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SPOTLIGHT 

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Message from Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of State Peace and Development Council on occasion of 57th Anniversary of United Nations Day

Yangon, 24 Oct - Today is the fifty-seventh anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, a unique organization that has relentlessly worked for the well-being of our human kind. This marks the third time we are celebrating the occasion in this century. At the beginning of the century, the leaders of the world set forth goals for the new millennium and made commitments to establish better and sustainable conditions for the world while endeavouring to remedy or eliminate the conditions that have jeopardized the interests and existence of mankind. It has been nearly three years since the United Nations and all its Member States have been making concerted efforts for the realization of these goals as quickly as possible.

The problems facing humanity consist of both man-made and natural problems. Many of the problems are closely intertwined and the solution of one requires simultaneous solution of another or others with a comprehensive approach and coordinated strategy. It is, therefore, vitally important that all members of the international community tackle these global problems together in a family spirit.

In pursuing development goals the most fundamental prerequisite is peace - peace within countries, peace between neighbours and peace among all. For the foundation of peace to be firmly rooted, every country should respect and strictly abide by the principles on friendly relations between countries enshrined in the United Nations Charter and International Law, in one's relations with others.

Myanmar has steadfastly followed the principles referred to above and the five principles of peaceful co-existence in her relations with other countries. Believing that doing so would contribute not only towards regional peace and security but also international peace and security, Myanmar will resolutely continue to adhere to the aforementioned sacrosanct principles of peaceful co-existence.

While paying tribute to the Secretary-General and the United Nations Organization for the good work they have done, we would once again like to solemnly pledge our faith in and support for the United Nations on this auspicious occasion of the fifty- seventh anniversary of the United Nations Day.

Message sent by UN Secretary-General to 57th United Nations Day

Yangon, 24 Oct - The following is the message of Secretary-General Kofi A Annan on United Nations Day, 24 October.

I send you all my best wishes, on this United Nations Day - and special greetings, this year, to the peoples of our two newest Member States: Switzerland and Timor-Leste. More clearly than ever, the United Nations represents the whole human family.

And never has the human family needed the United Nations more than it does today. There are so few things today that any nation can control, relying purely on its own resources. And there are so many things that the world's peoples can achieve, if we all work together.

So let us cherish our United Nations. And let us give every human being a stake in its success.

How can we do that? By working to fulfil the pledges that the leaders of all the United Nations gave, two years ago, at the Millennium Summit. Those pledges were based on fundamental human needs - from reducing poverty, to halting the spread of AIDS, to providing access to safe drinking water. They came with a target date attached: the year 2015. We call them the Millennium Development Goals.

Sad to say, we are not on track. If we don't do better in the next 12 years than in the last 10, we shall miss most of those Goals. Every country needs to make greater efforts. And that will only happen if you, the people of each country, insist that what needs to be done, is done.

It is your United Nations. Please make the most of it.

Secretary-1 attends ceremony to mark the 57th Anniversary of United Nations Day
Even though threat of another world war almost non-existent nowadays, the need for United Nations not diminished
Development gap between industrialized and developing countries continues to widen 

Yangon, 24 Oct - The 57th Anniversary of the United Nations Day was observed at Thabin Hall of the Pyithu Hluttaw Building on Pyay Road at 6 pm today, with an address by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar General Khin Nyunt.

First, the Secretary-1 delivered an address. He said: the United Nations, conceived during and born at the end of the Second World War to save the succeeding generations of mankind from the scourge of war, is 57 years old today. Even though the threat of another world war is almost non-existent nowadays, the need for the United Nations has not diminished. Due to the challenges being faced by mankind today, the international community has unanimously acknowledged that the re-levancy of the United Nations, as a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations in the maintenance of international peace and security, and in the search for the solutions of international economic, social, cultural, and humanitarian problems, is greater than ever. In this connection, the United Nations anniversary commemoration is a very meaningful occasion.

The United Nations started with 51 Member States, and is now an organization with near universal membership. There is no doubt that the soundness and validity of the fundamental principles enshrined in the Charter have helped the United Nations overcome various difficulties during the period of past fifty seven years and the Organization is now cohesively standing tall, enjoying unanimous support of the international community. It is the first and foremost duty of all the Member States to ensure that the United Nations never deviates from these time-tested principles in order to protect and promote the common interest of all Member States, big or small, rich or poor, powerful or weak.

The United Nations must be strengthened further to enable it to tackle the problems being faced by mankind in the 21st century.

The development gap between the industrialized and developing countries has continued to widen. The number of people living in poverty has not diminished. There is pervasive hunger, poverty, illiteracy, and ill-health. It is , therefore, imperative that poverty alleviation efforts by the United Nations be given unstinting support by the international community.

