95-08 BURMA PRESS SUMMARY From the Rangoon "The New Light of Myanmar" Compiled for the Burma Studies Group by Hugh C. MacDougall Published by the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies, University of Illinois Volume IX, No. 8, August 1995 Table of Contents POLITICAL Slogans 2 Political Articles 2 Returnees from Bangladesh 3 Special Refresher Courses 3 National Races 3 USDA 4 Judiciary 4 Khin Nyunt Tours Rakhine 4 Chairman Than Shwe in Upper Myanmar 4 Amnesty International is Political 5 Gen. Maung Aye Tours Upper Myanmar 5 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 5 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 6 New Myanmar Ambassadors 6 Myanmar and ASEAN 6 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Projects 7 Environmental Conference 7 Donations from Abroad 7 Border & Regional Affairs 8 Social and Economic Cooperation 8 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 8 International NGO Visitors 9 Cultural Visitors 9 Medical Visitors 9 Business Visitors 9 Religious Visitors 10 Brunei Communications Minister 10 Korean Special Envoy 11 Lao Military Delegation 11 US Congressman Bob Livingston 11 Bangladesh Parliamentarian 11 Singapore Diplomats 11 US Senators 11 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 11 Delegations to Meetings & Events 12 Kunming Trade Fair 95 12 Rail Minister to Indonesia 13 World Women's Conference 13 Delegations Return 13 MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments 14 Appointments Confirmed 14 MILITARY Insurgent Attacks 14 Further Splits in KNU 14 Surrenders by Armed Group Members 14 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 14 Economic Inaugurations 15 Advertisements 16 International Business Projects 16 Business Courses 17 Banking 17 Computer Association 17 200 Kyat Note Issued 18 Privatization 18 Environmental Problems 18 Jewellery Shops Warned 18 Airlines 18 Rainfall in Yangon 18 HEALTH Health Articles 19 SPORTS Sports Articles 19 Myanmar Teams and Officials 19 Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. 19 Holes-in-one 19 CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles 19 Publications 20 Universities and Institutes 20 Yangon University Diamond Jubilee 21 Religion 21 English-language School 21 Motion Pictures Diamond Jubilee 21 High School Exams 21 Cultural Courses 21 Educational Subsidies 22 MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements 22 Crime 23 Anti-Narcotics Activities 24 Articles on Narcotics 24 Obituaries 25 Earthquakes 26 Building Collapses 26 Limited Parking 26 Fishermen Returned 26 ------------------------------------------- HIGHLIGHTS -- Visit by US Congressman Bob Livingston [FOREIGN VISITORS] ------------------------------------------- -- Visit by US Senators Arlen Specter and George H. Brown [FOREIGN VISITORS] POLITICAL Slogans The bottom of each front page continues to bear the slogan: Emergence of the State Constitution is the duty of all citizens of Myanmar Naing-Ngan [reverted back from "Union of Myanmar." The top of each back page usually bears the slogan: The Tatmadaw has been sacrificing much of its blood and sweat to prevent disintegration of the Union. All nationalities of the Union are urged to give all co-operation and assistance in this great task. Religious Slogans: Since August 1991, each issue has included a changing religious slogan at the top of each front page: Aug. 1-14: Garavo ca, reverence; this is the way to auspiciousness. Aug. 15-31: Nivato ca, modesty; this is the way to auspiciousness. The Twelve Objectives: Beginning July 6, 1995, each issue of NLM lists the following, generally on the front page: Four political objectives * Stability of the State, community peace and tranquillity, prevalence of law and order * National reconsolidation * Emergence of a new enduring State Constitution * Building of a new modern developed nation in accord with the new State Constitution --------------- Four economic objectives * Development of agriculture as the base and all-round development of other sectors of the economy as well * Proper evolution of the market-oriented economic system * Development of the economy inviting participation in terms of technical know-how and investments from sources inside the country and abroad * The initiative to shape the national economy must be kept in the hands of the State and the national peoples ---------------- Four social objectives * Uplift of the morale and morality of the entire nation * Uplift of national prestige and integrity and preservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character * Uplift of dynamism of patriotic spirits * Uplift of health, fitness and education standards of the entire nation Political Articles Aug. 1: Let there be no jealousy or envy, by U Phyoe. [On July 15, the BBC "broadcast a news item aimed at hindering foreign countries helping and assisting Myanmar." The argument was made, not by Khun Sar or Bo Mya, but by "just one ordinary individual from among the masses who expressed that malice against the State Law and Order Restoration Council and the masses of the people." The statement was made by a person "unafraid of the purgatory, unaware that it was a sin and unknowing that it was a mental defilement."] Aug. 5,8: To love the country is nothing to be bashful about, by Sithu Nyein Aye. [(1) English mispronunciation and spelling of Myanmar and Yangon. "Some international publications still insist on using the words Burma and Rangoon. Leave them alone...they belong to the tribe that desires to enslave Myanmar." Myanmars are among the few peoples who still wear traditional dress. "What I am unhappy about is a large number of movie actors sporting pants, jerkins and other Western embellishments. Others show themselves wearing Myanmar dress slovenly." Not surprisingly, they are imitated. "We have begun to see everywhere young Myanmar girls wearing their skirts high with over-size shirts flying about on top of them. Some others have a differing fashion, large frocks or short hot pants. Nobody will find such kind of attire tasteful." They seem to emulating Bangkok and Singapore girls. There are still some people wearing traditional dress properly. "But I am despaired when I come across those who think to show that they love their nation is something to be ashamed of." [(2) At a birthday party attended by "overseas Myanmars", "a white-face and a woman came. The woman was wearing a pair of high-heels, tight pants and a blouse with a low neck." She wasn't a "pha-u-htoke" (slang for Philippina) or a "Ya-pet-let" (slang for Thai). "She kept aloof from other Myanmars, kept conversing with her escort. She apparently was not proud of being a Myanmar." Other Myanmar expatriates, even when they have acquired foreign citizenship, are still "proud of being Myanmars." Some refuse to remain silent when Myanmar is maligned abroad. In Myanmar "no action whatever is taken against somebody who does not try to destroy the country or agitate a movement for that purpose." Western press unfair, and follows a double standard.] Aug. 7-8: Khun Sar: Satan Masquerading as Prince Charming, by Saw Daung Nyo. [(1) Atrocities of Khun Sa's Loimaw opium bandit group. (2) History of the "half-breed" Khun Sa.] Aug. 7: A Thought Out of my Scrap-book, by Sithu Nyein Aye. [Myanmars are all leaders, no followers, resulting in constant divisions. SLORC is like the driver of a car who has put on the brakes to keep it from sliding down hill, and is now cautiously repairing the engine, while all kinds of people try to grab the wheel.] Aug. 11-16: Allow us to live in peace, by U Pye Gyaw. [(1) Viewpoint of the "masses." History of democracy, capitalism, etc. Need to obey laws and avoid anarchy, even in democracy. (2) 1988 disturbances in Myanmar recalled. Neo-colonialist activities of BBC and VOA. (3) More on 1988 disturbances. (4) "The 1988 affair, when an attempt was made to destroy the State power and to grab the State power, was waging war against the State. It was high treason. Those who committed it must be punished according to the offence they committed." Survey of Myanmar laws on treason, rioting, and the 1950 Emergency Provisions Act. (5) SLORC takeover on Sept. 8, 1988. (6) Review of SLORC actions.] Aug. 12: Dialogue...Dialogue, by Sithu Nyein Aye. [Dialogue working in Myanmar, while it fails in the Balkans, Philippines, Sri Lanka.] Aug. 19: Is Democracy very easy? by Sithu Nyein Aye. [Many elected regimes turn into dictatorships. There is only a "very thin demarcation" between democracy and anarchy. In the West, restaurants do not play loud music. There is quiet at night after 11 pm., and even during 1 and 3 in the afternoon. Sidewalks are swept and snow shovelled. Litter is disposed of. Pedestrians cross only at zebras and follow the signals. But here teashops play cassettes at full volume all day and night. Litter is scattered everywhere. People cross when they like. Similar rules cover political activities. The Tatmadaw is trying to lead Myanmar into multi-party democracy, slowly but surely. "The Tatmadaw stands on the side of Truth. It treads the correct path."] Returnees from Bangladesh [Articles reporting the return of refugees from Bangladesh list the cumulative total since Sept. 22, 1992. Not all returns are reported in NLM, and, indeed, returns have increasingly been skipped, as the discrepancy between specific reports and the running total indicates.] July 31: 84 persons returned on July 27, bringing the total to 192,534. (NLM 8/1) Aug. 7: 83 persons from 14 households returned to the reception camps on Aug. 3, bringing the total to 192,617. (NLM 8/8) Special Refresher Courses Aug. 11: Special Refresher Course No. 18 for Basic Education Teachers opened, and was addressed by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who reviewed Myanmar policies. "According to a Myanmar belief, the country will prosper when the majority are farmers, traders, intellectuals with moral conduct, and members of the Sangha with strict religious practises, he said.... Teachers, he said, should understand that the State's objectives are also in line with that belief and the benefit of the race and the religion...." 1,502 teachers are attending the four-week course. (NLM 8/12) Aug. 12: Special Refresher Course No. 6/95 for People's Police Force Officers concluded, and was addressed by Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin. National Races Aug. 7: Shan State (East) Special Region 4 National Leader U Sai Lin and members called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who also hosted a dinner for them. (NLM 8/8) // Aug. 9: He met with government officials, and with representatives of UNDCP, represented by Mr. Itori Iwasaki, and the American Embassy, and discussed the six-year project, begun in 1991, for eradication of opium cultivation by 1997, crop substitution, and other narcotics-related matters. (NLM 8/10) Aug. 21: Catholic Archbishop Sotero Pharmo of Loikaw, Kayah State, called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt to discuss "plans and tasks for maintaining everlasting peace and development of Kayah State." Also present were Deputy Director Col. Kyaw Min of Defence Services Intelligence and peace negotiator U Hkun Myat. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 28: Chairman Nai Shwe Kyin of the New Mon State Party (NMSP), accompanied by Vice-Chairman Nai Htin and members Nai Tin Aung, Nai Aung Naing, and Nai Soe Myint, and by peace negotiators Nai Khin Maung, Nai Pe Tin, and U Khun Myat, met with SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 8/29) // Aug. 30: Meeting with the Mon leaders, SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt said the Government would work with the national leaders and the public until goals are achieved. "No other persons than members of the armed groups who had returned to the legal fold, understand how difficult it is to achieve peace, he explained...." He warned against "certain groups that do not desire peace" and spread rumours to "disintegrate national unity." NMSP leader Nai Shwe Kyin then discussed economic problems in the area and "put forward requirements in transport, agriculture, education, health and social sectors." (NLM 8/31) USDA Aug. 14: Patron SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe of the Union Solidarity and Development Association addressed the conclusion of Management Course No. 6 for USDA Executive Committee Members. He reviewed Myanmar policies, concluding that "the USDA is the only national force joining hands with the Tatmadaw for vitalizing patriotism and building a developed, peaceful and modern nation with a view to holding in high esteem Our Three Main National Causes and striving for the uplift of national pride and honour." (NLM 8/15) Aug. 19: 10,778 students at Bago high schools received USDA membership cards. (NLM 8/20) Judiciary July 31: Addressing the 10th bi-annual meeting between the Supreme Court and State/Division Judges, Chief Justice U Aung Toe noted a marked decrease in the number of pending cases, but called for close supervision of courts where there are cases delayed for over six months or a year. "He noted cases were delayed due to failure of witnesses to appear at court on appointed date and that of plaintiffs, accused and lawyers to appear at court, laxity on the part of prosecuting bodies, claims for amendment without sound reason while hearing of the case was in progress and also claims for change of courts." (NLM 8/1) Khin Nyunt Tours Rakhine Aug. 