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WWW.MMTIMES.COM EXCLUSIVE 6
Former Thingangyun township residents protest in downtown Yangon on September 23.
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PHOTO: AUNG HTAY HLAING
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Hundreds of former Thingangyun township residents who were evicted in 1990-91 by the military say they plan to launch full-time protests to highlight their appeal for the land to be returned. The residents have staged seven protests to date but say the government has failed to respond to their calls for a fair resolution.
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THE INSIDER:
Dont burn your mosquito nets just yet... Celebration over a purported new cure for dengue fever last week may have been premature, with claims made by Australian scientist Dr Reynolds being dismissed as a scam. Microbiologist Dr Reynolds issued a press release this week claiming he and his team had developed a product called 98Alive, touting it as a cure for all four strains of dengue fever. Queensland Health, an Australian state department, said the product should be regarded as little more than a herbal supplement. Physicians confirmed that any breakthrough of the sort would have been announced in a peer-reviewed scientific publication, rather than a press release. On the 98Alive website, Dr Reynolds says he donates his time as a professor at Griffith University in Brisbane. A Griffith University spokesman, however, said Dr Reynolds ceased working for the institution in June 2012, and was no longer a professor. For anybody to say its a scam is really quite strange, because all of our work was done under the auspices of the Indonesian Ministry of Health, said Dr Reynolds. Bill Gates wishes he could ctrl+Z the PCs ctrl+alt+del function Microsoft founder Bill Gates made headlines last week when he shed light on the beginnings of the ctrl+alt+del function, and how it was actually a mistake. We couldve had a single button, but the guy who did the IBM keyboard design didnt want to give us our single button, Gates said. David Bradley, the engineer who actually coded the command, says the designers wanted a one-button reboot and originally intended it to be an Easter egg, but his shortcut caught on with the engineering team and they just left it. It was like a five-minute job, he said, I didnt realise I was going to create a cultural icon when I did it.
This photo, featured on the cover of a 1971 issue of Oh Way journal, was taken in 1938 or 1939 when sci-fi luminary and War of The Worlds author HG Wells (centre, sporting a bow tie) paid a visit to the Yangon University Rowing Club.
Style Statement
Myat Thu Kyaw & Wint Yamone Hlaing for NOW! magazine. Photo: Pyay Han (Colormax)
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News 3
A young chef takes part in the Yangon Culinary Young Chefs Challenge in Yangon on September 26. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing
The number of changes President U Thein Sein has proposed to the draft Telecommunications Law
Oo of actively working to harm the interests of MCM and its publications. Dr Tin Tun Oo has blocked The Myanmar Times going daily. At the same time he has commenced his own daily newspaper, called Pyi Myanmar Daily. In addition to the statement from
head council U Aung Than Soe, the defence team also provided a series of affidavits from the companys department heads in which they said closing MCM would leave 350 employees jobless and harm the livelihoods of their families. The statement emphasised this point as well. [Dr Tin Tun Oos] actions show a lack of empathy and concern for the hundreds of people that work [at MCM]. The hearing was adjourned after less than 10 minutes. The next session will be held on October 10. Ross Dunkley, the companys managing director and co-founder, said he is confident that the court will find in his favour. Dr Tin Tin Oo could not be reached for comment.
The Joint Bill Committee agrees with most of the presidents remarks except for some proposed amendments to the Telecommunications Law. We cannot give any more detail than that at this point, he said. MPs will likely discuss and vote on the proposed changes when the session opens on October 1. The final version will be enacted within seven days. We will give priority to the three bills that were sent back to Pyidaungsu Hluttaw by the president ... I hope these three laws will be discussed and passed on the first day of the eighth session. Translated by Thiri Min Htun
4 News
A peace activist yells through a megaphone during a march through Yangon on September 21. Photo: Lwin Ko Taik
WIN KO KO LATT
winkolatt2012@gmail.com
POLITICAL dialogue will begin in early 2014 if a proposed nationwide ceasefire is signed at the end of October, the governments chief peace negotiator has told armed ethnic groups. The political dialogue would lead to the holding of a national peace conference sometime in 2014, said U Aung Min, who is also a minister in the Presidents Office. He revealed the time frame for political talks on the first day of a three-day meeting in Taunggyi from September 21 to 23 that was aimed at building trust with armed ethnic groups from Shan, Kayah and Mon states.
The government plans to invite all 16 armed ethnic groups to the ceasefire ceremony but has already been forced to delay it once because of resistance from ethnic groups. U Aung Mins comments appear designed to address concerns from some groups that the peace talks could founder after signing the nationwide ceasefire and not proceed to political dialogue. Of the 16 ethnic armed groups, only two the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) and the Ta-aung
National Party are yet to sign a ceasefire agreement. U Aung Min also promised to ensure that the peace process is inclusive and extends beyond high-level agreements between the government and leaders of armed ethnic groups. He said the talks would include all stakeholders, including political parties, parliamentarians, government officials, the military and civil society groups. He also responded to rumours that responsibility for the peace process would be handed over to the parliament if the nationwide ceasefire is signed, describing it as a misunderstanding. Aside from the nationwide ceasefire, the Taunggyi meeting focused mainly on amending the 2008 constitution and the need for a conference to finalise a political settlement between all groups in the mould of the one held at Pinlon in February 1947, which led to Myanmars independence the following year. Observers, including ethnic figures, 88 Generation leader Ko Ko Gyi and lawyer U Ko Ni, highlighted the shortcomings of the 2008 constitution and the need for changes. Unless we reach a political agreement, we cant hope for peace, said U Sai Nyunt Lwin, secretary of the Shan Nationalities Democratic Party. U Aung Min said the discussions would move political dialogue in a positive direction, while U Aung Naing Oo from the Myanmar Peace Center also played up the positives of the talks. Noting that previous peace talks were mainly confined to discussions between the Tatmadaw and ethnic armed groups, he said the meeting had included a broad range of stakeholders, including political parties, armed ethnic groups, civil society organisations and more. Translated by Zar Zar Soe
BRIEF
Mitsubishi donates lab tools
Mitsubishi Electrics Myanmar subsidiary has donated laboratory equipment to the Myanmar Maritime University. Peace Myanmar Electric handed over the equipment at a ceremony in Yangon on September 21. This equipment will help students develop their practical skills in the laboratory alongside their theoretical knowledge, said rector U Myat Lwin. This is necessary for nurturing qualified experts at our school. Peace Myanmar Electric marketing director U Khin Maung Myat said the company wanted Myanmar students to have the same opportunities as their peers in other countries. We decided to support the maritime university because their teaching approach is very practical, he said. Shwegu Thitsar
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News 5
Residents gather outside the home of Ko Zaw Latt, one of the targets of the police raid, on September 19. Photo: Supplied
It makes you wonder whether the police are really there to protect the people.
Resident of We Gyi village
instructed police to file three charges against five residents over the conflict. We will just work according to the law. We wont let our personal feelings get in the way, said Police Lieutenant Sein Thaung, head of Kyi Taung Kan police station in Pobbathiri. But more villagers could be charged, said Police Second Lieutenant Win Bo from Pobbathiri township. We plan to question the remaining villagers who have been accused, he said.
He defended the methods used by police in the September 19 arrest. We have a duty to arrest the people who have been charged. Villagers shouldnt attack police. They way they are trying to solve the problem is wrong, he said. If villagers dont want to be arrested they can run away but they shouldnt physically resist arrest. Residents said they are living in fear of a third raid on their homes. Villagers saw and felt terror about the second raid They are concerned that the next raid will be
worse, said one resident. The raid is the result of a dispute between the Ministry of Information and We Gyi village residents over land confiscated by the ministry. The ministry says it has paid compensation but some residents say they have received nothing. The original charges were prompted by some villagers clearing trees from ministry land so that they could farm it. They were subsequently charged under section 6(1) of the Government Property Protection Law. Translated by Thiri Min Htun
6 News
SENIOR international political leaders have stepped into the row over inter-communal violence in Rakhine State and elsewhere. Former US President Jimmy Carter, accompanied by former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari and former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland came to Myanmar last week to talk to senior government officials and political and religious leaders.
The three are members of The Elders, a group formed by former president of South Africa Nelson Mandela to speak out on major international issues. At a press conference in Yangon last week the three called for the end of impunity for the perpetrators of violence against the Muslim community and for the meaningful realisation of the
right to freedom of religion. This is a very serious problem for the world community, Mr Carter told a press conference at Yangons Strand Hotel on September 26, referring to the inter-communal strife that has left hundreds dead and tens of thousands in displaced persons camps. He called on the government to address the question of citizenship for the Rohingya, who are officially referred to in Myanmar as Bengalis. Its a key test of whether Myanmar is going to honour international standards of human rights, said the former president. During their three-day visit, the Elders met with President U Thein Sein, Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Union Election Commission chairman U Tin Aye and other senior officials, as well as political and religious leaders, and representatives of ethnic armed groups. The targeted violence against the Muslim minority in Rakhine State should be halted as a priority, Ms Brundtland said at the press conference. She called for the rights of everybody in Rakhine to food, education and security to be fulfilled regardless of their religion. No one can afford to ignore these senseless, destructive, repeated acts of brutality, she said. In their first visit to Myanmar, the Elders praised the changes that have occurred over the past two years, including political reforms, the release of political prisoners, peace negotiations and the abolition of pre-publication censorship. Myanmar is becoming a more open society, Mr Carter said, but there is still a long way to go.
IN PICTURES
President U Thein Sein poses for a photograph with (from left) former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Harlem Brundtland, former United States President Jimmy Carter and former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari, at the presidents residence in Nay Pyi Taw on September 25. The president met the three members of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who work together for peace and human rights, to discuss the governments efforts toward achieving peace and improving the countrys human rights situation.
EXCLUSIVE
8 News
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Views
Daw Aung San Suu Kyi attends the Forum 2000 Conference in Prague on September 17. Photo: AFP
studying at the University of Cambridge. Sonia was an Italian, born in Lusiana, Italy. When Rajiv Ghandi later became the prime minister of India, the fact that he was married to an Italian was never an issue. After he was assassinated, Sonia became the current president and leader of the Indian Congress Party. She is believed to be the most powerful woman in India today. Nicolas Sarkozy, president of France from 2007 to 2012, divorced his first wife Cecilia, who was French, and married Italian Carla Bruni, who was born in Turin, while in office. The leader of the UKs Liberal Democratic Party, Nick Clegg, is married to Miriam Durantez, who is Spanish. He currently serves as the countrys deputy prime minister.
The basic principle of democracy is that the people vote to elect the best person for the job.
Prince Philip of Great Britain, husband of Queen Elizabeth II, was first Prince Philip of Greece. Queen Elizabeth is not only queen of Great Britain but also head of state of members of the Commonwealth of Nations, with unrivalled popularity at home and abroad. Prince Albert of Monaco married Charlene Woodstock of South Africa; his father and predecessor, Prince Rainier, married Grace Kelly of the United States. In the examples above, the respec-
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tive countries and principalities have not suffered due to a head of state or senior member of government marrying a foreigner; nor have the countries or principalities been undermined. Daw Suus enormous, decades-long popularity shows it does not hold her back here either. There is another impediment restricting her from being eligible for the presidency: Her two sons hold British citizenship. It is important to point out, however, that this is not by choice. Both were Myanmar citizens until 1989, when the military junta stripped them of their status out of spite toward Daw Suu. The UK government granted them British status only to prevent them from becoming stateless. For the current government to continue to punish Daw Suu as a result of the juntas past treatment of her family is absurd. But the most wide-ranging clause written into the constitution that could be used to bar her and for that matter, the vast majority of the people of the country from holding the presidency is that candidates must be well acquainted with military affairs. Without clear guidance on what this means, this could be used to disqualify candidates without a military background at will. This requirement, together with the retention of 25 percent of seats in parliament for serving military personnel, is a travesty of democracy. It is tantamount to trying to deceive not only the people of Myanmar but also the international community as a whole with a thinly veiled attempt to perpetuate military dictatorship. In democracies elsewhere in the world, presidents, prime ministers and heads of state have been lawyers, doctors, professors, writers, businesspeople, trade unionists and so on
and, yes, even former military officers, if the people decide they are the best for the job. The primary requirement for a presidential candidate must be that he or she is a citizen of the country. Beyond this, the people should decide based on the integrity, probity and loyalty of the candidate. In its present form, however, the constitution is a laughing stock among the family of nations. The basic principle of democracy is that people vote to elect the best person for the job: the person with the right kind of political principles, convictions and calibre to represent them. Then, according to the constitution, the peoples elected representatives choose from among themselves the person best suited for the post of the president. Naturally, the political party which wins the greater proportion of the seats in parliament would propose its own leader. But if that party, in 2015, is not allowed to do this freely, the elections will have been for naught. How we constitute the governance of the country will determine whether or not we achieve the kind of society we want. The constitution needs to be redrafted with the welfare of the country in mind, for now and for the future. It must be rewritten by the elected representatives of all ethnic groups of the country, free from the coercive influences of any one section of society. Until the people can choose their president freely, without limitations based on marriage, children with foreign citizenship, or military experience, this democracy can never be truly democratic.
Peter Soe-Wynn served as a paediatrician with the National Health Service in the UK from 1979 and is now retired. He is a supporter of democratic and social change in Myanmar.
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Views
LETTER
Dear editor, I am writing in response to Douglas Longs article published in your September 23 edition (Thandaung opening up? Not quite yet), which provided a useful picture of the confusion that has plagued the relaxation of travel restrictions. I recently visited Thandaung Gyi with relatives from abroad but, unlike your correspondent, experienced few problems. I would suggest that his difficulties stemmed from the fact he rode his bicycle, which is almost certain to set off alarm bells (for no good reason, admittedly); failed to take passport photocopies; and stayed overnight in the town. Or maybe we just picked the right day to attempt the visit and the
News 9
ON September 16, Singapores postindependence hero, Lee Kuan Yew, marked his 90th birthday. He has led an amazing life and though a ruthless old curmudgeon he has always been among the most rewarding interview subjects. After our first joust in 1991, I attended Singapores National Day reception and saw him standing alone in a corner ringed by security men. Taking a deep breath, I strolled over and thanked him for the interview. It had been a good one and Asiaweek had run it as the cover story. Lees eyes narrowed and he gave me a long glacial gaze. To break the silence, I blurted out that I hoped hed been happy with the story. He pounced. Oh? Is that important? Does it matter whether I am happy or unhappy with it? If only words had come from my mouth earthy expletives preferably. But I was flummoxed, my mind swirling. Remind me, what interview was this? he said.
Former Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
The ruling did not faze Lee. He quickly abolished the right of appeal to the Privy Council and JBJ was gone. Soon afterward, so was I. But not before taking Jeyaretnam to lunch at that bastion of the establishment, the Singapore Cricket Club. Boy, did that feel good. And anyway, Id done three years as a foreign correspondent in Singapore; it was long enough. JBJ died in 2008. And Times winged chariot is hurrying upon Lee. But for now: Happy Birthday, you vicious old coot. I mean it.
police were in a good mood. Nevertheless, the paucity of information made available by the authorities shows an almost complete lack of regard for foreign visitors. Hopefully your article will prompt them to lift their game in this regard as the majority of tourists will not take the risk of visiting places that may or may not be open. This would be a shame, as there are countless destinations like Thandaung Gyi that are of interest to foreigners but still in this grey area. In the case of Thandaung Gyi, the spectacular drive up into the mountain mist makes the trip more than worthwhile. Regards, Ko Sai
Lets hope he goes quickly and painlessly, though that is not the way he treated his opponents.
His wife, a proverbial dragon lady, whom he described as an intellectual equal and soulmate, thankfully moved forward at that moment and I introduced myself to her. She said, You are in a difficult position as a journalist in Singapore, Mr Mitton. If you tell the truth you will get into trouble from my husband; if you dont tell the truth you will get sacked by your editor. Lee cracked a sliver of a smile as if the oracle had spoken, then they turned away, dismissing me like a speck of dust brushed off a sleeve. The dismissal turned out to be not only from their presence that evening but also from Singapore itself; for soon
afterward, the authorities refused to renew my visa, forcing me to leave the country. Still, other interviews were later granted, and in a final long and fruitful session that revolved around the publication of his memoirs, Lee kindly signed a copy of his book for me. On the title page, he wrote, To Roger Mitton, with my best answers to your spiky questions. Lee Kuan Yew. You gotta like the guy. His dragon lady died three years ago and now he is 90 and knocking on heavens door. Lets hope he goes quickly and painlessly, though that is not the way he treated his opponents. They were many and all were cruelly dispatched: His rival Peoples Action Party (PAP) leader Ong Eng Guan, his countrys former president Devan Nair, its former solicitor general Francis Seow, and myriad pesky journalists. None, however, suffered more brutal and malicious torture than the opposition Workers Party leader, Joshua Benjamin Jeyaretnam. Lee loathed him because JBJ was fearless and refused to be cowed by the PMs thuggery, and because he broke the stranglehold of Lees PAP and won the 1981 Anson by-election. That result was a thunderbolt: It marked the first time since independence that one of Lees men had lost an election. Once in parliament, where it was him against 74 government MPs, Jeyaretnam gave them hell. Lee and his front bench could not take it. Grounds were found to charge JBJ with misreporting party accounts. He was convicted, jailed, deprived of his seat and disbarred from practising law. Undaunted, he appealed to the Privy Council in England, as he was then entitled to do, and his conviction was quashed. The Law Lords ruled that he and a party colleague had suffered a grievous injustice. They have been fined, imprisoned and publicly disgraced for offences of which they are not guilty.
10 News
EXCLUSIVE
Meiktilas Thirimingalar ward, which was badly damaged in March riots, shows few signs of rebuilding. Photo: Staff
bubbly and outgoing, U Win Myint said, but now rarely talks and hides behind his mother when spoken to. My children are still terrified. People are really traumatised but
deputy director U Sa William French said the government plans to provide permanent housing for the displaced people. In April he told The Myanmar Times the project was scheduled for completion within two or three
clashes were the first priority, he said. Roads have been widened to prevent people being trapped in the event of future fires, and drains have been laid along the newly widened roads.
there have been no counselling services that Ive seen or been able to take my children to. Relief and Resettlement Department
months but he now says the timeline is out of his hands. Efforts to clear debris and raze unsafe structures left behind by the
About half of the 8400 long-term displaced have found permanent housing themselves, though 4100 are still in temporary housing, he said.
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News 11
A charter flight from Japan arrives at Mandalay International Airport on September 18. Photo: Si Thu Lwin
THE US State Department has issued clarifications to its Responsible Investment Reporting Requirements for companies doing business in Myanmar. Companies that do not adhere to the reporting requirements will be subject to civil and criminal penalties for violation of the US International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the State Department said on September 23. Myanmar has been subject to the IEEPA since 1997 for its large-scale repression of the democratic opposition, according to the US Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control. The penalties were included in a 20-point set of frequently asked questions designed to clarify the Responsible Investment Reporting Requirements. Introduced in May, it is the cornerstone of the Obama administrations policy for transparent economic re-engagement with Myanmar. While the details released last week were not new, they represented
the clearest statement yet by the State Department about how the reporting requirements work. As The Myanmar Times reported last week, the system has been criticised by rights groups for its apparent lack of strong penalties for non-compliant American companies. Lisa Misol, a senior researcher on business and human rights at Human Rights Watch, said that rights groups had lobbied for strong penalties during two public comment periods in 2012. The reporting system requires all US companies with investment over US$500,000 in Myanmar to file annual reports, along with companies that have any investments with staterun Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise. The first reports were posted on the website of the US Embassy in Yangon on July 1. The clarifications to the reporting requirements come as a joint State Department-Treasury delegation visited Myanmar from September 23-27 to assess the impact of the relaxation of US sanctions against Myanmar over the past 18 months. It also gauged the impact of those that remain in place.
An earlier version of this article appearing on The Myanmar Times website incorrectly stated that the penalties announced were new. We regret the error.
12 News
MORE than 300 households forced to relocate for a hydropower project on the Chindwin River that has since been cancelled are lobbying for permission to return to their former homes. Residents from Laywayyan and Ta Zone villages in Homalin township were forcibly moved in 2007, three years after the military government signed an agreement with India to build the 1200 megawatt Tamanthi hydropower project in Sagaing Region. However, progress on the project proceeded slowly and in
June the Indian and Myanmar governments pulled out of the project. Those affected are also seeking compensation for the 1400 acres of farmland that they say was confiscated from them and destroyed for the project. The land was used to grow tea, djenkol bean, bananas and seasonal fruits. The villagers were ordered to move to new places about 40 miles [65 kilometres] away from their old villages. The authorities destroyed their farms with bulldozers. Most of the villagers were given just K5000 as compensation for their farms and houses, said Daw Bawi Nu of the Kuki Womens Human Rights Organisation. The villagers are mostly Chin and Shan and struggled to communicate with the Myanmar-speaking authorities when they were evicted.
When the authorities came to our village and told us to move, we asked what we would do and where we would stay instead, said U Aung Htain Lin from Laywayyan village. The authorities told us not to worry and just move. They said building houses would be easy and they would take care of it. But when we
moved out, no one built any houses for us. He said the area where the villages have been relocated lacks fertile land. Whenever we planted crops they always died because the soil is mixed with rocks ... We had to give up farming there, he said. Without our farms we had no income so the women had to do work in the houses of rich people and men had to do timber work, he said. Daw Bawi Nu said that her organisation will demand compensation and permission for the villagers to relocate back to their original homes from the Ministry of Electric Power and Indian government. The lives of the villagers were destroyed by this project. Even if government gives reasonable compensation to them, it will take a long
time for them to get back to normal, she said. Minister for Electric Power U Khin Maung Soe confirmed that both governments agreed to stop the project after a feasibility study had revealed that it would flood a large area and require many people to be resettled. He declined to comment on the governments future plans for Laywayyan and Ta Zone villages, however. We will stop the projects immediately if there are too many downsides for the environment and the people, he said on September 23. However, Indian newspaper Mint reported in June that the Myanmar government had initiated the cancellation of the Tamanthi project, along with another 880MW hydropower project backed by India, because of concerns over its social impact.
week has been prompted by a low pressure system in the Bay of Bengal and remnants of a storm in the South China Sea. While no rain records were set last week, Chaungzon in Mon State received more than 11 inches (28 centimetres) in one 24-hour period. Yangons heaviest falls came on September 23, when more than 3 inches (7.6cm) was recorded. A Department of Meteorology and Hydrology official said the strong monsoon conditions meant that the receding of the monsoon could be delayed from its original forecast. The monsoon withdrawal [from central areas] could be delayed to early October, deputy director U Kyaw Lwin Oo said, adding that the monsoon withdrew from northern Myanmar in late September. While the rain is likely to abate in central and upper Myanmar from October 2, meteorologists have forecast more heavy rain and potential flooding for southern parts of the country in the first 10 days of the month. There is likely to be above-average rain in central, delta and southern areas of the country from September 25 to October 8. These areas should prepare for floods, U Tun Lwin, a former director general of the department, posted on his Facebook page on September 25.
Displaced by flooding
Source: Relief and Resettlement Department, September 24 KACHIN 478 | 7 SAGAING 5613 | 19 SHAN 123 | O* MANDALAY 6648 | 24 BAGO 1947 | 6 KAYIN 5319 | 14
200
In 2011 my paddy field was destroyed because the water did not go down, she said. About 140 affected villagers were transported to Yanaungmyin Pagoda compound in Lewe township by the Myanmar Red Cross Society (MRCS) with the help of about 50 local
members, 60 soldiers, firemen and locals, and provided with food and water, officials said. We have to help by using loudspeakers to evacuate some elderly people because they couldnt hear us, said a Red Cross official. An army captain from Lewe township said the military is responding to the emergency. If people need food and water, we will help them, he said. The flood victims received drinking water from the MRCS, about 300 packets of steamed rice from Magyeegone village and 500 packets of steamed rice and 1500 bottles of drinking water from the Pyinmana branch of the National League for Democracy. The Department of Health plans to disinfect water and conduct an education campaign on the need to boil water for drinking to avoid diarrhoea, an official said. Translated by Thiri Min Htun
MAGWE 1219 | O*
AYEYARWADDY 856 | 5
TOTAL:
22212 |
75
14 News
FEATURE
As beautiful as Inle Lake one of the countrys most popular tourist destinations appears to the thousands who visit each year, re
Experts say commercial floating farms, which grow vegetables on the so-called floating islands of Inle Lake, are the main culprits due to their excessive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides. Small-scale farmers also play a role in polluting, though experts caution it is best not to condemn their work but rather to try to persuade them of the need to look after the environment through more careful cultivation. And locals point out that tourism, however many jobs it brings to their area, damages the lake as well. Whoever is responsible, the science bears out Ko Win Zaw Oos worries. Pesticides from agriculture, chemical dyes from textile processing, excess siltation from watershed erosion, the dumping of garbage and waste any of these can pose a threat to an ecosystem. In combination, as at Inle, they wreak havoc. One measurement of the health of a body of water is its pH value. Living things flourish in waters measuring around 7, but will struggle or die in water which is more acidic (below 7), or more alkaline or caustic (above 7). The more the needle sways, in other words, the worse the news for biodiversity. A report released by the Department of Fisheries in February 2012 shows less-than-picture-postcard results: pH values of 9.6 in the central lake; 8.4 in Kaela to the west; 9.1 in Maing Thoak to the northeast; 8.9 in Nang Pan and 9.3 in Inn Paw Khon to the south; 9.0 by the Paung Daw Oo Pagoda. U Mg Mg Pyone, secretary of the Biodiversity and Nature Conservation Association (BANCA), said levels like this mean the water is not safe for consumption. What we proved by monitoring pH levels from 15 different sites is that in some places the water is not drinkable because of too much chemical use nearby, he said. Fish and vegetables especially the areas staple crop, tomatoes showed traces of the same poisonous chemicals found in the water, U Mg Mg Pyone said. And some of these toxins are working their way even further up the food chain, with blood samples from residents showing traces as well. There are two emergent threats to the rich verdant ecology and vibrant biodiversity around the Inle Lake area. One is deterioration of water quality as shown in the high pH levels. The other is depletion of water area. The lake as residents know it seems to be disappearing before their eyes. Water levels during the peak of the hot season, in March and April, were significantly down this year, with just 30 centimetres (1 foot) at the jetty at Phaung Daw Oo Pagoda. Transportation was disrupted and some villages were cut off entirely. While a similar drop in water levels occurred in 2010, when much of Myanmar was affected by drought, residents say the weather is not the only factor. They also blame the expansion of rice cultivation beside the lake and the continuous building of hotels to cater to the tourist boom. In an attempt to control what happens on the lake, BANCA instituted a project called the Integrated Multistakeholder Ecosystem Approach at Inle Lake Based on Zoning Principles and Integration of Eco-restoration and Agro-farming Practices in August 2011. Co-initiated with the Thailand Environment Institute (TEI), and supported by the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) through the Asia-Pacific Forum for Environment and Development (APFED) program, the project took a multipronged approach to the increasingly obvious environmental problems
An Intha fisherman balances on a longtail boat at Inle Lake. Photo: Boothee
IN January, at an event bringing together about 50 youth from Inle and Yangon, some Yangon youth carried a poster showing a typical Inle scene: a fisherman standing on his long wooden boat, with a conical net in the water and the Shan mountains visible in the background. The picture wasnt so different from many other images of Inle. Located in southern Shan State, the lake is known for its natural beauty and, especially, for the unique relationship between those who live there and the 116-square-kilometre lake. Images like this emphasising the grace of the men and women who work and live on the water are the areas calling card, featuring in nearly every travel guide, tourism write-up and in-flight magazine article published about Myanmar. Visitors from all over the world treat Inle as a must-see Myanmar location, part of a well-travelled loop taking in Shwedagon Pagoda, Mandalays royal palace and Bagans ancient ruins. Like the birds that nest in the area, travellers flock to the area for its unspoiled environment, where ecosystem and economy are balanced as neatly as a leg-rower balances on a boat. For the local contingent, however, the image on the poster told a different story. Ko Win Zaw Oo, leader of a civil society group called Thu Mitta, was one of 50 youth gathering at the Ahtet Laeti Monastery. The natural splendour of the fisherman, the lake and the mountains did not awe him, for he has lived at Inle all his life. What he saw instead were the areas in the background of the picture where oncegreen mountains had been laid bare, the once-dense forest cut and carted away for firewood.