The challenges being faced by mankind include those which cause hardships and those which threaten the continued existence of mankind. The latter category jeopardizes the common interest of mankind. In responding to such challenges, the entire mankind needs to be united with a single objective. One of the major challenges of the United Nations is to halt and reverse the effects of environmental degradation and to promote environmentally sound and sustainable development in all countries through effective international cooperation. This global partnership is essential to set the world community onto a new course for a more sustainable, secure and equitable future in the new century.

Myanmar became the 58th Member State of the United Nations when she joined the Organization on 19 April 1948. Since then Myanmar has been a faithful and responsible member of the United Nations. On this 57th anniversary occasion of the United Nations, I would like to reaffirm Myanmar's unswerving support for the Organization. I wish the United Nations every success in carrying out its most noble duties.

Then, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung read out the message to the Fifty-seventh Anniversary of the United Nations Day sent by the Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar Senior General Than Shwe.

Afterwards, Resident Coordinator of the United Nations Mr Patrice Coeur Bizot read out the message sent by Secretary-General of the United Nations Mr Kofi A Annan.

Next, the artistes of the Fine Arts Department of the Ministry of Culture presented cultural dances to the audience.

Secretary-1 inspects arrangements for construction of modern buildings

 Yangon, 24 Oct - Chairman of the City Housing Project Supervisory Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, arrived at the briefing hall of the Agricultural Mechanization Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation on Pyay Road here at 7 am today.

Minister for Forestry U Aung Phone reported on arrangements being made by Union of Myanmar Forest Products Joint-Venture Corporation for extended construction of the building of the Forest Joint-Venture Business Centre at the corner of Botahtaung Pagoda Road and Strand Road in Botahtaung Township in order to promote its business, and the upgrading of Hlawga Wildlife Park. Then, Managing Director of the Wood Land Co U Win Aung reported on designation of two zones to upgrade the park, construction of a recreation centre, a garden to grow plant species of the temperate zone, a 500-seat open-air theatre for animal shows, a bird and butterfly park and souvenir shops and restaurants at the Zone 1, construction of folk houses and recreation centres and launching of adventure trekking, elephant ride and yachting programmes for visitors at the Zone 2.

The minister gave a supplementary report. Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt looked into the requirements in creating a natural park for public recreation and left the briefing hall later in the morning.

International Relations

Secretary-1 receives SEA youths' voyage goodwill delegation

Yangon, 24 Oct - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt received the 29th Voyage for Southeast Asian Youth Programme comprising youth leaders and second-leaders from Japan and ASEAN member countries, led by Mr Yamamoto Shigeki, which is currently here at the invitation of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, at Zeya Thiri Hall of Konmyinttha this afternoon.

Foreign Affairs Minister U Win Aung sends felicitations to Republic of Kazakhstan

Yangon, 25 Oct - U Win Aung, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Union of Myanmar, has sent a message of felicitations to His Excellency Mr Kasymzhomart K Tokayev, Foreign Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan, on the occasion of the National Day of the Republic of Kazakhstan which falls on 25 October 2002.

Minister receives guests of PRC

Yangon, 24 Oct - Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung received Executive Director Mr Zhang Wen Yuan and party of China General Technology (Group) Holding Limited of the People's Republic of China at his office this evening.

SEA youths' voyage goodwill delegation arrives

Yangon, 24 Oct - At the invitation of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, a 16-member youth delegation from the 29th South East Asia youths' voyage organized by the Japanese Government, arrived here by air this morning.  In the afternoon, the youth delegation visited Drug Elimination Museum, and in the evening, USDA Secretary-General U Than Aung gave a dinner in honour of the visiting youth delegation at the Sedona Hotel.

USDA Secretary-General receives youth friendship delegation

Yangon, 24 Oct - Secretary-General of the Union Solidarity and Development Association U Than Aung received the visiting 16-member friendship delegation of 29th Southeast Asian Youth Voyage, including leaders of Japan and ASEAN member countries and led by Mr Yamamoto Shigeki, at the USDA head office on New University Avenue in Bahan Township here this evening. At the call, the secretary-general explained the aims and objectives of the association and tasks being carried out and replied the queries raised by the members of youth delegation.

Vietnam Trade Fair 2002 opened

Yangon, 24 Oct - An opening ceremony of Vietnam Trade Fair 2002 opened at Yangon Trade Centre on Upper Pazundaung Road in Mingala Taungnyunt Township this morning.

First, Mr Pham Quang Khon, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, explained the porpose of holding the Trade Fair.

Then, Minister for Commerce Brig-Gen Pyi Sone and Mr Pham Quang Khon formally opened the trade fair. Ministers and guests viewed the goods displayed there. They then posed for a documentary photo. Medicines, machinery, chemicals, textile and clothes, leather, foodstuff, electronic goods, household goods, farm equipment, bicycle and spare parts, handicrafts, vetinary medicines, ceramics, electric wires, water pumps and motors, and others were displayed there.

