96-01 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 X, No. 1, January 1996 Table of Contents POLITICAL Slogans 2 Political Articles 2 Returnees from Bangladesh 7 National Races 8 USDA 8 Defector from Japan 8 Prisoners Released 8 NATIONAL CONVENTION Plenary Session 8 Rallies for Convention 9 DIPLOMATIC Diplomatic Calls 9 New Ambassadors to Myanmar 9 New Myanmar Ambassadors 10 INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Projects 10 Regional and Border Cooperation 11 Social and Economic Cooperation 11 Forestry Commission Session 11 Donations from Abroad 11 FOREIGN VISITORS International Agency Visitors 12 Cultural Visitors 12 Medical Visitors 12 Business Visitors 12 Religious Visitors 14 Media Visitors 14 Chinese Provincial Officials 15 Thai Officials 15 Vietnam Goodwill Delegation 15 Singapore Ministerial Delegation 15 Cambodian Prime Minister 16 Sri Lanka Foreign Minister 17 MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations 17 Delegations to Meetings & Events 17 Gen. Than Shwe To China 18 Sino-Myanmar Joint Communique 19 Cultural Festival in Singapore 20 MILITARY Surrenders by Armed Group Members 20 Khun Sa and Army Surrender 21 Khin Nyunt Statement 22 GOVERNMENT Independence Day Message 23 Independence Day Awards 25 Foreign Messages of Felicitation 26 Independence Day Ceremonies 26 Development Affairs Department 26 Union Day 27 Narcotics Regulations 27 New Deputy Minister & Vice-Mayor 27 ECONOMIC Economic Articles 27 Trade Fairs 28 Project Inaugurations 29 Business Openings 29 Advertisements 30 Foreign Investment Projects 31 Business Courses 31 Banking 31 Insurance 31 Tourism 32 Economic Organizations 32 Jade Sale 32 Agriculture 32 Company Blacklisted 32 Highway Projects Put to Bid 32 Gas Power Station 33 Inflation 33 Rainfall in Yangon 33 HEALTH Health Articles 33 Dental Health 34 Polio Immunization 34 Myanmar Medical Association 34 SPORTS Sports Articles 34 Myanmar Teams and Officials 34 Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. 35 Hole-in-One 35 CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles 35 Religion 36 Publications 37 Computers 37 Universities and Institutes 37 Music Asiayone 38 MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements 38 Crime 40 Anti-Narcotics Activities 40 Marriage 41 Obituaries 41 Beauty Contest Questions 42 NLM Advertising Rates 42 ------------------------------------------- HIGHLIGHTS -- Daw Aung San Suu Kyi is a nice but duped "little girl" who because of her foreign education could not acquire Myanma's spirit; failure of dialogue after her release from house arrest is her own fault; she is obsessed with lust and superstition. POLITICAL: Political Articles: Myanma's Spirit; Oh! it's like this; The matter on terms Myanmar and Bamar; Upadanapa‡‡aya.] -- SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe pays an official friendly visit to China. [MYANMAR DELEGATIONS] -- Khun Sa and his Mong Tai Army (MTA) return to the legal fold. [MILITARY] ------------------------------------------- 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 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 Pali religious slogan at the top of each front page: Jan. 1: Santutthi ca, contentment; this is the way to auspiciousness. Jan. 2: Katannuta, gratitude towards the grateful; this is the way to auspiciousness. Jan. 3-31: Kalena dhammasavanam, the timely discussion of the doctrines; 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 Jan. 1: What is the National League for Democracy Up To?, by Michael Dobbs-Higginson [article reprinted from The Indonesian Observer of Dec. 22-23, 1995, and in The Straits Times of Singapore on Dec. 22, 1995]. [Use of "Burma" instead of "Myanmar" in the International Herald Tribune on Nov. 29-30 was "an unnecessary and provocative position to take, if not an insult to the country." The word "Myanmar" is much older than "Bamar," which only appears during the Konbaung dynasty. ["Therefore, is it because Aung San Suu Kyi refuses to call the country, Myanmar and sticks stubbornly to the name Burma and in turn that the international media, with its biased and obsessive focus on her and her activities, slavishly follows suit?.... Maybe it is because Suu Kyi, having lived abroad for 28 years -- most of her adult life -- doesn't really feel in her heart that she is a true, Union of Myanmar national. Alternatively, maybe it is both because the original Bamar (changed by the British to Burma) people came from the Yangon to Mandalay region and because Suu Kyi and her family are originally from the town of Natmauk (between Yangon and Mandalay), she feels that she is a Burmese person rather than a Myanmar person. If this is correct, or even partly correct, how can she claim that she represents the country of Myanmar.... Her continuing persistence in referring to the country as Burma (or Bamar) must cause other ethnic groups to question her true agenda for the future of the country as a whole...." [The two IHT articles show inaccuracy and bias about National League for Democracy withdrawal from the National Convention. The NLD actually attended the Nov. 28 session, "knowing full well they would walk out using any pretext at all and thus get maximum international, positive press coverage." The charge that the government selected the National Convention delegates "is a gross and irresponsible distortion of the facts." Each group was allocated a number of delegates, and then allowed to choose them for itself. The NLD doesn't seem to realize that its "game-playing" could lead to more "sensationalist and hostile reporting," adversely affecting foreign aid and investment. An example was Philip Shenon's charge (Nov. 30) of "patently untrue" rumours that a wing of Insein Prison was being cleared out to hold NLD followers. [In fact, under SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, Myanmar has made "remarkable strides since late 1992 in opening up the Myanmar economy to serious foreign investment." The foreign investment community is becoming increasingly dissatisfied with conditions in China and Vietnam, and finds Myanmar a "much more attractive investment alternative." If NLD irresponsibility discourages such investment, it is the Myanmar people who will pay the price. [It is therefore time for ordinary Myanmars to take "a more active interest in the other dark and selfish side of NLD activities." Many might prefer to support the current government. "I, for one, am more than nervous about the thought of a faction ridden, naive and totally inexperienced NLD party trying to govern Myanmar at this stage of its development." ["(The writer is the author of Asia Pacific: Its role in the new world disorder. He is a former Chairman of Merrill Lynch, Asia Pacific Region.)"] Jan. 2: To protect our true inheritance, by Pa Pa Waddy. [In colonial teams people thought that all teak belonged to the Bombay Burma Company, all rice to an Indian Chattyar, and all petroleum to the Burma Oil Company. But then nationalists began to proclaim that "'we should try to get them back from the white-faced expansionists.'" We must protect our Independence.] Jan. 3: Shaping one's own destiny, by Pe Than. [Achievements of the State.] Jan. 3: For perpetuity of independence and emergence of a new State Constitution, by Myat Min Hlaing. ["All efforts made to destroy the essence of the National Convention are efforts aimed at undermining national independence and retarding the development and progress of the people ...."] Jan. 4: Wisdom shall be our guide, by Min Kyaw Min. [Remember ills of colonialism.] Jan. 4: Tasks to be performed by all national people, by Soe Naung. [Patriotic duties.] Jan. 4: For national unity and solidarity, by Maung Dawna. [Patriotism.] Jan. 5-10: Myanma's Spirit, by Than Hlyet. [Dialogue between Than Hlyet, a writer who has taken up "political and world affairs," and U Myo Chit, a pre-independence nationalist who has retreated into religious activities. (1) Necessity of getting involved in promoting national patriotism. (2) Memories of pre-independence patriotism and of cowardly opportunists. (3) Foreign intervention by missionaries (see Helen Trager, Burma Through Alien Eyes), Dr. Seagraves, Robert Morse, etc. CIA and KMT, fraudulent American economic aid, etc. [(4) There are "two main persons. They are pure Myanmar nationals and pure Buddhists, but they don't seem to know Myanmar's spirit.... This...must be due to being under the spell of foreign influence.... I had thought them to be very dignified persons.... When they entered the political arena they promised that they would take the responsibility to serve the country and the people well. But now they have no respect for their age and dignity and are using very degrading words, flinging accusations and useing fault-finding words.... They...spoke only about separating, disuniting, disunity, opposing and used inciting and agitative words.... They began blasting their mouths off like the firing of machine-guns and the departments for issuing forth bad smells began fanning the fire.... {Perhaps} one will...repent that it is not proper to plot the disintegration of the Tatmadaw which is one's benefactor and not a good thing to destroy it.... I am...greatly astonished of these two persons who are of pure Myanmar blood and had been patriotic soldiers of Myanma Tatmadaw have forgotten Myanma's spirit...." [(5) "Today, I want to hear about the little girl which you haven't told me. That girl has been active together with these persons. They have a chairman and a general secretary, but I don't know who is giving the orders and who is obeying them. Yes! That little girl also doesn't know Myanma's spirit well. It is quite obvious as there is ample proof of their behaviour that which [sic] shows that she doesn't know Myanma's spirit at all. ["She is to be greatly pitied, While she was spending her life engrossed in literature in the vicinity of Oxford University together with her spouse and children she to return [sic] temporarily to her native land as her mother was suffering from ill health.... Her case was not the one in which running away from danger she was saved unexpectedly by a saviour, but under a well-planned arrangement of pushing her up the political platform.... Well she was thrown into this dirty political swamp. ["She who was enjoying life in a society of literati...did not know the real situation and misled by those who surrounded her, she forgot all about the happy life of being occupied with literature. She was made to forget this by a wizard who conjured up many tricks. When she got caught in the plot, she began [sic] impervious to foul smell and sight of the party and politics, as she was made to think of herself as one of the leaders of the world and saviour of the Myanmars. ["The behavior and actions of the Ngapwagyis were very neat and tactful, but his hands could be detected by everyone who looked.... They instigated the people who went out of control and the girl began to make speeches. The BBC which spreads malicious rumours made a broadcast and lied that Mogok was captured by the communists. When the US fleet suddenly appeared in Myanmar waters, the CIA wearing the mask of the Ambassador in the US Embassy, proclaimed and shouted that success was achieved. ["At that time, when the Myanma Tatmadaw stepped in to bring the situation under control, all their plans were foiled and Ngapwagyi became very disappointed. they built a huge political platform and brought the little girl on the stage and presented her with the world famous prize so as to make her a person of high dignity and honour.... A world leading figure who is also the leader of the Ngapwagyis also stepped into the scene and began flattering her.... ["Her father was the father of Tatmadaw. Being a daughter of pure Myanmar national and the son of the soil, she must have seen her father's blood. That is why the m national and the son of the soil, she must have seen her father's blood. That is why the Myanma nature in her can be seen very obviously. Her friendliness, gentle nature and righteousness in her are all born virtues. ["Myanma's spirit is based on Myanma's nature and by studying Myanma's historical trends and the spirit of the ancestors of Myanmar, one will automatically become matured and imbued with Myanma's spirit. She does not understand such spirit and she does not possess such a spirit and there are no conditions for her to do so.... Such kind of knowledge and awareness cannot exist in the young girl.... When she joined school she attended an English school which did not pay heed to Myanmarsar or Myanmar history and where they were taught merely to speak English. When she got far from Myanmar land, she...didn't know about Myanma's spirit and the Myanma Tatmadaw which her father had established.... By being ignorant of Myanma's spirit she made mistakes and errors, thus.... ["Do you remember the time just before the girl was released. State leaders called her and talked to her in loving and cordial manner.... But those who...wanted to take political advantage out of it, this congressman, that representatives came to Myanmar, asked for permission to meet the girl and as though they had rehearsed there were clamour and shouts from Norway, the department for broadcasting ill rumours, the Japanese group and the Bangkok group and began to give pressure, advice and orders and made demands so much that it caused such a din. The outcome was that the girl had to stay longer under house arrest.... ["I will tell you frankly, only if she knew Myanma's spirit well, she would not have taken part in any activities from the time she was permitted to live freely. If she had remain still with dignity, the dialogue what they had badly wanted would have made much progress. Just think of it, she wants to become a State leader and at the same time she is not clever enough to detect the political situation and how can their party be able to serve the interest of the State in the future. ["If only she had remain still after her release, on whom will the responsibility lie for taking the next step? The State leaders from the time they called her to meet them the first time had extended invitation to study her, realizing it was time to settle the outstanding political problems and to settle them. At that time also due to outside influence, Myanma's spirit and pride had to be shown. ["Now also, not detecting that the State leaders, on whom there was the responsibility for holding the dialogue, were thinking and making arrangements for this, there were repeated shouts for dialogue. Moreover, as they always see things in a negative sense and blaming all the time, it is natural that Myanma's spirit will continue to show its pride." [(6) Hyde Park, London, described, full of sex and idle squabbling. ["The little girl seems to have forgotten her high standard of education and dignity and those elderly people around her are not controlling and giving good advice, say they want to see and hear such and such a thing happen. However, the group which declares itself to be a democracy group may be influenced by autocracy to believe only in one's words, one's orders and one's power. It is being said that the actress and the clowns appear on the stage in turns and are crowded with people.... ["I've heard that their rig, which is broadcasting foul rumours is breaking all international rules and doing things which ought not to be done. They broadcast in full what is said at this opera stage.... All they give is small talk which is not befitting one's own honour and prestige and talks for revenge, pessimistic views. As such foul talks are being issued all the time, they are bound to continue saying and making mistakes. ["Out of all these, the most degrading thing mentioned in the crowd was that the people in Hlinethaya Township were starving and had to drink congee.... However this is not so.... ["The gravest mistake made recently by the little girl and her wise men is withdrawing all the delegates of their party from the National Convention. If they cannot perceive and consider such good political prospects and signs, then we have no confidence in such a group which has formed a political party and would take the leadership role of the country.... "They can [sic] even detect the political bridge laid out with goodwill to lead them to the political region for holding dialogue, discussions and coordinations which they have been repeating about. They did not detect that this myitta-cetana bridge if used properly would enable them to overcome all obstacles with ease and their interest would be served.... Now as they have completely blocked this bridge, which would have brought good results, they slip in their political view has become very obvious. ["The little girl has no political knowledge and experience at all, especially the basic knowledge on Myanma's politics and it is not surprising that she has made mistakes. As for the two persons, they should be clever enough to detect the political trend and they should at least known the nature and spirit of leaders who had been their friends and comrades."] Jan. 5: Let's all be harmonious, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Cont. (3) Importance of USDA. "March together and be harmonious!"] Jan. 10: Myanmar as it is, by Christopher Thet Tun. [Second visit to Myanmar by an Englishman with a Myanmar mother; fell in love with Myanmar culture. A painter, he is now painting about Myanmar, and doing programs about Myanmar at his local school. "I wish to develop links between Myanmar people and English people." "I now dream of living for longer periods in Myanmar and would be happy to be known as the man who loved and painted Myanmar. My best wishes go out to all of the Myanmar. Kyae Zu Tin Ba De." Dec. 12: Oh! it's like this, by Than Hlyet. [Dialogue between U Myo Chit and Than Hlyet continued. Western media continue to use the word Burma for Myanmar, although they were quick to replace Ceylon with Sri Lanka. ["When I came to realize the real reason for such behaviour by them, I began muttering aloud, 'Oh, its like this.' As we regard the girl as our own little daughter we talk about her as 'that little girl' all the time with love and kindness. But that little girl in speaking about Myanmar uses the words 'Burma' and 'Burmese'. The journals and papers of Leik and Kan always follow her example as a gesture of support for her. ["Oh! this little girl is full of resentment and spite. I first thought her to say 'I won't conform to the usage which they have changed and I will only use those used by the British to whom I am related', and she was purposely acting and speaking perversely.... The thoughts and ideas of that girl are not one of Myanmar thoughts and ideology. All of her ideas and thoughts happen to be identical with those of Leik and Kan and have become more transparent. This is nothing strange.... Having lived for 26 years in a foreign country and married to any Englishman, it is quite natural that she must have British ideas and thoughts and a lot of British blood in her.... ["I continued reading this news article that the writer...Philip Shenan of the 'Herald Tribune'...who always writes bad about Myanmar, is a very intimate friend of Michael Aris, Suu Kyi's British husband. After reading it, my expectations of the little girl, on whom I had great attachment being the daughter of Myanmar's leader and Arzani, totally vanished.... ["Oh, if the little girl gets to be Myanmar's leader -- I dare not think of it.... Every time Michael comes to Myanmar where his most intimate relative is, the little girl changes her voice.... That is why she is making mistakes.... Now I must say "Oh, it's because of this'.... If this little girl become leader of the nation, the British Ambassador, Michael's friend, and experts who come to Myanmar to provide assistance will be classmates from Oxford, the consultant at Information Department will be the close friend of Michael, etc. ["Therefore, using the terms 'Burma' and 'Burmese' is not liked and I think she must be following the racist policy and therefore, the national people will have no confidence. Moreover it is seen that the country will be in shambles. Everything about Myanmar without exception will be known in minute detail by the British without the CIA's help and without having to do special intelligence and they will know internal matters thoroughly.'] Dec. 12: The matter on terms Myanmar and Bamar, by Than Hlyet. [Dialogue between U Myo Chit and Than Hlyet continued. "Even when the United Nations is regarding our country as Myanmar, we denounce and condemn the unimportant newspapers...for writing and using the term Burma in order to offend us.... Up to tenth standard, we understood the terms Myanmar and Bamar to have the same meaning. We assumed that Myanmar is a literature term and Bamar a language.... Beik is written as Myeik Myo but when we pronounce it, it is pronounced as Beik Myo.... The Doh Bamar Thakins and youths did not take into consideration these pronunciations and historical evidence.... When we joined the university, there was no intimacy between the national brethren and Bamar students and we stayed aloof.... Just think how effective the divide-and-rule system of the colonialists was and it looked as though they {national brethren} were told not to become friendly with the Bamars.... Only in February 1947...