The pH value of water at the centre of Inle Lake; living things flourish in waters measuring around 7.0
9.6
I feel sad about the poster youre carrying, he said, pointing to the sign. For him, the lack of trees on the mountains was a sign of environmental degradation, and the picture for some idyllic of the fisherman emphasised how Inle Lakes traditional custodians the Intha still live in poverty. And how could we solve this? he asked. Are we happy as fishermen? Why have we remained constantly in a state of poverty? This is not a good sign. It shows an alarming situation for the livelihood of the Intha. Ko Win Zaw Oo was expressing a sentiment common among those in the area. For all Inle Lake has been thrust into the tourism spotlight, the attention does not seem to have done much good for either of its main draws. However scenic their lives may appear, the Intha are still dependent on ancient practices to scrape out a meager living. Meanwhile, the oncepristine environment, now damaged by visitors and local mismanagement alike, has become a polluted, shrinking pool, posing a threat to both people and wildlife.
posing a threat to the lake area. Inle Lake was divided into zones, each to be managed by a Village-level Lake Restoration Team (VLRTs). The teams carried out a number of projects, from conducting bird surveys to ensuring legal restrictions on development were properly enforced. They also carried out environmental education programs and demonstrated organic farming practices to farmers to encourage healthier eating and a more inviting atmosphere for tourism. It is estimated that 85 percent of tomato farmers at Inle Lake had used pesticides and chemical fertilisers over the past two decades. Interest in and uptake of organic farming techniques is growing thanks to the efforts of both international and communitybased organisations. One small NGO started by Daw
recovery movement is critical, said U Tun Aung, a Shan State Hluttaw representative from Nyaungshwe, the main urban gateway to Inle Lake. He said the Intha have a responsibility to conserve their native land, and should understand what roles they can play in the process. Some locals, however, say change will not be as simple as it seems. Ko Kyaw Than Htay, a floatinggarden worker from Yay Thar village, earns K1500 a day during farming season. Without chemical fertilisers, he said, the yields are not enough to make cultivation economically viable. U Tin Soe, who works at Shwe Nga Main, a tomato sales broker center, said large-scale farmers would need at least a month to prepare the soil before planting, and using organic compost creates logistical problems in
Hnin Hnin Ohn was set up to share worm composting practices with other villagers on the lake to produce organic fertiliser. The weather at Inle Lake is similar to that of Chiang Mai, where people have had good success with worm farming, said Daw Hnin Hnin Ohn. The project has now spread to 20 villages. Such local involvement in the
terms of transportation. Still, the push is on to reform the way local people farm and do business on the lake. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) agreed to fund eight ethnic community-based organisations and local NGOs from July this year to support conservation of the lake. Last year, 12 organisations received similar grants. In all, about 50 community-based organisations
are thought to be actively working to conserve Inle Lakes natural resources. Local reaction to the organisations has been mixed. U Thein Tun, of 42 Min Chaung village tract, said some residents are appreciative of the groups intentions but others believe those from outside dont always understand the local way of life. Some NGOs have made good efforts for us, but some have not. Some NGOs dont understand the Inthas needs, livelihoods and difficulties, he said. One well-intentioned but incomplete development, he said, turned out to be something of a white elephant for villagers. One NGO donated a water tank to the village, but they didnt donate a platform. A villager built it and it cost about 2.5 lakh [K250,000]. This was bad luck for him. Ko Yay Aye, chairman of the ISDA, agreed that NGOs have not involved residents as much as they should. When NGOs took a survey of the lake, they used two locals and eight staff from other places. Thats not the right ratio. Other residents said that calls for the Intha to take responsibility for both the damage to and rehabilitation of the lake are unfair. They point out that the Pa-O, another ethnic minority group, live in the surrounding hills and are also responsible for some of the impact. They also blame hotels and the wider tourism industry for some of the damage. The impact of the growing tourism industry was one focus of a 118-page report Inlay Lake Conservation Project: A Plan for the Future that was
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News 15
h the surface
Activists carry a heavily pregnant woman who was rescued on September 22. Photo: Supplied/Ko Maung Maung Oo
ing ropes and a hoe because there was a tree-planting activity, said Ko Maung
released in November 2012 and developed with funding from the Norwegian government. While the increase in tourism would generate new income in the area, the report said, there was also a serious threat that the net benefits to the regional communities may be offset by environmental costs to the already-stressed lake. Part of the changes may also relate to the increasing number of people living on the lake, a figure now pegged at around 200,000, according to the latest government data. Vice president of Forest Resource Environment Development and Conservation Association U Ohn said the area needs stronger support from government partners, such as the departments of forestry,
fisheries and irrigation. The damage has so far done little to deter tourists. Arrivals through the Yangon gateway the main source of visitors to Inle grew more than 50pc in 2012 and are expected to grow at least 30pc this year. But shrinking surface area, declining numbers of native water plants, deteriorating water quality due to poor sanitation, eroding soil in the hillside and delta areas, declining production in floating gardens and health threats to the local population caused by unsafe water are all problems that remain unsolved. And if they arent, it wont only be sharp-eyed residents like Ko Win Zaw Oo who are left wondering whats wrong with the Inle Lake picture.
DAWEI residents are demanding a suspension of work at the huge deep-sea port project, claiming promised compensation has not been paid and work conducted so far has damaged agricultural land. The Dawei-based Tavoyan Womens Union (TWU) distributed a documentary video on September 26 recording the difficulties of the residents. Residents dissatisfaction is growing as their farms and gardens are being destroyed without their knowledge, said U Ye Linn Myint of the Dawei Development Association (DDA). This is why we are asking for the project to be suspended. We want the government to solve the problems first. The more the project grows, the more the residents are unhappy, said Daw Su Su Swe of TWU. Myanmar and Thailand signed an agreement to develop a deep sea port and special economic zone at Dawei in 2010. The original developer, ItalianThai Development, stepped back from the project after struggling to obtain financial backing. The Myanmar and Thai governments have since taken over and are attempting to bring Japan into the project, the first phase
of which is expected to cost around US$10 billion. This first phase will see 12,000 people from six villages forced to move at the end of this years monsoon season, according to TWU. Future development phases will require another 18,000 residents from 13 villages to relocate, the group says.
The new roads theyve built block the waterways for the paddy fields. Now our fields are flooded.
U Aung Myint Resident, Mudoo village
Though the project implementation committee has promised reasonable compensation for the plantations, gardens and farms that will be taken over, residents say so far they have received nothing. The new roads theyve built block the waterways for the paddy fields. Now our fields are flooded after the heavy rain, said U Aung Myint, from Mudoo village. Myel Gyi and Nayin Kyaw villages
face the same problem. Paddy fields in Myel Gyi were flooded and many acres of fields at Nayin Kyaw were covered with stones where the earth was broken for the road-building, he added. Another villager, U Maung Than, said residents are watching their fields day and night to make sure they are not destroyed by the developer. We refused to move from our lands when the authorities asked us. There is evidence that the authorities destroyed the crops of farmers who refused to move, said U Maung Than. The villagers also say local roads were ruined by the passage of heavy plant machinery. When we went to Ital-Thai to ask them to repair the roads they ignored us. Students who have to attend school in other villages cannot go because the roads are ruined. In the end, the villagers had to repair the roads themselves, said U Maung Than. U Ye Linn Myint said the government also needs to be more transparent about the projects status and its major investors. Though Ital-Thai say they have withdrawn from the project, they are still there. And now Japan is reportedly interested. DDA wants the government to solve these problems before the developer changes so that the situation doesnt become even more complicated. Neither the government nor ItalThai could be contacted for comment last week.
16 News
Ko Win Zaw Oo holds a bouquet of flowers given to him after his arrival at Yangon International Airport on September 26. Photo: Zarni Phyo
AN obstetrician and gynaecologist will appeal to the Myanmar Medical Council to regain her medical licence, which was suspended for five years in June 2012. The appeal follows the decision of Yangons Eastern District Court to dismiss a charge against her for medical error, Dr Mie Mie Thein told a press conference on September 26. Now its time to regain my licence after the court threw out the false accusation, she said. A couple whose child died at a private hospital in North Okkalapa township initiated legal action against her for causing death by
negligence in August 2010. They alleged that Dr Mie Mie Thein was negligent when she delivered the child at 30 weeks by caesarean section as she had miscalculated the due date. The week-old child died on July 8 after being transferred to the childrens ward at North Okkalapa General Hospital. Three years after the incident, the North Okkalapa township court charged Dr Mie Mie Thein with causing death by negligence under section 304(a) of the Penal Code on August 7. However, the Eastern District Court dismissed the charge on September 17. The court decided that the child did not die as a result of premature birth, but because of neonatal sepsis a blood infection that occurs in infants younger than 90 days old. In June 2012, the Myanmar Medical Council (MMC) announced
Dr Mie Mie Thein speaks at a press conference in Yangon on September 26. Photo: Zarni Phyo
that it had revoked Dr Mie Mie Theins medical licence following an investigation. The announcement stated that the medical licence had been suspended because of her miscalculation of the due date, the erroneous decision to perform a caesarean operation, failure to provide proper consultation to the parents before the operation and poor communication. In an interview with The Myanmar Times on January 30, the MMC declined to comment on the case. We dont have the right to disseminate information to the public on why and how action has been taken against a doctor, said former MMC chairman Dr Myo Myint. Dr Mie Mie Thein accused the MMC of failing to conduct the investigation in a transparent manner. They phoned me to come to the office for an investigation without any prior notice. How they investigated the [claims from the family of the patient] is also unclear, she said. The MMC has said that it would consider restoring her licence in light of the courts decision. I have already appealed four times and have had no reply, Dr Mie Mie Thein said. I will apply again and again to regain my reputation. In late 2009, the MMC suspended a surgeon for five years for misdiagnosing dengue haemorrhagic fever at the Bahan-based private medical centre.
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Daw Aung San Suu Kyi speaks to the Myanmar community in Singapore on September 22. Photo: AFP
News 17
SERVICES for HIV/AIDS sufferers will be decentralised this year to reach more people across the country, a government official said. The decentralisation plan aims to provide HIV care and treatment services such as voluntary blood tests, pre- and post-test counselling and anti-retroviral therapy (ART) to people in remote areas, said Dr Myo Thant, Yangon Region officer of the National AIDS Program (NAP). The services, now available at about 55 sites in big cities, will be extended to regional towns and rural areas. We have a capacity-building program for healthcare providers at each level to expand the services, Dr Myo Thant told the 7th National PLHIV forum on September 23. About 30 new sites will be opened this year, and more than 100 more by 2015. A nationwide expansion of ART sites will get under way this year, Dr Myo Thant said. About 17 new ART sites in general hospitals and seven ART teams will be expanded from this year until 2015. Of the estimated 120,000 people living with HIV who are in need of ART, more than 50,000 people, or about 48 percent, are receiving treatment. NAP is aiming to reach more than 100,000 people, or 85pc, by 2016, to enable them to get treatment.
Some of the funding will come from the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis & Malaria, which will provide more than US$315 million for Myanmars response to HIV, tuberculosis and malaria over the next four years, of which more than half will go toward HIV. Ko Myo Thant Aung, chair of Myanmar Positive Group, said under the current, highly centralised system, patients from rural areas have to spend significant amount of money to seek treatment in urban areas.
The number of new HIV treatment sites that will open over the next two years
130
It was a waste of time, money and energy, he said. So this is a great plan for people living with HIV, but we still have to see how effective it will be. He also warned that some patients prefer to travel from their homes for treatment so they can hide the infection from other members of their community. There are some patients who dare not to reveal to others in their area that they are HIV-positive because they are scared of discrimination. They wont want to take medicine in their home region.
18 News
FEATURE
SI THU LWIN
sithulwin.mmtimes@gmail.com
A TWO-FOOT-SQUARE red signboard stands next to the entrance of the Tarmwe township compound, the words Authorised Persons Only in white letters. Beyond, people of all ages from toddlers to the elderly walk between 17 row houses, some of which are still being built. The houses 3 metres (10 feet) apart, and 4.8m (16 feet) wide are made of bamboo slats and matting and divided into 12 small rooms. Behind the small, open entrances to the rooms, anywhere from two to eight family members can be found living inside. Built to house employees of Yangon City Development Committees Department of Pollution Control and Cleaning, there are 27 similar compounds across the city. This one near a stadium behind Yuzana Plaza is home to more than 200 workers and their families, most of whom have migrated to Yangon. With few job opportunities in their hometowns and villages, they have uprooted in search of something better. Now, theyre working day or night shifts, gathering household garbage with their carts and hauling it back to dump it into a large bin near Yuzana Plaza. Some wear bright orange jackets marked cleaning, gloves or a face mask but others wear nothing to distinguish themselves. Pedestrians visibly recoil as they walk past the carts, trying not to breath in the unpleasant smell. For their efforts, the workers are paid K2700 a day. But many say the promise of accommodation in Yangon is what encouraged them to take up this work, regardless of the health risks that come with handling trash. I dont want to consider my health - wed face a difficult living otherwise, said Daw Thi Thi Win, 44. She moved here with her family from Mon States Paung township. When her husband developed heart and lung disease and could no longer work, she had few options and had to choose this job. She now collects rubbish on the night shift. I have two sons and they are students. The older is in eighth standard and the younger is in third standard, she said. The most important thing for us is having a place to live. The skyrocketing property prices in Yangons downtown area are well documented. Less well known, however, is
A man and a child stand next to a cart between row houses in Tarmwe township built for Yangon City Development Committee cleaners. Photo: Si Thu Lwin
that rents are rising even in workingclass neighbourhoods, where a typical bamboo house measuring 1200 square feet (20 feet by 60 feet) is at least K20,000 or K30,000 a month. The requirement that six months or one year be paid upfront prices many out of the market. By offering accommodation as
Another resident, whose husband works clearing garbage, agreed that this job was the only way for her family to get by. He chose this job out of consideration for us his family, said Daw Nilar, 59. He doesnt have any education. But by working as a cleaner he
a daily basis, said U Than Lwin Oo, head of the Department of Pollution Control and Cleaning. To house this new workforce it has built compounds in 28 townships 145 houses in all, comprising 1740 rooms with running water and electricity. It plans to upgrade the houses in future
well as employment, YCDC has offered a solution to the two major challenges that low-income households face. I had to choose this job because I had no place to live and I cant afford to rent a house, said Daw Kyi Kyi Khine, 37, from Bago Regions Kawa township.
doesnt need to worry about finding a place for us to live. The arrangement benefits YCDC as well: The city requires more than 2600 staff to handle garbage, but to date has only 900 permanent staff. To fill the rest of the positions, it hires more than 3000 workers on
by adding concrete foundations and replacing the thatch roofs with sheets of corrugated iron. Once or twice a month, authorities from the health department provide medical checkups for workers, and NGOs spray the area against mosquitoes and provide free health education regularly.
The arrangement, however, is not without its difficulties. For a place built to house garbage collectors, the residents of the Tarmwe compound have been having trouble getting their own garbage picked up on time. While the warden of the compound said a truck comes once every three days to clear away the overflowing rubbish bin, residents said it comes only every week or two, or sometimes once a month. Residents have to observe 12 regulations while living there. But these rules, like the collection schedule, seem rather elastic. One rule, for example, forbids smoking inside the homes, something the warden signalled he did not wish to discuss by blowing out a stream of smoke in his office. Still, the collection of workers has turned into a community. When The Myanmar Times visited recently, a group of people were playing with a carom board next to the shared toilet and water tank. Others played a game that involves throwing a marble toward rolled notes placed in a small circle on the ground. While stoves are provided, residents said payday every five days is the only time the smell of cooking competes against the smells of the workday. We cook in the kitchen on the days we draw our wages, said Daw Wa Toke, as she collected rubbish on Bogyoke Aung San Road on a recent monsoon night. Mostly we rely on roadside food. Another resident, Ko Kin, is a new father. As he unloaded rubbish from his cart into the tank, he reflected on the difficult balance he and other workers have struck between shortterm gain and long-term pain. Collecting household rubbish is a kind of public service. I earn income from this job and I dont need to worry about myself and my family. But, he added, as he got ready to head out for one trip, I dont want to have to do this job my whole life. Translated by Thiri Min Htun
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News 19
BRIEFS
KIO, govt to meet in early October
The next round of talks with the Kachin Independence Organisation will be held in Myitkyina at the beginning of October, chief government peace negotiator U Aung Min said last week. He made the comments on September 21, the first day of a three-day meeting in the Shan State capital Taunggyi with armed ethnic groups. Peace facilitator U San Aung said the government is likely to focus discussions on the formation of a joint team to monitor front-line troops, support for people displaced by the conflict and a nationwide ceasefire agreement that the government has proposed be signed at the end of October. While the dates are not yet confirmed, media reports suggested that the talks would likely begin on October 7 or 8. The government and KIO signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994 following decades of conflict but fighting resumed in June 2011, less than three months after President U Thein Sein took power. The conflict has so far displaced almost 100,000 people, of which about 70,000 are in KIO-controlled areas, U San Aung said. Win Ko Ko Latt
Myanmar migrant workers rest in their cabin aboard a trawler at a port in Pattani, southern Thailand, on September 20. Photo: AFP
A committee set up to raise funds for the holding of the Southeast Asian Games from corporate partners has already exceeded its US$2 million target, a government official says. Deputy Minister for Finance U Maung Maung Thein, who is chairman of the governments SEA Games fundraising committee, said almost $3 million has been raised and more is expected to flow in before the games begin on December 11. Currently, we have received $2.69 million for the SEA Games. We are likely to get more contributions from some other companies, said U Maung Maung Thein. The Kanbawza Group of Companies has been the largest donor to date, giving $1 million. Myanmar Brewery, Loi Hein, Panasonic, Samsung and Daw Win Garment Industry have each donated $300,000, while a number of other donors have given $100,000 or less. Along with identifying sponsors and donors, the Fundraising and Awards Committee is also responsible for purchasing vehicles to transport athletes and officials and commissioning a firm to produce the medals for athletes. U Maung Maung Thein said about $1.4 million of the money raised had been used to buy 120 of the 200 buses and cars needed for the games. The committee has also chosen Warzi Printing to produce the gold, silver and bronze medals that will be awarded to athletes. The company was selected through a tender. Shwegu Thitsar, translated by Zar Zar Soe
DESPITE several weeks of talks, Myanmar and Thailand are yet to agree on a new policy that would allow migrant workers to apply for and renew visas to work in Thailand. Human rights activists say the failure to put in place a new system has left migrants uncertain and vulnerable to further exploitation. The major problem is the policy is not clear here in Bangkok, much less on the border, said Phil Robertson, Asia director at Human Rights Watch and the author of several reports on migrants in Thailand. Under a memorandum of understanding implemented in 2009, migrant workers could stay for a maximum of four years before having to return to Myanmar. When the first round of visas began to expire earlier this year, both migrant groups and employers called for a change to the program so that visas could be extended further. After initially rejecting calls for a new policy, Thailand agreed to bilateral talks with Myanmar on the issue. The two sides signed a new memorandum of understanding in
Bangkok on September 5 under which they agreed to review certain parts of the existing policy with an eye toward suggesting changes at the next meeting. So far no second meeting has been scheduled. Representatives from Myanmars Ministry of Labour could not be reached for comment but Peing Pahp, an alien workers expert at the Thai ministry, said any new labour policy would have to be cleared by Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatras cabinet and this is likely to take some time.
I expect the [legal] migration avenues will take a big hit as a result of these problems.
Phil Robertson Human Rights Watch
Sai Kawng, who conducts education and outreach activities in migrant communities in the Chiang Mai area, said he and his activist colleagues are the only ones sharing information with workers, who come mostly from Shan State. The [Thai] government does not go to migrant workers areas and talk about [the new policy], he said. In the absence of solid news on the Thai governments plans for migrant workers, rumours are spreading through communities. In Chiang Mai, Sai Kawng said, migrants are hearing that they will only be allowed to extend their visa for one year, and they will not be allowed to quit their job during that time. He said this means migrants are already growing suspicious of the new system and more likely to choose to stay in the country illegally, even though this leaves them at greater risk of exploitation from criminals and local police. Mr Robertson agreed that poor information dissemination in migrant communities would likely hamper the new system. Rumours abound, facts and clear procedures are hard to find
The fact that this is being handled in such an ad hoc way certainly does not give confidence to migrant workers, he said. I expect the [legal] migration avenues will take a big hit as a result of all these problems, encouraging more people to enter Thailand without documents which is precisely what the Thai government says they didnt want. A source close to the Myanmar government, who asked not to named, said that corrupt officials try to keep migrants ignorant of changes to the law so that they can inflate fees. Another source said he thought the new system, when it arrives, will only be a new vehicle for the endemic corruption that plagued the old system. Sai Kawng said that even while the law is in flux he is still meeting newly arrived migrants who are being sold passports that could soon be invalid when the new system is rolled out. Key agencies the police and employers win when the policy is unsettled and workers are bereft of rights, Mr Robertson said.
20 News
WORKERS who walked out when their factorys closure left them without pay have called off their strike after intervention by the regional labour ministry. Negotiations involving the workers, management and ministry staff resulted in the signing of a five-point agreement on September 23. The Yangon Region Ministry of Labour has promised to help the workers find new jobs, said labour minister U Soe Min. Hluttaw representatives Daw Sandar Min and Ko Kyaw Kyaw joined strike leaders in publicising the agreement among the workers at the troubled Hone Shin cold storage factory in Yangons Dagon Seikkan township industrial zone. Under the agreement, which resulted from several hours of talks, Hone Shin, which opened 12 years ago, will shut down permanently. Management has agreed to pay all compensation and outstanding wages; to intercede in favour of arrested strike leaders U Min Min and U Thiha; and to allow workers living in factory accommodation to remain until 6pm on September 26. The workers guarantee not to remove or destroy factory property and to renounce any additional compensation claims. Some members of the 200-strong workforce have been with the factory for 11 years. Workers with service of three years or more will receive five months wages, and those with less than three years service will receive three months wages. The Ministry of Labour will seek new jobs for the workers, said minister U Soe Min. If we hear of any factory in Dagon Seikkan township requiring more
Workers from the Hone Shin factory strike near Yangons Sule Pagoda on September 23. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing
workers, our department will inform them, said U Soe Min. Some workers accused the management of planning to reopen the factory under another name but U Soe Min said this was not the case. The factory shut down because of low productivity. We will take action if it reopens in violation of the agreement, he said. The companys management said it had asked the police during the strike not to take action against the workers. The strikers were there without permission, but I negotiated with the head of the industrial zone and the police not to crack down
on them brutally. I also negotiated with the workers the whole night of September 22, said U Thein Hlaing Tun, who did, however, press charges against two of the strike leaders. The agreement ends a series of industrial disputes at the factory, located at the corner of U Chain and U Mya streets in Dagon Seikkan township, that date back to 2011 and focused mostly on workers low pay. Workers at Hone Shin cold storage factory earned a basic wage of K15,000 a month, rising to K20,000 after several years of service. Pay rose to K25,000 after the first strike, and some workers took home as much
as K80,000 including bonuses. But workers say they were docked K5000 for missing one day, and K10,000 for missing three days. The second strike, launched in August, ended on September 4 when the employer accepted the ruling of an arbitration body. But on September 12, the employer backed out of the agreement, saying he would close the factory for three months. This sparked the third strike, when workers demonstrated in front of City Hall. Their demands included paid leave, casual leave and medical leave, and recognition of their labour representatives. Translated By Thiri Min Htun
VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. Working with private enterprises in more than 100 countries, we use our capital, expertise, and influence to help eliminate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. In FY13, our investments climbed to an all-time high of nearly $25 billion, leveraging the power of the private sector to create jobs and tackle the worlds most pressing development challenges. For more information, visit www.ifc.org. IFCs strategy in Myanmar focuses on: (i) strengthening the role of the private sector and in particular MSMEs in creating economic opportunity; (ii) promoting inclusive growth; (iii) supporting the countrys economic reform process; and (iv) addressing Myanmars infrastructure needs. Global Financial Markets is IFCs largest investment group, which is responsible for sourcing executing and supporting investment transactions in projects in the financial sector globally. We are one of the largest investors in the financial sector in emerging markets and are unique for our global perspective, development goals, long-term approach to investments, ability to leverage the resources of the entire World Bank Group, and our commitment to maximizing the value of our portfolio companies through sustained assistance. To strengthen our financial sector investment team in Myanmar, we are seeking an experienced local Associate Investment Officer/ Investment Officer to be based in our Yangon Office. As part of the Myanmar and Mekong team as well as the regional Financial Markets team, the Associate Investment Officer / Investment Officer will lead business development, execute transactions, and actively manage portfolio projects in the financial sector. He/she will establish and maintain strong relationships, at the highest levels, with banks and non-bank financial institutions, investors as well as with governmental and non-governmental organizations. Interested candidates should review the complete job description and selection criteria and apply on-line at http://www.ifc.org/careers and choose vacancy number 132109. Please note that you need to register before submitting your application. The closing date is 16th October 2013. Only applicants selected for interview will be contacted.
A former resident of Mee Gyaung Kan ward protests on September 23. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing
But the authorities have ignored us. Only the rule of law committee sent us a reply acknowledging they had received our letter, U Sein Than said. In 1990-91, No 22 Light Infantry Division confiscated more than 100 acres from thousands of households, who were forcibly relocated to the outskirts of Yangon and Bago. At first we got an eviction notice that we were living on Ministry of Railways land. But most of the families lived on their ancestors land and we had never heard it was owned
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News 21
We have to live in the forest because we dare not live in our house.
Daw Khin San Yi Thabeikkyin resident
Sayadaw Seintita of Aung Myin Thar monastery in Thabeikkyin holds a Buddha image damaged in the tremor. Photo: Si Thu Lwin
The quakes hit as workers were repairing the damage caused by a bigger earthquake last November that killed at least 26 people and left hundreds injured. The 6.8 magnitude
reported the damage to the township administration office. The latest tremors will delay reconstruction of the damage caused last November. The schools old building was destroyed in 2012. We started to rebuild it, but the new earthquake
has made a 70-foot-long crack in the foundations. We have to await instructions from our superior before going ahead, said an engineer working on the site. Locals are concerned for their safety. Reconstruction of the monastery was recently completed, but
now cracks have appeared. The recent earthquake also destroyed the arms and chest of the Buddha images which had been repaired only recently. We need donors to fund the repairs. Its a very anxious time, said Sayadaw Seintita of Aung Myin Thar monastery. Translated by Thiri Min Htun
CORRIGENDUM
In the Cautionary Notice appearing in this paper of 11th February, 2013, Page-36, the correct name and address of the ownership of Trademarks is as follows:Ipsen Pharma S.A.S. 65 Quai Georges Gorse, Boulogne-Billancourt 92100 France
and
Business
World Bank powers up Mon State with first loan in decades
AUNG SHIN
koshumgtha@gmail.com Fishermen near Myanmars coast land a catch in this file picture. Photo: AFP
THE World Bank announced a US$140 million low-interest loan to fund a power plant in Mon State, the first domestic investment from the institution since a January deal allowing cleared arrears stemming from 1989.
Its the first international investment since the World Banks re-engagement in Myanmar.
Kanthan Shakar World Bank country manager
The 106 megawatt gas turbine power plant will replace an existing generating facility, producing 2.5 times the electricity with the same amount of fuel, it said. Its the first international investment since the World Banks reengagement in Myanmar and a critical declaration of the World Banks commitment to support the development of Myanmar, said World Bank Myanmar country manager Kanthan Shankar on September 25. The World Bank said the project will meet 5 percent of Myanmars
peak demand and 50pc of the states demand. The 106MW facility will replace existing turbines able to generate 40MW. Myanmar will pay a 0.75pc service charge over the 40-year term of the otherwise interest-free loan. Myanmar had stopped making payments on its debt to the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) in 1989, resulting in a suspension of lending to the country. However, a deal struck in January 2013 with the Japan Bank for International Cooperation allowed for a bridge loan to repay arrears and allow lending from the World Bank and ADB to begin again to the country. World Bank East Asia Pacific vice president Axel van Trotsenburg said in a release the bank could provide financing, analysis and advice to Myanmars energy sector. We are also working to leverage private sector investment in power generation and distribution, he said. Myanmars transition has tremendous potential to reduce poverty. A more reliable electricity supply will create jobs and improve lives, said Mr Shankar. Meanwhile, the ADB announced a $2.85 million grant to assist Myanmar with developing a long-term energy plan and improving its power grid in a release on September 26. Jong-Inn Kim, lead energy specialist at ADBs Southeast Asia Department, said a master plan will help the country assess its energy needs and provide a roadmap to meet them. The grant funding comes from the Japan Fund for Poverty Relief, the release said. The ADB had similarly halted lending to Myanmar following the countrys 1989 decision to halt loan repayments.
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Microfinance movement
BUSINESS 24
Buying
K1300 K297 K770 K31 K970
Selling
K1310 K300 K775 K31.50 K972
IN PICTURES
An elephant pulls a log in the forests of Bago Region. Forest Products Joint Venture Corporation (FPJVC) which makes use of elephants in its operations received a strong buy rating due to its cash reserves and strong industry relationships, though a planned ban on export of teak logs will test its adaptability, a report from consultancy firm Thura Swiss said. Photo: Douglas Long
If the government wants to subsidise prices thats fine, but the market price should be 12 cents.
U Zeya Thura Mon Myanmar Central Power Company
We brought in [foreign investors], built the project, and we are ready. Everybody agreed on a deal, he said. Then it came time to sign the deal, and nobody signed. He added it is a similar situation for three other plants spearheaded by investors from Japan, Malaysia and Indonesia, who all responded in 2011 to an easing of rules governing foreign investment in the sector as a means to supply much-needed electricity to Myanmar. U Khin Maung Win, MOEP deputy director general, said the delay in producing a PPA for the four plants came as the government attempts to produce a standardised agreement
JAPAN aims to make a decision on the level of its involvement in the Dawei Special Economic Zone project by November, Myanmar officials said. The worlds third-largest economy is mulling possible technical assistance or Official Development Assistance (ODA) support to the SEZ, said U Set Aung, deputy minister for National Planning and Economic Development at the beginning of a September 27 trilateral meeting in Yangon. Japan will declare its role in Dawei at the November meeting of the Joint Coordinating Committee in Nay Pyi Daw, he added. Union Minister U Aye Myint said that Myanmar is looking for reliable partners with technological expertise in order to speed up work on the SEZ. The troubled Tanintharyi Region project was initially spearheaded by Italian-Thai Development Company, but government officials said in August it stepped aside as it ran into funding difficulties, though still operates as a contractor. Dawei has been the result of highlevel negotiations between Myanmar and Thai officials, who have requested Japanese assistance in the SEZ. Dawei would be linked to Bangkok some 350 kilometres (220 miles) away by road, providing the Thai capital with an outlet to the Andaman Sea. The ambitious project is to cover
250 square kilometres, with the first phase projected to cost nearly US$9 billion including a deep-sea port and large industrial estate. U Aye Myint said the SEZ could greatly benefit from Japans participation. Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs deputy director general Hidenao Yanagi said the September 27 meeting was an effort for Japanese players to gain information about the project. We have some expertise we can share, as Japan has been involved in similar projects, he said. He pointed to the Map Ta Phut industrial estate on Thailands eastern seaboard as a successful project begun 20 years ago. Map Ta Phut had gone through growing pains as well, but ended up successful, he said.
We have some expertise we can share, as Japan has been involved in similar projects.
Hidenao Yanagi Japanese official
Thai deputy prime minister Niwattumrong Boosongpaisan said Dawei has so far seen strong cooperation between Myanmar and Thailand, though he said he would like to see Japanese cooperation as well.
24 Business
Historically ... dramatic expansions of microfinance have fueled boom or bust episodes.