The trade fair is kept open till 27 October from 10 am to 6 pm daily.

Italian tourists arrive by chartered flight

Yangon, 24 Oct - Under the supervision of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism and with the sponsorship of the Ministry of Transport and Myanmar Lotus Asia Tours Ltd, the chartered flight of Lauda Air Boeing 767/300 with 9 tourists on board arrived here this morning.

The officials of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism and Myanmar Lotus Asia Tours Ltd and national race girls welcomed them at the airport. The tourists will enjoy the trip of Yangon-Bagan-Popa-Mandalay-Pindaya-In lay and they will leave here on 31 October. Those, who arrived here on 17 October, left here today.

Region

Lt-Gen Maung Bo attends opening of 2 KVA hydel power plant in Taninthayi, monsoon paddy model plot harvesting and winter crops cultivation ceremony in Myeik

Yangon, 24 Oct - The opening ceremony of 2 KVA hydel power plant was held in Banlamut Village in Taninthayi Township, Taninthayi Division, and model plot of monsoon paddy harvesting and winter crops cultivation ceremony in Pathaung Village-tract in Myeik Township on 22 October.

Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Maung Bo of the Ministry of Defence attended the ceremonies. The opening ceremony of the 2 KVA hydel power plant of Banlamut Village was held at the village at 3 pm. Electrical Engineer U Maung Maung of Taninthayi Township reported on construction of the plant and Leader U Saw Tin of the plant installation group on efforts made for the construction.

Then, Taninthayi Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Aye Lwin reported on assistance rendered for the construction of the plant and assignment of duty for the maintenance of the plant. Then, Lt-Gen Maung Bo made a speech. He said the government is implementing the development projects in states, divisions and border areas with added momentum in order to narrow the development gap between urban and rural areas. Roads and bridges are also being constructed in the division by the government. He urged the local people to make relentless efforts for the emergence of cottage industries in the village by utilizing the power of the plant and for the development of the region.

He also highlighted the duty of service personnel and local people to ensure durability of the plant and rice sufficiency in the region. Then, the commander explained the assistance rendered for the opening of the plant and plans for the extension of the plant. Then, Lt-Gen Maung Bo formally opened the 2 KVA hydel power plant. Later, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected the power plant. The cable is 1360 feet long and the plant can produce 2,000 watts for 75 houses. The Banlamut Village has 123 households with a population of over 1,000. With the aim of supplying electricity to the villages, Taninthayi Division Peace and Development Council is providing necessary assistance. Now, 10 village tracts have been provided with electric power supply.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party later attended Manawthukha monsoon paddy model plot harvesting ceremony and winter paddy cultivation ceremony at the plot of farmer U Aung Pho Tin. First, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected the trawlers displayed by the Agricultural Mechanization Department for the farmers and heard reports by Manager U Than Naing of Taninthayi Division Myanma Agriculture Service on cultivation of monsoon paddy crops in Pathaung Village-tract.

Next, Lt-Gen Maung Bo, the commander and party viewed paddy strains, harvesting of Manawthukha monsoon paddy, thrashing of harvested paddy and land preparation for cultivation of double crops. Then Lt-Gen Maung Bo cordially met with the local farmers and urged to cooperate with departmental staff in implementing the tasks for local rice sufficiency.

Taninthayi Division Peace and Development Council has placed orders for 100 trawlers from AMD and now 42 has arrived and are being used.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo inspects regional development projects in Taninthayi Division

Yangon, 24 Oct - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Maung Bo of the Ministry of Defence inspected Bokpyin-Taninthayi Road Construction Project between Bokpyin Township in Kawthoung District and Myeik Township in Myeik District, oil palm plantations of national entrepreneurs, repair of roads and bridges, construction of bridges and regional development tasks in Taninthayi Division on 22 October.