{did} the various national races bring out their respective names and agreed to be called as Chin race...and Bamar race and realized that the country in which all the national races lived together in unity should be called Myanmar .... The Union of Myanmar is Myanmar Naing-Ngan and Bamar people are Bamar people. Hence...using the terms Burman and Burma deliberately is to ridicule us and to hurt our feelings. One day their turn will come."] Jan. 14: Talks and goodwill relations, by-word for generations, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe's official visit to China. The paukphaw ("born of the same mother" or "descendants of the same race") relationship.] Jan. 16: A Declaration of Loving Kindness and Goodwill, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [The Sino-Myanmar Joint Communique.] Jan. 17-18: Taking pride in Great Shanghai, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [(1) Wonders of modern Shanghai, as seen by visiting Senior General Than Shwe. (2) More of same.] Jan. 19-20: Yunnan Province with aspects similar to Myanmar, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [(1) Yunnan nationalities described, as seen during Senior General Than Shwe's visit. (2) More.] Jan. 25: Upadanapa‡‡aya, by Pe Kan Kaung. [Excerpt from article in the Tokyo The Mainichi {photocopy of top of page--full text as printed in NLM}: Letter from Burma (No. 7) By Aung San Suu Kyi Inflation is a subject that... *** Breakfast blues One of the most popular topics of conversation in Burma today is the rampant inflation. When a group of people gather together to discuss the situation of the country the talk invariably turns into a comparison of the present price of goods with the prices that prevailed before 1990. The comparisons are made wistfully, indignantly, incredulously, furiously. It is a subject that never fails to interest anybody except the tiny handful of the extremely rich who do not have to worry about the price of anything. **** ...an egg or two is stirred into it; something there might be a sprinkling of thinly sliced Chinese sausage; sometimes a variety of beans sold by vendors in the early hours of the morning might be added. It is a fairly substantial and tasty meal. The breakfast fried rice for many... **** ...ready substitute either as the price of an egg has also leapt up, from about 1 kyat each before 1990 to 6 kyats at present. And Chinese pork sausages which can be so conveniently sliced up and thrown in to provide flavor and sustenance here have become almost a luxury at about 450 kyats a.... {end of photocopy quotes} "These days members of a certain gang or a self-appointed town crier group are engaged in instigations in writing and speech. In so doing they are critical of renovation of pagodas and stairways, building of roads and making donations, all out of negative attitude ignoring all the finer points involved. It is more heart-rending to read the material written by persons inside the country than that written by those outside. Of them our Anauk Medawgyi (Western Mum) has been excessive. "Anauk Medawgyi wrote a self-defeating material entitled "Inflation is a subject that interests everybody" (Breakfast blues) in The Maininchi, a Japanese newspaper issued on 8 January 1996. She opted this method of fabrications expecting some form of a prize from the country. On the other hand, writing of this sort may be the only way to earn a certain amount of dollar...." Long discussion of traditional Myanmar breakfasts, noting that breakfast itself is a foreign Western word. "Just take pride in the words of father Bogyoke Aung San who said, 'Kyi my dear, I would like to have steamed beans and nanbya'; the words have become classic. It amounts to thinking highly of herself and forgetting own race to give the title 'Breakfast blues' in derogatory way after finding the difference between breakfast of Myanmar people and that of the West. "Everybody usually enjoys good food.... But our dear 'Gyeedaw' {glossed as "Dear Aunt"} has never gone shopping. It would not be proper just to observe the rising prices. The income of a casual daily wage earner who earns lowest should be enquired.... "Our Gyeedaw said she had no grudge against anyone but she did not say good of anything. In her interview with the Danish daily 'Sunday Politics' she said foreign investors did not benefit Myanmar public. She would say so since there are no entrepreneurs among the relatives of her father-in-law and mother-in-law who can invest here...." Excerpt from article by a Japanese entrepreneur (Mr. Kaguo Nukazawa of Kaindanyen economic organization) on Japanese investment and Myanmar commitment to democracy. "When I, Pe Kan Kaung, look for facts about why the Gyeedaw, who was born in Myanmar and has graduated from the world-famous university, could not see things correctly, I find out that she has been obsessed by lust and superstition."] Jan. 25: Let all be united, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [Cont. (4) Welcome news of surrender of Khun Sa and his Mong Tai Army, thus reducing narcotics drug problems.] 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, as the discrepancy between reports and the running total sometimes indicates.] Jan. 1: 51 persons from 9 households returned to reception camps on Dec. 28, bringing the total to 196,258. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 6: 131 persons from 23 households returned to various reception camps on Jan. 2, bringing the total to 196,389. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 9: 76 persons from 15 households returned to Kanyinchaung camp on Jan. 5, bringing the total to 196,465. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 15: 133 persons from 24 households returned to reception camps Jan. 11, bringing the total to 196,598. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 26: 23 persons from 4 households returned to Kanyinchaung camp on Jan. 23, bringing the total to 196,743. (NLM 1/27) National Races Jan. 2: A 33-member study group from Shan State (East) Special Region 4, led by U Aik Hsan Kan and "supervised by Capt. Thein Htut of Regional Control Command (Kengtung)," arrived in Yangon. (NLM 1/3) // Jan. 3: It visited the Shwedagon Pagoda. (NLM 1/4) // Jan. 4: More Yangon sightseeing. (NLM 1/5) Jan. 5: It Visited People's Square, the Pyithu Hluttaw Building, the University of Culture, and Myanmar Pharmaceutical Industry. (NLM 1/6) // Jan. 6: They visited the Kaba Aye Pagoda and the State Pariyatti Sasana Tekkatho (Yangon), the Bayintnaung Bridge, and the Theingyi and Bogyoke Aung San Markets. (NLM 1/7) // Jan. 7: They visited the Nawade cinema, the Bogyoke Park, and the Defence Services Museum. (NLM 1/8) // Jan. 8: They visited the National Indoor Stadium, the Sports Training Centre, the Planetarium, the and the TV and Radio Department. (NLM 1/9) // Jan. 9: The delegation visited Bago. (NLM 1/10) // Jan. 12: From Jan. 10-12 the group visited Chaungtha Beach and Pathein in Ayeyawady Division. Returning to Yangon, flew home to Kengtung. (NLM 1/13) USDA Jan. 3: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance at the conclusion of Advanced Management Course No. 1 for USDA Executives. (NLM 1/4) Defector from Japan Jan. 3: Kyaw Soe Moe (a) Sakar, former member of the "panel of chairmen of the Work Committee of the National League for Democracy (Liberated Area), Japan Branch, and Joint Secretary of the Burma Association in Japan and auditor of the Burma Youth Volunteer Association of Japan returned to the legal fold on Dec. 18, with his family, through the Myanmar Embassy in Tokyo. (NLM 1/4) Prisoners Released Jan. 25: Four men were released from Insein Jail after their sentences were reduced under Section 401(l) of the Code of Criminal Procedure. (NLM 1/26) NATIONAL CONVENTION Plenary Session Jan. 5: Members of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen of the National Convention Plenary Session continued to scrutinize proposal papers on the chapters the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary. (NLM 1/6) // Jan. 6: Scrutinization continued. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 8: The Plenary Session of the National Convention resumed, with 489 of the 590 delegates present. Pages 1-212 from a compilation of extracts from proposal papers presented on the chapter The Legislature were read by members of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen [texts not reported in NLM]. (NLM 1/9) // Jan. 9: The session continued, with 490 of 590 delegates present. Pages 212-420 were read. (NLM 1/ 10) // Jan. 10: The session continued, with 491 of 590 delegates present. Pages 420-574 were read. (NLM 1/11) Jan. 11: The Plenary Session continued, with 490 of 590 delegates present. Members of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen read pages 1-233 of extracts from proposal papers on the chapter The Executive. (NLM 1/12) // Jan. 12: The session continued, with 486 of 590 delegates present. Pages 234-476 were read. (NLM 1/13) // Jan. 15: The session continued, with 499 of 590 delegates present. Pages 477-725 were read. (NLM 1/16) // Jan. 16: The session continued, with 494 of 590 delegates present. Pages 726-929 were read, completing the extracts on the Executive. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 17: The Plenary Session continued, with 492 of 590 delegates present. Members of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen read pages 1-195 of extracts from proposal papers on the chapter The Judiciary. (NLM 1/18) // Jan. 18: The session continued, with 494 of 590 delegates present. Pages 196-401 were read. (NLM 1/19) // Jan. 19: The session continued, with 490 of 590 delegates present. Pages 402-540 were read. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 29: Coordination Meetings were held by the Panels of Chairmen of six delegates groups: Peasants, State Service Personnel, Other Invited Persons, Political Parties, Representatives-elect, and National Races. (NLM 1/30) Jan. 30: Coordination Meetings were held by the Panels of Chairmen of two delegates groups: Intellectuals and Intelligentsia, and State Service Personnel. (NLM 1/31) Rallies for Convention Dec. 31: Mass rallies expressing total support for the National Convention continued. 38,500 participated in Launglong Township, Taninthaye Division. (NLM 1/1) Jan. 15: 33,000 people rallied at Yebyu Township, Taninthayi Division. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 16: 5,220 people rallied Jan. 14 at Hsipaw Township. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 27: 17,600 people rallied Jan. 25 in Pulaw Township, Taninthayi Division. (NLM 1/28) Jan. 30: 2,849 people rallied Jan. 29 in Aunglan Township. 2,000 people rallied Jan. 30 in Thayet Township. (NLM 1/31) 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.] Jan. 5: Indian Ambassador Lal Thanzaua Pudaite called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 15: Japanese Ambassador Takashi Tajima called on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Saw Tun. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 16: The Japanese Ambassador called on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin, on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein, and on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 17: New Zealand Ambassador Philip H. Gibson, who has completed his tour in Myanmar, called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, on Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, and on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. Japanese Ambassador Takashi Tajima, accompanied by First Secretary Ichiro Maruyama, called on Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, and on Minister at the Prime Minister's Office U Than Shwe. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 19: British Ambassador Robert Anthony Eagelson Gordon (OBE) called on Minister for Home Affairs Lt-Gen. Mya Thin. Japanese Ambassador Takashi Tajima called on Minister at the Deputy Prime Minister's Office U Khin Maung Yin, on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt, and on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 22: The Japanese Ambassador called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. (NLM 1/23) Jan. 25: The Japanese Ambassador called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. FAO Resident Representative Abdul Wahid Jalil called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, and on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. The new Philippine Military Attache Col. Glenn J. Rabonza called on Commander-in-Chief (Air) Maj-Gen. Tin Ngwe. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 26: Malaysian Ambassador Dato Abdul Wahab bin Harun called on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. Korean Ambassador Jung Hwan Kim, who has completed his tour of duty, called on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. (NLM 1/27) New Ambassadors to Myanmar Jan. 3: The Government has agreed to the appointment of Mr. Krzysztof Szumski as new Ambassador of Poland to Myanmar. Mr. Szumski was born May 11, 1944 in Pilzno, Poland. He joined the Foreign Service in 1971. He is concurrently accredited to Thailand, and resident in Bangkok. He is married with three children. (NLM 1/3) Jan. 3: Mr. Yoichi Yamaguchi presented credentials to SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe as new Japanese Ambassador to Myanmar. (NLM 1/4) Jan. 26: Myanmar has agreed to the appointment of Mr. Andras Szabo as new Ambassador of Hungary to Myanmar. He was born Aug. 29, 1945 in Keszthely, Hungary, and graduated in 1967 from the Budapest University of Economics (Faculty of International Relations). He worked for the National Bank of Hungary from 1958-74, and served from 1974-80 as head of the international economic relations section in the Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, and from 1980-82 in the State Wage and Labour Office. He joined the Foreign Ministry in 1982; he is concurrently accredited to Thailand with residence in Bangkok. He is married with one daughter. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 28: The Government has agreed to the appointment of HE Pehin Datu Pekerma Bijaya Kolonel Dato Paduka Haji Hussin bin Haji Sulaiman, Brunei Darussalam Ambassador to Singapore, to serve concurrently as new Brunei Ambassador to Myanmar. He was born June 15, 1941 at Kampong Setia Pahlawan Lama, Brunei, and commissioned in the Brunei Army on Aug. 27, 1965, rising to Colonel. He became High Commissioner to Singapore in June 1995. He is married with three children. (NLM 1/29) New Myanmar Ambassadors Jan. 19: The SLORC has named U Tint Lwin as new Myanmar Ambassador to Bangladesh. (NLM 1/29) INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Joint Workshops & Projects Jan. 9: A workshop on Urbanization and National Economic Development, sponsored by the Human Settlement and Housing Development Department, opened, in the presence of Director-General U Arnt Kyaw, other officials, and Prof. Nigel Harris of the United Nations Centre for Human Settlement (Habitat) and UNDP officials. U Arnt Kyaw said that of the 45 million Myanmars, 25% live in urban and 75% in rural areas, and 30% of the urban population are in Yangon and Mandalay. Dr. Harris read two papers, on Economic Development and Territorial Issue and Key Issues of Economic Development and Territorial Development. Assistant UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Toshi Tanaica also spoke. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 16: A Workshop on Dental Public Health, sponsored by the Ministry of Health and WHO, opened. "The objectives of the workshop are to train dentists for careers in public health services aimed and promoting their ability in improving the oral health status of the population." Dr. May May Kyaing of the Department of Health Services acted as emcee. Prof. Motoi Morimoto of the Nihon University School of Dentistry gave the opening address, followed by discussion on oral epidemiology by Dr. Yupin Songpaisan of Mahidol University and on Atraumatic Restorative Treatment for Dental Caries by Prof. Prathip Phantumvani of Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. On Jan. 17, the session will be chaired by Prof. Prathip, with Prof. Ole Fejeskov of Denmark, Prof. Pantos Papapanou, and Prof. Gunn Dahleu of Sweden speaking on oral macrobiology, periodontal diseases, and solving oral health problems. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 20: A ten-day Instructor Course on Economic Management No. 1 for Women, cosponsored by UNDP and Thiri May Women's Development Cooperative Society Ltd. opened, with 20 trainees from Yangon, Mandalay, and Magway Divisions and Shan State. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 29: A Symposium on Fostering Myanmar's Interdependency in Trade and Investment with Its Neighbouring Countries and Japan, co-sponsored by the Ministry of Trade, ESCAP, and the Japanese Government, opened with an address by Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi, who reviewed recent socio-political events and Government policies, including the surrender of Khun Sa's MTA, the National Convention, and anti-narcotics activities. He noted, however, that "in spite of these political, economic and social developments, some of our friends from western media continue to write with preconceived notions and prejudices. However...more and more correspondents are writing objectively about Myanmar .... Those who have recently visited Myanmar might have noticed that the people of Myanmar are living happily under the freedom, human rights and democracy. They are free from suppression of any kind." The symposium has 14 panelists from Myanmar, China, India, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Japan, and there are 100 participants from 8 countries. Japanese Ambassador Yoichi Yamaguchi and Director Mr. Ravi Sawhney of ESCAP also spoke. General Manager Mr. Sheldon A. Jacobs of Environmental Business Group Co. Ltd. and ESCAP adviser spoke on Myanmar's Export and Investment Potential in a Regional Context. Prof. Minoru Kiryu of Chubu University, Japan, assessed Myanmar policies and prospects. There were comments by Ms. Xie Ruixia of China, Mr. Raghav Chandra of India, Ms. Fiza Fauzia Fachruddin of Indonesia, Prof. Nobuyoshi Nishizawa of Japan, Mr. Nik Najib Husain of Malaysia, Mr. Tay Thian Peng of Singapore, and Ms. Chantra Purnariksha of Thailand. In the afternoon, business sector perspectives were given by Mr. Kazuo Haruna of Japan, Mr. George Abraham of Singapore, and Mr. Vikrom Kromadit of Thailand. (NLM 1/30) Regional and Border Cooperation Jan. 26: Myanmar-Cambodian aviation links were discussed; the Myanmar side was led by Director-General U Tin Aye of the Department of Civil Aviation and the Cambodian side by Under-Secretary of State Mr. Pok Sam Ell and Deputy Director-General Mr. Sok Sambaur of the Civil Aviation Authority. The Under-Secretary called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 1/27) Social and Economic Cooperation Jan. 27: A Memorandum of Understanding on Socio-economic Development and Environmental Improvement Programmes in Myanmar was signed between Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel and President Ms. Yoshiko Nakano of the OISCA-International of Japan [Organization for Industrial, Spiritual and Cultural Advancement]. (NLM 1/28) // Jan. 29: Dr. Nakano called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (NLM 1/30) Jan. 29: UNICEF presented a TV camera worth $25,300 to Myanma Television and Radio Department. (NLM 1/30) Jan. 30: The Myanmar YWCA and UNICEF jointly opened the Garuna Yeiknyein at 110 Bogalayzay Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon. Mr. Alan Smith of Care-Australia and others were present. (NLM 1/31) Forestry Commission Session Jan. 11: The Ministry of Forestry and FAO will co-sponsor the 16th session of the Asia-Pacific Region Forestry Commission at the International Business Centre from Jan. 15-20. 60-70 representatives from 26 countries will discuss "forest sector and development of biodiversity." They will visit the Bago Yoma for two-days to study teak, elephants, and "nature of the Kayin hill people." (NLM 1/12) Jan. 15: The session opened, and was addressed by Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, who stressed the need for environmental protection and conservation, including protection of habitats. "Foresters should no longer think in terms of simplistic forestry applications, but need to adopt an ecosystem management approach. The task of protecting forests should be equitably shared among nations of the world, for all types of forests perform global ecosystem functions." Also speaking were Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, FAO Assistant Director-General Dr. D.A. Harcharik, and Sri Lanka Minister of Farmland and Forestry Mr. D.M. Jayaratna. Delegates are present from Australia, Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Laos, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Sir Lanka, Thailand, United States, and Vietnam. There is an observer from Mongolia, and FAO representatives. On Jan. 18-19 the session will visit the Seinyay forest camp, and it will continue until Jan. 20. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 16: The session continued; FAO Assistant Director-General Dr. D.A. Harcharik hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 17: The session continued. Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe hosted a lunch. The participants will visit Seinyay forest camp in Oktwin Township on Jan. 18-19, to see teak and forest plantations. "Their discussions are to be submitted to Committee on Forestry on 20 January." Minister of Agriculture, Lands and Forestry of Sri Lanka Dr. D.M. Jayaratna called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, as did Assistant Director-General Dr. D.A. Harcharik of the Food and Agricultural Organization, both participants in the Forestry session. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 19: Participants toured teak forests, visiting the Seinyay Forest Camp and the Kyatshar Elephant Camp, etc. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 20: The session concluded. The Commission agreed to establish an ad hoc Working Group for developing environmentally sound forest harvesting techniques and promoting development of a model Code of Practise for Harvesting in Asia and the Pacific. It also endorsed a proposal for an Asia-Pacific Forestry Sector Outlook Study to be carried out of the next year, to look into forestry prospects in the next century. The Commission was founded in 1949. The 17th Session will be held in Jakarta in 1998. (NLM 1/21) Donations from Abroad [We report here donations apparently from foreign sources, except for those incidental to visits reported elsewhere. We do not normally report the numerous articles on Burmese donations to government, religious, and social organizations and charities.] Jan. 2: Johnson & Johnson (Thailand) Ltd., and Miyuki Uchiumi and Yaeko Yamashiro of Women's Federation for World Peace each donated disposable syringes and needles to the Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association. Managing Director Mr. S. Ishida of Nissho Corp. of Osaka, Japan, donated 300 blood bags worth K 60,000 to the No. 2 Military Hospital. (NLM 1/3) Jan. 6: Executive Director Mr. Sebastian Tan of Prolux International Pte. Ltd. of Singapore donated Philips sodium lighting worth US$ 43,220 for the Shwedagon Pagoda. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 9: Dr. Tomi Prvulovic of Yugoslavia on Jan. 2 donated study aids worth $200 to the Institute of Medicine-1. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 9: Mitsubishi Co. donated 17.5 tons of ammonia sulphate fertilizer; Ambo Co. donated K 2 million; and Manami Trading Co. donated K 75,000 to the Myanmar Agricultural Services. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 15: General Manager Mr. Hans F. Ruinemans of Business Tales Co. of the Netherlands donated a Sony video motor to TV Myawady. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 15: Manager Mr. Sunny Chow of South-East Asian Region of Dentsply Asia Co. donated a porcelain furnace and equipment worth $8,000 to the Institute of Dental Medicine. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 15: Korean writer Mrs. Nam Jan Shin donated $2,000 to the State Pariyatti Sasana Tekkatho (Yangon). (NLM 1/16) Jan. 19: Mr. Morio Sakurai of the Japan-Myanmar Cultural Association donated x-ray equipment worth ¯ 12 million to the Jivitadana Sangha Hospital. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 19: Seok Ji Yeon, a Korean Buddhist Chogye Sect of Sun Woo Temple in Milyang City, Korea, donated a 20-inch TV set to the Tiger Parahita School for Development of National Races. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 20: An 8-member Japanese delegation led by Mr. Isao Kagohara of Sankoo Koumuten Co. presented 8 Nikon microscopes worth $18,400 to the Defence Services Institute of Medicine. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 23: Director Alvin Law of Accel Marketing Ltd., a distributor of Canon equipment, donated 26 Canon F-500 calculators to the Yangon Institute of Technology; they will be sold to students at a discount price. (NLM 1/24) Jan. 24: Consultant Surgeon of Britain Dr. M.J. Harshman donated laproscopic equipment worth $5,000 to the Health Department. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 25: The British Government donated $1.53 million to UNHCR Liaison Office Head Ms. Nellie Chan "for utilization at the reception camps for those who had illegally fled to Bangladesh." (NLM 1/26) Jan. 30: Dr. Win Maung-Daw Khin San Win of London donated medicines worth K 45,000 to No. 2 Military Hospital. (NLM 1/31) FOREIGN VISITORS [Although we rarely note it, foreign visitors calling on Myanmar officials are often accompanied by their Ambassadors. -- HCMacD.] International Agency Visitors Jan. 24: Executive Director Mr. Suwan Pasugswad of the World Bank called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 29: Assistant Director-General Mr. A.Z. M. Obaidullah Khan of the Asian and Pacific Region Office of FAO called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe, and on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. (NLM 1/30) Cultural Visitors Dec. 31: Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw held a dinner for the Chinese Writers Delegation led by Mr. Yuan Ying. The delegation toured Yangon. (NLM 1/1) // Jan. 1: The delegation toured Bago. (NLM 1/ 2) // Dec. 2: The delegation visited the Printing and Publishing Enterprise, the Defence Services Museum, and the Bogyoke Aung San Market. (NLM 1/3) // Jan. 3: The delegation returned home. (NLM 1/4) Medical Visitors Jan. 1: The visiting 10-member surgical team from Singapore General Hospital led by maxillo-facial specialist Honorary Professor Dr. S.T. Lee operated on 11 patients on Dec. 28, 10 on Dec. 29, and 10 on Jan. 1. Nine patients will be treated tomorrow. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 15: A six-member team of doctors led by Medical Director Dr. James Martone of Orbis International called on Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin. The team will teach "on eye and eye treatment" from Jan. 14-21. (NLM 1/16) Business Visitors [May include Governmental delegations with predominantly commercial aims.] Jan. 5: A Singapore economic delegation led by Mr. Chang Tien Hsia of Meinhardt Pte. Ltd. and Golden Crown Co. Ltd. of Singapore arrived to study Industrial Producers Cooperative Societies in Bago for a week. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 5: President and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Dato Mohd Hassan of Petroliam National Behard (Petronas) of Malaysia, and party, called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 8: A delegation led by Senior Advisor Mr. Midori Matsuhiro of JA Zenchu Central Union of Agricultural Cooperatives, Japan, called on Minister for Cooperatives U Than Aung. (NLM 1/9) Jan. 8: Netherlands Parliamentarian Mr. H. Eversdijk, Member of the Administrative Board of the PTT Telecom Co. of Netherlands, and party, called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss cooperation in aviation and marine transport. (NLM 1/9) Jan. 9: A group led by Chairman Mr. Henri Andre of Andre & Cie. SA of Switzerland called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, and on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 10: Vice-President Mr. Li Shuzhi of China National Machinery and Equipment Import and Export Corporation called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, and discussed building ships for Myanmar Five Star Line. (NLM 1/11) Jan. 10: Chief Executive Officer for Asia and the Pacific Region Mr. Simon Murray of Deutsche Bank called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/11) Jan. 11: Executive Director Mr. Gerald Hung of Otis Elevator Company (S) Pte. Ltd., and Mr. Peter Noon, explained the effectiveness of its escalators and elevators. Daw Let Let Win Lay and Mr. S. Izumi explained Otis' "arrangements for Myanmar and Japanese technology" and Marketing Manager C.S. Chow discussed norms and evaluation of elevators. (NLM 1/12) Jan. 12: President Mr. Choi Jae Won of Kodeco Group called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe. (NLM 1/13) // Jan. 15: He called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 12: Managing Director Mr. Snoh V [sic] of Sky Bird Group Co. Ltd. of Thailand called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 1/13) Jan. 15: A delegation from the German Asia Pacific Business Association-OAV led by Mr. Peter Amsinck of Schuback and Sohne Co., called on Deputy Minister for Trade U Aung Thaung. (NLM 1/16) // Jan. 16: The delegation called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung, and on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Managing Director Capt. Erling Frische of the Association led the delegation in a call on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win to discuss airport construction, aviation, extension of the Myanma Five Star Line, dredging of Bago River, etc. (NLM 1/17) // Jan. 19: The delegation called on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 15: Executive Director Mr. Yoji Sugiyama of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and party, called on Deputy Minister for Trade U Aung Thaung. (NLM 1/ 16) Jan. 16: Executive Vice-President Dr. Gunter Wilhelm of Siemens AG of Germany and party called on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein, on Minister for Rail Transportation U Win Sein, 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 1/17) // Jan. 17: He called on Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 16: Chairman Police Gen. Chavalit Yodmani of Bangpakong Industrial Park of Thailand and delegation called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 17: Retired Minister at Prime Minister's Office Chairman Mr. Lee Khoon Choy of Eng Lee International Consultants Pte. Ltd. of Singapore and party called on Minister at the Prime Minister's Office Brig-Gen. Lun Maung. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 17: Vice-President Mr. Kayem Christian of Pacific Island Aviation and party called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 17: Executive Director Mr. Masaru Suzuki of Japan Maritime Security Association and party called on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 20: Retired General Shigeto Nagano, member of the Japanese House of Councillors, called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 25: Executive Vice-President Mr. Shigeji Ueshima and party of Mitsui & Co. Ltd. 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, on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, and on Minister for Industry 1 Lt-Gen. Sein Aung. (NLM 1/26) // Jan. 26: He called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. In the evening, he hosted a dinner for Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun, and other high officials. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 25: Chairman Mr. Shmuel Dankner and party of Dankner Group of Israel called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, and on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein to discuss producing materials from methanol. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 25: President Mr. Kenneth Macleod of International Panorama Resource Corp. of Canada called on Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 25: Director Mr. W.H. Hopper and party of Westcoast Energy Inc. of Canada called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 28: Chairman Mr. Kazuo Maruna of Marubeni Corporation of Japan and party arrived. (NLM 1/29) // Jan. 29: Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin (Acting Minister for Planning and Economic Development) hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/30) // Jan. 30: He called on Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, on Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Saw Tun, and on Minister for Energy U Khin Maung Thein. Mr. Maruna hosted a dinner attended by Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin, Deputy Prime Minister Lt-Gen. Tin Tun and other officials. (NLM 1/31) Jan. 30: A delegation from the Hong Kong Development Council called on Deputy Minister for Finance U Win Naing. (NLM 1/31) Religious Visitors Jan. 10: The International Patipatti Affairs Centre will hold the Third Collective Ordination and Novitiation Ceremony at which 105 foreign devotees from 18 nations will take part. They arrived today from Britain (21), Czech Republic (1), Holland (6), Australia (36), USA (11), Germany (8), Austria (19), Canada (2), France (1), Italy (7), Japan (1), Switzerland (28), and New Zealand (2). 14 men will become novices and 18 girls participate in the ear-boring ceremony on Jan. 13; and 73 men will be ordained on Feb. 14. (NLM 1/11) // Jan. 13: 105 foreigners from 17 countries took part. (NLM 1/14) Jan. 11: A Korean Buddhist delegation of five Chogye Order monks and 10 laity, led by Rev. Mok-Tak Hye-Eun Sunim, Chairman of the International Buddhism Culture Director Association and Chief Editor of the Si Dae Buddhist Newspaper, met with religious authorities, and served dinner and gave gifts to the Tiger Parahita School. (NLM 1/12) Media Visitors Jan. 17: Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw addressed Liaison Officers Course No. 3 of the Ministry of Information, saying that "There has been rapid political, economic and social progress in Myanmar which especially draws the attention of foreign mediamen. Though there have been statements with constructive critical views, some are unwarranted broadcasts and reports critical of development with negative attitudes, ignoring objective conditions in the country.... He noted the present course is conducted with the main aim to turn out qualified liaison officers to make visiting mediamen realize positive efforts made here, help them accomplish their trips smoothly and arrange meetings with Myanmar authorities and representatives of organizations." Previous courses were held in 1994 and 1995. There are 14 trainees in the 12-week course. (NLM 1/18) Jan. 18: Seven Nepalese journalists led by Chairman Mr. Man Ju Ratna Sakya of the Nepal Journalist Association arrived for a 10-day study tour. They will visit Yangon, Bagan, NyaungU, Mandalay, Sagaing, and Pyin Oo Lwin. (NLM 1/19) // Jan. 21: They visited Bagan-NyaungU on Jan. 19, and Mandalay and the University for Development of National Races in Sagaing on Jan. 20. (NLM 1/22) // Jan. 22: They visited PyinOoLwin and Mandalay, and then returned to Yangon. (NLM 1/23) // Jan. 23: They toured Yangon, and met with Myanmar journalists. (NLM 1/24) // Jan. 24: They visited Dagon University. (NLM 1/25) // Jan. 25: They visited the Defence Services Museum, the Printing and Publishing Enterprise, and Bogyoke Aung San Market. Nepal Charge d'Affaires Mr. Durga Bahadur Subedi hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/26) // Jan. 26: They called on Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw, and visited the Myanmar Gems Museum; the Minister hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/27) // Jan. 27: They returned home. (NLM 1/28) Chinese Provincial Officials Jan. 3: A five-member delegation led by Deputy Governor Mr. Liu Jing of Yunnan Province called on Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, and on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. (NLM 1/4) // Jan. 5: The delegation called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 8: Vice-Governor Mr. Huang Yi of Dehong Prefecture, Yunnan Province, and party called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/9) Jan. 26: Vice-Governor Mr. Zhang Jiakun of Fujing Province, and party, called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/27) Thai Officials Jan. 5: Director-General Mr. Yanyong Thanompicai of the Royal Thai Forest Department and party called on Minister for Forestry Lt-Gen. Chit Swe; he was presented with seeds to be sown in commemoration of the Thai King's 50th year on the throne. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 6: Governor of Kanchanaburi Province Mr. Suchan Phongnua and party, who are participating in Myanma Trade Fair '96, called on Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/7) Vietnam Goodwill Delegation Jan. 6: A Vietnam Goodwill Delegation headed by Chairman Mr. Hoang Van Nghien of the Hanoi People's Committee arrived, and was welcomed by Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay, who hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/7) // Jan. 7: The delegation, here at the invitation of Yangon City Development Committee Chairman Mayor U Ko Lay, visited the Shwedagon Pagoda, the People's Square, the Defence Services Museum, and the Bogyoke Aung San Market. (NLM 1/8) // Jan. 8: The delegation called on Yangon Mayor U Ko Lay. In addition to the Chairman, it included Director Mr. Tran Viet Tan of the Foreign Economic Relations Department, Prof. Dr. Le Van Vien, City Chief Architect Mr. Nguyen Lau, Head of Office Mr. Nguyen Manh Kien and others. The delegation also 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 1/9) // Dec. 11: The delegation toured Yangon, including Dagon University in Dagon Myothit, the Thanlyin-Kyauktan Industrial Zone, the Thakayta Viewpoint Project, the Myanma Gems Emporium Hall, the Hlawgar Lake, and Shukhinta Hotel. On Dec. 10-11 the delegation had visited Mandalay and PyinOoLwin. (NLM 1/12) // Jan. 12: The delegation returned home. (NLM 1/13) Singapore Ministerial Delegation Jan. 22: A Singapore delegation led by Minister of Trade and Industry Mr. Yeo Cheow Tong, Minister of Communications Mr. Mah Bow Tan, and Deputy Minister of National Development and Foreign Affairs Mr. Lim Hng Kiang and party arrived to attend a Joint Ministerial Working Committee for promotion of economics, trade, and investment. A dinner was hosted by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel. (NLM 1/23) Jan. 23: The Committee met, and was addressed by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. On the Myanmar side were Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung, Minister for Communications, Posts & Telegraphs U Soe Tha, Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, Chairman of the Yangon City Development Committee Mayor U Ko Lay, Deputy Minister for Agriculture U Tin Hlaing, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyunt Swe, Deputy Minister for Trade U Aung Thaung and others. Myanmar officials "presented review of bilateral economic relations and Myanmar's economic development plans. The Singapore side, accompanied by Singapore Ambassador Calvin Eu Mun Hoo, "reviewed bilateral trade, investment, tourism and agrobusiness cooperation." It "also forwarded a new area of cooperation--Human Resource Training Programme for Myanmar. The Singapore delegation called on SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt, who also hosted a dinner. Myanmar, represented by Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win, and Singapore, represented by Minister of Communication Mr. Mah Boh Tan, signed a new agreement on civil aviation, "including all amendments to the old contract made by the two sides during it's nearly 20-year period" signed on Apr. 26, 1976. (NLM 1/24) Jan. 24: The delegation called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba, who hosted a dinner for it, and on Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win. Minister of National Development Mr. Lim Hng Kiang called on Minister for Agriculture Lt-Gen. Myint Aung, and visited the Mingaladon Orchid Garden and Vegetable and Fruit Research Development Centre in Hlegu Township, on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, and on Minister for Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Brig-Gen. Maung Maung. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 25: The Minister of Trade and Industry flew home; the remainder of the delegation stayed on. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 26: The other delegation members visited Bagan-NyaungU on Jan. 25, returning to Yangon in the evening. On Jan. 26, it called on SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, and Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win hosted a dinner. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 27: The remainder of the delegation returned home. (NLM 1/28) Cambodian Prime Minister Jan. 22: At the invitation of SLORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Than Shwe, His Royal Highness Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh, First Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, and Her Royal Highness Princess Norodom Marie Ranariddh will pay an official visit to Myanmar in the near future. (NLM 1/22) Jan. 25: Cambodian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mr. Ung Huot arrived, accompanied by Permanent Secretary Dr. Chem Widhya and officials. He called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 27: Official biography of First Prime Minister Prince Norodom Ranariddh. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 27: The First Prime Minister of Cambodia Prince Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh and Her Royal Highness Princess Norodom Marie Ranariddh arrived by special aircraft, and was welcomed by SLORC Prime Minister Chairman Senior General and Madame Than Shwe with full official honours. Senior General and Madame Than Shwe then called on the visitors at the State Guest House. At noon, an Agreement on the Establishment of a Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation was signed by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw and Cambodian Foreign Minister Mr. Ung Huot. In the afternoon, the Prince was received by SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe; he was accompanied by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mr. Ung Huot, Co-Minister in Charge of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Tourism Mr. Veng Sereyvuth, State Secretary of the Ministry of National Defence Mr. Ek Sereywath, State Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Economy Mr. Sun Chanthol, State Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce Mr. Lu Lay Sreng, and other officials. Other members of the Cambodian delegation (not noted above) included Under Secretary of State of the Ministry of Environment and Director of Cabinet to the First Prime Minister Mr. Ly Thuch and Cambodian Ambassador to Laos Mr. Khek Lerang. The Cambodian Prime Minister visited the Defence Services Museum, while the Princess visited Bogyoke Aung San Market. Both visited the Myanmar Gems Museum and the Shwedagon Pagoda. Calls by Cambodian Officials: State Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce Mr. Lu Lay Sreng called on Deputy Minister for Trade U Aung Thaung. Co-Minister in Charge of the Council of Ministers and Minister of Tourism Mr. Veng Sereyvuth called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. State Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Economy Mr. Sun Chanthol called on Director-General U Arnt Kyaw of the Foreign Economic Relations Department. In the evening, SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe hosted a formal dinner for the visitors at the Pyithu Hluttaw Reception Hall, at which toasts were exchanged. [two pages of photos] (NLM 1/28) Jan. 28: The Cambodian Prime Minister and party made a "pilgrimage" to Mandalay, Amarapura, and Bagan-NyaungU, returning to Yangon in the afternoon. (NLM 1/ Jan. 29: The Cambodian Prime Minister concluded his visit. The two countries agreed to exchange Ambassadors; the Myanmar and Cambodian Ambassadors in Laos will be concurrently accredited. A Joint Communique was issued, with the following main points [full text in NLM]: -- There was a cordial exchange of view between the Cambodian and Myanmar Prime Ministers "on matters of mutual interest as well as on current regional and international issues." -- [In addition to calls already noted above] Under Secretary Mr. Ly Thuch called on Secretary U Thaung Tin of the National Commission for Environmental Affairs. -- Myanmar reaffirmed its support of Peaceful Co-existence and regional cooperation and "reaffirmed its commitment for closer cooperation with the nations of Southeast Asia, particularly with ASEAN." Cambodia "warmly welcomes the acceptance of Myanmar as Observer of ASEAN at the next 29th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting and views this new development as benefitting peace, stability and prosperity in the region." -- The two countries agreed to the exchange of Ambassadors, and signed the Agreement establishing a Joint Commission to further strengthen ties "particularly in economic, trade, social, cultural and other fields of mutual interest." -- State Law and Order Restoration Council was invited to visit Cambodia "at a mutually convenient time." [page of photos] (NLM 1/30) Sri Lanka Foreign Minister Jan. 28: At the invitation of Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, Mr. Lakshman Kadirgamar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka, will visit Myanmar in the near future. (NLM 1/28) Jan. 29: He arrived, accompanied by Director-General Mr. A Gunasekara of Economic Affairs, and other officials. He called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, who hosted a dinner. Director Mrs. Indirani Jayasekera and party of the Export Development Board of Sri Lanka called on Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba. (NLM 1/30) Jan. 30: He was received by Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw, and visited the Shwedagon Pagoda. (NLM 1/31) MYANMAR DELEGATIONS Study Delegations Jan. 8: Lecturer Daw Aye Aye Myint of the Institute of Economics left for Singapore to attend a Framework for Economic Transformation Course; Assistant Librarian U Tun Aung Kyaw of the Workers College Library to attend a Librarianship Course, and Assistant Engineer U Sithu of the Institute of Computer Technology to attend an Artificial Intelligence and Expert System Course. (NLM 1/9) Jan. 9: A study mission from the Ministry of Agriculture consisting of Managing Director U Myo Myint and General Manager U Chit Lwin of Myanma Sugarcane Enterprise and General Manager U Than Htay Lwin of Myanma Agriculture Service left for Thailand to study Kerat Sugar Mill and sugarcane research in Thailand, and sugar mills in Pakistan. (NLM 1/10) Jan. 15: Assistant Manager Daw Myint Khine of Myanma Insurance left for Bombay, India Jan. 14 to attend a Jan. 17-Mar. 6 Life Insurance Course. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 15: A delegation led by Director U Phone Myint (TV) of Myanma Television and Radio Department left for Japan to attend courses on TV production and telecast engineering. Other members are Senior Engineer U Myint Aung, Assistant Engineer U Aung Saw Oo, and TV Technician U San Win. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 19: A study group of 20 young teachers left for Japan Jan. 16 to study educational activities for a month at the invitation of the Japan international Cooperation Agency. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 20: A delegation led by Deputy Minister for Finance U Win Naing left for Malaysia to study securities dealing, money markets, and share markets. Other members are Director-General U Kyaw Aye of the Attorney-General's Office, Managing Director U Kyaw Kyaw of the Myanma Economic Bank, and Assistant Director Daw Thaik Thaik Tin of the Project Appraisal and Progress Reporting Department. (NLM 1/21) // Jan. 25: The delegation returned. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 23: Assistant Director U Khin Maung Ba of the Central Statistics Organization left for Israel Jan. 22 to attend the Training Course for International Seminar on Computerization of Social Systems, Organization and Development. (NLM 1/24) Delegations to Meetings & Events Jan. 19: Vice-Chairman U Sai Aung Tun and member Dr. Than Tun of the Myanmar History Commission left Jan. 17 for Bangkok to attend the First International Conference on the Literary, Historical and Cultural Aspects of Thao Hung Thao Cheuang, from Jan. 17-19. The Conference is sponsored by the National Cultural Commission of Thailand, Thai Khadi Research Institute of Thammasat University, and the Cultural Research Institute of Laos. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 28: A delegation led by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel left for Switzerland to attend the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum, Feb. 2-4, and a Seminar on Myanmar's Investment Opportunities to be held in France, Germany, and Italy. He was accompanied by Deputy Director-General U Khin Maung Yi of the Directorate of Investments and Companies, and PSO U Tin Maung Htay. (NLM 1/29) Jan. 29: Deputy Director U Chin Khok and Assistant Director U Aye Po of the Fisheries Department left Jan. 28 for Japan to attend the Japan International Food and Aquaculture Expo 1996 in Kobe from Feb. 1-3. (NLM 1/30) Gen. Than Shwe To China Jan. 2: SLORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Than Shwe will visit China, at the invitation of "the Government and Leaders" of China, in the first half of January 1996. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 7: SLORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Than Shwe left for China. They were accompanied by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and wife, Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw and wife, Minister for Information Maj-Gen. Aye Kyaw, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Saw Tun, Minister for Industry-2 Maj-Gen. Kyaw Than, Commander of North-East Command Brig-Gen. Tin Ngwe, and officials from the SLORC, the Defence Ministry, and the Foreign Ministry On arrival in Beijing, the delegation issued the following Press Release [full text]: 1. At the invitation of the Government and Leaders of the People's Republic of China, Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council of the Union of Myanmar, is currently visiting the People's Republic of China on an official friendly visit. 2. The Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council is leading a high-level delegation to further enhance and strengthen the existing friendly ties which have been traditionally nurtured and maintained over the years, and to exchange views and hold discussions between responsible personnel at various levels for the promotion of mutually beneficial economic cooperation between the two countries. 3. During the visit the Myanmar Delegation will hold discussions with the Chinese leaders in further promoting mutually beneficial interests. While in the People's Republic of China, Senior General Than Shwe and members of the Myanmar Delegation will also visit sites of historical and cultural interest as well as economic and industrial centres. 4. The Delegation of Myanmar notes with great appreciation the opportunity to visit the People's Republic of China as the First Delegation in 1996. 5. The Delegation of Myanmar conveys the cordial greetings and goodwill of the people of Myanmar to the people of the People's Republic of China. (NLM 1/8) Jan. 8: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe and his delegation arrived in Beijing on Jan. 7, and were welcomed by Chinese President Jiang Zemin with full ceremonies. [page of photos] (NLM 1/9) Jan. 10: In Jan. 8, SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, accompanied by his delegation, held talks with Chinese President Mr. Jiang Zemin. The Chinese side included Vice Premier and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr. Qian Qichen, Minister for Construction Mr. Hou Jie, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Mrs. Chen Baoliu, Vice-Minister for Communications Mr. Hong Shanxiang, and Vice-Minister for Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Madame Li Guohua. SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe stressed the need to work for "regional cooperation to secure regional stability and progress," and noted that Myanmar placed emphasis on its regional relations and "at the same time give priority to cooperation with ASEAN nations." The Chinese President recalled the 2,000-year friendship between China and Myanmar, and noted the existence of "ample opportunities in economic and trade sectors between the two countries," referring to "agreements due to be signed during the day. He expressed delight in Myanmar's progress under the leadership of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, and "said he believed sovereign nations must have the right to choose social system and the development course in accord with their own conditions. He said he would not accept in any way putting international pressure and interfering in internal affairs under the pretext of human rights and democracy." At noon, the following agreements were signed by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development Brig-Gen. Abel and Vice-Minister for Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation Madame Li Guohua: -- Framework Agreement on Provision of Interest-Subsidized Preferential Credit by the Government of the People's Republic of China to the Government of the Union of Myanmar. -- Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation between the Government of the Union of Myanmar and the Government of the People's Republic of China (Grant) The following was signed by Myanmar Ambassador to China U Set and Vice-Minister for Culture Mr. Liu Deyou: -- Protocol on Cultural Cooperation between the Ministry of Culture of the Union of Myanmar and the Ministry of Culture of the People's Republic of China. SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe then called on Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Mr. Li Ruihuan, who hosted a lunch. The Myanmar delegation then proceeded to the Dagoba of the Sacred Tooth Relic at the Ba Da Chu outside Beijing, where Senior Gen. and Madame Than Shwe paid homage. It was announced separately that the Buddha's Tooth Relic will again visit Myanmar in late 1996. In the evening, Chinese President Mr. and Mrs. Jiang Zemin hosted a dinner. Madame Than Shwe visited the All China Women's Federation and the Friendship Store. [full page of photos] (NLM 1/11) Jan. 13: On Jan. 9, SLORC Chairman Senior General and Madame Than Shwe called on Chinese Premier and Madame Li Peng, who then hosted a lunch. SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and several ministers met with Secretary-General Mr. Luo Gan of the State Council. Daw Kyaing Kyaing [Mme. Than Shwe] visited the Beihai Kindergarten. The delegation then flew to Shanghai. It received Shanghai Mayor Mr. Xu Kuangdi, and Vice-Mayor Mr. Sha Lin hosted a dinner. On Jan. 10, the delegation drove to Zhangjiagang City, where they were welcomed by Governor Mr. Zheng Silin of Jiangsu Province, who hosted lunch. SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and the ministers visited the Montresor Food Co. Ltd., supermarkets, restaurants, and the Pedestrian Street, as well as the 271 unit model Qianxixiang Village. Sen-Gen. Than Shwe visited the Shazhou Iron and Steel Works. The delegation went back to Shanghai for the night. On Jan. 11, they visited industries and sights in Shanghai, including the Bell Telephone Equipment Co. where they were welcomed by General Manager Mr. Roger Theys and others. SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and the ministers visited the Shanghai Constructions Group Cement Factory. The delegation flew on to Kunming. [two pages of photos] (NLM 1/14) Jan. 13: The delegation returned home to Yangon. (NLM 1/14) Jan. 14: On Jan. 11, the delegation arrived in Kunming, and was welcomed by Yunnan Province Governor Mr. He Zhiqiang and Vice-Governor Mr. Niu Shaoyao, Kunming Mayor Mr. Wang Tinchen, Myanmar Consul-General U Win Aung and others. On Jan. 12, the Governor escorted the delegation on visits to the Yunnan Institute of the Nationalities and the Kunming Pharmaceutical Factory. Secretary Mr. Gao Yan of the Yunnan Communist Party Standing Committee hosted the delegation at lunch. In the afternoon, SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and the ministers visited the Yunnan Minority Nationalities Cultures Village. In the evening, the Yunnan Governor called on Senior General Than Shwe, and then hosted a dinner. On Jan. 13, after visiting the Myanmar Consulate-General, the delegation flew back to Yangon. [page of photos] (NLM 1/15) // [two pages of photos] (NLM 1/16) Sino-Myanmar Joint Communique Jan. 13: Joint Communique by Myanmar and China, 13 January 1996 [full text]: The Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Senior General Than Shwe paid an official friendly visit to the People's Republic of China from 7 to 13 January, 1996, at the invitation of the Government of the People's Republic of China. President Jiang Zemin of the People's Republic of China held official talks with Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Senior General Than Shwe. Premier Li Peng and Chairman Li Ruihuan of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference met with the Chairman Senior General Than Shwe separately. The talks and meetings were held in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The two sides briefed each other on their respective domestic situation and had an in depth and extensive exchange of views on the ways to develop Sino-Myanmar friendly relations and cooperation and on international and regional issues of common concern. During the visit, the two sides signed the (i) Agreement of Economic and Technical Cooperation Between the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Union of Myanmar; (ii) Protocol on Cultural Cooperation Between the Ministry of Culture of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Culture of the Union of Myanmar; and (iii) Framework Agreement on Provision of Interest-Subsidized Credit by the Government of the People's Republic of China to the Government of the Union of Myanmar. The distinguished Myanmar guests also visited industrial, agricultural, cultural and educational projects in Beijing, Shanghai, Zhaingjiagan and Kunming. The two sides are satisfied with the important results of the visit by Chairman Senior General Than Shwe and believe that it has further enhanced their good-neighbourly relations and cooperation and will contribute to peace, stability and development in the region. The two sides expressed their satisfaction with the rapid development of their relations in recent years. They shared the view that it accorded with the aspiration and interests of the two peoples to constantly consolidate and promote the Sino-Myanmar friendship and cooperation and the traditional Paukphaw friendship between the two peoples. The two sides have agreed to further explore new ways and new areas for expanding their economic cooperation so as to advance their economic and technical cooperation as well as trade to a new high. The two sides shared extensive consensus on major regional and international issues. They stressed that the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence jointly initiated by China and Myanmar which had proven in international practice to have strong vitality should continue to serve as the basic norms governing state-to-state relations in international affairs. Both sides agreed that it accorded with the common aspiration and the fundamental interests of the peoples of the region to safeguard regional peace and stability and to intensify bilateral and regional economic cooperation. The Myanmar side briefed the Chinese side on its domestic situation and external relations. The Chinese side gave a positive appraisal of the new achievements that the Myanmar Government and people made in carrying out the major development objectives in the political, economic and social fields and in their external relations. The Myanmar side reiterated once again that Myanmar would firmly follow the "One China" policy and recognize Taiwan as an inalienable part of China. It would not establish official ties with Taiwan. The Chinese side appreciated Myanmar's position as thus stated. The Chinese side informed the Myanmar side of the progress it had made in reform and opening-up and the long-term objectives for its future economic development. the Myanmar side positively appraised and congratulated the achievements of the Chinese Government and people scored in economic development, reform and opening-up program and external relations. The Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and Madame Than Shwe expressed sincere thanks to the Chinese Government and people for the grand, warm and friendly reception accorded to them during their visit to China. Chairman Senior General Than Shwe invited President Jiang Zemin to visit Myanmar at a mutually convenient time and President Jiang Zemin accepted the invitation with pleasure. (NLM 1/14) Cultural Festival in Singapore Jan. 1: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt met the Myanmar Gonyi cultural troupe, led by former Ambassador U Maung Maung Soe Tint, which will participate in the Myanmar Cultural Festival at the Santosa Gardens in Singapore. (NLM 1/2) // Jan. 18: The troupe returned. On Jan. 6 the delegation, including artistes Myint Myint Kyi, Thanda Lin, Mos and Moe Di, gave a traditional Myanmar Anyeint performance at the World Trade Center. (NLM 1/19) MILITARY Surrenders by Armed Group Members Jan. 18: A member of the Kayin armed group returned to the legal fold Jan. 7 at the Kyaw Kho camp in South-East Command [name and details]. (NLM 1/19) Jan. 26: 30 members of various armed groups returned to the legal fold during December 1995. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 27: Two members of the Kayin armed group returned to the legal fold on Jan. 21 at Taungthonlon camp in South-East Command [names]. (NLM 1/ Khun Sa and Army Surrender Jan. 8: 4,431 men of Khun Sa's Mong Tai Army (MTA), active in the Homong and Loilam regions along the Thai border, gave themselves up "and turned their areas over to the Tatmadaw" with 3,483 "arms and ammunition" on Jan. 5-7. "They began to realize their past misdeeds and understand the Government's true goodwill at the time Tatmadaw columns crossed Thanlwin River and advanced into their areas beginning 15 December 1995." As a result, 1,653 MTA members returned to the legal fold in the Loilem region on Jan. 5-6, bringing an assortment of 1,866 small arms and heavy weapons. Another 2,778 returned to the legal fold in the Homong region on Jan. 7, bringing with them 1,617 assorted arms. (NLM 1/9) Jan. 12: On Jan. 8, 180 MTA members returned to the legal fold in Homong region, with a weapons workshop and on Jan. 9 two munitions depots with 9,620 heavy weapons, 8,000 mines, and 12,000 hand grenades. On Jan. 9, 290 men returned to the legal fold in Loilem region with 290 weapons; another 24, with 24 weapons, joined them on Jan. 10. On Jan. 11, 101 members of the Shan United Revolutionary Army (SURA), a subordinate organization to MTA, gave up their Loitwe Camp in the Monghtaw-Monghta region east of the Thanlwin. Altogether, from Jan. 5-12, 5,026 members of the MTA returned to the legal fold with 3,797 weapons, a weapons workshop, and two munitions depots. More are expected to follow suit. (NLM 1/13) Jan. 16: 1,101 more members of the Mong Tai Army (MTA) returned to the legal fold in Lwetun region, Monghsat Township 394 (with 301 weapons) on Jan. 12; 219 (with 167 weapons) on Jan. 13; and 488 (with 308 weapons) on Jan. 14. This brings the total to 6,127 men with 4,573 weapons. (NLM 1/ 17) Jan. 18: "A second group of 1,728 MTA members led by Khun Sa, bringing in 1,096 heavy and small weapons and ammunition, returned to the legal fold at Homong headquarters on 18 January morning. Also present to mark their return were member of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint, Commander of Eastern Command Brig-Gen. Tin Htut and Tatmadaw officers. They cordially conversed with Khun Sa and MTA members and presented gifts to them." Minister Lt-Gen. Maung Thint spoke, outlining Our Three Main National Causes and the 12 national objectives. "Altogether 1,894 recruits and 138 heavy arms were handed over to the Tatmadaw on 12 January 1996 and 197 Homong-made launchers, 13,452 grenades, 10,346 mines and 7,407 rounds of heavy weapons left in the Homong arms cache and factory on 14 January. A total of 9,749 MTA members under the command of Khun Sa, together with 6,004 heavy and small weapons, 25,452 grenades, 18,346 mines, 17,027 rounds of heavy arms, and other ammunition and the entire area under their operation have been transferred to the Tatmadaw. More MTA members of other areas are expected to follow suit." (NLM 1/19) Jan. 19: On Jan. 16, 127 MTA members from Loi Tum area of Monghsat Township returned to the legal fold, with 96 weapons. On Jan. 18, 188 more MTA members returned, with 191 weapons, plus 14 MTA members from the Loilam area with 14 arms. The total is now 10,078 MTA men "led by Khun Sa of Shan State (East) Thanlwin eastern sector" with 6,305 weapons, since Jan. 5. More are expected. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 21: On Jan. 15, 250 MTA members from Monghtaw/Monghta region in Mongton Township turned themselves in to the Tatmadaw with 123 weapons. The total is now 10,328 MTA members and 6,428 weapons including SAM-7 surface-to-air missiles. (NLM 1/22) Jan. 22: 61 MTA members with 60 weapons turned themselves in on Jan. 20 at Wansin village in Kehsi Mahsam Township; another 94 MTA members with 30 weapons turned themselves in Jan. 20 in Lwetun region. The total is now 10,483 men and 6,518 weapons. "Tatmadawmen attended to their requirements. In the afternoon, they returned to their homes by cars, arranged by Tatmadawmen, to reunite with their families. Tatmadawmen also looked into the requirements of MTA men who returned to the legal fold from regions in the east of Thanlwin River. the Tatmadaw arranged flights and cars for their return journey for family reunion." (NLM 1/23) Jan. 24: On Jan. 23 778 MTA members with 387 arms turned themselves in in Naunglai village, Tangyang Township, bringing the total to 11,261 men and 6,905 weapons. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 25: On Jan. 23 209 MTA members with 36 weapons turned themselves in at Loitong Camp in Monghsat Township, bringing the total for that camp to 1,719 with 1,129 weapons. The overall total is 11,470 MTA members plus 6,941 weapons. (NLM 1/ 26) Jan. 26: On Jan. 25, 57 MTA members with 51 weapons, from Namhsan and Kunhing Townships, turned themselves in, bringing the total to 11,527 MTA members with 6,992 weapons. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 27: On Jan. 25, 161 MTA members from Mongyai Township, with 96 weapons, turned themselves in, bringing the total to 11,688 and 7,088 weapons. (NLM 1/28) Jan. 28: On Jan. 26, 51 MTA members from Tanyang Township, with 34 weapons, turned themselves in, bringing the total to 11,729 and 7,112 weapons. Table Location MTA Men Weapons Homong 6,580 3,048 Loilam 1,981 2,194 Loitong 1,719 1,129 Loitwe 101 --- Mongtaw/Mongta 250 123 Namhsan/Kunhing 118 111 Tanyang/Mongyai 990 517 TOTALS 11,739 7,122 (NLM 1/29) Jan. 29: On Jan. 26, 150 MTA members from Mongtong Township, with 127 weapons, turned themselves in, bringing the total to 11,889 men and 7.249 weapons. (NLM 1/30) Jan. 30: On Jan. 25, 107 MTA members from Monghsat Township, with 25 weapons, turned themselves in. On Jan. 26, 41 MTA members from Loitum, with 6 weapons, and 24 MTA members from Monghsat Township, with 22 weapons, turned themselves in, bringing the total to 12,061 MTA members and 7,301 "assortments of arms and ammunitions." (NLM 1/31) Khin Nyunt Statement; Editorial Jan. 18: Speaking to the Myanmar Medical Association, SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt commented on the significance of Khun Sa's return to the legal fold: "He explained the Government's endeavours to eradicate abuse, trafficking and production of narcotic drugs, which is upsetting the doctors' efforts to uplift health and fitness of new generation youths and can deprive the youth of moral conduct. "Poppy cultivation in border areas of Myanmar began under colonial rule, he recalled, adding with the involvement of a big country, designated as the first master of democracy, Kuomintang stragglers, who infiltrated into Myanmar, encouraged and took part in poppy cultivation and drug trafficking, making the illegal business grow in magnitude. "Foreign masters, who had encouraged drug trafficking and production, have levelled accusations on Myanmar, which is not responsible for the growing drug trade, as soon as they face adverse effects of narcotic drugs, he said. "Those big nations also concoct fabrications, belittling and posting hindrances on Myanmar's anti-drug campaigns and blocking international aid, he said. "The world is aware that Myanmar has been launching anti-drug campaign in the entire country as a national task, he said, adding Tatmadawmen have been participating with good-will in this campaign, sacrificing life and limb. "When Tatmadaw began to launch attacks in the late 1995 along the border between Myanmar and Thailand where MTA troops led by Khun Sa were active, the armed group members under Khun Sa's command started to realize that they would gain nothing and would only suffer setbacks by engaging in military confrontation with the Tatmadaw, he said. "They also began to understand that drug trafficking had only adverse effects on mankind and realize the Government's sincere objectives and efforts to ensure national stability and development. "Beginning 5 January, MTA men have unconditionally returned to the legal fold bringing in large caches of arms and ammunition, he said. A total of 6,127 MTA men have returned to the legal fold to date bringing in 4,537 assortments of heavy and small arms. "All other nations will welcome with pleasure the total return to the legal fold of Khun Sa's MTA men, as it will help to reduce the illegal drug trade to a certain degree, he said. "During the past 30 years, the United States had spent millions of dollars with the aim of eradicating drug trafficking along Myanmar-Thailand border but the effectiveness can be gauged from the amount of drugs smuggled into the international drug market, he remarked. "Illegal drug trafficking in Loilam and Homong regions along Myanmar-Thai border almost came to a stop due to current endeavours of Myanmar, proving the nation's self-reliance efforts, he declared. "All should accept the fact that efforts made for total return to the legal fold by Khun Sa's MTA men practically saves the entire mankind from the danger of narcotic drugs, he stated. "With sympathy and goodwill, Myanmar welcomes and will continue to look after all members of Khun Sa's MTA who returned to the legal fold, he said. "Doctors should realize the true situation on Myanmar's efforts to eradicate drug trafficking and on some neocolonialist countries' attempts to encourage drug trafficking gangs from behind the scene, he noted ...." (NLM 1/19) Jan. 19: Editorial [full text]: Peace is blooming Peace is blooming in almost all areas of Myanmar, the latest to blossom forth being in the Homong area where the guns have fallen silent and brethren...have realized the State Law and Order Restoration Council's cetana and turned in their large arsenal of arms and ammo to the Tatmadaw. Moreover, they themselves have returned to the legal fold. This was the area associated with the notorious Golden Triangle where no peace, but opium poppies bloomed and the deadly derivatives of the drug flowed where the demand was. In our campaign to combat the menace of hard drugs, we talk about demand reduction and supply reduction. The natural law of supply and demand would suggest that where there is demand, there will be supply. In the first place, it must needs be asked who introduced the deadly drug to Myanmar. For reasons best known to themselves or maybe with the genuine desire to have citizens of this land enjoy the human right of addiction, they did it. Then, as history tells it, the end of World War II and the emergence of the People's Republic of China required Uncle Sam to move his wards, the Kuomintang stragglers, into our territory, specifically Shan State and see to the thriving of poppy cultivation. The CIA found it to their advantage to use the KMT as buffer to stem the flow of Communism, the way it saw fit. So, if the streets of New York had streaks of Myanmar grown heroin, as they allege, who, but they, are to blame, for they were responsible for the KMT incursion into Myanmar which we had to eject with the presentation of our case to the United Nations. Today, we count almost 10,000 of Khun Sa's men, who had come to realize the futility of their act, turn themselves in, together with a huge assortment of arms and ammo, including surface-to-air missiles. In the time of the State Law and Order Restoration Council, we count 15 armed groups coming to the embrace of the Tatmadaw. Khun Sa's men, who had abandoned what they were up to, have proved they too can come to terms with reality. After all, they are our brethren and they deserve the right of choice, of forsaking what was wrong and taking up what is right. Today, as we welcome the MTA men to our embrace, we must resolve to work together to rid the region of the root of that evil, the menace of hard drugs. By what has been achieved, we are giving humanity a breath of fresh air, life that will eventually be free of hard drugs to say the least. GOVERNMENT Independence Day Message Jan. 4: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe issued the following Message to the 48th Anniversary Independence Day Ceremony [full text]: On this auspicious 48th Anniversary Independence Day of the Union of Myanmar, I cordially and respectfully greet the people of all national races residing in the country. Our Union of Myanmar had stood as a sovereign nation in the world for thousands of years, and the colonialists encroached upon and enslaved the nation. The national brethren, with strong patriotism, resorted to the use of force or otherwise and valiantly fought with whatever weapons they could lay their hands on, against the colonialist aggression and occupation. The patriotic forces from among the national races such as the Kachin, the Kayah, the Kayin, the Chin, the Bamar, the Mon, the Rakhine and the Shan who had taken part in the anti-colonialist and national liberation struggles were put on record in the annals of our history. Similarly, members of the Tatmadaw, the offspring of the national races, who have fought many battles with valour risking their lives in defence of independence, the service personnel and people should also be placed on record for their spirit of sacrifice. The spirit of safeguarding independence, in addition to the love for national independence, has already been firm and strong among the citizens of Myanmar. We are dutybound to make efforts to hand this spirit down to our descendants at present and in future as well. We, all the people of national races, must always try, on self-reliance basis, to enable Myanmar Naing-Ngan to stand tall among the world nations as an independent nation and perpetuate its sovereignty. This is the national duty to be discharged by all the people of the Union to always protect and defend the nation in cooperation. Moreover, all the national races are dutybound to continue to ensure national solidarity, stability, community peace and the rule of law and order already secured more complete and firm; and at the same time all the people are to deter, keeping patriotic and nationalist spirit ever alive and dynamic, all attempts, instigations, schemes and incitements to disturb peace and stability in the country. When we review the historic events which we have experienced we will see that all the citizens of the Union have always been able to win victories against all kinds of enemies inside and outside the country who were attempting to cause disintegration of the country, home to the people born in this land residing together either in times of prosperity or adversity. And there have been instances in which every case of damage has been ameliorated. During the time of the State Law and Order Restoration Council which has emerged according to the historical needs of the nation, firmer foundations have been established and allround development has been achieved in the nation's political, economic, social, education and health spheres with public cooperation. This, all can see. It is necessary for the people of national races to make all efforts and play whatever role they can to keep the present rate of allround development growing unhindered. With such efforts, Myanmar, which is desirous of maintaining friendly relations with the world nations based on equality and steadfastly practising the independent and active foreign policy, will be able to always stand tall among the family of nations as a peaceful, developed and modern nation. The government has been implementing construction projects of schools, bridges, hospitals, dispensaries, electric power, communications, irrigation networks etc. with added momentum for the development of border areas and national brethren in their long-term interests utilizing substantial funds, manpower and investment. At present 15 armed groups, after realizing the genuine goodwill of the government, have returned to the legal fold and are now implementing construction projects together with the public. The National Convention is deliberating the basic principles for the emergence of a new State Constitution which will suit the wishes and aspirations of the people of the Union and which will enable them to enjoy the rights they are entitled to and bring about their social development; it is doing so to ensure smoothness and success of different stages of its undertakings in accord with its six objectives. It has already laid down the chapter headings of the constitution and the principles to serve as bases in formulating the fundamental principles of the State and is discussing in detail the main chapters such as The Legislature, The Executive and The Judiciary. All the citizens are responsible for extending allout support for the emergence of an enduring constitution in accord with the six objectives of the National Convention. Based on favourable conditions already attained, the State Law and Order Restoration Council which is leading the State will carry on exerting strenuous efforts for further development and emergence of the following constructive activities: (a) constantly safeguarding and upholding Our Three Main National Causes -- non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national solidarity and perpetuation of sovereignty; (b) ensuring prevalence of rule of law and community peace and tranquillity, bringing about secure and smooth transportation and easing the food, clothing and shelter needs of the people; (c) laying emphasis on tasks for development of all national races in Myanmar Naing-Ngan. Union Solidarity and Development Association, which will translate 'morale, discipline, solidarity and unity' into action for perpetuation and consolidation of the Union of Myanmar, has been formed for over two years with five noble aims and the Annual General Meetings have been successfully held. The association is actively organizing rallies and holding discussions across the length and breadth of the country to express support for the success of the National Convention, currently in session. It is acting thus to transfer good groundwork, which will set our mind to peace in any Union affair in the long run, to new generations. At present, the Union of Myanmar has achieved marked progress and favourable conditions in international relations, cooperation with nations in the region, cooperation with international organizations including the United Nations and foreign trade. Internally, it is also needed to make sustained efforts for allround development while maintaining and promoting progressing conditions in agricultural-based production and trade, services and transport sectors. It is also important on the other hand for us to safeguard the nation on constant vigil, defending and preventing it against internal and external threats and interferences as a national duty. With this, we will have to constantly bear in mind the true concept that 'the strength of a nation lies within for perpetual, consolidated existence of the State as a modern, developed and peaceful nation'. It is essential for the nationals to continue their cooperation and participation in endeavours for perpetuation of the nation, taking the leadership of the State and drawing lessons from a bitter historical course which was overwhelmed with the will to live under foreign influence and rely on outside powers. Therefore, I urge the entire mass of the national people to safeguard, defend and build the independent, sovereign nation and conceive without fail and implement with zeal, perseverance, strength and conscience the national objectives for the 48th Anniversary Independence Day: (1) the entire mass of the national people always to join hands and strive together for perpetuity of the State's independence and sovereignty; (2) the entire mass of the national people to strive unitedly with might and main for emergence of an enduring Constitution and building of a new modern developed nation; (3) the entire mass of the national people to strive allround for uplift of dynamism of patriotic spirit and safeguarding of national character; (4) successful implementation of the four political objectives, the four economic objectives and the four social objectives for building of a new modern developed nation. (NLM 1/4) Independence Day Awards Jan. 4: State Law and Order Restoration Council Notification No. 1/96 conferred titles on the Sangha, nuns, and laity [names]: Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Title: 1 Agga Maha Pandita Title: 16 (incl. 1 from Sri Lanka) Agga Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Title: 15 incl. 2 nuns) Maha Ganthavacaka Pandita Title: 16 (incl. 3 nuns) Cula Ganthavacaka Pandita Title: 11 (incl. 2 nuns) Agga Maha Kammathanacariya Title: 3 Maha Kammathanacariya Title: 1 Dhamma Kathika Bahujana Hitadhara Title: 2 Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotika Title: 1 Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Title: 13 (incl. 1 from abroad) (NLM 1/4) Maha Saddhama Jotikadhaja Title: 6 Saddhama Jotikadhaja Title: 3 Siri Sudhamma Manijotadhara Title: 2 Thiha Sudhamma Manijotadhara Title: 1 Sudhamma Manijotadhara Title: 1 Siri Sudhamma Singi Title: 1 Thiha Sudhamma Singi Title: 1 (NLM 1/5) Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 2/96 conferred titles and medals of commendation as follows [names]: Excellent Performance in Industrial Field of the Economy: Medal (First Class): 2 Medal (Second Class): 17 Medal (Third Class): 35 Excellent Performance in Administrative Field: Medal (First Class): 10 (NLM 1/4) Medal (Second Class): 13 Medal (Third Class): 40 Excellent Performance in Social Field: Medal (First Class): 14 Medal (Second Class): 12 (NLM 1/5) Medal (Third Class): 133 Ye Thura Medal: 5 Ye Bala Medal: 7 Ye Thurein Medal: 9 Ye Kyaw Swa Medal: 1 Ye Kyaw Thu Medal: 2 (NLM 1/6) Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 3/96 conferred the Military Good Service Medal on 2,536 soldiers (incl. 77 veterans). Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 4/96 conferred the Good Public Service Medal on 11,821 people (incl. 1,404 retired). Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 5/96 conferred the Good MPF Service Medal on 109 policemen (incl. 11 retired). Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 6/96 conferred the MPF Service Medal on 609 policemen (incl. 4 retired). Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 7/96 conferred the Public Service Medal on 22,615 people (incl. 500 retired). It conferred the Law and Order and the Rule of Law Medal on 34,188 (incl. 538 retired). Jan. 4: SLORC Notification No. 8/96 conferred the MPF Joint Service Medal on 631 policemen (incl. 6 retired). Foreign Messages of Felicitation Jan. 4: Messages of congratulations on Independent Day were received from the following [with texts]: Chiefs of State: China; Korea; Thailand; India; Pakistan; Maldives; Germany; Netherlands; Iraq; Poland; Slovak Republic; Turkey; Cuba (NLM 1/4); Bangladesh; Laos; Sri Lanka; Great Britain; Australia; Russia; Yugoslavia; Italy; Bulgaria; Ghana; Nigeria (NLM 1/5); Israel; Malaysia; Philippines (NLM 1/6); Indonesia; Singapore; Vietnam; Egypt; Algeria (NLM 1/7); Bhutan; France (NLM 1/8); Canada (NLM 1/9); Romania; Portugal; UN Secretary-General; Nepal (NLM 1/ 10); Albania; Hungary; Brazil; Brunei Darussalam (NLM 1/11); Cambodia (NLM 1/13); Kuwait; Mauritius; Cyprus; Guinea; South Africa (NLM 1/14). Chiefs of Government: Japan; China; Pakistan; Slovak Republic (NLM 1/4); Thailand; Laos; Bangladesh; Malaysia (NLM 1/6); Singapore; Vietnam (NLM 1/7). Foreign Ministers (to Minister for Foreign Affairs U Ohn Gyaw): Maldives; Cuba; Slovak Republic (NLM 1/4); China; Thailand; Laos; Japan; Sri Lanka (NLM 1/5); Malaysia; Philippines; Indonesia; Singapore; Algeria; Yugoslavia (NLM 1/6); Vietnam; Iran; FAO Director-General (NLM 1/9); Libya; Cambodia (NLM 1/10). Independence Day Ceremonies Jan. 4: The traditional flag-raising ceremony was held at 4.20 am in the People's Square, in honor of the four national objectives prescribed by SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe. Yangon Division LORC Chairman Brig-Gen. Khin Maung Than presided. Similar ceremonies were held throughout Myanmar. SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt distributed prizes at the 1996 Independence Day Essay and Poetry Competitions and TV Quiz. SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe presided over the Independence Day reception and dinner. attended by officials, foreign and international agency diplomats, etc. [photographs show the Ambassadors and Charge d'Affaires from Russia {currently Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Yangon}, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Pakistan]. (NLM 1/5) Development Affairs Department Jan. 12: Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint addressed the conclusion of Course No. 1/95 [sic] for Engineers and Clerical Staff of Township Development Committees. He noted that the Development Affairs Department (DAD) was created Jan. 30, 1994 with 241 officers and 11,235 service personnel at township level offices. At present there are 286 Committees at 10 levels in the 14 State/Divisions, with a total strength of 363 officers and 16,348 service personnel, and expansion is planned. "He stressed the need to be systematic in collecting taxes, in keeping records and in dealing financial matters, saying action will be taken against those breaching the financial rules. DAD personnel should avoid acts which will bring disgrace to the nation and their department, should show sincerity among themselves and should be patriotic and dutiful, he said. He urged them to strive for cleanliness and development of the towns and villages as more tourists are expected to visit the country this year." (NLM 1/13) Union Day Jan. 22: SLORC Notification No. 9/96 of Jan. 22, 1996, Formation of Central Committee for Observance of the 49th Anniversary Union Day, establishes a committee as follows: Chairman: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt Vice Chairman: SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo Members: 23 people [named], including many cabinet ministers. The National Objectives of the observance are: -- all the national races to make concerted efforts for unity of the entire mass of the people -- to strive for permanent unity and ever living together of all the national races -- all the national races to work together with the Tatmadaw for full realization of the political, economic and social objectives of the State -- all the national races to united their forces for the emergence of the State Constitution -- all the national races to always join hands for safeguarding the independence of the State and perpetuation of sovereignty. (NLM 1/23) Narcotics Regulations Jan. 24: Ministry of Home Affairs, Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Notification No. 1/96 of Jan. 24 [full text in NLM] establishes a Property Examination Committee under the provisions of Section 7, sub-paragraph (k), Chapter 4 of the 1993 Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law. It will be chaired by the Deputy Director-General of the Myanma Police Force, with 11 ex-officio members from various agencies. Its duties are to identify, obtain, protect, and make determinations about property, real or otherwise, involved in narcotics cases. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 25: Ministry of Health Notification of Jan. 2 designated the following medicines as psychotropic substances under the Narcotic Drug and Psychotropic Substances Law: 1. Etryptamine 2. Methcathinone 3. Zipeprol 4. Aminorex 5. Brotizolam 6. Mesocarb 7. Flunitrazepan (NLM 1/26) New Deputy Minister & Vice-Mayor Jan. 25: SLORC Law No. 1/96 of Jan. 25, Law Amending the City of Yangon Development Law, reads [full text]: 1. This Law shall be called the Law Amending the City of Yangon Development Law. 2. After the world "the Chairman" contained in Section 4 of the City of Yangon Development Law, the word "the Vice-Chairman" shall be inserted. 3. Section 5 of the City of Yangon Development Law shall be substituted by the following -- 5. The Chairman of the Committee is the Mayor of Yangon and the Vice-Chairman of the Committee is the Vice-Mayor of Yangon. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 25: SLORC Notification No. 10/96 of Jan. 25, Appointment of Deputy Minister, names Col. Maung Par as Deputy Minister and assigns duties to him as Vice-Chairman of the Yangon City Development Committee (Vice-Mayor of Yangon) under Section 4 of the City of Yangon Development Law. (NLM 1/26) ECONOMIC Economic Articles Jan. 11: New historical era has dawned, by Htay Aung (Travels & Tours). [Opening of Visit Myanmar Year. Tourist visas are now issued for four weeks, and can be extended another four weeks; diplomatic missions can issue visas in 48 hours, or arrange for delivery on arrival; the fee has been reduced from $18 to $10. Entry points have been established in Bagan, Mandalay, Heho and border points. Each individual tourist may exchange US$ 300; the Foreign Exchange Certificate (FEC) has been adopted, equal to the US dollar. ["Generally, the places designated for tourists to visit are Myitkyina, Putao and Bhamo in Kachin State, Lashio, Kengtung and Tachilek in Shan State, Loikaw in Kayah State, Kalay, Kalaywa and Hakha in Chin State, Ngapali, Sittway, Mrauk-U and Kanthaya in Rahkine State, Hpa-an in Kayin State, Mawlamyine, Thanbyuzayat and Kyaiktiyo in Mon State, Myeik, Dawei and Kawthoung in Taninthayi Division and Pathein, Chaungtha and Mawtinsun in Ayeyawady Division." ["Within a period of three years, the hotel projects implemented with foreign investments increased to 32. They include Nawarat, Summit Parkview, Central Floating, Baiyoke Kandawgyi and Thuhtaykyun Hotels which were opened. Efforts are being made to be able to open Sedona, Traders, Royal Lake and Sofitel Hotels in time by carrying out the construction work round-the-clock with day and night shifts. The total investments for all the hotels amounts to 1,000 million US dollars and compared to the value of investments of the State, the ratio is three to one and the second highest investment of the country.... Up to the end of November, 1995, there are altogether 298 hotels, motels and inns with about 5,746 rooms.... ["In 1990, only over 7,000 tourists visited Myanmar Naing-Ngan through Yangon. The number increased to over 26,000 in fiscal 1992-93, to over 61,000 in fiscal 1993-94 and to nearly 100,000 last year.... It is expected that the number will increase to 150,000 to about 200,000 this year.... If aircraft from far and near can land easily the number of tourists can increase to millions .... The number of passengers now has increased to 7,868 a week. It can increase to about 4 million a year...."] Jan. 15: Sixteenth Session of the Asia-Pacific Forestry Commission, by Zaw Gyi (Lauk-Sauk). [15th session, in 1993, was in Sri Lanka. 26 countries are expected to participate: Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Portugal, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United States of America, and Vietnam. Britain is invited as an observer. 19 have showed up.] Trade Fairs Jan. 5: The Myanmar Trade Fair 96 was previewed by SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, and by Daw Kyaing Kyaing. 17 Yunnan Companies are displaying 130 products in 26 booths. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 6: Special 4-page advertising supplement commemorating the Fair opening, with a brief message from Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 6: The Trade Fair was formally opened in the presence of SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi opened the fair with a speech [text in NLM], in which he said the Fair had five objectives: (1) to promote foreign trade; (2) to encourage export of value-added products (3) to develop domestic industry gearing towards import substitutions; (4) to induce foreign investments for mutual benefits; (5) to further develop and strengthen economic and trade relations with all the countries. The fair includes six Myanmar [government] economic organizations, six joint-ventures, 12 cooperatives, and 88 private companies with 154 booths, "displaying agricultural products, textiles, machinery, leather products, forest products, furniture, handicrafts, lacquerware, plastic products, personal and household commodities, metals, gems and jewellery and foodstuff." 180 companies from 15 foreign countries (China, Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Britain, and the United States) are participating with 286 booths, "displaying various products including motorcars." The fair will be open until Jan. 14. Admission is K 20 for the ground floor, and K 50 for the first, second and third floors. The fashion show will be held until Jan. 14, with admission at K 100. (NLM 1/7) [Daily reports on attendance, etc.] Jan. 14: The Fair concluded with an address by Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi. There were over 150,000 foreign and local visitors, more than in 1995. Results: Sales contracts worth US$ 35 million; Memoranda of Understanding for sales of US$ 49 million; over-the-counter sales US$ 1.5 million and K 68 million. Total transactions: US$ 85 million and K 68 million. (NLM 1/15) Jan. 19 [half page advertisement]: The first Myanmar-Japan Health Expo 1996 will be held Jan. 23-26 at the Tatmadaw Convention Hall, cosponsored by the Ministry of Health and Japan Medical Products International Trade Association (JAMPITA), Tokyo. Other organizers: Kinsho-Mataichi Corp., Tokyo; Nissei Engineering, Inc., Tokyo. (NLM 1/19) // Jan. 23: The Expo opened; speakers included Deputy Minister for Health Col. Than Zin and Mr. Kenichi Matsumoto of JAMPITA. It will last until Jan. 26. "Operational, obstetric and gynecological, clinical and laboratory equipment produced by various Japanese companies and other modern equipment are on display." (NLM 1/24) // Jan. 26: Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt visited the Expo. (NLM 1/27) Jan. 18: The Industrial Fair and Horticultural Show of Upper Myanmar opened in Mandalay, and was addressed by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo. There are over 200 industrial booths of entrepreneurs in Mandalay, Sagaing, and Magway Divisions and Mon State, including 49 from various ministries. The fair will last until Jan. 27. (NLM 1/19) // Jan. 19: A two-day Seminar in Industrial Development began Jan. 18, with officials and 250 industrial entrepreneurs of Mandalay, Meiktila, Myingyan, Sagaing, Monywa, Magway, Yenanggyaung, Yangon, and Mawlamyine zones. (NLM 1/20) // Jan. 20: The fair continued. (NLM 1/21) // Jan. 21: The fair continued. (NLM 1/22) // Jan. 24: The fair continued. (NLM 1/25) // Jan. 25: The fair continued. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 28: A dinner was held to mark the end of the Fair, attended by SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo and others. (NLM 1/29) Project Inaugurations Jan. 5: A 6.1 mile double-tracked rail segment opened between Myohaung and Myitnge. 255 miles of the 385 Yangon-Mandalay railroad have now been double-tracked. (NLM 1/6) Jan 8: The 128-mile Momeik-Mabein-Bhamo motor road was inaugurated Jan. 4. (NLM 1/ 9) Jan. 12: Minister for Transport Lt-Gen. Thein Win inspected six double-decker riverboats delivered by the Yunnan Machinery Import and Export Corporation; the first consignment of 30 vessels worth $40 million under the second agreement between Inland Water Transport and YMIEC. The Danyawady No. 1, Danyawady No. 2, Thallawady No. 1, Thallawady No. 2, Pyigyidagon No. 1, and Pyigyidagon No. 2 will operate along the Chindwin and upper Ayayawady rivers and in Rakhine State. 23 of the vessels are being built in China, and other in Myanmar. (NLM 1/13) Business Openings Jan. 3: The Vochelle Chocolate House was opened by the Golden Lion Store of Silver Mountain Co. Ltd. at 102A Dhamma Zedi Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. It will sell "all kinds of chocolates made in Malaysia." (NLM 1/4) Jan. 5: A Golf Driving Range was opened at the Mya Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel. (NLM 1/ 6) Jan. 16: The Seiko Showroom and Service Center, run by Myanmar Thakral Ltd., was opened at 1004/112 Anawrahta St., Kyauktada Township, Yangon, in the presence of Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba and of Director Mr. Rikhi Thakral of the Thakral Group of Companies, Managing Director Mr. M. Hayashi, and other officials of Seiko Hong Kong. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 16: Guinness Stout Beer, produced by Guinness Brewing Worldwide Ltd. of London, was introduced on Jan. 10, jointly sponsored by DP Inter-trade Pte. Ltd. of Singapore and Tet Nay Co. Ltd. of Myanmar. Minister for Culture Brig-Gen. Thaung Myint and Regional Manager Mr. Andrew G. Clarte [sic] of Guinness Stout Asia Pacific Office (Singapore) spoke. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 20: The Win Star Optical Co. Ltd. Salesroom opened at 186/188 Shwebontha St., Pabedan Township. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 23: Bursa Myanmar Tobacco Co. Ltd. exported its first Sampoerna brand cigarettes. Vice-Chairman U Khin Shwe and Managing Director Mr. Bambang Sulistyo said the factory, leased from the Ministry of Industry-1, has 436 employees working in two shifts. Eight machines can produce 4,000 cigarettes per minute. 36 containers of cigarettes are being exported to Malaysia for the first time; annual exports will be 700 containers. 90% of production is for export; 10% for distribution in Myanmar. (NLM 1/24) Jan. 24: The Sedona Hotel, "under construction with cent-per-cent financing by Straits Greenfield Ltd. of Singapore, at the corner of Kaba Aye Pagoda Road and No. 1 Industrial Street, Yangon, held its "topping-off ceremony." It was attended by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt and other officials, visiting Singapore officials Minister of Trade and Industry Mr. Yeo Cheow Tong and Minister of Communication Mr. Mah Bow Tan, Chairman Mr. Lim Chee Onn of Straits Steamship Land Ltd. Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba spoke, saying inter alia: "I am quite delighted to mention here that Sedona Hotel project with its initial investment of US$ 35 million.... Presently, a review has been made on the estimate cost of the Budget for the construction of this Yangon Sedona hotel upon which the revised budget appears US$ 85 million. Straits Steamship Land Co. Ltd. even went further...by signing another contract in September 1995, for the construction of another Sedona hotel in Mandalay with the investment of another US$ 35 million...." 300 rooms are due to open in 1996, and total investment is estimated at $98 million. The Hotel will employ 600 people, with a base rate of at least K 4,000 per month. The local economy will also benefit from food purchases; even a 250-room hotel, 60% full, spends K 24 million per year for food. The 34 hotel projects now under way, with 8,632 rooms, will spend K 828.6 million on food. (NLM 1/25) Jan. 24: The Myanmar Fair Price Supermarket opened, attended by visiting Singapore officials [see item above], Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi and other Myanmar officials, and Chairman Mr. S. Chandra Das of Singapore National Trade Union Cooperatives Fair Price Ltd. [see also under Advertisements, below] (NLM 1/25) Jan. 27: The 56-room Summer Palace Hotel, owned by Myanmar nationals U Kyi Win and Daw Tin Tin Yi, opened at 437 Pyay Road, Kamayut Township, Yangon; Minister for Hotels and Tourism Lt-Gen. Kyaw Ba attended. (NLM 1/28) Jan. 27: The Top Club at the Central Hotel was opened on Jan. 25 by Chairman Brig-Gen. Than Oo of the Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Inc. Club Director Mr. Michael Tan extended greetings. (NLM 1/28) Advertisements Jan. 1: Half page advertisement for ACE Data Systems, Quality Application Software. Jan. 5: Full page advertisement of Canon copiers and business machines, distributed in Myanmar by Accel Marketing Limited, 126 Sule Pagoda Road. Jan. 12: Half page advertisement for Aung Yadanar Garden housing project: "A few units still for sale" "Ready to Move in!". Jan. 13: Half page advertisement of JVC (Victor Company of Japan, Ltd.) TVs, VCRs, and stereos sold by Ambur International Co. Ltd. Jan. 16: Full page advertisement for the new Seiko Showroom of Myanmar Thakral Ltd., at 104-112 Anawrahta Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon. Tel: 74950. H/P: 09-21064. Jan. 24: Two-page display advertisement for opening of the Myanmar Fair Price Yangon Supermarket, at Gate No. 3, Yangon Command, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Yangon, "graced by" Minister for Trade Lt-Gen. Tun Kyi and Singapore Minister of Trade and Industry Mr. Yeo Cheow Tong, and "with compliments from" Chairman Brig-Gen. Than Oo of Myanmar Economic Holdings and Chairman Mr. S. Chandra Das of NTUC Fairprice. Slogans: Value for Money; Freshness Guarantee; Service Excellence. Values advertised (all prices in Foreign Exchange Certificates): Persile Detergent Powder FEC 8.40; Duck Brand Vegetable Oil FEC 1.00; Delmonte Pineapple Juice FEC 1.80; Danpo Whole Chicken FEC 3.00; NTUC Fairprice Tomato Ketchup FEC 0.80; Tang Instant Orange FEC 4.00. Also coupons for Vochelle Chocolates Assortment (Buy One Get One FREE); Carlsberg Beer FEC 13.20; Bulla Yogurt FEC 1.10; Linda Corn Oil FEC 4.10; Scottex Towels FEC 4.20; Meadow Gold Ice Cream FEC 3.70; Twin Valley UHT Milk FEC 1.00. Features specials: Tibaldi Range of Packaged Meats (Hungarian Salami; Milano Salami; Pepperoni Salami; Mortadella). King Island Range of Gourmet Cheese & Dairy Products (Cape Wickham Double Brie; Phoques Cove Camembert; Surprise Bay Matured Cheddar; Bass Strait Blue; South Cape Tomme Fraiche Herb/Garlic; South Cape Tomme Fraiche Pepper; Admiralty Blue Stilton; King Island Cream Fraiche). Steak & Salmon (Australian T. Bone Steak; New Zealand Legs of Lamb; New Zealand Lamb Chops; New Zealand Striploin; Norwegian Smoked Salmon). "Major Credit Cards & Kyats are also accepted." Jan. 26: Full page advertisement for Sedona Hotel, Yangon, calling on qualified persons to apply for positions in a variety of skilled categories. Jan. 27: Half page advertisement for First Private Bank Ltd. (Public Company), announcing the opening of its New Head Office (619/621 Merchant Street, Yangon) and Monywa Branch. =========================================== FOR MONITORING Your * TV commercials and printed ads * marketing product/manufacture * consumer behavior. And for * any visual survey and research on Myanmar market call MYANMAR MONITOR a professional monitoring service by Kyaw Hlaing, M.A. (Marketing) Ph: 01-87889; 01-84981; 01-88050; 01-88012. Fax: 01-84981. WE GIVE YOU A VISION (NLM 1/21) =========================================== Foreign Investment Projects Jan. 6: The Public Works of the Ministry of Construction, represented by Managing Director U Tint Swe, and Yunnan Machinery Export and Import Corporation of China, represented by President Mr. Wu Wen Kuan, signed contracts for the purchase of "heavy equipment valued at $8,724,000 on three instalments including a two-year grace period." Vice-Governor Mr. Liu Jin of Yunnan Province and various Myanmar officials attended. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 11: An Agreement for Mineral Prospecting, Mineral Exploration and Feasibility Study, for developing gold resources in Block 15, Maubin area, was signed between Sum Cheong Exploration Ltd. of Singapore, represented by Vice-Chairman Mr. Wee Ah Kee and the Department of Geological Survey and Mineral Exploration (DGSME), represented by Director-General U Soe Myint. Minister for Mines Lt-Gen. Kyaw Min pointed out that this was "the last agreement signing ceremony of the first round competitive biddings." (NLM 1/12) Jan. 22: A contract was signed between Myanma Posts and Telecommunications and Ericsson Australia Pte. Ltd., represented by Vice President Mr. James Gerard Rodgers, for installation of a 4,000 cellular telephone system. "According to the new system, cellular telephones of Yangon and Mandalay can be used in both." (NLM 1/23) Jan. 26: Regional Manager Mr. Chin Hon Cheng of Hewlett-Packard of Singapore named Myanmar Computer Systems Pte. Ltd., represented by Managing Director Mr. Herman Ho, as its authorized wholesaler for computer equipment. (NLM 1/27) Business Courses Jan. 25: Export and Import Procedure Course No. 4 concluded at the Ministry of Trade, with Deputy Minister for Trade U Aung Thaung noting that 311 entrepreneurs had attended the first four courses. 80 people had attended the last five-week course. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 30: Tourist Guide Basic Course No. 1/96, sponsored by the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism, opened. 353 trainees are attending the 11-week course. (NLM 1/31) Banking Jan. 16: On Jan. 8, the government authorized establishment of the Myanma Industrial Development Bank, which "will be established with a capital of two billion kyats or two million shares each valued at K 1,000." On the first day, 7,344 shares were sold. (NLM 1/17) // Jan. 22: 30,362 shares have been sold. (NLM 1/23) // Jan. 23: 36,800 shares have been sold. (NLM 1/24) // Jan. 30: "The Myanmar Industrial Development has sold nine million kyats worth of shares till today after it fixed the value of shares on 25 January." (NLM 1/31) Insurance Jan. 12: The Mitsui Marine and Fire Insurance Co. Ltd. of Japan opened a representative office, attended by Managing Director Mr. Fumio Suzuki Mitsui and Japanese Ambassador Mr. Yoichi Yamaguchi. Company representative U Khin Maung Win was introduced. Deputy Minister for Finance U Win Naing spoke, noting that Mitsui dates back to 1683 "when the Mitsui Exchange House, the forerunner of Sakura Bank, was founded" and that it now has "the strongest position in Asian countries.... Now, that Mitsui comes to Myanmar but the Law which regulates the private insurance companies is not yet come out and Mitsui can open just a general business representative office for general purposes. But it is good for Mitsui and Myanma Insurance, our national insurance company and the sole and singular insurance company so far, since it can make line of communication much easier and faster.... I have learned that many Japanese insurance companies are trying to open their representative offices here. We view it from the positive side because insurance is a many-splendoured thing which ought to be opened for all, subject to some certain restrictions and controls so that the market and the people's interest would not be jeopardized...." Jan. 24: The Yasuda Fire and Marine Insurance Co. opened a representative office, attended by Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin and by company Chairman Mr. Yasuo Goto. Established in 1887, Yasuda had opened an office in Yangon 38 years ago which was closed in 1964 when insurance companies were nationalized. (NLM 1/25) // Jan. 25: The Chairman called on Chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission Deputy Prime Minister Vice-Adm. Maung Maung Khin. (NLM 1/26) Tourism Dec. 31: Tourists from the ms Silver Cloud toured Myanmar; 51 outside Yangon, 48 in Yangon, and 39 in Bagan. (NLM 1/1) // Jan. 1: The 267 tourists departed with the ship. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 9: The cruiseliner mv Seabourn Pride with 89 tourists arrived, sponsored by Seabourn Cruise Line of the United States. They will visit Yangon Jan. 10-11. (NLM 1/10) // Jan. 10: They visited sights in Yangon. (NLM 1/10) // Jan. 11: The ship departed. (NLM 1/12) Jan. 18: 171 tourists (including 158 Americans) arrived on the mv Song of Flower of Raddisson Sevenseas Cruise of the USA and toured Yangon. (NLM 1/19) // Jan. 19: 132 tourists arrived by chartered plane to join the ship, while the first group departed by air. (NLM 1/20) // Jan. 20: 153 tourists departed on the ship. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 21: 49 tourists (45 of them British) arrived on the luxury liner ms Caledonian Star; they will visit sights in Yangon and then fly on to Bangkok; the tour is arranged by EPG Travel Co. Ltd. (NLM 1/22) // Jan. 23: 24 tourists from the ship flew on to Thailand on Jan. 22; 22 flew to Bagan. 55 arrived from Thailand, and 36 returned from Bagan. (NLM 1/24) Economic Organizations Jan. 9: The Pharmacists Cooperative Limited was formed in Yangon, to "produce and distribute quality medicines and medical equipment to the customers and import medicines and medical stores." The 15, member cooperative has K 2 million in capital divided into 200 K 10,000 shares. Officers are: Chairman: U Po Kya Vice-chairmen: U Zaw Win, U Thit Managing Director: U Soe Kyi Secretary: Daw Mi Mi Mya Two directors and two auditors. (NLM 1/10) Jade Sale Dec. 31: 189 lots of jade were sold at auction for US$ 1,784,021, and jade jewellery and figurines at fixed prices for US$ 105,818. (NLM 1/1) Jan. 5: The Myanmar Gems Enterprise will sell 120 jade lots by competitive bidding at a floor price of K 12,763,500. 167 sealed bids have been received, and will be scrutinized on Jan. 7. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 6: 259 local dealers submitted tenders for jade figurines; they will be opened on Jan. 7. (NLM 1/7) Agriculture Jan. 1: 254,000 tons, out of 335,000 tons ordered, of foreign fertilizer has arrived, and are being unloaded in Yangon from the mv Mytishi, mv Mezhdurechensk, and mv Vissarion Belinsky. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 21: 5,000 tons of sugar were exported to Sri Lanka on the mv Run Zhou. Another 5,000 tons is expected leave soon. (NLM 1/22) Company Blacklisted Jan. 16: Ministry of National Planning and Economic Development Minister's Office Press Communique No. 7/96 of Jan. 12, 1996, Taking action against the company that has committed economic malpractices [full text]: The undermentioned company and person are "blacklisted" with effect from the date of this Press Communique as they have carried out economic activities not permitted by the Government and have refrained from carrying out those activities mentioned in the company's memorandum of association. Genstar International Company Limited No. 138, 46th Street, Botataung Township Yangon Company Registration No. 60.93-94 Dated: 23-4-93. U Tin Win Managing Director 12/Ma Ga Ta (Naing) 063806 No. 60, 125th Street Mingala Taungnyunt Township, Yangon. Sd/Brigadier-General Abel Minister Minister of National Planning and Economic Development The Government of the Union of Myanmar (NLM 1/17) Highway Projects Put to Bid Jan. 17: An invitation to tender calls for bids by Myanmar national private entrepreneurs to build the Yangon-Mandalay Union Highway (383 miles) within three years, partially or wholly. Builders will be allowed to collect tolls on the portions they build, as established by Public Works. The highway must be capable of carrying at least 40 tons, and bridges must have a capacity of 60 tons. Tenders are due by Feb. 29, 1996. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 20: An invitation to tender calls for bids by Myanmar national entrepreneurs to build the Lashio-Muse Union Highway (96 miles) within three years. It must carry 40 tons, and the bridges 60 tons. Tenders are due by Feb. 20, 1996. (NLM 1/20) Jan. 23: Details on Yangon-Mandalay Union Highway project. "It will be a new expressway along the new route to be constructed close to Bago Yoma. It will be divided into five sections -- Yangon-Nyaunglebin section, Nyaunglebin-Toungoo section, Toungoo-Pyinmana section, Pyinmama-Meiktila station, Meiktila-Mandalay section. Toll gates are to be set up at convenient places along the route and at entry or exit points of major towns to cover the construction costs...." (NLM 1/24) Jan. 27: At present the Ministry of Construction is building 80 highways and over 5,000 bridges, Minister for Construction Maj-Gen. Saw Tun told Public Works officials. (NLM 1/28) Gas Power Station Jan. 22: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe attended the commissioning of the Hlawga Natural Gas Power Station. Costing K 430 million, the project was undertaken by European Gas Turbines (GEC-Alsthom) of France, represented by Chairman M.Y. Raak and party, and completed in 10 months. The two turbines now installed will provide 66 megawatts to the Yangon and national power grids. A third turbine will be completed by Feb. 15. Myanmar's annual power consumption has been rising 15-20% per year. Mr. Raak 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 1/23) Inflation Jan. 30: Speaking to the four-monthly coordination meeting of the State Law and Order Restoration Council and State/Division LORCs, SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe, inter alia, discussed inflation: "He said the issue of inflation is inevitable since more and more has to be invested for national reconstruction. However, he said, the rate of inflation must not be out of control. Efforts should be made to bring down production costs in the respective economic sectors while exercising frugality in expending funds, he said, adding commodity prices will be stabilized and then fall when production, distribution and transport costs fall. [He] highlighted that efforts must be concentrated on controlling the inflation rate and stabilizing and bringing down commodity prices during the forthcoming five-year plan." (NLM 1/31) 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 104.84 100.47 98.27 1996 as of January 30 0.00 0.00 0.00 HEALTH Health Articles Jan. 24: Quality assurance programme in diagnostic radiology, by Khin Maung Tin (Radiation Health). [Procedures.] Jan. 25: National Immunizations Days (NIDS), by Dr. Aye Kyu. [Under this WHO programme, doses of OPV (oral polio vaccine) are given to all children in a given age group, usually 0-5, regardless of immunizations status, with a second round 4-6 weeks later. The idea is to interrupt the spread of the disease by catching everybody, including those missed by routine immunization programmes. Application of NIDs in Myanmar is as follows [full text]: 1. It will cover the whole country without sparing any place. Approximately 6.1 million children under 5 yr of age will be immunized with OPV. 2. It will start with OPV alone with total emphasis on polio eradication. 3. Next year on, other antigen shall be included. 4. In the second round of NIDS, Vitamin A supplement along with OPV to all children 6 months to 5 years old. Vitamin A 10,000 IU for 6 months to 1 year, 200,000 IU for 1-5 years. Second dose should be given in 6 months. 5. All children under 5 years will be included regardless of previous immunization status. 6. NIDs will take place in low polio transmission season. 7. 90% or more OPV immunization coverage is targeted not as a national average, but even in smallest immunization post. 8. Two round with 4 weeks interval will be conducted in 1996. The first round on 10 February 1996 and the second round on 10 March 1996. Immunization will be conducted one week ahead in special areas. 9. Immunization will be done at immunization posts in general but house-to-house immunization will be carried out when necessary. There will be 46,510 immunization posts; 8995 in urban and 37,515 in rural areas. 10. NIDs will start ahead in hard-to-reach areas with the intention to finish on the day of NID. 11. Serious attention to be paid on maintenance of cold chain throughout the process of NIDs at all places. 12. NIDs will be conducted with combined effort of the government, the community the internal as well as external agencies and all related sectors using social mobilization effectively. 13. All NIDs activities will be managed by central management committee and central task force at central with substantial support from Interagency Coordinating Committee. 14. Already established States/Divisions/ Township Supervisory Committees for achieving Mid-Decade Goal will take the responsibilities of NIDs at respective level. 15. Task Forces with heads of health department as chairman will be at State/ Division/District and Township levels. 16. NIDs committees will implement with the technical and managerial support of task forces at State/Division/District/Township levels.] Jan. 27: Myanmar without Polio, Target 2000, by Kyaw Soe Myint. [Cooperation from all needed to attain it.] Dental Health Jan. 11: Minister for Health Vice-Adm. Than Nyunt discussed changes in the health infrastructure to the 16th Myanmar Dental Conference at the Institute of Dental Medicine, and summarized recent developments in oral health. "To review the present oral health situation of Myanmar the prevalence of caries is 66.34 percent, the prevalence of periodontal disease stand at 89.78 percent and 8 percent of all cancers are oral cancers.... In the oral health programme, under the National Health Plan, our objectives are to reduce the DMFT index of 12 year-old from 0.88 percent to 0.75 percent, to reduce the periodontal diseases of 35-44 year olds from 66 percent to 50 percent." 21 papers will be given at the four-day conference. (NLM 1/12) Polio Immunization Jan. 23: From Feb. 10-Mar. 10, all children under five in Yangon Division will be immunized against polio. A planning meeting was health. (NLM 1/24) [see also above, under Health Articles] Myanmar Medical Association Jan. 24: The Myanmar Medical Association elected new officers for the next two years: President: Prof. Dr. Ye Myint, replacing Prof. Daw Kyu Kyu Swe General Secretary: Dr. Kyaw Myint Naing Honorary Auditor: Daw Yi Yi Aung 29 members of the CEC. (NLM 1/25) SPORTS Sports Articles Jan. 23: Asian PGA, Myanmar Open Golf Championship, by Kyaw Soe Myint. [The tournament revisited. Prizes were -- First: Boonchu Ruangkit of Thailand ($24,225); Second: Jeff Senior of Australia ($16,695); Third: Myint Thaung of Myanmar ($9,300). Total prizes were US$ 150,000. Match described. Golf was introduced into Myanmar in 1887 with the Thayet Golf Course; the Yangon Golf Course was inaugurated in 1909, but was controlled by whites until well after independence. The first Myanmar President was elected in 1957, when the Myanmar Golf Federation was also formed.] Jan. 29: USDA Central Patron's Trophy Soccer and Volleyball Tournaments, by Kyaw Swe Aung. [Coming events sponsored by SLORC.] Myanmar Teams and Officials Jan. 8: Referees U Kyaw Kyaw (Motion Picture Enterprise), Sgt. Hla Htay (Yangon Division Police Force), Sgt. Hla Myint (304 Light Infantry Regiment), and L/cpl. Tin Tun (No. 1 Defence Industries) left for New Delhi to attend a Jan. 9-11 international referee course. (NLM 1/9) Foreign Teams, Coaches, etc. Jan. 1: Mr. Tracy Horsman of the Willesden Cycle Club presented a track cycle and parts to the Myanmar Cycling Federation. Twelve club members will ride from Yangon to Mandalay on Jan. 2-15, as part of a South-East Asian tour. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 1: 28 professional golfers arrived to participate in the Myanmar Open Championship Golf Tournament sponsored by the Asian Professional Golf Association (APGA), from Jan. 4-7 at the Yangon Golf Club, as part of the APGA Omega Tour. 120 golfers will take part in the $150,000 event. Tickets are K 200 each for the first two days; K 400 for the third day; and K 1,000 for the final day. (NLM 1/2) // Jan. 2: 17 more golfers arrived. A press conference was addressed by Myanmar Golf Federation President Brig-Gen. Win Hlaing, Myanmar PGA Secretary U Chan Han, and APGA Executive Director Mr. Ramlan Harun. (NLM 1/3) // Jan. 4: The tournament teed off with 82 participants from Myanmar (21), Thailand (15), India (6), Japan (6), Korea (5), Taiwan (5), USA (3), Scotland (3), Hong Kong (2), New Zealand (2), Philippines (2), Canada (1), South Africa (1), Wales (1), and Malaysia (1) [best scorers listed]. (NLM 1/5) // Jan. 5: The Tournament continued [best scorers listed]. 13 of the 82 players were disqualified. (NLM 1/6) // Jan. 6: The Tournament continued [scores] with 69 participants. (NLM 1/7) // Jan. 7: The Tournament concluded, with 69 golfers competing. First place was won by Boonchu Ruangkit of Thailand, and second was Jeff Senior of Australia, who tied at 293 strokes, with Boonchu winning a sudden-death play-off. The winner received the Trophy and US$ 24,225 plus a watch donated by Mr. Patrick Buteus of Omega Co. Third was Myint Thaung of Myanmar, who won US$ 9,300. Soe Soe won the amateur trophy. (NLM 1/8) Hole-in-One Jan. 11: U Kyaw Myint scored an ace Jan. 9 on the 154-yard Fifth Hole of the City Golf Resort. (NLM 1/12) CULTURAL Cultural and Scientific Articles Jan. 1: Paying homage to the First Enshrinement of the Buddha Tooth Relic Pagoda being built in Yangon, by Sein (Religious Affairs). [Progress report; first enshrinement will take place on Jan. 4, 1996.] Jan. 13: Patriotic spirit vitalized from the Great Square of Art, by Sun Ye. [January 9 "MTV programme" of five "Maha theme songs" at the Great Square of Art Studio (Maha Anupyinnya Yinbyin) that "portray the great, splendid Bagan of Myanmars, establishment of the nation by Myanmar heroes...and 'vigilance' of the forefathers by which the nation has stood tall and independent." They were based on Dr. Ma Tin Win's Yazawin Htehma Meinmatha (Womenfolk in History). "MTV images included a depiction of magnificent beauty of Bagan with the combination of skilful decoration and deft camera shots. It was a depiction of sword, spear and equestrian skills of ancient Myanmar heroes by the talented camera shots. Sounding of the military gongs and bugles, triangular brass gongs, hoofbeats and classes of swords and spears dubbed in the theme songs made the blood of the audience boil. Thunderous sounds of the military gongs and clarion calls of our forefathers in action in defence of the motherland, which sounded many more times than the actual audio-visual effects of modern equipment, were bursting out in my heart.... When I walked out...I saw {the Maha composers} them differently...heroes of the Great Square of Art who will staunchly ward off outside attempts in a bid to enslave the nation politically and encroach upon it musically."] Jan. 15: Another opportunity to pay obeisance to Buddha's Tooth Relic, by Tekkatho Tin Kha. [The relic, from China, will visit Myanmar again this year. During its 1994 visit, devotees contributed K 107 million in Yangon and K 5.4 million in Mandalay, plus almost 14,000 items of jewellery.] Jan. 17: The Sasana Flag (The sacred flag of Buddhists), by Ba Sein (Religious Affairs). [In 1980 fundamental rules were adopted concerning the description and use of the Sasana Flag, "which consists of the six illuminations of Divine Effulgence." Four sizes were prescribed: 9'x5', 4.5'x2.5', 27"x15", and 9"x5". It must be displayed with the deep blue stripe at the hoist, and the deep blue part of the multi-color part upmost. Rules (similar to flag rules for national flags) are prescribed for its display; no flag may be flown above it, and it may not be used for advertising or non-religious purposes.] Jan. 22: Welcome and Congratulate the 14th Congregation of the Sangha of All Shwekyin Nikaya Orders, by Ba Sein (Religious Affairs). ["The different name of the nine official sects of the Sangha in the Union of Myanmar are as follows: -- 1. Suddhamma Sect 2. Shwekyin Sect 3. Dhammunu Dhamma Mahadwara Nikaya Sect 4. Dhammavinayanulomamuladwara Nikaya Sect 5. Anaukchaung Dwara Sect 6. Veluvan Nikaya Sect 7. Catubommika Mahasatipathan Ngettwin Sect 8. Gannavimotti Kuto Sect 9. Dhammayotti Nikaya Mahayin Sect." The Shwekyin Sect is the second largest of the official sects, after the Suddhamma Sect. It holds its Congregation every three years. The 14th will be "grandly held" Feb. 1-2, 1996, at Shwekyin Nikaya Sasana Lanikara Hill in Yangon, and will be attended by 700 members of the Sangha at home and abroad, representing all members of the Orders.] Religion [There were regular small articles on donations, and voluntary labour, for the Tooth Relic Pagodas under construction in Yangon and Mandalay.] Dec. 31: SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt addressed the 32nd All-Myanmar Kachin Baptists Conference, and the centenary of the Kachin script, in Mandalay. "He said it was...an honour for the nationals as peace, an outcome of mutual understanding, sympathy and love and kindness between the national brethren, has returned to Kachin State, where there is the headquarters of Kachin Baptist Council.... He said we can trace freedom of faith and mutual love and respect in the origin of the Kachin Baptist Council which emerged with the visit of American missionary Dr. Cushing in Bhamo, a town of Kachin nationals, after asking permission from King Mindon. The Secretary-1 said magnanimity of King Mindon, who was so pious as to patronize in convening the Fifth Buddhist Synod, could be seen in his permission given to the American for missionary work. Mr. Roberts, another American missionary, asked King Thibaw for permission to open a school for Kachin nationals and in 1883, he established a primary school where Myanmarsar was taught. He said King Thibaw, who himself was versed in Buddhist literature, permitted with goodwill for missionary work and teaching literature to Kachin nationals and encouragement given by the successive Myanmar monarchs to freedom of faith was evident in the instances of the origin of Kachin baptism and Kachin script. "He noted that American Baptists had freedom in promoting their religion in Kachin State and they invented Kachin script based on their spoken language in 1834. Mr. Bronson used Roman letters to invent Kachin script and the invention was successful only in 1895 as we can see now. "The Secretary-1 praised eight missionaries who worked with diligence and goodwill for emergence of Kachin script within 60 years and said except Mr. Bronson, the remaining seven tried to use Myanmar letters for invention of Kachin script. It was Dr. Ola [sic] Hanson who invented the present Kachin script based on the Roman letter invention of Bronson. "Dr. Ola Hanson collected over 10,000 Kachin words of which 7,000 to 8,000 are everyday expressions, the Secretary said and spoke of flourishing of Kachin national language in various stages -- publication of an 11,000 word Kachin-English dictionary in 1906, publication of the first Kachin newspaper in 1914 and books and Kachin grammar and religious songs. "The Secretary-1 said the highest performance was translation of the Bible into Kachin language and the translation was duly handed to the Kachin nationals on the 50th anniversary of Kachin baptism in 1927 .... "Kachin Baptist Council, he said, has now been organized under the Myanmar Council of Baptists and was the second largest among the 15 racial and regional associations, having over 260,000 members in the entire country as of the data of 1994, he said.... As of the 1993 census, there were over 2.2 million Christians and 5,200 churches in Myanmar.... "He spoke of unfounded news spread by some circles who do not bear to see wellbeing in Myanmar in collaboration with some foreign broadcasting stations to the effect that there are religious suppressions and persecutions in Myanmar. "Some associations which are bogus religious or social organizations are inciting unscrupulous persons outside the law to cause disturbances without regard to Christianity which stresses loving kindness, endurance and forgiving, he said. He reminded the genuine faithful to beware of unscrupulous persons who will use Christianity and called on them to denounce such persons who harbour ill-will...." (NLM 1/1). Jan. 4: SLORC Chairman Senior General Than Shwe participated in a ceremony to enshrine relics in Buddha's Tooth Relic Pagoda (Yangon). The Relic is one of two presented by China following the 45-day visit of the Chinese Tooth Relic in 1994. "Chairman of Myanmar Thabin Asiayone Wunnakyawhtin U Sein Aung Min sang a ratu praising the gods and royal drums were beaten. Armies of people dressed in royal costumes and costumes of celestial beings surrounded the pagoda. The sound from blowing of conch shells and nine gongs of royal drums signalled the commencement of the ceremony...." (NLM 1/5) Jan. 16: The State Law and Order Restoration Council has presented K 300,000 for the construction of the world's largest reclining Buddha image in Mon State; the public donated K 5.1 million for the 525-foot Zinathukha Yanaungchantha image, built under the sponsorship of Sayadaw Bhaddanta Kesara of Mudon Township. (NLM 1/17) Jan. 21: The 28th Seinban Pariyatti Nuggaha Pahtamabyan Examination was held at the Dhamma Mingala Mandat in North Okkalapa on Jan. 20. 