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Established in 1914

Headlines

• Special Refresher Course No 16 for Basic Education Teachers opened at CICS (Upper Myanmar) in PyinOoLwin
• Secretary-1 pays reverence to Thanthekatkyaw Sutaungpyae Pagoda, looks into construction project of Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadanabon)

Religion

• Government building religious schools, providing all necessities to monks for promotion, perpetuation of Pariyatti, Patipatti and Pativeda
• Cash donated for renovation of Sule Pagoda's prayer halls

Region

• Secretary-1 inspects preparations for Exhibition on Myanmar Women's Endeavours
• Committee for holding 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Exhibition meets
• Measures for Independence Day Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony coordinated
• Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than tours Ayeyawady Division
• Coordination Meeting for Upgrading of Yangon City held
• Regional development tasks inspected in Kyimyindine and Seikkyi Khanaungto Townships
• Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards winners for 2001 announced

International Relations

• Labour Minister receives Ambassador
• MCF, JITEC sign MoU 
• UMFCCI President receives Japanese guest
• Malaysian Health Minister visits Shwedagon Pagoda

Drug

• Opium refinery exposed in Laukkai

SPOTLIGHT

• Jades prices soar as emporium netts $8m
• Aid move on buckwheat project
• Special  shops offer wealth of knowledge about  Myanmar's history and culture

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Headlines

Special Refresher Course No 16 for Basic Education Teachers opened at CICS (Upper Myanmar) in PyinOoLwin

Role of teachers become serious and important in wider implementation of education plans at various strata simultaneously

Yangon, 13 Nov - The opening ceremony of the Special Refresher Course No 16 for Basic Education Teachers was held at Yadana Hall of Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar) in PyinOoLwin Township, Mandalay Division, this afternoon, with an address by Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

The Secretary-1 delivered an address. He said the government laid emphasis on conducting of the special refresher courses for basic education teachers. The courses were opened with the lofty aims for fifty times. The courses for Upper Myanmar were alsoÊ conducted for 16 times.

The special refresher courses for basic education teachers have been gaining momentum and expected good results have also emerged gradually. Nowadays, the State Peace and Development Council has systematically laid down plans for education reforms that can guarantee the long-term interest of the nation and people. The education promotion programmes have been systematically implemented phase by phase and with the aim of upgrading the ability and uplifting the spirit of basic education teachers, the special refresher courses have been opened. The Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee himself attended the opening and closing ceremonies of the courses, and time and again explained matters related to the guidance of the Head of State on the State's affairs, educational policies and other political affairs that should be known.

So, the special refresher courses are concerned with the trainee teachers as well as other teachers in education field. The trainee teachers who have got a chance to attend this excellent course are to try hard throughout the course to be able to practically implement the noble and lofty aims of the course. With the aim of strengthening the national economy, developing of modern science and technology with the abreast of time and for the country to be able to stand tall among world nations, the State is endeavoring to promote international relations and cooperation.

Due to the increased international relations and advancing information technology, there will be much alien penetration into culture. For perpetuation and safeguarding of national culture and characters, greater efforts are to be made with national awareness, he said. Moreover, over 100 national races have been residing in the Union for years countable by the thousand. So, national solidarity and Union Spirit among national brethren are to be nurtured and upheld as the heritage of our ancestors. With peace and stability in the country, national economic life will be strong and the country will develop.

With this conviction, the government has been making endeavors for consolidation of national solidarity. Only when the equitable development of all parts of the nation is achieved will Union Spirit flourish. In implementation of the national development, uplift of the education level of the national people plays a key role. So also the education promotion programmes and the education plans at different levels have been laid down and are being implemented in the education sector with a view to enabling the basic education schools to use modern teaching aids and creating the opportunities to pursue education not only in the urban areas but also in rural areas.

The e-Education System has been introduced to enable the schools to use modern multimedia classrooms the length and breadth of the nation and to create the opportunities to learn the higher education after laying down the development zones throughout the Union. Nowadays, the modern teaching and learning techniques and higher education are no longer meant only for the technicians and scholars; they can be learnt by all as they covered the whole society.

