feb. 19: The Korean Ambassador called on Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, and on Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min. Belgian Ambassador Xavier R. Van Migem called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 22: The Korean Ambassador called on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint, on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein, and on Minister for Construction U Khin Maung Yin. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamed Hassan Ghanem called on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 2/ 23) Feb. 23: Korean Ambassador Jung Hwan Kim called on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen. Kyaw Ba, on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein. The Egyptian Ambassador called on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint. (WPD 2/24) Feb. 26: The Korean Ambassador called on Minister for Labour Maj-Gen. Aye Thoung. (WPD 2/27) New Myanmar Ambassadors Feb. 4: Myanmar has appointed U Set as new Myanmar Ambassador to China. (WPD 2/ 4) // Feb. 19: Ambassador U Set left for China. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 5: Myanmar has appointed U Sein Lwin as new Myanmar Ambassador to Malaysia. (WPD 2/5) // Feb. 25: Ambassador U Sein Lwin left for Malaysia. (WPD 2/26) Feb. 11: U Phone Myint on Feb. 9 presented credentials to King Bhumibol Adulyadej in Bangkok as new Myanmar Ambassador to Thailand. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 26: Myanmar has appointed U Aung Phone, Myanmar Ambassador to Italy, to be concurrently Myanmar Ambassador to Portugal. (WPD 2/26) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Feb. 4: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe accepted the credentials of Mr. Jung Hwan Kim as new Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Myanmar. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 5: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe accepted the credential of Mr. Eero Salovaara as new Finnish Ambassador to Myanmar. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 24: The Myanmar Government has approved the nomination of Mr. Blaise Godet as new Swiss Ambassador to Myanmar. Ambassador Godet was born in 1947, and graduated from the University of Neuchatel. He joined the Department of Foreign Affairs in 1974. He is concurrently accredited as Swiss Ambassador to Thailand, and is resident in Bangkok. He is married with two children. (WPD 2/24) Myanmar-Shri Lanka Relations Feb. 4: Myanmar-Shri Lanka Relations, by the Shri Lanka Ambassador in Myanmar. [Traditional religious relations between the two countries detailed.] INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Workshops Feb. 16: A Workshop on drafting National Health Plan was opened by Minister for Health Rear-Adm. Than Nyunt. He said that the health sector could "contribute towards moral and physical well-being of the people and all citizens in good health would be able to carry out national defence duties." The National Health Plan should become "a health system in conformity with political and economic conditions in the country as instructed by the Chairman of the National Health Committee [SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt]," and that the plans "should be drafted bearing in mind cultural traditions and social and economic conidtions of the country." WHO Resident Representative Dr. Klaus Wagner also spoke; representatives were present from the Ministry of Health, and from WHO, UNICEF, and UNDP. (WPD 2/17) Feb. 22: A 5-day Workshop on the Formulation and Appraisal of Forestry Programmes and Projects opened at the Central Forestry Development Training Centre in Hmawbi, under Myanmar and FAO auspices. (WPD 2/23) Feb. 25: A Workshop on Proper Breastfeeding opened under Ministry of Health and UNICEF auspices. Minister for Health Rear-Adm. Than Nyunt said "that research carried out in Myanmar more than thirty years ago revealed that 93% of babies were exclusively breast-fed and 63% of mothers started feeding their babies within 24 hours after birth. He further mentioned that 85% of babies were on demand feeding and 76% had weaning foods introduced only after six months of age." Failure to breastfeed properly leads to diarrhoeal diseases and malnutrition. (WPD 2/26) Foreign Donations Feb. 15: Chairman Mr. Low Kim Yong of Golden Glory Co. of Singapore donated 5 wheel-chairs worth US$37,000, 41 TV sets, and a video deck to the Leprosy Hospital at Madaya Twp. [Yangon]. (WPD 2/16) Feb. 16: The British Embassy donated computer text books to the Yangon Institute of Computer Science and Technology. (WPD 2/17) Myanmar Donations Feb. 3: Myanmar has donated 500 tons of rice for earthquake victims in Flores Island, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia; the rice was delivered Jan. 29. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 4: Buddhist Missionary Sayadaw Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika Bhaddanta Uttamasara donated 508 sets of robes for Theravada Sangha members in India and Bangladesh. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 19: Myanmar has donated K45,000 worth of cattle vaccine, produced in Myanmar to protect against haemorrhagic septicaemia, to Sudan, in accordance with a request from the UN Secretary General. (WPD 2/20) Buddhist Shrine in Nepal Feb. 16: Myanmar, "with the guidance of the State Law and Order Restoration Council," on Feb. 11 leased two plots of land, 120-metre square and 80-metre square, for the construction of Sasanika buildings in Lumbini Garden, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in Nepa. The leases were signed in Kathmandu by Myammar Ambassador to Nepal U Hla Myint Oo and the Vice-Chairman of the Lumbini Development Board of Trustees. (WPD 2/17) Feb. 22: "Well-wishers are invited to donate cash in kyats or in foreign exchange, for construction of Sasanika buildings in Lumbini Gardens, Lord Buddha's Birthplace, in Nepal. The Sasanika buildings will be constructed under Myanmar Government's aegis." (WPD 2/23) FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors Feb. 2: Dr. R.B. Hobart, Consultant in Curriculum Development for Strengthening of Technical, Agricultural and Vocational Education sponsored by UNDP and UNESCO called on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein. (WPD 2/3) Feb. 3: UNDCP Director of Operational Activities Mr. Gerd Merrem, stationed in Vienna, and Field Adviser Mr. Jorn Kristensen called on Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein, to discuss anti-narcotics activities jointly carried on by Myanmar, China, and Thailand, and also on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/4) // Feb. 4: They called on Minister for Development of Border Areas and National Races Maj-Gen. Maung Thint. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 9: Asian Regional Representative Mr. David Delapraz of the International Committee of the Red Cross, accompanied by Mrs. Friedrun Medert of the ICRC Yangon Branch Office, called on Myanmar Red Cross Society President Dr. Tin Oo to discuss "artificial limb fitting and production work." (WPD 2/10) Feb. 15: President Mr. Oliver Foot of Orbis International, accompanied by Mission Director Ms. Pina Taomina, called on Minister for Health Rear-Adm. Than Nyunt to discuss cooperation in eye treatment. (WPD 2/16) // Feb. 16: He called on the Chairman of the National Health Committee, SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 2/17) // Feb. 26: Members of Orbis International - Mission Director Ms. Pina Taormina and Medical Director Dr. Chedley Bouzouaya - called on Minister for Health Rear-Adm. Than Nyunt. (WPD 2/27) Feb. 19: Surgeon Dr. Jean Pierre Lechaux and three members of Medicine Du Monde of France called on Minister for Health Rear-Adm. Than Nyunt, and donated surgical equipment. (WPD 2/20) Business Visitors Feb. 9: President Ms. Miriam M. Segal of MMA International Ltd., accompanied by Mr. B. Leser and Mr. Claude Charles, called on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant to discuss "mutual interests in printing work." (WPD 2/10) Feb. 19: Assistant Director Mr. Eui Sup Byun of Pohang Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. of Korea called on Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 23: Mr. Jose Luis U Yulo, Jr., Chairman of the Philippine International Trading Corp. (PITC), with two companions, met with Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin (Chairman of the Foreign Investment Commission), and Minister for Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/24) // Feb. 24: He called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 2/25) // Feb. 25: He called on Minister for Industry-1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Co-operatives U Than Aung. (WPD 2/26) // Feb. 26: He called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi, on Minister for Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, and on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (WPD 2/27) Feb. 25: A German Economic and Trade Mission, headed by Mr. P. Amsinck, called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, and on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/26) // Feb. 26: The mission, headed by Mr. D. Haury [sic], called on Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe; present also were "Managing Director of Myanmar Fritz Werner Industrial Coompany Ltd. of the Ministry U Lwin Swe and Managing Director of Myanma Heavy Industries Lt-Col. Myint Thein Lwin." The mission, headed by Mr. P. Amsinck, called on Minister for Industry-1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (WPD 2/27) // Feb. 27: The mission visited the Myanma Co-op Showcase. (WPD 2/28) Academic Visitors Feb. 3: Prof. A. Patel of France will lecture on surgical and orthopaedic development at the Myanmar Medical Association auditorium on Feb. 5; doctors and senior medical students may attend. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 3: A four-member Chinese archaeological delegation led by Mr. Mao Zhixong, Deputy Director-General of the Cultural Department of Yunnan Province, China, arrived on a two-week visit to see cultural sites including the excavation of Bayintnaung Nandawya. (WPD 2/4) // Feb. 15: The delegation visited Bagan on Feb. 8, and on Feb. 11 went to Mandalay, Sagaing, and Pyin-Oo-Lwin. A dinner was given them in Mandalay on Feb. 14. The delegation returned to Yangon Feb. 15. (WPD 2/16) // Feb. 16: The delegation called on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (WPD 2/17) // Feb. 17: The delegation left. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 8: A Korean delegation led by Mr. Park Hong-Shik, President of the Korea Institute of Industry and Technology Information called on Minister for Industry-2 U Than Shwe. (WPD 2/9) Foreign Journalists Feb. 5: SLORC Information Committee Leader Brig-Gen. Myo Thant met with foreign newsmen covering the National Convention. He answered questions from Mr. Junji Ono of "Bangkok-based Yomiuri newspaper," Mr. Sutin of Reuter News Agency, Mr. Takase Hitoshi of Nihon Denpa News Ltd., and Ms. Mary Kay Magistad of the Boston Globe. (WPD 2/6) Feb. 10: Mr. Ikutaro Ide of Japanese Broadcasting Corporation (NHK) called on Deputy Minister for Information U Soe Nyunt "to discuss shooting a video documentary on wildlife in Myanmar" as part of NKK's The Global Family series. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 11: Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant met with newsmen from Nihon Keizai, based in Bangkok; CTV of Canada; Pacific Press Service, Tokyo; and the Boston Globe of the United States. (WPD 2/ 12) Feb. 19: Senior Correspondent Ms. Amy Balan of the Singapore Business Times called on Minister for Information Brig-Gen. Myo Thant. (WPD 2/20) Chinese Foreign Minister Feb. 1: State Councillor and Minister for Foreign Affairs of China Mr. Qian Qichen, with a 10-member delegation, arrived. On arrival, the Minister issued the following statement [text]: "It give me and my colleagues great pleasure to have this opportunity to visit Yangon at the invitation of the Government of the Union of Myanmar. "China and Myanmar are friendly neighbours sharing a common border of over 2,100 kilometers. Our two peoples have maintained a profound, traditional Pawkphaw-like friendship. Back in the 1950s, our two countries jointly initiated the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. By early 1960s, we concluded a boundary treaty. In recent years, guided by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, our mutually beneficial cooperation in trade and Economic field has developed steadily. I am looking forward to an exchange of views with leaders of Myanmar on our bilateral relations and other issues of common concern during my current visa. I believe my visit will help increase our mutual understanding, strengthen the traditional friendship between our two peoples and push forward our friendly and good-neighbourly relations. "May the Union of Myanmar enjoy prosperity and its people well-being." [Note: "pawkphaw," or cousin, has traditionally been used to describe the special relationship between China and Burma.--HCMacD.] Later, the Minister called on SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 2: The Minister called on SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe. He also toured the Shwedagon Pagoda and the Yangon-Thanlyin Bridge Construction Project. (WPD 2/3) Feb. 3: On Feb. 2 the Minister held discussions with Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw at Thandwe [Sandoway] in Rakhine State. He returned Feb. 3 to Yangon and left for home. (WPD 2/4) Italian Monk Feb. 1: Buddhist Monk U Thanavaro of Santa-Cittarama, Sezzo Romano, Italy, arrived to study Theravada Buddhism for two weeks; he is accompanied by two disciples, one English and one Italian. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 4: He visited the Kaba Aye Pagoda in Yangon; he is staying at State Pariyatti Sasana Tekkatho. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 7: The monk and his disciples visited Buddhist sites in Mandalay. (WPD 2/8) Feb. 9: They visited famous pagodas in Bagan-Nyaung-U and Taunggyi on Feb. 8 and 9. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 12: They visited meditations centres in Yangon, and will leave Myanmar tomorrow. (WPD 2/13) Feb. 13: They departed. (WPD 2/14) US Congressman Feb. 9: United States Congressman Bill Archer, Ranking Minoriy Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, arrived at the invitation of the Myanmar Foreign Ministry, and was welcomed by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyunt Swe. He is accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Sharon Archer, by Congresswoman Nancy L. Johnson and her husband Dr. Theodore Johnson, aand by President Richard G. Quick and Executive Director Marsha P. Lefkovits of the Far East Studies Institute. (WPD 2/ 10) Feb. 10: The delegation called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 14: The delegation called on Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Abel, and on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (WPD 2/15) Feb. 15: The delegation called on SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt. In the afternoon, the delegation left. The delgation had called on Minister for Trade Maj-Gen. Tun Kyi on Feb. 10, and was given a dinner by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. On Feb. 11 it visited Mandalay, where Mandalay LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Kyaw Thun hosted a dinner, and toured Bagan. On Feb. 13 it visited Innlay Region, where Shan LORC Chairman Maj-Gen. Maung Aye hosted a dinner. (WPD 2/16) Vietnamese Silk Delegation Feb. 17: A 5-man Vietnamese delegation headed by Mr. Nguyen Van of the Union of Sericulture Enterprises of Vietnam, Viseri, arrived to "study mulberry plantations and sericulture" until Feb. 22. (WPD 2/18) // Feb. 20: The delegation met with Deputy Minister for Agriculture U Tin Hlaing. (WPD 2/21) Indonesian Coordination Minister Feb. 18: A goodwill delegation led by Indonesian Coordinating Minister Mr. Radius Prawiro arrived, accompanied by his wife. He was received by Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 19: He called on SLORC Chairman Prime Minister General Than Shwe, and on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (WPD 2/20) Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Feb. 18: A 31-member delegation led by Thai Deputy Foreign Minister Dr. Surin Pitusuwan arrived by special aircraft for a meeting of the Joint Boundary Committee. A dinner was hosted by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyunt Swe. (WPD 2/19) // Feb. 19: He visited the Gems Emporium, and called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein, and on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Maj-Gen. Kyaw Ba. Lt-Gen. Chetta Thanajaro, Commandant of the Royal Thai Army 1st Army Area, a member of the delegation, called on Minister for Religious Affairs Maj-Gen. Myo Nyunt. (WPD 