Sean Turnell Economics professor
World Vision, Proximity Design, Save the Children and French NGO Gret. One official at an NGO MFI who declined to be named said World Visions move is being closely followed by the others, who are keen to take part in the advantages the commercial licence brings but do not yet know how the process will unfold. Although transition to a commercial licence has not yet been undertaken by a Myanmar NGO, Mr Youngquist said it has been a common process in much of the world since the 1990s.
Reg. No. 5300/2013 in respect of Intl Class 5: dietetic foods adapted for medical purpose; dietetic drinks adapted for medical purpose; supplements. Intl Class 30: tea; coffee and cocoa; ice; confectionery, bread and buns; ice cream mixes; sherbet mixes; cereal preparations; almond paste; instant confectionery mixes; flour for food; gluten for foods. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
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Business 25
BRIEFS
Supply management conference changes dates
The Myanmar Supply Chain Management Conference is slated to take place November 4 to 6 in Myanmar, pushed back from its original September 16 to 18 dates. As the only supply chain management conference focused on the country, it works in conjunction with the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Tourism, its organisers Sphere Conferences said in a press release. It aims to provide a platform for senior executives from manufacturing, logistics and supply chain functions to work to expand their networks and establish businesses. Staff Writers
A security guard stands in front of a painting ahead of Christies first mainland China auction Photo: AFP
Christies to China
CHRISTIES held its first independent auction in mainland China with artworks including Picasso and Andy Warhol, marking its full-fledged entry into a market considered a key growth engine for global art sales. Hundreds of people attended the auction on September 26 as more than 40 items from Western masterworks and Asian contemporary art to jewellery, watches and wine went under the hammer to fetch 153 million yuan (US$25 million). Among the highlights, a Picasso painting titled Homme assis and produced in 1969, one of the legendary artists most productive years fetched 9.6 million yuan. Im very happy with the results, with the right place, with the right people, with the right moment, said chief executive Steven Murphy. Christies, which has long operated in Hong Kong, had been organising sales in China since 2005 by authorising a Chinese auction firm to use its international trademark, due to strict regulations on setting up a solely foreign invested auction house. But the firm said in April it had become the first international auction house authorised to operate in mainland China without a local partner. The house now expects to connect Shanghai and therefore mainland China into Christies network which includes New York, London, Paris and Milan, Mr Murphy said,as it unveiled a three-day exhibition of the auction items ahead of the sale. - AFP
the playing field between firms and ensure stable prices and qualities for products. Intellectual Property Consultant U Thein Aung said the implementation of the trade area also carries requirements to follow intellectual property rights rules which Myanmar currently does not enforce at a sufficient level.
26 Business
ANALYSIS
FOR the nearly four years I had served as US Ambassador to and board member of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Myanmar was a bit of a black hole.Little information emerged from the country and what economic data that came out was suspect at best.The road to socialism seemed a road to ruin when it came to economic growth figures. During my time in the post, there would be no new ADB or World Bank lending to Myanmar given its more than a billion dollars of past loans in arrears. US and European sanctions also meant that even small amounts of technical assistance would be opposed by me and representatives of several other Western countries on the ADB board. With the recent lifting or suspension of sanctions and Japans writingoff or providing bridge loans to cover hundreds of millions of dollars of Myanmars debt, the development bankers and aid agencies are back with a vengeance.US President Barack Obama included Myanmar on his first overseas visit since winning re-election last November. No longer restricted by US policy, I too have now travelled throughout the country,focusing first on visiting sites and sights once cut off to sanctions-observing western visitors, from Shwedagon Pagoda in Yangon to the traditional fishermen of Inle Lake. I also have sought to begin to build a better understanding of Myanmars most pressing challenges and to think through how the success and failures of development projects in other nations may offer lessons. This will be critical as donor nations and partners begin to map out hundredsof millions of dollars of new assistance to Myanmar a nation that in the near term may well have limited capacity to absorb such help. From hydroelectric investments advanced by Chinese stateowned enterprises to educational reform programs supported by European and Australian aid agencies, efforts to assist Myanmar will be driven by varying motives, whether humanitarian, geopolitical or commercial. They likely will also be of varying qualityand more often than not may be extremely costly to taxpayers back home.With that in mind, it is worth pausing to ask some ques-
tions and garner insight from the experiences of other nations that emerged from decades of isolation. One example is Vietnam. Having resumed operations in 1993 in Vietnam, the ADB has provided more than US$12 billion in loans and assistance for fighting poverty and building Vietnamese infrastructure, after that nation, like Myanmar today, began to reform and open.Billions more have followed.But has such assistance, whether from the ADB, the World Bank or USAID, been successful? That is a critical question to ponder as Myanmars political leaders in power and in opposition ideally come together to move the nation forward even before elections scheduled for 2015. For present and future leaders, it will be important that they too gain a better understanding of the strengths and shortcomings of development assistance, whether for agricultural, transport, energy or financial sector projects. Ultimately, it will be a strong rule of law and the private sector that will drive job creation and economic growth.
2013 ADB country fact sheet on Vietnam, only 66.7pc of projects involving water supply and municipal infrastructure and services, and 69.2pc of agricultural and natural resources projects were deemed successful.Other sectors saw much better success rates, including education and finance. Though comparing Vietnam in the 1993 and Myanmar in 2013 is a bit like comparing apples and oranges, the question remains whehter the next two decades of development for Myanmar will benefit from lessons learned from the past two decades of official development assistance to Vietnam. With elections ahead, and political and economic reforms far from locked in,it will beup to Myanmars people and the nations leaders to shape their own future. There also remain a few persistent questions that I would encourage the nations development partners, as well as Myanmars business, government and civil society leaders to take to heart, regardless of political affiliation. Is Myanmars government bureaucracy fostering or instead
It will be a strong rule of law and the private sector that will drive job creation and economic growth
During my time at the ADB, I saw firsthand how lives were improved across the region, whether by donor-assisted increased access to water and roads in Sri Lanka or through support for rural electrification efforts in Bhutan.But I also saw how ambitious projects, such as privatisation efforts and outsourcingin the power sector in Pakistan,failed in implementation. Less-than-successful projectsunderscored the need for better planning, due diligence, and continued and greater oversight at development partners and within the nations they seek to help. This will also be the case in Myanmar as development partners rush in, often with limited coordination. Indeed, over the last two decades the record of success in ADB projects, according to its own evaluations, has been mixed.In some countries, such as Pakistan, success rates have dropped significantly in a range of sectors. Take again Vietnam as an example. While 82percent of ADB projects that had been evaluated as of December 31, 2012, have been rated successful, according to the
hinderingeconomic growth? The track record of the governments performance is mixed everywhere. Whether in Bangkok or Washington, DC, a real fight against bureaucracy must be less about new organisation charts and more about assessing what works and what does not, and then getting rid of the latter. Its the service quality and not just the size of the bureaucracy that matters. Government jobs should be viewed as neither spoils for victorious parties nor a source of lifetime benefits for those who hold those positions. How are regulations impacting job creation? With large numbers of people employed, or underemployed, in agriculture and expectations growing for higher-paid jobs, this remains one of the most critical questions for countries everywhere. Some level of regulation is essential. Yet, whether in the power industry or agriulture, rules must be consistent and enforced fairly if citizens and outside investors are to have the confidence to create jobs essential for Myanmarsfuture.
When is government intervention appropriate? Governments in Asia have rightly been criticised for seeking to pick winners and losers, often distorting markets and hurting competition. Myanmars large neighbors, China and India, provide numerous examples of intervention gone awry. Too often, however, government interventions and inefficiency can go hand in hand. Policymakers need to ensure such interventions are limited and are there as a last resort. What more can be done to root out corruption? Throughout the world corruption and cronyism go hand-in-hand. The United States is not immune, ranking only 19th least corrupt on Transparency Internationals 2012 Corruption Perception Index, which looks at perceived levels of public sector corruption, with the lower the number the better the ranking. Myanmar continues to rank near the bottom out of more than 175 rated countries and territories, alongside Somalia and North Korea, though data sources are limited.China ranks 80th worst and India 94th when it comes to perceived levels of public corruption. Allegations of favouritism or leniency must be investigated, institutions strengthened and individuals held accountable if people are to have any confidence in the public sector. At the heart of these four simple questions is my view that policymakers and development partners everywhere must commit to tear down new bric walls being built of bureaucracy, regulation, interventionism and corruption. The prescription for economic growth in the worlds developed and developing nations is straightforward: improve the bureaucracy, regulate fairly, intervene rarely and stamp out corruption. Increased sectarianism too must also be addressed.Investment, capital and business confidence and growth will follow. This is also true for Myanmar. What the nation and indeed all of South and Southeast Asia, and perhaps even the United States needs now is to overcome division and discord, and to focus on innovation, infrastructure improvements and a policy environment that will foster the job growth necessary to drive the economy forward. Without question, all the people of Myanmar, regardless of ethnicity or religion,deserve no less than this.
Curtis S.Chin served as US ambassador to the Asian Development Bank from 2007 to 2010. He is managing director of advisory firm RiverPeak Group, LLC.
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Myanmar is inviting qualified candidates to apply for the following positions: Sr. Title and level Duty Station Position Deadline Yangon Yangon Yangon Yangon National National National National National 1 October 2013 2 October 2013 4 October 2013 9 October 2013 15 October 2013 1. Programme Officer (Contract Management) (LICA6) 2. Administrative Assistant (Transport Management) (LICA3) 3. Driver (LICA1) 4. Team Assistant (Directors Office) (LICA2)
The benefit package for the above positions includes an attractive remuneration, 30 days annual leave and 10 holidays per year, medical insurance, learning and development opportunities and a challenging working environment with 200 national and international colleagues. For details please visit UNOPS website https://gprs.unops.org and click on the post you are interested in applying for. All applications must be made through UNOPS E-recruitment system. For Sr.3, applicants are kindly requested to submit by manual application (paper) to HR Unit, UNOPS Myanmar at No. 12(O), Pyithu Lane, 7 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon. If you have further queries, please contact 95 1 657 281-7 Ext: 149
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Property 27
$280
MILLION
There are widespread fears the venue could become a white elephant after next years June 12-July 13 tournament, hence the need to find alternative uses for the ground. Similar fears surround the construction of three other arenas in Brasilia, Cuiaba and Natal, although first division matches held in Brasilia featuring top teams from elsewhere have drawn large crowds.
PARIS
28 Property
the outskirts, otherwise they have a two hour ride to the city centre if theres traffic. The interior is roomy enough at 1625 square feet, though it contains only two bedrooms, with one on each floor. The kitchen and dining rooms are located to the rear, while there is a separate shrine room. It has plenty of natural light from well-positioned windows, and is nicely decorated, though there is some cosmetic maintenance that requires work. Ei Thae Thae Naing
Thingangyun township
Reg. No. 5295/2013 in respect of Intl Class 5: Pharmaceutical and veterinary preparations; Diagnostic preparations; Sanitary preparations for medical purposes . Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
TRANSACTION taxes on Yangon property will become harder to avoid beginning October 1st as authorities complete a city-wide assessment of neighbourhood values, according to Yangon Regional Revenue Department officials. The moves comes in an attempt to combat buyers claiming an artificially low value for their home purchases in order to avoid paying a transaction tax that can run as high as 37 percent, said an department official who requested anonymity. The government thought that it would assess land prices, as it will then make tax paying more fair and equitable, he said. Currently there is little to stop a buyer of, for instance, a K10 billion (US$51 million) property from recording the price to an arbitrary low figure such as K50 million at the Appraisal Department, he said. The department has had challenges creating an appraisal system because of the wide disparity between property values even within the same neighbourhood. We have now assessed land prices depend on the local situation so people can pay fair taxes based on the value of the property, he said. The official added that
many might mistake the tax assessment value with a government-imposed fixed value for the land, but he stressed the government will not regulate buying and selling prices in the market. Government teams visited Yangons neighbourhoods to determine maximum and minimum values for property. The finished report was sent to the Union government, then the Ministry of Finance and Revenue, who signed off on the assessments. Realtors and businesspeople said they were split on the move to assess values to determine property taxes, with some claiming the system is a more equitable way of sharing the tax burden, but others saying it has scared off investment in property. Daw Ei Khine, a broker in Yangons East Dagon township, said rumours tied to the move had scared off potential buyers who must now pay the full transaction taxes. Before the information came out [regarding the tax] I had customers every day, but now I get customers once a week, she said. But Ko Htun Htun, owner of Phoenix real estate agency, said buyers do not need to pay the majority of the transaction tax if they can show the source of the income they are using to buy the property. I think the move wont disturb the property market because most big businessmen can show clean money, he said, adding that even people who could not show clean money and therefore avoid
Several of Yangons recent assessment values displayed on a map of the city. Although dozens of neighbourhoods have been assessed, several examples are presented here for comparison
Kyaik Wine Pagoda Rd Mayangone Tsp K135,000 (per sq ft)
Ayeyar Wun Main Rd Tharketa Tsp K45,000 (per sq ft) Pyay Road Sanchaung Tsp K275,000 (sq ft) Bogyoke Aung San Rd Kyauktada Tsp K240,000 (per sq ft)
the full tax were still keen to get a piece of the rising property market. Myanmar Real Estate Services Association general secretary Daw Moh Moh Aung said the current market has slowed particularly in the outskirts because of rumours surrounding the assessment efforts. The market has already recovered after the rules were clarified, and my guess is the
Myanmar property market will be strong until 2015, she said. U Win Sein, owner of a medium-sized farming sector business, said he would have to pay the full tax for Yangon realty investments, as he could not show evidence on paper for the source of capital for his planned property investment. He added the situation is not unusual for businesspeople operating in Myanmar.
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PARIS
prototype for all vertebrates, a research team wrote in the journal Nature. This astounding discovery does throw a spanner in the works of some long-held ideas about vertebrate evolution, said study co-author Brian Choo from the Institute of Vertebrate Palaeontology and Palaeoanthropology in Beijing. The implications are clear: Ostheichthyans did not independently acquire their bony skeletons, they simply inherited them from their ancestors -- heavily-armoured fish known as placoderms that are accepted to be the most primitive members of the jawed vertebrate family.
Osteichthyans didnt go through an unarmoured shark-like... stage during their early evolution only to reacquire their bone later on, they simply kept the plates directly from their ... ancestors, said Mr. Choo. This meant that sharks and rays, instead of being the archetypal vertebrates, shed the common ancestors bony plates as they evolved, said the team. The newly discovered creature, dubbed Entelognathus primordialis (meaning primordial complete jaw) was a type of placoderm that lived in the seas of China in the Late Silurian period from about 423 million to 416 million years ago. AFP
ROTTERDAM
Of course everybody has to fight for better service with competition, but everybody needs better service.
U Tin Win YPT Chief Executive
Mark Robinson, Southeast Asia head of telecoms for Herbert Smith Freehills law firm, said the mobile broadband market will likely be the driver of internet penetration in Myanmar, but added there will be opportunities providing fixed broadband with businesses and urban dwellers looking for faster speeds and more reliable connections. Domestic internet penetration stands around 1pc according to most estimates. ISPs such as Redlink and YTP should be more concerned about competition from newly licensed ISPs in the future than direct competition from Telenor and Ooredoo, according to Mr Robinson. U Thein Than Toe said he would
World
LONDON
AWARAN
Earthquake survivors clear debris in Awaran, Pakistan, on September 25. Photo: AFP
The government is completely missing and we have not received a single relief item like tents or food.
Abdul Razzaq Pakistan earthquake survivor
Deadliest earth
2013 September 24 Pakistan: At least 230 people are killed in a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that strikes Baluchistan Province. July 22 China: At least 95 are killed and more than 1400 injured in twin earthquakes in Gansu Province in northwestern China, magnitudes 5.9 and 5.6. April 20 China: At least 200 people are killed and 13,000 injured when a 6.6-magnitude quake hit Sichuan Province on the edge of the Tibetan plateau. April 16 Iran/Pakistan: A 7.8-magnitude quake centred in Iran leaves one dead there and kills 40 across the border in Pakistans Baluchistan. 2012 November 11 Myanmar: A 6.8-magnitude earthquake leaves 38 dead or missing.
A man reads a newspaper in Nairobi, Kenya, on September 25 as security forces patrol the streets following an attack on the citys Westgate Mall. Photo: AFP
At least 357 people died and 620 others injured, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority said in Quetta on September 27. It said 311 people died in Awaran district, where the quake struck, and 46 were killed in neighbouring Kech district. The sheer scale of the territory involved is daunting the population of Awaran is scattered over more than 21,000 square kilometres
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UNITED NATIONS
NEW YORK
BRIEFS
Colon Panama slaps US$1m fine on N Korean ship
The Panama Canal Authority announced on September 26 that it was imposing a US$1 million fine on a North Korean cargo ship caught with an undeclared shipment of Cuban weapons in July. The canal administrator, Jorge Quijano, said the ship was sanctioned because it put our canal and our people at risk to a certain point. The fine was delivered to the freighters captain and owners, he said, adding that the boat is barred from unmooring until they pay at least two-thirds of the penalty, or around $650,000. He said the penalty could change depending on the response of the ships owners, but they have not replied. The Panamanian government said last month that a United Nations report found that the shipment was a violation of UN sanctions against arms transfers to North Koreas communist regime. The ship, the Chong Chon Gang, was intercepted on July 10 as it tried to enter the Panama Canal on suspicion it was carrying drugs. Authorities uncovered 25 containers of military hardware, including two Soviet-era MiG-21 fighter jets, air defence systems, missiles, and command and control vehicles. restricting the trade in illicit small arms, but Russia refused to back the measure. Russia was the only member of the 15-nation body not to support the resolution drawn up by Australia, the councils current president. The measure calls on nations to consider signing a new treaty in conventional arms, as well as for strengthening the implementation of Security Council weapons embargoes and securing arms stockpiles. Russia, which abstained from the vote, said the resolution should have contained provisions against illegal supplies of arms to nonstate groups. Minister Tony Abbott who once described the science behind manmade climate change as absolute crap in a bid to find savings and trim the civil service. Mr Flannery said a huge groundswell of public support for the commission had prompted him to resurrect the watchdog as a publicly funded operation, with donations pouring in at a rate of AUD$1000 (US$940) an hour.
An independent Australian climate change watchdog axed by the countrys new conservative government was resurrected on September 24 as a nonprofit body funded by public donations. Formerly known as the Climate Commission, the rebranded Climate Council will continue public information campaigns about the science of climate change, emissions targets and international action. Make no mistake, were in the middle of a titanic struggle. Indeed, I think that the fight for a clean and safe environmental future is reaching its peak, said Tim Flannery, who previously headed the commission. The resistance and the disinformation just keep growing. Thats why we are here today. The body was dumped by new Prime
Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas on September 26 demanded that any peace deal with Israel be permanent, calling new US-brokered talks a last chance. Speaking before the UN General Assembly, Mr Abbas urged international pressure to stop Israeli settlement building on Palestinian land. Time is running out, and the window of peace is narrowing and the opportunities are diminishing, he said. The current round of negotiations appears to be a last chance to realise a just peace. Mr Abbas, who has frequently turned to the United Nations to build support, began his speech by voicing pride at being introduced as president of the state of Palestine following a UN vote in November to grant it observer status. Abbas said that the peace process with Israel relaunched after exhaustive missions by US Secretary of State John Kerry needed to result in a permanent peace. AFP
PHNOM PENH
Beijing China court jails generals son for decade over gang rape
A court sentenced the teenage son of a Chinese general to 10 years in jail for rape on September 26, after his trial threw a spotlight on the lives of Chinas elite. Li Tianyi, 17, and four other men were found guilty of raping a woman in a Beijing hotel in February, Beijing court authorities said on a verified social media account.
South Korean prosecutors on September 26 formally charged a leftist lawmaker with plotting an armed revolt in support of North Korea. United Progressive Party MP Lee Seok-Ki was charged under the tough National Security Law a sweeping piece of legislation enacted in 1948 to guard against espionage and other threats from a belligerent North Korea. The sedition charges levelled against Mr Lee are rarely used, especially against a sitting member of parliament. Prosecutors said they would provide evidence of Mr Lee telling an underground radical group in May to prepare attacks on South Koreas communication lines and railways in case of a war with the North. Mr Lee made his alleged remarks at a time of soaring tensions between North and South Korea. AFP
Cambodia National Rescue Party leader Sam Rainsy speaks during a press conference in Phnom Penh on September 25. Photo: AFP
His comments came a day after the legislature with only MPs from the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP) in attendance reappointed Hun Sen for another five-year term as prime minister, extending his nearly three decades in power. The United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Cambodia, Surya Subedi, expressed deep regret at the decision to open parliament without the opposition, in comments in Geneva on September 24. He slammed indiscriminate and excessive use of force during three days of mass protest in the capital in
mid-September, which saw one protester shot dead and several wounded as security forces clashed with a stonethrowing crowd. Noting further accusations of crackdowns on peaceful protests on September 21 and 22, Mr Subedi urged the authorities, in the strongest possible terms, to refrain from further use of violence. Having seen the authorities, who exercised considerable restraint for weeks, again resorting to old tactics that violate basic civil rights in the past few days, I believe it is clear that Cambodia today stands at a crossroads, said Mr Subedi. AFP
TOKYO
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Asia-Pacific World 33
Photo: AFP A policeman removes campaign posters for candidates in the Northern Provincial Council election in Jaffna, Sri Lanka, on September 20.
COLOMBO
(Reg: Nos. IV/1316/2005 & IV/1432/2006) in respect of :- Whitening cream, moisturizing cream, body lotion, cosmetic use for eyes, cosmetic use for face, cosmetic use for neck, cosmetic use for body, soap, bath cream, facial foam, lip gloss, sun block for face and body Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for Mr. Supakchai Kiatanant P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 30th September, 2013
The role of the military in the electoral campaign was consistently described to the mission as a significant obstacle to a credible electoral process.
Commonwealth Secretariat
The military has denied it was involved in intimidation. Despite the reports of harassment, the Tamil National Alliance won 30 out of the 38 seats in the council, raising hopes of some degree of self-rule for the
crushed by a Sri Lankan military onslaught in 2009, which remains dogged by war crimes allegations. The army maintains a heavy presence throughout the northern region of about 1 million people. AFP
NEW DELHI
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Asia-Pacific World 35
SEOUL
My expectations were sky high, but now I just feel ... emptied. Its incredibly cruel and disappointing.
Cheung Hi-Kyung Victim of Korean family reunion cancellation
North Korean Min Soon-Bi, 86, grasps the hand of her younger sister during a family reunion at Mount Kumgang, North Korea, on November 3, 2010. Photo: AFP
Up to 73,000 South Koreans are wait-listed for a chance to take part in one of the reunion events, which select only a few hundred participants at a time. The critical time factor was underlined by the case of Kim Young-Joon, 91, who had been scheduled to meet his North Korean sister and brother in Mount Kumgang. While giving an interview to a South Korean television channel on September 19, Mr Kim suffered a massive heart attack and died. For Cheung Hi-Kyung, 80,
the southeastern city of Daegu. Im not going to give up hope completely, but time is obviously running short. The first reunions in 1985 coincided with a short-lived thaw in North-South relations, but they were discontinued for the next 15 years. A historic inter-Korean summit in 2000 saw the program resumed in earnest, and an estimated 17,000 people have been reunited since then. But the gatherings were suspended again in 2010 following the Norths shelling of a South
is beyond description, Mr Heo said. All our work was rendered obsolete overnight, but our real
concern is for these people. Some family members on our list are in their 90s and could die any time. AFP
SYDNEY
(Reg: No. IV/808/2002) in respect of :- Plate, tray, cup or tumbler, bucket, basin, jug or pitcher, canister, flask for keeping water, a vacuum flask for keeping food cold, plastic box, plastic basket. Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for PASTINA Co., Ltd. P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 30th September, 2013
BEIJING
(Reg: No. IV/8891/2013) in respect of:- Chocolate covered biscuits; biscuits; chocolate; confectionery Class -30 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates For EZAKI GLICO KABUSHIKI KAISHA P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 30th September, 2013
36 World International
ALEPPO
DURABOLIN
Reg. No. 1485/1997
in respect of Medicines and pharmaceutical preparations for human use (Intl Class 5). Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for N.V. Organon P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
Reg. No. 3151/1991 in respect of Motor vehicles, parts and accessories thereof . Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Chrysler Group LLC P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
PLYMOUTH
Abu Mohammad shows a grenade to a customer at his gun shop in Aleppo, Syria, on September 21. Photo: AFP
ANTONIO PAMPLIEGA WHILE most Syrians get poorer with every day of war, Aleppos main gun seller Abu Mohammad is doing just fine by selling firearms, including rocket-propelled grenades and ammunition, and even swords. War is great business, says the northern citys only gun shop owner as he lays several hand grenades out on a counter. I wanted to help the rebels because they had no arms or ammunition, the 39-yearold says, adding that he makes an astonishing 50,000 Syrian pounds (US$370) a day. Mr Mohammad opened his gun store in the rebel-held neighbourhood of Fardos earlier this year after a leg injury cut short a nine-month stint battling alongside the Free Syrian Army. Several weapons are exhibited on the shop walls, including 9mm guns and AK47 assault rifles, one of them silver-plated. Theyre made in Iraq and Russia, and prices range from $1500 to $2000, depending on the quality, says Mr Mohammads 20-year-old son, a rebel fighter who lends a hand in the store. We also have military uniforms, boots, gas masks and walkie-talkies. Most of the material comes from Turkey. Reaching for a 9mm gun, he says he enjoys helping his father out in the shop because he love[s] weapons. Its 4pm and the two men running the family business are busy serving clients. Mohammad Assi, 43, walks in along
with several of his brothers-in-arms. He is looking for ammunition for his rifle. Counting a wad of cash, Mr Assi says he would like to buy a new rifle, but these models arent very good and theyre too expensive. He hands over 15,000 Syrian pounds for 150 rounds.
We also buy weapons off people who need the money to feed their families.
Abu Mohammad Syrian gun shop owner
Reg. No. 5296/2013 in respect of Intl Class 10: Medical equipment for measuring gas content in expired breath to determine existence of microorganism in human digestive organs; Medical diagnosis equipment for digestive organs; Diagnostic apparatus and instruments. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
100 pounds for a bullet, the rebel sighs. Ammo is so scarce. Thats why its the most expensive thing to buy. Gun seller Mr Mohammad understands theres a shortage of cash, so hes open to making deals with some of his clients. When the rebels seize an army base, they come to my store and swap weapons for ammunition, he says. Some buyers come in looking for more specialised products, including one who wants a scope that will help locate
snipers. Another walks in holding three swords and shows them to Mr Mohammad, who unsheathes them and inspects them for quality. We also buy weapons off people who need the money to feed their families, Mr Mohammad says. Before the war broke out, there were many people who collected weapons or who held onto them after theyd finished their draft service. They arent going to use them, so they bring them over to me to make some money off them. More than a year after a massive rebel assault on Aleppo once Syrias commercial capital the city is divided into rebeland army-controlled districts. Those who have not fled the city face not only escalating poverty and daily battles in their districts, but also the danger of theft and looting by criminal groups. Im here to buy a gun, says a 65-yearold man who has brought his grandson to Mr Mohammads store. Because of the situation, I prefer to be armed in order to protect my family. The gun seller is also adept at repairing damaged weapons. Laying out a sniper rifle on his work table, he points a laser light through the barrel to check its accuracy. Ive always liked fixing weapons and making them, said Mr Mohammad, who used to work at a weapons factory. Its one of the few things Im good at, he adds with a smile. AFP
BRIEFS
Brasilia Brazil court orders senate to drop super-salaries
A Brazil court on September 25 ordered the senate to suspend all salaries over US$12,500 and to refund nearly $90 million that have been paid in excess wages. An audit by the court found some 464 officials working for the chamber received super-salaries, well above the constitutional limit of around $12,500 a month for public sector employees. We cannot continue with these differentiated wages, with people earning salaries like princes and [other] persons receiving minimum wage of 678 reais ($300), presiding Judge Augusto Nardes said, according to state-run Agencia Brasil. The court gave the senate 30 days to enforce the measure. Senate President Renan Calheiros pledged in a statement the body would immediately implement the reduction in salaries to the constitutional limit.
Livestock farming makes up 14.5 percent of all human-caused greenhouse gas emissions, the UN food agency said on September 26, proposing solutions like breeding less-flatulent types of cows. The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) said the methane from livestock every year was equivalent to around 144 million tonnes of oil enough to power the whole of South Africa. The Rome-based agency said that existing methods, including changing animal diets and farming animal feed more efficiently, could reduce emissions by up to 30pc. FAOs report found the biggest source of emissions was in feed production and processing around 45pc of the total while animal gases accounted for around 39pc.
Three boats carrying more than 700 asylum-seekers some of whom were Syrian refugees landed in Italy on September 25, the Coast Guard said. The new arrivals reflected a sharp increase in boats landing with people fleeing conflict-torn parts of the Mediterranean region and the Horn of Africa. Two of the boats arrived on the island of Lampedusa, Italys southernmost point and a major gateway for undocumented migration into the European Union. The first boat had 398 Syrians on board. The second had 111 whose nationality was yet to be determined. The latest arrivals have caused severe overcrowding on the tiny islands temporary migrant centre, which can only house 350 people and was already too full. A third boat, which was spotted by a patrol plane on September 24, arrived in the port of Syracuse in Sicily with around 200 people on board, including 70 children. AFP
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MOSCOW
International World 37
Reg. No. 14919/2012 in respect of Corsetry, lingerie, bras, swimsuits. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Anita Dr. Helbig GmbH P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
A Greenpeace activist dressed as a polar bear holds a banner in front of the Arctic Sunrise protest ship in Kola Bay, Russia, on September 24. Photo: AFP
ABILIFY
Reg. No. 5283/2013
ABILIFY Maintena
Reg. No. 5284/2013
SAMSCA
Reg. No. 5285/2013
PLETAAL
Reg. No. 5286/2013
MUCOSTA
Reg. No. 5287/2013
BUSULFEX
Reg. No. 5288/2013 Reg. No. 5289/2013
MINSK
WASHINGTON
JINARC
ARTEOPTIC
Reg. No. 5290/2013 Reg. No. 5291/2013 in respect of Intl Class 5: Pharmaceutical and veterinary preparations; Diagnostic preparations; Sanitary preparations for medical purposes . Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 30 September 2013
UBIT
38 World International
BAIKONUR
Reg. No. 4/2037/2013 in respect of Class 29: Frozen Fishes, Food prepared from fish. Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said Trademark will be dealt with according to law. U Nyunt Tin Associates International Limited Intellectual Property Division Tel: 959 4500 59 247-8, 951 375754, Fax: 951 254321 Email: info@untlw.com For: PACIFIC FISH PROCESSING CO., LTD. Dated: 30 September, 2013.