In promoting the standard and quality of Myanmar education, the teaching and learning techniques are being transformed into the ones which are in conformity with not only the basic education level but also higher education level. The education plans being launched at present are to be widely introduced to various strata simultaneously and the role of teachers become more and more important. The teachers will have to nurture their pupils to become those capable of shaping the future of the State according to their ability, ambition and inherent character.

It is incumbent upon the teachers to nurture their students to become those who cherish and love Myanmar cultures and customs, the national prestige and integrity and to get them imbued with the sense of participation in development of Myanmar society. In addition, the teachers are required to nurture their students to be imbued with nationalism, patriotism and Union Spirit which are vital for perpetuation of sovereignty in order that the Union of Myanmar may exist as long as the world does.

The State Peace and Development Council braving the slanderous accusations, sabotage and instigations of the internal and external destructive elements has been making all-out efforts to enable the Union to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nations of the world and ensure the emergence of a modern and developed nation and perpetuation of national sovereignty with the might of the national solidarity. He called on teachers to discharge the national duty in education sector with goodwill for realisation of the national objectives and success of national endeavors of the Government.

In conclusion, he urged them to unitedly strive for the promotion of the national education standard up to the international level so that the Union of Myanmar will be able to keep abreast with the development of other nations, to instill patriotism and nationalism into the entire national people including the students so that the Union of Myanmar will be able to stand tall in the family of nations and to make all the Myanmar nationals see the true colours of those who are always trying to drive a wedge among them with the support of and at the instigation of foreign countries by inventing false stories, to enliven national outlook, to consolidate national unity and to propagate the Union Spirit.

After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 cordially greeted the trainees. A total of 1,000 trainee teachers of states and divisions are attending the five-week Basic Education Teachers Refresher Course No 16. Rector of CICS (Upper Myanmar) Col Aung Hsan Win reported on the courses conducted at the CICS, construction of lecture halls and hostels and livestock breeding and fisheries in the compound of CICS. The Secretary-1 then gave instructions.

Secretary-1 pays reverence to Thanthekatkyaw Sutaungpyae Pagoda, looks into construction project of Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadanabon)

Yangon, 13 Nov - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, this morning left here by air and arrived at Mandalay International Airport in Mandalay Division.

Next, the Secretary-1 and party went to Mandalay by Tatmadaw helicopter and they were welcomed there by Deputy Commander of Central Command Brig-Gen Nay Win, Deputy Chief Justice U Khin Maung Lat of Superme Court (Mandalay) and departmental heads. The Secretary-1 and party first paid obeisance to ancient historic Thanthe-katkyaw Sutaungpyae Buddha Image in Hmantan Ward, Amarapura Township.

Then, the Secretary-1 inspected the documentary photos of the renovation of Thanthekatkyaw Sutaun-gpyae Pagoda and arrangements for construction of religious buildings in the princint of the pagoda and gave necessary instructions to officials. The Secretary-1 and party proceeded to the construction project site of Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadana-bon) on Mandalay bank. At the briefing hall, project Deputy Superintending Engineer U Htay Myint reported on work progress of the construction of the approach road on Mandalay bank and bole piles, and Deputy Minister for Construction U Tint Swe gave a supplementary report.

The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions to officials and inspected progress of construction tasks of Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadanabon). Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadanabon) is situated 2,000 feet upstream Innwa Bridge, linking Khawataung bank (Mandalay) and Tagaung bank (Sagaing). It is of steel beam type and 5,614 feet long. The bridge, flanked by five-foot-wide pedestrian lanes, is 49 feet wide and its clearance is 700 metres in breadth and 40 feet in height. It can withstand 60-ton loads. Later, the secretary-1 attended the 3rd Kathina robes offering ceremony of the State Peace and Development Council held at Masoeyeintaikthit Monastery, Mahaaungmyay Township, Mandalay and presented offertories to the Sayadaws and 2,713 monks and novices.

Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee the secretary-1 attended the opening ceremony of Special Refresher Course No 16 for Basic Education Teachers at Central Institute of Civil Service (Upper Myanmar).

The secretary-1 and party arrived back at Yangon International Airport in the evening. Then, the secretary-1 inspected the extension of the airport and the apron and officials of the Civil Aviation Department reported on the construction tasks with the use of scale models. Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe gave a supplementary report. Then, the Secretary-1 inspected the extended construction sites and left necessary instructions.

