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 Vice-Senior General Maung Aye inspects vegetable and poultry farms of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council
Special zones should not be only demonstration farms, but be ones helping produce food for people of Yangon on commercial scale

Yangon, 5 Nov - Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye inspected the vegetable and poultry farms of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council in Hmawby and Hlegu townships, Yangon Division, today.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye arrived at vegetable cultivation and production and chicken and fish breeding special zone at Nyaunghnapin village in Hmawby Township.

On arrival at the zone at 8.30 am, Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party were welcomed by Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win of the Ministry of Defence, ministers, deputy ministers and officials.

At Hmawbyhsan Hall of the Zone-1 Supervisory Office, the Vice-Senior General and party heard a report on the aims of the zone, establishment of three special zones, reclamation of over 12,000 acres of land, agriculture and livestock breeding in the zone, progress in carrying out land preparation work, cultivation of 26 species of vegetables, cultivation of over 80,000 flowers and shade trees, progress in conducting livestock breeding task, building of over 100 miles of roads in the zone, installation of power supply system and telephone system, water supply and formation of the special zone management committees and supervisory committees at different levels presented by the commander with the help of audio-visual aids. Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin reported to the Vice-Senior General and party on cultivation of crops and water supply and Minister for Electric Power Maj-Gen Tin Htut on power supply.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye said the State established the Nyaunghnapin Special Zone and Uto Special Zone to help fulfil the vegetable and fish and meat requirements of the people of Yangon city. Thus, the special zones should not be only the demonstration farms, but should be the farms helping produce food for the people of Yangon on commercial scale. Only then the aims of the State can be realized well. Techniques should be disseminated and collective assistance, rendered to the private sector to grow and produce fresh vegetables for the consumers season-wise for serve the their interests of the consumers' as well.

Efforts should be made for the zone to become a constant cultivating and breeding farm. Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party viewed agriculture and livestock breeding activities of special zone-1 from the tower near Hmawby Hsan hall.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party inspected samples of seeds and papaya, cantaloupe, pineapple, beans, chillies and lady' fingers at Malarmyaing seeds and agricultural equipment shop.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party went to Myanmar Agropeace Farm of Aung Engineering Co. Managing Director U Aung Gyi and officials reported on cultivation of sweet chillies and melon.

They inspected raising of layers of Shaven 579 of Aung Thukha Trading Co Ltd. Manager U Tin Maung Win reported on raising of layers and achievements.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party inspected cultivation of baby corn and lady's fingers and sample crops at Moethaukkyei vegetable plantation.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party went to special zone-2. They proceeded to OK Agriculture Centre where entrepreneur U Nyein reported on cultivation of onion, land preparations and fertilizers. Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party heard the report on cultivation work on 170 acres of land by Myanma Agriculture Service and 100 acres of land by Myanma Farms Enterprise, objectives of Nyaunghnapinkwin, targets for 2002-2003, tasks being undertaken and to be undertaken, vegetable research and crops control and conducting courses on agricultural techniques for farmers and entrepreneurs in the special zones by Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye said the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation is to undertake the tasks for successful cultivation of vegetables and other crops. He spoke of the need for the ministry to make efforts to become an exemplary plantation for other ministries and entrepreneurs. He also gave instructions on conducting agricultural research.

Minister Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin and officials reported on vegetables, crops and seeds from the farm of Myanma Agriculture Service. Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party inspected cultivation of vegetables under greenhouse technique. Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party observed tissue culture of orchid, cactus, banana, pineapple and hybrid paddy at the laboratory of MAS. Officials reported on functions of the laboratory. Vice-Senior General Maung Aye gave instructions.

Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and party inspected vegetable plantations of the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs and arrived back here in the evening.

Yangon Division Peace and Development Council established the vegetable cultivation and poultry farming special zone with the five objectives of sufficiency of vegetables for the people in Yangon city, stability of commodity prices, gaining advanced agricultural and livestock breeding techniques and increase of their income, raising of high standard of living and employment for local people and export.

Altogether 26 kinds of vegetables and crops are to be cultivated in the 12,453- acre special zone. Altogether 6,787 acres have been reclaimed and 2,950 acres cultivated in the zone. A total of 617,098 chickens and 111,700 layers are raised and 500 fish ponds have been dug.
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Lt-Gen Aung Htwe inspects Poon Creek Bridge on Hseikkhaung-Namhsan Railroad in Shan State

Yangon, 5 Nov - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence, left Taunggyi on 3 November afternoon and arrived at the construction site of Poon Creek Bridge across Nampoon Creek on the axis of Hseikkhaung-Namhsan Railroad near Seinkyan Village in Hsihseng Township in the evening.