TRADEMARK CAUTION
GREAT BRANDS LIMITED, a company incorporated in Hong Kong and having its registered office at Room 901-2, Silvercord Tower 1, 30 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong, is the owner and proprietor of the following Trademarks:
US astronaut Michael Hopkins (left) and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kotov attend a press conference on the eve of their launch to the International Space Station at Baikonur cosmodrome in Kazakhstan on September 24. Photo: AFP
4/3019/2013(21.3. 2013)
4/3022/2013 (20.3.2013)
4/3023/2013 (21.3.2013)
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used during the relay ceremony for the 2014 Olympic Winter Games that Russia will be hosting in the port city of Sochi. The new team joined Russian commander Fyodor Yurchikhin and his two flight engineers Karen Nyberg of NASA and Italian Luca Parmitano of the European Space Agency. The four-month stay of those three has been more eventful than they might have liked. Mr Parmitano suffered a scare during a spacewalk on July 16 when his helmet began to fill with an unidentified liquid. I feel that the temperature of the liquid is too cold to be sweat and above all I have the distinct sensation it is increasing in volume, Mr Parmitano later wrote in a gripping present-tense account of the
incident in a post on the European Space Agency website. He described being blinded and suffocated as he struggled to make his way back to the airlock. The Italian said communications were also breaking apart as the water began covering his headphones and he struggled to hear instructions from NASA mission control in Houston. Russia, meanwhile, is struggling to prove to the worlds other space-faring nations that its mostly Soviet-designed systems are reliable enough to continue humanitys conquest of space. The 2011 retirement of the US Space Shuttle program made Soyuz the worlds last remaining manned link with the ISS. AFP
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4/3027/2013 (20.3.2013)
ROME
DIYARBAKIR
4/3020/2013 (20.3.2013)
4/3029/2013 (20.3.2013)
4/3025/2013 (21.3.2013) 4/3021/2013 (20.3.2013) In respect of Aerated water; soft drink; drinks consisting of carbonate; flavor drink; aerated flavor drink; fruit flavored beverage; fruit juices; Citrus flavor fruit juice; mineral water; syrups for mixing beverage; concentrates for making beverage in Class 32. Fraudulent or unauthorised use or actual or colourable imitation of the Marks shall be dealt with according to law. U Than Maung, Advocate For GREAT BRANDS LIMITED, C/o Kelvin Chia Yangon Ltd., #1508-1509, 15th Floor, Sakura Tower, Yangon, The Republic of the Union of Myanmar Dated 30 September 2013 utm@kcyangon.com
Silvio Berlusconi poses at PDL party headquarters in Rome on September 19. Photo; AFP
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LONDON
Skeletons are part of the mystery being unearthed in the tunnels of Londons new Crossrail network, Europes largest ongoing construction project. Photo: Crossrail
A Brazilian territory is believed to have become the first region in Latin America to ban the sale of toy guns as the country attempts to staunch an epidemic of firearm-related crime. The Federal District, which encompasses the countrys capital Brasilia and various satellite towns, launched the initiative as Brazil moved to tackle its murder rate. With a population of more than 200 million, Brazil recorded 43,000 violent deaths last year, 73 percent from firearms. The initiative to ban the sale and manufacture of toy guns was part of a government program said to be unique in Latin America to protect victims of violence. The program launched a campaign against such toys in Ceilandia, the most violent city within the Federal District. Children were asked to turn over their toy guns in exchange for a book.
fanned out at 40 excavation sites over the length of the US$24 billion Crossrail project, an ambitious line linking points east and west in what is already one of the worlds most dizzyingly vast transit systems. Until the 1970s, archaeologists here say, relatively little emphasis was put on history when building transport tunnels. Many finds, typically discovered in the top 5 metres (16 feet) of soil, were seen as mild curiosities or undesired obstacles. But urban archaeologists planned for half a dozen years for the Crossrail project. They created computer models that examined the 118km network in the light of historical records and ancient maps to target the most tantalising sites for digs. But going underground in a city with a chequered past has not been for the fainthearted. A stones throw from Londons Smithfield meat market, for example, excavation crews in March made an unappetising discovery what is believed to be one of the citys two great graveyards for victims of the 14th centurys Black Death. The victims buried near Smithfield once lived in a cesspool of a city ridden with rats, fleas and open sewers before dying in the first wave of a plague that would depopulate Europe for centuries. Now, their remains are being analysed by British scientists who are attempting to map the DNA of the London plague and establish whether it matches
the strands that brought a horrific early end to millions on the continent. The plague find, however, may as well hail from yesterday compared with other discoveries emerging from the dig sites. In this city that started life as a backwater outpost of the Roman Empire, a days work last week in the financial district yielded a stunning fragment of bright orange pottery at least 1500 years old. Archaeologists have also come a step closer to filling in the map of Roman Londinium, discovering the massive wooden stakes of an old Roman road. It ran along a stream where steel and glass now rise from the earth. Farther east and deeper back in history, diggers found evidence of Mesolithic Londoners who established a 9000-yearold flint factory for making blades. They hunted by the marshy Thames long before the big game in this town became the primal stalking of stocks and bonds, mergers and acquisitions. Yet many of the finds have seemed to only confirm the stereotype of Londoners as living in a capital of the macabre. I guess we really havent changed much, said Alison Telfer, laughing. The archaeologist for the Museum of London was digging in the shadow of the Bethlem Royal Hospital, now run by the National Health Service. We had a crazy past, and wed do it all again. The Washington Post
More than 80 elephants and other animals have died of cyanide poisoning by poachers in Zimbabwes largest game park, wildlife authorities said on September 24. The announcement came after a group of government experts visited Hwange National Park on September 21 to investigate reports of cyanide poisoning. When we left Hwange National Park on September 22, the total number of elephants that had died from cyanide poisoning was 81, said Jerry Gotora, a director of the Zimbabwe Parks Department. More than 25,000 elephants were poached last year, according to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). The animals tusks are highly sought after for Asias ivory trade. Nine people have been arrested on suspicion of poisoning watering holes in the game park to kill the elephants for their tusks.
Two Britons and three Italians were charged on September 24 with smuggling 1.3 tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated US$270 million into Paris on an Air France flight, a judicial source said. The drugs were concealed inside 30 suitcases that were placed on a plane from the Venezuelan capital Caracas to Paris on September 11. Paris judges charged the five men, aged between 26 and 45, with importing and trafficking narcotics in an organised gang, the source said. Venezuelan authorities detained 10 people in connection with the drug bust, including an officer from the anti-drug unit of the Bolivarian National Guard and two National Guard sergeants. According to police sources, the drugs arrived in France on September 11 but were not seized until the 20th, the investigators apparently having allowed time to see who was picking them up. AFP
WASHINGTON
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MANNY MAUNG manny.maung@gmail.com HE Chindwin Chambers on 38th Street may not rank as high on the list of Yangons well-known colonial buildings as The Strand Hotel around the corner does, but River Gallery art curator Gill Pattison says its graceful proportions and high ceilings make it an ideal venue for an art gallery. Shes right: Formerly housing the offices of the Inland Water Transport Department, the Chindwin Chambers building has been newly refurbished to house the River Gallery II, a more spacious extension of the primary space established inside The Strand in 2005. The building is a dramatic example of how old spaces can be converted for modern use without losing their historical appeal and how the tensions and juxtapositions inherent in such reclaimed spaces can provide a vibrant atmosphere for staging and appreciating forward-looking art. sculpture and painting with ease. Despite being one of the countrys most creative young artists, hes better known abroad. No doubt, however, his current show at River Gallery II will help change all that. Aung Ko was born in Pyay in 1980 and studied Fine Art Painting at the University of Culture in Yangon. His work has been exhibited throughout Asia, and was included in the German Goethe Instituts River Scapes IN FLUX show, which toured Hanoi, Saigon, Bangkok and Phnom Penh and will soon head to Jakarta and Manila. After a show last year in Milan in which his work, presented alongside other leading Southeast Asian artists, garnered an overwhelmingly positive reaction Aung Ko has been invited back for a solo show later this year at the same gallery. The exhibition, now being shown at River Gallery II is a preview of that show, with works being put on display in Yangon for just a few days before being shipped to Italy. Italian curator Iola Lenzi says Aung Kos work perfectly captures the intellectual agility of the art work that comes from this region. Like all Southeast Asian practitioners of integrity, Aung Ko is never a slave to medium or technique, but rather carefully identifies the optimum form, medium and expressive genre to support and further his concept.
in Yangon
IN FLUX The movement to preserve heritage buildings to make something new out of something old reflects the equally adventurous manifesto of many in Yangons artistic scene today. More and more artists are seeking to push past traditional concepts of art and challenge the status quo, and with exciting changes happening all around them, these artists are at last finding their audience is able to keep up with their visions. Aung Ko is a conceptual artist who transitions between performance, photography,
WE ARE MOVING As part of the River Gallery exhibition, a number of Aung Kos works will be displayed to showcase his talent in different mediums. One highlight for the Yangon audience is sure to be the We are Moving series of paintings (2012) and sculptures, inspired by the April 2010 bomb blasts during the Thingyan water festival celebrations,which killed nine people and injured 170 in Yangon. Several photographers taking pictures of the scene were arrested
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architecture
for illegally documenting the event. Defying censorship, Aung Ko recorded on canvas the aftermath of the explosion and the tussle and stampede that followed the attack. The works draw on Aung Kos personal experience his witnessing of crowd panic but while they narrate the fearful atmosphere they are simultaneously distant and unemotional, a starkly objective portrayal of a dark moment in the citys history. As moving as they are, the paintings alone did not satisfy Aung Kos need to depict the fearcharged scene. He embarked on a series of sculptures to render in three dimensions some of the figures he had observed from his balcony. As he usually does, Aung Ko chose the path less taken in selecting his materials. He decided to use fiberglass, a medium not readily used by other Myanmar artists. The laborious process took months first modelling the figures in clay, then creating a plaster cast before coating that with the fiberglass. Aung Kos artwork will be exhibited for just four days before being taken to Milan for his next exhibition. The shows short run ought to be the perfect motivation for all art-lovers to clear their calendar for a visit to River Gallery II both to enjoy the art on display and the equally compelling architecture that frames it. The gallery is also showing larger works by contemporary talents including Zaw Win Pe, Kyee Myint Saw and Ngwe Aung, among others, so there should be something for all tastes. Aung Kos work will be shown October 5-8 at River Gallery II, No 33, 38th streets (around the corner from The Strand). For more information, email rivergalleryart@gmail.com or visit www.rivergallerymyanmar.com
Internationally renowned artist, Aung Ko, will display his fiberglass master pieces at River Gallery II from October 5. Photo: Supplied
zonpann08@gmail.com
VEN from outside the little thatched cottage, the chant of the little nuns reciting letters in the Myanmar alphabet could be heard through the walls of bamboo matting. When it rains heavily and the earthen floor is flooded, teaching is suspended and the girls take a nap in the dormitory or stroll around the prayer room. The trainee nuns are orphans, or have been entrusted to the convent by a single parent who cannot cope. If a girl from a single-parent family is founded uncared for, her relatives or neighbours bring her to my convent, said Daw Kinsana Malar, the 48-yearold head nun at Shwe Yadanar charity convent school in Yangon. They come from Shan, Kayin and Rakhine states and the Ayeyarwady delta. Most come from one-parent families. When a father or mother dies, the surviving parent cant look after them alone. So they bring their daughters here, she said. Daw Kinsana Malar has a firm belief that people can come to salvation through religious faith. They are less fortunate because they cant live with their parents for long. When a girl is brought here, I let her take a religious vow, offer tonsure and robes, and raise her in my convent. I believe religion can shape their lives to be better, and embracing a life of prayer helps soften the blow, she said. She and a group of senior nuns founded Shwe Yadanar convent in Shwe Pyi Thar, Yangon township in
2008 and would take in younger girls. I am afraid poor girls are more at risk of exploitation if nobody protects them. I help them avoid the wrong paths, she added. The nuns are also caring for a twoyear-old boy whose mother died young. The boy and his four-year-old sister were abandoned by their alcoholic father. Their grandmother left them in the safe-keeping of nuns, and though only girls may enter the convent, the nuns were happy to look after the boy. When he is grown we will send him to the monastery to become a novice, she said.
The nuns eat two meals a day, at dawn and in the late morning. Breakfast includes rice, fish paste and boiled peas, and the second meal is salad or vegetables. They eat meat once a week. Adult nuns work on the plantation, harvesting the vegetables they grow and cooking for all the nuns. Donors often come and serve lunch with meat to nuns, she said. Some little nuns returned home because they didnt like the food, she added. At night, sweets or palm sugar are served. The number of girls at the convent reached its peak in 2008 when Cyclone
Nargis struck the Ayeyarwady delta. When the cyclone hit, we went to the disaster areas to save children who were unable to pursue their studies because of the destruction of their schools, she said. We admitted girls whose parents had lost their property and could not longer look after them, she said. At that time we admitted about 30 girls under the age of 11 from delta villages in Laputa, she added. I dont force them to become nuns. If the children are happy about entering the convent, we just allow them, said Daw Kinsana Malar.
The convent provides Buddhist teaching, and young nuns beginning their formal education are sent to nearby monastic schools in Shwe Pyi Thar township. In 2013, the convent was officially permitted to open a primary school and started to build thatched cottages in a two-acre plot of land to use as classrooms. I wont hesitate to give them back to their relatives if they are able to bring them up. But their families hardly ever come to see them, she said. I dont intend for them to spend their whole life in the convent. The convent school educates 100 nuns from two to 20 years of age. Young nuns at the primary level study at the convent school and those at the middle and high school levels go to nearby monastic schools. The primary school is not only for nuns in the convent, but also for the children and novices from nearby houses and monasteries in Shwe Pyi Thar. The school provides education, textbooks, school uniforms and school stationery free of charge, she added. Ma Marnita Nyarni, a 23-year-old nun who has been in the convent since she was 13, said, When my parents passed away, I entered the convent. I dont know why I really enjoy life as a nun. I intend to spend the whole life as a nun, she said. She instructs the little nuns in Buddhist teaching. When I go outside the convent, I see young women beautifully dressed and working actively. They are full of fun and I admire them sometimes. At that time, I read books written by venerable monks and my mind turns back to religion again, she said. I believe religion plays an important role in shaping our attitudes and changing our lives for the better.
Photographer Richard Diran says he will donate his collection to the Myanmar public. Photo: Supplied
44 the pulse
A 70-year-old female skin diver reaps the fruits of the sea, living a lifestyle that has been practised in parts of Japan for thousands of years. Photo: Antoine Bouthier
as 40 abalone in a day, but now getting four counts as a good day, said fellow free diver Sumiko Nakagawa, her face lined by her years in the salty water under the beating sun. Pollution and overfishing have taken their toll on abalone, the main source of income for these women, with the creatures population dropping by 90 percent in the last 40 years in Japan. A kilogram (2.2 pounds) of wild
abalone sells for around 8,000 yen (US$80), although most consumed in Japan are now farmed. In 2011 local authorities released young abalone into the ocean in a bid to prop up their numbers. They also ban the use of scuba tanks and limit catches to specimens over 10 centimetres (4 inches) long a size they usually reach around the age of 10. This kind of fishing was once the sole preserve of women, who were
commonly believed to be better at coping with the sometimes-cold water because of a thicker layer of fat under their skin. It was also traditionally done topless, although their most famous cinematic outing in James Bonds 1967 effort You Only Live Twice saw sultry actresses protect their modesty with skimpy bikini tops as they cavorted with Sean Connery. The advent of wetsuits opened
HIGH blood pressure, or hypertension, may be the most common illness faced by humans, yet as a global society we remain woefully inadequate in protecting ourselves against it. Simply stated, hypertension means the pressure in your blood vessels is too great, resulting in body organs getting damaged from working too hard to complete their regular function. The primary problem with high blood pressure is that you dont feel it doing damage to your heart, brain and kidneys. The secondary problem is that doctors, national health systems and patients remain inadequately committed to getting hypertension properly evaluated and treated. Hypertension is an easy diagnosis to make. It requires two or more blood pressure readings greater than a systolic of 140 or a diastolic of 90. (Systolic is the pressure experienced by vessels when your heart beats; diastolic is the baseline pressure when your heart is resting.) The procedure for measuring blood pressure is neither painful nor invasive just a cuff that squeezes your arm for a minute. The medicines used for treatment are inexpensive and easily available globally.
Nevertheless, getting people diagnosed, tested and treated for hypertension remains one of our biggest global health challenges. A large research study published this month in The Journal of the American Medical Association found that in a sample of patients from 17 high, middle and low-income countries, only 47 per cent of those with high blood pressure were aware of their condition. Furthermore, just 32pc of patients who knew they had high blood pressure were adequately keeping it under control. While we dont know exactly how common hypertension is in Myanmar estimates range from 21pc to 57pc of people we can safely say that there are far more people inadequately treated for hypertension than are inadequately treated for malaria, tuberculosis and HIV combined. In fact, the World Health Organization has found high blood pressure to be the number one mortality risk factor in our region. I was happy to see that a Health Communication Forum held in Yangon a few months ago called for more local education on hypertension. The participants highlighted the dangers of increasing consumption of salty processed foods, excessive use of tobacco, higher levels of mental stress and weight gain as contributors to the growing epidemic of high blood pressure in Myanmar. It remains to be seen how effective the government and health ministries will be in responding with public health campaigns, food
Getting people diagnosed, tested and treated for hypertension remains one of our biggest global health challenges
safety regulations and the defence of open space for recreation. Regardless of national health campaigns, as an individual you are very much in control of your own destiny as far as hypertension is concerned. Any clinic can effectively screen for high blood pressure, and I recommend anyone older than 13 years should have a blood pressure check every two years. If your pressures are up, the next step will be a physical exam from a good doctor and some simple blood tests to determine the cause of hypertension.
You should then expect a detailed discussion about your own medical history (Do you smoke? Are you overweight? Do you exercise? How much stress are you under? How much salt do you eat), as well as the medical history of your family members (Others with hypertension? Any heart or kidney disease in the family?). The initial treatment for hypertension relates to lifestyle improvement. Reducing salt intake, increasing consumption of vegetables, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight and perhaps having a drink of alcohol every day are the mainstays. In fact, a combination of these behaviours is usually more effective than any pills manufactured by the pharmaceutical industry. Good lifestyle choices will benefit your entire body everything from keeping you cognitively sharper to reducing your chance of cancer and helping prevent a stroke. Ive noticed that for the right person a little increase in blood pressure can be a motivator toward leading a healthier life that results in a better long-term outlook across disease categories. Of course, lifestyle change can be challenging. Looking for ways to keep salt out of food means finding new spices in your own kitchen and choosing food carefully in restaurants. Adding more vegetables to your meals might be easier. Exercising in a congested city like Yangon means finding a park, a quiet street, a pool or a space in your home that will be
comfortable for you several days per week. As Ive discussed in this column previously, the key to a good exercise habit is choosing something thats fun for you and continuing to do it at a moderate pace over many years. Weight management is a function primarily of calorie intake, and improvement usually means incorporating the dietary habits of the entire family into your personal plan. Finally, the decision to have a drink every day should be made in conjunction with your doctor, as responsible use of alcohol is challenging to say the least. When a healthy lifestyle is insufficient for keeping blood pressure in a safe range, doctors and patients can choose from a range of medications. The decision to start pharmaceutical treatment should not be based on blood pressure alone, but rather on the cumulative risk of a persons susceptibility to heart, brain and kidney disease. Ask your doctor to conduct a Framingham Risk Analysis, which can help you decide whether to start medications and how different treatment choices might affect your risk profile. The potential harms of medication should always be weighed against their anticipated benefits. Christoph Gelsdorf is an American Board of Family Medicine physician who sees patients in Yangon and California. He is an honorary member of the Myanmar Medical Association. Reader thoughts and questions are welcomed.
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the pulse 45
CHIT SU
AKE an evening stroll through Yangons Sanchaung township and theres a good chance you will see an elderly man, crouched down by the side of the road with a watering can his hand, tending a young sapling. Everyone in the neighbourhood recognises U Kan Nyunt, who for more than half a century has been planting trees in the city in a oneman effort to keep Yangon green and shady. His 89 years show in the wrinkles and lines that crinkle as he smiles, but advancing age is not going to stop him in his endeavours. I will plant trees until I die, he says. A childhood spent in wooded countryside in Hmawbi left him with a passion for trees, and the urban landscape of Yangon seems like a desert to him, he says. During my childhood, I lived in large area of land thickly covered with trees. If someone yelled out you couldnt hear them, he recalls of his first home all those years ago. Now there is a population explosion in Yangon, but people here dont plant trees. Cutting trees is easy for them, but planting is rare. They cut the trees for no reason. They dont know how valuable trees are, he says. Born in Hmawbi in 1924, he was just 13 when he moved to Yangon and found work polishing jade and stitching shoes. During the Second World War, he worked as a nurse. After the war he married and found a job
driving a three-wheeler taxi between Karmaryut and Thaingyizay Market. I started planting trees at that time. I was very hot because I was driving the whole day. I noticed the places without trees and where people had to stand without any shade and those were the places I planted trees. I took the plants and put them in the car and in the evening planted them in vacant places by the roadside. I always carried a watering can, fork, hoe and rake in my car. It was no effort for me, because I have been a keen gardener since I was in Hmawbi. Planting trees is my passion. Planting trees by yourself is not always easy, he says, and sometimes the trees he plants are cut down immediately. In some places, I put seeds and plants in the ground secretly if they are at risk of being destroyed. I feel sad that some people will cut down or break the plants. Most people tell me this is useless and do not think to cooperate with me, but anyway, I will do my best, he says. Last year, U Kan Nyunt was awarded the 2012 The Earth Lover prize from FREDA Myanmar (Forest Resource Environment Development and Conservation Association) for planting trees. It was the first time he had received such recognition in a lifetime of planting trees. The Earth Lover award is a prize for the people who plant 1000 trees without self-profit. Last year was the first time it was awarded in Myanmar and it is now expected to be an annual event. I got the award for planting trees, but I only wish that people have ac-
U Kan Nyunt says he has been planting trees around Yangon for the past 50 years. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing
cess to the shade of trees. My prize was K150,000 and a statue. I used K100,000 to apply golden paint on a Buddha statue and donated the other K50,000 to the monastery, he said. U Kan Nyunt has four children and lives with his daughter. His daughter said that every day her father does morning worship and plants or waters trees.
None of his children is a tree planter like him, and he says he cannot persuade them to take up the habit because they are too busy working. However he believes there could be benefits to emulating his life style. Planting is my hobby and I think Ive lived a long life because of that hobby, he says looking at his daughter.
U Kan Nyunt says he wishes more people recognised how valuable trees are and planted and cared for them too. Deforestation in the country has been too rapid, he says, and more people should be concerned. I dont want any self-profit and I only feel pleasure as a planter when the trees I plant grow well.
Turkish winemakers fear they will lose their livelihood after a new law curbing the sale and advertising of alcohol came into effect in September. Photo: AFP
press and online, the sale of alcohol in shops between 10pm and 6am, and and any retail near schools and mosques. Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has defended the law as a measure to improve the populations health, but critics see it as just his latest attempt to Islamicise Turkey.
During the violent protests that swept the country in June, the law was consistently raised by demonstrators as the spectre of a more hardline Muslim nation they say is sought by Erdogan. We cant have wine tastings, we cant organise events, we cant advertise in newspapers, said Tanay.
SUDOKU PACIFIC
DILBERT
BY SCOTT ADAMS
PEANUTS
BY CHARLES SCHULZ
BY BILL WATTERSON
PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
Laugh all the way to the bank when you rent this space.
The tea break page is being re-formatted in readiness for our move to a daily cycle. It may look something like this in the future. Our market research shows that a page like this attracts a large number of readers, who loyally read it every day. Ring Khin Thandar Htay our National Sales Director to book this space permanently and laugh all the way to the bank with the extra business coming in your door.
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S a Myanmar person, I sometimes love to eat rice with curry, soup, dips or relish and vegetables. Curry can be si pyan (with a dry, caramelised gravy paste) or si kyan yay kyan (a soupy gravy). This week, I created the si kyan yay kyan, fish dip with blanched vegetables and soup for lunch. I use pla too fish (small mackerel fish) as a main ingredient. They are so cheap at the wet market and some locals call them nga thitar ngar (fish from a tin can). I adapted the Thai style fish dip with pla too but I dont add fish paste to this recipe. The taste of the mackerel is strong enough so I just want to have a simple fish dip. Grill the fish before preparing the dip. It gives a nice aroma. Chin saw kar thee (a tart quince) is used in fish soup to make it have a sour flavour. Most Shan dishes use this dried fruit and it is available in the supermarket. For the curry, I am making a duck egg omelette with su poke ywak (acacia leaves) curry. Su poke ywak has spikes/thorns and a strong smell, but the fresh sprouts are very nice and have a softer smell which end up giving it a savoury flavour. I hope this spicy fish dip and sour soup can warm you up in these heavy, rainy days. THAI STYLE PLA TOO POUNDED FISH DIP (SERVES 6) 2 pla too fish or nga thittar fish 4 cloves fish 4 onions 8-10 green small chillies
4 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoon fish sauce PREPARATION Gut and clean the fish. Sprinkle a couple of pinches of salt over the fish and leave for a few minutes. Grill the garlic, onions and green chillies. If you can push a skewer into the onions easily, it means they are ready. The garlic will be ready once the skin is broken and the aroma comes out. The green chillies should be grilled a bit longer until they are dry. If you like, add more green chillies for more heat. Grill the fish on the open fire by adding them in a grill basket or laying them on the grill pan for 3-4 minutes on each side. When the fish is cooked through, cool and then remove the bones. Add grilled onions, garlic and chillies into a handheld blender and blend the ingredients into a mixture. You can also pound them in a mortar and pestle. Add fish flakes and blend them to mix evenly. Add the fish sauce and lime juice and mix them well. You can also add extra fish sauce for saltiness and lime juice for a more sour flavour. Serve with steamed rice and blanched, pickled and fresh vegetables. It is also good as a dip with rice crackers.
DUCK EGG OMELETTE WITH SU POKE YWAK (ACACIA LEAF) CURRY (SERVES 6) 5 duck eggs 1 cups su poke ywak (acacia leaves) 3 onions (finely diced) 4 tomatoes (roughly chopped) 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon fish sauce teaspoon chilli powder PREPARATION Beat the duck egg in one bowl with 1/8 teaspoon of salt and set aside. Pick the fresh and light green leaves/stems from the acacia plant. Wash and drain well. When the leaves are dry, add them
into the duck egg bowl and mix them in well. In a non-stick frying pan, add two tablespoons of vegetable oil and make sure the oil is spread around the pan evenly on a medium heat. When the oil is hot, beat the duck egg and su poke ywat and pour the mixture over the pan evenly. Move the pan around and make sure the egg mixture is spread out around the pan. Then, cover the lid and fry for 2-3 minutes until it is a golden, yellow colour. Lift carefully and turn over. Fry for another 3 minutes or until the omelette is cooked through. Cool down with the lid on and then cut into 2cm cubes. Saut the onions with the leftover oil in the pan. When the onions are caramalised, add chilli powder and tomatoes. Fry for a few more minutes until the tomatoes are dried. Add 1 cups of water, cover and simmer for 10 minutes with a lid. When the onions are dissolved, raise the heat again to medium and let the gravy boil. (If you need more water add another cup of water). Bring the omelette back to the pot and cook for 2 more minutes. Then serve with steamed rice.
PREPARATION Wash the dried chin saw ka thee and soak them in 1 cup of warm water. Then grill the fish skeletons and take the flakes out. Saut the garlic for a minute and then add the fish flakes. Pour the chin saw ka thee, its water and another 1 cups of water to boil. Let the soup boil for another 5 minutes and then garnish with the sliced green chillies. Salt for taste. TIPS FOR THE OMELETTE The omelette should be thick, 1cm in height, so it is best to use a smaller frying pan. To flip the omelette, use a thinner spatula and lift the edge of omelette along the pan slowly. Then move the spatula slowly towards the centre and transfer onto the plate upside down. Bring the plate to the edge of the pan and push the omelette back to the pan carefully. FOODIE QUOTE A gourmet is just a glutton with brains. Phillip H Haberman Jr NEXT WEEK Inspired by Cambodian cuisine prawns and peppercorns
PLA TOO FISH AND CHIN SAW KAR THEE (QUINCE) SOUR SOUP (SERVES 6)
3-4 pla too fish skeleton bones (after filleting the fish) 4-5 pieces dried chin saw kar thee 2 cloves garlic (crushed) teaspoon vegetable oil 2-3 green chillies Salt
Wine Review
Carpineto Dogajoolo Tosacano 2011
A soft dry red that is quaffable enough to be drunk on its own or with most foods. Lightbodied with hints of strawberries.
Deep yellow and full-bodied, this wine suggest it will taste Riesling. But a crisp finish that balances well with the initial sharpness sets it apart.
