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SPOTLIGHT 

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State Peace and Development Council Chairman and Prime Minister Senior General Than Shwe to attend ASEAN Summit in Cambodia

Yangon, 31 Oct - At the invitation of His Excellency Samdech Hun Sen, Prime Minister of the Royal Government of Cambodia, His Excellency Senior General Than Shwe, Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council and Prime Minister of the Union of Myanmar will attend the First Greater Mekong Subregion Summit, the Eighth ASEAN Summit and Meetings of the ASEAN Heads of State/Government and Heads of State/Government of the People's Republic of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea and ASEAN-India Summit scheduled to be held in Phnom Penh in the near future.
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Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt receives Ambassador Joseph Verner UN Under Secretary General, United Nations

Yangon, 30 Oct - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt received Ambassador Joseph Verner Reed (Under Secretary General of United Nations) at Zeyathiri Beikman on Konmyinttha this morning.
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National Health Committee holds 36th meeting
Efforts required to refute slanderous accusations of western media and inform international community about nation's anti-HIV/AIDS drive

Yangon, 30 Oct - The National Health Committee held the 36th meeting at the meeting hall of National Health Committee at the Ministry of Health at 5 pm today, with an address by Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

Speaking at the meeting, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt said the western countries are interested in Myanmar's efforts to fight against the HIV/AIDS. Despite the government's earnest efforts to control the disease, these efforts are not known by the international community. Taking advantage of this, some news agencies of the west are making accusations that Myanmar does not pay attention to the control of HIV/AIDS. Efforts will have to be made to refute the slanderous accusations and inform the international community about the nation's anti-HIV/AIDS drive while striving to accelerate the HIV/AIDS control projects and to systematically implement the plans jointly launched by the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement. In accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe, the National Poison Control Centre has been established. Thus, projects should be laid down to carry out the task effectively.

Myanmar is achieving greater success in controlling the leprosy. In honour of Myanmar's leprosy eradication campaign, the WHO countries have asked Myanmar to host the third world conference on leprosy elimination in 2003. It has uplifted the dignity of Myanmar. By hosting the international conference, Myanmar's efforts to eliminate the disease will be known most widely and the delegates to the conference will be able to see the objective conditions of Myanmar with their own eyes, thus assisting the country to refute the slanderous accusations of the western media. In accord with the guidance of the Head of State, production of vaccines for the six major diseases in Myanmar is achieving success. Thus, efforts are required to maintain the success.

The nation will make continued efforts to wipe out the infectious diseases at the border areas in cooperation with the neighboring countries. The sector of traditional medicine is developing significantly at present. Thus arrangements should be made to hold the Myanmar Traditional Medicine Practitioners Conference and the Myanmar Traditional Medicine Exhibition on a grand-scale this year. Preparatory measures will have to be taken to control the outbreak of diseases at the start of winter. The Ministry of Health and all the health-related ministries are required to make collective efforts for further success of the health care endeavors.

Secretary of National Health Committee Director-General of Health Planning Department Dr Kyi Soe reported on implementation of resolutions of 35th meeting of NHC and interim meeting of NHC.

Next, Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein reported on matters on hosting of the third world conference on leprosy elimination of Health Ministers of WHO member nations, Director-General of Traditional Medicine Department Dr Thein Swe on formation of executive committee of Myanmar traditional medicine practitioners association, Deputy Minister for Health Dr Kyaw Myint on holding of the third Myanmar Traditional Medicine Practitioners' conference and Myanmar Traditional Medicine and Exhibition and Deputy Minister Dr Mya Oo on enacting of the blood and blood equipment law.

Those present took part in the discussions. Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa reported on preparations for health care service if found persons infected with HIV-AIDS in cooperation with the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement and the Ministry of Health.

Director-General Dr Kyi Soe reported on the resolutions for approval. In his discussions, the Secretary-1 said the government opened rural health sub centers and rural health centers and 16-bed hospital for regional development and promotion of public health care service. It also upgraded the hospitals to special hospitals.

He spoke of the need to lay down systematic human resource management plans for producing health staff such as doctors and nurses. In accord with the Head of State, more institutes of medicine were opened. Efforts are to be made for systematic arrangements for producing health staff including doctors. The meeting then came to an end.
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Region

Secretary-1 previews preparations for UN Poster Exhibition

Yangon, 30 Oct - State Peace and Development Council Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt this evening previewed the United Nations Poster Exhibition to be held from 1 to 8 November at Tatmadaw Convention Hall on U Wisara Road here. The Secretary-1, arrived at the hall at 7.15 pm. The Secretary-1 inspected the posters and preparations for the exhibition and left instructions.
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Lt-Gen Ye Myint visits Moe Ma Ma twins

Yangon, 30 Oct - State Peace and Development Council Member Lt-Gen Ye Myint, visited separated conjoined twins Moe Ma Ma Aung and Moe Pa Pa Aung at Mandalay Children's Hospital on the 79th day after the operation of the twins successfully.