At the briefing hall, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe heard reports on construction tasks of Hseikkhaung-Namhsan Railroad being carried out by Myanma Railways in cooperation with regiments and units under the control of Forward No 55 LID, earth works and quarry, geographical conditions of Hseikkhaung-Poonchaung-Htipin- Kaunghsai-Namhsan regions for construction of the railroad, arrival of machines and heavy machinery to the construction site from Public Works and Myanma Railways and participation of Tatmadawmen in rural development tasks in the surrounding areas of the railroad by Commander of Forward No 55 LID Brig-Gen Sein Lin.

Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation Thura U Thaung Lwin reported on tasks being carried out by Myanma Railways at Hseikkhaung-Poonchaung railroad section in Taunggyi District and Namhsam-Poonchaung section in Loilem District of Hseikkhaung-Namhsan railroad and future tasks. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe inspects Poon Creek

In-charge of Poon Creek Bridge Construction Project Executive Engineer U Hla Soe Myint reported on strength of staff at the project, construction of the lower structure and the foundation and tasks to be undertaken. Chairman of Taunggyi District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Ye Tun Sein reported on completion of 15 bridges out of 100 on Hseikkhaung-Punchaung section in Taunggyi District, remaining 70 bridges to be built jointly by private entrepreneurs with the departments concerned and Chairman of Loilem District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Myint Tin on construction for 158 bridges in Namhsam-Poon Creek section. Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint gave a supplementary report.

Then, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe gave a speech. He said that it is necessary to carry out tasks minimizing loss and wastage; workers must discharge duties conscientiously; and if the bridge will complete earlier than scheduled, it will benefit not only the State but also the region sooner.

Poon Creek Bridge across Nampoon Creek is located on Hseikkhaung-Punchaung railroad axis road near Seinkyan Village in Hsihseng Township. Approach structure and piles of the bridge is of reinforced concrete and iron frame. The approach structure A1, piers P1, P2 and P3 are of Box Caisson. Piers P4, P5, P6 and P7 are of reinforced concrete open foundation containing seven-meter long anchor piles. Pier P8 and the approach structure A2 are of open foundation. Piers P3, P4, P5 and P6 are connected with two RC plinth beams. The bridge will be 727 feet and seven inches long and it will have eight 65 feet and six inches long bridge spans and one 203 feet and seven inches long bridge span. The longest post of the bridge will be 106 feet and six inches. The bridge will have 118 feet of clearance.

The approach structure A1 is being built on 31 October. Earth works have been completed at pier P1. Piers P3, P4, P5, P6, P7 and P8 and approach structure A2 are being built. The construction tasks were started by Myanma Railways on 1 August 2001 and efforts are being made for completion of the bridge during the second week of March 2003.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, accompanied by the commander, the LID commander and the Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation, arrived at the factory for supporting the construction of Hseikkhaung-Namhsan railroad on Taunggyi-Hopong-Hsihseng motor road (Htanhsai).

They inspected tasks and products of the factory. Deputy Minister Thura U Thaung Lwin and in-charge of the factory Assistant Engineer (Mechanical) U Kyaw Win of Myanma Railways conducted Lt-Gen Aung Htwe and party round the factory. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe attended to their needs.

Next, they proceeded to PaO region Livestock Breeding Farm of Livestock, Feedstuff and Dairy Products Enterprise of the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries in Banyin region, Hsihseng Township. Farm in-charge Dr Lu Maw Aung reported on breeding of 700 layers, 36 pigs and 50 cows, distribution of livestock breeding technology for development of PaO region, tasks of local food sufficiency and breeding of draught cattle. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe fulfilled the requirements. Then, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe inspected the livestock breeding farm.

In the afternoon, they arrived at Banyin Central Agriculture Farm in Hsihseng Township. Officials reported on the area of the farm, set-up and the staff strength, tasks carried out in 2002-2003 and distribution of crop seeds. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe said that it is necessary to produce quality strains of crops at the farm and distribute them to the local growers; and he stressed the need to give modern agricultural techniques to the local farmers. He then fulfilled the requirements. They then saw over Yezin-3 strain maize and sample high-yield and quality paddy strains of the farm. Next, they inspected development tasks in Hopong and gave necessary instructions to officials.