Score
7/10
K
Score
7/10
K
17,770
16,700
Tucking into a nasi lemak istemewa (K3700), I definitely felt the international flavours of Yangon. The coconut rice, dried anchovies and sambal and deep-fried chicken tasted like something Id eaten in Malaysia. The Kaya toast (K1100) a toasted sandwich with coconut jam and dollops of cold butter was something like Id tried in Australia. It felt like I had ordered a decadent snack, but the toast was quite light and not at all heavy. The coffee was also decent, coming out in a generous portion and cost just K2200 for a cappuccino. A regular filter coffee is priced at K1000. What I noticed the most about Ya Kun was the staff s commitment to hygiene. The quick-service style is efficient and the food (while most
likely calorie-loaded) was not at all oily. Care was taken in presentation and the bonus for this place is that they provide free Wi-Fi thats connected to the fibre-optic cable network.
R W ED IN E
W W HIT IN E E
Ya Kun
Ya Kun Family Caf, FMI Centre, Ground Floor, 380 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Yangon Ya Kun Coffee and Toast, Junction Square, 2nd Floor, between Pyay Road and Kyun Taw Street, Yangon Food: 7 Drink: 8 Service: 8 Atmosphere: 8 X-factor: 7 Value for money: 7 Total Score:
7.5/10
Joseph Charles
Pe Myint Oo
Yojiro Konuma
U Myit Tar
Soe Hein
Raymond
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Canmake restaurant opening
NAUM BWAI
hknuambawi@gmail.com
SWAPPING her heels for some sensible shoes, Socialite spent much of the week on her hand phone making plans as she dashed from one soiree to the next. She was off like a rocket starting with the PISM graduation ceremony at Sedona Hotel, followed by dinner at the launch of Hello Japanese food centre on September 18. Socialite bitterly kept her heels off as she dashed around four events the next day, which included the Realm Company opening ceremony at Kyauk Kone township and JJ Express bus lines 2nd anniversary celebrations at the Oriental House. What seemed like all of a sudden for Socialite, it was already September 21 and her calendar was going haywire. She again dashed off to the new restaurant opening of Canmake at Gabar Aye Gamhone Pwint, City Marts New Kitchen Idea demonstration, and attended the 27th Southeast Asia SEA Games theme song award ceremony at Sedona Hotel. She was exhausted toward the end of the week but managed to rouse up some energy and attend the Myanmar B2B Management Magazines 1st anniversary at Traders Hotel on September 22. All that done, she went home so she could chill on the sofa and choose the next pair of shoes for the following weeks events.
Ko Thaw Tar
May Than Nu
Pa Pa Win Khin
Melody
Ye Min Thu
Mikeal
Soe Hein
Wai Phyoe
NAY PYI TAW TO YANGON Flight FMI A2 FMI A2 FMI B2 FMI A2 FMI C2 Days 1,2,3,4,5 6 1,2,3,4,5 7 1,2,3,4,5 Dep 8:50 10:00 13:00 17:00 18:00 Arr 9:50 11:00 14:00 18:00 19:00
YANGON TO MANDALAY Flight W9 512 YH 917 YJ 891 YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 201 YH 909 K7 626 K7 226 YJ 201 YJ 211 YJ 143/W97143 W9 251 6T 401 YJ 761 W9 201 8M 6603 YJ 751/W9 7751 YJ 761 W9 251 K7 624 YJ 751/W9 7751 YJ 201 YJ 761 YJ 751/W9 7751 YJ 601/W9 76016 YH 729 YH 737 YH 737 YH 727 YH 729 YH 731 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 2,4 3 7 1,5 6 1,6,7 1,2,3 Daily Daily 2,4 Days 3 2,3,4 1,2,3,4,5,6 1,5,6,7 Daily 2,3,4,5,6,7 Daily 4 3 1,5 2,4 1,2 5,7 1,2,3 Daily 1 6 1,2,3 2,4,7 3,7 1 2 Daily 7 3 1,2,4 5 Dep 6:00 6:00 6:10 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 6:30 6:30 6:45 6:45 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:45 9:00 10:00 10:30 10:30 10:30 10:30 11:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 11:15 11:15 11:15 14:30 14:45 14:30 14:30 15:00 Arr 8:05 8:20 8:15 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 8:25 8:10 8:10 8:10 8:25 8:25 9:05 9:05 9:40 8:55 9:10 10:10 11:55 12:25 11:55 11:55 12:25 12:25 12:55 12:55 12:25 14:00 13:10 13:25 13:25 14:15 16:40 16:40 16:35 16:35 17:10
Domestic Airlines
Air Bagan Ltd. (W9) Air KBZ (K7)
Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Tel: 372977~80, 533030~39 (Airport), Fax: 372983
Tel : (Head Office) 501520, 525488, Fax: 525937. Airport: 533222~3, 09-73152853. Fax: 533223.
Yangon Airways(YH)
Tel: (+95-1) 383 100, 383 107, 700 264, Fax: 652 533.
Domestic
6T = Air Mandalay W9 = Air Bagan YJ = Asian Wings K7 = AIR KBZ YH = Yangon Airways FMI = FMI AIR Charter Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines
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International Airlines
Air Asia (FD)
Tel: 251 885, 251 886.
TORONTO
YANGON TO DON MUENG Flights Days Dep FD 2752 Daily 8:30 FD 2754 Daily 17:50 YANGON TO SINGAPORE Flights Days Dep MI 509 1,6 0:25 8M 231 Daily 8:00 Y5 233 Daily 10:10 SQ 997 Daily 10:25 8M 6232 Daily 11:30 3K 586 Daily 11:30 MI 517 Daily 16:40 YANGON TO KUALA LUMPUR Flights Days Dep 8M 501 1,3,6 7:50 AK 1427 Daily 8:30 MH 741 Daily 12:15 MH 743 Daily 15:45 Flights CA 906 YANGON TO BEIJING Days Dep 2,3,4,6,7 14:15
DON MUENG TO YANGON Flights Days Dep FD 2751 Daily 7:15 FD 2753 Daily 16:35 Flights SQ 998 3K 585 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 Y5 234 MI 520 Flights CA 905 SINGAPORE TO YANGON Days Dep Daily 7:55 Daily 9:10 Daily 9:10 Daily 13:25 Daily 14:20 Daily 15:35 5,7 22:10 BEIJING TO YANGON Days Dep 2,3,4,6,7 8:05
Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Tel : 666112, 655882. Tel : 253597~98, 254758. Fax: 248175
ELLEN PERLMAN
Tel: 255122, 255 265, Fax: 255119 Tel: + 95 1 -370836 up to 39 (ext : 810)
Dragonair (KA)
YANGON TO GAUNGZHOU Flights Days Dep 8M 711 4,7 8:40 CZ 3056 3,6 11:20 CZ 3056 1,5 17:40 Flights CI 7916 Flights MU 2012 MU 2032 CA 906 YANGON TO TAIPEI Days Dep 1,2,3,5,6 10:50 YANGON TO KUNMING Days Dep 1,3 12:20 2,4,5,6,7 14:40 2,3,4,6,7 14:15
KAULA LUMPUR TO YANGON Flights Days Dep AK 1426 Daily 6:55 MH 740 Daily 10:05 8M 502 1,3,6 12:50 MH742 Daily 13:30 GUANGZHOU TO YANGON Flights Days Dep CZ 3055 3,6 8:40 CZ 3055 1,5 14:45 8M 712 4,7 14:15 Flights CI 7915 Flights MU 2011 CA 905 MU 2031 TAIPEI TO YANGON Days Dep 1,2,3,5,6 7:00 KUNMING TO YANGON Days Dep 1,3 8:20 2,3,4,6,7 12:40 2,4,5,6,7 13:30
Silk Air(MI)
YANGON TO CHIANG MAI Flights Days Dep W9 9607 4,7 14:20 Flights VN 956 YANGON TO HANOI Days Dep 1,3,5,6,7 19:10
International
FD & AK = Air Asia TG = Thai Airways 8M = Myanmar Airways International Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines PG = Bangkok Airways MI = Silk Air VN = Vietnam Airline MH = Malaysia Airlines CZ = China Southern CI = China Airlines CA = Air China KA = Dragonair Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines IC = Indian Airlines Limited W9 = Air Bagan 3K = Jet Star AI = Air India QR = Qatar Airways KE = Korea Airlines NH = All Nippon Airways SQ = Singapore Airways DE = Condor Airlines MU=China Eastern Airlines BR = Eva Airlines DE = Condor AI = Air India
CHIANG MAI TO YANGON Flights Days Dep W9 9608 4,7 17:20 Flights VN 957 HANOI TO YANGON Days Dep 1,3,5,6,7 16:35
YANGON TO HO CHI MINH CITY Flights Days Dep Arr VN 942 2,4,7 14:25 17:10 Flights QR 619 YANGON TO DOHA Days Dep 1,4,5 8:15 Arr 11:15
ITH my toes jutting out beyond a ledge high atop the tallest structure in Toronto, I looked down on planes arriving at the nearby airport and the rooftops of the highest buildings in the city. I was tense, yet exhilarated. The day before, Id been sitting in a darkened ballroom contemplating this very moment and feeling woozy. Id read about the EdgeWalk, an urban adventure that takes you on a hands-free walk above the CN Towers revolving restaurant, 116 stories off the ground, and as a travel writer attending a travel conference, I thought that it would make a great story. But all I had to do was think about it and lightheadedness took over. Eighteen hours later, I was in a room at the base of the tower, pulling on a fluorescent orange jumpsuit and a neon yellow harness, having paid a pretty penny not to chicken out of the EdgeWalk. Once wed geared up, the six of us whod signed up for this madness were patted down for contraband. A bobby pin, an earring, a penny. Anything that could be a hazard to pedestrians below. So I was really going to do this. The indecision had lasted through the morning, as I walked to the tower from my hotel. Maybe thered be no spots left? Only six people are allowed up at a time. That would solve my dilemma. After a few more moments of hesitation, I booked it. At the base, my fellow adventurers and I were checked, quadruplechecked and finally approved. Then, heading off in our jumpsuits like astronauts to the launchpad, we followed Steven, our walk master, to the elevator.
We were each hooked up by two ropes to a thick metal rail above our heads that runs around the building. Heavy-duty locking carabiners connected to rings on our harnesses were doubly secured by a plastic strap, on the off chance that we might reach for the locking mechanism in a crazed moment. Off we went, out the door and into the sky, onto a steel-grate ledge that juts out around the structure. Peering down, I could see right through to the ground. Oh, its really high up, jeepers, Steven commented helpfully. A few seconds later, he added, Why dont you take a sneak peek over the edge to check out how high you are? So instead of staying safely in the middle of the ledge, I inched toward the outer edge. Steven instructed us on our first move: toes over Toronto. One at a time we were to walk up to the edge of the ledge and put our toes over it while holding onto the rope in front of us. After that, Steven walked us partway around the building, pointing out city landmarks and, in the far distance, Niagara Falls. The final move was the Titanic pose. This time I went first, leaning forward over the edge with my arms up in the air and the wind in my hair. I stood on my toes for extra drama and felt giddy. Awesome. Nice. Shes looking straight down, too, Steven laughed. When we were all finished, Steven told us that we had just repeated a Guinness World Record for the highest external walk on a building, set here in 2011. And I had just taken a challenge that no one had set for me and proved that I could do it. To whom? It doesnt matter. Bloomberg
HO CHI MINH CITY TO YANGON Flights Days Dep Arr VN 943 2,4,7 11:40 13:25 BANGKOK TO MANDALAY Flights Days Dep TG 781 2,3,5,7 7:25 Flights QR 618 Arr 8:50
YANGON TO PHNOM PENH Flights Days Dep Arr 8M 403 3,6 16:50 19:15 Flights 0Z 770 KE 472 YANGON TO SEOUL Days Dep Arr 4,7 0:35 9:10 Daily 23:35 08:05+1 Arr 06:00
YANGON TO HONG KONG Flights Days Dep KA 251 1,2,4,6 01:10 Flights NH 914 Flights AI 228
PHNOM PENH TO YANGON Flights Days Dep Arr 8M 404 3,6 20:15 21:40 Flights KE 471 0Z 769 Flights NH 913 SEOUL TO YANGON Days Dep Daily 18:40 3,6 19:50 TOKYO TO YANGON Days Dep 1,3,6 10:30 Arr 22:30 23:25 Arr 15:30 Arr 23:30 Arr 13:20
YANGON TO TOKYO Days Dep Arr 1,3,6 21:30 06:40+1 YANGON TO KOLKATA Days Dep 1,5 14:05 Arr 15:05 Arr 11:55
HONG KONG TO YANGON Flights Days Dep KA 250 1,3,5,7 21:45 Flights AI 227 KOLKATA TO YANGON Days Dep 1,5 10:35
MANDALAY TO DON MUENG Flights Days Dep Arr FD 2761 Daily 12:45 15:00
Canadas tallest building, the CN Tower, offers thrill-chasers a chance to walk 116 stories above the ground. Photo: Wiki Commons
WEEKLY PREDICTIONS
LEO | Jul 23 - Aug 22 You can maintain your sense of well-being and avoid taking other peoples problems personally. Dont play out an imaginary confrontation in your mind and dont be justified in your anger. Have patience when waiting in line and never listen to unfair criticism, but do the lions share of the work to become a good leader. Be ready for an emergency. You will have good fortune to be surrounded by relaxed, peaceful and loving people. VIRGO | Aug 23 - Sep 22 Compassion is a sympathetic feeling that you can develop with practice. Dont be hesitant to share your own kindness or generosity with another it will remind you of how deserving you are of kindness. Remember that nothing is more important than your own sense of happiness and inner peace and that of your loved ones. Learn a little more about being patient. LIBRA | Sep 23 - Oct 22 You are experiencing a struggle between the positive and the negative forces, or the forces of darkness and light, and you cannot afford to be slack. You should become more interested in understanding others and less in having other people understand you. Love will become nothing if neither person feels understood. Learn to stop interrupting in conversation and seek first to understand. SCORPIO | Oct 23 - Nov 21 Social battles will pull you away from your tranquil feeling. You will lose your stress-free life but golden experiences and knowledge will make your life great and comfortable according to your abilities and capabilities. Your spiritual inspiration, moral standards and social responsibility will allow you to imagine your love story in the most colourful process. SAGITTARIUS | Nov 22 - Dec 21 Your best friend is he who brings out the best that is within you, said Henry Ford. What your friendship is in social relationships is your framework for success. Try to discover what you have in common outside your job, and be available beyond business hours. Stand up for whats right, not just for whats popular. Say nothing about your emotional suffering but reveal your wishes to contribute something. CAPRICORN | Dec 22 - Jan 19 If you want to develop trust with others, you must be more than competent, you must also be credible and consistent, Winston Churchill said, Its the ability to foretell what will happen tomorrow, next month and next year and to explain afterward why it did not happen. Make sure that what you say is what you do, to make others know what you are capable of. Love is not an easy persuasion.
Miss Universe contestants take part in a traditional Kayin doeyein dance. Photo: Zarni Phyo
Miss Universe
LWIN MAR HTUN
lwinmarhtun.mcm@gmail.com
ISS Universe Myanmar 2013 contestants have visited an orphanage in Mon State where they performed traditional dances with the children and visited Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, before arranging to take the youngsters to visit Yangon. The 20 women travelled to the Seik Phy Taung Youth Development Centre in Kyaikhito City on September 23 and while they were there discovered the children at the orphanage had never visited Myanmars largest city. When we inquired we found out the orphans from the school
had never been to Yangon so we arranged to take them to the city and we brought them to the Shwedagon Pagoda and Yangon Zoological Garden, said Ma Thein Yu Wai, general manager of Miss Universe Myanmars sponsor, Hello Madam Media Group, which organised the trip in conjunction with the Htoo Foundation. During the womens visit to the orphanage in Mon State, the children performed a Kayin doeyein dance for the contestants who joined in. We learned Kayin doeyein dance last year and we practiced it again a week ago, said Ma Khin Win, one of the children from the school who took part in the dancing. This is the very first time that such beautiful girls visited our school. Im so happy because they danced with us and they were really friendly and sweet, She added, Im ready to perform this dance again, if they come back to our school.
The women brought food to give to the children and later took them to the Kyaiktiyo Pagoda and explained the history of the pagoda to them. I already love the children. When they performed for us I felt happiness and sadness at the same time. I can see in their eyes some of their sadness. But it makes me happy to play with them and give them as much strength as I can, said Emerald Nyein, one of the contestants. On September 24 the group brought about 40 of the children to Yangon for sightseeing. The following day the contestants went to the Yangon Peace Center and the Cancer Foundation to make donations. We will give marks for the contestants on [their participation] in the trip, said Ma Thein Yu Wai. The final Miss Universe Myanmar 2013 contest will be held on October 3 at the National Theatre in Yangon.
AUNG MYIN KYAW 4th Floor, 113, Thamain Bayan Road, Tarmwe township, Yangon. Tel: 09-731-35632, Email: williameaste@gmail.com
The Essentials
EMBASSIES Australia 88, Strand Road, Yangon. Tel : 251810, 251797, 251798, 251809, 246462, 246463, fax: 246159 Bangladesh 11-B, Than Lwin Road, Yangon. Tel: 515275, 526144, fax: 515273, email: bdootygn@ mptmail.net.mm Brazil 56, Pyay Road, 6th mile, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 507225, 507251, 507482. fax: 507483. email: Administ.yangon@ itamaraty.gov.br. Brunei 17, Kanbawza Avenue, Golden Velly (1), Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 566985, 503978, fax: 512854 email: bruneiemb@ bruneiemb.com.mm Cambodia 25 (3B/4B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 549609, 540964, fax: 541462, email: RECYANGON @ mptmail.net.mm China 1, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 221280, 221281, fax: 227019, 228319 Danmark, No.7, Pyi Thu St, Pyay Rd, 7 Miles, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 01 9669520 - 17, Fax 01- 9669516 Egypt 81, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 222886, 222887, email: egye mbyangon@ mptmail. net.mm France 102, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 212178, 212520, email: ambaf rance. rangoun@ diplomatie.fr Germany 9, Bogyoke Aung San Museum Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 548951, 548952, email: info@rangun. diplo.de India 545-547, Merchant St, Yangon. Tel: 391219, 388412, email: indiaembassy @ mptmail.net.mm Indonesia 100, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Rd, Yangon. Tel: 254465, 254469, 229750, fax: 254468, email: kukygn @ indonesia.com.mm Israel 15, Khabaung Street, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 515115, fax: 515116, email: info@ yangon.mfa.gov.il Italy 3, Inya Myaing Road, Golden Valley, Yangon. Tel: 527100, 527101, fax: 514565, email: ambyang. mail@ esteri.it Japan 100, Natmauk Rd, Yangon. Tel: 549644-8, 540399, 540400, 540411, 545988, fax: 549643 Embassy of the State of Kuwait Chatrium Hotel, Rm: 416, 418, 420, 422, 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe Tsp, Tel: 544500. North Korea 77C, Shin Saw Pu Rd, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 512642, 510205 South Korea 97 University Avenue, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 5271424, 515190, fax: 513286, email: myanmar@mofat. go.kr Lao A-1, Diplomatic Quarters, Tawwin Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 222482, fax: 227446, email: Laoembcab@ mptmail. net.mm Malaysia 82, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 220248, 220249, email: mwkyangon@ mptmail.net.mm Nepal 16, Natmauk Yeiktha, Yangon. Tel: 545880, 557168, fax: 549803, email: nepemb @mptmail.net.mm Norway, No.7, Pyi Thu St, Pyay Rd, 7 Miles, Mayangone Tsp,Yangon. Tel: 01 9669520 - 17 Fax 01- 9669516 Pakistan A-4, diplomatic Quarters, Pyay Rd, Yangon. Tel: 222881 (Chancery Exchange) fax: 221147, email: pakistan@ myanmar.com.mm Philippines 50, Sayasan Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 558149-151, fax: 558154, email: p.e. yangon@gmail.com Russian 38, Sagawa Road, Yangon. Tel: 241955, 254161, fax: 241953, email: rusinmyan@mptmail .net.mm Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia No.287/289, U Wisara Rd, Sanchaung Tsp. Tel : 01-536153, 516952, fax : 01-516951 Serbia No. 114-A, Inya Rd, P.O.Box No. 943, Yangon. Tel: 515282, 515283, email: serbemb @ yangon.net.mm Singapore 238, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 559001, email: singemb_ ygn@_ sgmfa. gov.sg Sri Lanka 34 Taw Win Road, Yangon. Tel: 222812, fax: 221509, email: slembassy. yangon@gmail.com The Embassy of Switzerland No 11, Kabaung Lane, 5 mile, Pyay Rd, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 534754, 512873, 507089. Fax: 534754, Ext: 110 Thailand 94 Pyay Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 226721, 226728, 226824 Turkish Embassy 19AB, Kan Yeik Thar St, Mayangone Tsp,Yangon. Tel : 662992, Fax : 661365 United Kingdom 80 Strand Rd, Yangon. Tel: 370867, 380322, 371852, 371853, 256438, fax: 370866 United States of America 110, University Avenue, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 536509, 535756, Fax: 650306 Vietnam Bldg-72, Thanlwin Rd, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 511305 email: vnemb myr@ cybertech.net.mm UNITED NATIONS ILO Liaison 1-A, Kanbae (Thitsar Rd), Yankin Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 01-566538, 566539 Fax : 01-566582 IOM 12th Flr, Traders Hotel, 223, Tel: 252560 ext. 5002 UNAIDS 137/1, Thaw Wun Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel : 534498, 504832 UNDCP 11-A, Malikha St, Mayangone tsp. tel: 666903, 664539. fax: 651334. UNDP 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tel: 542910-19. fax: 292739. UNFPA 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tsp. tel: 546029. UNHCR 287, Pyay Rd, Sanchaung tsp. tel: 524022, 524024. fax 524031. UNIAP Rm: 1202, 12 Fl, Traders Hotel.tel: 254852, 254853. UNIC 6, Natmauk St., Bahan, tel: 52910~19 UNICEF 14~15 Flr, Traders Hotel. P.O. Box 1435, Kyauktada. tel: 375527~32, fax: 375552 email: unicef. yangon@unicef. org, www.unicef.org/myanmar. UNODC 11-A, Malikha Rd., Ward 7, Mayangone. tel: 01-9666903, 9660556, 9660538, 9660398, 9664539, fax: 651334. email: fo.myanmar@unodc.org www.unodc.org./myanmar/ UNOPS Inya Lake Hotel, 3rd floor, 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 951657281~7. Fax: 657279. UNRC 6, Natmauk Rd, P.O. Box 650, TMWE tel: 542911~19, 292637 (Resident Coordinator), fax: 292739, 544531. WFP 3rd-flr, Inya Lake Hotel, 37, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 657011~6 (6-lines) Ext: 2000. WHO 12A Fl, Traders Hotel. tel:250583. ASEAN Coordinating Of. for the ASEAN Humanitarian Task Force, 79, Taw Win st, Dagon Tsp. Ph: 225258. FAO Myanma Agriculture Service Insein Rd, Insein. tel: 641672, 641673. fax: 641561.
General Listing
ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS
Hotel Yangon 91/93, 8th Mile Junction, Tel : 01-667708, 667688. Inya Lake Resort Hotel 37 Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 662866. fax: 665537. Golden Hill Towers 24-26, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 558556. ghtower@ mptmail.net.mm. Marina Residence 8, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 6506 51~4. fax: 650630. MiCasa Hotel Apartments 17, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp. tel: 650933. fax: 650960. Sakura Residence 9, Inya Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 525001. fax: 525002. The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residence 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp. tel 951-256355 (25 lines).
YANGON No. 277, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Corner of 38th Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 391070, 391071. Reservation@391070 (Ext) 1910, 106. Fax : (951) 391375. Email : hotelasiaplaza@gmail.com
Avenue 64 Hotel No. 64 (G), Kyitewine Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 09-8631392, 01 656913-9 Chatrium Hotel 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe. tel: 544500. fax: 544400.
No.7A, Wingabar Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : (951) 546313, 430245. 09-731-77781~4. Fax : (01) 546313. www.cloverhotel.asia. info@cloverhotel.asia Clover Hotel City Center No. 217, 32nd Street (Upper Block), Pabedan Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 377720, Fax : 377722 www.clovercitycenter.asia Clover Hotel City Center Plus No. 229, 32nd Street (Upper Block), Pabedan Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 377975, Fax : 377974
www.clovercitycenterplus.asia
Royal White Elephant Hotel No-11, Kan Street, Hlaing Tsp. Yangon, Myanmar. (+95-1) 500822, 503986. www.rwehotel.com MGM Hotel No (160), Warden Street, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. +95-1-212454~9. www. hotel-mgm.com Savoy Hotel 129, Damazedi Rd, Kamayut tsp. tel: 526289, 526298, Sweet Hotel 73, Damazedi Road, San Chaung Tsp, Ph: 539152 Sedona Hotel Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin. tel: 666900. Strand Hotel 92 Strand Rd. tel: 243377. fax: 289880. Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. Thamada Hotel 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon. Tel: 243639, 243640. Traders Hotel 223 Sule Pagoda Rd. tel: 242828. fax: 242838. Winner Inn 42, Than Lwin Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 503734, 524387. email: reservation@winner innmyanmar.com Yuzana Hotel 130, Shwegondaing Rd, Bahan Tsp, tel : 01-549600 Yuzana Garden Hotel 44, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp, tel : 01-248944
Reservation Office (Yangon) No-123, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Dagon Tsp Tel : 01-255-819~838 Hotel Ayeyarwady (National Landmark, Zeyar Thiri Tsp, Nay Pyi Taw) Tel : 067-421-903, 09-4920-5016 E-Mail : reservation@ maxhotelsgroup.com
Confort Inn 4, Shweli Rd, Bet: Inya Rd & U Wisara Rd, Kamaryut, tel: 525781, 526872
Reservation Office (Yangon) 123, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Dagon Township Tel : 951- 255 819~838 Royal Kumudra Hotel, (Nay Pyi Taw) Tel : 067- 414 177, 067- 4141 88 E-Mail: reservation@ maxhotelsgroup.com
AIR CONDITION
Emergency Numbers
Ambulance tel: 295133. Fire tel: 191, 252011, 252022. Police emergency tel: 199. Police headquarters tel: 282541, 284764. Red Cross tel:682600, 682368 Traffic Control Branch tel:298651 Department of Post & Telecommunication tel: 591384, 591387. Immigration tel: 286434. Ministry of Education tel:545500m 562390 Ministry of Sports tel: 370604, 370605 Ministry of Communications tel: 067-407037. Myanma Post & Telecommunication (MPT) tel: 067407007. Myanma Post & Tele-communication (Accountant Dept) tel: 254563, 370768. Ministry of Foreign Affairs tel: 067-412009, 067-412344. Ministry of Health tel: 067-411358-9. Yangon City Development Committee tel: 248112. HOSPITALS Central Womens Hospital tel: 221013, 222811. Children Hospital tel: 221421, 222807 Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital tel: 543888. Naypyitaw Hospital (emergency) tel: 420096. Workers Hospital tel: 554444, 554455, 554811. Yangon Children Hospital tel: 222807, 222808, 222809. Yangon General Hospital (East) tel: 292835, 292836, 292837. Yangon General Hospital (New) tel: 384493, 384494, 384495, 379109. Yangon General Hospital (West) tel: 222860, 222861, 220416. Yangon General Hospital (YGH) tel: 256112, 256123, 281443, 256131. ELECTRICITY Power Station tel:414235 POST OFFICE General Post Office 39, Bo Aung Kyaw St. (near British Council Library). tel: 285499. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Yangon International Airport tel: 662811. YANGON PORT Shipping (Coastal vessels) tel: 382722 RAILWAYS Railways information tel: 274027, 202175-8.
No. (356/366), Kyaikkasan Rd, Tamwe Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Ph: 542826, Fax: 545650 Email: reservation@ edenpalacehotel.com
M-22, Shwe Htee Housing, Thamine Station St., Near the Bayint Naung Point, Mayangone Tsp., Yangon Tel : 522763, 522744, 667557. Fax : (95-1) 652174 E-mail : grandpalace@ myanmar.com.mm
The First Air conditioning systems designed to keep you fresh all day Zeya & Associates Co., Ltd. No.437 (A), Pyay Road, Kamayut. P., O 11041 Yangon, Tel: +(95-1) 502016-18, Mandalay- Tel: 02-60933. Nay Pyi Taw- Tel: 067-420778, E-mail : sales.ac@freshaircon. com. URL: http://www. freshaircon.com
BARS
50th Street 9/13, 50th street-lower, Botataung Tsp. Tel-397160.
No. 12, Pho Sein Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon Tel : (95-1) 209299, 209300, 209343, 209345, 209346 Fax : (95-1) 209344 E-mail : greenhill@ myanmar.com.mm
HAPPY HOMES
REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Strand Bar 92, Strand Rd, Yangon, Myanmar. tel: 243377.fax: 243393, sales@thestrand.com.mm www.ghmhotels.com
Fully maintained operating leases (self drive) NEW Left Hand Drive Pickup Trucks Commercials Trucks Refrig. Trucks www.fleet24seven.com
MYANMAR EXECUTIVE LIMOUSINE SERVICE
Cooper Valves
Sein Shwe Tailor, 797 (003-A), Bogyoke Aung San Rd, MAC Tower 2, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon, Ph: 01-225310, 212943~4 Ext: 146, 147, E-mail: uthetlwin@gmail.com
ENTERTAINMENT
Exotic Alloys for Severe Service, Myanmar Sales Representative mlwin@coopervalves.com www.coopervalves.com
Advertising
WE STARTED THE ADVERTISING INDUSTRY IN MYANMAR SINCE 1991
No. 52, Royal Yaw Min Gyi Condo, Room F, Yaw Min Gyi Rd, Dagon Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 09-425-307-717
Foam Spray Insulation No-410, Ground Fl,Lower Pazuntaung Rd, Pazun taung Tsp, Yangon.Telefax : 01-203743, 09-5007681. Hot Line-09-730-30825.