They heard the report on health of the conjoined twins by Medical Superintendent Dr Tin Aye Kyi, specialists and nurses. The children are in good health and eat well. For ensuring original situation of intestines of the children, operations will be performed in November. The two children can sit well and they are being treated by the Physiotherapy Group for rehabilitation of the twins beginning 23 October.
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Lt-Gen Ye Myint tours Magway Division

Yangon, 30 Oct - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint of the Ministry of Defence, inspected the trees planted for the greening of Pakokku Station on 28 October morning.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party visited Sasana Beikmandawgyi and presented offertories to the Sayadaws in Pakokku. Ovadacariya of Pakokku Maha Wizaya Yama Kyaungtaik (East) State Ovadacariya Sayadaw Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Bhaddanta Mala Lankara administered the Five Precepts. Members of the Sangha recited Metta parittas. Lt-Gen Ye Myint and departmental heads presented offertories to the Sayadaws. Then, the merits gained were shared. Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party visited Pakokku Thihoshin Buddha Image and made cash donations there.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint inspected Hsugyipan Buddha Image on Hsugyipan Hill in the same township and viewed the greening of the township and the dams of the water supply project of Pakokku Development Affairs Department from the hill. He also inspected construction of a refectory near Nikaya Aung Mingala Shwe Kyaungdawgyi. They later visited Shwegu Buddha Image and observed the Dage (ornamental backdrop of a throne). Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party proceeded to the garment factory project of the Ministry of Industry-1 near Kywede Village. At the briefing hall, officials reported on the target of construction and tasks being carried out.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint looked into the buildings under construction and left necessary instructions. They inspected the river water pumping project of the Water Resources Utilization Department near Shwetanttit Village. Officials reported on irrigation of 5,000 acres of land, cultivation of summer and monsoon paddy and other crops and per acre yield of 105 baskets. Lt-Gen Ye Myint inspected pumping of water to the main dam and thriving paddy fields and left necessary instructions. Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party visited Shwetanttit Thayetkhan Buddha Image in the same village and made cash donations. They then met with members of Pakokku Industrial Zone Supervisory Committee and industrialists at the zone and attended to the needs. Officials reported on allotment of plots to the industrialists, types of the industries, condition of the production, arrival of raw materials, and Efforts being made in accord with the rules and regulations adopted by the State for industrial development.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on tasks to be carried out for ensuring better roads, cooperation of industrialists, respective authorities and the development affairs department for drinking water supply, supply of full electricity to the zone in the daytime and to homes and water pumping projects in night-time, transforming of the industries in the town to the zone as soon as possible, development of the industrial zone, paying tax in full and ensuring production of quality automobiles. After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party viewed traditional medicines, garments, farm equipment, foodstuff and jeeps produced in the zone.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party inspected Pakokku Airfield Construction Project north of Pakokku. Officials reported on facts about the project. Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on meeting the set standard and timely completion of the project. They inspected the work-site and left necessary instructions. Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party looked into the model plot of Myanma Agriculture Service near mile post 5/4 on Pakokku-ChaungU Road. Officials reported on the research on cultivation of green gram and pigeon pea for the first phase and sesamum and pigeon pea for the second phase.

In the afternoon, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party visited Sithushin Buddha Image in Pakhangyi Myohaung, Yesagyo Township, and made cash donations. They then met departmental officials at the office of the township Peace and Development Council. The chairman of the council reported on geographical facts about the township, rural development tasks undertaken, departmental officials, on the targets and progress in implementing them department-wise.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint said that the government was striving for building a modern developed nation after designating 24 development zones. He added that at the same time, the five rural development tasks are being carried out in accord with the guidance of the Head of State for equitable development of rural and urban areas. These tasks are to be carried out by the staff with a sense of duty. Endeavours are to be made for meeting success. Service personnel are to make field trips down to the grassroots level. In conclusion, he urged all to make zealous efforts and with Union Spirit to cooperate with social organizations to take organization measures for ensuring participation of the public in carrying out the tasks.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party headed for Minywa Rive Water Pumping Project near Shinphyushin Bridge in Yesagyo Township. At the briefing hall, officials reported on progress in implementing the project, which could irrigate some 3,000 acres of land with the use of water from Chindwin River.