505 members of the Sangha are taking the examination. (NLM 1/ 22) Jan. 21: Minister for Religious Affairs Lt-Gen. Myo Nyunt attended the Pongul or Feast of New Crop of the All-Myanmar Hindu Central Board (AMHCB) at Mahatma Gandhi Hall on Bo Aung Kyaw Street; Chairman of the Pongul Organizing Committee Dr. D.B. Limbo and U G.S. Sharma spoke. The festival "is to honour peasants who perform deeds in various regions such a serving guests with food, cordially greeting, saying prayers, collective dancing and going to temples." Elders read the message of the AMHCB in Myanmar, Tamil, Hindi, and Telgu. (NLM 1/22) Jan. 28: Bhaddanta Khema‡ara, Presiding Sayadaw of Rama Kyaungtaik, Kalawe village, Thanlyin Township, was elected as Eighth Sasanabaing of the Welawun Nikaya Gana. The Gana was founded in 1281 ME, and is now 76 years old, and is one of the nine recognized Ganas (sects) in Myanmar. (NLM 1/29) Publications Jan. 6: IT Myanmar (The Business and Technology Magazine) was launched by Newscom Pte. Ltd. of Singapore. It will be published every two months until July 1996, and then become a monthly, and "focuses on tracking national building efforts," and is intended to give "potential investors a clearer, more balanced picture of the country's emerging market-oriented economy." Price: 90 kyats. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 9: Selected Monthly Economic Indicators for October and November 1995 has been published by the Central Statistical Organization. (NLM 1/10) Computers Articles continued throughout the month concerning the installation of computers, often donated, at high schools around the country; the ceremonies were sometimes attended by SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt. Jan. 1: As computers were installed Dec. 30 at Hinthada College and the Government Technical Institute there, it was noted that 40 computers have been installed in 23 high schools in Ayeyawady Division. (NLM 1/2) Jan. 5: The last consignment of the 3,000 computers ordered from Capital Mac Centre Ltd. for schools, arrived on the mv Mandalay Jan. 3. (NLM 1/6) Jan. 17: Opening computer units in three Kamayut Township high schools, SLORC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen. Khin Nyunt said "the education sector has given priority to enabling youths to have access to advanced and international-level education to produce brilliant intellectuals and intelligentsia, essential in endeavouring for the emergence of a modern and developed nation...." Meanwhile, SLORC Secretary-2 Lt-Gen. Tin Oo attended the opening of computer units at two high schools in Mingala Taungnyunt Township. Both installations were funded with extensive donations from the public. (NLM 1/18) Universities and Institutes Jan. 6: The Institute of Education held its 28th Convocation. Rector U Han Tin conferred the degrees M.Ed (2) and B.Ed (378), and one Dip.Ed. Certification of Correspondence Course No. 5. (NLM 1/7) Jan. 13: Yangon University began its 82nd Convocation. Rector Dr. Tun Maung conferred degrees on 1,595 graduates. -- Yangon University: Masters in Law (12), honours in English (12), Bachelors in International Relations (54), in Psychology (29), in Physics (458). -- Sittway Degree College: Bachelors in Chemistry, Botany, Physics, Math, and Zoology (197), in Geography (33), in Myanmasar (27), and in History (34). -- Workers College: Bachelors in Physics (458) and Zoology (128). (NLM 1/14) Jan. 14: The convocation concluded. Rector Dr. Tun Maung conferred degrees: Yangon University: Master's in Myanmarsar (4); Bachelors in Physics (4), Honours in Oriental Studies (12), Bachelors in Mathematics (623), Master's in English (5), Honours in International Relations (18), Bachelors in Mathematics (639). Pathein Degree College: Bachelor in History (175), and in Physics (163). (NLM 1/15) Jan. 20: The Institute of Medicine-1 held its 28th Convocation. Rector Dr. Mya Oo conferred masters degrees on 167 graduates, diplomas on 5, and bachelor's degrees on 220. (NLM 1/21) Jan. 22: Mandalay University held its 33rd Convocation. In the morning, Rector Dr. Thein Myint conferred masters degrees on 30, honours degrees on 152, bachelors degrees on 295 (including 28 in absentia); in the afternoon he conferred masters degrees on 27, honours degrees on 133, and bachelors degrees on 345 (including 50 in absentia). (NLM 1/23) Jan. 25: Yangon University held its 83rd Convocation. Rector Dr. Tun Maung conferred bachelors degrees in law (167), philosophy (78), chemistry (1175), and psychology (14); and honours degrees in psychology (5), botany (44), history (43), chemistry (6). industrial chemistry (6), and geology (9); and diplomas in English (19). Music Asiayone Jan. 19: The Myanmar Music Asiayone elected patrons at its meeting 1/96 at Yangon City Hall on Jan. 14: Alinga Kyawswa U Thu Kha, Wunna Kyawhtin Daw May Shin, Wunna Kyawhtin Yan Naing Sein, Wunna Kyawhtin Sein Mya Maung, Mandalay U Ba Thein, Tekkatho Pe San (San Thawda), Saya Hla Thamein, Bogale Tint Aung, Pianist U Sein Thaung, Pianist U Aung Khin, Brig-Gen. Khin Ohn (Retired), U Mya Gyi, Daw May Than (A-1 May Than), Harpist U Khin Myint, and Violinist U Aung Nyunt. (NLM 1/ 20) MISCELLANEOUS Sunday and Holiday Supplements Jan. 7,14,21,28: For over a year, the weekly Sunday Supplement has included the following: Our Three Main National Causes -- Non-disintegration of the Union; -- Non-disintegration of the national solidarity; -- Perpetuation of national sovereignty. Special Projects The Special Projects Implementation Committee has at its co-ordination meeting No. 1/94 held on 8-2-94 approved of the following projects for further development of the country. Six Bridges 1. A bridge across River Ayeyarwady near the town of Pyay, 2. A bridge across River Thanlwin near the town of Hpa-an, 3. A bridge across Myaungmya River near the town of Myaungmya, 4. A bridge across Toe River near the town of Maubin, 5. A bridge across River Chindwin on the Chaung-U-Pakokku railway line, 6. A bridge across Myitthar River on Pakokku-Kalay railway line. Twelve Dams 1. The Mon Chaung Dam in Tatkon Township, 2. The Taungtha Dam in Taungtha Township, 3. The Weilaung Dam in Yaungtha Township, 4. The Zeedaw Dam in Nwahtogyi Township, 5. The North Pinle Dam in Myingyan Township, 6. The Pinn Chaung Dam in Kyaukpadaung Township, 7. The Sinthe Dam in Tatkon Township, 8. The Thamekku Dam in Taungtha Township, 9. The Yaw Chaung Dam in Pauk Township, 10.The Nankathu Dam in Ingapu Township, 11.The Taungnyo Dam in Nattalin Township. Special Projects The Special Projects Implementation Committee has at its co-ordination meeting No. 2/94 held on 1-6-94 approved of the following projects for further development of the country. 1. The"Bawathit" (New Life) special project at Kabaw Valley in Sagaing Division, 2. The Thilawa Port extention project in Yangon Division, 3. The Kyaukpyu region deep sea port construction project in Rakhine State, 4. A bridge across Attaran River on Mawlamyine-Hpa-an road linking Mon and Kayin States, 5. A bridge across Gyaing River on the Mawlamyine-Zarhabyin-Eindu-Hpa-an road near Zarthabyin, 6. The Wettoe diversion weir construction of the Mu River Valley Project in Sagaing Division, 7. The Zawgyi reservoir project in Yatsauk Township in Shan State, 8. The 99-pond project at Ywathayar and surrounding areas in Yinmabin Township, Sagaing Division, 9. The Mindon diversion weir project in Kanma Township, Magway Division, 10.The ice factories, cold storage facilities and crushers construction project in Tanintharyi Division, Rakhine State, Mon State and Ayeyarwady Division, 11.The fresh water and sea prawns advanced breeding, culture and modern spawning project. Slogans for the National Convention [in Myanmar and English] The National Convention must succeed. The National Convention is genuine national politics. The National Convention is the Concern of All our National Races. With hands linked firm for the National Convention to hold. The National Convention, the Voice of the People. Our Brotherhood, with hands together, the Union to establish. Let's defend for posterity of Our Nation's sovereignty. Jan. 7,14,21,28: Towards a modern nation through all-round development, by Warazein. [Cont. Endeavours of the Attorney General's Office. (ii) Statistics on cases, construction of buildings, etc. Endeavours of the Auditor-General's Office. (i) From Apr. 1, 1991-Mar. 31, 1995, the office and its branches have inspected 2,306 annual accounts, 3,539 state/division accounts, 1,762 district accounts, and 30,910 township accounts. It inspected 826 cases from 54 organizations and permitted the write-off of K 98 million. It approved 72 appraisal review papers in English for submission tot eh World Bank and ADB. Other projects, such as inspection of construction projects. (ii) Courses and training. Endeavours of the Prime Minister's Office. (i) Activities of Sports and Physical Education Department and of the Olympic Council; visiting sports team. (NLM 1/28) Jan. 7: Beauty of Magway College and Minkin Road, by Magway Hla Myint. [A visit.] -- Remarkable progress in roads and bridges construction, by Myint Thura. [Review of projects.] -- Rubber guarantees for future security of life, by Sein Shwe. [Introduction to its cultivation.] -- Developed, lush and verdant Marlipar, by Myint Soe. [Progress in Laukkai Township of Kokang region.] -- Myaungmya can be proud of its achievement, by Dr. Thet Lwin. [Visit.] Jan. 7,21: Township development activities in Myanmar, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. (Cont. (9) Projects in Kabaw region. (10) December opening of Refresher Course No. 1/95 for Engineers and Clerical Staff of Township Development Committees, addressed by Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Lt-Gen. Maung Thint.] Jan. 14: Sagaing Division Regional Industrial Fair (Monywa Zone), by Maung Kyaw Moe. [Visit to the fair, where 31 "industrialists from Sagaing, Monywa, Kalay, Shwebo and Katha districts" displayed 83 products.] -- We all together will take part in construction works, by Min Thein. ["Every construction project is a capital work.... It is incumbent upon the State...to safeguard the interests and recover expenditures incurred. The people who are the direct beneficiaries in this construction and maintenance sector are required to take responsibility to a certain limit for safeguarding the State owned property as their own. A project work should be the one beneficial to the State and ought not to be a liability. It is the duty of the entire mass of people to perform that historic task using tactics compatible with developing political, economic, and social situation." Since 1988, the Public Works road network was 14,532 miles; roads have now increased to 173,000 miles. Union highways have increased from 11 with a length of 2,452 miles, to 80 with a length of 15,142 miles. Bridges have increased from 4,932 to 5,065.] -- Historical record, by Ahtet Minhla Nyunt Aung. [Song of history students at the Yangon University Diamond Jubilee.] -- Benefits of Sittoung Valley Development Project, by Ye Myint Pe. [Increased paddy production.] -- Relentless efforts to curb narcotic drug abuse, by Maung Lu Thant. [They will continue.] -- Biomass energy, by Thein Mya Lwin. [Use of vegetable waste materials as substitute for charcoal.] Jan. 21: Hotel, motel and tourism industry, by Maung Loktha. [Progress in tourism.] -- Water for successful cultivation of summer paddy, by Mawgyun Myint Aung. [Irrigation in Mawlamyinegyun Township, Ayeyawady Division.] -- People's participation needed for greening nine districts, by Kyaw Sint. [Visit to Pyawbwe Township.] -- Secure and smooth transportation strengthens Union spirit, by Maung Pe Hlaing. [New riverboats.] Jan. 28: Chaungtha Beach welcomes one and all, by Myat Wai Toe. [New beach development near Pathein.] -- Edible oil in sufficient amount and paddy in excess, by Tha Tun Wai. [A goal that will be achieved in the near future.] -- Success achieved in livestock breeding, by Myint Lwin Thein. [In Pyawbwe Township.] -- Lovely Ma Ye Onbinsu model village, by Mawgyun Myint Aung [Visit in Kyauktada Township.] -- Pumped water irrigation project from Sittoung River, by Tin Ohn Maung. [Irrigation in Oktwin Township.] Crime Jan. 14: Twelve Myanmar women returned from Japan Jan. 9-11. They had been hired to perform Myanmar cultural dances in Japan, but "were forced to work at the restaurants, serving drinks and keeping company." The Myanmar Embassy rescued them. "Those involved in the incident are to be exposed and action will be taken against them." (NLM 1/15) Jan. 15: Action has been taken against 11 video-show operators in Twantay Township, Yangon Division, for hiring or showing "pirated video tapes." Two others are being prosecuted in Hmawby Township for pirating and distributing videotapes. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 18: Minister for Finance and Revenue Brig-Gen. Win Tin briefed media on the "difference between genuine and counterfeit hundred-dollar bills." He quoted from the article by Frederic Dannen and Ira Silverman in the Oct. 23, 1995, The New Yorker, on counterfeit hundred-dollar bills called the Supernote. Using slides, he showed how to detect counterfeits. "Replying to questions of those present, he said the US dollar is the most used among foreign currencies existing in the nation and the news conference was held to intimate the State, Myanmar nationals and entrepreneurs who officially use the dollar of the threat to enable them to prevent loss. The mount [sic] of counterfeit hundred-dollar bills in Myanmar is not so large yet, he said." [photos] (NLM 1/19) Anti-Narcotics Activities Jan. 11: 4.5 kilos of marijuana was seized Dec. 27 in Yangon. 0.06 kilo of heroin was seized the same day in Yangon, along with over K 33,000. (NLM 1/12) Jan. 15: 8.5 acres of poppy were destroyed near Pekin village, Phekon Township, on Jan. 10. (NLM 1/16) Jan. 16: During December 1995, the Tatmadaw seized 0.4 kilo of heroin and 8.8 litres of Phensedyl. The Police seized 1.9 kilos of heroin (112 cases), 7.4 kilos of opium (31 cases), 7.4 kilos of marijuana (18 cases), 154.4 litres of Phensedyl (22 cases), morphine (1 case), four tablets of China Ball (1 case), 0.09 kilo of heavy opium solution (1 case), 0.8 litre of Phencodine (1 case), and 0.005 kilo of opium powder (1 case). There were 80 cases of failure to register for treatment, and 4 other drug-related cases. The Police took action against 381 persons in 272 cases. Police and Tatmadaw acting together seized 0.6 kilo of heroin (4 cases) and 1.9 kilos of opium (1 case). (NLM 1/17) Jan. 17: During calendar year 1995, the Tatmadaw seized 7.4 kilos of heroin, 289.6 kilos of opium, 217.5 litres of Phensedyl, and 29.1 kilos of marijuana. The police seized 65.2 kilos of heroin (1,507 cases), 771.1 kilos of opium (409 cases), 2,172.0 litres of Phensedyl (216 cases), 116.7 kilos of marijuana (405 cases), 8.6 kilos of heavy opium solution (25 cases), 5.1 kilos of liquid opium (1 case), 7.7 kilos of opium block (11 cases), 1.8 kilos of opium residue (6 cases), 0.2 kilo of dried opium (8 cases), 176 vials of morphine (4 cases), 18.8 litres of Comethazine (6 cases), 1,159.5 gallons of acetic anhydride (4 cases), 1,002 tables of Methaqualone (2 cases), 5.7 kilos of opium powder (11 cases), 140.6 litres of Benadine (1 case), 140 gallons of methylated spirit (1 case), 0.001 litre of Wheelex syrup (1 case), 1.3 litres of cough syrup (2 cases), 1.6 litres of Tixylix syrup (1 case), 0.1 kilo of khatpon (2 cases), 4 tablets of China Ball (1 case), and 0.8 litres of Phencodine (1 case). There were 1,424 cases of failure to register for treatment and 81 drug-related cases. Police took action against 5,783 persons in 4,130 drug-related cases. Customs seized 1.9 litres of Phensedyl (1 case). Included in the police figures, the Tatmadaw and police working together seized 33.6 kilos of heroin (100 cases), 527.3 kilos of opium (54 cases), 873.4 litres of Phensedyl (61 cases), 7.9 kilos of marijuana (6 cases), and 102 gallons of acetic anhydride (1 case). (NLM 1/18) Jan. 23: 18 persons were sentenced to "unlimited terms of years with labour" under the narcotics law. They were arrested Apr. 23, 1995 in Insein Township, Yangon, with 1.9 kilos of opium oil and 4.9 kilos of raw opium. Cars, TVS, cassettes, jewellery, etc. were confiscated [names]. (NLM 1/24) Jan. 23: 1,207 bottles of Phensedyl were seized in Mandalay on Jan. 16, and seven persons were arrested. 0.1 kilo of heroin was seized Jan. 14 in Kyukok (Pangsai) Township. (NLM 1/24) Jan. 25: 2.0 kilos of heroin were seized Jan. 19 in Taunggyi. (NLM 1/26) Jan. 27: 1.0 kilo of heroin was seized Jan. 20 in Lashio. (NLM 1/28) Marriage Jan. 6: Maung Zaw Win, Fitter (Australia), son of U Chit Hmwee and Daw Tin Mya of Hlegu, married Ma Myat Myat Maw (B.A. History), daughter of U Yin Maung and Daw Khin Hla of Dagon Myothit. (NLM 1/29) Obituaries [English language obituaries only; there are obituaries in Burmese as well.] Dec. 7: Agga Maha Sadhammajotikadhaja Patna Sayadaw Bhaddanta Thirizeya, vassa 68, died in Patna [India], aged 86. (NLM 1/ 7) Jan. 1: U Mya Kyi, retired Accounts Officer (DFI), husband of Daw Aye Aye Myint (Daw Bo Ma), died in Yangon (age not given). (NLM 1/2) Jan. 4: Arthur R. Vargas (a) U Nyo, husband of the lat Daw Sein May, died in Yangon, aged 78 years. [Catholic] (NLM 1/5) Jan. 7: U Ba Than, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Retired), Timber Rep. (Nishibayashi Co., Ltd.), husband of Daw May, died in Yangon, aged 83. [Christian] (NLM 1/8) Jan. 8: Daw Aye Shwe, Retd. teacher, wife of Rev. Mahn Po Wai, died in Yangon, aged 79. [Christian] (NLM 1/9) Jan. 12: Daw Hla Kyi, widow of U Hla Pe (Shwebo), died in Yangon, aged 86. (NLM 1/ 13) Jan. 14: Capt. R. Raja (retired) (BC/8541), OTS 25th Course, Record Office Defence Services, husband of Daw Masie (a) Arthi Lutchemi, died in Yangon, aged 89. [Hindu] (NLM 1/15) Jan. 18: Daw Mya Sein (a) Mrs. Rock Top Tamla Htoo, wife of the late P'doh Rock Top Tamla Htoo, died in Yangon, aged 87. [Baptist] (NLM 1/19) Jan. 18: Robin J. Daye (a) U Thein Swe, former staff (Consular Section), British Embassy, husband of the late Dorothy Marie Daye, died in Yangon, aged 74. [Catholic] (NLM 1/19) Jan. 20: Tharamu Naw Sein Nu, BA, BL, Retired SAT (Bago Kayin High School), wife of Thara Hla Maung, died in Yangon, aged 86. [Baptist] (NLM 1/21) Jan. 23: U Mg Hla (Mr. Eric Williams), Member: Legion of Mary Parish Council (St. Francis' Parish), husband of the late Daw Kyi Kyi (Margaret), died in Yangon, aged 75. [Catholic] (NLM 1/24) Jan. 24: Mr. B Edwards, Ex-Superintendent (CMA, MOD), husband of Rosalind, died in Yangon, aged 71. [Christian] (NLM 1/25) Jan. 24: Lt-Col. Putpa (Retired) BGM BC/3800, husband of the late Nu Niang Za Vung, died in Leilum, Tiddim, Chin State, aged 82. [Christian] (NLM 1/27) Jan. 27: Captain Kham Cin Khai (BC/4078), Ex-Secy Burma Army Veterans Assoc., husband of Daw Cingh Ciang, died in Kalemyo, aged 77. [Christian] (NLM 1/28) Beauty Contest Questions Jan. 2: Contestants in the Myanmar Trade Fair 1996 Fashion Show will be asked three of the following 14 questions [text]: -- What are the five attributes of the beauty of Myanmar ladies? -- Are beauty contests past and present the same? What are the differences? Why? -- Myanmar should play an exemplary role in upholding ethics in the world. What are they? -- Myanmar women are the gems of the nation. They are more precious than gem stones. The State expects much of them. How will they repay the gratitude? [sic] -- There is the most important requirement for Myanmar women in addition to culture, beauty and to do honour to the nation. What is that requirement? -- The women are to keep their respective races pure without allowing assimilation of other races. They are responsible for producing the new generations. Mixed blood can lead to damage to traditions. How should be a race be preserved? -- Explain the five duties of children. -- Describe the slogans of the Trade Fair. -- How do you understand the term "Katanuta" ['gratitude toward the grateful' -- HCMacD.] in Buddhist teachings? -- What kind of duty is being discharged by the National Convention? -- Describe the social objectives of the State. -- Recite Our Three Main National Causes. -- Who are carrying out duties with might and main for national solidarity in the Union of Myanmar? -- What are your plans to serve the nation if you win the prize in this contest? (NLM 1/3) NLM Advertising Rates The New Light of Myanmar New Advertising Rates (Effective 1-2-96) Foreign ads Old Rate New Rate 1" x 1 col. $15.00 $30.00 Half page $1,102.00 $2,200.00 Full page $2,200.00 $4,400.00 Commission 30% 40% Local ads (per 1" x 1 col.) Social K 250.00 K 500.00 Economic K 300.00 K 600.00 Obituaries K 50.00 K 50.00 Embassy ads K 500.00 K 1,000.00 Trade mark caution (Foreign) 1" x 1 Column US$ equiv of K 500 US$ equiv of K 600 (NLM 1/24) ----- 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 Glimmerglass Cottage 8 Lake Street Cooperstown, NY 13326-1016Burma Press Summary, No. 107, Jan. 1996