HOT LINE: 959 - 402 510 003 First Class VIP Limousine Car Rental. Professional English Speaking Drivers. Full Insurance for your Safety and comfortable journey Call us Now for your best choice www.mmels.com
M a r k e t i n g & c o mm u n i c a t i o n s
A d v e r t i s i n g
SAIL Marketing & Communications Suite 403, Danathiha Center 790, Corner of Bogyoke Rd & Wadan Rd, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 211870, 224820, 2301195. Email: admin@ advertising-myanmar.com www.advertising-myanmar. com
Spa Paragon Condo B#Rm-106, Shwe Hinthar Condo, Corner of Pyay Rd & Shwe Hinthar St, 6Mile, Yangon. Tel: 01-507344 Ext: 112, 09-680-8488, 09-526-1642.
Construction
Dance Club & Bar No.94, Ground Floor, Bogalay Zay Street, Botataung Tsp, Yangon.Tel: 392625, 09-500-3591 Email : danceclub. hola@gmail.com
(Except Sunday)
Worlds leader in Kitchen Hoods & Hobs Same as Ariston Water Heater. Tel: 251033, 379671, 256622, 647813
24 Hour International Medical Centre @ Victoria Hospital No. 68, Tawwin Rd, 9 Mile, Mayangon Township, Yangon, Myanmar Tel: + 951 651 238, + 959 495 85 955 Fax: + 959 651 398 24/7 on duty doctor: + 959 492 18 410 Website: www.leo.com.mm One Stop Solution for Quality Health Care
BOOK STORES
coffee machine
Zamil Steel No-5, Pyay Road, 7 miles, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (95-1) 652502~04. Fax: (95-1) 650306. Email: zamilsteel@ zamilsteel.com.mm MKT Construction 111, 42nd St, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel : 01-245786, 382423, 398191
Engineering
Yangon : A-3, Aung San Stadium (North East Wing), Mingalartaungnyunt Tsp. Tel : 245543, 09-73903736, 09-73037772. Mandalay : No.(4) 73rd St, Btw 30th & 31st St, Chan Aye Thar Zan Tsp. Tel : 096803505, 09-449004631.
Marina Residence, Yangon Ph: 650651~4, Ext: 109 Beauty Plan, Corner of 77th St & 31st St, Mandalay Ph: 02 72506
150 Dhamazedi Rd., Bahan T/S, Yangon. Tel: 536306, 537805. Room 308, 3rd Flr., Junction Center (Maw Tin), Lanmadaw T/S, Yangon. Tel: 218155, Ext. 1308. 15(B), Departure Lounge, Yangon Intl Airport. 45B, Corner of 26th & 68th Sts., Mandalay. Tel: (02) 66197. Email: yangon@monumentbooks.com MYANMARBOOKCENTRE Nandawun Compound, No. 55, Baho Road, Corner of Baho Road and Ahlone Road, (near Eugenia Restaurant), Ahlone Township. tel: 212 409, 221 271. 214708 fax: 524580. email:info@ myanmarbook.com
illy, Francis Francis, VBM, Brasilia, Rossi, De Longhi Nwe Ta Pin Trading Co., Ltd. Shop C, Building 459 B New University Avenue 01- 555-879, 09-4210-81705 nwetapintrading@gmail.com
One-stop Solution for Sub-station, M&E Work Design, Supply and Install (Hotel, High Rise Building Factory) 193/197, Shu Khin Thar Street, North Okkalapa Industrial Zone, Yangon. Tel: 951-691843~5, 9519690297, Fax: 951-691700 Email: supermega97@ gmail.com. www.supermega-engg.com
No. (68), Tawwin Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 9 666141 Fax : (951) 9 666135 Email : info@witoriyahospital.com Website : www.witoriyahosptial.com
communication
NS BlueScope Pte Ltd Diamond Condo Bldg A, Rm 301, Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 95 11221343 95 9448018719 email : khin.thu@ bluescopesteel.com www.bluescopesteel.com
Home Furnishing
La Source Beauty Spa (Ygn) 80-A, Inya Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 512380, 511252 La Source Beauty Spa (Mdy) No. 13/13, Mya Sandar St, Between 26 x 27 & 62 & 63 St, Chanaye Tharzan Tsp, In ning Mandalay. Ope ugust A Tel : 09-4440-24496. La Source Beauty Spa Sedona Hotel, Room (1004) Tel : 666 900 Ext : (7167) LS Saloon Junction Square, 3rd Floor. Tel : 95-1-527242, Ext : 4001 www.lasourcebeautyspa.com
n oo !! ns ns Mo otio m o Pr
CONSULTING
International Calling Card No.004, Building (B), Ground Floor, Yuzana St, Highway Complex Housing, Kamayut Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 01-230-4379, 09-731-74871~2 Email : info@vmg.com mm, www.vmgtelecoms.com, www.ytalk.com.mm
FITNESS CENTRE
Ruby & Rare Gems of Myanamar No. 527, New University Ave., Bahan Tsp. Yangon.
Duty free
Balance Fitnesss No 64 (G), Kyitewine Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township. Yangon 01-656916, 09 8631392 Email - info@ balancefitnessyangon.com
sales@manawmaya.com.mm www.manawmayagems.com
GENERATORS
Bldg-D, Rm (G-12), Pearl Condo, Ground Flr, Kabaraye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 557448. Ext 814, 09-730-98872.
co working space
Myanmar Research | Consulting | Technology
Shwe Hinthar B 307, 6 1/2 Miles, Pyay Rd., Yangon. Tel: +95 (0)1 654 730 info@thuraswiss.com www.thuraswiss.com
Duty Free Shops Yangon International Airport, Arrival/Departure Tel: 533030 (Ext: 206/155) Office: 17, 2nd street, Hlaing Yadanarmon Housing, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 500143, 500144, 500145.
Life Fitness Bldg A1, Rm No. 001, Shwekabar Housing, Mindhamma Rd, Mayangone Tsp. Yangon. Ph: 01-656511, Fax: 01-656522, Hot line: 0973194684, natraysports@gmail.com
No. 589-592, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Yangon-Pathein highway Road. Hlaing Tharyar tsp. Tel: 951645178-182, 685199, Fax: 951-645211, 545278. e-mail: mkt-mti@ winstrategic.com.mm
HEALTH SERVICES
No. 20, Ground Floor, Pearl Street, Golden Valley Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel : 09-509 7057, 01220881, 549478 (Ext : 103) Email : realfitnessmyanmar @gmail.com
www.realfitnessmyanmar.com
European Quality & Designs Indoor/ Outdoor Furniture, Hotel Furniture & All kinds of woodworks No. 422, FJVC Centre, Ground Floor, Room No. 4, Strand Road, Botahtaung Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 01-202063-4, 09 509-1673 E-mail: contact@ smartdesignstrading.com www.royalbotania.com, www.alexander-rose.co.uk
98(A), Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 553783, 549152, 09-732-16940, S.B. FURNITURE 09-730-56079. Fax: 542979 Email: asiapacific. myanmar@gmail.com.
S.B. FURNITURE
FLORAL SERVICES
No-001-002, Dagon Tower, Ground Flr, Cor of Kabaraye Pagoda Rd & Shwe Gon Dine Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 544480, 09-730-98872.
FloralService&GiftShop No. 449, New University Avenue, Bahan Tsp. YGN. Tel: 541217, 559011, 09-860-2292. Market Place By City Mart Tel: 523840~43, 523845~46, Ext: 205. Junction Nay Pyi Taw Tel: 067-421617~18 422012~15, Ext: 235. Res: 067-414813, 09-49209039. Email : eternal@ mptmail.net.mm
INSURANCE
One Stop ENT Center No. (68), Tawwin Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 9 666141 Fax : (951) 9 666135 Email : info@witoriyahospital.com Website : www.witoriyahosptial.com
RISK & INSURANCE SOLUTIONS Tel: (09) 40 15 300 73 robert.b@poe-ma.com 24 hours Laboratory & X-ray No. (68), Tawwin Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 9 666141 Fax : (951) 9 666135
Floral Service & Gift Centre 102(A), Dhamazaydi Rd, Yangon.tel: 500142 Summit Parkview Hotel, tel: 211888, 211966 ext. 173 fax: 535376.email: sandy@ sandymyanmar.com.mm.
LEGAL SERVICE
U Min Sein, BSc, RA, CPA.,RL Advocate of the Supreme Court 83/14 Pansodan St, Yangon. tel: 253 273. uminsein@mptmail.net.mm
SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 6, 2013 THE MYANMAR TIMES MARINE COMMUNICATION & NAVIGATION
Road to Mandalay Myanmar Hotels & Cruises Ltd. Governors Residence 39C, Taw Win Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (951) 229860 fax: (951) 217361. email: RTMYGN@mptmail.net.mm www.orient-express.com INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI MYANMAR (Pre-K, Primary) 55 (B) Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon, Tel: 01-546097, 546761. imm.myn@gmail.com City Mart (Myaynigone Branch) tel: 510697. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Zawana Branch) tel:564532. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Shwe Mya Yar) tel: 294063. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Chinatown Point) tel: 215560~63. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Junction Maw Tin) tel: 218159. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Marketplace) tel: 523840~43. City Mart (78th Brahch-Mandalay) tel: 02-71467~9. IKON Mart No.332, Pyay Rd, San Chaung. Tel: 535-783, 527705, 501429. Email: sales-ikon@ myanmar.com.mm
Top Marine Show Room No-385, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 01-202782, 09-851-5597
Schenker (Thai) Ltd. Yangon 59 A, U Lun Maung Street. 7 Mile Pyay Road, MYGN. tel: 667686, 666646.fax: 651250. email: sche nker@mptmail.net.mm.
OFFICE FURNITURE
REAL ESTATE
Kohaku Japanese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6231
The Emporia Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp. Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6294
SERVICE OFFICE
Open Daily (9am to 6pm) No. 797, MAC Tower II, Rm -4, Ground Flr, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Lamadaw Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (951) 212944 Ext: 303 sales.centuremyanmar@ gmail.com www.centure.in.th
Aye Yeik Tha Real Estate Mobile: 09-518 8320, 09-507 4096.
Bo Sun Pat Tower, Bldg 608, Rm 6(B), Cor of Merchant Rd & Bo Sun Pat St, PBDN Tsp. Tel: 377263, 250582, 250032, 09-511-7876, 09-862-4563.
RESTAURANTS
22, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel 541997. email: leplanteur@ mptmail.net.mm. http://leplanteur.net
1. WASABI:No.20-B, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp,(Near MiCasa), Tel; 09-4250-20667, 09-503-9139 Myaynigone (City Mart) Yankin Center (City Mart) UnionBarAndGrill 42 Strand Road, Botahtaung, Yangon. Tel: 95 9420 180 214, 95 9420 101 854 www.unionyangon.com, info@unionyangon.com www.facebook.com/ UnionBarAndGrill
Tel : 01-4413410
Real Estate Agent Agent fees is unnecessary Tel : 09 2050107, 09 448026156 robinsawnaing@gmail.com
Good taste & resonable price @Thamada Hotel Tel: 01-243047, 243639-41 Ext: 32
No. (6), Lane 2 Botahtaung Pagoda St, Yangon. 01-9010003, 291897. info@venturaoffice.com, www.venturaoffice.com
G-01, City Mart (Myay Ni Gone Center). Tel: 01-508467-70 Ext: 106
TRAVEL AGENTS
Shan Yoma Tours Co.,Ltd www.exploremyanmar.com
WATER SOLUTION
Company Limited
Aekar
G-05, Marketplace by City Mart. Tel: 01-523840 Ext: 105 No. 5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone T/S, Yangon. Tel : 01-660 612, 011 22 1014, 09 50 89 441 Email : lalchimiste. restaurant@gmail.com
Water Treatement Solution Block (A), Room (G-12), Pearl Condo, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. Hot Line : 09-4500-59000
Asian Trails Tour Ltd 73 Pyay Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 211212, 223262. fax: 211670. email: res@ asiantrails.com.mm
WATER TANK
For House-Seekers Bld-A2, Gr-Fl, Shwe Gabar Housing, Mindama Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. email: eko-nr@ myanmar.com.mm Ph: 652391, 09-73108896
Monsoon Restaurant & Bar 85/87, Thein Byu Road, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 295224, 09-501 5653. No.430(A), Corner of Dhamazedi Rd & Golden Valley Rd, Building(2) Market Place (City Mart), Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 01-523840(Ext-309), 09-73208079. Ocean Center (North Point), Ground Floor, Tel : 09-731-83900 01-8600056 Quality Chinese Dishes with Resonable Price @Marketplace by City Mart. Tel: 01-523840 Ext.109 Delicious Hong Kong Style Food Restaurant G-09, City Mart (Myay Ni Gone Center). Tel: 01-508467-70 Ext: 114
PE WATER TANK
Tel : 01-684734, 685823, 09-7307-6589, 4500-48469. theone@yangon.net.mm Car Rental with English Speaking Driver. (Safety and Professional Services). Tel : +95 9 2050107 robinsawnaing@gmail.com
WATER TREATMENT
REMOVALISTS
PAINT
Worlds No.1 Paints & Coatings Company Relocation Specialist Rm 504, M.M.G Tower, #44/56, Kannar Rd, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 250290, 252313. Mail : info@asiantigersmyanmar.com
No. 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan T/S, Yangon. Tel : 01-380 398, 01-256 355 (Ext : 3027) Email : zawgyihouse@ myanmar.com.mm
SUPERMARKETS
Capital Hyper Mart 14(E), Min Nandar Road, Dawbon Tsp. Ph: 553136. City Mart (Aung San Branch) tel: 253022, 294765. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (47th St Branch) tel: 200026, 298746. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Junction 8 Branch) tel: 650778. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (FMI City Branch) tel: 682323. City Mart (Yankin Center Branch) tel: 400284. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm)
Commercial scale water treatment (Since 1997) Tel: 01-218437~38. H/P: 09-5161431, 09-43126571. 39-B, Thazin Lane, Ahlone.
SCHOOLS
WATER HEATERS
Sole Distributor For the Union of Myanmar Since 1995 Myanmar Golden Rock International Co.,Ltd. #06-01, Bldg (8), Myanmar ICT Park, University Hlaing Campus, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 654810~17.
Crown Worldwide Movers Ltd 790, Rm 702, 7th Flr Danathiha Centre, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Lanmadaw. Tel: 223288, 210 670, 227650. ext: 702. Fax: 229212. email: crown worldwide@mptmail.net.mm
Heaven Pizza 38/40, Bo Yar Nyunt St. Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, Dagon Township. Tel: 09-855-1383
Horizon Intl School 25, Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, tel : 541085, 551795, 551796, 450396~7. fax : 543926, email : contact@horizonmyanmar. com, www.horizon.com
The Global leader in Water Heaters A/1, Aung San Stadium East Wing, Upper Pansodan Road. Tel: 01-256705, 399464, 394409, 647812.
TOP MARINE PAINT No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 09-851-5202
PLEASURE CRUISES
Legendary Myanmar Intl Shipping & Logistics Co., Ltd. No-9, Rm (A-4), 3rd Flr, Kyaung St, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 516827, 523653, 516795. Mobile. 09-512-3049. Email: legandarymyr@ mptmail.net .mm www.LMSL-shipping.com
World famous Kobe Beef Near Thuka Kabar Hospital on Pyay Rd, Marlar st, Hlaing Tsp. Tel: +95-1-535072
Indian Fine Dining & Bar Bldg No. 12, Yangon Intl Compound, Ahlone Road. Tel: 01-2302069, 09-43185008, 09-731-60662. sales@corrianderleaf.com
Moby Dick Tours Co., Ltd. Islands Safari in the Mergui Archipelago 5 Days, 7 Days, 9 Days Trips Tel: 95 1 202063, 202064 E-mail: info@islandsafari mergui.com. Website: www. islandsafarimergui.com
Enchanting and Romantic, a Bliss on the Lake 62 D, U Tun Nyein Road, Mayangon Tsp, Yangon Tel. 01 665 516, 660976 Mob. 09-730-30755 operayangon@gmail.com www.operayangon.com
The Ritz Exclusive Lounge Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Ground Floor, Tel: 544500 Ext 6243, 6244
Yangon International School Fully Accredited K-12 International Curriculum with ESL support No.117,Thumingalar Housing, Thingangyun Township, Yangon. Tel: 578171, 573149 www.yismyanmar.net Yangon International School New Early Childhood Center Pan Hlaing Golf Estate Housing & U Tun Nyo Street, Hlaing Thar Yar Township, Yangon. Tel: 687701, 687702
Made in Japan Same as Rinnai Gas Cooker and Cooker Hood Showroom Address
Water Heater
SANITERY WARE
Bath Room Accessories 79-B3/B3, East Shwe Gone Dine, Near SSC Womens Center, Bahan. Tel : 01-401083, 0973011100, 09-73056736 Email : grohe.myanmar@ gmail.com
Get your Visa online for Business and Tourist No need to come to Embassy. #165. 35th Street, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon. Tel: +951 381200, 204020 travel.evisa@gmail.com
FREE
General
Education
children. Let's join us Now! Contact: 09-421037619. IGCSE : For those who are going to take Cambridge IGCSE coming October/ November will be tutored and trained by a professional straight A*s holder with twelve years of teaching experience & an international school graduate. Hp: 09-5139298 MATHEMATICS : If your child (Grade 9 to 10 from YIS , ISM , ISY & Yangon Academy) is difficult to learn in Algebra 1, 2 & Geometry, pls contact : Daw Naing Naing Aung, B.Com (Q) No. (6), Thuketa St, Baukhtaw, Yankin. Ph : 544594, 09-500-4993. SPECIAL for Maths : For Int'l School - Grade IX, X, XI & XII, Geometry, Algebra I & II, Calculus. Tr.Kaung Myat : BE(PE) Ph-09-731-42020. OIEC (LMD) IGCSE results: Eng 90, Maths 92, Pure Maths 92, Chem 91, Phy 93 Hp:09513-9298 IGCSE Foreign & Local Teacher IGCSE/GCE 'O' (all subjects), BCA, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, Maths Courses, English Courses, Grammar. Ph:09-513-9298. www. facebook.com/ superstarigcse IGCSE, Secondary 2,3,4 Physics, Mathematics B & Pure Mathematics Practice with 20 years old questions. Allow individual or section. Only 5 students for one sectin. Near Heldan Sein Gay Har. Ph: 09-450025213, 524617. OIEC LMD Students attend OIEC only and passed IGCSE/GCE O Exam with all subjects As including A* (all distinctions) at one sitting. Sec 2, 3 & 4 (grade 8, 9 & 10) students also attend IGCSE at only OIEC for one year and passed the exam with all distinctions. Parents/ guardians who enroll their children at OIEC for IGCSE course can come and see the results of past IGCSE/GCE O results. Do you want your child to be one of them? Hp: 09-732-55281 GUIDE for 2nd M.B., B.S Classes 09-517-3808.
BY FAX : 01-254158 BY EMAIL : classified@myanmartimes.com.mm, advertising@myanmartimes.com.mm BY MAIL : 379/383, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.
Property
am to 10:00 pm. Junction Square Shopping Center and City Mart@ Thamine Junction, Yangon Facebook.com/ NeoCoffeeandFood AMERICAN IDOL (cosmetics) : Now move to Sea Green Tower: 313/323, 8 Flr, 9-C, Corner of Mahabandoola Rd & Bo Aung Kyaw St. Ph: 01-379-828, 09-5400411.
Expert Services
REAL ESTATE AGENT If you're an expatriate needing to find an apartment or house in Yangon, Min Thu can help. He has experience & is very reliable. Call Min Thu on 09-731-38659 or email : thecleverson@ gmail.com AUNG Professional Translation Professional Translation from Myanmar to English and English to Myanmar. For Legal translation, Technological, Diplo matic, Contract, Advertis ing, Movie, Literature, etc. With various services on paper, electronic file, recording & other relevant matters, both regular & express with expert service. 139, 2nd Flr, Bargayar Rd, Sangyoung, Yangon. Ph: 09-732-11907, aung. translation@gmail.com INTERNET Advertising Do you advertise in TV or billboards? Facebook has over 1,000,000,000 users worldwide everyday and 8,000,000 users in Myanmar. We provide Internet advertising services such as advertising in facebook, Google, YouTube, YAHOO!, etc. If you are interested in advertising locally or internationally, pls contact 09-732-55281 MOBILE Container office, Mobile Clinic, Garments on Hanger GOH for Multipack Engineering Services Ltd : (420/422), Rm 301, 3rd Flr, Corner of Strand Rd & Botahtaung Market St, Botahtaung, Tel : 397-974, 299-511, 09- 504- 2810, 09-73021041.
TEACHERS who have got Teaching experience in Singapore, Int'l School (primary & seconday levels) AEIS, PSLE, GCSE, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, English-Myamar Speaking Class for company, Sayar Bryan, (ME) 09-4200-7 0692. "SCHOLAR Teaching Organization" founded with ME,BE & Master Degree holder with 12 years experience in teaching field. Role and Responsibility: Making the students develop problem solving skills, critical thinking skills and I.Q & E.Q enriching skills, Int'l School (ILBC, Total, MISY, ISY, PISM, Horizon, ISM, network, M, MIS, MLA, ES4E, DSY RV). All grades, All Subjects ..... Singapore MOE Exams (AEIS, S-AEIS, IGCSE, IELTS, TOFEL..Tr.Daniel Caulin : 09-215-0075. Tr.Bryan :09-4200-70692. GIVE your child the best possible start to life at International Montessori Myanmar (English Education Center), Accredited by IMC Bangkok (Since 1991), Our Montessori curriculum includes: Practical Life Exercises, Sensorial Training. Language Development, Mathematics, Cultural Studies, Botany & Zoology, History, Creative Art, Music and Movement, Cooking, Physical Development, Social & Emotional Development, Learning through play, 55(B), Po Sein Rd, Bahan, Tel: 546097, 546761, Email: imm.myn@gmail.com EXPERIENCE SAT English teacher, who can come to home, needed for two International school students. Please contact 09-501-4443, Between 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. IGCSE, Secondary 3, 4 Physics, Maths B, Pure Maths Practice with 15 years old questin. Ph: 09-4500-23213. STUDY HOME for General English (4 skills) Language from Basic.Who want to study home in private time and need study guide only English Grammar for
For Rent
NEW BELTA Saloon Car (Model:2008) with English speaking driver who own his car No. 6F/8728 by monthly payment price 5.5 lakhs Kyats only. Contact : Ms Mya Mya Aung : 09-4200-48040, 09-4015-43732.
LENOVO Yogo 13" Intel Core i5 Ram 4GB S.S.D 128GB Multi Touch Screen (10 Month Warranty Card) Price: 780000. Ph : 09-501-6694 ASUS A42J Intel Core i7 Ram 4GB H.D.D 500GB Garaphic 2GB. Price : 435000. Ph : 09-501-6694 99% NEW SAMSUNG Series 5 Ultra Book Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D + SSD Display 13.3 1 Year 6 Month Int'l Warranty. Price : 650000. Ph : 094200-50651. EPSON Slip Printer (include all accessories and cable) Model_ TMU220D. Color- Black. Price:145,000 Ks. 2ply roll paper 20 packs. Ph: 09-503-6050. A REDLINK Wimax CPE to sell with $350,000 kyats. The Wimax Plan is Gold Plus and you can upgrade it later on. Pls contact : 09-503-4797. 99% NEW SAMSUNG Series 5 Ultra Book Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D + SSD Display 13.3 1 Year 6 Month Int'l Warranty . Price : 650000. Ph : 094200-50651. SAMSUNG Galaxy S3 White Price : 305000. Ph : 09-501-6694 OLD. POSTAGE Stamps from about (140)countries with over (4000) stamps. Ph: 09-4253-19444 MSI BOARD P4 Dual Core, CPU 3.2 ghz Ram 2 Gb, Hdd 500 GB VGA 512 MB, DVD RW (ASUS) Viewsonic 19 ', UPS Green Tech 650 W. Ph: 09-4211-11780. AUDI A 6, Quattro, 2005, 3, 2 L Gasoline Engine, AWD, Ph: 09-507-3837. BRAND NEW IPAD 2 16GB (Packing) 1 Year Full Apple Warranty. Price: 300000. Ph : 094005-32795. IPHONE 4S 16GB white official unlock Lated Full Paid HD Game/App installed 99% Like new original accessories and packing box (350000 ks) Ph:09-4224-44494.
Language
BZM English language center. English speaking, listening & grammar class. Only 6 students for one section. Students comfortably can learn in the cozy atmosphere classroom with air-conditioning, sophisticated classroom facilities & lecture chairs. 3 to 5 pm, except saturday. 3 days a week for one section. Also allow oneto - one (home tuition). Teacher Zin Mar Myint (got certificate from British council & TKT certificate from cambridge) Ph:094302-6789. Shwe ohn pin villa (new) , Yanshin Rd, Yankin. MCP English Classes (taught by native speakers) Fees: 25000 ks. Duration: 10 weeks per level. Add: 277, BPI Rd, Insein Ph:01646474,646397, 09400534734. email: mcp. lifeskill@gmail.com. (Enroll now for October) TO FOREIGNERS : If you want to learn Myanmar Language at your home. Contact : 09-730-85929. THE GREAT New for Foreigners : We are offering easiest way to learn Myanmar Language at your home.If you would like to learn it,join us Now! we are offering fair fees for you! Contact: 09 -421037619. MYANMAR Language Guide (For Embassy family and others) When you stay in Myanmar, do you want to ask to your children to learn Myanmar language? Call: 09-514-6505 (Christine)
Training
MANAGING Your Emotions Program : 1. Theories of Emotion. 2. Emotional Development. 3. Arousal and Emotion. 4. Emotions and Moods. 5. Love, Passion & Positive Emotions. 6. Emotions as Foundations for Social Behavior. 7. Emotional & Relational Intelligence (ERQ) 8. Controlling Emotions. Duration : 8-Week. Day : Friday & Saturday (6:30-8:00 pm). Fees : 80,000 Ks. Start Date : September 27, 2013. Add : 8, 6th Flr (Right), Chan Thar St, Sanchaung. Ph : 09-5370230, 09-730-02705.
HousingforRent
BAHAN,(1).Near Sedona hotel, 1100 Sqft, 1 MR, 2SR, fully furnish, USD 800. (2).Near Japan Embassy , 1100 Sqft, 1 MR, 2 SR, fully furnish, USD 1600. (3).Near Park Royal hotel, 1200 Sqft, 1 MR, fully furnish, USD 2500.(4).New University avenue Rd, 1500 Sqft, 1 MR, 2 SR, fully furnish, USD 1600. (5).Near Kandawgyi Lake, 20' x 80', 2MR, 1 SR, fully furnish, USD 2500. (6). Golden velly, 2500 Sqft, 2RC, 1 MR, 2 SR, USD 2500. Ph : 09-49214276. MAYANGONE, Double Slab, 4th Flr :131, Cheery St, Thamine, 23' x 48', MBR 1, Single Room 1, Dinning Room. Air Con, Refrigenerator, TV. Ph: 09-429-333333, 01680699, 687376 40 X 60, 2 RC, Typical classic Myanmar style with 2 MB, 2 BR, teak parquet floor, fully furnished with teak furniture, Newly installed wiring & voltage regulator. Bathrooms have heaters. No need to pay agent fee, Ks. 20 lakhs per month, 09 430 83781. BAHAN, (1)University Avenue Condo - 1900 sqft fully furnished (2) University Avenue Condo - 1350 sqft - fully furnished (3)University Avenue Condo - 1200 sqft - fully funished (4) Shwe Ohn Pin Housing - 900 Sqft - fully furnished (5)Mya Thida Housing 2 Storey house (6)Pyin Nya Waddy Condo 1650 sqft. fully furnished. Ph: 09-732-41848, 09860-1042 . YANKIN, Near Yankin Centre, 1450 sqft, Fully furnished, 1 MB, 2 BR, No need to pay agent fee, Ph: 09-430-83781 BAHAN (1) Golden valley, 0.3 acre land, 3 storey building, 6 MBR, ph line, new air conditioners, furnished, generator, big car spacious, nice garden, good view, water 2 lines with purify system, suitable for both office and residence. (2) Kamayut, Inya Rd, 1acre land, tennis coat, big garden, 2 storey building, 4 MBR, 2 storey colonial style house, generator, (3) Sanchaung, Pyay Rd, condo pent house, 3000sqft, 2 MBR, 1 BR, Furnished, Ph line, big
Travel
FUTURE WINGS Travels & Tours Co., Ltd, Akhoon Int'l Trading Co., Ltd. Authorized Money Changer : 25, Konzaydan St, Pabedan Tsp. Ph: 243441, 249189, Email : akhoon.maneychanger @gmail.com FLEET 24Seven : Fully maintained operating leases (self drive). New left hand drive Pickups, Commercials, Trucks & Refrig. Trucks. www. fleet24seven.com NYAN MYINT THU Car Rental Service : Ko Nyan Myint Win Kyi (MD) - 56, Bo Ywe St, Latha, Yangon, Myanmar. Ph : 01-246551, 01-375284. Hp:09-2132778. il:nyanmyintthu1983@ gmail.com, nmt@nyan myintthucarrental. com, colwinkyi@ gmail.com. Web:www. nyanmyintthucarrental. com
balcony, good view, 4 aircons, US $4000 per month, Negotiable price. Ph : 09-507-4241 GOLDEN VALLEY - A luxury modern 3 storey fully furnished house in good quiet locality with a manicured managable garden including pool for relaxing. 4 master bed rooms, 3 rooms with walk-in-wardrobes, 6 A/C and telephone. No brokers. If interested contact 09-541-2499. (1) BAHAN, Pearl Condo, 1500 sq.ft, 4 A/C, Ph, Furn. 15 Lakhs (2) Sanchaung, Makyikyi Condo, 2400 sq.ft, 2MB, 2BR, f.f, 30 Lakhs, (3) Bahan, New University Ave Condo, 2040 sq.ft, Ph, Internet, f.f, 16 Lakhs, (4)Kamayut, 100'x100', RC2 Storey house, 50 Lakhs. Maureen: 09518-8320. BAHAN, (1)Near Japan Embassy, 1100 Sqft, 1 MR, 2 SR, fully furnish 1600 USD. (2).Golden velley, 1RC,4000 Sqft, 1 MR, 2 SR, 2500 USD. (3).Golden velley,Than Lwin Rd, 2RC, 6500 Sqft, 3 MR, 6500 USD. (4).Golden velley, near ISY school, 2 RC,4200 Sqft, 2 MR, 2 SR, 4500 USD. (5).Pearl condo, 1250 Sqft, 1 MR, 2SR, 1546 USD. (6).Kandaw gyi Tower, 1500 Sqft, 1 MR, 2 SR, fully furnish 2500 USD. (7).Near Kandawgyi Park, 1600 Sqft, 2 MR, 1 SR, fully furnish 2000 USD. (8). Near Kan daw gyi hotel, 1000 Sqft, 3 FL,1 MR,2 SR, fully furnish, 800 USD. Ph: 09-4921-4276
HousingforSale
LANDS for sale suitable for making Industrial buildings in large area. Buyers can Contact Us on 09-4500-59037. (There is no pay for Agents & Third party ... Warmly welcome the buyers.