2/20) Chinese Civil Affairs Minister Feb. 26: A 5-member Chinese good-will delegation headed by Minister of Civil Affairs Mr. Cui Naifu arrived, at the invitation of Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint. (WPD 2/27) Feb. 27: The Minister and his delegation met with Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min, and with Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint. (WPD 2/28) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Feb. 6: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Planning & Finance Brig-Gen. Win Tin left for Kunming, China, to attend a Feb. 10-12 Seminar on Economic Development and Opening Up China's Southwest Region. // Feb. 15: He returned. He was accompanied by Director-General U Thein Tun of the Energy Planning Department and Assistant Director U Han Tun of the Trade Department. (WPD 2/16) Feb. 6: Director U Aung Kyi and Deputy Director U Maung Maung Yee of the Trade Department left for Thailand to attend a Regional Workshop on the Uruguay Round, beginning Feb. 8, in Bangkok. (WPD 2/7) Feb. 8: Assistant Lecturer U Khin Majng Tun of Pwintpyu Agricultural Institute and Tutor Daw Thin Thin Maw of Domestic Science School in Mandalay left Feb. 6 for Dhaka, to attend a Feb. 8-19 course on Entrepreneurship Development for Rural/ Community Technician Students. (WPD 2/9) Feb. 20: Deputy Director U Tin Maung Win of the Trade Department left for Manila to attend the Feb. 22-26 Workshop on Strategic Issues on Training for International Trade. (WPD 2/21) Feb. 27: Ten people [not named] from the Air Force, the Work Committee Ofice of Development for Border Areas and National Races, Forest Department, Survey Department, Settlement and Land Records Department, and Irrigation Department, left for Nepal to attend a Mar. 1-26 Geographical Information System Professional Training Course, sponsored by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). (WPD 2/28) Religious Delegations Feb. 7: Joint Secretary of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Agga Maha Pandita Sayadaw Bhaddanta Vannasiri left for India on a missionary visit, and will attend religious ceremonies in Uttar Pradesh State on Feb. 12-13. (WPD 2/8) Feb. 27: Lecturer Sayadaw U Dipalawka of Shan State Abbot Training School left for Perth, Australia, for missionary work. (WPD 2/28) Business Delegations Feb. 7: Deputy General Managers U Hla Yi and Maj. Tin Pe and Project Engineer U Khin Maung Win of Myanma Agricultural Product Trading left for Singapore for "pre-shipment survey of machinery parts purchased from Sigma Cable Co Pte Ltd under the paddy storage and milling project. (WPD 2/8) Delegations to Meetings & Events Feb. 10: A Myanmar delegation headed by Ambassador to India U Wynn Lwin attended the 32nd Session of the Asian-African Legal Consultative Committee in Kampala, Uganda, from Feb. 1-6. Other members were Director-General of the Prime Minister's Office U Soe Tint, Directory General U Kyaw Aye of the Attorney-General's Office, and Head of Office U Hla Pe Than of the Foreign Ministry (Secretary). The Heads of Delegation on Feb. 1 "decided to approve Myanmar's resumption of membership...in fulfillment of her desire." Myanmar had withdrawn her membership in 1973 "owing to her inability to fully participate in its activities." (WPD 2/10) Feb. 14: A delegation led by CCDAC Secretary Police Director-General Maj-Gen. San Thein returned from project implementation meetings in China and Thailand under the regional anti-Narcotics agreements. The meeting in Kunming, with China and UNDCP, was held on Feb. 8-9, and that in Chiang Rai, with Thailand and UNDCP, on Feb. 10-11. Accompanying the Director-General were Shan State (East) LORC Chairman Col. Kyaw Win, CCDAC Joint Secretary Police Director (Narcotics Division) Police Col. Ngwe Soe Tun, Head of the CCDAC International Relations Section Police Lt-Col. Hkam Aung, and Maj. Thet Htut of the Ministry of Defence. (WPD 2/15) Nurses to Malaysia Feb. 11: Minister for Labour Maj-Gen. Aye Thoung met with nurses "who are going to work at the Ministry of Health in Malaysia." He urged them to be loyal and to contact the Myanmar Embassy if they had difficulties. "The nurses were educated on political and geographical situations and religious and social affairs of Malaysia at a training course." (WPD 2/12) Delegations Return Feb. 12: Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha returned from Korea and Germany. He and his delegation studied communications and equipment production in Korea (Jan. 25-30) and Germany (Feb. 1-8). (WPD 2/13) Feb. 27: Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin and delegation returned from studying child-care in hospitals and anti-AIDS programmes in Thailand. He was accompanied by Acting Principal Lt-Col. Kyi Thwin of the Defence Services Institute of Medicine, Director (Disease Control) Dr. Aye Kyu of the Health Department, and Assistant Medical Superintendent Dr. Shiel Kaul of the Central Women's Hospital. (WPD 2/28) MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The SLORC made the following appointments, on probation: Feb. 10: Col. Thein Myint (BC/7858) to be Managing Director, Myanma Export and Import Services, Ministry of Trade. (WPD 2/ 11) Feb. 24: Col. Ohn Myint (BC/7946) to be Managing Director, Road Transport, Ministry of Rail Transportation. (WPD 2/25) Transfers Feb. 24: U Aung Thein, Managing Director, Road Transport, to be attached to the Office of Minister, Ministry of Rail Transportation. (WPD 2/25) GOVERNMENT Union Day Message Feb. 12: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe issued a traditional message on the occasion of the 46th Anniversary Union Day [full text]: Esteemed brothers and sisters of all the national races, The 12th of February 1993 is the 46th Anniversary of Union Day. On this auspicious occasion of Union Day which is full of 'Mingala' (auspiciousness), I send this Union Day message to all the brothers and sisters, the national races of the Union, with love and very best wishes for your happiness, peace of mind and well-being. The Union of Myanmar is made up of various national races including Kachins, Kayahs, Kayins, Chins, Bamars, Mons, Rakhines, Shans. The 12th of February 1947 on which the Panglong Agreement was signed as a vivid manifestation of the unity and solidarity among the national races has been designated as "Union Day" and the Union Day celebrations have been held every year with full political essence for 46 years. There are sayings "The country will prosper if there is unity" and "Unity is strength". Just as unity nourishes strength, lack of unity is enervating and may well lead to ultimate destruction. In the Union of Myanmar where national races are residing, the culture, traditions and customs, language and social systems may appear to be different but in essence they are all based on the common blood of Union kinship and Union Spirit like a hundred fruits from a common stem. It was found that the colonialist government finding itself unable to avoid granting independence to the Union of Myanmar, attempted to cause disintegration of unity among the nationalities. However, the nationalities proved through the Panglong Conference and the Panglong Agreement the firmness and strength of national solidarity. During the period after regaining independence, the neo-colonialists interfered whenever they got an opportunity in the internal affairs of the Union with the intention of eroding national unity which is the basic foundation for perpetuation of the Union. In the same way, there are undeniable factrs that they are in the habit of creating threats and dangers. Whatever dangers they may cause, the national races were able to resist and wipe out internal and external threats by intensifying their strength of solidarity and utilizing the courage, qualities and capabilities of cohesive unity. It is firmly believed that these self-same qualities and strengths may be maintained and further promoted in future through the Union Spirit. At a time like this when attempts are being made to create conditions for the dark forces of evil and disruption within and without the country to make their influence felt, all nationalities of the Union as brethren will have to strive to attain maturity and strength in Union Spirit. Now, under the leadership of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, the Government departmental organizations and the people including the Tatmadaw are making all-out efforts for the development of the national races, in particular, the national brethren of the border