On 5 November, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, accompanied by Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint and Tactical Operations Commander Col Han Myint, arrived at Tayaw Agricultural Research Farm of Myanma Agriculture Services in Shwenyaung. At the briefing hall, officials reported on location and area of the farm, cultivation of paddy, rain fall and research being conducted on paddy strains.

Lt-Gen Aung Htwe gave necessary instructions and attended to their needs. Then, he inspected samples of high-yield and quality paddy strains such as Zalok-4, TJ-1, Hexi-30, Kanbawza Yadana, hemp, Line-33 and hybrid-4. Next, they arrived at Heho Airport.

At the briefing hall of the airport, U Kyaw Swa Myint of Asia World Co reported on progress in the airport extension project. Next, Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint presented supplementary reports on extension of the runway in accord with the guidance of the Head of State. Lt-Gen Aung Htwe and party inspected the extension work of the runway. Later, they left the Heho Airport and arrived back here at 11 am.

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Religion

Lt-Gen Aung Htwe attends ceremony to present certificates to monks who passed Kanbawza Thamanaykyaw examination

Yangon, 5 Nov - The fourth ceremony to present certificates to members of the Sangha who passed Kan-bawza Thamanaykyaw examination, sponsored by the Atulamarazein Hsutaungpyi Pagoda's Myole Dhammayon Board of Trustees in Taunggyi, Shan State, was held at the Myole Dhamma-yon on 3 November noon.

Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe of the Ministry of Defence attended the ceremony and presented certificates. The ceremony was opened with the three-time recitation of Namo Tassa. Then, the congregation received the Five Precepts from Theindaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sandadhika. Next, Presiding Nayaka Sayadaw of Sonlun Vipassana Kamahtan Kyaungtaik Bhad-danta Agga Dhamma-bhivamsa read the Ovadakatha of State Ovadacariya Abhi-dhaja Maharattha Guru Abhi-dhaja Agga Maha Sadhamma-jotika Dhaja 13th Shwekyin Sasanarpaing Kangyi Sayadaw of Nyaungshwe. Then, Chairman of Shan State Peace and Development Council Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint supplicated on the religious matters. Afterwards, Chairman of the Myole Dhammayon Board of Trustees U Son Kyaing explained the purpose of holding the ceremony.

Later, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe presented certificates to Shin Theravamsa Lankara of Theindaung Pariyatti Sarthin-taik in Taunggyi, who stood first, Shin „anasara Lankara of Maha Thubhawdhayon Kyaung in Sagaing, who stood second, and Shin Pan–ananda Lankara of Maha Witthokdhayon Taikthit in Bahan Township, who stood third in the exam. Then, Commander Brig-Gen Khin Maung Myint presented certificates to Shin Vijananda Lankara of Mahawithokdayon Kaungtaik in Yangon and Shin Vilasara of Masoeyein Taikthit in Mandalay. Then, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, the commander and departmental officials presented offertories to Sayadaws and members of the Sangha.

Next, Theindaung Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sandadhika delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained for pious deeds. The ceremony ended with the three-time recitation of Buddha Sasanam Ciram Titthatu. Altogether 156 members of the Sangha from the states and divisions 108 in first level, 43 in second level and 5 in third level passed the examination.
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Region

I & P Minister inspects use of fuel and electricity

Yangon, 5 Nov - Minister for Immigration and Population Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, accompanied by Deputy Minister U Maung Aung and officials, yesterday afternoon arrived at the staff quarter of Thaketa Township Immigration and National Registration Department and inspected the use of electricity and power control system, power lines and fuel storage. He gave instructions on systematic use of electricity and fuel to the staff.

Construction Minister inspects roads and bridges in Bago Division

Yangon, 5 Nov - Minister for Construction Maj-Gen Saw Tun, inspected roadworks of No 2 Highway and the six-lane Bago-Yangon Highway by car.

The minister and party then went to the site for the extended construction of Ye Nwe Creek Bridge on Yangon-Mandalay Road being undertaken by the bridge special group-5. Senior Engineer Daw Si Si Than reported on the progress of the construction work and the minister gave necessary instructions to her. Next, the minister and party saw over road works being carried out on Nyaunglaybin-Pazunm-yaung-Madauk Road. Bago Division Superintending Engineer U Kyaw Lwin and district Senior Engineer U Than Naing Aung reported tasks being carried out and future work.