Religion

Government building religious schools, providing all necessities to monks for promotion, perpetuation of Pariyatti, Patipatti and Pativeda

Yangon, 13 Nov - The third Maha Kathina robes offering ceremony of the State Peace and Development Council to 2,713 members of the Sangha of Masoeyein Taikthit was held at the four-storey Dhammamaheikdhi Kyaunghsaung in Mandalay this morning, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

Before the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party paid obeisance to Sayadaws Bhaddanta Sirinda Bhivamsa and Vice-Chief of Maha Nayaka of Masoeyein Taikthit Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Raja Dhammabhivamsa. The Secretary-1 and party offered alms to the members of the Sangha.Next, the congregation received the Five Precepts from Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sirinda Bhivamsa. Members of the Sangha recited parittas.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt supplicated on religious matters, saying that of the 2,713 monks of the monastery, 195 monks passed the Dhammacariya examinations at various levels. Moreover, 300 monks of the monastery passed the Pahtamabyan examination. Thus, success of the monastery is an encouraging sign for the future of the Sasana.

All mankind on the earth will have to discard all greed, anger and delusion and find the correct path with the light of the Buddha Dhamma. Efforts should be made for perpetuation of the Pariyatti, the main source of the Sasana, for promotion and perpetuation of the Pariyatti, Patipatti and Pativeda. For the perpetuation of the Pariyatti, the government is building Pariyatti schools in every town, providing all necessities to the members of the Sangha. The Pariyatti schools and Pariyatti exam centres have emerged even in towns and villages in border areas and hill regions.

The State is also making arrangements to set up trust funds providing "soon" for the members of the Sangha. With full generosity, the government and the people are donating a set of robes for every monk of the monastery, with the largest number of monks in the nation, annually during Waso and Kathina donation ceremonies. Arrangements are under way to sink tube-wells and build water tanks to supply enough water for every monk of the monastery. Physicians specialized in the respective fields are giving medical treatment to the monks at the clinic opened with the health trust funds of the monastery.

The State itself is providing all necessities to the monks, and organizing the public to make donations for the Sasana and the members of the Sangha. Next, the Secretary-1 presented Kathina robes and offertories to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sirinda Bhivamsa.

The Secretary-1 then presented offertories to Sayadaws Bhaddanta Raja Dhammabhivamsa and Bhaddanta Panasami-bhivamsa. Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Commander Brig-Gen Ye Myint, the ministers, the deputy ministers and the Mandalay mayor and wellwishers presented offertories to the members of the Sangha.

Sayadaw Bhaddanta Sirinda Bhivamsa delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits. The Secretary-1 performed rituals of golden and silver showers to mark the success of the ceremony. The Secretary-1 offered "soon" to Chief Nayaka and Vice Chief Nayaka Sayadaws and members of the Sangha.

Cash donated for renovation of Sule Pagoda's prayer halls

Yangon, 13 Nov - A ceremony to seek advice from Ovadacariya Sayadaws and to donate cash for the renovation of the eastern and northern prayer halls of Sule Pagoda was held at the pagoda at noon today.

It was attended by Vice-Chairman of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Ratha Guru Aungmyaybonsan Sayadaw Bhaddanta Paninda Bhivamsa and members of the Sangha, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe.

Sayadaw Bhaddanta Paninda Bhivamsa invested the congregation with the Five Precepts and the members of the Sangha recited parittas. The commander and wellwishers then presented offertories to the Sayadaws. Next, the commander supplicated on matters related to renovation of the prayer halls which are in ruin. The congregation received advice from Sayadaw Bhaddanta Paninda Bhivamsa.

Later, wellwishers made donations - K 20 million each by U Kyaw Win and Daw Yi Lay Wai family of Bahan Township and U Thein Win and Daw Ni family of Shwethanlwin Co and K 3,604,444 by wellwishers. The commander received the donations and presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers. Afterwards, the merits gained were shared and the ceremony came to an end. Today's donations for the renovation of the prayer hall of the pagoda totalled K 43,604,444.