areas through multi-faceted investments and through intensive construction and development activities. Earnest measures are being taken to mobilize the concerted participation of the national brethren so as to be able to raise the momentum of activities for the development of border areas and the national races. There can be no doubt whatever of the fact that our national races have lived together unitedly in the Union of Myanmar since time immemorial. Throughout the history, there have been venerable traditions of unity among the national races in anti-colonialist and anti-fascist struggles and full mutual confidence and understanding among themselves. Such time-honoured traditions are to be maintained as the worthiest and noblest duty of each and every one of the national races. Therefore, it is the paramount duty of all national races to defend and safeguard as the very soul of their existence, Our Three Main Naitonal Causes - non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and ensuring perpetuity of national sovereignty. On this most auspicious occasion of the 46th Anniversary of Union Day, at a time when the 1993 National Convention is being held on the basis of past and present historical events, the Four Objectives which all national races, must earnestly pay heed are: - - To keep the Union of Myanmar ever united; - For all brethren of the Union to live for ever in peace, sharing prosperity and against all adversity; - To extend active co-operation for the emergence of an enduring Constitution; and - For all the nationalities of the Union to protect the Union against all internal and external dangers joining hands with the Tatmadaw. Hence I would like to emphatically urge all national brethren of the Union to unitedly implement the four objectives of the 46th Anniversary of the Union Day (1993) while maintaining the venerable and time-honoured historical traditions of the Union. (WPD 2/12) Union Day Celebrations Feb. 13: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe's message was read out by SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt in the early morning of Feb. 12, as the Union Flag was conveyed from City Hall to People's Square. The flag had been conveyed through the 13 townships of Yangon Division to the square. [Before 1988, the Union Flag was ceremonially carried through all 14 States and Divisions.--HCMacD] Other ceremonies were held elsewhere in the country. In the evening General Than Shwe and Daw Kyaing Kyaing hosted a dinner for visiting ethnic dance troupes, Government officials, National Convention chairmen, and other Myanmar notables. (WPD 2/13) Planning & Finance Ministry Split Feb. 17: SLORC Notification No. 12/93 of Feb. 17, Reorganization of Ministries, reads [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council, to more effectively conduct the nation's economic development activities, has reorganized the Ministry of Planning and Finance as follows: (1) Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development. (2) Ministry of Finance and Revenue. (WPD 2/18) Ministers & Deputies Appointed Feb. 17: SLORC Declaration No. 1/93 of Feb. 17, Reassignment of Portfolios for Ministers, reads [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council has reassigned the following Ministers in the portfolios as shown: (1) Brig-Gen Abel - Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development (2) Maj-Gen Mya Thinn - Ministry of Home Affairs (WPD 2/18) Feb. 17: SLORC Declaration No. 2/93 of Feb. 17, Appointment of Ministers, reads [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council, to more effectively conduct the nation's economic development activities, has appointed and assigned duties to the following persons as Ministers of the respective Ministries as shown: (1) Brig-Gen Win Tin - Ministry of Finance and Revenue (2) U Than Aung - Ministry of Co-operatives (WPD 2/18) Feb. 17: SLORC Notification No. 13/93 of Feb. 17, Reassignment of Portfolio for Deputy Minister, reads [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council has reassigned Deputy Minister for Trade U Win Naing as Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 17: SLORC Notification No. 14/93 of Feb. 17, Appointment of Deputy Ministers, reads [text]: The State Law and Order Restoration Council has appointed and assigned duties to the following persons as Deputy Ministers of the respective Ministries as shown: (1) Col Aung Thaung - Ministry of Trade (2) U Tin Hlaing - Ministry of Agriculture (WPD 2/18) Drugs Exempted from Duty Feb. 23: Ministry of Finance and Revenue Notification No. 1/93 exempts "the following drugs used basically and the pharmaceutical raw materials used in the production of such drugs" from customs duites and commercial tax: - (1) Acetyl Salicylate; (2) Paracetamol; (3) Chlorpheniramine Maleate; (4) Diazepam; (5) Mebendazole; (6) Amoxycillin; (7) Chloramphenicol; (8) Gentamicin; (9) Co-Trimoxazole; (10) Metronidazole; (11) Mefloquine; (12) Quinine; (13) Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine; (14) Propranolol; (15) Cimetidine; (16) Oral Rehydration Salt; (17) Chlorpromazine; (18) Salbutamol; (19) Intravenous Glucose and Electrolytes Fluids; (20) Phenytoin; (21) Rifampicin; (22) Ethambutol; (23) Isoniazid; (24) Hydrochlorothiazide; (25) Fursemide; (26) Digoxin; (27) Prednisolone; (28) BDG Vaccine (dried) Injection; (29) Diptheria-pertussis-tetanus Vaccine Injection; (30) Hepatitis Vaccine Injection; (31) Measles Vaccine Injection; (32) Poliomyelitis Vaccine Oral; (33) Rabies Vaccine Injection; (34) Tetanus Vaccine Injection; (35) Plague Vaccine Injection; (36) Anti-snake Venom Injection. (WPD 2/24) Drug License Regulations Feb. 23: Ministry of Health Notification No. 2/93 of Feb. 23 provides [full text]: In exercise of the power contained in Chapter XIII section 32 sub-section (b) of the National Drug Law, the Ministry of Health, Government of the Union of Myanmar hereby declares that persons desirous of manufacturing, storing, distributing and selling pharmaceutical raw material or registered drug under Chapter VI section 8 of the said Law shall apply for a licence in accordance with the following procedures: - (1) persons engaged at present in any enterprise for manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of pharmaceutical raw material or registered drug and persons desirous of commencing any such enterprise shall apply for temporary registration with effect from today and before 31st August, 1993; (2) persons operating at present any pharmaceutical enterprise contained in sub-clause (1) shall apply for temporary registration at the relevant Township Food and Drug Supervisory Body; (3) persons desiring of commencing any enterprise contained in sub-clause (1) shall apply for registration to the Central Food and Drug Supervisory Body at the Department of Health, Ministry of Health, with the recommendation of the relevant State/Divisional Food and Drug Supervisory Body; (4) persons operating at present any enterprise contained in sub-clause (1) has [sic] the right to continue operating their enterprise during the period of application for temporary registration; (5) conditions in respect to the sale of drugs shall be complied with in accordance with the specific issuances of the Ministry of Health. (WPD 2/24) MILITARY Insurgent Attacks Jan. 31: Four KNU terrorists on Jan. 13 opened fire on a bus on the Pa-an-Kamamaung [Kayin] road, wounding two monks. (WPD 2/1) Feb. 3: Five KIA terrorists on Jan. 11 invaded Man Tha village, Mansi Twp. [Kachin], kidnapped the village LORC Chairman and Secretary and shot them to death 250 yards south of the village. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 9: A "mine planted by NMSP Mon terrorist group and robbers reportedly from ABSDF terrorist group," on Feb. 8 blew up the No. 282-down Ye-Mawlamyine train, killing nine passengers and wounding 18. (WPD 2/11) Feb. 12: 300 SURA terrorists and bandits on Feb. 9 entered Pantawi village, Langhko Twp. [Shan], shot and bayonetted to death 61 Shan and Pa-O villagers, including 21 children from 2 months to 12 years, and burned down 150 homes. (WPD 2/13) // Feb. 13: SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo visited the site of the massacre. [photos] (WPD 2/15) Feb. 16: A KNU mine on Feb. 8 injured a woman near Mikayin village, Hpa-an Twp. [Kayin]. (WPD 2/17) Insurgents Surrender Feb. 17: Between Jan. 14-29, 19 "members of some terrorist organizations," surrendered, with their arms [names and details], bringing the total for January to 39. (WPD 2/18) [Note: we could not locate a report for Jan. 1-13--HCMacD.] ECONOMIC Economic Articles Feb. 6: Do these for the second paddy crop to succeed, by U Kyaw Thaung. [How to double-crop.] Feb. 7: The Dagon New Town, a Town of Servicemen, by Dagon Than Myint. [How, despite initial misgivings, the author has found Dagon New Town to be a boon for government clerks like himself.] Feb. 7: The Thaton Wahpar dam project, by Lwin Hein Aung (Pa-O). [Irrigation project in Thaton, Mon State.] Feb. 7: The golden "Mayin" & double crop paddy, by Mg Lu Han. [Double cropping rice in the Twantay area of Yangon Division.] Feb. 9: For long term benefits of the country through timber business, by U Ye Myint (forest). [Growing value of timber resources, need to conserve, and warnings against improper exploitation. "Timber concessions were granted to timber merchants from neighbouring countries on a short term basis in the past. Being of a short term nature it has proven to be of little benefit to all parties concerned. As most of these contracts will be expiring in December 1993, it has been decided not to extend the contracts any further, as it iwll be necessary to plan on a long term basis for the future." Longterm ventures must grant large areas butr limit the annual harvest, "thereby compelling the concessionaires to protect their long-term interests." But this requires supervision on both sides of the border, and establishment of security and safety in border areas. FAO figures show that Myanmar, alone of Southeast Asian timber producers, had the same forest cover area (32.4 million hectares) in 1989 as in 1969, so conservation has been successful. Ultimately, all timber exports should be "in the form of value-added products only," and preference should be given to Myanmar nationals. Timber quotas granted for local construction should not be diverted into exports.] Feb. 10: Large-scale prawn-breeding in Maungtaw, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. [In Maungtaw Twp. {Rakhine}, sea-water ponds for raising prawns cover 12,984 acres (10,827 private; 493 Departmental; 1,664 Tatmadaw) and produce over 650,000 viss of prawns (30-50 viss per acre).] Feb. 11: Sincerely motivated measures for long-term benefits, by Yebaw Thit Maung. [Several dam projects praised.] Feb. 14: Summer paddy will boost paddy production, by Maung Lay Lar. [Virtues of paddy cultivation requiring little water.] Feb. 14: Myanmar flourishing with irrigated water, by Shwe Baw Phyoe (Sindewa). [New irrigation projects praised.] Feb. 15,17: For double-cropping paddy, by Ko Soe Myint. [Statistics on results of experimental triple-cropping; double cropping methods.] Feb. 16: A Model Consumer Co-operative Society, by U Myint Swe. [Description of Consumer Coop in Pyin-Oo-Lwin, founded in 1971.] Feb. 18: Myanmar, the land of warmth and hospitality, by Saw Hanson Yah. [Myanmar a tourist wonderland. New gateways, in addition to Yangon, recently opened, with alternatives of 2 night-3 day or 3 night-4 day itineraries; visas are available, good for 14 days, on 24 hours notice. Package tour travellers crossing the Yunnan-Myanmar border to Muse, Namkhan, and Kyukoke, can travel to Lashio. From Thailand, tourists may cross at Maesai and travel to Kyaing Tong. Other gateways are Paya Thonsu, and in the south where tourists may come to Kawthoung from Ranong in Thailand. More gateways will be opened "in the very near future."] Feb. 19: Myanma Gems' grand entry into market economy, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. ["The {gems} emporia are being held twice a year. Jewellery shops doing business in FE have been opened in Kawthaung {sic} and in Tachilek {in addition to Bogyoke Aung San Market in Yangon}." Diplomats can buy, in foreign exchange, and lesser items are sold on consignment in Department stores and other sales centres. "C" and "D" grade jade is sold to foreigners in foreign exchange (133,860 kilos for US$1.2 million) and to national businessmen (73,784 kilos for K17 million). Myanma Gems sells on consignment for private entrepreneurs, charging 5% for appraisal, and levying a 20% tax on foreign currency earned.] Feb. 20: Myanmar Gems: well-known throughout the world, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. [Myanmar supreme for its pearls, jade, and rubies. "Recently, Myanmar embarked on a joint venture with VES company of Thailand with a view to acquiring sophisticated modern techniques in contriving personal jewellery and promoting sales in world markets." Myanmar is providing US$1.3 million (52%) in gems, and VES providing US$1.2 million (48%) in equipment and working capital; profits will be shared 60-40 in favour of Myanmar.] Feb. 21: The Theingyizay new D complex, by Maung Maung Soe. [Description of new domed shopping/restaurant/office complex, which will open in April 1994.] Feb. 21: Let us strive to produce more paddy and fish, by Shwe Baw Phyoe (Sindewa). [Growing fish in ricepaddies encouraged.] Feb. 23: Let Zwegabin and Thanlwin stand witness, by Saw Daung Nyo. [SLORC's development activities in Kayin State.] Feb. 24: Begin with Egret & end with Fisherman as the Crab smiles, by Yaythi Yaukkyar. [Virtues of Myanmar fish and prawn industries.] Feb. 25: There is no real shortage of salt, by Cho U. ["Salt-making regions in the country are now piling up with salt.... There is no possibility of the country having to face a salt shortage when such a shortage has not been heard of even in those colonial days.... There will be no shortage of salt and there is nothing to worry about for an abundant supply of salt."] Feb. 26: The Kyauktalon reservoir construction project, by Taungthar Saw Win. [Visit to project by SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo in January.] Feb. 27: Market economy and private timber trading, by Myo Myat (Thit Achay-khan). ["Myanmar has wood: she can therefore also get gold as well as silver. It needs only a certain degree of exertion on the part of private timber merchants...."] Feb. 28: The 'Myoma' market in Taunggyi, by Than Wai (Taunggyi). ["Taunggyi town will have an imposing shopping centre right in the centre of the town that will further beautify the town in keeping with its status."] Construction & Other Projects Feb. 9: The Pyidaungu Overpass at the corner of Laydauntkan and Thanthumar Roads, Thingangyunn Twp. [Yangon] was inaugurated. The 534 foot overpass, over the Yangon-Mandalay rail line, has a six-lane highway. (WPD 2/10) Feb. 12: The Seikkantha Pontoon Bridge was inaugurated in Dawai [Tanintharyi]. The Kaba Aye Buddha Sasana Hospital, built since 1991 at a cost of K15 million, was inaugurated. (WPD 2/13) Feb. 13: A voluntary service contribution camp was inaugurated in Taikkyi [Yangon] for building the 22-mile Okkan-Tabuhla Reservoir Project Road. "About 15,000 households of 37 village-tracts/wards in the environs of Okkan will contribute service to the construction of a 13.5-mile section of the 22-mile-long, 40-foot-wide road." SLORC Secretary-2 Maj-Gen. Tin Oo spoke with local officials "on the need for welfare and health activities for the volunteers, mostly peasants." (WPD 2/14) Feb. 14: A new 704-foot, K11 million bridge (Government K5 million; public contributions K5 million; voluntary service estimated at K1 million), across the Mu River near Thamayoekya village (Ayardaw and Wetlet Twps., Sagaing) was inaugurated Feb. 12, which will cut 42 miles off the Monywa-Shwebo connection. The 134-mile, K15 million, Pathein-Shawpya-Mawtin road was inaugurated Feb. 11. It was begun in Dec. 1989. (WPD 2/15) Feb. 19: A telephone auto-exchange, "jointly set up by the Myanma Posts and Telecommunications and local elders," was inaugurated Feb. 12 in Thanbyuzayat, Mon State. The Myanma Co-operatives' Export Exhibition Hall was inaugurated in Yangon, with 700 export items on exhibit. (WPD 2/ 20) Joint Ventures Feb. 1: Ministry of Trade Notification No. 1/93 of Feb. 1, Formation of the General Fisheries Company Limited, establishes a private joint venture under the Special Company Act, 1950, with autorized capital of K30 million, divided into 30,000 shares of K1,000 each, of which 15,300 are subscribed by Myanma Fisheries Enterprise, represented by its Managing Director, and 14,700 by T.B.E. Co. Ltd. of Thailand, represented by Managing Director Mr. Jitrakorn Permthamsin, of No. 186, MOO 15, Tambon Taiban, Amphur Muarng, Samutprakarn, Thailand, "for the purpose of prawn farming, fishing, processing and marketing of marine products." (WPD 2/2) // Feb. 16: An agreement was signed between the two parties. Representing T.B.E. Co. Ltd. was Managing Director Mr. Jitrakorn Permthamsin and its Financial Director Mr. Kamolchai Prommaneevirat. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 16: "The first gold production sharing contract for joint venture between No 2 Mining Enterprise and private organizations was signed at the Enterprise, Ministry of Mines, this morning. A total of 108 proposals were accepted for gold production sharing in Thabeikkyin Township, Mandalay Division, and in Kalaw Township, Shan State. Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein and officials were present." (WPD 2/ 17) Feb. 19: Myanma Airways represented by Managing Director U Khin Soe, and Highsonic Enterprise Pte Ltd of Singapore represented by Managing Director Mr. Wong Fong Fui signed an agreement to operate jointly in forming Myanmar Airways International, "the first joint venture air service of its kind undertaken in Myanmar." (WPD 2/20) Feb. 27: The Ocean Centre opened at 622 Merchant Street, Yangon, jointly operated by Myanma Export and Import Services and Ocean Radio Co. Pte. Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Mr. Andrew Lam. Also present were Mr. Toshiyukiito of Pioneer and Mr. T. Okimoto of Hitachi; the Centre will "sell electronic appliances from Hitach and Pioneer in foreign currency." (WPD 2/28) Advertisements TO THOSE WHO ADMIRE YAMAHA KABS MYANMAR Co. Ltd imports goods from Yamaha Motor Company, Japan, such as: (1) Motor-cycles. (2) Generators. (3) Multi-purpose engines. (4) Water pumps. KABS MYANMAR Showroom at No 46 Ground Floor, Bo Aung Gyaw Street, Botahtaung Township, will open on 9 February, 1993 and will sell the above goods. Following branch shops will be opened simulataneously. (1) No 216, 25th Street, between 82nd and 83rd Streets, Mandalay (2) No 81, Minyat Ward, Myitkyina KABS MYANMAR Co. Ltd. Yamaha authorized dealers in Myanmar ----- Dolphin SEA FOOD RESTAURANT OUR PLEASANT SPOT: STANDARDS FOR ENTERTAINING OUR SERVICE: SWIFT AND ATTENTIVE SEAFOOD CUISINE: CONTINENTAL AND REGIONAL FAVOURITES CAR PARKING: SECURE AND CONVENIENT AQUARIUM, LAKE ROAD, MINGALATAUNGNYUNT TOWNSHIP, YANGON OPENING NOW - DAILY: 10 AM to 9 PM. Integrated Agriculture Feb. 6: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe inspected integrated farms, and the cultivation of double-crop paddy, in Ayeyarwady Division. Speaking in Yaykyaw Kwin in Danubyu Township, he "disclosed that though difficulties and losses were encountered in the first one or two years, because of not having enough experience, there are some favourable conditions and profits will be gained in the future and in the long run. Regarding useful exploitation of the low-lying fields, he stated that there will be food sufficiency and job availability.... He stated three categories of integrated farming work - private-owned farms, farms partly assisted by the State and State-owned farms.... An estimated 30,000 baskets of paddy will be produced by 700 integrated farms in Ayeyarwady Division." (WPD 2/7) Feb. 8: Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung said that "integrated farming opens a new era in agricultural establishments," and will be extended to 100,000 acres in 1993-94. Meanwhile, he said that in fiscal year 1992-93, up to the end of December, "export licenses were issued for producing 148,301 tons of rice, 480,000 metric tons of beans and pulses, 75,000 metric tons of sesamum, 20,000 metric tons of rubber, over 46,000 metric tons of maize and corn, and over 18,000 metric tons of millet." Feb. 9: Editorial: The Rice Bowl. [Ayeyarwady Division is essentially and practically known as the rice bowl of the nation. But due to poor lines of supply and orthodox farming methods it has been unable to fully supply the needs of the rising population. Since the coming into being of the {SLORC}, regional and local authorities have taken the initiative in building roads and bridges. At the same time, low-lying areas which were left unused for a long time, have now been put to profitable use. The integrated farming has been introduced in such areas. In a couple of years those engaged in the business have achieved tangible results. By so doing, they have boosted food supplies for the people and increased earnings for themselves.... At present, some 700 integrated farms in the division are expected to yield 30,000 baskets of paddy not to mention fish and other crops. Previously, the low-lying areas could hardly produce 20 baskets per acre. Today, they can produce between 50 and 60 baskets per acre. Many have realized the potentials and are engaged in the business. The State on its part has encouraged private entrepreneurs, assuring necessary assistance."] Feb. 9: Minister for Agriculture Maj-Gen. Myint Aung said that "the double-cropping method will be used in over two million acres in the states and divisions. The triple- and double-cropping method will be extended up to four million acres." (WPD 2/ 10) Bazaar Train Feb. 10: The Myanma Railways "bazaar train" left Mahlwagonn Station for Myitkyina, carrying goods for sale at stations along the route; it will arrive in Myitkyina on Feb. 18. "Fifteen shopkeepers will sell on the train rice, vermicelli, salt, salt fish, prawn, soap, textile fabrics, traditional medicines, cocnut, other foodstuffs and food at special rates less than market prices, aimed at publicizing the on-train sales." (WPD 2/11) Feb. 16: The bazaar train stopped every 2-3 hours, and arrived in Mandalay on Feb. 14. Over K2 million of goods were sold. The train left Mandalay on Feb. 16. (WPD 2/17) Imports Feb. 10: Over 5,000 tons of rails and other equipment for Myanma Railways arrived in Yangon on the MV Mawlamyine. 270 cars also arrived on the ship. (WPD 2/11) Tourism Feb. 11: 62 tourists arrived on a one day tour, arriving from Bangkok on a chartered aircraft of Hapag Lloyd Travellers' Agency of Germany. They visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, Chaukhtatgyi Pagoda, Kandawgyi, and the National Museum. In the evening they flew on to Nepal. (WPD 2/12) Gems Emporium Feb. 16: SLORC Chairman General Than Shwe, and his wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing, previewed the 30th Myanma Gems Emporium at the Inya Lake Hotel in Yangon. Journalists also previewed the Emporium. There will be 1,695 lots (855 of gems, 540 of jade, and 300 of pearls) with a total value of over US$17.6 million. Also on sale will be 4,633 jewellery pieces worth over US$3.6 million and 9,297 jade figurines worth over US$500,000. Jade will be sold by competitive bidding from Feb. 20-23, gems from Feb. 24-26, and pearls from Feb. 27-28. Diplomats may buy jewellery pieces on Feb. 27-28. (WPD 2/17) Feb. 17: Diplomats and bureaucrats visited the Emporium. So far 180 gem merchants have arrived, representing 36 companies from France, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and USA. (WPD 2/18) [Daily progress reports of emporium omitted] Feb. 23: Minister for Mines Maj-Gen. Kyaw Min hosted a dinner for the 635 gem merchants from 17 countries attending the Emporium. Gifts were given to those who had attended more than ten consecutive Emporia, headed by Mr. I.P. Roberts of M/S Benj Warnick, UK, who has attended 30 consecutive sessions. (WPD 2/24) Feb. 27: The Emporium ended, with total sales of over K90,407,746 (US$14,626,955) of jade, gems, pearls, jewellery, and jade figurines. 