Accompanied by Taninthayi Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Coastal Region Command Commander Brig-Gen Tha Aye and departmental heads, Lt-Gen Maung Bo arrived at the office of Yuzana (2) Oil Palm Project. Officials reported on the planting of some 400,000 oil palms, the thriving of the palms and arrangements made for cultivation of paddy in the plantations. Lt-Gen Maung Bo said that cultivation of paddy as mixed-crop in the oil palm plantations contributed to regional rice sufficiency. He called for extended cultivation of paddy and inspected thriving oil palm plantations. Deputy Superintending Engineer U Khin Maung Kyaw reported on construction of Bokpyin-Taninthayi Road section-wise. Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on continuously building of roads in the opening season and timely repair of roads deteriorated in the rainy season.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party went to Layhnya-Mandaing River Bridge Construction Project on Kawthoung-Bokpyin-Tanin-thayi-Myeik Road. At the briefing hall, officials reported on progress in construction of the bridge and requirements. The commander and officials gave supplementary reports. Deputy Superintending Engineer U Khin Maung Kyaw reported on the building of 1.6 miles long road from the mile post 115/3 on Mandaing side and requirements. Lt-Gen Maung Bo attended to the needs and gave instructions on ensuring timely completion, keeping records and worksite safety. He then inspected the work progress. The 860 feet long and 30 feet wide bridge has a 24-feet wide motorway. The upper structure of the bridge is built of iron beams and the lower structure, of reinforced concrete. It can withstand 60-ton loads. It is learnt that 60 per cent of the construction tasks has been completed and efforts are being made without sparing day and night for timely completion.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected Pyigyi Mandaing Station Hospital in Bokpyin Township and left necessary instructions. Lt-Gen Maung Bo then inspected oil palm plantations and road repair between Mandaing Village in Bokpyin Township and Taninthayi. They later went to Kanbawza oil palm project eight miles south of Taninthayi. Officials reported on progress in cultivation of 18,050 acres of monsoon paddy, cultivation of 4,200 acres of summer paddy, cultivation of rainy season crops, the target of the project, work progress, extended planting and nurturing of oil palms.

Myeik District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Khin Maung Kywe reported on cultivation of monsoon and summer paddy being undertaken by Hsinbyushin and Bayint-naung farms in Taninthayi Division for local rice sufficiency and Deputy Superintending Engineer U Khin Maung Kyaw and officials, on gathering of heavy machinery and construction materials. The commander and officials gave supplementary reports. Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on efforts to be made for cultivation of summer paddy and hilly region paddy in addition to annual extended cultivation of monsoon paddy for local rice sufficiency, gathering of heavy machinery and construction materials to speed up the construction of roads and bridges in the open season, all-out efforts to be made for development of the whole region.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party proceeded to Taninthayi and cordially met with local people. They arrived at Myeik in the evening.

Entries of colour photo contest judged

Yangon, 24 Oct - A total of 225 entries from 86 photographers were accepted for the 13th national motto colour photo contest under the title of "Pleasant Myanmar".

Chairman of the Committee for the Observance of Colour Photo Contest Deputy Minister for Information U Thein Sein and members Director of MRTV U Ko Ko Htway, doyen photographers Okkala U Tun Shwe, U Pe Khin, U Hla Kywe, U Hla Aye, Joint-Secretary of Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association U Myint Kywe, Chairman of Myanmar Photographic Society U Pe Myint Oo and Secretary of the Committee for the Observance of Colour Photo Contest Director of IPRD U Tun Min judged the entries at the meeting hall of the Information and Public Relations Department on Pansodan Street this afternoon.

According to the judgment, Tun Tun Naing (Thazin) stood first; UNESCO Tun Aung Kyaw, second; Kyaw Kyaw Win, third; and consolation prizes went to Hsan Oo (Tein Hlwa), Thet Naing (Bermuda), U Hsan Htat (Myanmar), Saw Aung Min (New Asia) and A-A-Moe (Zoology). The prize winners are to send their original negatives as soon as possible.

The winners of first, second and third prizes are to attend the prize-presentation ceremony, which will be held in Yangon on 5 December (Sarsodaw Day), and cash awards will be sent to consolation prize winners.

Culture

  Ramayana drama competition continues

Yangon, 24 Oct - Ramayana drama contest of the Tenth Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continued for the fifth day at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung Street in Dagon Township today. Magway Division took part in the competition. Leader of the panel of judges for Ramayana drama U Tin Tun Oo and members supervised the competition. Ayeyawady Division will participate in Ramayana Drama competition at the same venue tomorrow evening.

10th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continue for sixth day

Yangon, 24 Oct - The 10th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continued for the sixth day at the designated places today.

The singing contest was held at the National Museum on Pyay Road at 9 am today. Chairperson of panel of judges for signing competition Assistant Director (Music) of Myanma Radio and Television Daw Tin Tin Mya, Secretary and Assistant Engineer Daw May Pyone Khaing and members of the panel of judges supervised the contest.

Leader of the panel of judges U Min Naung and party supervised the professional level men's old/modern song contest and Leader U Maung Maung Gyi and party, the basic education level (aged 10-15) boys' religious song contest. Altogether 14 contestants of States and Divisions took part in the professional level men's old/modern song contest and 16 contestants at the basic education level (aged 10-15) girls' religious song contest.

On 25 October morning, the amateur level men's music contest and the basic education level (aged 5-10) girls' music contest will be held at National Museum. The dancing contest continued at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung Street at 9 am today. Chairman of the panel of judges U Sein Aung Min, Secretary Daw Mu Mu Khin and members supervised the contest. A total of 15 competitors of States and Divisions took part in the basic education level (aged 15-20) boys' dancing contest.