Region

Secretary-1 inspects preparations for Exhibition on Myanmar Women's Endeavours

Yangon, 13 Nov- Patron of Myanmar National Committee for Women's Affairs Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt inspected preparations for Exhibition on Myanmar Women's Endeavours sponsored by MNCWA at the Tatmadaw Convention Hall on U Wisara Road this evening.

On arrival at the Tatmadaw Convention Hall, the Secretary-1 and officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, were welcomed by Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, the ministers, Chairman of Leading Committee for Exhibition on Myanmar Women's Endeavours Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Maj-Gen Sein Htwa and members, Chairman of Work Committee Deputy Minister U Hlaing Win and Vice-Chairman of Work Committee Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and members and officials.

The Secretary-1 inspected the portrait of Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe at the central booth of the exhibition. The Secretary-1 inspected booths on facts about women's affairs committee, health of Myanmar women, prevention of violence against women, education and computer quiz, culture, environment, international relations, information and communication, economy, organizational setup of MNCWA, badge and souvenirs shop and gave instructions.

The exhibition will be held from 15 to 21 November in accord with the motto "Let's make endeavours for national development". Souvenirs to mark the exhibition will also be sold. There will be a computer quiz and Myanmar Motion Picture Asiayon and Myanmar Music Asiayon, Fine Arts Department and University of Culture will present entertainment programmes.

Committee for holding 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Exhibition meets

Yangon, 13 Nov - The first meeting of the committee for holding the booth on nation-building tasks of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Exhibition was held at the Defence Services Museum on Shwedagon Pagoda Road here at 10 am today. It was attended by committee Chairman Minister for Labour U Tin Winn, committee members deputy ministers, departmental heads, officials and guests.

First, the minister delivered an opening speech. Next, Director of Defence Services Museum and Historical Research Institute Col Ye Htut explained the distribution of prizes to the booths of departments.

Then, Committee members Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than, Deputy Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Thein Aung, Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein, Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Deputy Minister for Livestock and Fisheries U Aung Thein, and Deputy Minister for Science and Technology Dr Chan Nyein, departmental heads and officials reported on holding the booths of the respective ministries. Later, those present discussed general affairs for the exhibition and the meeting ended with the concluding remarks by Chairman Minister U Tin Winn.

Measures for Independence Day Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony coordinated

Yangon, 13 Nov - The first coordination meeting of the Subcommittee for Holding Yangon City Flag Hoisting and Saluting Ceremony of the 55th Anniversary Independence Day took place at the meeting hall of Pyithu Hluttaw Building on Pyay Road this afternoon.

It was attended by Chairman of the subcommittee Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, members of the subcommittee, military region commanders, Chairmen of the district Peace and Development Councils in Yangon, invited guests and officials. Maj-Gen Myint Swe delivered an address on the occasion.

Then, Secretary of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Kyaw Tint reported on work plans of the subcommittee. Then, Chairmen and officials of the respective groups reported on plans of their groups, followed by a general round of discussion. The meeting ended with concluding remarks by Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than tours Ayeyawady Division

Yangon, 13 Nov - State Peace and Development Council member Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than of the Ministry of Defence, left Yangon by car on 11 November morning and arrived at the top of Bo Myat Tun Bridge in Nyaungdon in Ayeyawady Division at 8 am.

Next, they proceeded to paddy field of farmer U San Myaing on Yangon-Pathein highway at Zayatkwin village-tract in Kyaunggon Township and inspected harvesting of monsoon paddy. The Kyaw Zeya paddy strain was cultivated there in 4.5 acres of land and it yielded 106.3 baskets of paddy per acre, it is learnt. Arrangements are under way to grow matpe in those fields as winter crop.

Next, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party went to Yekyi Township and inspected the cultivation of maize, pulses & beans at Yenantha village-tract. In 2002-2003 cultivation season in Ayeyawady Division, target to put 100,000 acres under maize has been made. At Yenantha village-tract of Yekyi Township, maize and sunflower are being cultivated in 5,000 acres as winter crops.