654 merchants from 17 countries attended. Breakdown was: Gems: Myanma Gems Enterprise (MGE) US$312,364 (59 lots); joint ventures $35,744 (11 lots); and private owned $660,521 (109 lots). Jade: MGE $8,683,047 (228 lots); joint ventures $69,608 (2 lots); private owned $2,720,234 (113 lots). Pearls: [no statistics given; sales probably not over] Jewellery and jade figurines will be sold to diplomats Feb. 27-28. (WPD 2/28) Timber Industry Feb. 19: Speaking to State forestry and private forestry entrepreneurs at the Myanma Timber Enterprise, Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe said said Myanmar had struck a balance between economic exploitation of forests and conservation. "With the growing global shortage of raw materials," he said, "many international industrialists have been rushing to seek the rich natural resources of our country. With the adoption of the market oriented economic system, Myanmar has opened up its doors for foreign investment, but we need to take great caution in undertaking decisions regarding the acceptance of foreign investers. As some foreign organizations have put up proposals that would amount to reaping our forests as though they were paddy plants, we need to foresee the possible alarming consequences that are likely to occur in the future. On our part, we have no desire to work with people who are only interested in cutting large volumes of timber and exporting mainly in the form of logs. We feel that initial raw material requirement calculations should be based on the capacity of existing factories and mills and projections for future development. Forest resources not being easily replaceable are in fact 'Critical resources' which need to be managed with great care. We therefore intend to accept only those investers who will not only have their personal interests at heart, but will look to sharing benefits mutually with the State." He went on to promise aid to the private sector, to encouraging development of timber species other than teak, and of promoting the export of value added products. Because teak sells so well abroad, Myanmars should learn to use other species for building houses and furniture. "As unscrupulous parties had been undertaking illegal export of logs in cooperation with insurgents along the border areas, we were compelled to grant border concessions to foreign companies on a short term basis. A lot of those companies' contract periods have expired and only a few are still in operation. Realization of the fact that exporting timber across the border in reality will not bring tangible benefits but will only be detrimental to our interests, it has been decided to stop all further extensions, and we estimate that no more concessions will remain along our borders by the end of this year.... [Only when insurgency stops] we will be able to consider cooperation on long-term basis as this alone can guarantee systematic conservation measures.... "The old forest law had been promulgated in 1902 and its main objective was to protect the interest of foreigners.... We therefore drafted and promulgated the new Forest Act on the 3 November 1992. Besides laying stress on the necessity for forest conservation, the scale of punishment and fines for infringement have been raised considerably...." (WPD 2/20) Rainfall in Yangon Rainfall, in inches, at Yangon's three weather stations of Yangon Airport (YA), Kaba-Aye (KA), and Central Yangon (CY) was: YA KA CY 1987 97.01 100.98 95.43 1988 99.17 100.00 107.76 1989 96.22 100.59 102.76 1990 ll8.35 109.92 122.84 1991 91.81 83.78 96.65 1992 81.34 96.02 95.98 1993, as of: February 28 00.00 00.00 00.00 HEALTH Health Articles Feb. 13: Local-made Dentistry Instruments, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. [How Dr. Kyaw Myint and Dr. Win Tun organized "Venus Dental," which produces three kinds of dental couches and five types of turbine {drills}. "Parts of the some instruments still have to be imported but most of the parts are now made locally." Other private producers of dental equipment and supplies are the "Three Q" group, and "Super."] Myanmar Malaria Research Feb. 20: The latest issue of the Bulletin of the WHO (Vol. 70, No. 6) carries a research article by Kyaw Win, Marlar Than, and Ye Thwe of the Malaria Research Programme, Directorate of Medical Services, Ministry of Defence, "comparing the efficacies of standard i/v Quinine plus oral Tetracycline versus injectable Artemsinin derivatives, namely, i/m Artemether or i/v Artesunate plus Mefloquine for the treatment of cerebral malaria patients who are already in deep coma." In a study of 141 such patients, the first regimen had a mortality of over 30 percent, while the second yielded mortality figures of less than half that. Recovery was quicker, clinical side effects fewer, and cure rates higher, with the second regimen. (WPD 2/21) SPORTS Myanmar Teams & Delegations Feb. 1: The Myanmar team returned from the Jan. 21-26 New Year Soccer Tournament in Macao. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 11: A team consisting of a six boxers and a coach, led by Federation official Capt. Pe Khin, left for Jakarta, Indonesia, to participate in the President's Championship Trophy International Amateur Boxing Tournament. (WPD 2/12) // Feb. 27: Kyaw Min (bantamweight) won a bronze medal; he was the only Myanmar winner, and was beaten on points by a South Korean in the semifinals. The team returned Feb. 25. (WPD 2/28) Feb. 24: A football team, headed by Lt-Col. Soe Than of the Football Federation, with one manager, two coaches, and 30 players, a men's volleyball team, headed by Lt-Col. Thet Tin, with one coach and 8 players, and a women's volleyball team, headed by U Tin Lwin, with 8 players, left for goodwill matches in Vietnam from Feb. 24-Mar. 3. (WPD 2/25) // Feb. 26: The soccer team beat Hiphoung 1-0, with a goal by Than Toe Aung. The women's volleyball team beat Thaibinh 15-12, 11-15, 15-3, 15-9. The men's volleyball team beat Thaibinh 7-15, 15-6, 17-15, 15-9. (WPD 2/27) Sports Articles Feb. 5: Ascent to Khawnoothom, by Maung Phone Pyi (Takkatho). [Dec. 1992 ascension of the 10,500 ft. Mount Khawnoothom (Mt. Victoria) in Chin State, highest mountain in Myanmar.] Hole-in-One Feb. 12: Southern Commander Commander Maj-Gen. Soe Myint scored an ace Feb. 11 on the 143-yard 6th hole of the Bago Golf Course, using a Fiberx Nog club and a Slazenger No. 1 ball. (WPD 2/13) CULTURAL Literary and Cultural Articles Feb. 1,8: Impressions, by Min Kyaw Min. [(1) "Food for thought." Virtues of libraries, so long as their contents "are not harmful to young minds." (2) "Our Union is a colourful and unified as the rainbow." Unity of Myanmar's races.] Feb. 7,12,14,21: Poems; in English and Burmese. [(1) "To" by Ngwe Tar Yi. (2) "We Myanmar" by Budalin Chit Lay. (3) "Scenic vision" by Min Yu Wai. (4) "Age" by Budalin Chit Lay.] Feb. 7: Life as a series of struggles, by Maung Hsu Shin. [Life of writer 'Baho' Thein Hsaung.] Feb. 7: Beautiful Myanmar, by Nay Wun Tin. [Appreciation of Myanmar by visiting Japanese World War II Veterans.] Feb. 14: Realism in rural settings, by Hein. [Writer Tekkatho Maung Maung Khin, whose Ywar Yeik Wun Kyin Hmyaw Lay Lyin Mu won the short stories collection literary prize in 1966; his Ah Htwet Myan Myan Ah Pyan Hnay Hnay was chosen as best play in 1990.] Feb. 21: Brilliant achievements at the 6th Buddhist Council by the Most Venerable Mingun Sayadaw Tipitakadhara Dhamma Bhandagarika Bhaddanta Vicittasarabhivamsa, by Maung Arnt. [Activites at 1954 6th Buddhist Council. He died this month {see obituaries}.] Feb. 21: Short Stories. ["A letter to the silver moon" by KMA.] Feb. 21: Maung Theinkha's moonface, by Maung Hsu Shin. [Life of novelist Maung Theinkha (a) U Than Swe, author of 1968 prizewinner La Min Tayar.] Feb. 24: Editorial: Important role of monastic school education. ["Human society today is wracked by a paucity of moral values. The worst thing is that most young people cannot differentiate between good and bad.... One way of taming our wayward youth is to introduce monastic school education system for persons of all walks of life in the country.... The Ministry of Education has issued instructions to Basic Education High Schools to accept monastic school pupils appearing for Fourth Standard Examinations. When we look back at history people from all walks of life gained their education at the monastic school. The monastic school education imparted not only Buddhist literature and culture but also imparted knowledge in other social sciences such as administration, economics and national defence. Monastic school education system also aroused nationalism, patriotism and religiosity. Under the State Law and Order Restoration Council, Buddhist Cultural Courses were opened all over the country to improve behaviour and manner of our youth. Introduction of this sytem to revive monastic school education all over the country is an encouraging move in our striving to purify, perpetuate and propagate the Sasana."] Literary Anthology Feb. 3: The News and Periodicals Enterprise has published "Anthology of Myanmar Literature, Vol. IV." Five volumes (the first four originally published before World War II), are being published. The Myanmarsar Department of Yangon University is preparing Vol. VI, which will contain literary works from the middle and late Konbaung period. (WPD 2/4) Conversions to Buddhism Feb. 4: 396 Naga nationals from 81 households in Nar-myitta village, Hkamti Twp. [Sagaing], turned Buddhists on Jan. 9. (WPD 2/5) Universities Open Feb. 4: All universities, colleges, institutes, etc., will open for the Academic Year 1993 on Feb. 16. Hostels will be open from Feb. 15. Lists of students admitted will be announced, by posting and by mail, on Feb. 5. (WPD 2/5) Feb. 17: "All classes of