In the afternoon, 16 contestants participated in the basic education level (aged 5-10) girls' dancing contest. On 25 October morning, the amateur level marionette contest will be held at the National Museum on Myoma Kyaung Street. The song composing contest continued at the State School of Fine Arts of the Fine Arts Department, supervised by Chairman of the panel of judges Bogale U Tint Aung and members.

Competitors of States and Divisions participated in the practicing of songs in the higher education level song composing contest and the competitors of the amateur level song composing contest will practice their songs at the State School of Fine Arts of the Fine Arts Department on 25 October. Similarly, the music contest was held at Padomma Theatre in Sangyoung Township at 9 am today and altogether 13 competitors of States and Divisions took part in the professional level men's solo orchestra contest and 12 competitors in the basic education level (aged 10-15) boys' contest supervised by the Leader of the panel of judges U Sein Hla Myaing and party. The higher education level men's dobat contest and the basic education level (aged 15-20) boys' event will be held at the State School of Fine Arts of the Fine Arts Department on 25 October.

The basic education level (aged 5-10) girls' xylophone contest was held at Kanbawza Theatre of Fine Arts Department on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, where Leader of the panel of judges U Yi Nwe and members supervised the contest in which altogether 14 competitors of States and Divisions took part. On 25 October, the professional level men's xylophone contest and the higher education level women's event continues at Kanbawza Theatre.

Economic

Gems industry development in accord with Myanma Gems Act coordinated

Yangon, 24 Oct - A coordination meeting was held under the leadership of the Minister for Mines in view of the development of Myanma gems industry in accord with the Myanma Gems Act.

 The meeting took place at Myanma Gems Museum on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this afternoon, and a total of over 300 gem merchants from various gems lands attended it. Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Mines Brig-Gen Ohn Myint said that the purpose of this meeting with gem merchants is to seek solution to difficulties for the development of gems industry. Sound advice of the gem merchants will make the gem business development and the gem market will prosper as well. It is necessary for the gem merchants to abide by the gem act and rules and regulations prescribed. Arrangements have been made to hold such a meeting every two years.

Myanma Gems Enterprise is the most reliable enterprise of the Ministry of Mines and it earns a great deal of money for the State. Manama's jades and rubies are of great demand in the world market. He also urged the gem entrepreneurs to make cooperative efforts for the success of the State's goals. Then, Managing Director of MGE U Khin Oo reported to the minister on assistance being offered by the State to the gem entrepreneurs and the requirements to follow Myanma Gems Act. Gem entrepreneurs also reported on the requirements for the business to be successful, gems sale conditions and efforts being made for the development of gem business.

Next, Managing Director Col Sein Tin Win of Myanma Petroleum Products Enterprise reported to the minister on distribution of fuel to the gems entrepreneurs for their mining tasks. Later, the minister and the deputy minister gave instructions on the reports of the gem entrepreneurs and fulfilled the requirements. The meeting came to an end in the evening.

Sport

Fourth event of Myanmar London Golf Tour on 14-17 November

Yangon, 23 Oct - Fourth Event of Myanmar London Golf Tour 2002, jointly sponsored by Myanmar Golf Federation and Myanmar Professional Golfers Association, will be held on a grand scale at Ayethaya Golf Course, in Taunggyi, Shan State (South) from 14 to 17 November and handsome prizes will be presented to winners.

Together with professional golfers, only amateur men golfers with handicap 0-12 are allowed to take part in the event and not those aged under 18. Rothmans of Pall Mall Myanmar Pte Ltd will mainly sponsor the event. With a view to promoting Myanmar's golf standard, Air Mandalay will officially co-sponsor the event as official airline, Wilson and KM Golf Centre as official golf equipment suppliers, Kanbawza Bank as official bank, Loi-Hein (Alpine) Purified Drinking Water as official water, Canon (ACCEL International Co Ltd) as official office equipment supplier and Grand Royal Special Reserve Whisky as official whisky. Sunfar Travels and Tours Co Ltd will give away handsome prizes to those who score hole-in-one in the third event. Professional and amateur golfers who wish to participate in the event may enlist by 2 pm on 12 November and contact Myanmar PGA office Tel 723221, 661216 for further details.

Pro quality event will also take place at the same venue in the morning on 11 and 12 November.