Thence, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party proceeded to Nankathu Dam near Thayet Oksu village in Ingapu Township. Officials concerned reported on matters relating to the dam, maintenance works and supply of water. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave necessary instructions. The dam was built on Nankathu (North) Creek. The earthen dam is 1,800 feet long and 160 feet high. With a diversion dam at its base, the dam is to supply water to about 33,520 acres of cultivated land. The water storage capacity of the dam at full brim is 40,000 acre-ft and its normal storage capacity is 3,020 acre-ft. The conduits and spillway have also been built there.

Later, they went to Ma Mya dam construction project site on Pathein-Monywa road, about 1.5 miles north-west of Hmyin Wataung village in Myanaung Township. At the briefing hall there, officials concerned reported on progress of work. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the construction of the dam with the use of heavy machines and gave necessary instructions. The dam is being built on Ma Mya Creek to store 70,000 acre-ft of water for irrigating 10,000 cultivated acreage in Myanaung Township as well as for preventing them from inundation. The earthen dam will be 11,800 feet in length and 150 feet in height. Its spillway and conduits will be of iron reinforced concrete. Its normal water storage capacity will be 4,500 acre-ft and that of at full brim 70,000 acre-ft.

Next, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party proceeded to Kun Creek Dam -2 construction project site near Tatkon village in Kyangin Township, At the briefing hall there, officials concerned reported on the progress of work and submitted requirements. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave necessary instructions and fulfilled the requirements. The dam is being built on Alon (North) Creek. The earthen dam will be 16,720 feet long and 135 feet high. Its normal water storage capacity will be 7,750 acre-ft and that of at full brim 100,000 acre-ft. It will supply water to about 20,000 acres of paddy fields.

Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than urged officials concerned to make efforts for speedy completion of the dam construction projects and for meeting the set standards. The earlier the projects are completed, the sooner the local farmers can enjoy the benefits of the irrigation facilities. The projects will contribute much to the agriculture sector as well as to promoting the economic lives of the farmers. Thence, he proceeded to Tun Ayeya agricultural farm of farmer U Han Tun in Magyeebinkwin village of Ingapu Township. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the cultivation of CP hybrid maize in 40 acres. They left for Hinthada in the evening.

On 12 November, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party left by car at 7.30 am and inspected round the developments of Hinthada town. Next, they went to Mahitarom monastery in Kanaungsu ward of Hinthada. They paid homage to Presiding Sayadaw Bhaddanta Indriabhasa and presented offertories to members of the Sangha.

Then, they attended the harvesting of model paddy plot of farmer U Myint Thein in Kanhla village-tract of Hinthada Township. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than also met local farmers and discussed matters on boosting production. First, officials reported matters on Myokwin Dumbi Ngawun river water pumping project. Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo made supplementary report. In delivering an address, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than dealt with matters on importance of applying modern scientific agricultural methods instead of conventional cultivation methods. Afterwards, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party inspected the ploughing works for cultivating matpe and sunflower as winter crops at the paddy field of farmer U Hla Kyi in Nyaunglebin village of Zalun Township. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party proceeded to Bo Myat Tun Bridge and inspected the preventive measures taken against erosion of river bank near No 17 pier of the bridge. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave necessary instructions to the officials concerned.

Next, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party went to Asiatha freshwater prawn, fish and integrated breeding farm at Hsamalauk village in Nyaungdon Township and inspected the successful breeding of fish there. Officials reported on fish breeding works there and Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo made supplementary report. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave necessary instructions. He also inspected the poultry farming and breeding of layers and ducks there.

Later, they inspected the Zeebyukyun station of Kambawza Agricultural and Livestock Breeding Co in Nyaungdon Township. At the briefing hall there, he met with local authorities, departmental personnel and national entrepreneurs. They discussed matters on development of agricultural and livestock breeding works. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than stressed the need to utilize land and water resources effectively in agricultural and livestock breeding works. He also dealt with matters relating to breeding fish and prawns in wetlands. Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo also urged the entrepreneurs to carry out agricultural and livestock breeding works successfully in wetlands. Maubin District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Thein Hlaing and private entrepreneurs also took part in the discussions. Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than gave concluding remarks. Afterwards, they left there and arrived back here in the evening.

