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Senior General Than Shwe pays homage to pagodas in Bagan-NyaungU
Yangon, 26 Jan — Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe arrived at NyaungU through Myingyan on 23 January afternoon.
On 24 January the Senior General and party paid homage to pagodas in Bagan-NyaungU.
First, the Senior General and party visited Lawkananda Tooth Relic Pagoda and offered fruits, flowers, cool water to the pagoda. The Senior General and party then inspected renovation the platform of the pagoda. The Senior General made cash donation to the fund to the pagoda. Next, the Senior General and party viewed round Lawkananda sanctuary near the pagoda. The Senior General and party went to Shwezigon Pagoda where they paid obeisance to Kokkusangum Buddha Image at Gandakuti Taik. After paying homage to the pagoda, the Senior General donated cash to the fund of the pagoda. They also visited Alodawpyae Pagoda where the Senior General donated cash.
Afterwards, the Senior General and party paid homage to Shin Arahan Brick Monastery Pagoda. The Senior General, after paying homage to the portrait of Shin Arahanthera, inspected renovation of Shin Arahan Brick Monastery Pagoda and Shin Arahanthera’s stone inscription written by bilingual Myanmar-English. Then, the Senior General and party proceeded to Arnanda Pagoda where they paid homage to Buddha images and went round the Gandakuti Taik clockwise.
The Senior General then made cash donation to the fund of the pagoda and signed in the visitors’ book.
Later the Senior General and party visited Hsinmyashin Pagoda and made cash donation.
Implementation of tasks in routine manner to be avoided Importance of effective implementation of the tasks in worksite stressed
Senior General Than Shwe meets officials of NyaungU District
Yangon, 26 Jan — Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe, yesterday morning inspected Latpanchepaw river water pumping project and cultivation of crops and greening in the project area by helicopter.
Then, Senior General Than Shwe and party arrived at Zegon Village in Ngathayauk Village-tract in NyaungU Township where they were welcomed by departmental officials, students, USDA members and local populace.
Senior-General Than Shwe and party went to Kyaukhti Pagoda and paid homage to bronze Buddha statue at the pagoda and presented cash to the Pagoda Board of Trustees for the pagoda.
Next, Senior General Than Shwe viewed the monument in honour of Martyr Bagan Bo Cho in the pagoda precinct. Then, Senior General Than Shwe saw over Myananda Lake which was dug in 11th Century AD and gave instructions on maintenance work and to fill more water from Ayeyawady River into the lake for the use of local populace.
Later, Senior General Than Shwe met with departmental officials and townselders at Bo Cho Hall of Ngathayauk Basic Education High School. Chairman of NyaungU District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Khin Maung Oo reported on agriculture, education, and health affairs of the village and construction of village-to-Village road.
Then, Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint reported on conditions of providing assistance for construction of village-to-village roads in the region between Myingyan District and NyaungU District.
After hearing reports, Senior-General Than Shwe attended to the needs including construction of new school building in Ngathayauk BEHS and sound and correct administration. The Senior General said that the state is implementing the river water pumping project to uplift the social standard of the people in the region.
He then gave guidance on effective use of conditions created by the State.
Then, the Senior General and party flew to Taungtha. Commander of No 99 Light Infantry Division Brig-Gen Aung Khin Soe, members of Mandalay Division State Peace and Development Council and departmental officials welcomed them.
Then, the Senior General and party met with departmental officials, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association, social organizations and townselders at the meeting hall of Taungtha Township Peace and Development Council Office. At the meeting, Chairman of township Peace and Development Council U Aye Pe reported to the Senior General on conditions of natural resources, irrigation facilities, cultivation of crops, efforts made for local rice sufficiency, endeavours on education, health and community peace and tranquillity and transport.
Next, Division level departmental officials reported on progress in building dams and reservoirs, flow of water into dams, irrigation and benefited areas.
Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung gave supplementary reports.