Key tourism role for airline exec

MAJOR Selvakumar, the chief operating officer of Air Mandalay, is the new chairman of one of the nation’s most significant marketing bodies charged with increasing the country’s tourism image. By a show of hands the Myanmar Marketing Committee (MMC) of the Myanmar Tourism Promotion Board elected a new nine-member executive committee chaired by Mr Selvakumar, a Malaysian national, when it met at the Traders Hotel last Thursday. According to the press statement released by MMC, the purpose of the meeting was to elect a new committee for one year and adopt a constitution, which would govern the day to day running of MMC in a transparent and equitable manner. "The first meeting of new executive members will be on October 16 to formulate a plan to promote and market Myanmar," said Mr Selvakumar. The new constitution would provide guidelines for the committee to manage the MMC, and is a clear signal that the marketing committee is finally serious on being expertly organised.  Mr Selvakumar’s task comes at crucial time with the Minister of Tourism is stating publicly that it was time for earnest work in a bid to capture one million visitors annually. In his first public statement, Mr Selvakumar’s said his role was to ensure greater awareness about Myanmar’s tourist attractions. Promoting year-round travel, even during the monsoon period, was one of the challenges facing the tourism sector. Referring to the appointment of three Myanmar travel agents to the executive committee, Mr Selva-kumar said: "We want everybody to be involved in the committee, we want all people who have experience or expertise in tourism". Mr Brett Melzer from Balloons Over Bagan was elected as vice chairman, Ms Elly Darley from Inle Princess Resort was elected as secretary and Daw Rita Myint of Taw Win Travel was elected as treasurer. The other executive committee members included Inya Lake hotel’s Mr Suki Singh, Mr Jehan. Wickremesooriya from Kadawgyi Palace Hotel, U Aung Myat Kyaw from Orchestra Travel, U Min Din from Columbus travels and tours, and Traders’ hotel’s Mr Raymond Bragg. The executive members were elected to serve on the committee until the end of 2003, the press statement said. An MMC member, Mr Franz Fisher, the country manager at Diethelm Travel Company welcomed the adoption of a new constitution. "Our company would give the maximum support not only for the MMC but also for UMTA (Union of Myanmar Travel Association)," said Mr Fischer. "But the annual membership fees of US$400 is too high for most small local companies. In my opinion, it should be considerably reduced in order to attract more members," he said. Myanmar Marketing Committee has 30 members from all sections of the tourism industry, including the members of UMTA.

Myanmar Times ( Oct.14-20) , 2002-Vol.7, No. 137 )


Tour operators, ecologists agree on need to conserve mangrove forests

n5(151002) TOUR operators and ecologists rarely find themselves sitting on the same side of the fence. But as Myanmar prepares for the tourist high season – which accounts for most the 200,000 foreigners who visit each year – ecologists are happy to discover that the tourism sector is among their most vocal supporters, at least on the issue of conserving mangrove forests. Mangrove forests are among the world’s most important ecosystems. They provide a habitat for a diverse range of creatures, act as a filter which helps to keep the sea clean and protect coastal areas from the effects of bad weather. They are also important for the survival of offshore coral reefs. Mangroves are under threat throughout the world and more than half of the forests have been depleted. Myanmar is fortunate to have vast mangrove forests but they are being rapidly thinned. For example, more than 82 per cent of the mangrove forests in Ayeyarwaddy Division were depleted between 1924 and 1999, according to figures from the highly-regarded non-government organisa-tion, the Forest Resource Environment Development and Conservation Association, FREDA. Even in areas where they receive government protection, mangrove forests are being destroyed. As a recent report by FREDA noted: "Forest law (can) not over-rule the social and economic needs of the people." Mangrove trees are cut down for fuel and to produce charcoal. Mangroves forests are cleared to make way for paddy fields and, increasingly, shrimp farms. The growth of the shrimp farming industry is a concern for ecologists. They cite Fisheries Department figures which show that the value of shrimp exports for the five months to August 31 rose from almost US$40 million in 2001 to $42.5 million this year. Tourism experts are more worried about the effect of deforestation on the natural beauty and wildlife diversity of coastal areas. Fewer mangrove forests mean fewer dolphins, fewer crocodiles, and fewer birds. Fewer animals means fewer ecotourists. Dr Thomas Bauer, assistant professor at the School of Hotel and Tourism Management at Hong Kong Polytechnic University, stressed the importance of protecting mangroves during a telephone interview withMyanmar Times last week. "In a world where nature is being pushed back more and more to make way for development and ‘progress’, mangroves, together with their associated ecosystems such as rainforests, must be protected," Dr Bauer said.

He referred to one of Hong Kong’s most successful ecotourism sites, the Mai Po Nature Reserve, where the "migratory birds that make the reserve famous in turn feed on the marine life" sustained by its mangrove forests. Mr Oliver Soe Thet believes that there is enormous potential for developing ecotourism sites along the coast of Rakhine State, an area with which he is familiar through his involvement in the tourism sector.  Now with the Treasure Hotel at Ngwe Saung beach, Mr Soe That has also worked at the Bayview Hotel at Ngapoli Beach, further to the west. He said other hotel owners at Ngwe Saung had told him that they had been asked by the government to conserve as many mangrove and coconut trees as possible when developing their projects. "This is an excellent step from the Myanmar government [in terms of] fostering ecotourism of an international standard," he said. Mr Edwin Briels, the marketing and incentive manager at the Exotissimo tour company’s Yangon office, eschews the term ‘ecotourism’. Mr Briels says he prefers the term ‘sustainable tourism’, which he defines as tourism that supports both the environment and traditional ways of life and is the tourist experience that Exotissimo strives to provide. All three echo the advice of the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Myanmar Program, which has achieved remarkable success in cooperation with the government in efforts to conserve the forests in the north of the country. The program’s motto is: ‘Protect first and develop later.’ It is a sound principle for ecologists and the tourism industry alike.