Coordination Meeting for Upgrading of Yangon City held

 Yangon, 13 Nov - The coordination meeting for upgrading and beautifying the Yangon City was held at the meeting room-4 of the Yangon City Hall here this afternoon, with the opening addresses by Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Chairman Yangon Command Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Yangon City Development Committee Chairman Mayor U Ko Lay.

First, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe made a speech. He said the meeting is jointly held by the YCDC and respective ministries to speedily implement the instructions of Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt on upgrading and beautifying the Yangon City. Committees will be established to implement the tasks instructed by the General. In doing so, the YCDC and respective ministries and authoritative bodies are to make cooperation for successful implementation of the tasks. As the tasks to upgrade the city are laid down by Head of State, all are to bear in mind the guidance as a national duty and make strenuous efforts with might and main from now on.

He believed that Yangon City will be a city of international class, for the tasks will be implemented by the YCDC, ministries and authoritative bodies. Then, Mayor U Ko Lay explained the tasks to upgrade the city to be the one of international class by YCDC staff, and authorities are to make cooperation, give educative talks for the residents to have characteristics of citizens and arrangements for implementing the tasks.

Deputy Minister for Transport U Pe Than briefed matters on beautifying the ports in the city and renovation of jetties and tasks for proper drainage. Deputy Minister for Rail Transportation U Pe Than explained efforts for renovation and beautifying the circular trains, railroads and bypasses, and Vice-Mayor Col Maung Pa on tasks for cleaning and upgrading the city to be a garden city. The meeting came to a close with concluding remarks by Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe.

Regional development tasks inspected in Kyimyindine and Seikkyi Khanaungto Townships

Yangon, 13 Nov - Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, inspected the regional development tasks being carried out in the wards located on the other bank of Hline River in Kyimyindine Township, Yangon West District, this morning and fulfilled the requirements.

First, the commander and the vice-mayor arrived at Setsan of Alatchaung Ward, on the other bank of Hline River in Kyimyindine Township. They inspected tasks being carried out for the development of the ward and gave necessary instructions.

Next, the commander, the vice-mayor and party arrived at Aung Mingala Kyaungtaik in Setsan Ward and presented offertories to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Visada. Tasks being carried out for development of the ward and future plans were supplicated to the Sayadaw.

Then, the commander and party inspected the completion of construction of No-7 Basic Education Primary School in the ward and met local people at the hall of the new school.

Kyimyindine Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Tin Win reported on tasks being carried out for regional development. Yangon West District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein presented supplementary reports. The commander gave instructions on fulfillment of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council for the development of wards, construction of library and schools for the development of education sector, arrangements to supply clean water, and construction of low-cost houses for the local people.

Afterwards, the vice-mayor addressed on fulfillment of YCDC for the development tasks. Then, the commander, the vice mayor and party arrived at Salin Kyaungtaik in Seikkyi Khanaungto Township, Yangon South District, where they presented offertories to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Meda.

Next, the commander and party met with township level departmental officials, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, Red Cross Society and Auxiliary Fire Brigade, and townselders at the meeting hall of Seikkyi Khanaungto Township Peace and Development Council Office.

The commander delivered an address on tasks being carried out for the development of the township and gave necessary instructions. The vice-mayor also explained on fulfillment of the YCDC for development of the township and future plans.

Then, Seikkyi Kha-naungto Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Zali Phone Naing reported on tasks being carried out for the development of the township. Yangon South District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Sein Hlaing presented supplementary reports. The commander fulfilled the requirements. Then, the commander, the vice-mayor and party inspected the extension of circular road of the township and attended to the needs.

Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards winners for 2001 announced

Yangon, 13 Nov - Winners of Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards for 2001, sponsored by the Printing and Publishing Enterprise of the Ministry of Information were announced today.

In novels, Ko Gyi Aung Chantha won the second prize for "Aseinyaung-lwinpyin-hteka-aniyaung hnalontha" and Min Eindri Lin (Shwe Naing Ngan), the third for "Ngwelo-mala-amaylo-thala".

In collected short stories, Saw Myintzu (Pyapon) won the first prize for "Hsanda-athi"; Khin Khin Kyaw (Education), the second for Hnalontha-myohaung-tanayya and other short stories" and Nan Moe Saw Aung, the third for "Aungmyinchin-atutu and other stories.