first, second, third, fourth and fifth year courses and honours classes for 1993 academic year of Universities, Institutes, Degree Colleges and Colleges under the Higher Education Department opened yesterday. The campuses of various Institutions of higher learning were seen to be bustling with students." (WPD 2/18) Kale College Inaugurated Feb. 17: Kale College in Sagaing Division was inaugurated by Minister for Education Col. Pe Thein. It will serve students from Hakha, Tongzan, Tiddim, Thangtlan, and Falam Townships in Chin State (North), and Kale, Kalewa, and Tamu Townships in Sagaing Division. (WPD 2/18) Video Censorship Feb. 22: "Video tape hiring businesses are to hire only the censored local production tapes for public shows and censored foreign video tapes for family shows," said Yangon Video censorship chief Police Col. Thein Lin. The Video Censor Board Secretary "explained plans for obtaining permission from the Board for the imported video tapes and arrangements made for enabling the video tape hiring entrepreneurs to to business according to law." (WPD 2/23) MISCELLANEOUS Crime Jan. 31: Security Unit personnel searching passengers Jan. 25 on a Hkamti-Mandalay flight seized 14 ticals of jade, illegally sent by Dr. Maung Maung, a delegate to the National Convention from Sagaing Division. (WPD 2/1) Court News Feb. 19: Yangon Eastern District court on Feb. 4 sentenced a man to 10 years imprisonment and K50,000 fine for possession of 4.4 grams of heroin. (WPD 2/20) Anti-Narcotics Activities Feb. 1: Military intelligence on Jan. 12 seized 2.3 kilos of heroin in Tang Yang [Shan]. (WPD 2/2) Feb. 6: 42 acres of poppy fields were destroyed near Phaingba Village in Hakha Twp. [Chin] between Jan. 17-19. Township personnel destroyed 113 acres of poppies from Jan. 1-22. (WPD 2/7) Feb. 11: Laship police on Jan. 31 seized 1.9 kilos of heroin on a bus arriving from Mandalay. The Mogaung anti-drug squad seized 17 bottles of phensedyl in Mogaung [no date]. The Hoping anti-drug squad and DSI on Jan. 30 seized 1.3 kilos of heroin and 4.1 kilos of opium in Hoping. The Mandalay anti-drug squad and DSI on Jan. 31 seized 2.5 kilos of opium in Mandalay. (WPD 2/12) Feb. 12: Between Jan. 6-23 police destroyed over 154 acres of opium poppy in Faihpa Village area, Hakha Twp. [Chin]. (WPD 2/13) Feb. 14: During Calendar Year 1992, the Tatmadaw seized 835.3 kilos of opium, 22.5 kilos of heroin, 37.6 kilos of marijuana, and 206.5 litres of phensedyl. Customs seized 3.1 kilos of heroin [sic] (2 cases), 0.06 kilo of heroin (1 case), and 38 litres of phensedyl (1 case). The Police seized 1,358 kilos of opium (653 cases), 68 kilos of morphine base (3 cases), 241 kilos of heroin (2,019 cases), 255 kilos of marijuana (507 cases), 2,958 litres of phensedyl (239 cases), 50 kilos of opium blocks (3 cases), 5 kilos of heavy opium (40 cases), 0.6 kilo of liquid opium (1 case), 11 kilos of opium powder (11 kilos), and 1,136 gallons of acetic anhydride (2 cases). They took action in 1,940 cases of failure to register as an addict, and 87 other drug-related cases. Police took action against 7,122 persons in 5,506 cases. (WPD 2/15) Feb. 20: Under Tagun Operation Phase 7, the Bhamo branch of the Myitkyina anti-drug squad on Feb. 4 seized 0.1 kilo of heroin from a bus arriving at Mansi from Namhkam. (WPD 2/21) Feb. 22: A Tatmadaw Intelligence Unit and the Lashio anti-drug squad on Jan. 19 seized 2.1 kilos of heroin in Muse. Police on Jan. 7 seized 5.5 kilos of raw opium in Pinlaung. On Jan. 6, 24 bottles of phensedyl were seized on a boat leaving Kyondo [Kayin] for Mawlamyine. (WPD 2/23) Feb. 27: Kokang nationals in Siawe village, Laukkai region, on Feb. 23 destroyed 215 gallons of lysol, 337 gallons of spirit, 138 gallons of ether, 15 gallons of acetic anhydride, 30 gallons of chloroform, 56 gallons of phosphoric acid, 300 kilos of ammonium chloride, 500 kilos of soda, and other refining agents from five opium refineries. (WPD 2/28) US Drug Enforcement Agency Feb. 19: A team consisting of Mr. Lloyd Armstead and five members of the US Drug Enforcement Agency, First Secretary of the American Embassy Mr. Arthur Brown, Maj. Khin Maung Thein and others "conducted opium poppy sampling in Shan State from 13 to 19 February under the Opium Yield Study Project...conducted under the joint drug control programme of the Government of the Union of Myanmar and the Government of the United States of America. The team visited Shweli Villa of North-East Command for a briefing on Feb. 13. took an aerial survey of poppy plantations in the Panglong region of Hopang Twp. [Shan] on Feb. 14, took photos, soil samples, and collected records of the plantations on Feb. 15, were received by Eastern Command Commander Maj-Gen. Maung Aye and conducted poppy sampling in Pekhon and Hsihseng Twps. [Shan] on Feb. 16, in Mong Yang Twp. on Feb. 17, and in Kyaing Tong Twp. [Kengtung] on Feb. 18. They went on to Chiangmai in Thailand "to do experimental opium yield study and laboratory test on soil of poppy plantations." (WPD 2/20) Feb. 22: The delegation left. Mr. Armstead held a press conference in the Yangon International Airport Lounge to describe the visit. "He said the team had collected sample poppy plants from illicit plantations in Kokang and Wa regions in Shan State for five days. He said that the team was divided into four groups musing two helicopters. Each group, he said, was made upof one US team member and three from Myanmar.... He said the work was highly successful...." Present were local journalists, representatives from Antara, Nihon Zeizai, UPI, Ji Ji Press, Reuter, AFP, Xinhua, TBS, AP, NHK, Newsweek, and Yumiuri, and Counsellor of the US Embassy William J. Weinhold. (WPD 2/23) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are obituaries in Burmese as well.] Jan. 29: Daw Kyaw Tha, widow of U Sein Nyo Tun, died in Burnaby Hospital, Burnaby (Vancouver), Canada, aged 87. (WPD 2/2) Jan. 30: Mary Joseph, of the FERD Section, Office of the Ministers, daughter of Mrs. B. Joseph, died in Yangon. (WPD 2/4) Feb. 1: Saw Harding, (B.A., B.L.), retired Editor of the Working People's Daily, died in Yangon, aged 73. [Christian] (WPD 2/3) Feb. 1: Daw Khin Khin Yee (Amar), wife of Dr. Hla Nwe (ret'd Chairman, Myanmar Red Cross), died in Yangon, aged 68. (WPD 2/3) Feb. 4: Daw Daisy Po Tu, widow of retired Deputy Police Inspector General Saw Po Tu, died in Yangon, aged 83. [Christian] (WPD 2/5) Feb. 6: Bo Tar Yar, (a) Khin Maung Oo, member of the Thirty Comrades, novelist, husband of Daw Saw Khin, died, aged 74. [article] (WPD 2/14) Feb. 7: Daw Mya Yee (Mrs Nu), Pantanaw, wife of [former Prime Minister] U Nu, mother of Daw Sann Sann Nu-U Thet Tin, U Aung Ye Myint-Daw Mya Mya Aye, U Thoung Htike-Dr. May Thazin Than, U Aung-Daw Khin Sann Nwe, Daw Than Than Nu-U Aung Nyein, Dr Khin Aye Thet Tin (a) Khin Aye Nu,... died in Yangon, aged 83. (WPD 2/9) Feb. 9: Abhidhajamaharatthaguru Abhidhaja Aggamahasaddhammajotika Tipitakadhara Dhammabhandagarika Bhaddanta Vicittasarabhivamsa, Secretary of the State Samghamahanayaka Committee, died in Mingun, Sagaing Twp., Sagaing, aged 81, vassa 61. [newsw article] (WPD 2/10) Feb. 12: Joyce Vivienne Twemlow, nee Brindley (Pyin-Oo-Lwin), wife of Lt. Ian Twemlow (Retd), died, aged 59. [Christian] (WPD 2/17) Feb. 16: Daw Nyunt Tin (a) Doris Than Aung, ex-Theatre Sister BMH (Pyin-Oo-Lwin), Pre-war ex-President (NCWB), died in Yangon, aged 78. (WPD 2/18) Feb. 18: Daw Nelly Than (a) Daw Myat Mon, wife of U Thein Tun (Chairman, Pepsi Cola Products Myanmar Ltd.), died in Yangon, aged 59. (WPD 2/20) Feb. 25: Naw Atta (Mrs. A. Nyunt), Old Teacher of St. Mary's Diocesan No. 1 S.H.S. Lanmadaw, widow of Saw Maung Maung Nyunt, mother of Violet, Clematis, Carnation, Auricula, Portulacca, and Hepaticca, died in Yangon. [Christian] (WPD 2/26) Fire Feb. 7: A fire in Ward 16, Yankin [Yangon] destroyed nine houses and half a Hindu temple, leaving 88 persons from 16 households homeless. (WPD 2/8) Trainees Injured Feb. 26: SLORC Secretary-1 Maj-Gen. Khin Nyunt "consoled injured trainees of Basic Public Affairs Clerical Course No 76 of Central Institute of Public Services, at the Yangon General Hospital this evening.... [and] individually gave words of encouragement to the trainees who are undergoing treatment there. They proceeded to Neuro Surgical Ward and spoke words of comfort to the injured trainee being warded at the ward...." [Note: we have not seen any previous report of this incident. HCMacD.] (WPD 2/27) ----- 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. 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