Myanmar Times ( Oct.14-20) , 2002-Vol.7, No. 137 )


Strong Myanmar presence for ‘first ever’ ASEAN trade fair
By Aung Kyaw Tha

bus(151002) AN unprecedented Asean Trade Fair in Bangkok this week will be a first for Myanmar, a Thai embassy official said last week. "This is the first such fair to involve all 10 Asean nations, the first to be hosted by Thailand and the first to include participation by Myanmar," the commercial counsellor at the Thai embassy, Mr Matyawongse Amatyakul, toldMyanmar Times. Nearly 30 Myanmar companies have exhibits at the week-long Asean Trade Fair 2002, which opened on October 14 at the Impact Exhibition Centre at the Muang Thong Thani housing estate in Bangkok’s northern suburbs Most of the companies are involved in the gems, jewellery, furniture and home decoration businesses, Mr Matyawongse said. The aims of the event include promoting Asean products and services on the world market and providing a platform for partnerships among industries in the 10 countries, he said. As well as business exhibits, each Asean country will be represented by a national pavilion, with Myanmar’s featuring a model of a traditional palace. Mr Matyawongse said nearly 800 booths would be featured at the fair, which is being organised by the Thai Commerce Ministry with assistance from the counterpart ministries in the other Asean countries. The fair – a biennual event – will be opened by the Thai Prime Minister, Mr Thaksin Shina-watra, at a ceremony to be attended by Asean commerce ministers. The Myanmar companies taking part in the event include the Ayawaddy (Mandalay), Khine Mingalar, Thurine Ne and Shwe Ingyin gems and jewellery cooperatives, the Than Swe wooden ware and furniture cooperative and the Sun Myanmar (Elephant House) handicrafts company. U Tun Hla Aung from Ayawaddy (Mandalay) Gems and Jewellery cooperative toldMyanmar Timesin telephone interview that 80 Myanmar nationals from the government and private sector would be in Bangkok for the trade fair.

Myanmar Times ( Oct.14-20) , 2002-Vol.7, No. 137 )


Conserving the nation’s resources

WASTE not, want not: This was a lesson that was instilled in me as a child by my mother and as teenager by my monk and mentor at the monastery when I was preparing to enter the monkhood as a novice, which all Myanmar boys of the Buddhist faith are required to do on coming of age. As a child my five siblings and I the eldest, had our meals together on a small round low lacquer table known as adaung-lan which also served as a large dish. Each child had his own portion of food and I remember how as a child we would dig into it boisterously. It was also a strict household rule that the one who finished last was responsible for cleaning up, washing and drying the dish-cum-table.  I was the oldest but also the slowest eater, and every time, it fell upon me to wash up.  My mother seeing this used to be very irritated and knock me on the head saying I was always the last because "I was wasting time unnecessarily".

When I had to live in the monastery to prepare for my novitiation ceremony, it was the same.  All the other boys finished their meal first and here again I was left to wash all the dishes. I used to pile the dishes one on top of the other to take them to the tap for washing. On seeing this one day, my mentor, the monk U Dhamma gave me a good caning and I still remember his admonishment, "The bottom of the dishes have now been smeared with oil and food, so that means you have to use more soap and more water to clean them, and it takes longer which is therefore an unnecessary waste of soap and water". Later as an adult, I realised that in my native village in the dry, hot and water sparse Shwebo District, water and soap were precious items.  But most precious of all to both my mother and my mentor was the waste of time. In addition to time, which is irretrievable, we should use wisely and not waste money, property wealth and of course our nations resources.  Since the time of our parents and forefathers this lesson in thrift has been passed down to us but how many of us adhere to this maxim. If we did, it would benefit each person, each family and the whole nation as well.

As Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe has exhorted us, we are today in the midst of building and reconstructing a new, modernised and developed nation. So especially with regard to the use of electrical power and fuel he has instructed all heads of departments at all levels to economise in its use. Government departments should be the first to set a good example. To economise on the use of electrical power, we should use the natural light of which we have on inexhaustible supply in our country of sunshine and use artificial light only when necessary. In the production and services sector also we should try to use the absolute minimum. In this way we can then fully meet the needs of our industrial and economic zones.  The increased supply and distribution would lead to increased production and this would mean open up job opportunities and also bring down cost of living for the people.  More electricity generated would further lessen the need to use diesel oil to run machinery and engines.