2: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, accompanied by a group of economic cabinet ministered, flew to Sittway, Rakhine State, where he gave a long address [text in NLM] outlining recent Myanmar history and SLORC policies. [photos] (NLM 8/3) Aug. 3: On Aug. 2, he then flew by helicopter to the Kissapa Nadi River bridge project in Kyauktaw Township, and then visited the Maha Muni Pagoda. He went on Mrauk U, inspected the Mrauk U Hotel Project, and visited the Shitthaung Stupa and other sites. He then visited the Kyeeganpyin immigration control center in Maungtaw Township, Taungpyo Letwe village, hospital and school, and went on to the Rathedaung Battalion HQ for the night. On the morning of Aug. 3 he returned to Sittway, visited Khaukpyu where he inspected road projects and addressed district officials. He also visited the hospital and ice factory before flying on the Thandwe [Sandoway] and back to Yangon. (NLM 8/4) Chairman Than Shwe in Upper Myanmar Aug. 4: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe participated in laying the foundation for the Yadanapunna Waradahta Datu Cetiyarambha Buddha's Tooth Relic Pagoda (Mandalay), at Maha Dhamma Yanthi Hill near Shadawlay Village in Amarapura Township. He also inspected the reconstruction and repair of ancient edifices in Mandalay, including the Maha Atula Waiyan (Atumashi) Kyaungdaw, which "is being reconstructed in its original style...." He also visited the Mandalay Strand Road, which will be a 50 mile long, 140 feet wide, scenic roadway "to enable the public to view the beautiful sceneries of Ayeyawady River and Shwe Minwun Range and Sagaing Hills on the opposite bank of the river and to enhance the city's beauty." [photos] (NLM 8/5) Aug. 5: He inspected work for the greening of the Sagaing Hills, etc., before returning to Mandalay. [photos] (NLM 8/6) Aug. 6: He visited pagodas, and inspected domestic industries in Mandalay. [photos] (NLM 8/7) Aug. 7: He inspected irrigation works around Monywa, and met with farmers. [photos] (NLM 8/8) Aug. 8: He toured Test-well No. 1 in the Kyaukkhwet oil-field, Myaing Township, and visited Buddhist sites in Monywa and Salingyi. [photos] (NLM 8/9) Aug. 9: The SLORC Chairman inspected dams and irrigation, and greening projects, around Bagan and NyaungU. [photos] (NLM 8/10) Aug. 10: He inspected the Pin Creek Reservoir project in Kyaukpadaung Township, the site of the Ayeyawady Bridge at Chauk, and the Bagan Archaeology Museum Project. [photos] (NLM 8/11) Aug. 11: He visited the Mon Creek and Mann Creek Reservoir projects in Magway Division, and met with officials in Magway. [photos] (NLM 8/12) Aug. 12: He returned to Yangon, via Pyay, after visiting pumped water irrigation projects, the Natmauk Reservoir, and the Htaukshabin Oilfield, in Magway Division. [photos] (NLM 8/13) Amnesty International is Political Aug. 10: NLM publishes a photocopy of an article by one Sanjay Suri, from the July 9 Economic Times of India. The headline is "British court calls Amnesty a political group." A London high court ruled July 4 that the British section of Amnesty International was "mainly political", and so not entitled to run advertisements on the radio. The article concluded that this vindicates Indian criticism of Amnesty International. (NLM 8/10) Gen. Maung Aye Tours Upper Myanmar Aug. 24: A K 48.9 million power station was inaugurated by Vice-Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye in Pinlaung Township, which will for the first time provide it with 24-hour power. [photos] (NLM 8/25) Aug. 25: Vice-Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye addressed the graduating parade of the Officers Training School at Bahtoo Tatmyo, and inspected units there. [photos] (NLM 8/ 26) Aug. 26: He met Tatmadawmen and their families at Siseng Township and Yawksawk Township on Aug. 25. [photos] (NLM 8/26) Aug. 27: On Aug. 26, he flew to Heho and then to Lashio, where he met with officials and USDA personnel. He then went on Hsipaw, returning to Lashio for the night. [photos] (NLM 8/28) Aug. 28: He toured Tanyang, and Nantlang station (Hsipaw Township). [photos] (NLM 8/29) Aug. 29: He returned to Yangon, after "inspecting regional development in townships of northern and southern Shan State." [photos] (NLM 8/30) DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls [The following calls were paid on Burmese officials by foreign Embassy or UN officials accredited to Burma. Details of the meetings are rarely reported. Ambassadors generally accompany foreign visitors from their countries on official calls, and their presence is generally not noticed in this Summary. Newly arrived and departing Ambassadors generally make the rounds of Cabinet Ministers and other leading officials.] July 31: Laotian Ambassador Ly Bounkham called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Italian Ambassador Dr. Benito Volpi called on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint, and on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Wiesner called on Minister for Industry-2 Maj-Gen. Kyaw Than. Singapore Ambassador Calvin Eu Mun Hoo called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba.(NLM 8/1) Aug. 1: The German Ambassador called on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamad Hassem Ghanem called on Minister at the Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung, on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint. (NLM 8/2) Aug. 2: Egyptian Ambassador Mohamad Hassem Ghanem, who has completed his tour of duties in Myanmar, called on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung, and on Minister for Immigration and Population Lt-Gen. Maung Hla. (NLM 8/3) Aug. 3: The Egyptian Ambassador called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 8/4) Aug. 4: The Egyptian Ambassador called on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin, and on Chief Justice U Aung Toe. Chinese Ambassador Mrs. Chen Baoliu called on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (NLM 8/5) Aug. 7: The Egyptian Ambassador called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. Vietnamese Ambassador Tran Viet Tan called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (NLM 8/8) Aug. 8: German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Wiesner called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. UNDP Resident Representative Siba Kumar Das called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 9: Chinese Ambassador Mrs. Chen Baoliu, and Sri Lankan Ambassador K.B. Fernando, called on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint. (NLM 8/10) Aug. 10: German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Wiesner called on Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamad Hassem Ghanem called on Attorney-General U Tha Tun. Chinese Ambassador Mrs. Chen Baoliu called on Minister at the Prime Minister's Office U Than Shwe. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 14: German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Wiesner called on Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 15: Malaysian Ambassador John Tenewi Nuek, who has concluded his tour of duties, called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (NLM 8/16) Aug. 16: Sri Lankan Ambassador K.B. Fernando called on Minister for Immigration and Population Lt-Gen. Maung Hla. UNDP Resident Representative Siba Kumar Das called on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 17: German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Wiesner called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. Pakistani Ambassador Abbas H. Mirza called on Minister for Industry-2 Maj-Gen. Kyaw Than, and on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint. Singapore Ambassador Calvin Eu Mun Hoo called on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamad Hassem Ghanem called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. UNDP Resident Representative Siba Kumar Das called on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 18: Russian Military Attache Capt. (RFN) Mikhail M. Borovik, who has completed his tour of duty, called on Vice-Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye to present his successor, Col. Vladimir I, Konchakov. Chinese Ambassador Mrs. Chen Baoliu called on Minister for Labour Lt-Gen. Aye Thoung, and on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office U Khin Maung Yin. Japanese Ambassador Takashi Tajima called on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (NLM 8/19) Aug. 24: Nepalese Ambassador Dr. Gopal Prasad Acharya called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 8/25) Aug. 25: Philippine Ambassador Mrs. Sonia C. Brady called on Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint to discuss women's affairs. Egyptian Ambassador Mohamad Hassem Ghanem called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. Japanese Ambassador Takashi Tajima called on Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw. UNDP Resident Representative Siba Kumar Das called on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin to discuss UNDP and UNDCP programmes. (NLM 8/ 26) Aug. 28: Nepalese Ambassador Dr. Gopal Prasad Acharya, and Bangladeshi Ambassador Brig. Chowdhury Khalequzzaman (Retd), called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. The Nepalese Ambassador called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. Yugoslav Charge d'Affaires Mr. Milos Beljic called on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt. (NLM 8/29) Aug. 29: Nepalese Ambassador Dr. Gopal Prasad Acharya called on Minister for Culture Lt-Gen. Aung Ye Kyaw. (NLM 8/30) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Aug. 28: The government has approved the appointment of Mr. Robert Anthony Eagleson Gordon, OBE, as new British Ambassador to Myanmar. Mr. Gordon was born on Feb. 9, 1952. He joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in 1973 and has served in various capacities, most recently as Deputy Head of Mission in Warsaw, where he was posted in July 1992. He is married with four children. (NLM 8/29) New Myanmar Ambassadors Aug. 28: U Kyaw Myint on Aug. 21 presented credentials in Bandar Seri Begawan to His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah as Myanmar Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam. (NLM 8/29) Myanmar and ASEAN Aug. 9: Philippine President Fidel Ramos said that the Philippines will support ASEAN membership for Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos. (NLM 8/10) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Projects Aug. 22: A 4-day Technical Workshop on Development of Human Resource Development Indicators, cosponsored by the Department of Labour and the UN Population Fund opened with 23 participants and 5 observers; 6 papers will be discussed. Deputy Minister for Labour U Kyaw Aye spoke. (NLM 8/23) Environmental Conference Aug. 26: The National Conference on Environmental Management, jointly organized by the National Commission for Environmental Affairs (NCEA) and the Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF) of Germany. 30 officials will participate, with foreign participants from the University of Singapore, ESCAP, UNDP, and ASEAN. The Regional Project Director of HSF, Mr. Georg Weber, and an ASEAN representative, Mr. Dhannan Sunoto, are expected. (NLM 8/27) // Aug. 28: Chairman Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw of the National Commission for Environmental Affairs addressed the opening of the conference, recounting Myanmar's "record of maintaining clean environment." He went on to say that "Environmental problems facing Myanmar today are not ones associated with industrialization and urbanization but those related to deforestation and loss of biodiversity." Despite Myanmar's low population density, "its forest resources and natural environment have come under growing pressure," not from commercial extraction but "due mainly to shifting cultivation and fuel-wood demand." 2.6 million people practice shifting cultivation in the border areas and "are unaware of the damage that their traditional farming methods cause to the environment. Mangrove forests of the country, particularly in the Ayeyawady delta too have come under pressure due to overexploitation of the forests for charcoal production." Use of fuelwood for cooking has in many areas "resulted in depletion of forest cover in marginal forests outside the reserve forest areas Similarly, some wildlife habitats have been degraded as forests are exploited for fuel-wood. Other factors that contributed to the loss of biological diversity are the widespread destruction of habitats during World War II and the insurrection which followed independence." The government is concentrating on social causes of environmental degradation, by trying to alleviate 22poverty, especially in the border areas. Other speakers were Regional Representative Mr. Georg Weber of the Hanns Seidel Foundation, Deputy Regional Representative of the UN Environment Programme Mr. Mitsuo Usuki, and others. The conference will last until Aug. 30. (NLM 8/28) Aug. 29: The Conference continued. Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw hosted a dinner for the participants. (NLM 8/30) Aug. 30: The Conference concluded, after unanimously adopting recommendations. The Hanns Seidel Foundation gave a reception for Conference participants at the Nawarat Hotel. (NLM 8/31) Donations from Abroad [We report here donations apparently from foreign sources, except for donations incidental to the visits of business visitors, etc., which are included in accounts of the visits. We do not normally report the numerous articles on donations by Burmese individuals inside Burma and Burmese companies to government, religious, and social organizations and charities.] Aug. 2: French Ambassador Bernard Pottier presented 50,000 francs, and German Ambassador Dr. Wolfgang Weisner presented 15,000 Deutsche Marks, to build a school for the children of victims of the April 27 Bago fire. (NLM 8/3) Aug. 4: The German Ambassador presented an additional 20,000 Deutsche Marks, through UNDP, for Bago fire victims. (NLM 8/5) Aug. 8: Managing Director Mr. Lau Yin Leong of Atlantic Outline Myanmar Co. Ltd., accompanied by General Manager Daw Khin Khin May, donated K 500,000 for construction of a replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda on Salon Island, where he is building a hotel, and K 25,000 for tourism promotion. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 8: The Indonesian Embassy donated medicine worth $ 8,400 to the Ministry of Health. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 14: General Manager of Mitsubishi Corp. of Yangon Branch, Mr. N. Akiya, on behalf of the Football Federation of Japan, presented 200 footballs to the Sports and Physical Education Department (SPED). Aug. 14: Japan donated a Mitsubishi ambulance worth US$ 22,000 to the Mandalay Division of the Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 16: Dr. Robert Ritch, an American eye specialist, donated medicines worth US$ 22,643 to the Eye Hospital and Psychiatric Hospital. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 16: Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mr. Michael Deignan of Inchcape Marketing Service and Myanmar Borneo Company Ltd. donated medicines worth US$ 5,500 to the Health Department. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 17: Managing Director Mr. Raymond Decangle of Hyphens Marketing and Technical Services Co. Ltd. of Singapore and Manager Mr. Guy Damn of Biocodex Laboratories of France presented medicines valued at K 400,000 for Myanmar athletes training for the XVIII SEA Games. (NLM 8/18) // Aug. 19: Mr. Decangle of Hyphens, and Export Manager Mr. Alexandre Cepage of Theremex Laboratories of Monaco, presented a hot air stericizer [sic] worth K 100,000 to the Central Women's Hospital. A seminar on Severe Preeclampsia and Eclampsia was held at the Institute of Nursing. (NLM 8/20) Aug. 18: Chairman Mr. Shuni Chitakenaga of Daimex Co., Japan, presented a new strain of fish, the "SB Dai" to Col. Ba Hein, Commander of the People's Police Force (Special Branch). The fish, which can be raised for profit, will be raised in the ponds of the Special Branch's Welfare Association, which will distribute the fingerlings at moderate cost. (NLM 8/19) // Aug. 20: Chairman S. Takenaga [sic] donated medicines worth US$ 3,000 to the Tiger Parahita School for Development of National Races. (NLM 8/20) // Mr. Takenaga donated medicines worth US$ 2,000 and K 10,000 from Tanabe Seiyaru Co. Ltd. of Japan to the Women's Home in Bahan Township. (NLM 8/23) // Aug. 24: Medicines worth K 300,000 were donated to the No. 2 Military Hospital. (NLM 8/25) Aug. 24: General Manager Mr. T. Saito of Kanematsu Corp., Yangon Branch, donated five computers worth US$ 27,520 to the Basic Education Department. (NLM 8/25) Border & Regional Affairs Aug. 15: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Col. Tin Hlaing left for New Delhi to attend a national-level Myanmar-India border meeting. (NLM 8/16) // Aug. 22: The delegation returned, after discussing security, peace, and development on both sides of the border, drug eradication, border trade, sports and cultural exchange, etc. In New Delhi, they called on Minister for Home Affairs Mr. S.B. Chrvan, Minister of State Mr. P.M. Sayeed, Mr. Rajech Pilot, and Mr. R.L. Bhatia and Secretary Mr. Salman Haida of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Commerce Mr. P.G. Dambaram. (NLM 8/23) Social and Economic Cooperation Aug. 24: A note of programmes for cooperation between Myanmar and UNICEF from 1996-2000 was signed by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel and UNICEF Representative Mr. S.H. Umemoto. It calls for US$ 32.5 million from the UNICEF general fund and US$ 23.5 million from the additional fund, to be used in the sectors of "health and nutritional development, availability of water and sanitation, education and child development, communication and organization, child rights and protection." (NLM 8/26) Aug. 25: Director Mr. Kazushi Hashimoto and party of OECF of Japan called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel to discuss economic cooperation. (NLM 8/26) Aug. 29: A Japanese delegation led by Mr. Kenichi Kimiya of the Japanese Foreign Ministry met with Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt to discuss extension buildings for the Institute of Nursing with the aid of JICA. (NLM 8/30) FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors July 31: Leader of the WHO SE Asia Regional Anti-AIDS Project Dr. Jean Louis Lenboray and party, called on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt. (NLM 8/1) Aug. 13: United Nations Under Secretary-General Mr. Alvaro de Soto, envoy of the Secretary-General, accompanied by Ms. Beng Yong Chew of the Myanmar Office of the UN Political Department, arrived. (NLM 8/14) // Aug. 14: He called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (NLM 8/15) // Aug. 17: He called on Vice-Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye. (NLM 8/18) // Aug. 19: On Aug. 18 he called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. On the 19th he departed. (NLM 8/20) Aug. 14: An International Monetary Fund Mission led by Mr. John R. Dodsworth met with Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin to discuss Article IV of the IMF Charter. (NLM 8/15) // Aug. 15: He called on Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. (NLM 8/16) // Aug. 16: He called on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission. Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin hosted a dinner. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 25: A World Bank Economic Mission comprising Mr. Sven Burmester and Mr. Sudhir Shetty called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel to discuss Myanmar's economy including the market-oriented system and extensive participation of the private sector. (NLM 8/26) International NGO Visitors Aug. 22: A Consultative Mission of the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) of Yokahama, Japan, comprising Mr. Katsuhiro Kotan and Dato Baharuddin Haji Ghazali, called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe to discuss cooperation between Myanmar and ITTO. The Mission will remain in Myanmar until Aug. 30. (NLM 8/23) Aug. 22: Mr. Noraseth Pathmanand, Dr. S.G. Pharan, and Dr. Jon Kim Andrus of Rotary International called on Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin to discuss "extended vaccination projects in Myanmar including polio control programme." (NLM 8/23) Cultural Visitors Aug. 29: Principal Col. Lin Poh Seng of the Singapore National Defence College and party called on Director of Military Training Brig-Gen. Saw Lwin. (NLM 8/30) Medical Visitors Aug. 18: Dr. Lau Kear Wah and Dr. Asan Win Min of Singapore will speak of Intravenous Anaesthesia on Aug. 27, under the joint auspices of the Myanmar Medical Association (Central) and Zeneca Pharma, Singapore. (NLM 8/19) // Aug. 27: Dr. Lau Kear Wah spoke on Update on Cardiology, and Dr. Asan Win Min discussed Intravenous Anaesthesia: New Agent, New Dimension, both with the aid of videotapes. (NLM 8/28) Business Visitors [Although we rarely note it, business and other visitors calling on Myanmar officials are frequently accompanied by the Ambassador from their country. -- HCMacD.] July 31: A Malaysian economic mission led by Mr. Tan Sri Tajudin Ramil called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 8/1) Aug. 1: An 11 member Malaysian business delegation led by Mr. Tun Daim Zainuddin called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 8/2) Aug. 4: Singapore Member of Parliament Mr. S. Chandler Das, Chairman Mr. Tang I. Fang of United Engineers Ltd., and Senior Adviser Mr. Takuya Yoshida of Itochu Corporation, called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 8/5) Aug. 14: Chairman Lt-Gen. (Retd) Ng Jui Ping of Chartered Industries of Singapore called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 8/15) // Aug. 15: He called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 15: Vice-Chairman Mr. John G. Vandermeer and Mr. Philip Grove of Unocal Oil Co. called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. (NLM 8/16) Aug. 15: A seafood business mission led by Singapore Trade Development called on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung to discuss investment in fish and prawn processing. (NLM 8/16) Aug. 15: A 32-member Thai trade mission led by Chairman Mr. Singh Tangcharoen of the Kanchanaburi Province Federation of Thai Industries arrived and met with members of the Myanmar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and visited mills and factories. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 16: Vice-Chairman Mr. Tsunao Hashimoto and party of Sony Corporation of Japan called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. [see also under Project Inaugurations, below]. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 21: President Mr. Shmuel Dankner of the Dankner Group and party called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 21: Chairman Mr. Seri Somboonsakdikul of S Sereechai Beauty Co. of Thailand participated in a demonstration of haircutting and the use of Lolane beauty products, arranged with Grand Wynn Enterprises Ltd. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 21: Vice-President Mr. Chung Il Chung of Hyundai Corp. of Korea and party called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel to discuss oil and gas exploration, power generation, mining, investment, etc. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 24: Executive Managing Director Mr. Chae-Su Kim and Deputy General Manager Mr. Suck-Koo Kim of Daewoo Corp., and Manager Mr. Seong-Min Baik of Daewoo Heavy Industries Ltd., called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win tod discuss cooperation in aviation, investment, and tourism. (NLM 8/25) Aug. 29: A 5-man delegation led by Chairman Mr. Hak Bong Ko of Engineering and Construction Co. Ltd. (POSEC) of the Pohan Iron and Steel Co. Ltd. of Korea called on Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min to discuss "proposal to promote production at Ywama Steel Mill as a joint venture...." (NLM 8/30) Aug. 29: Adviser to the President of Mitsui Co. Ltd. Mr. Akira Utsumi and party called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, and on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 8/ 30) Aug. 29: A delegation led by Mr. Jeffrey Goh Boon Lok of Singapore Plastic Industry Association called on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung to discuss prospects for "mutual cooperation on production of plastic goods." (NLM 8/30) // Aug. 30: The 17-member delegation called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. Aug. 30: Managing Director Mr. Tan Thye Kwang and party of Right Diplomat Pte. Ltd. of Singapore called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 8/31) Aug. 30: Chairman Mr. Tatsuro Taninzumi of Japan International Management Services Inc. and party called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 8/31) Religious Visitors Aug. 20: His Eminence Josep Cardinal Tomko, President of the Vatican Propagation of the Faith, accompanied by Apostolic Delegate to Myanmar Archbishop Luigi Bressen, Archbishop Gabriel T. Mahn Gaby, Catholic Bishops of Myanmar and Priests, celebrated High Mass together at St. Mary's Cathedral. Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, diplomats, and Catholic faithful attended. A dinner in honor of Cardinal Tomko was hosted by Archbishop Gabriel T. Mahn Gaby and the Myanmar Catholic hierarchy. (NLM 8/21) // Aug. 23: The Roman Catholic Mission of Mandalay hosted a dinner in honor of Josep Cardinal Tomko, attended by Chairman Brig-Gen. Ye Myint of the Mandalay Law and Order Restoration Council, Mandalay Mayor Col. Sein Win Aung, and other officials. (NLM 8/24) // Aug. 25: He called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Accompanied by his secretary Monsignor McCabe, he called on the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Sayadaws at Zabubdipa Kyaungsaung, Kaba Aye, saying "that Myanmar is a peaceful land home to kind-hearted citizens and that there is freedom of worship." He then departed for home. (NLM 8/26) Aug. 28: Eight Japanese from the Theravada Buddhism Propagation Association in Japan were ordained as Buddhist monks at the Maha Sasana Vepulla Kyaungtaik in Yangon. Mr. Richard of J/R Marine Pte. Ltd. donated K 30,000 to the Ministry of Religious Affairs. (NLM 8/29) Brunei Communications Minister Aug. 2: Minister of Communications Mr. Dato Seri Laila Jasa Awang Haji Zakaria Bin Datu Mahawangsa Haji Sulaiman of Brunei Darussalam and party arrived, and called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. Myanma Airways and Myanma Airways International officials joined in the discussions. Later the Minister called on Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha. (NLM 8/3) Aug. 3: Myanmar and Brunei signed an Air Services Agreement. Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win praised Brunei's assistance to Myanmar, including the lease of a Boeing 757-200 ER to Myanmar Airways International in 1993, and the training of MAI crew. "The Royal Brunei Airlines is always welcome to make overflights over Myanmar airspace or land at our airports," he said. The Brunei Minister responded, saying "our officials have been able to exchange views on the plans for Royal Brunei Airlines to operate to Yangon and most hopefully beyond." The Minister later toured sites in Yangon, including the Myanma Gems Museum, the Shwedagon Pagoda, and Bogyoke Aung San Market. (NLM 8/4) Aug. 4: The Brunei Minister called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, and on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. He and his delegation then departed by air. (NLM 8/5) Korean Special Envoy Aug. 7: Special Envoy of the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Korea, Deputy Minister for Planning and Management of the Foreign Ministry Mr. Hang Kyung Kim, accompanied by a colleague, arrived and were given a dinner by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (NLM 8/8) // Aug. 8: He called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. He held talks with Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw on economic cooperation, and presented 10 computers to the Foreign Ministry. (NLM 8/9) // Aug. 9: He toured the Myanma Gems Museum and the Defence Services Museum, and called on Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha. (NLM 8/10) // Aug. 10: He departed. (NLM 8/11) Lao Military Delegation Aug. 14: A Lao Army study delegation led by Capt. Bounsung Yathotu was given a dinner by Laotian Ambassador Ly Bounkham, attended by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. (NLM 8/15) // Aug. 16: Director of Resettlements of the Ministry of Defence Col. Thaik Tun hosted a dinner for the 5-member Lao Army agriculture and livestock breeding study mission. (NLM 8/ 17) US Congressman Bob Livingston Aug. 21: An 8-member delegation headed by US Congressman Mr. Bob Livingston, Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, arrived and were welcomed by Defence Services Judge-Advocate-General Brig-Gen. Than Oo, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyunt Swe, and others. (NLM 8/ 22) Aug. 22: He and his delegation were received by Vice-Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Gen. Maung Aye, and SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. They called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, who also hosted a dinner, and on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. They visited the Shwedagon Pagoda. Meanwhile, Mrs. Livingston and three delegation members, were escorted on visits to the Pyidaungsu Aye Yeik Nyein, the Myanmar Gems Museum, and Bogyoke Aung San Market. [photos] (NLM 8/23) Aug. 24: The delegation flew by Tatmadaw aircraft to Bagan on Aug. 23, and visited the Shwezigon Pagoda and Ananda Temple, a lacquerware shop, and the archaeological museum. They then flew to Mandalay, and visited the Maha Muni Buddha, the Myanan Sankya Shwenanadaw, and Sutaungpyi Pagoda, as well as a weaving and an embroidery establishment. They were hosted at dinner by Central Commander Brig-Gen. Ye Myint, and entertained by the Mandalay Myoma Music Troupe and Theatrical Division. After overnighting at the Nanmyo guesthouse, they visited the University for Development of National Races in Sagaing Ywathitgyi, and Amarapura, before returning to Yangon. (NLM 8/25) // Aug. 25: He departed for home. (NLM 8/26) Bangladesh Parliamentarian Aug. 22: Bangladesh Member of Parliament Mr. Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, ex-president of the Chittagong Chamber of Commerce and Industry and President of the Chittagong Stock Exchange Ltd., and party, called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 8/23) Singapore Diplomats Aug. 22: A group of 17 personnel from the Singapore Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 8/23) US Senators Aug. 24: A US Senate Delegation led by US Senators Arlen Specter and George H. Brown called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, accompanied by United States Charge d'Affaires Ms. Marilyn A. Meyers. (photo caption NLM 8/25) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations July 31: Staff Officer U Ngwe Thein of the Central Statistical Organization left July 29 for Japan to attend the July 31-Sept. 29 First Course/Workshop on Sample Design for Household and Establishment Survey. (NLM 8/1) Aug. 17: A Myanmar study tour led by Staff Officer U Min Lwin of the Cooperatives Department left for Tokyo to attend a Cooperative Agriculture Course from Aug. 18-Sept. 15. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 21: Director U Soung Tin of the Central Statistical Organization left for China to attend an Aug. 23-25 workshop on International Statistical Integration in Beijing, organized by the International Statistical Institute for Netherlands and the Asian Development Bank. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 30: Tutor Daw Yin Yin Tun of the Mechanical Engineering Department, Yangon Institute of Technology, left for China to study Mechanical Engineering, leading to a Master's Degree, with assistance from the Chinese Government. Lecturer Daw Tin Kyi of the Chinese Language Department, Institute of Foreign Languages, left similarly to attend a Chinese Language Course leading to a Ph.D. Degree. (NLM 8/31) Delegations to Meetings & Events Aug. 13: A delegation led by Chief Justice U Aung Toe left for China to attend the Aug. 16-20 6th Meeting of the Chief Justices of Asia and Pacific Region. Other members are Director-General U Ba Than of the Supreme Court, and the Chief Justice's PSO U Myint Thein Tun. (NLM 8/14) // Aug. 25: He returned. (NLM 8/26) Aug. 30: A 4-member Myanmar Red Cross delegation led by Acting Executive Director U Kyaw Soe left of Singapore to participate in the Red Cross and Red Crescent Cultural Charity Fashion Gala sponsored by the Singapore Red Cross Society. Other members are Daw Aye Aye Myint of the Myanma Red Cross, costume designer Dollar Myint Aung, and Ma Ei Zin Tun (Mawlamyine) and Ma Tin Moe Lwin (YIT). (NLM 8/31) Kunming Trade Fair 95 Aug. 1: The Myanmar trade delegation to the Kunming Trade Fair 95, to be held Aug. 8-16, left for Mandalay, and will continue on by road via Muse. The delegation is led by Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi, and includes North-East Commander Brig-Gen. Tin Ngwe, South-West Command Tactical Operations Commander Col. Nay Win Oo, Managing Director U Khin Maung Oo of Inspection and Agency Services, Director U Tin Maung Win of the Trade Department, and the Minister's PSO Capt. Moe Kyaw. Also attending the fair are Chairman U Khin Maung Yi and Joint General Secretary U Zaw Min Win of the Myanmar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Managing Director U Tin Win Aung of Joint Venture Corporation No. 3 Ltd., and representatives of Cooperatives Societies, JVC-6, and 39 business organizations, for a total of 140. A 41-member advance team left by air to Lashio, en route to Kunming to prepare the Myanmar displays. About 150 Myanmar delegation members will attend the opening of the Border Trade Office in Muse on Aug. 3, en route to Kunming. After the trade fair, the Minister and five delegations members will tour China and Hong Kong to discuss trade promotion. (NLM 8/2) Aug. 3: A second group of 40 flew to Lashio, where they will proceed by road via Muse to the Kunming Fair. (NLM 8/3) Aug. 9: Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi and delegation, after dedicating the border trade office in Muse on Aug. 5, went on to China by car on Aug. 6. (NLM 8/10) Aug. 12: Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi met with Governor Mr. He Zhi Qing on Aug. 6, and discussed the Trade Fair. On Aug. 7, he met with Secretary Mr. Gao Yan of the Yunnan Communist Party, and with the Chairman of Yunnan Machinery Co. (NLM 8/13) Aug. 13: Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi on Aug. 8 inaugurated 50 Myanmar booths, the largest number from any country, at the opening of the Kunming Trade Fair-95. Members of the 160-member Myanmar delegation met with their Chinese counterparts, led by Yunnan Governor Mr. He Zhi Qiang, to discuss economic cooperation. On Aug. 9, the Minister visited the Yun Feng Walking Tractor Factory, and then left for Jinghong in Xishuangbana District, where the visited Ganlanba, a village of Dai nationals. On Aug. 10 they visited the boarder town of Dalo, and returned to Mongla in Myanmar; returning to Jinghong and Kunming. On Aug. 11 they visited the Kunming stone forest, and the Wood Slab Factory that makes slabs and briquettes from sugarcane and sawdust. Myanmar Consul-General U Win Aung hosted a dinner at the Myanmar Consulate-General in Kunming. (NLM 8/14) Aug. 21: Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi returned, via Hong Kong, from the Kunming Trade Fair. He had toured China after with four colleagues: Tactical Operations Commander Col. Nay Win Oo of South-West Command, Managing Director U Khin Maung Oo of the Inspection and Agency Services, Director U Tin Maung Win of the Trade Department, and PSO Capt. Moe Kyaw. (NLM 8/22) // Aug. 26: The last batch of Myanmar participants returned home to Yangon. (NLM 8/27) Rail Minister to Indonesia Aug. 1: A delegation led by Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein left for Jakarta on a goodwill visit. (NLM 8/2) // Aug. 10: The delegation returned. In Indonesia, the Minister called on Indonesian Minister for Communications Dr. Hariyanto Dhanutirto on Aug. 2, and paid a courtesy call on Vice President Mr. Try Sutrisno. (NLM 8/11) World Women's Conference Aug. 5: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who is Patron of the All-Myanmar Preparatory Committee for the Fourth World Women's Conference, addressed the group, noting that "Myanmar women have been incredibly fortunate in that they have not had to battle for equal rights -- they have had them as a birthright." Nevertheless, Myanmar is attending the conference, so that Myanmar women can meet with other women around the world, and "for them to realize that the rights that are being discussed are age-old rights that Myanmar women have enjoyed and with that realization, be proud to be a Myanmar women." Myanmar have enjoyed equal rights since the beginning of Myanmar civilization 2000 years ago. The national duty of Myanmar women today is "preservation of our Myanmar culture and national heritage and nurturing a sense of patriotism...." (NLM 8/6) Aug. 29: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt met with Myanmar delegates to the World Women's Conference, and told them that "unlike women of other nations...Myanmar women are enjoying equal rights.... Hence, he said, the Myanmar delegation's attendance is not to demand for Myanmar women, but to present objective conditions of the rights enjoyed by them and improvement of their status.... He pointed out some Western nations are fabricating and disseminating news that women in the Western and European nations are enjoying rights but those in Asian and African nations are note.... The delegates are to clarify the rights of Myanmar women and refute the accusations most firmly. He cautioned that while safeguarding and enhancing the prestige of the nation, the delegates are to avoid acts which may harm others...." (NLM 8/30) Aug. 30: The Myanmar delegation, led by Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen. Soe Myint, left for the Conference in Beijing. Members are Director-General U Than Po of the Social Welfare Department, Ambassador to Indonesia U Nyi Nyi Than, and Staff Officer Capt. Tun Lin. They will also attend the Women's Conference of the Non-Aligned Countries in Beijing, Sept. 1-2. The remaining seven members will leave Sept. 3. (NLM 8/31) Delegations Return [Return of delegations whose departure was noted in early issues, or whose departure NLM did not cover] Aug. 1: Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw and delegation returned from the 28th ASEAN Meeting in Brunei. On July 27, Minister U Ohn Gyaw called on ASEAN Chairman Brunei Foreign Minister Prince Mohamad Bolkiah and "conveyed to him the Instrument of Accession of the Union of Myanmar to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in South East Asia. He also called on the various foreign ministers attending the session. (NLM 8/2) Aug. 3: The Tatmadaw delegation led by Director of Artillery and Armour Col. Lun Thi returned from China. (NLM 8/4) Aug. 7: Chief Editor U Kyaw Min of the New Light of Myanmar returned from the First Asian Translators Forum in Beijing. (NLM 8/8) Aug. 10: Students attending the Seventh Get-together of Students and Youth of Asia and Pacific Region, held in Fukuoka, Japan, from July 30-Aug. 8, returned. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 12: Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay returned from a visit, begun July 26, to China and Vietnam. He visited various places in China, calling on Vice Chairman of the People's Congress Mr. Wan Guan Yin and meeting with Mayor Mr. Li Qi Yun of Beijing, Mayor Mr. Zhen Si Lin of Nanking, Mayor Mr. Xi Guo Yang of Yangzhou, and Vice-Mayor Mr. Sha Ling of Shanghai. In Vietnam he called on Prime Minister Mr. Vo Van Kiet, and met with Mayor Mr. Hoan Van Nghien of Hanoi and Mayor Mr. Pruong Tan Sang of Ho Chi Minh City. (NLM 8/13) Aug. 23: The 30-member Youth Delegation led by Secretary U Tin Maung Oo of the Mandalay USDA and others returned from the youth get-together and funfare of Kirab Ramaja Nansinal IV 1995 in Djakarta, Indonesia. (NLM 8/24) MYANMAR GAZETTE Probationary Appointments The SLORC appointed the following, on probation: Aug. 16: U Than Myint, Director, to be Director-General, Bureau of Special Investigation, Ministry of Home Affairs. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 23: Col. Thura Maung Ko (BC/10581), Officer on Special Duty, to be Director-General, Water Resources Utilization Department, Ministry of Agriculture. U Ohn Myint, Director, to be Director-General, Irrigation Department, Ministry of Agriculture. (NLM 8/24) Aug. 30: U Kyaw Tun, Deputy Director-General, to be Director-General, Prisons Department, Ministry of Home Affairs. (NLM 8/ 31) Appointments Confirmed The SLORC has confirmed the following, after one-year of probation: Aug. 16: Dr. Maung Mar as Managing Director, Myanma Cotton and Sericulture Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture. U Sein Win as Managing Director, Myanma Agriculture Service, Ministry of Agriculture. U Tin Aung as Managing Director, Myanma Plantation Crops Enterprise, Ministry of Agriculture. U Tin Hlaing as Managing Director, Myanma Small Loans Division, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. U Khin Maung as Managing Director, Myanma Investment and Commercial Bank, Ministry of Finance and Revenue. U Aung Gyi as Managing Director, Myanma Ceramic Industries, Ministry of Industry-1. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 23: U Tin Win as Director-General, Factories and General Labour Laws Inspection Department, Ministry of Labour. U Ohn Lwin as Director-General, Project Appraisal and Progress Reporting Department, Ministry of National Planning and Development. U Tun Aung Myint as Director-General, Marine Administration Department, Ministry of Transport. (NLM 8/24) MILITARY Insurgent Attacks Aug. 10: A KNU mine blew off the leg of a villager from Tamilegon Village, Kawkareik Township, Kayin State, on July 18. (NLM 8/11) Further Splits in KNU Aug. 9: Angered by the split in KNU led by the Myainggyingu Sayadaw, Bo Mya formed the Gaungbaungphyu group under KNU Sayadaw Nai Maung Hla to assassinate him. But 47 members of the group, including two hermits, led by Lt. Kyaw Kyaw, returned to the legal fold on June 11. So Bo Mya assigned Johnny to kill the families of the group. On June 27 Johnny killed Lt. Ahmyaing and 7 members in Palupalawkhwin. On June 30, Lt. Maung Bi murdered 9 disciples of Nai Maung Hla, and shot 48 Kayin men and women at Noponhta village and Kalemuhta refugee camp in Thailand. They also expelled vegetarians from Nobo village. The Johnphyu faction of the Kayins attacked the fleeing people. So 291 people from 73 households fled to Myainggyingu Village on July 31. So far, 23,812 people (11,124 males and 12,688 females) from 4,373 households have arrived in the Myainggyingu area, and are being looked after. (NLM 8/10) Surrenders by Armed Group Members Aug. 15: Between July 1-6, 35 members of various armed groups returned to the legal fold [names and details]. (NLM 8/16) Aug. 19: Between July 7-17, 33 members of various armed groups returned to the legal fold [names and details]. (NLM 8/20) Aug. 21: 30 members of the KNU armed group returned to the legal fold Aug. 19 in Ye Township, led by Regional in-charge Capt. Saw Pho Nyein of KNU No. 6 Brigade. (NLM 8/22) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Aug. 11-12,15: Second Seminar on Investment Opportunities in Myanmar at Myanmar Centre for Business and Information in Tokyo, with speech on Development of Myanmar Economy by U Aung Myint. [(1) Seminar was held July 11-12 at the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and was attended by 350 people from business and Government. U Aung Myint, Director-General of Investment and Company Administration, surveyed the Myanmar economy. Foreign investment in Myanmar totalled US$ 2.5 billion as of May 1995; Japan was sixth largest investor with $ 101 million. (2) U Aung Myint's survey continued. (3) Investment in Myanmar-- rules and regulations.] Aug. 14: Elephants, the Flagship Species of Myanmar, by Kum (MTE). [Myanmar has 10-17,000 domestic elephants, of whom 6,000 work at timber harvesting. Of the 36-44,000 wild Asian elephants (compared with 700,000 wild African elephants), 6-10,000 are in Myanmar, second only to the 17,500-22,000 in India. Need to protect elephants and their habitat. Elephants used in logging are better for the environment than heavy machinery.] Aug. 15: Sittaung River water, Phyu farmer & summer paddy, by Tin Ohn Maung. [Progress in Phyu Township.] Aug. 17: Amazing progress achieved in paddy cultivation, by Ye Myint Pe. [Since SLORC took over.] Aug. 18: Building bridges to facilitate convenient travel, haulage, by Kyi Win Nyunt. [Review of SLORC projects.] Aug. 20: Railways help in developing the Union, by Aung Mya Kyaw. [From before to 1988 Myanma railways decreased from 2,058 to 1,976 miles. When current construction projects are completed, Myanmar will have 2,739 miles of railway.] Aug. 23: Increasing cultivation of industrial raw material crops, by Maung Maung Nyo. [Progress since 1992-93, in cotton, sugarcane, jute, and rubber.] Aug. 24: What bird is that? by Dr. Mya Mya Nu. [Description of the two species of swiftlets that produce edible birdsnests, prized by Chinese for soup. The price of white nests is US$ 1,100-1,500 per kilo, with 105 nests per kilo. Black nests are worth only one tenth as much. Color of nests depends on which of the two species the swiftlet is. In Myanmar they are found in eight places, especially in Tanintharyi Division.] Aug. 26: Striving to secure water for agriculture, by Thura Nyunt. [SLORC irrigation projects and agricultural policies.] Aug. 27: Railways to develop regions of the kinsman, by Aung Mya Kyaw. [20 railway projects begun since 1988.] Aug. 28: South Nawin Dam will irrigate more, by Maung Maung Nyo. [History of the dam, visited on Aug. 20.] Aug. 29-31: Report prepared for UNOCAL-- Subject: Indices of Progress in Myanmar. [(1) Overview of social progress in Myanmar, in report prepared at the request of UNOCAL Corporation, featuring graphs taken from data in official Myanmar and UN published statistics [figures below are estimates from selected graphs]. {1} Primary schools: 21,000 in 1980; 38,000 in 1994. {2} Secondary schools: 1600 in 1980; 3100 in 1994. {3} Primary teachers: 80,000 in 1980; 200,000 in 1994. {4} Secondary teachers: 30,000 in 1980; 70,000 in 1994. {5} Hospitals: 510 in 1978; 730 in 1994. {6} Hospital beds: 23,100 in 1978; 27,900 in 1994. {7} Doctors: 6,100 in 1978; 13,500 in 1994. {8} Nurses: 4,000 in 1978; 9,000 in 1994. {9} Infant mortality rate (per 1,000): 98 in 1970; 65 in 1994. {12} Life expectancy: males-53 in 1980, 59 in 1994; females-57 in 1980; 63 in 1994. [(2) {18} GDP: 40,000 million kyats in 1980; 230,000 million kyats in 1994. {19} GDP per capita: 1,000 kyats in 1980; 5,500 kyats in 1994. [(3) {20} Electrical capacity: 210,000 KW in 1980; 1,200,000 KW in 1994. {21} Electrical production: 1,300 million KWH in 1980; 3,000 million KWH in 1994. {22} Telephones: 52,000 in 1989; 120,000 in 1994. {23} Agricultural growth rate: 1.3% in 1989-90; 8% in 1992-93.] Aug. 29: Air Mandalay's maiden flight to Chiang Mai, by Soe Naung. [Feature account of inaugural flight.] Aug. 31: Utilizing the Ayeyawady Water, by Sein Shwe Hlaing. [Irrigation projects under way.] Economic Inaugurations Aug. 7: A new Mandalay Internal Revenue Department Office building, costing K 30 million, was inaugurated on Aug. 6 by Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. (NLM 8/8) Aug. 10: A new 7-storey building of No. 6 Primary School on Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, was handed over to the Ministry of Education, in the presence of SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 10: A second batch of river boats (1 double-decker, 3 triple-deckers) imported from Yunnan Industrial Import-Export Corporation arrived, and were inspected by Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 14: The K 2 million Bawlake TV retransmission station was inaugurated July 29. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 16: The Sony Sales and Service Centre opened in Mandalay, in the presence of Sony Corporation Vice President Mr. T. Hashimoto and others. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 23: State Law and Order Restoration Council inaugurated the Thazi Reservoir in Monywa Township, which will irrigate some 1,500 acres. [page of photos] (NLM 8/24) Aug. 23: A tourist souvenir shop was opened near nationalities village at the People's Park. It will sell folk art items. "It also rents traditional costumes of nationals for taking souvenir photos." (NLM 8/24) Aug. 29: A bowling alley for the Myanmar Bowling Federation was celebrated at the Mai Hwa Restaurant, in the presence of SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt as Chairman of the National Health Committee and other officials. (NLM 8/30) Advertisements =========================================== Aug. 15: Half page ad for the Tiger Beer Gold Rush lottery -- check your "ring pulls" and "crown caps" for winning ones. To be awarded are 12 10g gold wafers, 21 2.5 gram gold wavers, 110 1 gram gold wafers, and Tiger Beer watches, pens, and lighters. (NLM 8/15) =========================================== Aug. 16: Advertising insert. One side for Myanmar Airways International, celebrating its second anniversary; the other for Rothmans of Pall Mall Myanmar cigarette company, a joint venture with capital of US$ 6.2 million established by The Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd. and Rothmans Myanmar Holdings Ltd. Singapore. (NLM 8/16) =========================================== Aug. 23: Half page ad for ACER, "The World's Seventh largest PC available in Myanmar". Display and exhibition at Strand Hotel, from 13:00-17:00 hours on Aug. 27. Authorized Distributor: MCT [Myanmar Computer Technology] Co. Ltd., 214 Seikkantha St., Kyauktada Township, Yangon. Tel: 87480. Fax 90037. (NLM 8/23) =========================================== Aug. 27: Full page ad from Air Mandalay announcing flights between Yangon, Mandalay, and Chiang Mai, two or three times a week. (NLM 8/27) =========================================== Aug. 27: Advertisement welcoming the grand opening of Bursa Myanmar Tobacco Col. Ltd. (Thanlyin). (NLM 8/27) =========================================== International Business Projects [This category will now also include reports on the establishment of Joint Ventures, formerly a separate category.] Aug. 6: Myanma Shipyards handed over the MV Aquatic Conserver, a sea pollution control vessel, and a 100-foot barge for carrying polluted water, built in cooperation with Meiwa Marine and Industrial Pte. Ltd. of Singapore, to P.T. Cumawis Co. of Indonesia. The 125-foot vessel cost $ 2 million, and is for service at Total Oil Co. of Indonesia offshore oil wells. "It is the first instance for Myanmar entering into contract with a foreign company to build a vessel with the inspection of Lloyds." (NLM 8/7) Aug. 9: Merlion Express (Myanmar) Pte. Ltd. opened at 89 Phonegyi St., Lanmadaw Township, Yangon, in the presence of Managing Director Mr. P Ang. "The company deals in container and transportation services and will extend ship agency, airport transport, air cargo handling and agency services." (NLM 8/10) Aug. 11: International Panorama Resource Corp. of Canada, represented by President Mr. Kenneth MacLeod, and the Department of Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration, represented by Director-General U Soe Myint, signed a "contract on agreement for mineral prospecting, mineral exploration and feasibility study for developing gold resources in Block 9 at Pyinmana region...." Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min spoke. (NLM 8/12) // Aug. 12: The Ministry of Mines gave a dinner at the Gems Emporium to mark the contract signing. (NLM 8/13) Aug. 15: Pacific Arc Exploration NL of Australia, represented by President Mr. Edwin Frank Stoyle, and the Department of Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration signed a "contract for mineral prospecting, mineral exploration and feasibility study" for developing gold and copper resources in Bloc 8 in Popa region and Block 13 at Kwinthonze area, Thabeikkyin Township. Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min spoke. A dinner at the Strand Hotel celebrated the signing. (NLM 8/16) Aug. 18: East Asia Gold Corp. of the United States, represented by President Mr. John B. Hite, and the Department of Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration signed a "contract for mineral prospecting, mineral exploration and feasibility study" for developing gold and copper resources in Block 14 in Thabeikkyin Township. Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min spoke. Also attending was US Embassy representative Mr. Angus Simmons and others. A dinner to celebrate the signing was held at the Summit Parkview Hotel. (NLM 8/19) Aug. 22: Managing Director Mr. William Foo and Regional Manager Mr. Willie Koh of AST Co. Ltd. attended the opening of World Distribution Myanmar Co. Ltd., represented by Chairman U Kyi Hwet; they presented computers to Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint and to Lt-Col. Khin Maung Lwin of the Ministry of Defence, and cash to daily newspapers and other media. (NLM 8/23) Aug. 23: Exe Design (Myanmar) Co. Ltd. of Japan, represented by President Mr. Hitoshi Tani, and the DHSHD Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development signed an agreement for construction of the US$ 30 million 169-room Sakura Residence Yangon Luxury Serviced Apartment complex on the corner of Inya and Panwa Roads in Kamayut Township, Yangon. The company "will pay two million dollars as land-leased premium to the government" and the complex will open in mid-1997. Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Saw Tun spoke. A dinner was held to celebrate. (NLM 8/24) Aug. 27: Bursa Myanmar Tobacco Co. Ltd., a joint venture between Zaykabar Co. Ltd. of Myanmar and Sampoerna Group of Indonesia, represented by Mr. James Barnes, opened the Sampoerna Cigarette Factory on Thilawa Road in Thanlyin, attended by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and other officials. The K 103.8 million factory (including US$ 15.5 million) will export 1.5 million cartons and sell locally 150,000 cartons per month. (NLM 8/28) Aug. 27: Acer Computer Company appointed Myanmar Computer Technology (MCT) Col. Lt. as its authorized distributor in Myanmar, in conjunction with Acer '95, the first Acer Product and Technology Showcase and Seminar held at the Strand Hotel. Vice President Mr. Lee Kim Hwat of SV-Acer and Patron U Myint Soe of MCT Co. Ltd. signed the Distributor Agreement. Acer then presented a computer each to the Ministries of Trade, Defence, and Education. (NLM 8/28) Business Courses Aug. 14: Basic hotel courses co-sponsored by Myanma Hotels and Tourism Services and Baiyoke Kandawgyi Hotel opened. 19 trainees will attend the 3-month course on food and beverage service, and 32 the course on food and beverage production. (NLM 8/15) Aug. 16: Procedure Course No. 3 on Export and Import opened at the Ministry of Trade; 81 trainees are attending the 6-week course. (NLM 8/17) Aug. 25: A six-week Job Orientation Course No. 2/95 for Assistant Managers of Myanma Agricultural and Rural Development Bank opened, and was addressed by Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. He said agricultural loans have increased from three billion to nine billion kyats. (NLM 8/26) Aug. 30: Seminar on Business Education No. 39 was held. Retired Governor of the Central Bank of Myanmar U Maung Maung Hla lectured on State Level Business Management for Steady Progress of Economics. (NLM 8/31) Banking Aug. 4: The Krung Thai Bank Public Co. Ltd. of Thailand opened a Representative Office at Building No. 46, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, in the presence of Chairman Dr. Aran Thammano and President Mr. Sirin Nimmanahaeminda, and of Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin. (NLM 8/5) Aug. 4: Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin inspected the Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) at the Myanma Gonye Road branch of the Myanmar May Flower Bank; the bank is the first to establish ATMs at all its branches. The bank uses May Flower Bank Cards, and issues money at all its banks "round the clock beginning 1 September." (NLM 8/5) Aug. 26: The Asia Wealth Bank Ltd. launched its credit card. (NLM 8/27) Computer Association Aug. 2: SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo addressed meeting No. 9/95 of the All-Myanmar Computer Association Organizing Committee, which was also attended by several Cabinet Ministers. He noted that SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe "gave guidance that a computer association should be formed in the way non-governmental organizations were formed," and that instructions to this effect had been issued and "a computer law (draft) was known to have been written." He spoke of the importance of information technology and the need for an Association. Chairman of the Committee, Deputy Education Minister Dr. Than Nyunt "reported on Computer Science Development Law (Draft)...." (NLM 8/3) 200 Kyat Note Issued Aug. 4: A Press Release announced the issuance August 16, 1995, of a new 200 Kyat Note with a new type of security thread and new watermark image, as part of the new series bearing the King Lion motif. A watermark of the Myanmar figure for 100 is placed under the lion head watermark, and a silver "window type security thread" is inserted next to the lion head watermark, with the letters SPW microprinted all along it. Otherwise, the note is identical to present 200 kyat notes, which remain valid as legal tender. [photos] (NLM 8/5) Privatization Aug. 7: The Privatization Commission, in accord with Meeting 29/95 of the Myanmar Cabinet on Aug. 2, 1995, has transferred four cinemas and two factories to private entrepreneurs. The factories are: Khitlaik Factory, No. 2 Machinery Factory, Lower Pazundaung Street, and Dry Cell Factory, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yangon. The cinemas are: Yoma (Taunggyi), Aung Thiri (Yankin Township), Thiri Mingala (Lashio), and Thein (Thandwe). (NLM 8/8, corrected 8/9) Environmental Problems Aug. 10: A workshop met to review the draft report on Case Study on loss of fisheries and increased coastal erosion from reclamation of wetlands and mangroves depletion in Myanmar, prepared by the National Commission for Environmental Affairs. It focused on the Ayeyawady delta area. (NLM 8/11) Jewellery Shops Warned Aug. 24: Myanma Gems Enterprise has "permitted registration of private jewellery shops and issue cash memos in bilingual Myanmar and English to them." However, some shops, Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein noted, are misusing the memos and smuggling gems out of the country. He warned against this and said "a new law will be promulgated soon concerning gems." Action will be taken against ten shops in Yangon and Mandalay. (NLM 8/25) Airlines Aug. 27: Air Mandalay inaugurated its Yangon-Chiang Mai air route; it is a joint venture of Myanma Airways (40%) and Air Mandalay Holdings Pte. Ltd. (60%), in the presence of Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. On arrival in Chiang Mai, the plane was greeted by Thai officials including Chian Mai Governor Mr. Veerachai Naewbonnian, Air Mandalay Ltd. President Dr. Tun Shin, Managing Director Mr. Shang Hon Kong, and Thai Airways Agent Mr. Khun Pai Chit. Regular Yangon-Chiang Mai flights will begin Sept. 18, and Yangon-Mandalay-Chiang Mai flights in November. (NLM 8/28) // Aug. 30: Editorial: New external route. [Air Mandalay is flying brand-new ATR 72-210QC aircraft, manufactured by the Franco-Italian Avions de Transport Regional and equipped with PW127 Pratt & Whitney engines. Each aircraft can carry 66 passengers plus 4 crew. "Flight crew and maintenance engineers, consisting of Myanmar, French and Singaporeans, have undergone conversion training at the ATR Training Centre in Toulouse. Cabin crew were also trained in France and Singapore."] 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 118.35 109.92 122.84 1991 91.81 83.78 96.65 1992 81.34 96.02 95.98 1993 82.64 111.18 95.12 1994 120.16 120.94 117.36 1995 as of: Aug. 1: 56.93 55.91 58.50 Aug. 15: 66.57 65.91 67.99 Aug. 30: 70.51 69.06 72.48 Flood warnings and bulletins, for the Ayeyawady, Thanlwin, Sittoung and other rivers, continued through the month. No reports of damage were published, though flood damage was reported from China and Bangladesh. HEALTH Health Articles Aug. 3: Breastmilk is the Best Drink, by Dr. Ne Win (Myanmar Medical Association). [Importance of breast milk.] SPORTS Sports Articles Aug. 17: Introducing the art of Myanma glass-ball playing, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [The traditional Myanma "artistic physical exercise", which was "on the verge of total eclipse." "There were glass-ball players in Myanmar in the past till the outbreak of World War II. Later on the art began to decline. It is said that there are now only two artistes left: U Bo Sein (U Baho Sein) and his daughter, Junior Assistant Teacher Maw Maw Sein of Ye-U Tatmadaw in Shwebo District in Sagaing Division. These two artistes were discovered by the Shwebo District Law and Order Restoration Council Chairman Lt-Col. U Zun. They performed for SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe when he visited Shwebo on Aug. 6.] Aug. 24: South East Asian Games, by Kyaw Swe Aung. [Thailand will host the XVIII games this year, in Chiangmai, Dec. 9-17. It hopes for participation by Myanmar, Indonesia, Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam. There will be 28 competitive sports and one demonstration sport. 602 Myanmars will participate in archery, track and field, badminton, basketball, boxing, football, bowling, cycling, golf, gymnastics, judo, traditional regatta, caneball, shooting, silad olahraga {self-defence fighting}, swimming, table-tennis, taekwando, tennis, volleyball, weightlifting, yachting, hockey, and muay.] Myanmar Teams and Officials Aug. 7: The Myanmar Taekwando team, led by Executive U Khin Maung than of the Myanmar Taekwando Federation, which participated in the Aug. 2-6 Second Invitational Taekwando Tourney in Hanoi, Vietnam, returned. Seven teams, from Vietnam (2), Hong Kong (2), South Korea, Myanmar, and Singapore participated. Khaing Myat Soe won silver in middleweight and Phyoe Zaw Aung won silver in heavyweight. Pi Zay Ye Tin won bronze in pinweight, Tin Kyaw Lat won bronze in bantamweight, and Thet Naing Oo won bronze in featherweight. The Myanmar team finished third in the tournament. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 21: Sports Officer U Maung Maung of the Higher Education Department, and runner Maung Aye Lwin and sprinter Maung Kyaw Htoo Aung, both of Yangon University, to attend the 18th Universidade World University Summer Games in Fukuoka, Aug. 23-Sept. 3. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 22: A Myanmar Physical Culture Team led by President U Kyaw Win of the Myanmar Physical Culture and Beauty Federation left to attend the Special Congress of Asian Physical Culture Federation in Chonkin, Sichun Province, China. Vice-President U Myo Thein will attend umpire meetings of the Federation, and Tun Tun Aung will participate in the 10th Junior Mr. Asia Contest. (NLM 8/23) // Aug. 28: Tun Tun Aung (Navy) won second prize in the under-70 kilo event of the 10th Junior Mr. Asia Contest. The team returned. (NLM 8/ 29) Aug. 23: Twelve Myanmar cyclists led by U Mya Thet left for Malaysia to participate in the Perlis Open Asian Cycling Tournament. Assistance to the team is being provided by the Napos Loins (M) Sdn Bhd Co. of Malaysia. (NLM 8/24) Aug. 23: Myanmar won two gold and five silver medals in the Malaysian Invitational Track and Field Meet, held Aug. 18-20. Pa Pa won gold in 3,000 metres and silver in 10,000 metres. Aye Aye Nwe won gold in discus and silver in shot put. Nyo Nyo Win won silver in 1,500 metre, and Maung Maung won silver in 5,000 and 10,000 metre events. The team returned home Aug. 22. (NLM 8/24) Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. Aug. 30: The attempt by the Ozaki family of Japan to scale Mount Khakaborazi was abandoned Aug. 18 at the 15,675 foot level because of "adverse weather and slides." (NLM 8/31) Holes-in-one Aug. 1: U Aung Ngwe (Taunggyi) scored an ace July 30 at the 150 yard Hole No. 12 of the City Golf Course. U Kan Htoo (Soe San Electronics) scored an ace the same day and place on the 133 yard Hole No. 16. (NLM 8/2) CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles Aug. 5: Colour Rain, by Sein Myo Myint. [Exhibit of 137 paintings by 15 artists, at Bogyoke Aung San Market. Critical review of some of the paintings.] Aug. 17: Myanmar Women's Education and Health: Investing for the Future, by Dr. Win May. "To summarize, Myanmar women have had access to education and training since time immemorial.... Myanmar women and men have equal access to health services." Various statistics.] Aug. 19: The Role of Myanmar Women in Economic Activities, presented by Professor of Management Studies Institute of Economics. [General study of economic role of women in rural areas, bazaars, office and professional activities, entrepreneurial activities, etc.] Aug. 21: The Rights Vested in Myanmar Women, by Dr. May May Yi. [How Myanmar women have full equal rights with men, as well as special protection to protect their modesty and health.] Publications Aug. 9: Advertisement. The Pagodas and Monuments of Pagan (Vol. I), published by the Ministry of Information, available at Sarpay Beikman Bookshop. Price: Hard Cover US$ 12.00; Paperback US$ 10.00. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 14: A book of marching songs, with music, of different eras, from pre-independence nationalists to the Tatmadaw, will be sold beginning Aug. 15 at the Myawady Bookshop.] Aug. 17: "Memoirs of Ramayana," a history of Ramayana Hall at Yangon University is to be published, and graduates are requested to send photos, manuscripts and other items, by Sept. 15. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 17: A second printing of Collected Works of P Monin (Vol. I) has been published by Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, with introductions by MWJA Chairman U Myo Thant (Maung Hsu Shin) and U Soe Nyunt (Htila Sitthu). Thuta Sweson Publishing House at 9 Yegyaw Street, Pazundaung, is distributing the book. MWJA has also brought out collected works of Zawgyi and Maha Swe. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 21: The News and Periodicals Enterprise launched a weekly International News Journal, in honor of the anniversary of SLORC. The Myanmar tabloid is "packed with coverage of current events, global business, finance and UN agencies, as well as interesting angles of foreign films, sports and the neighbours." It is printed in four colours every Monday, with 16 pages, by Welfare Society of Kyemon daily, and will cost K 12. (NLM 8/22) Aug. 24: Trade Directory of Myanmar (1994-95), issued by the Ministry of Trade, is now on sale for K 250. (NLM 8/25) Aug. 24: Living Colour Advertisement and Market Guide (Vol., No. 3, Aug. 1995) has been published by Market Information Network and distributed by Today Media Group. Text of cover is in Myanmar. (NLM photo 8/25) Aug. 24: Destiny of the Nation, by Nawrahta. On sale starting Aug. 22, 1995, at K 30 per copy. [text was published in Burma Press Summary, June and July issues] (NLM 8/25) Aug. 29: Bago Hall Magazine will be published in honour of the Yangon University Golden Jubilee, and persons wishing to contribute materials are asked to send it in by Sept. 30, in English or Myanmar. (NLM 8/30) Aug. 31: Selected Monthly Economic Indicators (May-June 1995), published by the Central Statistical Organization, is available at the Sarpay Beikman Bookshop. (NLM 8/ 31) Universities and Institutes Aug. 9: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt addressed the opening of the Resource Centre "which will assist Master of Business Administration (MBA) programme of the Administration Department, Institute of Economics. Reviewing privatization, he said that the private sector now comprises 78% of GDP and services. It needs trained managers, which is why the Government has established the MBA programme. He noted that 700 candidates were seeking admission to the first MBA course; 500 took the entrance exam and 50 were selected. He hoped the annual intake can rise to 200 as the economy develops. Trainees will pay K 5,000 for three months and K 20,000 for the two-year course. "The fees seem to be much but, he said, costs are high to make the course one of international standard." He suggested people raise funds from State and private businesses, etc. He also called for donations to the programme, citing 20 computers given by Ayeyawady Advisers Ltd. He cautioned that the programme is under the Ministry of Education, "and it should not be used or dictated by any private organization." (NLM 8/10) Yangon University Diamond Jubilee Through the month, there were constant stories about gatherings of alumni, student homage to teachers and old graduates, and other activities in preparation for the upcoming Diamond Jubilee (1920-1995) of Yangon University. Aug. 26: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt attended "ceremonies held on Yangon University (Main) ushering in the Diamond Jubilee." (NLM 8/27) Religion Aug. 10: The Oral Examinations on Abhidhamma in Pali concluded in Yangon. 335 members of the Sangha, 124 nuns, and 45 laypersons sat for the examination, held from Aug. 5-10. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 17: Buddha images and other items were donated at Soonsarkyaung, Kaba Aye, Yangon, for the Australian Buddhist Hermitage. Australian monk Bikkhu Nagajina (Mr. Gary Law) discussed the Hermitage, and said he had had a marvellous spiritual awakening 20 years ago. "The Australian monk said Myanmar people can develop a meditation centre in Australia at a beautiful forest place at Stanley near Beechworth." The 47-acre site known as Vanna Vara Vihara (Beautiful Forest Place) is situated at 3,000 feet altitude, and the local government has approved the meditation centre project. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 20: A second ceremony was held to hand over cash donations totalling K 4.6 million for building Buddha Gaya Dhamma Beikmandaw on the precincts of the Myanmar Monastery at Buddha Gaya, India. (NLM 8/21) Aug. 24: Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt, speaking to Sayadaws, "pointed out some bogus missionaries who take advantage of people who are weak in their faith in Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha and who would like to become rich through short cuts. They are trying to tarnish the Buddhist teachings, he said...." (NLM 8/25) English-language School July 31: Concord International Skills Ltd. opened the Skills-Integrated Teaching Academy (SILTA) on Botahtaung Pagoda Road in Yangon. Speakers included Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi, Concord Chairman Ret. Col. Win Maung, and SILTA Consultant Retired English Professor U Thiha. The School will offer three-month courses in Basic English (K 10,000), Practical English (K 10,000), Advanced English (K 9,000), and English for Children (K 9,000). (NLM 8/1) Motion Pictures Diamond Jubilee There have been numerous stories heralding the upcoming Diamond Jubilee of the movies in Myanmar. Aug. 18: Ceremonies ushering in the Myanma Motion Pictures Diamond Jubilee began in Mandalay at the Win Light Cinema, opened by 78-year old vocalist and actress Wunna Kyawhtin Daw May Shin. Chairman of the Jubilee Deputy Minister for Information U Thein Sein and others participated. (NLM 8/19) Aug. 26: A paper-reading session sponsored by the Myanma Motion Pictures Diamond Jubilee Research Committee began at the Padonna Theatre in Sangyoung Township. Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw and other attended. Five papers were presented. (NLM 8/27) // Aug. 27: the paper reading continued, with an additional five papers. (NLM 8/28) High School Exams Aug. 20: The Board of Examinations announced the pass rates of the Basic Education High School examination (old and new curricula), held in March 1995. 388,869 candidates (165,458 old curriculum; 223,411 new curriculum) took the exam at 834 domestic and 21 foreign sites. Pass rates were: New Curriculum: A-list 24.77%; B-list 10.82%. Old Curriculum: A-list 20.98%; B-list 16.27%. In Yangon Division, 100,692 candidates took the exam. Pass rates were: New Curriculum: A-list 21.26%; B-list 7.97%. Old Curriculum: A-list 19.50%; B-list 15.36%. Results have been posted at exam centres. (NLM 8/21) Cultural Courses Aug. 21: The Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture, beginning Sept. 7, will conduct courses on Myanmar song, dance, and instrumental music in Yangon and Mandalay. "The aim of the courses is to deter alien culture and preserve Myanmar traditional courses. The course will be conducted in accord with the four social objectives....[see Slogans, above]. Trainees will be categorized into basic, high school and higher education levels after testing their abilities. Veteran artistes and musicians will provide systematic training. There will be three courses--in the morning, afternoon and evening--daily." Registration is with the Fine Arts Department. (NLM 8/22) Educational Subsidies Aug. 25: Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw attended a ceremony to present stipends to children of Myanmar Radio & TV staff who are pupils in basic or higher education schools. He said it was one of the welfare services for service personnel. A total of K 757,600 will be presented, at the rate of K 1,000 for primary students, K 1,100 for middle school students, K 1,200 for high school students, K 1,300 for higher education students, and K 1,500 plus K 200 per distinction for those who pass the BEHS examination. (NLM 8/26) MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements Aug. 6,13,20,27: Text of "Our Three Main National Causes. List of Special Projects (6 bridges and 12 dams). Further List of Special Projects (11). [They frequently appeared, also, on weekdays, in connection with economic articles hailing the upcoming anniversary of the SLORC] For texts see January issue. -- Seven National Convention Slogans. For texts see April issue. Aug. 6,13,20,27: Towards a modern nation through all-round development, by Warazein. [Cont. Endeavours of the Ministry of Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs. (ii) Continued listing of border development projects. Kengtung (East) region: Roads: 327 miles earth, 240 laterite, 7 miles tarred, built; 917 maintained. Bridges: 7 big and 37 smaller built. Education: 40 primary schools. Health: 6 hospitals and 13 dispensaries. Power: 29 generators installed, and 4 hydro-electric plants constructed. Agriculture and livestock: 4 agriculture offices, 10 agricultural stations, 20 irrigation works, 1 tractor station, 4 forest reserves, 9 saw-mills, 5 forest nurseries, 4 livestock breeding farms, 4 fish hatcheries, 44 fishponds built, and 2 stud mules provided. Communications: 4 post offices, 7 radio telephones, 8 telephone exchanges, 8 telegraph offices, 2 satellite earth stations, 3 TV relay stations, 4 communications buildings. Minerals: 507 sapphires. 229 development personnel appointed at double pay. Mawpha region: Roads: 56 miles earth built, 297 miles maintained. Bridges: 2 smaller. Education: 15 primary schools. Health: 2 hospitals, 8 dispensaries. Power: 10 generators installed. Agriculture and livestock: 1 ag. office, 2 ag. stations, 1 irrigation work, 1 fish hatchery, 2 fish ponds. Communications: 1 post office, 1 telegraph office. Minerals: 61,690 carats of rubies. 155 development workers appointed at double pay. Pa-O region: Roads: 26 miles laterite, 1 mile tarred built, 10 miles maintained. Bridges: 1 big, 16 smaller. Education: 24 primary, 7 middle schools. Health: 1 hospital. Power: 8 generators installed. Agriculture and livestock: 11 ag. stations, 2 tractor stations, 2 livestock breeding farms built, and 2 stud mules established. Communications: 1 post office, 3 radio telephones, 3 telephone exchanges, 3 telegraph offices. 181 development staff appointed. Kayah region: Roads: 37 miles earth, 8 miles laterite, 2 miles tarred built, 262 miles maintained. Bridges: 1 big and 9 smaller. Education: 3 primary schools. Health: 4 dispensaries. Power: 10 generators installed. Agriculture and livestock: 1 ag. station, 6 irrigation works, 1 tractor station. Communications: 2 post offices, 1 telephone exchange, 3 telegraph offices. 99 development staff appointed. Rakhine region: Roads: 186 miles earth, 15 miles laterite built. Bridges: 126 small. Education: 12 primary, 1 high school. Health: 2 hospitals, 3 dispensaries. Power: 4 generators installed. Agriculture and livestock: 2 ag. offices, 9 ag. stations, 3 livestock breeding farms. Communications: 2 post offices, 2 telegraph offices. 81 development staff appointed. Chin region: Roads: 2 miles earth, 1 mile laterite built, 137 miles maintained. Bridges: 6 small. Education: 1 middle school. Health: 1 dispensary. Communications: 1 post office, 3 radio telephones, 22 miles of telephone trunk lines, 2 telegraph offices, 1 satellite ground station, 1 TV relay station. 4 employees appointed. Naga region: Roads: 202 miles earth, 11 miles laterite built, 1,351 miles maintained. Bridges: 9 small. Education: 1 middle school. Power: 5 generators installed. Agriculture: 1 ag. office. Communications: 4 radio telephones, 2 telephone exchanges, 2 telegraph offices, 1 satellite ground station, 2 TV relay stations, 1 TV antenna (dish). 152 development personnel appointed. Kabaw Valley region: Roads: 58 miles earth, 35 miles laterite, 2 miles tarred built. Bridge: 1 big and 40 smaller. Education: 3 primary, 1 middle, 1 high school. Health: 1 hospital, 2 dispensaries. Power: 3 generators installed. Agriculture and livestock: 1 ag. office, four ag. stations, 1 tractor station, 1 forest reserve, 1 livestock breeding farm. Communications: 1 post office, 3 radio telephones, 2 telephone exchanges, 16 miles telephone trunk lines, 2 telegraph offices, 1 satellite earth station. 349 development personnel staff appointed. Kayin State: Power: 1 generator. 