After inspecting the main canal, Lt-Gen Ye Myint left necessary instructions. They spent the night in Mandalay.
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Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than inspects development works of An, Rakhine State

Yangon, 30 Oct - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than of the Ministry of Defence and party, left Myebon on 28 October and arrived at Tettaung of An.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party then went to the rice mill of An Station of Western Command Headquarters and inspected it. Commander Brig-Gen Maung Oo and officials reported on milling the paddy of Myanma Agricultural Produce Trading to raise the fund of the regiments and units. There are three rice mills which can produce two tons of rice per day.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than attended the opening of the multimedia teaching centre held at No 2 Basic Education High School in An and unveiled the signboard. It was also attended by Commander Brig-Gen Maung Oo, senior military officers of the command, departmental officials, members of the School Board of Trustees, teachers and students. First, Chairman of School Board of Trustees Col Myint Swe and Administrator of the school Maj Hlaing Myint formally opened the centre. Then, the outstanding students unveiled the stone inscriptions of Myanma Education Goal. Later, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than unveiled the signboard of the centre of the school.

Then, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the computer application & e-mail room, the computer aided instruction room, the language lab, the electronic media (video system) and (audio system), the printed media (reading corner), the domestic science room, the art room and the music room and skill demonstration of the students. Next, the opening ceremony of the multimedia teaching centre was held at the school. Maj Hlaing Myint reported on opening of the multimedia teaching centre and Col Myint Swe on efforts made for emergence of the multimedia teaching centre.

Then, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than delivered an address. He said that the multimedia teaching centre was opened with installation of modern teaching aids in the short period as a result of harmonious efforts of local authorities, members of the School Board of Trustees, teachers and townselders. Continued cooperation is needed for installation of more advanced teaching aids. The Government is implementing education plans for development of human resource with a view to turning out intellectuals and intelligentsia who are required in building modern and developed nation.

Therefore, the Government has been opening basic education schools and higher learning institutions in States and Divisions and multimedia teaching centers have been opened in the various regions in cooperation with local people and well-wishers. Universities and colleges on specific subjects have been opened in States and Divisions to see that every who comes of age becomes a graduate. Teachers are urged to produce outstanding students, and local authorities, members of SBT and local people are to continue to cooperate for further progress of the school.

After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Commander Brig-Gen Maung Oo, officials and students had the documentary photo taken. At An Township Peace and Development Council Office, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than met with local authorities, departmental officials, social organizations and local people and gave instructions on development of An Township. Township Chairman U Tun Kyi reported on the location, area and climate of the township, cultivation of monsoon paddy in 2002-2003, target for cultivation of cold season crops and summer paddy, tasks for local sufficiency of rice, growing of perennial plants, construction of dams and reservoirs, poultry farming tasks, conservation of the forest and undertakings of health, education and social matters.

Then, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave a speech. He said it was his second visit to An during the year. During the previous visit, he gave instructions on efforts to be made to achieve success in undertaking the plans laid down by the State and regional development tasks. Today, he would like to reiterate the call for equal development of the agriculture and livestock breeding sectors. In addition, local authorities and departments concerned are to organize local farmers to cultivate summer paddy, pulses and beans and other crops after monsoon paddy. For extension of the fishery sector, local authorities and departments concerned are to supervise digging of fish and prawn ponds in the livestock breeding sector. Especially, departmental personnel are to discharge duties of mother units and regional development plans of Rakhine State. An he stressed the need to pay emphasis on practising thrift and minimizing of loss and wastage.

Next, they paid homage and donated provisions to seven members of the Sangha led by Chairman of An Township Sangha Nayaka Committee MyoU Kyaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Pannadhika at the Myatswedaw Dhammayon on Dhammarekkhita Hill. Afterwards, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected development tasks in An. On 29 October, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than delivered an address at the opening ceremony of Hinywet Dam in An Township.