Then, the Senior General said Taungtha, Kyauktalon, Hsindewa, Welaung dams have been constructed in Taungtha Township for extended cultivation of paddy with the use of irrigation and rain water. Moreover, Kyawzi river water pumping project is being implemented. Therefore, efforts are to be made for not only local sufficiency of rice but also for increasing cultivation acreage.
He said cultivation of industrial raw material crops and export crops is to be extended. Thitseint (Bellaric Myrobalan), toddy plam, neem, tamarind trees are also to be grown.
He said implementation of the task generally is to be avoided. He stressed the importance of effective implementation of the tasks in worksite. Officials are to make field trips for irrigation in the benefited acres of the dams and to collect correct land records, he added.
He said the government has given encouragement to rural region development. It is important for officials in the state, division, district and township to work hard with goodwill. He spoke of the need to raise the standard of education and health in their township.
Senior General Than Shwe and party toured Taungtha. They were welcomed by teachers, students, members of USDA, social organizations and local people.
Senior General Than Shwe and party went to Popa in Kyaukpadaung Township by helicopter. They were welcomed by Minister for Forestry U Aung Phone, Brig-Gen Than Tun of Kyaukpadaung Station and officials.
Senior General Than Shwe and party inspected medicinal herbal plantation in Popa Garden. Forest Department grows over 350 kinds of herbal plants in the garden.
Senior General Than Shwe and party viewed the Popa Taungkalat and its environs. Senior General Than Shwe and party heard report on herbal plants, roots and traditional medicines by Minister for Forestry U Aung Phone.
Senior General Than Shwe and party went to Popa Mountain Resort and inspected bungalows there.
Minister U Aung Phone reported on greening of the eastern part of Mt Popa with the aid of photos. He said the Ministry is making endeavours for thriving of banana substitute perennial plants. Forest Department grew teak, Pyinkadoe and Yinmar and banana growers grew perennial plants such as cashew, mangoes, pineapple and tamarind. They earned income from them. Altogether 1.8 million plants were grown in the east of Popa from 1996 to 2000.
Minister U Aung Phone also reported on construction of Popa Mountain Resort, arrival of tourists and local travellers, income, growing of 800 flower plants, cultivation of coffee and strawberry and 100,000 Thitseint trees (Bellaric Myrobalan). Senior General Than Shwe then gave guidance. Senior General Than Shwe and party arrived at Bagan-Nyaung Oo.
This morning, Senior General Than Shwe and party met with the chairmen and members of NyaungU District and Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental officials and members of USDA and social organizations at Anawrahta Hall in NyaungU.
NyaungU District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Khin Maung Oo reported to the Senior General and party on area of the district, population, land resource, cultivation of paddy, beans and pulses, edible oil crops and cotton, yield of crops, endeavours for rice sufficiency in the region, sufficiency in edible oil, poultry farming, efforts for development of the livestock breeding sector, the value in production and services of the district, per capita income, education, health, transport, rural development tasks, the visit of tourists to Bagan-NyaungU and renovation of ancient pagodas. Then, officials concerned reported to the Head of State on the education, health and livestock breeding sectors. Lt-Gen Ye Myint, Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint and Ministers Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin and U Aung Thaung made supplementary reports. In giving guidance, the Senior General said that with the aim of making systematic arrangements for the visit of tourists to Bagan-NyaungU region, coordinating with other world cultural sites and conducting regional development tasks, NyaugU Township was upgraded into the district level. Officials concerned are to strive for the development of NyaungU Special District. As there are only 218 villages in the district, it is in a favourable position to make efforts effectively for the development of urban as well as rural areas, he said. The Head of State continued to say that Lawkananda Water Pumping Project, Letpanchaypaw Water Pumping Project and Ngathayauk Water Pumping Project are being implemented. Therefore, extended cultivation of paddy is a must for rice sufficiency in the region. The State, on its part, will continue to implement other water pumping projects as much as it can, he elaborated. He said it is important to strive for food sufficiency by making efforts for extended cultivation and boosting per acre yield. It also needs to cultivate more crops such as cotton, beans and pulses and edible oil crops. To be able to develop the livestock breeding