In collected poems, Zeya Phone Myint won the first prize for "Mittathitha-ayechanya and other poems; Maung Soe Myat (ChaungU), the second for "Shwebin-ngwekhet-myaywetseinthlwa-pwintnila and other poems" and Ma Kyee Dan (Loikaw), the third for "Yinhline-khat-than poems".

In general knowledge (arts), Pho Aung Lay fetched the first prize for "Myanma-lutlatyay-kyoepanhmu-yet-sin-thamine"; Tekkatho Ko Latt, the second for "Pinlepyaw-mawkin" and Shwebo Bamahti Khin Aung, the third for "Kaba-lethwhae-loka-hma-thuta-aphyaphya".

In general knowledge (science and applied science), Maung Kyinna earned the first prize for "Hmyu-tahmon-hnin-tapwint-moeyay-taset-hnint-lenyin-tathwe"; Dr Aye Kyaw (Ziwakamma), the second for "Hsay-pyinnya-bahuthuta-diary" and Khin Pyone Yee (MRTV), the third for "Radio-athanhlinemya-ei-ayinamyit".

In belles letters, Thutaythi Ramanya Ko Ko Naing won the first prize for "Sitparagu-hnint-kabya-widu"; Min Shin Aung (Twantay), the second for "Myanma-yokthay-kyoeswe-pyinnyashin-nan-nyunt-shein" and Maung Chit Htwe (M.A), the third for "Mitta-yaysikyaung-pawka-tineyin-tha-silon-nyinyuntyay".

In Myanma culture and art, Monywa Toe Wai (Panyan) seized the first prize for "Myanma-yoeya-panyan-pantaw-pyinnya"; Ko Ko (Research), the second for "Oaktha-pegu-hanthawady" and Maung Maung Chit Oo (Monywa), the third for "Shae-haung-amyint-myo".

In children's literature, Zeya Myo won the first prize for "Mama-engineer-hnint-yadana-pankalay-mya" and Dr Hla Pe, the second for "Doe-bobwa-amway-sit-moh". In youth literature, Than Aung (Anyamyay) stood first for "Pan-pyo-a-hla-pan-a-hla"; and Soe Tint Htoo (Maubin), second for "Hnin-zi-nya-hnint-a-cha-wut-htu-to-mya".

In play literature, the first prize was taken by Zinmin (Thameinhtaw) for "Pha-yaung-yok-hnit-than-thun-yok-pyazatmya" and the second prize by Khin Le Le Chit (Myan/Gon) for "Khin-ma-wan-myauk-pa-le-dot". Professor Daw Aye Than took first prize for "Tapestry of Culture" in the translation genre.

It is learnt that no award has be given for the politics genre in spite of 12 genres in Sarpay Beikman manuscript awards.

The winners of the prizes are to inform the Editor-in-Chief of Saypay Beikman not later than 3 December at No 529-531, Merchant Street, Ph 252560, 240048, 283434 and the prize-presentation ceremony will be held at the National Theatre on Myomakyaung Street at 9 am on 6 December. The ceremony will be rehearsed at 9 am on 5 December. Manuscripts that won no awards may be drawn back in person or by letter of authority within six months of announcing the winner lists.

Those wishing to send entries to Sarpay Beikman Manuscript Awards for 2002, may submit their entries to the above-mentioned address not later than 31 December 2002. The rules of the competitions can be obtained at K 40 for postage. Winners of 13th short story, article and poem competitions of the National Motto and Literary Competitions had been announced in dailies and contact should be made with the authorities concerned.

International Relations

Labour Minister receives Ambassador

Yangon, 13 Nov - Minister for Labour U Tin Winn received Ambassador of Lao People's Democratic Republic Mr Ly Bounkham at his office at 2 pm today. Also present at the call were Deputy Minister for Labour Brig-Gen Win Sein, Director-General of Labour Department U Soe Nyunt, Chairman of the Social Security Board U Aung Ba Kyi, Director-General of the Factories and General Labour Laws Inspection Department U Tin Win and officials.