At An Airport, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than heard reports on construction of the runway of An Airport, progress of work, annual tasks and requirements. Senior Engineer U Thin Aung of Yangon-Sittway Highway Construction Project reported on earth work of the bypass of An Airport. They then inspected the runway, the taxi way and the apron. Later, they left An by air and arrived back here in the afternoon.
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Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than meets officials in Rakhine State
Local authorities, departmental personnel urged to strive for success of State's plans

Yangon, 30 Oct - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than of the Ministry of Defence, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental officials arrived at Sittway Airport on 26 October.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party and Commander Brig-Gen Maung Oo inspected development of Yangon-Sittway Highway. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party met chairmen of State, District and Township Peace and Development Councils and members, officers of regional battalions, departmental heads, officials of social organizations and townselders at the city hall in Rakhine State and discussed regional development. Commander Brig-Gen Maung Oo reported to Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than on location and area, cultivation and harvesting of monsoon paddy for 2002-2003, cultivation of monsoon crops for 2002-2003, designation of special crop zones, agriculture, livestock breeding and regional development of Rakhine State, cultivation of pepper, maintenance of dams, breeding of fish and deep sea water prawn, production of shrimp fry, export of marine products, cultivation of Thitseint trees (Bellaric Myrobalan) and border trade in Sittway and Maungtaw townships.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than said he was there to fulfill the requirements for development. Rakhine State is rich in natural resources and it has prospects for development. It is also a fertile region for development of agricultural and fisheries sectors. Efforts are to be made for more progress of agricultural and fisheries sectors and other production sectors. He spoke of the need to reclaim fallow and virgin lands and low-lying areas depending on the conditions for agricultural development, increase of sown acreage and double cropping. He also spoke of the need to make arrangements for increase per acre yield and minimizing loss and wastage. Townships in the Rakhine State are suitable for cultivation of beans and pulses and pepper. Plans are to be undertaken for cultivation of marketable beans and pulses and pepper.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than spoke at length on cultivation of double and mixed cropping, cultivation of 300,000 acres of beans and pulses, establishment of 100 acres and above agricultural zones and efforts to become the largest pepper-producing state, equal development in fisheries and agricultural sectors, breeding of fish and prawn and raising of poultry on commercial scale from manageable scale. Development of agricultural, fisheries and other production sectors will bring about benefits for both Rakhine State and the nation, he said. The government has laid down the plans for economic progress and is implementing them while building a peaceful, modern developed nation. It has opened more and more high schools and multimedia classrooms and universities and colleges. Special education projects including the programmes of school enrolment for every school-going age child and every grown-up to become graduates are being implemented. He called on officials concerned to participate in those projects and rural development projects with sense of duty.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected development of Sittway. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party left Sittway jetty for Minbya and arrived there at 6 pm and they were welcomed there by Brig-Gen Myint Aung of Kyauktaw Station and officials, the chairmen and members of Minbya Township Peace and Development Council, departmental officials, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association, members of Maternal and Child Welfare Association and local people welcomed them. At the meeting hall of Minbya Township Peace and Development Council Office, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party met with members of Township Peace and Development Council, township level departmental officials, those of social organizations, townselders and gave instructions on development of the township.

First, Chairman of Minbya Township Peace and Development Council U Nyunt Hlaing reported on the location and area of the township, land utilization, production of monsoon paddy for 2002-2003, arrangements for cultivation of summer paddy and cold season crops, raising of RIR chicken and breeding of deep sea-water prawn, planting of trees, cultivation of Thitseint trees (Bellaric Myrobalan) and plantation of pepper and cashew. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than explained the State's plans to develop and modernize the nation, the need for the local authorities and departmental personnel to strive for success of the plans, extension of sown acreage, cultivation of multiple crops, boosting the per acre yield, efforts to reduce agricultural wastage, boosting of catch at sea, extension of the fish and prawn breeding ponds, the pepper cultivation plan in Rakhine State, development of Minbya and implementation of the five rural development tasks.

On 27 October, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party paid obeisance to Kyeintaung Pagoda and presented books on the Three Pitaka and offertories to members of the Sangha. At Maylwan Village in Minbya Township, they cordially met with the local people. In Myebon Township, they held a meeting with local authorities, departmental personnel, members of social organizations and local people. Officials reported to them on points of the township.

In his address, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than stressed the need to develop the agriculture and livestock breeding sectors, find means ways to develop the production sector, extension of beans and pulses cultivation, the pepper cultivation project of the state, development of the town and implementation of the five rural development tasks. During the inspection of the Township Hospital, he visited the wards and the x-ray room and met with the staff.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Brig-Gen Maung Oo and officials then presented the books on the Three Pitaka and offertories to members of the Sangha at Taikkyi Monastery. The congregation shared the merits gained. Later, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party met with the secretary and executives of Township USDA and inspected the USDA Office. They then inspected the police station of the town.

Police should strive to reduce the rate of crime and ensure the rule of law and peace and stability, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than said. They also inspected the town development undertakings.
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Wai Family Gems Company donates K 2m to MWVO

Yangon, 30 Oct - Wai Family Gems Company donated cash to members of Myanmar War Veterans Organization at MWVO Headquarters on Pyay Road in Mayangon Township at 2 pm today, attended by Member of the State Peace and Development Council Chairman of MWVO Central Organizing Committee Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein.

Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Thein Sein accepted K 2 million donated by Managing Director U Tar Wai of Wai Family Gems Co and presented a certificate of honour to the wellwisher. Then, Lt-Gen Thein Sein spoke words of thanks and the ceremony came to an end.
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Armed Forces Day Management Committee meets

Yangon, 30 Oct - The Management Committee for Observance of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day held the first coordination meeting at the meeting hall of the Resistance Park this afternoon, with an address by Chairman of the Management Committee Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe.

First, Chairman of the Management Committee Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe delivered an address. He said that for observing the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day ceremony on a grand scale, tasks laid down by the Leading Committee are to be carried out beginning today. And members of the Management Committee and working groups are urged to undertake tasks of their respective sectors in time. Then, Secretary of the Management Committee Staff Officer (Grade-I) (A) Lt-Col Min Naing reported on forming of the Management Committee and working groups.

Next, chairmen and officials of the working groups reported on tasks to be carried out in their respective sectors. Similarly, officials of Myanmar Police Force, Fire Services Department, Myanmar Red Cross Society and Yangon City Development Committee took part in the discussions.

Later, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe coordinated necessary matters with those present and gave the concluding remarks.
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Lt-Gen Maung Bo attends opening of oil mill in Dawei

Yangon, 30 Oct - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Maung Bo of the Ministry of Defence attended a ceremony to open multimedia classrooms of affiliated basic education high school of Dawei Station, Dawei, Taninthayi Division on 27 October morning. 

Headmaster U Phyu Win and Chairman of the school board of trustees Lt-Col Khin Maung Hsint formally opened the ceremony. Lt-Gen Maung Bo then unveiled the signboard of the multimedia classrooms and they inspected the classrooms. At the school hall, U Phyu Win explained the endeavours for opening of the multimedia classrooms.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on matters relating to education promotion programme conducted by the State. Commander Brig-Gen Tha Aye spoke words of thanks. After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Maung Bo cordially met with teachers and students of the school.

Next, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party this morning arrived at Nyin Thway Village on Dawei-Yay Road, Yebyu Township, Dawei District, where authorities reported on arrangements for the cultivation of summer paddy and production of monsoon paddy. After hearing the reports, Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on cultivation of monsoon and summer paddy, and dissemination of agricultural techniques to local farmers. In Yebyu Township, monsoon paddy has been sown on 33,600 acres of land, and arrangements have been made to sow summer paddy on 3,490 acres of land.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party also attended a ceremony to open Kaunghtet Palm Oil Mill at U Thein SeinÕs oil palm farm in Okthayan village-tract, Yebyu Township. Brig-Gen Tha Aye and Managing Director of Myanma Perennial Crops Enterprise U Myint Oo formally opened the mill. Lt-Gen Maung Bo unveiled the signboard of the mill and delivered an address. He said in Myanmar, the annual yield of such edible oil crops as sesamum, groundnut and sunflower seeds is 0.2 million ton. With the gradual increase in population, 190,000 tons of edible oil are being imported for the local sufficiency in edible oil. The Head of State gave guidance on cultivation of edible oil crops to ensure the local sufficiency in edible oil.

Vice-Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Vice-Senior General Maung Aye himself , on his tour of Taninthayi in 1999, invited national entrepreneurs and asked them to make a survey of lands suitable for cultivating edible oil crops on a commercial scale along the motorway from Kawthoung to Dawei. Oil palms have been grown on over 70,000 acres of land in Taninthayi Division to this day. Of them, over 50,000 acres of land belong to national entrepreneurs, and over 20,000 acres of land belong to organizations and private farmers.

The per acre yield of edible oil is 300-600 viss. Winning the first prize in running a small oil palm farm, U Than Sein, the owner of the mill, brought honour not only to Dawei District but also to Taninthayi Division. Then, Brig-Gen Tha Aye also spoke on the occasion. U Than Sein explained matters related to the edible crops farm and the construction of the mill; Engineer U Maung Maung Sein, to production process of the mill. Later, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party viewed round the mill. The edible oil mill opened today is the first of its kind in Dawei region.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party paid homage to Zarli East Monastery Sayadaw U Kelasa and members of the Sangha at Saddhamma Yanthi Kyaung in Kalein Aung Village, Yebyu Township, and presented offertories. They also paid homage to Kalein Aung Pagoda and donated cash through the pagoda board of trustees. Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party inspected the medical treatment given to the people of Yaphu Village by officials of Dawei District People's Hospital at the basic education middle school of the village.