sector to be on a par with the agriculture sector, emphasis should be paid on development of local poultry farming. The Head of State also spoke of the need to make field trips by district and township responsible personnel for ensuring the development of NyaungU and Bagan and its surrounding areas as well as the whole district. In making field trips, plans are to be made for uniform patterns of inspections of wards and villages, he stressed. The Head of State said efforts are being made to be able to hand down good heritage for the posterity. He urged the district and township officials to strive for the success of respective projects and development of respective regions. Afterwards, Senior General Than Shwe cordially greeted those present. After the ceremony, the Senior General inspected the archaeological museum where Director-General U Nyunt Han of Archaeo-logical Department reported on collection of antiques, local and foreign tourist arrival, the visit of tourists to Bagan Ancient Cultural Region and income of foreign exchange. In response to the report, Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance, saying that efforts are to be made to establish the museum that reflects the social life of an era since the museum is not the one confined to the kings’ history of Bagan era. Not only the mode of dress and way of life of Myanmar kings in Bagan era but also that of all strata of life are to be shown through painting and relief at the museum, he said and stressed that the museum will become prominent and significant only then the social life of Bagan era and antiques are shown.
Then, Senior General Than Shwe signed in the visitors’ book of Bagan Archaeo-logical Museum. Next, Senior General Than Shwe and party heard reports presented by officials on votive tablet, Buddha Statue with headdress bronze Buddha Statue, sand-stone Buddha Statute and wooden Buddha Statue and the throne sculpture depicting orgre, dragon and lion found in the renovation of the pagoda. Afterwards, Senior General Than Shwe and party inspected booths on scale model of Ancient Myanmar kings’ palace and literature of Bagan era. Then, Senior General Than Shwe and party inspected paintings reflecting society in Bagan era and those of military affairs booth. Later, Senior General Than Shwe inspected the main booth and fulfilled the needs. Then, Senior General Than Shwe and party viewed round NyaungU by car.
Next, Senior General Than Shwe and party left there by Tatmadaw aircraft and arrived back here in the evening. Senior General Than Shwe made an eight-day tour of PyinOoLwin, Thabeikkyin, Ngazun, Myingyan, NyaungU, Taungtha and Kyaukpa-daung in Mandalay Division and made a field trip right down to villages in some townships. Senior General Than Shwe during his tour inspected Yeywa Hydel Power Project, dams and river water pumping projects, construction projects, rural and urban development and attended to the needs. He also met with district and township level departmental officials and local authorities and gave instructions on development of economic, education, health and communication sectors, community peace and tranquillity and regional development. He also called on officials to cultivate new crops suitable to their regions, to enhance the living standard of the people with combined economic development and human resources development and to compile the accurate data sectorwise. Senior General Than Shwe also inspected construction of Shweli Bridge linking Katha Township of Sagaing Division and Mabein Township of Shan State (North). USDA Secretary U Aung Thaung who accompanied Senior General Than Shwe met with USDA secretaries, executives and organizers of NyaungU District and NyaungU Township USDAs at the NyaungU Township USDA’s Office on 24 January morning and gave instructions. Then, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung inspected Winthuza Shop in NyaungU.
Secretary-1 attends ceremony to hoist Shwehtidaw atop and enshrine objects in upper reliquary of Maha Panthu Theingi Pagoda in Panhsang (Pankham)
First, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Muninda administered the Nine Precepts. Then, the Secretary-1 offered the gold Zedi and Gotama Buddha image donated by Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Commander-in-Chief (Army) Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San and family, offertories and Pitakat treatises to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Muninda. Next, Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing, national race leader U Pau Yu Chan donated Kakusandha Buddha image, Konnagamana Buddha image and Kassapa Buddha image and provisions to the Sayadaw. Likewise, the ministers, national race leaders and wellwishers offered provisions to the members of the Sangha. Afterwards, member of the State Central Working Committee of the Sangha Lashio Yanaungmyin Kyaungtaik Presiding Nayaka Sayadaw Maha Ganthavaçaka Pandita Bhaddanta Viççita delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits.