MCF, JITEC sign MoU

Yangon, 13 Nov - Myanmar Computer Federation (MCF) and Japan Technology Engineer Examination Centre (JITEC) signed Memorandam of Understanding (MoU) at MICT Park in Hline Township this morning.

It was attended by Deputy Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Vice-Chairman of e-National Task Force U Hlaing Win, Vice Chairman of e-National Task Force U Aung Myint, MCF President U Thein Oo, Vice-President Dr Kyaw Thein, Secretary U Tin Win Aung, Chairman of Myanmar Computer Scientist Association U Thaung Tin, JITEC Chairman Mr Ikuta, Deputy Director-General Mr Hideo Matsui of Information Policy Bureau of the Ministry of Economic, Trade and Industry of Japan, and invited guests.

At the ceremony, U Aung Myint and Mr Hideo Matsui made speeches. MCF President U Thein Oo and Mr Ikuta signed MoU covering the holding of IT Engineering examinations in Myanmar, supply of computer machines for Japan-Myanmar e-Learning Centre, computer training, and training of Myanmar Computer Engineers in Japan. Then, the two sides exchanged the documents.

UMFCCI President receives Japanese guest

Yangon, 13 Nov - Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry President U Win Myint, Secretary-General U Zaw Min Win and CEC Member U Hla Myint met with Adviser of Itochu Corporation of Japan Mr Tomootakahara at the office of the federation on Merchant Street this afternoon. They frankly discussed matters pertaining to promotion of the Myanmar-Japan cooperation for development of investment opportunity and trade and holding the 5th Myanmar-Japan CCI Business Cooperation Committee (MJBCC) in Yangon in February 2003.

Malaysian Health Minister visits Shwedagon Pagoda

Yangon, 13 Nov - Visiting Minister of the Ministry of Health of Malaysia Dato' Chua Jui Meng and party visited the Shwedagon Pagoda this morning and the minister signed in the visitors' book.

The visiting minister and party then proceeded to the Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) in Ziwaka Street, Dagon Township. Deputy Minister for Health Prof Dr Mya Oo, Director-General of the department Prof Dr Paing Soe and officials explained matters on research works on six major diseases - malaria, TB, dysentery, diarrhoea, diabetes and hypertension.

Next, at Pharmacological Research Branch of MID (Lower Myanmar), the visiting minister and party viewed research works being carried out for the six major diseases, records and papers on research works, display of organic compound & inorganic compound obtained from herbal plants and animals and others. Prof Dr Paing Soe, doctors and researchers conducted the visiting minister and party round there.

Accompanied by Director-General of the Traditional Medicine Department Prof Dr Thein Swe and officials, the visiting minister and party visited the traditional medicine factory of Fame Pharmaceuticals Enterprise in Hlinethaya Industrial Zone and the managing director conducted them round there. They then viewed round the factory.

The visiting minister and party proceeded to Myanma Gems Mart on Kaba Aye Pagoda Road this evening. In the evening, Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman's Office Brig-Gen Abel, Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein, Deputy Ministers Prof Dr Mya Oo and Prof Dr Kyaw Myint, directors-general and officials attended the dinner hosted by the visiting minister.

Drug

Opium refinery exposed in Laukkai

Yangon, 13 Nov - A combined team comprising local Tatmadawmen, members of local intelligence unit and Myanmar Police Force, acting on information, stormed and combed Shapanike Village and surrounding area in Laukkai Township on 28 and 29 October and seized 25 kilos of Ammonium Chloride, 50 kilos of Calcium Carbide, 22.15 litres of Lysol and 7 baskets and 5 Pyi of opium seeds.

On 30 October and 1 and 2 November, the combined team combed the same area and seized an opium refinery together with 4 tents, 675 litres of Lysol, 18 liters of Hydrochloric Acid, 67.5 liters of Acetone, 67.5 liters of Ethyl Alcohol, 45 litres of mixture of opium and acid, 75 kilos of Ammonium Hydrochloride, 5.542 kilos of opium, 28 blocks of Sudo Ephedrine, 2 glass steamers, 3 enamel funnels, one iron tray, 4 gas stoves, one barrel, 19 baskets of opium seeds, 2 M-21 automatic rifles, 2 magazines, 30 rounds of ammunition and 6 kinds of paraphernalia.

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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