Then, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party also provided the rural health department and Yaphu BEPS with medicines, exercise books and sports equipment through officials. At 4 pm, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party arrived at Mahlwe Taung at the border of Taninthayi Division and Mon State. They were welcomed there by Chairman of Mon State Peace and Development Council Commander of Southeast Command Brig-Gen Thura Myint Aung and division level departmental officials. On arrival at mile post 105/4 on Yangon-Myeik Road in Yay Township, Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party heard reports on progress in the construction of road and bridges between the mile post 2/6 and 115/4.

Brig-Gen Thura Myint Aung made additional reports. Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on maintenance of the roads and timely completion of the bridge under construction. Lt-Gen Maung Bo and party arrived at Yay Creek Bridge Construction Site at 6.30 pm. Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation U Pe Than and officials welcomed them. Lt-Gen Maung Bo then inspected the site. At the briefing hall of the site, after Lt-Gen Maung Bo had heard reports on construction of Yay Creek Bridge, U Pe Than made supplementary reports.

Lt-Gen Maung Bo gave instructions on timely completion of the bridge, work site safety and husbanding the fuel oil. Yay Creek Bridge is 857 feet long and 23 feet wide and is of concrete reinforced type. On completion of Thanlwin Bridge (Mawlamyine), there will be direct rail service between Yangon and Dawei.
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Text Books Publishing and Distribution Committee meets

Yangon, 30 Oct - The second work coordination meeting (2003-2004) of Text Books Publishing and Distribution Committee was held at the Ministry of Information on Bo Aung Kyaw Street this afternoon, with an address by Chairman of the committee Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan.

In his address, Minister Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan called on timely publishing of the text books by 15 April 2003 and distribution of the books before opening schools and the first priority to be given to distributing the text books to far flung areas in cooperation with the Ministry of Information and the Ministry of Education.

Next, Managing Director of Printing and Publishing Enterprise U Myint Thein read out the minutes of previous meeting. The deputy ministers explained arrangements being undertaken. The minister made concluding remarks.
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Commander meets secretaries & executives of USDAs

Yangon, 30 Oct - Patron of the Union Solidarity and Development Association of Yangon Division Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe met with secretaries and executives of division/district/township USDAs at the meeting hall of the association in Bahan Township at 8 am today and gave instructions on regional development tasks.

The commander said the Head of State gave guidance on low-cost single unit housing projects to be conducted by the Ministry of Forestry for enabling the rural people to live in appropriate houses. The project also cover suburban areas of Yangon Division. Therefore, it is necessary for USDA members to conduct a census of those who are not government employees and those who do not own a house. Afterwards, the meeting came to an end.
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Work coord meeting of MNWCWA held

Yangon, 30 Oct - The work coordination meeting (3/2002) of Myanmar National Working Committee for Women's Affairs was held at MICT Park in Hline Township this afternoon.

Deputy Minister U Hlaing Win made a speech. Next, Vice Chairperson-2 Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and Secretary of MNWCWA Secretary of the work committee for holding the exhibition Director-General of Social Welfare Department U Sit Myaing explained the arrangements for the exhibition. Then, Director of the Department of Cultural Institute Daw Nu Mra Zan and persons in charge of the booths for the exhibition reported on their arrangements.

Those present took part in the discussions and the meeting ended with concluding remarks by the deputy minister.
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Rural development projects inspected in Mandalay, Sagaing and Magway Divisions

Yangon, 30 Oct - CEC Member of the Union Solidarity and Development Association Minster for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, from 26 to 29 October made a tour of the townships and villages in Mandalay, Sagaing and Magway Divisions and inspected rural development activities of the USDA and the Ministry of Information' s information, educative and entertainment works. 

On 26 October, the minister presented offertories donated by his family, and families of the staff of the ministry to Yaydaw Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Pannavamsa and members of the Sangha and offered "soon" to members of the Sangha. Then, the minister inspected Sarpay Beikman Library of the ministry on the first floor of Mandalay Yadanabon Market and gave instructions on effective use of the electronic library room, maintenance of books and periodicals, efficient use of electricity and following of guidelines of the ministry.

In the afternoon, he inspected the Information and Public Relations Department in ChaungU, Sagaing Division, and left necessary instructions. The minister visited Bawdi Tahtaung Kyaungtaik in Monywa and paid reverence to Bawdi Tahtaung Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Narada. The minister and wife Daw Kyi Kyi Win and family donated K 200,000 for renovation of 222 feet long Shwethalyaung Reclining Buddha Image and U Thein Myint and wife Daw Moe Sanda Tun and family, K 200,000 to the Sayadaw.