The minister and party proceeded to the construction project site of Sittoung Bridge (Shwekyin-Madauk) being undertaken by the bridge special group-6 and inspected the construction progress of the bridge. At the briefing hall, after hearing reports by Project Engineer U Win Aung on the progress of work, the minister gave instructions on making efforts for timely completion of the bridge construction meeting the set standards.

The minister, the deputy minister and party then went to the site for the extended construction of Baida Bridge being built by the bridge special group-13 on Yangon-Mandalay Road. Engineer U Myint Lwin reported on the work progress of driving bole piles, future tasks and earth work for the approach road.

The minister later inspected the project site and left necessary instructions there.
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Myanma Marionette Entertainment Organizing Committee holds coord meeting

Yangon, 5 Nov - The Organizing Committee for Myanma Marionette Entertainment held the first coordination meeting at the meeting hall of the Ministry of Culture on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this morning, with an address by Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung said that the 10th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions will soon be concluded successfully; and after the competitions, arrangements have been made to present Myanma marionette entertainment programmes to the people in Yangon and Mandalay. The plan has been laid down to perform marionette entertainment programmes for the local people in Yangon and Mandalay once a week on public holidays with the aims of flourishing Myanma marionette, gaining knowledge for adults and youths and developing Myanma marionette among new generation youth in accord with the instructions of Patron of the Organizing the Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

The Myanma marionette is an adorable and honorable Myanma heritage; and it is necessary to give knowledge on Myanma marionette to new generation youths as well as to present entertainment programmes to the people from abroad. Literati, marionette experts of States and Divisions and officials of the Ministry of Culture are to coordinate performance of entertainment, durability and revitalization of Myanma marionette. Then, Deputy Minister U Soe Nyunt gave a speech. Next, Director-General U Kyaw Win of Fine Arts Department reported on entertainment programme. Those present took part in the discussions.

The minister then gave the concluding remarks. Arrangements are being made to present entertainment of Myanma marionette as soon as possible.
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Anti-drug billboards opened in Tachilek

Yangon, 5 Nov - As part of the pilot project to enable Tachilek District to become the drug-free zone under the programme of eradication of narcotic drugs in the border areas, the ceremony to open the anti-drug billboards took place in front of the People's Hospital in Tachilek yesterday afternoon, with an address by Chairman of the Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing.

Then, Chairman of the Central Supervisory Committee Minister for Labour U Tin Winn formally opened the billboards. Next, Minister for Home Affairs made a speech. He said that in accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe priority is being given to eradication of narcotic drugs in the border areas, adding efforts will have to be made phase by phase in line with the eight characteristics to enable Tachilek District to become the drug-free zone as pilot project. Nowadays, the Tachilek District Anti-Narcotics Association has been formed and efforts are being made together with the NGOs for narcotic drugs eradication. This being so, the ten anti-drug billboards were put up and opened in the strategic areas in Tachilek District as part of the pilot project to enable Tachilek District to become the drug-free zone.

The minister called on the entire people to make relentless and sustained efforts in the drive to enable the district to become the drug-free zone. The CCDAC Chairman and the Central Supervisory Committee Chairman this morning met with members of district/township Peace and Development Councils, NGOs and the local people at Aung Myat Hall in Tachilek and gave instructions on the drug eradication programme in the border areas and future tasks for enabling the Tachilek District to become drug-free zone.
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UN Poster Exhibition packed with visitors

Yangon, 5 Nov - The fifth day of the UN Poster Exhibition held at the Tatmadaw Convention Hall on U Wisara Road in commemoration of the 57th United Nations Day was packed with members of social organizations, students and visitors.

Chairman of the Work Committee for holding the exhibition Deputy Minister for Culture U Soe Nyunt visited the exhibition and left necessary instructions there. Attorney-General U Tha Tun looked around the exhibition in the morning.

The Exhibition displays photos of the UN-Myanmar Drugs Control Programme, the 52nd UN General Assembly, the 20th Special Meeting on Drugs Elimination, dams and reserviours and primary schools built all over the country, agriculture and health care tasks and others.