Public Notices
NEW PROGRAM at Wisdom Management Centre : Business Psychology & Management, Level : Advanced Certificate, Duration : 12-Week, Fees : 95,000 Ks. Start Date : October 6, 2013 (Sunday) Day : Sunday (9:00 AM 12:30 PM), Trainer: Dr. Myo Min Oo: Ph.D. (New Orleans), D.Min. (Indiana), M.S.B. (Notre Dame), Professor, Christian Theological Seminary. Principal, Wisdom Management Centre Advisor, Gracious Life Ministry International Training Director, Centre for the Study of Human Development. Contact : Miss Marlar - Program Manager, Wisdom Management Center : 8, (6A), Chan Thar St, San Chaung. Ph: 09- 73002705, 09- 537-0230
General
GUEST Care Hotel : 107(A) Dhamma Zedi Rd, Bahan, Yangon. Tel: 01511118, 526902, 527770. Email: reservations@ guestcarehotel.com. www.guestcarehotel.com COFFEE CIRCLES Coffeehouse & Restaurant. Menu: Excellent Coffee (InHouse Roasting), European & Asian Cuisines, Wines, Cocktails, Bakery & Pastry. Open Daily: 7:00 am to 12:00 midnight. 107(A) Dhamma Zedi Rd, Bahan, Yangon, Tel: 525157, CoffeeCircles@ gmail.com www. theCoffeeCircles. com Facebook.com/ CoffeeCirclesMyanmar NEO Coffee and Food. Menu: Coffee, Bakery & Food. Open Daily: 9:00
Want to Buy
APPLE : Macbook Pro, Macbook Air, iMac, Mac Mini iPhone 5, 4S, 4, iPod 5, 4 iPad 2, 3, 4, Mini Wifi Only & Wifi + 4G, Apple TV, Apple Mouse A.K Mobile Ko Myo San. No 124, 31 St(Middle) Pabedan. Ph: 09-4500-39844. USED Or Brand New Macbook Pro , Macbook Air, iMac, Mac Mini iPad 4 Wifi Only & Wifi + 4G iPhone 5, iPod 5 Samsung S4 HTC One . Ph : 09-501-6694 CHERRY QQ3 (Taxi). Pls contact; 09-4211-31257 WE want to buy Marine Generator operation and maintenance manual books and Marine main engines operation and maintenance manual books(B&W or Yanmar Or UEC , etc..Pls contact 09-518-4314
Want to Rent
SANCHAUNG, Ma Kyee Kyee St, Moe Myint San Condo: 28' x 75' (2100 sq.ft) 2nd flr. 2 MBR, 2 BR, 4 A.C, water heater, furnitures. Price : 23 lakhs. Ph: 09-73027267, 09-730-52266. LANMADAW, 12 St, The whole 8 unit (lift). For hotel, education. Ph: 09-566-1037. NEED SIMPLE HOUSE with at least 4 bedrooms, 2 toilets & if possible, near to public transportation. Occupancy in November. Willing to pay 8 lakhs. Contact Ha Min Shwe at 09-4201-212 65.
For Sale
9% NEW SAMSUNG Series 5 Ultra Book Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D + SSD Display 13.3 1 Year 6 Month International Warranty. Price : 650000. Ph : 09-4200-50651 ASUS A42J Intel Core i7 Ram 4GB H.D.D 500GB Garaphic 2GB Price : 435000. Ph : 09-501-6694 SAMSUNG Galaxy S3 LTE (3G/4G LTE Network) 1.5 GHz Processor Quad Core 8MP LED Flash Camera & Camcorder Android 4.1 Jelly Bean 4.8" To u c h s c r e e n - S u p e r AMOLED Plus Display Very good internet speed Brand New. Good Price: 440000 Ks. Negotiable. Ph:09-507-4152.
Want to Buy
WE want to buy about (100 ft x 100 ft), (Need to join ownerself), Ph: 09-566-1037.
FREE
Employment
other products, adhesives including water based polymerisocyanate adhesive systems designed for wood to wood, wood to metal & wood to plastic bonding invites motivated & committed individuals to join the company as: (1)Sales Engineer who will work toplan, develop, & coordinate the Myanmarbased sales & marketing of the companys adhesive products and services in Myanmar: Work experience in adhesives, wood, furniture or chemical industry helpful. Degree (preferably in chemistry, engineering, science, business, etc.) from a good university. Sales & marketing experience & aptitude an advantage. Entrepreneurial, indepen dent & possesses outstanding leadership qualities. Businesssavvy and street smart. Exceptionally driven & ambitious. Good command of Japanese, Myanmar and English languages essential. Pls email & submit CV to leinlein79@gmail.com. TOUR & LIMO Services Co is seeking (1) Operations Executive - M/F 1 Post : 3 years relevant experience. Age 25 ~ 35. (2) Operations Assistant - M/F 1 Post : 1 year relevant experience. Age above 20. (3)Marketing Execu tive - M/F 1 Post : 2 years relevant experience. For 1 ~ 3 : Good in spoken & written English. Age 25 ~ 35 years. (4)Drivers - M 5 Posts : 2 years relevant experience. Good in spoken English. Age 25 ~ 40 . Pls contact : 09-5108481. A TOURISM company in Myanmar is looking for (1).Sales & Operations Admin Staff -1 post (2). Contracting Manager - 1 post (3)Sales & Operation Admin Staff - 1 post. Job Responsibilities : Manage Oversee invoicing and payment Follow up with supplier. Adding products for bookings. Identify new products. Cancelling un-required products. Regular monitor invoice & deposit pending. Develop & Implement sales report. Monitor guides, airlines, Other services suppliers information updated. Contracting Manager 1 post : Ensure hotels are re-contracted within the specific deadlines. Identify must-have hotels within a destination & contract where appropriate. Undertake to travel or maintain relationship with hoteliers & operation team. Negotiate addedvalue deals and special offers for GIT/ Series/ Incentive. Advised preferred partner hotels & negotiate the exclusive deals. Regularly monitor competitor pricing. Address and resolve any standard/ service level issue with suppliers. Ensure hotels are inspected & details information updated in factsheet. Monitor hotel tariffs and selling rates. Pls send full resume stating qualification, experience, supporting documents, current and expected salary, a recent passport photo & contact details to adminmyanmar@ phoenixvoyages.com or ph :09-514-9808,09500-5990 before 30th September 2013. A WELL-established company is looking for highly-motivated engineers. Successful candidates will be employed as service engineers for installation & maintenance of advanced medical equipments including CT scanner. Candidates must: Have a Bachelor Degree in Electronic or equivalent. Good command of spoken English. Have good basic knowledge of electronics. Be willing to travel within and abroad Myanmar. Previous working experience is preferable, but not a necessity as the company will provide the necessary training. Pls submit application form along with the C.V & recent photograph to Rm 2-C, Shwe Padauk Condominium, 99/A, Myay Nu St, Sanchaung, Yangon. (within two weeks) PEACE Treasure Co., Ltd is seeking (1) Operational Manager/ Team Leaders - 2 Posts : You will lead a team of Property Management staff in managing a portfolio of properties. 3 years of experience in a managerial positioin handling corporate or private real estate. (2) Sales Representatives 10 Posts : You should be a team player, good computer literacy & knowledge of building system software applications. 1 years sales working experience in Real Estate Industries. Pls submit resume, photo Working Experience, achievement & Position, Language skills, Academic certificates, Recent photo, Last Drawn Salary, Availability, Notice Period to ptyangon@ gmail.com, apnetw@ ymail.com, Tel: 543238, 09-516-4646. MYANMAR Survey Research (MSR) is looking for (1) Inter national Consultant in Yangon: 3 years experience in a research space - ideally social and public policy research; superb data analytical and report writing skills; excellent communication skills and ability to build rapport with people for a range of backgrounds. (2) Chief Accountant - M/F 1 post; CPA or ACCA or other relevant qualification, 5 years experience in accounting & auditing, good English communication skills, computer literate. Pls submit CV with recent photo and relevant documents to #55, Maha Bandoola Garden St, Yangon. Email: msr@ m y a n m a r. c o m . m m within three weeks. MiTA Myanmar @ ISBC Company is seeking Business Analyst - F 3 posts: Any graduate , preferably having Master Degree in Business Administration, Engi neering, English, Economics, Marketing, Management; Age 20 ~ 30, Experience less than 5 years (fresh graduates can also apply). Candidate should be proficient in MS office, internet & email applications, have good knowledge in market research, liaison, data collection, analyzing information, report writing & presentation. Should be able to work independently with minimum supervision & be initiative. Candidate must be fluent in speaking & writing English. Pls email application with CV including contact details to hrm.mm@ mitaservices.com. sg at the earliest possible. Closing date: 30 September 2013. Applications with CV will be evaluated in batches and positions will be filled up on first-come first-served basis. ASIA Language & Business Academy (ALBA) urgently requires a part-time Native English teacher for our pre-KG program. Pls contact: 384055, 376236, 376314. Email: admin@albaedu.com A TOURISM company in Myanmar is looking for (1).Sales & Operation Admin Staff 1 post: Manage Oversea invoicing and payment. Follow up with supplier Adding products for bookings Identify new products. Cancelling un-required products. Regular monitor invoice & deposit pending. Develop and Implement sales report. Monitor guides, airlines, Other services suppliers information updated (2) Contracting Manager 1 post : Ensure hotels are re-contracted within the specific deadlines. Identify must-have hotels within a destination & contract where appropriate. Undertake to travel or maintain relationship with hoteliers & operation team. Negotiate addedvalue deals and special offers for GIT/ Series/ Incentive Advised preferred partner hotels & negotiate the exclusive deals. Regularly monitor competitor pricing. Address & resolve any standard/ service level issue with suppliers. Ensure hotels are inspected & details information updated in factsheet. Monitor hotel tariffs and selling rates. Pls send full resume stating qualification, experience, supporting documents, current & expected salary, a recent passport photo & contact details to adminmyanmar@ phoenixvoyages.com or ph:09-514 -9808 or 09500- 5990 before 30th September 2013. (1).MARKETING Executive (Logistics Division) - F 1 post : Age 25 ~ 35, Any graduate, Good communication in English 4 skills,Computer literate in MS office,Good interpersonal skill, ability to work independently, self motivated , teamwork & co-ordination skill. Must be smart working , energetic & aggressive, Pls summit CV together with working experience, Academic certificates, Recent photo & NRC card to Rm 17, 5th flr, 348/352, Corner of Merchant Rd & Bo Myat Htun St. Botahtaung. Tel:01-9010188~189, or email: marketingone@ sedate.biz , sedate@ cybertech.net.mm. ARYU THUKHA Specialist Hospital, Lashio is seeking suitable person for the following positions. (1).Nurses 3 posts (2)Laboratory technician - 2 posts (3).Radiographer - 2 posts. Requirements : Dip. In Nursing. B.Med. Tech. (Lab technology). B.Med.Tech. (Medical imaging). Interested candidates can enquire at 09-502-6602. A COMPANY with Services (Hotel & Management Projects) in Myanmar is looking for (1)Accountant 1 post (2)Assistant Accountant - 1 post (3)Sales Executive - 1 post (4) Receptionist & Administrative 2 posts (5) General Cleaning - 3 posts (6) Security staffs - 2 posts. Pls send full resume stating qualification, experience, supporting documents, current and expected salary, a recent passport-sized photo and contact details to sboc.yangon@gmail. com or ph : 09-514-9808 or 09-500-5990 before 30th September 2013. WE WANT, There is available for Receptionist position who can speak and understand English well. Prefer who already passed LCCI 1 & 2. Call: 09-4201-00188. CENTURE is one of the leading office furniture providers in Myanmar. We are looking for "Performers", who apply the same standard to their work and who want to enhance their skill and competence. Join us and rise over expectations in a modern & dynamic work ambience. Our Open Positions (English and Computer skill required) (1)Sales Manager - 2 positions M/F Your management experience and sales expertise will advance our performance. (2) Sales Executive - 5 positions M/F Join our Sales Team with your market knowledge & strong customer orientation. Pls forward your application until 30th September 2013 to: Mail mailHRdepartment@ gmail.com Add: Rm 402, 4th Flr, Bldg-C, Dagon Centre, San Chaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 01524611, 514324. I N T E R N AT I O N A L Furnitures from KOREA (ENOB Sofa, Cloth Cabinets, Kitchen Cabinets and Others Furnitures) Company Limited is searching Sales & Marketing Executive : University graduate, 3 years experience in related fields,Age under 40, Must go & promote Hotels, Restaurant & others places, Computer skills & fluent in English. Ph : 09-4210-8 4764. Email : january.snow81@gmail. com REQUIRED urgently in Limited Foreign Company, salary as per experiences & market standard. Designation: Receiptionist : 3 years experience, Age : No bar. Salary: As per market standards. Nationality: Indian(Preferred) / Other with English Speaking & writing skills. Responsibility: To do receptionist duty needfully. Note:The candidate will have good personality , can nicely conversation with phone which coming from customers, from MD,VP& other oversea staff & outsider & can do other receptionist job. Contact details: 09500-2025, 01-371374, 371375, 393227, Email ID: zmtcool@gmail.com, jyoti.b227@gmail.com, jyoti.b227@rediffmail. com NESTLE is the worlds leading Nutrition, Health & Wellness Company is seeking (1)Nutrition Advisor Supervisor : Bachelors Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Doctor, Pharmaceutical or related fields. 3 year experience. Computer & English literacy. Willing to travel (2)Channel Sales Supervisor-NP Myanmar (based in Yangon) :Bachelors Degree in Business Administration or related education degree.3 years experience. Computer literacy & Intermediate English communication skills. (3)Sales Trade Development Manager : Bachelors Degree in Business Administration or relevant educational degree. 5 years experience. Computer literacy & English communication skills. Willing to travel. Pls submit complete detailed resume to Nestle Trading (Thailand) Ltd. (Myanmar Representative Office): Flr 11th Centerpoint Towers, 65 Corner of Sule Pagoda Rd & Merchant St, Kyauktada, Yangon. Ph: 09-73232462 Or email to Email : zinhnaung_a@ nestlemyanmar.com. mm (OR) tztzha@gmail. com EXOTISSIMO Travel is looking for French Tour Operator : Working experience in tourism related field is preferred. Pro-active ,team spirit, good organisational and problem solving skill. Excellent interpersonal skills & communication skills. Strong sales & customer service focus. Possess computer proficiency : Microsoft word, Excel, Outlook & PowerPoint. Good communication in English & French (Written & Spoken). Pls send a detailed resume with recent photo & other relevant documents to HR Manager at 147, Shwe Gone Dine St, West Shwe Gone Dine Ward, Bahan, Yangon, Email: memecho@ exotissimo.com
Embassy
DIPLOMAT seeks experienced private driver. Must be able to drive RHD/AT and LHD/MT cars. Sufficient command of English a must. Good working conditions. Tel.: 09 514 00022"
UN Positions
IOM Int'l Organization for Migration is seeking (1) Accounting Assistant in Myawaddy, Kayin State: Academic back ground in Business Administration or related field. 2 years of progressive experience. Good in English. Excellent computer skills. (2) Nurse Counsellor in Mawlamyine, Mon State: Diploma/ University degree in Nursing. Valid license to practice is a requirement. Experience in treating HIV patients is favourable. Experience of counselling for clients with intermediate level counselling practice for 1 ~ 2 years. (3) Office Driver in Yangon: Valid driving license. 3 years of experience as a driver with safe driving record. Good knowledge of English. Pls submit CV to IOM Mission in Myanmar, 318-A, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Email: hryangon@iom. int, www.iom.int, Ph: 210588,
Ingo Positions
MEDECINS Sans Frontieres - Holland (AZG) is seeking Deputy HR Coordinator 1 post in Yangon: University Degree. Preferable previous HR experience with MSF or other INGO. 2 years experience in HR and/or administration. Fluent in English. Excellent computer skill. Pls send application letter, CV & passport photo, copy of national ID card, copies of education qualifications & references to: HR Coordinator, MSFHolland (Yangon Coordination Office), 59, Aye Yadanar St, Thirigon Villa, T h i n g a n g y u n , Yangon. or through msfh.myanmar. recruitment@gmail. com, Closing date: October 2nd, 2013. MYANMAR Red Cross Society is seeking (1) Water & Sanitation Officer 1 post in Nay Pyi Taw: University Degree in Water & Sanitation, Civil Engineering or related field. 3 years experience in related community based water & sanitation project. Effective English language skills (2) WatSan Project Coordinator 1 post in Nay Pyi Taw: Relevant University degree. 5 years experience in water, hygiene & sanitation field. For all posts : Computer literacy. Red Cross Volunteers are preferable. Pls send application letter, CV & related documents to Myanmar Red Cross Society Head Office. Yazathingaha Rd, Dekkhinathiri, Nay Pyi Taw. Or mrcshrrecruitment@ gmail.com, Closing date : 4.10.2013. MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is seeking HIV Medical Doctor 1 post in Yangon: MBBS (with valid medical registration: SAMA). 1 year experience as a medical doctor in the field of HIV. Fluent in English. Good computer skills & clinical skill. Pls submit CV & a cover letter to MDM Yangon Office : 2, Aung Dhama Yeik Tha St, Hlaing, Yangon, Ph: 664352, 660948, Email:
office.mdmmyanmar@ gmail.com MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is seeking (1) Field Administrator 1 post in Pyapon: University diploma in accounting and general administration. 3 years' experience as administrator with significant financial & human resources responsiblities (minimum of 30 staff). Fluent in English. (2) Medical Advisor 1 post in Kachin and Yangon: MBBS (with valid medical registration: SaMa). Minimum clinical experience 5 years, 3 years experience in HIV/ ART treatment. Fluent in English. Good computer skills, Microsoft Office. Pls submit CV & a cover letter to MDM Country Coordination Office, Yangon : 47B, Po Sein St, Bahan, Yangon, Ph: 542830, 09-731-71002, Email: office.mdmmyanmar@ gmail.com NORWEGIAN Refugee Council is seeking Finance Officer Post in Taunggyi: Bachelor in accounting. 2 ~ 3 years of relevant finance experience. Pls submit CV, including application letter and contact detail of two referees (no other supporting documents are required for this state), clearly indicating the position on your CV to HR Officer, NRC, 68, Than Lwin Rd (Corner with Aung Daw Mu St), Bahan, Yangon or mail to : admin-hr@myanmar. nrc.no with cc to mntun@ myanmar.nrc.no Closing date : 2nd October 2013. SOLIDARITES is seeking HR Officer 1 post in Sittwe, Rakhine State : Any University degree. Fluent in English & Myanmar. Good computer skill in Windows XP/7, MS office 2007/2010. Preferable have the knowledge of Homere software (HR software of Solidarites int'l) acceptable who can learn quickly. Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references) to : Solidarites Int'l office : 44-A, Tharyarwaddy Lane, Bahan, Yangon or per email: hr.recruitment. mm@gmail.com, cc: to rks.admassist.stw@ solidarites-myanmar. org, Closing date: 11st October, 2013. MYANMAR Red Cross Society is seeking Branch WASH Officer (CBHDP focus on MNCH) 1 post in Falam: University Degree or AGTI. 2 years' experience in Wat San related activities in CBHD. Red Cross Volunteer or Resident in the project areas is preferable. Pls send application letter, CV & related documents to Myanmar Red Cross Society Head Office, Yazathingaha Rd, Dekkhinathiri, Nay Pyi Taw. Or mrcshrrecruitment@ gmail.com MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is seeking (1) Project Manager -1 post in Hopin, Kachin State: University Degree in any of following specialities: Public Health, Medical Science, Social Work, Public. Administration, Program Management. 3 years experience in NGO's, possibly in Health programs, out of which 2 years in senior management position. Fluent in English. (2) Logistics Supervisor - 1 post in Pyapon: Bachelor or Master Degree. 3 years experience as logistician. Fluency in Myanmar & English. Pls submit CV& a cover letter to MDM Country Coordination Office, Yangon, 47, Po Sein St, Bahan. Ph: 542830, 09-731-71002, Email: office.mdmmyanmar@ gmail.com
Local Positions
WE ARE seeking Accountant - M/F 1 Post : Age above 26 , Good in English, 3 years relevant experience, Able to prepare & handle full set of accounts, Maintain and supervise accounting procedures, Good knowledge of Microsoft Advanced Excel & Accounting Software. (2)Admin/ Accounts Assistant 1 Post : Age above 23, Good in English, 2 years experience, Good organizational skills, Computer literate: MS Word/Excel/Email. Pls contact : 09-506-9346, 09-512-8164. (1)ACCOUNTANT - 1 post: Handle full set of accounts, fix assets & inventory, Prepare monthly management report. Monitor account receivable & payable; perform various reconciliation (bank, company registration), Handle Audit & Tax queries, Process investment and project claims & report.(2) Assistant Accountant 1 post : Handle cash management & account receivable & payable. Prepare monthly management report. (3)Sales Executive1 post : Manage Marketing & Sales of Hotel Management & Business Center Develop and Implement sales plan according to management guideline to accomplish growth targets. (4) Receptionist & Administrative Staff 2 post : Handle incoming calls in a friendly & courteous tone to direct to the personnel/ department Receive and delivers message for department personnels line Provide information about services to guests Monitors phone lines, fax, & extension function. (5)General Cleaning Staffs - 3 posts : Handle office and public area cleaning on day-to-day basis. Knowledge of using cleaning products and equipments. Provide cafeteria services to all office staffs. (6)Security Staff 2 posts : Patrol premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion & ensure safety. Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees & visitors, etc. . Skill on security equipment as CCTV, Access control system. Pls send full resume stating qualification, experience, supporting documents, current and expected salary, a recent passport photo & contact details to sboc.yangon@ gmail.com or ph : 09514-9808, 09-500-5990 before 30th September 2013. TO DO resceptionist duty, We are preferred to Good personality, Any graduate, Who can speak & understand English well. Can nicely converstion to the phone receivine & other receptionist duty. Contact : 09-555054, 554-052, 09-420089100, No : 22, U Chit Mg Housing, U Chit Mg Rd, Tamwe. A LEADING Japanese manufacturer & distributor of, among
Job Wanted
AN EXPERIENCED writer, editor, translator, interpreter with good communication skill and proficient in English 4skills is looking for a full time or part time job stationed in Pyin Oo Lwin. contact at 09-431 97513. mail: maw.san@ gmail.com
58 Sport
SEOUL
Ben Johnson gestures to an audience as he stands next to a 100-meters long anti doping petition at the Seoul Olympic Stadium on September 24, 2013. Photo: AFP
strategies to combat continued drug use in athletics. On September 24 at precisely 1:30pm, Johnson stood at the starting point on Lane 6 his lane in the final and strolled down the track he burned up in 1988. As he walked, two volunteers unrolled in his path a 100-meter long petition with 3700 signatures the campaign has collected over the past month. At the finish line, he recreated the famous finger-raised pose he struck at the moment of victory 25 years ago. Of course I feel remorse, regret, but its not the biggest issue in my life anymore. Ive accepted it and Ive moved forward, he said. The sport has recently been rocked by a string of doping cases, including high-profile athletes such as Tyson Gay, Asafa Powell and Veronica Campbell-Brown. The sports world governing body, the IAAF, announced last month that it would impose four-year bans for drug offenders from 2015.
Seven athletes, including one finalist, tested positive for doping at Augusts World Athletics Championships in Moscow. The testing procedures may have got better and more accurate, but the drugs are advancing as well, Johnson said. The campaign is not limited to raising awareness of doping in athletics, but works across the sporting spectrum. Johnson voiced some sympathy for Lance Armstrong, saying the disgraced American cyclist was being singled out, much as he was, in a sport where doping is prevalent. I hope he can get through this, Johnson said. Its going to be tough and he has a long fight ahead of him. Asked what he would change if he could go back 25 years, Johnson said there was no point trying to live in the past. But I still believe I could have won the Olympic Games without any drugs back then, he added. AFP
Tha Pyay Nyo and Pho Thar Gyi fight at the Myanmar-Japan Let Wei Challenge Fight on S
KYAW ZIN HLAING kyawzinhlaing91@gmail.com YANMAR and Japanese kickboxers squared off last week in a highly anticipated tournament in Yangon. Though both bouts were filled with action, spectators were disappointed that the hometown fighters were unable to deliver convincing wins, with both matches ending in draws. Nyan Linn Aung fought Fujihara Arashi, while in the main event Tun Tun Min took on challenger Samukawa at the first Myanmar-Japan Let
Wei Challenge Fight on September 21 at Thein Phyu Stadium. Nyan Linn Aung appeared overmatched against a hard-charging Arashi, taking a number of shots in the first and second rounds. As the fight progressed Nyan Linn Aung tried to head-butt Arashi, but he was able to slip most of Nyan Linn Aungs attempts. By the 3rd round, Fujihara was bleeding from two cuts, one on each side of his head. The match ended in a draw, with fight fans applauding the toughness shown by Fujihara. The main event pitted Tun Tun Min against Samukawa. At just 22 there were doubts surrounding the dura-
SINGAPORE
IN PICTURES
There was no doubt about it: Pitcher Jason Grilli (39) and catcher Russell Martin (55) of the Pittsburgh Pirates celebrate after getting the final out during their September 23 game against the Chicago Cubs, clinching their first playoff berth in 21 years. Photo: AFP
www.mmtimes.com
Sport 59
SHORINJI KEMPO
FOLLOWING its debut at the Indonesia Games in 2011, shorinji kempo will return once more to the Southeast Asian Games as just one of the eight combat sports or martial arts to be featured. Where does it originate? Arguably born from the embers of Japanese defeat in World War Two, this style of combat was founded by Dshin S, following his experiences in Chinese Manchuria. Operating as an undercover Japanese intelligence officer, Dshin had the opportunity to study kung fu at a Chinese Taoist school and Shaolin temple in the 1930s and 40s. After his countrys defeat he believed that his special combination of Buddhist philosophy, mental and physical training could rebuild the confidence of the demoralised Japanese people. Returning in 1947 to the Japanese town of Tadotsu, shorinji kempo was initially established as a religious practice before becoming available to anyone who wished to improve their balance in mind and body. Whats it all about? Kempo focuses on delivering the training of both soft, passive selfdefence techniques to release oneself from being held against your will and the hard active techniques that include punches, kicks, dodges and blocks. How do you play? The Myanmar Games will see competitions in both the embu (or artistic) format and randori (or free sparring) combat version of this event Embu entails six sections delivered by the kenshi (or kempo participant), who will focus upon producing flawless delivery and style. In the pairs competition one kenshi will first act as an attacker, while the other assumes the role of defender. A set pattern is then acted out before the roles are reversed and the same techniques repeated for the second section of the demonstration. Next the kenshi have the chance to demonstrate their creative flair with a period of free-form counterattacking. The final three sections focus on juho, throws and releases, katame, pinning techniques, and finally kime (or finishing techniques) that focus on striking various nerve points across the body. Randori (or free fighting) is rarely used as a competitive sport. Indeed the existence of a competitive combat format of shorinji kempo upsets many traditionalists who believe this acts in contradiction of the spirit and teachings at the heart of this martial art. Traditionally used solely for the development oftechniques learnt and demonstrated in the Embu format of shorinji kempo. Randori free fighting is considered essential in developing a sense of realism to self-defence training and the ability to react according to the context and the creativity of combat. For full contact Randori head protectors and mitts are worn to reduce risk of injury and the whole thing is supervised by the referee. How do you win? In the Embu categories, the scoring resembles the marks in some gymnastic or dance competitions. Five judges provide gijitsudo (or technical quality marks) out of 10 for each of the six sections delivered before
hallengers hy foes
bility of Tun Tun Min who has risen quickly through the fighting ranks. Though hailing from Japan, Samukawa, 32, is a familiar name to most Myanmar kickboxing fans. In 2011 he fought two matches in Yangon, drawing with both free weight champions Lone Chaw and Saw Nga Man. Tun Tun Min jumped out to an early advantage, battering Samukawa. But as the rounds wore on Tun Tun Min was unable to ever fully put Samukawa away and allowed the veteran to fight his way back. By the final bell Samukawa had battled back enough to be awarded a draw. Speaking to The Myanmar Times following the fight, Tun Tun Min said that his fight plan was to work fast, but that Samukawas long arms made it difficult to land the punches he needed to score a quick knockout. His reach is longer than mine and that was the biggest problem for me. It prevented me from hitting him like I wanted to. Ye Thway, Tun Tun Mins trainer ,said that Samukawas preparation before the fight gave him an advantage. Samukawa is very tough and has also prepared using modern equipment that helped him to improve stability and skills, so it was hard for Tun Tun Win to knock him down, he said.