Among the countries in Southeast Asia, Myanmar was the first to use hydroelectric power.  We were able to build the Lawpita Hydroelectric Power Plant and I still remember how filled with joy and pride we were. Our slogan then was: "We shall build a paradise on earth with electrical power." Electrical energy plays a vital role in the State’s economy, especially in commodity production and the social sector. The expansion of production in the economic sector on the one hand and the rise of the standard of living with better health care and educational facilities on the other, all require a greater supply and distribution of electrical power. To meet these necessary demands, the Government, after 1988, has implemented 26 hydro electrical power projects, and 6 projects for the use of natural gas turbines and recycled waste energy.

So 32 new power plants are now supplying much needed electrical energy.  Compared to former figure of the supply of electricity has increased three-fold.  But, due to the progress made in industry with new factories and plants in the industrial zones, the expansion in the service sector and the population growth that has led to the setting up of new townships with residential buildings, the supply of electrical power cannot yet fully meet demand. The Government is at present implementing short-term plans for enhancing the economy and it is at work on its Third Five-Year Plan covering the period from 2001-2002 to 2005-2006. It is undertaking development of many aspects of the economy, in agriculture, industry, energy, livestock breeding and fisheries to education and health - right down to the rural areas. In an address made at the opening ceremony of a training and refresher course of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, held at the Pyidaungsu Hall of the People’s Public Relations Unit of Hmawbi, Senior General Than Shwe stated, "In order to meet the demands for electrical power of the various sectors, we have made plans for an additional generation of 2000 megawatts of electricity. This together with the electrical power that is being generated now will bring the total amount of electricity generated to 3000 megawatts."

In accordance with the guidance given by the Head of State, the Ministry of Electrical Power, beginning from 2001-2002 up to the present period of the Third Short-Term Plan, has been implementing medium and large electrical power projects in order to produce a further 2000 megawatts. The ministry is working on 21 projects including hydroelectric plants, natural gas turbines, recycled waste heat turbines, diesel turbines, steam and coal burning turbines. Of the many hydroelectric power plants, the Thahpanseik Dam Hydroelectric Power Plant, near the village of die same name in Kyunhla Township, Shwebo District in Sagaing Division was put into commission on 18th June 2002. It has a generating capacity of 30 megawatts.  This protect was undertaken at a cost of 1155 million kyats and 20 million dollars approximately. It took four years to complete construction. There are also other hydroelectric power projects underway such as the Paunglaung (capacity 250 megawatts), Monchaung (75 megawatts), Ye Ywa (780 megawatts), Kyunchaung (60 megawatts), Shweli (400 megawatts), and the Sittaung valley hydroelectric power projects such as the Shwe Kyin, Ye Nwe, Hpyu and Khabaung.

Then a coal burning electrical power plant is being constructed with a capacity of 120 megawatts near Pyinthar village in the Teekyit region of Pinlaung Township in Southern Shall State.  It is expected to begin operating about September 2003.  The target year of completion of all these numerous projects is 2006, by which time over 3000 megawatts will be generated which will more than meet the electrical power needs of the entire country. The State has indeed invested a large amount of capital to fulfill our needs for electrical power. So it is up to us to use this valuable electrical power supply systematically and economically and this will reap the greatest benefit for people and the State. The cost of these projects come from the public treasury but we also owe a debt of gratitude to the government, which despite limited resources has given priority to the needs of the people.  The onus is therefore on us to prevent wasteful use of electrical power not only in government offices and private offices but also in our homes.  And if we, the public, see any such wastage, it is up to us to take action to stop it. We should also follow to the letter, the rules and regulations regarding the use of electrical power issued by the authorities concerned. Each citizen should therefore cultivate the habit of economizing on electrical power usage with full awareness that this is the right attitude that will benefit all. We should avoid the selfish attitude which maintains, "so long as we can pay our electrical utility bills why shouldn’t we use electrical power whenever we want" without thought for the greater good. Having said that, there is one other point to take note of.

Some of us are apt to go to the other extreme and misinterpret "systematic and thrifty use" to mean not to use electricity at all.  If people are prevented from using electric lights for example, when it is already dark then it would surely have adverse effect on our work. And worst of all it would create misunderstanding and resentment among the people. "Economise on the use of electrical power where possible; let there not be wanton waste" is the motto.  In this way each of us will be doing our duty and making valuable contributions to the development of a developed and modernised state.Translator: K.K.H

Myanmar Times ( Oct.14-20) , 2002-Vol.7, No. 137 )








For further information,  inqueries may kindly be made to the nearest Myanmar Embassies or Consulates(or ) email tomission.myanmar@ties.itu.int
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