Today, students and teachers of Botahtaung BEHSs-1,2,3 and 4; Dawbon BEHS-1 and BEMSs 2 and 3; Thingangyun BEHSs-1 and 2; Dagon Myothit (South) BEHS-3 and BEMS-2 and people visited the exhibition.
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CSSTB Chairman inspects CICS (Phaunggyi)

Yangon, 5 Nov - Chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board Dr Than Nyun, arrived at the Central Institute of Civil Service (Phaunggyi), where they were welcomed by Rector Col Win Maung and officials. The chairman and party inspected the use of electricity at the institute and gave instructions on efficient use of electricity. They then saw over the new building which has been constructed and construction of the three-storey building with the capacity of 200 trainees and left necessary instructions.

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International Relations

Minister meets Bangladeshi Ambassador

Yangon, 5 Nov - Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe received Ambassador of Bangladesh to the Union of Myanmar Mr AB Manjoor Rahim at his office on Merchant Street this morning.

Myanmar delegation leaves for Philippines

Yangon, 5 Nov - The Myanmar delegation led by Minister for National Planning and Economic Development U Soe Tha left for Manila, the Philippines, by air this afternoon to attend the high level meeting on human resource development on improvement of accountancy in ASEAN countries from 7 to 9 November.

The minister was accompanied Director-General Dr Sein Tin of Central Statistical Organization, Deputy Director-General U Win Kyi of the Planning Department, Director of the Central Bank of Myanmar Daw Ohnma Sein and General Secretary of UMFCCI U Zaw Min Win.
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National Seminar on Industrial Relations concludes

Yangon, 5 Nov - The National Seminar on Industrial Relations, jointly organized by the Labour Department of the Ministry of Labour, ASEAN and Japan, continued for the final day at the International Business Centre on Pyay Road here this morning.

The seminar was attended by departmental heads from the ministry, Technician Mr Tadashi Nakamura and officials and delegates from the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and industrial zones. Prof Daw Yi Yi Myint (Retd) of the Institute of Economics presided over the seminar and made a speech. Matters to be given priority were discussed and the Provisional National Plan of Action was proposed.

The seminar successfully concluded in the afternoon with concluding remarks by Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein.
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Tourists arrive by "Seabourn Spirit" cruise liner

Yangon, 5 Nov - Under the supervision of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, with the sponsorship of the Ministry of Transport, and under the arrangement of Insight Myanmar Tourism Co Ltd, cruise liner "Seabourn Spirit" with 194 tourists on board arrived at Nanthida Jetty here at 3.30 pm today.

The tourists toured Yangon today and will be on the trip to Bagan tomorrow. On 7 November, they will visit Shwedagon Pagoda and depart from the jetty on 8 November afternoon.

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Education

Minister inspects telemedical education system at Institute of Medicine (Magway)

Yangon, 5 Nov - Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein, inspected construction tasks of Institute of Medicine (Magway) on 3 November.

At the lecture hall-B, Director Professor U Khin Sein Maung of Medical Sciences Department demonstrated on lectures given by Professor U Nyunt Wai of Physiology Department of Institute of Medicine-1 (Yangon) from Medical Science Teaching Centre in Yangon to Institute of Medicine (Magway) through the telemedical education system. The Ministry of Health formed the Medical Science Teaching Centre at Medical Sciences Department in Yangon and is performing production of teaching aids and testing to conduct live academic matters at the centre linking with Institute of Medicine (Magway) through the telemedical education system.

The students of the Institute of Medicine (Magway) can pursue education directly lectured by professors and physicians in Yangon. In addition, important surgical operations will directly be conducted to the students at the medical institutes. The minister inspected demonstration of network teaching and giving of lectures through satellite communication system and gave instructions on performance of telemedical education system and efforts to be made for participating in the network system among medical institutions and Medical Science Teaching Centre in Yangon. Institute of Medicine (Magway) Rector Dr Than Myint reported on progress in building the institute, staff number, academic matters and functions.

The minister gave instructions on keeping the institute green and plea-sant and making efforts for better academic matters. Then, the minister inspected the construction site of the institute and gave instructions on timely completion of the construction works with meeting set standard.

The minister inspected the site for construction of the institute (Magway) and scale model. Later, the minister and party inspected lecture halls of the institute, staff quarters and greening tasks at the institute and its environs.
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List of winners in quiz contest on Tatmadaw affairs announced

Yangon, 5 Nov - The list of University, Basic Education High School and Middle School level prize winners of the general knowledge quiz on Tatmadaw affairs were announced by the 13th National Motto, Literary and Photo Competition Organizing Committee today.