Then, they viewed the renovation of the image. The minister inspected the TV retransmission station near the Phayagyi Hill and gave necessary instructions. The minister met with the staff of the Information and Public Relations Department, Myanma Radio and Television and film enterprises in Monywa District at the IPRD in Monywa. Then, he laid down tasks for becoming active, sharp and highly qualified ministry, carrying out these tasks with goodwill and bright ideas and four outlooks, making field trips down to the grassroots level for carrying out information tasks, ensuring arrival of newspapers at every villages and opening of rural libraries. On 27 October, the minister met with the officials and discussed water supply at Tebin Village in Yinmarbin Township and presented gifts to the local people.

The minister attended the ceremony to unveil the billboard bearing "Build modern developed nation through education" at Yinmarbin Village Basic Education High School. The minister looked into the IPRD in the township and left necessary instructions. At the hal1 of the township, the minister presented gifts to the students who won the matriculation exam (2001-2002) with distinctions and K 50.000 for school uniforms of the teachers. He also presented exercise books to the primary students and clothes, foodstuff and others to USDA members. Then, Managing Director of Ayeya Min Thein Construction Co in Mandalay U Thein Myint presented cash awards to the blood donors (50 times and above) and two-distinction winners.

The CEC member met departmental officials, members of the USDA, NGOs, the staff of the ministry, students and their parents and discussed tasks for development of the township and rural area and clarified the guidance of the Head of Statestriving for promotion of the' education standard of the students, and all-out efforts to be made for building a modern  developed nation through education.

Then, the minister attended the opening of Lin Yaung Chi Library of Lepauk Village, Yinmarbin Township and presented books to the library and gifts to the villagers. He dealt with the State's rural development projects and national duties  being carried out by the USDA. He urged the people to take part in these tasks. He visited Magyidan USDA village, Hnawkan USDA village, Thabyegon USDA village and U Hnauk USDA village and presented gifts to the villages and fulfilled the requirements. He explained the low-cost housing project being implemented by the State for rural development. In the afternoon, he attended the ceremony to unveil the billboard bearing "Build Modern Development Nation through Education" held at Mintaingbin BEHS in Pale Township. Later, he headed for Kyaukphyakan USDA village and presented gifts to the villagers and attended to their needs.
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International Relations

Appointment of Ambassador of Kuwait agreed on

Yangon, 31 Oct - The Government of the Union of Myanmar has agreed to the proposed appointment of Mr Ali Hussain Al-Sammak as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the State of Kuwait to the Union of Myanmar in succession to HE Mr Mohamad Ahmad Al-Mijrin Al-Roomi.

Mr Ali Hussain Al-Sammak was born on 6 October 1953. He obtained Bachelor of Arts in Law from Kuwait University in 1974. He also obtained Diplomas in public and private International Law from the International Court of Justice in the Hague. He joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait in November 1974 and has served in various capacities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and at the Kuwaiti Embassies in Brussels and the Hague.

At present, he is serving as Ambassador the State of Kuwait to Bangladesh. Mr Ali Hussain Al-Sammak will be concurrently accredited to Myanmar with residence in Dhaka. Mr Ali Hussain Al-Sammak is married and has two sons and a daughter.
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Yunnan delegation concludes visit

Yangon, 30 Oct - The 6-member delegation led by Vice-Governor Mr Chen Xunru of Yunnan Province, the People's Republic of China, left here by air this afternoon after its visit here at the invitation of the Ministry of Mines. The delegation was seen off at Yangon International Airport by Deputy Minister for Mines U Myint Thein, officials of the departments and enterprises under the Ministry of Mines, Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar Mr Li Jinjun and embassy staff.
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PRC Journalist delegation leaves

Yangon, 30 Oct - The journalist delegation of the People's Republic of China led by Deputy Director Mr Zhang Liang of International Department left for home by air this afternoon.

During their stay in Myanmar, they visited Myanma cultural heritage and industries. The delegation was seen off at Yangon International Airport by Director (News) of the News and P'eriodical Enterprise U Hla Tun, officials of PRC Embassy and officials.
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Religion

Cash donated for repair of ancient pagodas in Bagan

Yangon, 30 Oct - A ceremony to present cash to the renovation of Bagan ancient pagodas and the Htidaw and Seinbudaw hoisting of the Lawkananda Tooth Relic Pagoda took place at Kambawza Yeiktha on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this morning.

Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung attended the ceremony and presented certificates of honour to wellwishers.

A total of nine wellwishers made cash donations of K 198.5 million for the maintenance of pagodas in Bagan - K 180 million by Chairman of Ruby Dragon Co U Nay Win Tun and wife Daw ye Aye Myint; K 4.5 million by U Aung Zaw Myint and Daw Khin Toe Yin and family of Winner Computer Group; K 3 million by Capt Win Tint (Rtd) and Daw Khin Mya Mya and family; K 1 million by Thukhitayama Sarthintaik Sayadaw and his laity; K 1 million by U Khin Maung Gyi and Daw Hla Hla Than and family; K 750,000 by U Ohn Myint and Daw Myint Myint and family; K 600,000 by Daw hin Khin Thein (Kyaukse) and family; K 300,000 by Daw Yin Yin May and family; and K 100,000 by Daw Chulam (Canada) and family.

Similarly, a total of five wellwishers made cash donations of K 11.5 million for the Shwehtidaw - K 5.2 million by Daw Khin Thet Tin and family; K 2.7 million by U Maung Maung Lwin (Lwin Family Construction) and Daw Sein Sein and family; K 1.7 million by U Tin Aung and Daw Hla Hla Nwe ( Win Yadana Tour) and family; 1.2 million by U Tun Aye and Daw Ni Ni Win and family; and K 700,000 by U Tin Htut and Daw Thin Myat Myat Win and family.

Likewise, a total of eleven wellwishers also donated K 1.92 million for the Lawkananda pagoda - K 620,000 by Ashin Vinaya and yogis of Kaba Aye Sunlungu Kyaung; K 300,000 by Lt-Col Min Lwin and Daw Khin Thida and family; K 200,000 by U Lin Teik Whee and Daw Wati and family; and K 100,000 each by U Maung Kyin and Daw Khin Than Myint and family, Daw San San Nwe and family, U Kyaw Nyunt and Daw Ohn Kyi and family, U Ni Zhan Lian and Daw Zin Win Khaing and farnily, U Thurein and Daw Mya Mya and farnily, Ko Tin Nu and Ma San San Nwe and family, U Thaw Zin and Daw Khin Oo Thwin and family, and Ambassador U Maung Maung (7) and Daw Khin Myint Myint and family.

Maj-Gen Kyi Aung later presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.
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Sport

Myanmar gets 3 gold, in disabled athletes games

Yangon, 30 Oct - The 8th Far Eastern and South Pacific Nations Disabled Athletes Games continued at Busan, the Republic of Korea, in which 43 countries are taking part. In the games, the Myanmar team won 3 gold, 7 silver and 2 bronze and secured the eleventh position. In the men's volleyball tournament, Myanmar team beat Sri Lankan team 3-0, it is learnt.
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Culture

Performing Arts Competitions continue for 12th day

Yangon, 30 Oct - The 10th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continued for the 12th day at the respective places today.

At the National Museum, altogether 16 persons took part in the amateur level (men's) religious song contest and 16 in the basic education level (aged 10-15) girls' old/modern song contest. On 31 October, the amateur level (women's) classical song contest and the basic education level (aged 10-15) boys' classical song contest will be held at the same venue. At Kanbawza Theatre, 15 contestants participated in the amateur level song composing contest. The song composing contest continues at the same venue tomorrow.

At the National Theatre, five competitors took part in the professional level (women's) xylophone contest and seven in the basic education level (aged 15-20) boys' xylophone contest. On 31 October, the higher education level Ozi contest and the basic education level (aged 10-15) Ozi contest will be held. At Padomma Theatre, six persons of States and Divisions participated in the professional level dobat contest, and seven in the basic education level (aged 10-15) dobat contest.

On 31 October, amateur level (men's and women's) harp contest and the basic education level (aged 5-10) boys' and girls' harp contest will be held at the same venue.
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Economic

142 lots of jade fetch over US$ 1.3 million

Yangon, 30 Oct - Mid-Year Myanmar Gems Emporium, 2002, continued for a second day today and lots of jade were being sold this morning through competitive bidding. Local and foreign gem merchants purchased 142 lots of jade worth US $ 1,304,856 today. Merchants purchased 38 lots of jade worth US $ 275,466 from 5 pm to 7 pm yesterday. Yesterday alone, a total of 202 lots of jade worth US $ 2,047,919 were sold. And the jade sales continued in the evening. Competitive bidding of jade lots will continue tomorrow.
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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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