96 development staff appointed. Tanintharyi region: Health: 1 hospital. Communications: 1 telephone exchange, 1 TV relay station. As of March 31, 1994, K 220 million spent on border region national races development has been incurred. The Government plans to spend up to K 2,593 million by Mar. 30, 1995. [Achievements of Yangon City Development Committee. (i) Extension, widening, and paving of roads and streets. (ii) Roads. Bricks, etc. Various construction projects. (iii) other projects.] Aug. 6: Firewood substitutes attracting mass interest, by Sint Soe (Science & Technology). [Cont. (3) Task force to educate the masses on firewood substitutes.] -- The scenic and idyllic Bago Yoma Crossing, by Sagawa. [A site for eco-tourism, as of the Pyu site at Sri Khestra.] Aug. 13: Growing coffee to get rich, by Pyin-Oo-Lwin Chit Swe. [Visit to coffee plantations. Coffee can earn big profits. "Coffee strengthens man's muscles and brain. Researchers assert that coffee drinkers are more brainy.... Discovery of coffee is said to have increased the working capacity of man from 12 hours to 24 hours a day."] -- The first ever Pain Treatment Centre for Myanmar, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [New centre for treating chronic pain, sponsored by the USPA Pain Institute of France and opened on Nov. 24, 1994. Similar centres are in Vietnam, China, Czech Republic, and Lebanon. "The Centre provides treatment free of charge and is open to one and all with the compliments of the State."] -- Breeding fresh water prawns as a promising industry, by Soe Tint (Twantay). Prawn exports earn Myanmar US$ 51 million per year, compared with US$ 2,746 for Thailand. Best sea-water prawns fetch US$ 24,000 per ton. Demand is increasing. Opportunities for fresh-water prawn growing in Myanmar. A viss of fresh-water prawn selling for K 500-1,000 costs some K 350-400 to produce.] -- Myanma Teak forests, by Sagawa. [Visit to Bago Yoma. How teak is cultivated. Best areas for growth.] -- Firewood Substitute Factory No. 1, by Htay Kyi. [Established by the Defence Ministry Directorate of Resettlement in Pakokku in April 1995, and makes 14,400 briquettes per day, using Chinese equipment.] Aug. 20: To provide Myanmar fruits for the world to taste, by Shwe Nagar Tin Win. [Information on fruit potential from Professor P.D. Grover of the Technical Institute of New Delhi, India, and from Dr. Graeme R. Quick, former Chief Engineer of International Rice Research Institute. Cited are mangoes, bananas, pumelows, guavas, coconuts, limes, oranges, lemons, lychees, prunes, butter fruits, pineapples, doorians, mangosteens, and grapes.] -- Plastic good gaining popularity, by Thura Nyunt. [UPVC pipes.] -- Fresh water prawn breeding is a promising industry, by Soe Tint (Twantay). [Factors in production.] -- A trip to Hokar Parnauk in border area, by Taungdwin Bo Thein. [Progress in Mongkhat Township, once a BCP "black area".] -- Htet Arkar Kyaw Co-operative Society Syndicate Ltd., by Tin Ohn Maung. [Varied activities of a coop in Toungoo District.] Aug. 27: Wood-based industries, by Myint Thura. [Recent developments in timber industry.] -- Myanma Mayflower Bank introduces hi-tech financial service, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [Automatic Teller Machines -- ATMs.] -- Monywa begins using agri-waste briquettes, by Swe Thant Ko. [As part of the program to replace the burning of firewood.] -- Sri Khestra: a tourist site, by Sagawa. [Center of Pyu civilization, near Pyay.] -- Myanmar Teak, by Kyaw Tint. [History of timber policies since pre-colonial times. Myanmars practiced conservation, British did not, and by 1857 teak forests of British Tanintharyi were devastated.] Crime Aug. 1: Two burglars were arrested for stealing Haj funds amounting to K 200,000 from a safe in the office of the Director-General of Religious Affairs on July 26. Most of the money was recovered. (NLM 8/ 2) Aug. 8: A passport forger was arrested in Yangon. He had charged K 10,000 for altering a passport photograph. (NLM 8/9) Aug. 9: Four ivory poachers were sentenced to 15 years hard labor (and another to 10 years) for cutting of the tusks, worth K 60,000, of Elephant No. 2265 at the Talonchon Elephant Station of the Mindon Timber Extraction region. The theft was reported June 9, 1994. (NLM 8/10) Aug. 11: The Ministry of Livestock Breeding and Fisheries "terminated operation of fishing vessels of Narong Fisheries Co. of Thailand on Myanmar waters for dishonest acts, effective 3 August, 1995." The company, in a joint venture with the Fisheries Department, caught fish and prawns illegally, smuggled fish "to the other country", bullied and overworked Myanmar crewmen. In revenge, the company kidnapped 10 of 28 Myanmar crewmen in waters "of the other country" and took them away. Of the other 18, 5 were tied up and thrown overboard, and 13 beaten with iron rods and had to jump overboard to escape. Another company boat seized a Myanmar, tied him up for 12 hours, and threw him overboard. Two drowned bodies have been recovered, their hands tied behind their backs. 23 of the 28 crewmen are still missing, and three escaped by swimming. (NLM 8/12) Anti-Narcotics Activities Aug. 3: 5.3 kilos of raw opium were seized July 12 near Namhkam. 0.01 kilo of marijuana and 0.003 kilo of heavy opium solution were seized July 18 in Yangon. (NLM 8/4) Aug. 4: 0.2 kilo of heroin, hidden in a vacuum flask, was seized July 23 in Lashio. (NLM 8/5) Aug. 6: 2.1 kilos of raw opium was seized July 23 between Loikaw and Meiktila. 0.1 kilo of heroin was seized July 28 in Kyuhkok (Pangsai) Township. (NLM 8/7) Aug. 8: 1.5 kilos of heroin were seized in Katha on July 31. 1.2 kilos of heroin were seized July 31 in Kyukok (Pansai). (NLM 8/ 9) Aug. 10: 0.4 kilo of heroin was seized Aug. 3 in Lashio. (NLM 8/11) Aug. 11: During July 1995, the Tatmadaw seized 5.7 kilos of opium. 0.3 kilo of heroin, 1.6 kilos of marijuana, and 75.6 litres of Phensedyl. The police seized 26.7 kilos of opium (45 cases), 7.2 kilos of heroin (133 cases), 26.6 kilos of marijuana (37 cases), 299.9 litres of Phensedyl (25 cases), 0.003 kilo of heavy opium solution, 0.05 kilo of liquid opium, 0.05 kilo of dried opium (1 case), 1.6 litres of Tixylix (1 case), 3.5 litres of Comethazine, and 0.002 kilo of opium powder (1 case). There were 160 cases of failure to register for treatment and 13 other drug-related cases. Police took action against 574 persons in 417 drug-related cases. Police and Tatmadaw, working together, seized 10.5 kilos of opium (4 cases), 3.3 kilos of heroin (10 cases), and 180.5 litres of Phensedyl (11 cases). (NLM 8/12) Aug. 23: Opium eradication in Wa region of Shan State was discussed by the Secretariat of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races, and officials of UNDCP. (NLM 8/24) Aug. 26: 0.2 kilo of heroin was seized July 23 in Lashio, and 0.7 kilo on July 31. 50 bottles of Phensedyl were seized in Lashio on Aug. 5. (NLM 8/27) Articles on Narcotics Aug. 1: Kachin region narcotic control programme, by Thet Aung. [Cont. (3) Development works: Kachin Special Region No. 1: Roads: earth 70 miles, laterite 30, tarred 1, maintenance of old roads 182 miles. Bridges: big 2, small 54. Education: primary 26, middle 2. Health: hospitals 4, dispensaries 12. Electricity: 4 areas. Agriculture: stations 4, game sanctuaries 1. Animal husbandry: cattle farms 2, mule distribution centres 2. Communications: post offices 2, w/t stations 2, telephone exchanges 1, telegraph offices 2, communications offices 2. Kachin Special Region No. 2: Roads: laterite 114 miles, tarred 8, maintenance 288 miles. Bridges: small 100. Education: primary 2. Health: dispensaries 1. Electricity: 4 areas. Animal husbandry: livestock breeding farms 1. Communications: w/t stations 5, telephone exchanges 3, telephone lines 70 miles, satellite earth stations 2, communications offices 2. Information: TV relay stations 3.] Aug. 14-16: Narcotic Eradication & Regional Development Project in Kengtung East Region of Eastern Shan State, by Thet Aung. [(1) Shan State East Special Region No. 4 was formerly under BCP rule. Now, in 1993, a 3-year plan to eliminate narcotics in the Silu area was begun by Myanmar-China-UNDCP, with foreign and local experts seeking to establish substitute crops for former poppy cultivators. On Aug. 9, national leader U Sai Lin reported [see above, under POLITICAL: National Races] that in 1989 there were 2,716 acres of poppy fields cultivated by 262 villages, 2,153 opium smokers, and annual production of 8,968 kilos of opium, capable of being made into 600 kilos of heroin. In 1991, a six-year plan to eradicate poppy and opium was begun. [(2) In Silu area, poppy cultivation in fields will end in 1995, and in the hills in 1996. The whole region will end poppy production by 1997. "Paddy, melons, sugarcane, rubber and cardamom are being grown in place of poppy. However, incomes from these cultivations are not as good as incomes from poppy cultivation. They are now trying to improve this situation." The Government is providing 2,000 bags of rice per month and much development money. The UNDCP has opened a branch office in Silu, but cannot do anything in Nanpan and Mongma. "And no help has yet been received from other foreign drug control agencies." ["Regional national leaders complained that...foreign media was continuing to attack and slander them. Under Ba-ka-pa {BCP} control, the name of the Group leader U Sai Linn was Li Mishin and the name of the Group Secretary U Kyi Myint was Kyan Simyint. Some foreign media were still saying that Li Mishin and Kyan Simyint were doing opium business in partnership with the State Law and Order Restoration Council. They said they resented such accusations and were unhappy about them." The Bangkok Post of July 25, 1995, accused the two of controlling much of the opium and heroin traffick, and having a 4,000 man army and refineries producing 2,000 kilos of heroin, shipped through China, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. At the same time Khun Sa's share of the market is decreasing, the article alleged. The Regional leaders invite foreigners to come and see for themselves. [(3) Government expenditures in the area total K 297 million. Foreign media says the Kengtung East Region produced over 2,000 kilos of heroin a year. Where do they get this figure?] Aug. 22: Drug-related cases vs value of confession of co-accused, by KMO. [Conviction on basis of a confession upheld.] Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are obituaries in Burmese as well.] Aug. 3: Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sannobhasa (Agga Maha Pandita), vassa 51, Patron of Thathana Nayu Padetha Kyaung of Tegyi Village, Seik Phyu Township, Magway Division, died there, aged 72. [article] (NLM 8/10) Aug. 7: U Hla Moe, rtd. Assistant Director, Internal Revenue Department, husband of Daw Aye Myaing, died in Yangon, aged 80. (NLM 8/10) Aug. 12: Mrs. Cecilia Bernard, relict of Sgt. Aloysius Bernard (CBD-Army), died in Yangon, aged 70. [Christian] (NLM 8/13) Aug. 13: Daw Ho (Dawei), relict of U Yu Kyi, mother of...Edwin K W Tan (USA)-Grace Tan, died in Yangon, aged 72227. (NLM 8/14) Aug. 16: U Thein Aung Cho (a) U Aung Aung Cho (Alan Cho), husband of Daw Nwe Nwe Shin (Shirley), died in Seattle, Washington, USA. [Christian] (NLM 8/20) Aug. 17: U Soe Myint, BA, BL, DMA, Monyo, Mawgun Grade II, Naingant-gon-yee Grade II, Secy-Gen Retd DSI, BEDC, Central Trade, husband of Daw Khin Khin Sein, died in Yangon, aged 82. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 18: Yacoob Zakaria Jamal, husband of the late Khatija Essak Tarmohamed, died in Yangon, aged 78. [Muslim] (NLM 8/19) Aug. 18: Wunna Kyawhtin, Thiripyanchi U Khin Maung Lwin, Retired Secretary, Ministry of Public Works and Housing, husband of the late Daw Ma Ma Gyi, died in Yangon, aged 91. (NLM 8/19) Aug. 21: Antonio Theresa (a) Daw Kalai Ma, widow of Mr. F.D.A. Swamy, died in Yangon, aged 89. [Christian] (NLM 8/22) Aug. 21: A. Latif Parvaiz (a) U Khin Mg (Ever Lite Electric), husband of Gulzaar Sultana, died in Yangon, aged 63. [Muslim] (NLM 8/22) Aug. 22: Daw Khin San Win, Pathein, donor of Paya, Kyaung, wife of U Taung Saing (a) U Kyaw Sein, died in Pathein, aged 54. (NLM 8/26) Aug. 25: Daw Tin Nyunt (Pansy Than), Manager, Trade Corporation 10 (retd.), wife of U Than, died in Yangon, aged 84. [Christian] (NLM 8/26) Aug. 25: Zay Ya Kyaw Htin (Dr. S.H. Chanea), Major BAMC (Retd) BC/3339, Assistant Director CMSD (Retd), Supply Officer UNICEF (Retd), Mawgun Award Grade III, husband of Daw Khin Than Than, died in Yangon, aged 77. [Muslim] (NLM 8/28) Earthquakes July 31: An earthquake of moderate intensity (5.0 Richter) was recorded at 02:16:24 local time, with epicenter 344 miles NE of Yangon. (NLM 8/1) Aug. 16: An earthquake of strong intensity (7.1 Richter) was recorded at 17:07:56 local time, with epicenter 3,785 miles SE of Yangon. (NLM 8/18) Aug. 23: An earthquake of strong intensity (7.4 Richter) was recorded at 13:42:56 local time, with epicenter 2,832 miles E of Yangon. (NLM 8/24) Building Collapses Aug. 22: An old two-storey building at 162 47th Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon, collapsed, killing four persons and injuring five. Workers had been digging foundations for a new building in the neighbouring lot. (NLM 8/23) Limited Parking Aug. 24: Yangon City Development Committee issued "an order designating the limited parking zone downtown effective 1 September 1995...." It is bounded by Bo Aung Kyaw Street (west), Bogyoke Aung San Street (north), and Strand Road (south). Parking is limited from 8 am to 6 pm. "The order also states that motorists, except those exempted, must pay for parking. Action will be taken against anyone for failure to pay. Violators will be fined." (NLM 8/25) Fishermen Returned Aug. 29: 161 Myanmar fishermen who drifted to "a neighbouring country" were brought back by air from January-July 1995. Over 300 who got to coastal areas of "the neighbouring country" were brought back by air, sea, and road. 71 of the remaining 151 drifters returned today by air from Port Blair in India; the remaining 87 will return by air Aug. 31. A temporary holding camp is set up in South Okkalapa, pending "their early return to their homes." (NLM 8/30) ----- SUBSCRIPTIONS & RENEWALS ATT: Burma Press Summary Center for East Asian & Pacific Studies University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign 230 International Studies Building 910 South Fifth Street Champaign, IL 61820 Tel: (217) 333-7273. Fax: (217) 244-5729 Annual Subscriptions: Individuals - US$50.00 Libraries & other Institutions - US$60.00 Add Postal surcharge for air delivery to: Canada - US$18.00 Europe - US$37.00 Asia - US$47.00 [additional charge for US$ check drawn on a foreign bank - $5.00] NOTE: Checks should be payable to: University of Illinois, with "Burma Press Summary" annotated on check. Correspondence concerning subscriptions, missing issues, etc., should be sent to the Center for East Asian and Pacific Studies in Champaign, Illinois EDITORIAL CORRESPONDENCE Editorial correspondence, and requests for full texts of articles, should be sent to: Hugh C. MacDougall 32 Elm Street Cooperstown, NY 13326 Burma Press Summary, No. 102, Aug. 1995