At the university level, Cadet San Yu Naing of Defence Services Technology Academy, Ma Ni Ni Aung of Education College, Myaungmya, and Cadet Tun Lin Latt of DSTA won first, second and third prizes respectively and Cadet Aung Ko Ko That of DSTA won consolation prize.

In the BEHS level, Maung Wai Lin Tun of Affiliated BEMS in Seikmu, Phakant Township, Kachin State, Ma Naylin War Thein Myint of BEHS-1 in Meikhtila, Mandalay Division and Ma Ei Thiri Win of BEHS-1 in Bago in Bago Division (East) stood first, second and third respectively and consolation prizes went to Ma Sanda Win of BEHS in Namhsan, Shan State (South), Maung Hein Htet Aung of BEHS-1 in South Okkalapa, Yangon, Ma Youn Shwezin of BEHS, Namtu, Shan State (North), Maung Lin Ko Ko of BEHS, Rathedaung in Rakhine State, Maung Ye Min Hein of BEHS, Loikaw in Kayah State, Maung Pyi Sone Ko Ko of BEHS-6, Mawlamyine in Mon State, Maung Sithu Myint Aung of BEHS, Minhla in Bago Division (West), Maung Nay Lin of BEHS, Kawkareik in Kayin State, Maung Hlyan Mon Khaing of BEHS, Koumzan in Chin State, Ma Swe Swe Thet of BEHS, Kangyidaung in Ayeyawady Division, Ma The Hnin Soe of BEHS, Kengtung in Shan State (East), Maung Soe Pai Aung of BEHS, Dawei in Taninthayi Division, Maung Aye Chan Aung of BEHS-3, Sagaing Division, and Maung Kyaw Ko Ko Kaing of BEHS-1 of Magway Division. In the BEMS level, Ma Hnin Yu Htwe of BEMS-6, Pathein, Ayeyawady Division, Saw Htaw Bo L of BEMS-4, Hlinethaya, Yangon Division, and Ma Su Myat Mo Mo of BEHS, Htantabin, Bago Division (East) stood first, second and third prizes respectively.

Nan Laung Sai of BEHS, Taunggyi, Shan State, Ma Su Nandar Tun of Affiliated BEMS, Seikmu, Phakant in Kachin State, Maung Saw Hlwan Moe of BEHS, Namhkam in Shan State (North), Ma Yadana Phyo of BEMS-22, Pyigyidagun, Mandalay Division, Maung Nyein Kyaw Naing of BEHS-Rathedaung, Rakhine State, Maung Kaung Htet San of BEHS-4, Kentung, Shan State (East), Ma Lay Lay Nwe of Bo Teza BEMS, Mudon, Mon State, Maung Shein Htet Lwin of BEMS-3, Myeik, Taninthayi Division, Ma Soe Kyi of BEHS, Bamauk, Sagaing Division, Ma Aye Thazin Htay of BEHS-1, Kawkareik, Kayin State, Ma Ti Wali Hlaykai of Htantalan BEMS, Chin State, Maung Myo Nyunt of Nyaungsaye BEHS (Branch), Shwedaung Township, and Maung Zaw Zaw Htay of BEHS (Branch), Kyene, Chauk Township, Magway Division won consolation prizes.

The first, second and third prizes will be awarded on a grand scale on 5 December here and consolation prizes will be delivered to the respective winners. On 5 December, the first, second and third prize winners are to contact personally to U Ko Ko Htwe, Secretary of the organizing committee.
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Sport

Myanmar Disabled Sports Contingent arrives back

Yangon, 5 Nov - Myanmar disabled sports contingent led by Director of Resettlements of the Ministry of Defence President of Myanma Sports Federation for Disabled Brig-Gen Aung Thein, after taking part in Eighth Far-East and South Pacific Nations Sports Meets for Disabled held in Busan, the Republic of Korea, from 26 October to 1 November, arrived back here by air yesterday evening.

Myanmar disabled sports contingent took part in swimming contest, track and field and volleyball tourney in which they fetched four gold, 13 silver and four bronze totalling 21 medals. Myanmar stood 10th position out of 43 countries.
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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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