Athletes compete at the Five Nations Kempo tournament in Yangon on September 15. Photo: Myanmar Kempo Federation
MATT ROEBUCK
newsroom@myanmartimes.com.mm
pan with nearly 3000 branches, the WSKO suggests it now has national federations or branches in 35 other countries, Myanmar not being among them. The martial art has a strong female following, possibly influenced by the current leader of Shorinji Kempo, the daughter of Dshin S How many medals are available? There will be 18 medals up for grabs this year. Randori competitions are divided into four weight categories across both male and female categories. Embu categories feature medals for male, female and mixed pairs, plus group competitions for four and eight athletes. In total there will be 16 medals on offer. Whats the betting? Outside of Japan, Indonesia is a stronghold for this martial art. The archipelago nation introduced this event last time around and there is no doubt that they must be considered strong contenders for a number of medals. In 2011 they secured eight gold and 16 medals in total. Shorinji kempo also recognises federations in Vietnam, Timor Leste, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia . All but Malaysia added to their medal collection with this sport last time round. Myanmars federation is young and so its competitors are likely to be inexperienced, but they should take encouragement from Bruneis 2011 performance. With a federation only having just being established, Brunei shocked commentators when it managed to secure two silver medals including a mixed group embudemonstration. Where will it all happen? The Kempo will be one of the seven events to be held in Yangon, with the action focusing on National Indoor Stadium. Matt Roebuck is a sports writer and sports development consultant based in Yangon. He is the author of the book The Other Olympics, published in 2012.
In December, Myanmar will welcome athletes from across Southeast Asia to compete in 33 sports during the 27th Southeast Asian Games. Though some have criticised the choice of events, the inclusion of so many regional sports gives this event a flavour that can truly showcase a unique image of the ASEAN region. Over the upcoming weeks well be showcasing sports popular in Southeast Asia. These games may never make it to the Olympics but they will get their moment at the SEA Games. adding an additional 40 marks across a further four categories that relate to their overall impression of the performance. The randori competition is less subjective, although the judging in combat sports often results in upsets, controversy and even protest. In the last games, all competitors were placed in two pools where they fought one another, the victors in these round-robin competitions met in the final to decide gold. What should you be saying? As Dshin S once said, Shorinji Kempo is not a mere sport or martial art. Gassho-rei, the greeting commonly used amongst Buddhist pupils in Japan, is also the salute of the kenshi. Where is it played? According to the World Shorinji Kempo Organisation (WSKO) over 1,500,000 people have participated in the martial art since its conception. Still focused primarily in Ja-
380
Sport
60 THE MYANMAR TIMES SEPTEMBER 30 - OCTOBER 6, 2013
BRIEFS
Englands Stephen Lee was given a record 12-year ban on September 25 after being found guilty of seven charges of match-fixing, snookers world governing body announced. The 38-year-old Lee, the former world number five, was found guilty by an independent tribunal last week of match-fixing charges relating to matches in 2008 and 2009. Lee was also ordered to pay 38,000 (US$61,000) in costs racked up by tribunal chairman Adam Lewis, one of Englands leading sports lawyers.
Oracle Team USA (left) and Emirates Team New Zealand start the final race of the Americas Cup on September 25 in San Francisco. Photo: AFP
The Washington Capitals will play host to the National Hockey Leagues annual New Years Day outdoor game in 2015, the league announced last week. The game will be staged on January 1, 2015, against an opponent to be named later at a site yet to be revealed. Baseballs Washington Nationals have a ballpark only a few subway stops from the Capitals home arena and one of the minority shareholders in the NHL clubs ownership group is the owner of the Nationals. Another possible venu is the home stadium of American footballs Washington Redskins, which would offer more potential seats.
AUCKLAND
Detroit Lions wide receiver Nate Burleson suffered a broken left arm on September 24 in a one-car crash after being distracted by a slice of pizza falling off the front passenger seat. Police said alcohol was not a factor in the early morning accident in which Burlesons car struck the centre wall on Interstate 696. The crash took place as the 32-year-old was driving home after watching an NFL game on September 23 with friends. Burleson has 19 catches for 239 yards in three games, including six receptions for 116 yards in Detroits 27-20 victory last Sunday at Washington. Last season, he played only six games after suffering a broken leg in October.
Ei Ei Thu
91.eieithu@gmail.com
HEN youre getting married, its easy to get so caught up in arranging the details of the wedding that you forget what a wedding is supposed to be about. But a marriage lasts more than a day. In fact, its meant to last a lifetime. So whats the secret of a successful lifelong union? Daw Khin Mar Cho a veritable expert, after 40 years of happy marriage has the answer down to a science. She says its seven parts love, three parts understanding. Sometimes we misunderstand each other. But then he will coax me [and put me] first so I will be
Whatever kinds of difficulties weve been faced with we still love each other. Daw Khin Mar Cho
couple moved from Ayeyarwady Regions Bogale township in 2008 to Bayintnaung junction in Yangon. But thats not the only transition theyve had to deal with in their decades of wedded life. Before they were married, Daw challenge. Whatever kinds of difficulties weve been faced with as a married couple, we still love each other. So when we clash between us its just for a while. Whatever we are discussing, thats how we can live
with peace and happiness, Daw Khin Mar Cho said. She added, however, that she worries about young couples today and the portrayals of marriage theyre exposed to in the media. She said the influence of Korean TV dramas, which often show separated spouses, and the
changing attitudes in the country generally are leading young people to be less serious about the values of married life. Monogamy is crucial in life so as not to break up a married couple. If they arent interested in one another they will face problems in the future, Daw Khin Mar Cho said. I think today young people dont think about married life deeply so they are not stable in their married lives. She added that stability for a married couple requires both husband and wife to take responsibility. If they support each other considerately, she said, there is no reason they should split up. U Than Tun agreed, saying the importance of understanding and support in a marriage means that marrying for love leads to better, more prosperous matches than arranged marriages. And what about children? After the couple got married and had children, they said, they struggled and worked hard together to achieve the same status as others. They said they raised their children to be well educated and have high standards, and added, with satisfied and delighted faces, that their children had turned out just as theyd hoped. We have only one son and one daughter so we want them to pass through their lives smoothly. We dont expect anything in return from them. But if we are lucky, we can benefit from them, said U Than Tun. He added that, although everyone has to struggle in life, he felt it was because of his family that he could overcome sins and build up a peaceful and delightful life. I can live well like I do now because we live together, with all family members together sharing happiness, health and wealth. The values that lead to a good marriage, it seems, arent all that different from those that lead to a good life.
Film actor Htun Ko Ko and model Khin Wint Wah pose for a picture in Myanmar traditional wedding dress in Yangon last week. Photo: Ko Taik
U Kyaw Nyunt 63 years old Retired civil engineer, Yangon We were from the same town. My parents and her parents knew each other and we visited each others houses quite often. Id liked her ever since we were very young, but we never went through a period of being lovers. I just asked her
U Than Shwe 61years old Proof editor at The Peoples Age journal, Yangon She is the eldest daughter in her family and she is very particular. I really love the kind of mind she has. We first met when I worked as an assistant at my teachers tuition class near her house. After our relationship had gone on for one year her family learned about it. She was a first-year university student at that time, and her family told her to cut off our relationship or they would have her kicked out of school. I asked her what she wanted to be. She said her only wish was to get married to the one she had chosenas her boyfriend. We couldnt part from one another, so we had only one thing to do: to get married. We couldnt tell our parents openly so we got married secretly. As we understand each other from head to toe and had fallen very deeply in love, we didnt need any ring or some special words to propose.
Ko Myo Mg Mg Kyaw 35 years old Manager of Zayyar Tagon Company, Yangon Weve known each other since our matriculation standard. At that time we were just friends. In 2001 we started our relationship. It lasted more than three years without a wedding. We had talked about getting married, and even when and how, but in real life it didnt come out as we planned because of pressure from relatives on both sides. One day, without taking things too seriously, we were on a date around town and we got to the Yangon railway station. The ticket office was announcing two tickets left to Mandalay. I asked my wife, Shall we go to Mandalay together? And she said yes. We didnt stop to think about any of the problems that would follow. We went to Mandalay for two days and hung around. We didnt have enough money, but we borrowed from friends and had the happiest time together, as we had been facing some problems back home in Yangon. After we came back from Mandalay, our parents arranged for us to get married. I didnt propose to her with a ring or anything. But when we fell in love I had told her father I wanted to marry her in the future.
directly if I could marry her. Before proposing I brought back some orchid seeds from Rakhine State. I planted the seeds, intending to give her the flowers when the buds came out. When she came to Yangon, I gave her an orchid and a love letter. The flowers were meant to relay the message that was difficult for me to say verbally. At that time I was over 30, and was nervous about proposing out loud. But we understood each other as we had known each other for so long. She accepted and we got married three months later.
Khin Su Wai
jasminekhin@gmail.com
N the day of a wedding in Myanmars rural villages, it used to be that nobody needed to cook lunch. Nobody, that is, except those hosting the wedding. Tradition dictated that everyone in the village could and would stop by, and that everyone who stopped by would be fed. Today, however, wedding celebrations are limited to close friends and relatives only, as villages are now too large for true communal feasting. And food isnt the only part of the celebration to have changed with the times. As in bigger cities, village weddings have become a professionals game. In our village, there are two wedding feast services, said Ko Soe Hlaing, a 49-year-old single man from Le Thit village, home to about 2000 people in Mandalay Regions Myingyan township. One group cooks normal rice and curries while the other group cooks only chicken rice. Ko Htay Thwin, from the same
village, said one of his nieces recently got married. He said the bridegrooms side covered the cost of the wedding ceremony and therefore took the wedding presents and money. It costs K1 million to invite 1000 guests to a wedding feast, he said. In the past, villagers didnt need to worry about hiring a wedding pavilion. Most people
built a temporary shed in front of their house and put two palm leaves at the entrance. If there was no coconut tree at their house, they would simply borrow from their neighbours. Today, however, villagers close to Mandalay sometimes celebrate their wedding at the hall in Kyauk Mee. Those who choose to stay home instead usually hire a wedding
pavilion building service to build them a beautiful pavilion. There are three or four such services in Le Thit village, with about the same number of amplifier rental services, even though the lack of electricity means the amps have to be powered by generators. In the past, the feast itself might have consisted of rice, pork curry, dhal and clear soup. Now, you see a wider range of choices: Some serve hearty meals of chicken rice, or couples on a smaller budget might opt for mohinga or simply tea and snacks. Bringing in caterers also changes the preparations required. No more do family members need to worry about ironing wet napkins or filling bowls on the dining table for guests to wash their hands in. Usually, however, there are enough pots, plates, bowls, kettles and even napkins for the gathering at the local monastery and religious hall. And the head of the village, acting as master of ceremonies, often brings his own silver bowl to collect up the money given to the newlyweds or more accurately to their parents. (Gifts intended for the couple themselves are often
Wedding Bliss
The Myanmar Times Special Feature
Editor: Myo Lwin Sub-editor Mya Kay Khine Soe, Wade Guyitt Cover Photo Ko Taik Cover models Htun Ko Ko and Khin Wint Wah Dress 7-Picture Wedding Dress Marvelous Wedding Planner and Fabric Fashion Writers Nandar Aung, Phyo Wai Kyaw, Khin Su Wai, Nyein Ei Ei Htwe, Lwin Mar Tun, Ei Thae Thae Naing, Aung Kyaw Nyunt, Mya Kay Khine Make-up artist Htet (Pop Soul) Desgin and Layout Tin Zaw Htway, Ko Pxyo, Khin Zaw Photographers Kaung Htet, Aung Htay Hlaing, Boothee
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Dressing Table @ Franzo No (15/ A-5), Pyay Road, A 1, 9 Miles, Mayangon Township, Yangon. Wedding Gown (Western) @ Exposure No. B-6, Aung San Stadium (North Wings), Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon. Wedding Men Dress (Western) @ Exposure No B-6, Aung San Stadium (North Wings), Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon. Child Gown @ Exposure No. B-6, Aung San Stadium (North Wings), Mingalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon. Shoes for Bride @ Exposure No B-6, Aung San Stadium (North Wings), MIngalar Taung Nyunt Township, Yangon. Dress for guest (Myanmar) @ Vivid Dagon Center-2, Top Floor.
Flower @ Sandy Floral No 102-A, Dhamasayti Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 8. Flower @ Sandy Floral No 102-A, Dhamasayti Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 9. Flower @ Sandy Floral No 102-A, Dhamasayti Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 10. Flower @ Sandy Floral No 102-A, Dhamasayti Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 11. Wedding Dress for Bride (Myanmar ) @ Marvelous No 6-B, Parami Road, Mayangon Township, Yangon. 12. Gaung Paung (Myanmar ) @ Marvelous No 6-B, Parami Road, Mayangon Township, Yangon. 7.
13. Dress for Bridegroom (Myanmar) @ Marvelous No 6-B, Parami Road, Mayangon Township, Yangon. 14. Dress Longyi for Bridegroom (Myanmar) @ Marvelous No 6-B, Parami Road, Mayangon Township, Yangon. 15. Pearl @ Precious Gems & Jewelry Shop No 29, New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 16. Sapphire @ Precious Gems & Jewelry Shop No 29, New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 17. Ruby @ Precious Gems & Jewelry Shop No 29, New University Avenue Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. 18. Shoes @ Lily No. 1/6, corner of Sabal Street and 6th Street, Yuzana Plaza, Yangon.
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EDDING invitations these days arent just designed to spread the news of a happy couples impending nuptials. Theyre also carefully calibrated attempts to advertise the prestige of the affianced pair and their families, not to mention ways of paying respect to and soliciting gifts from their more influential acquaintances. It wasnt always this way. U Aung Than, 62, was married in 1977 and lives in Yangon. In our time, he said, most people didnt compete to hold the greatest wedding. The best invitation cards as are used now didnt exist. Cards opened on one
A woman checks a sample invitation card at a shop in Yangon last month. Photo: KMT
invitation cards, and for my superior officers, I gave special invitation cards. 36-year-old married man
side. There were no pages of words inserted into the middle of the card. These invitation words were put on the inside of the card itself. At one time, people with wealthy relatives used invitation cards. But others, especially in rural areas, often spread the news to their neighbours and friends most of whom already knew both families simply by dropping by their houses bearing small gifts of cigarettes or flowers. For busy urban couples, however, cards are a must. And to cater to that growing demographic, more designs are available now than ever before. Many couples are seeking 2006, fancier cards imported from foreign countries became the norm. There are three kinds of card, said Ko Khin Maung Than, normal design, standard design and special design. Normal design is also known as old design. These would have been the best cards in 2006. Now the latest design, special design, is those after 2012. Normal design cards are printed with spaces ready for the name of the bride and bridegroom. Standard design cards are larger, and use silver and gold lettering. Special design cards are thicker still, and the most expensive even use silk and ribbons.
picture-perfect, even if that means being forced to spend money to keep up with ever-more-elaborate standards of invitation cards before the big day even arrives. But not everyone is caught up in the trend. Most girls want to have the
best wedding, said Ko Myo Myint Aung. He lives in Moegoke and got married in February 2013. My wifes family is more rich [than mine is], but we celebrated our wedding as I wanted. When we got married, we spent more on feeding our guests instead.
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Chaungtha Its one of the most popular beaches in Myanmar, so you may not think that returning to a place youve already been with friends and family is very exotic. But for that first trip with your soul mate, it will feel like a whole new experience. Yangon to Chaungtha by bus takes about six hours, and provides a picturesque view of the hills and small villages along the way. The prices at the resorts are fair compared to other well-known beaches, and you can visit the small villages nearby for souvenirs, local snacks and maybe even some new swimwear. After all, the beach is the real attraction here: You can ride horses and bicycles along the waters edge, go for a swim, then dry off and eat delicious, fresh seafood from the local market while watching the waves roll in. What better way to unwind after tying the knot? Ngwe Saung The road from Yangon forks at Pathein, and if you take the road that doesnt go to Chaungtha youll find yourself at another beach paradise further down the coast, one with even clearer waters. The roads have improved recently and the beach itself boasts several resorts and a small village. Endless white sand beaches are the perfect place for long romantic walks in which you share memories of the wedding and plan for a future together that will seem as wide and inviting as the water before you. And what better time for an excursion to nearby Lovers Island than on your honeymoon? Ngapali Theres no other way to say it: Ngapali in Rakhine State is Myanmars most beautiful beach. A 45-minute flight from Yangon takes you to Thandwe, and from there its just a 5-10 minute drive to reach sea air that will make you feel refreshed just to be breathing it in. The water is the clearest; the sand is the whitest there just isnt any place better to watch the sun setting over the Bay of Bengal. Theres also a fishing village nearby, so dont forget to take a break from soaking up the suns rays to soak up a bit of the local Rakhine culture as well. Inle Why head to water if theres no beach? The answer is that Inle is one of Myanmars most beguiling locales. Its full of tradition and a must-see for all visitors to the country, so if your perfect honeymoon involves more than just relaxing on the sand, it may also be perfect for you. Most villagers the Intha live on wood or bamboo houses built on the lake itself. Their lifestyle is simple and their fishing style rowing their boats by foot is famous. Its a 14-hour trip by car from Yangon, and the water markets are only open during pagoda festivals, so plan your trip carefully. What better way to celebrate the end of the Buddhist Lent period than with an October wedding and subsequent trip to the Phaung Daw Oo pagoda festival following the Thadingyut light festival celebrations? Mandalay A visit to Mandalay is a visit to the place where the last of the Myanmar royalty reigned. What better place to explore with the
newly crowned king or queen of your own heart? The palace and royal buildings are only some of many must-see landmarks. Youll also want to head out of the city to the U Bein bridge, where you can take pictures or even hire a boat to take you out on the water for a better view of the sunset or sunrise. Back in town, the climb up Mandalay Hill is a steep challenge but will give the two of you plenty of excuses to find a quiet bench to rest, chat and enjoy the panoramic view of the city and your future stretching before you. Bagan If you want to start your married
life by paying respect at pagodas, what better place than Bagan? The most famous ancient city in Myanmar has thousands of them, ranging from awe-inspiring monuments to smaller tributes now nearly overgrown by brush. A horse and cart or, better yet, two bicycles seems the ideal way to explore. Its 11 hours from Yangon by car, but a flight lasts less than an hour. Just remember that, regardless of what the guidebooks recommend atop a pagoda or hundreds of feet up in a hot-air balloon there is no one perfect place from which to see the sunset in Bagan. The fact is, theyre all perfect.
Hotels in Chaungtha await holiday makers and especially newly-weds. Photo: The Myanmar Times
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Nyein Ei Ei Htwe
nyeineieihtwe23@gmail.com
Film actors drink champagne at a wedding fair in Yangon. Photo: Lwin Maung Maung
VER the course of a marriage, differences of opinion can sometimes drive a wedge between a couple, or even lead to divorce. Thats true even for insignificant matters. When it comes to the larger issues faith, culture, customs, language the challenges can be even greater. For some cross-cultural couples, however, theyre just another everyday part of the joys and struggles of marriage. Ko Nay, a Bamar man whose wife is Shan, lives in Pyin Oo Lwin township in Mandalay Region. He said love alone cant bring together two lives for a successful marriage. He said negotiation is also important. I wont argue that love isnt important for marriage. But we shouldnt forget we have to be patient for the rest of our lives for that love. Though we can date
If you think only you are right, and only your nationality and your customs are important, therell be fights forever. Salai Aung Myint
before marriage, he said that at times listening to the Shan language becomes a challenge. They [his wife and others] speak in the Shan language, Ko Nay said.I could ignore their talking at first but later I became lonely because I cant speak it. family. If that wasnt the case, he said, they would have to deal with that the same way they talk about other issues, large or small. If we were not of the same religion, we would need to discuss it openly. Even if you dont have a very strong belief in religion, you
should discuss it openly before marriage. You can follow whatever your partner wants out of love but after marriage, you have to stay together, he said. Ma Phyo, who is married to an Australian man, agreed with Ko Nay, saying that food and language sometimes present obstacles for a married couple from different backgrounds. I can speak English well but when we quarrel I sometimes cant find an English word to match what I want to say to him. As it is not my mother tongue, I need to choose my words ahead of time, said Ma Phyo. Ma Phyo and her husband were married in 2005. The odd quarrel aside, they said, the two of them along with their two-year-old daughter have a peaceful life together. Ma Phyo believes their shared taste in food is one thing to helps them get along. He can eat Burmese curries with rice and even likes to eat mohinga or salads. But if he doesnt like some curries, he wont ask for them. Me too; when I dont like some of his meals, I dont ask for them again. But we dont complain or criticise each other, Ma Phyo said. In the kitchen or out of it, the habits of East and West can sometimes be totally different. Ma Phyo suggested that couples have to change their thoughts and learn to compromise for a peaceful life even if that means coming to terms with the fact that your partner had an independent life before the two of you met. In our Burmese custom, people used to think the first love will be until the end of life But marriage is the real commitment for life in Western countries, so its not important what happened before they were married. So we shouldnt be jealous of their expartners and shouldnt repeatedly talk what they did in past, Ma Phyo said. Learning to look ahead became especially important with the birth of their daughter, as each partner had to learn the styles of the other as they planned their future together. They [Westerners] are used to speaking out directly from their mind. But our custom is that, before we speak, we need to think and think. So we should look at all situations from both sides and talk openly about what we each want, said Ma Phyo.
These necessities of compromise lead Ma Phyo to believe that respect, patience and mutual understanding are required to build a successful married life. She said you cant marry only out of love if you dont have those things as well. We dont change each other. We have to accept who we are, Ma Phyo said. Salai Aung Myint, a Chin man who works for an NGO, has been married for five months to his Karen wife. He agreed that love is only half of whats importance in cross-cultural marriages. The most important is to keep yourself broad-minded and prepared before marriage. If you are peaceful, accepting and understanding of each other, you dont have to discuss every last detail. But if you think only you are right, and only your nationality and customs are important, therell be fights forever. He said there are many different Chin customs, so letting his wife learn about where he comes from and what he represents is important to him. But he also has to compromise. Sometimes, we have to neglect some of our customs rather than holding on to them forever. I have to understand what she wants to be so we can ask one another for our needs and wants. As we come from different cultures, we need to discuss everything, said Salai Aung Myint. Partners who speak two languages should be prepared to act as interpreters for those who dont, he said. When we visited my hometown, near the Indian border, there was some worry because she cant speak our Chin language. My relatives wanted to speak with her but I needed to translate what they said. Some felt a little sad because they wanted to be close with her. The couple attends both Karen and Chin traditional events, Salai Aung Myint added. Love plays an important part in marriage, but there cant be a fire with only a spark. Mutual understanding and negotiation from both sides will make the perfect and successful marriage life. Its a balance thats important in any marriage, cross-cultural or not. We should listen to our hearts, Salai Aung Myint suggested,but dont forget to accept the decisions of our brains.
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AW Thazin Min Khaing, managing director of the Romantic wedding planner group, has worked as a wedding planner for over two years. Ironically, she says, it wasnt a career she ever planned on. Before I started as a professional I used to help out with my friends wedding ceremonies, she said. From that moment, I become a wedding planner without any notice. Seeing her talents, one of her friends suggested she should take up wedding planning as a career. At that time, I didnt know that I could be [a wedding planner]. First I put an advert in the newspaper. At the end of 2011, I got my first client. A wedding planner is a professional who assists with the design, planning and management of a clients wedding from beginning to end. The planner also has to work with the couple to set a budget, and help out with the complicated documentation and paperwork. While a wedding only lasts a couple of hours, it serves as an important memory for the rest of the wedded couples lives. Accordingly, some couples want every detail to be perfect, and are willing to pay to have someone else take on the worry on their behalf.
A top wedding planner from Europe or the United States can earn US$120,000 a year, Daw Thazin Min Khaing says. In Myanmar the industry isnt quite so lucrative, but whether here or abroad, one certainty is that the higher the cost of the wedding, the higher the fee for the wedding planner. Daw Thazin Min Khaing pegs the average price of her clients weddings at somewhere between
K2 million and K5 million, including wedding dress, ballroom, make-up and so on. Her own fees come out to about 10 percent,
usually K200,000 but sometimes up to K500,000. But dont get the impression thats easy money, she says. When the client comes I ask what they want and how their budget is and what they want to do. And then I collect the facts and start planning a detailed checklist. There have been some instances in which brides have asked me how to lose weight. Others have asked me to serve as an usher on their wedding day. She said seating guests she doesnt know is an even trickier task than helping the bride to be comfortable with her appearance on the big day. The usher work is difficult to do for me. As a tradition, Myanmar people like to be welcomed by the people they know. As for me, I like people who know me to welcome me on their wedding day. As wedding planners, we might meet people we dont know and that makes things difficult. But I see some services advertise that they will serve as ushers. She said one foreign wedding tradition that would make seating guests easier hasnt yet caught on here. The RSVP system and a table number put in a wedding ceremony invitation card can solve the seating problem. But In Myanmar the RSVP system is
undeveloped and most invitation cards Ive seen dont show the table number. There are other differences, she said, between planners here and abroad. In foreign countries, the wedding planner sets aside a couple of hours for the client. If the time ends they charges extra as a service fee. But Myanmar planners will give more time for their clients. Still, she said, its the recent influence of foreign experience that has helped establish the role here. Parents used to arrange the wedding by themselves. They used to practise wedding traditions one generation after the next. So some of them didnt accept the wedding planner. They didnt know what the job of a wedding planner is. But by 2012, some Myanmar people who work in foreign countries were coming back to Myanmar and holding their weddings here. They didnt want to come back early [in order to arrange the wedding themselves], so they started to join up with wedding planners. Like weddings themselves, it seems, the job of the wedding planner is a mix of the old and the new. And if youre willing to break with tradition and willing to pay someone to help you do it it might just be for you.
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nder a black-andwhite framed photo of the New York skyline, a bottle of Moet & Chandon champagne cools in the private bridal salon at Tiffany & Cos flagship Shanghai store, while white roses and love poems set the mood for Chinas Romeo to pop the question to his Juliet. The room, dotted with splashes of the jewellers iconic eggshell blue, has been busy of late, as young Chinese, drawn by the allure of diamonds, increasingly choose the sparkling gems over traditional gold baubles to mark their marriage vows. Chinas diamond market, now the worlds second-largest after the United States, has more than tripled to US$22.8 billion over the last five years, according to data from market research firm Euromonitor, steadily gobbling up market share from gold and far outstripping the growth rate in Chinas 465 billion yuan ($76 billion) jewellery sector. [In China] we now have more and more young people making their declarations and proposal ceremonies within our bridal rooms, said Stephane Lafay, Tiffanys head of Asia Pacific and Japan, who said couples were
attracted to the romantic image of the jewellers well-known little blue box. At the centre of the trend are Chinas 13 million brides each year, who are increasingly demanding diamonds. All along, my husband and I always thought that we would buy a diamond ring, so it never crossed my mind he might not. I think Id have been pretty cross if he hadnt, said Zhou Lijuan, 27, an accountant in a state-owned company in Shanghai, with a 50,000 yuan ($8,200) diamond ring.
including Hong Kong, to the second-largest diamond jewellery market after the United States, according to Bain & Co, and along with India, it is expected to be the main driver of growth for the $72 billion global market. The appeal of diamonds, long linked with wedding bells in Europe and America, hasnt always been so strong in China, where the bride-to-bes family was often responsible for supplying a goldbased dowry of rings, bracelets and other trinkets. In my mums generation,
bridge effect, so when Chandler buys a diamond ring for Monica in Friends, it really left a deep impression, said Lily Cai, 30, a civil servant in Shanghai, referring to the hit US television series. A diamond ring is a symbol of love, and the larger the diamond the deeper the love, she added. She now has a diamond ring from Chinese jewellers Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group Ltd which cost
43,000 yuan. The sparkle of Chinas diamond industry has tempted jewellers, miners and dealers alike. Global auction house Sothebys is set to offer a huge white diamond in Hong Kong at the start of October, which would be the most expensive white diamond ever sold at auction if it hits its $28 million lower pre-sale target. From 2006 until now weve seen a threefold increase, close to 200pc of Asian buyers purchasing jewellery worldwide. What theyve really focused on, of course, is diamonds, said Patti Wong, chairman of Sothebys Asia, who added Chinese buyers were showing increasing confidence about snapping up the most expensive gems. De Beers, the largest diamond producer by value and majorityowned by miner Anglo American Plc, sees China as driving growth over the next four years. It has five diamond-focused outlets in China with more set to open this year. The incentive is clear. Tiffanys Lafay said over the last 20 years, the number of people buying diamond engagement rings has risen from less than 1pc to more than 50pc in urban China. More than half of the countrys 1.3 billion population now live in cities. Even traditionally gold-focused jewellers, such as Chinas Chow Tai Fook, are looking to up exposure to diamonds. The worlds biggest jewellery retailer by market value, it recently struck a deal with Russian miner AK Alrosa OAO to ensure its diamond supply. Mainland Chinese are becoming more westernised, so they tend to select diamond rings for their engagement proposal and wedding, said Chow Tai Fooks managing director Kent Wong. China will also be a critical market for Rio Tinto Plcs diamond business, after the worlds No. 3 miner scrapped a planned sale of the unit earlier this year. Rio Tinto has now set up links with Chow Tai Fook, and last week invited 100 jewellery experts in Hong Kong to see its latest diamond haul.
Reuters
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the colour of choice for bridal ensembles long before Queen Victoria popularised it in the Western world. 31. Most expensive wedding ever? The marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoums son to Princess Salama in Dubai in May 1981. The price tag? US$44 million. 32. In Korea, brides don bright hues of red and yellow to take their vows. 33. Brides carry or wear something old on their wedding day to symbolise continuity with the past. 34. In Denmark, brides and grooms traditionally cross-dressed to confuse evil spirits! 35. The something blue in a bridal ensemble symbolises purity, fidelity and love. 36. In Egypt, the brides family traditionally does all the cooking for a week after the wedding, so the couple can relax. 37. In South Africa, the parents
of both bride and groom traditionally carried fire from their hearths to light a new fire in the newlyweds hearth. 38. The tradition of a wedding cake comes from ancient Rome, where revellers broke a loaf of bread over a brides head for fertilitys sake. 39. The custom of tiered cakes emerged from a game where the bride and groom attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over. 40. Queen Victorias wedding cake weighed a whopping 300 pounds. 41. Legend says single women will dream of their future husbands if they sleep with a slice of grooms cake under their pillows. 42. An old wives tale: If the younger of two sisters marries first, the older sister must dance barefoot at the wedding or risk never landing a husband. 43. In many cultures around the
The Financial Cooperation implemented by KfW will support Myanmar in its endeavour of poverty reduction and the development of a prosperous, just and peaceful society