Then, the enshrinement and Seinbudaw and Hngetmyatnadaw hoisting ceremony followed. The Secretary-1 and party conveyed the Seinbudaw and the Hngetmyatnadaw onto the decorated carriage and sprinkled scented water on them.
At the auspicious time, the Secretary-1 fixed the Hngetmyatnadaw and the Seinbudaw atop the Htidaw of the pagoda. Then, the General placed the gold Zedi, Gotama Buddha image, Shin Sakkosara Dhammazedi silver casket and gold Bodhi tree into the eastern part of upper reliquary. Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt placed Kakusandha Buddha image, Shin Upagutta Dhammazedi silver casket and gold Bodhi tree into the southern part of reliquary. The commander also kept Konnagamana Buddha image, Shin Medhara Dhammazedi silver casket and gold Bodhi tree into the western part of the reliquary. National race leader U Pau Yu Chan placed Kassapa Buddha image, Shin Saradatta Dhammazedi silver casket and gold Bodhi tree into the northern part of the reliquary. Later, lay persons closed the reliquary. Teingyar U Than Hla shared merits gained. The Secretary-1 performed rituals of golden and silvery showers to mark the successful completion of the ceremony.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party and U Pau Yu Chan planted Maha Bodhi tree donated by Vice-Senior General Maung Aye and wife Daw Mya Mya San and family.
Next, they sprinkled scented water on the banner post and the stone inscription of the pagoda. Then, the General and party and national race leaders offered Shwekyar robes to the Buddha images at Gandakuti Taik of the pagoda.
Then, the bell was beaten for three times by the Secretary-1 and party and national race leaders, marking successful completion of the ceremony. Afterwards, the ceremony concluded with three-time recitation of Buddha Sasanam Ciram Titthatu.
Government designates uplift of health standard as one of social objectives of the nation and accorded high priority to health sector
Protection of water sources and practising hygienic behaviour will be main points to be carried out with great momentum
Sixth National Sanitation Week 2003 launched
Yangon, 26 Jan — The inauguration ceremony of the Sixth National Sanitation Week 2003 was held at the hall of Institute of Nursing (Yangon) on Bogyoke Aung San Street this morning, attended by Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt. First, the Secretary-1 delivered an address. He said: It gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity to deliver an opening address at the inauguration ceremony of this Sixth National Sanitation Week. At the outset, may I wish all those present here to be blessed with physical and spiritual well-being.
As goes the saying “Arojam Paraman Labhan”, we in Myanmar consider good health as one of the blessings in life. Therefore, our Government has designated the uplift of health standards as one of the social objectives of the nation and accorded high priority to the health sector. As a result, there have been significant advances in the field of health during the time of our Government. In 1988, there were only 631 hospitals in the whole country. This number has now increased to 765, signifying an increase of 13 new hospitals. Moreover, 104 existing hospitals have been upgraded through expansion of hospital beds and rendering of medical facilities. Medical services are now available in areas where previously there were none existed. In 1988, there were only 8 hospitals and 6 dispensaries in the whole of border areas. Today, 50 hospitals and 83 dispensaries are established to meet the health needs of the national brethren. Similarly, no Rural Health Centres existed before the time of our Government. Today, 29 Rural Health Centres and 41 Sub-Centres are offering primary health care where there had been none. With the emergence of 24 special development zones, there will be specialist hospitals with modern equipment all over the nation.
Like other developing nations. Myanmar has to face the challenge posed by communicable and non-communicable diseases. Two common communicable diseases are diarrhoea and dysentery, and they are particularly prevalent in rural areas. An analysis of the situation shows that lack of sanitary conditions is one of the contributing factors.
Therefore, to improve sanitation standards, the First National Sanitation Week was launched successfully in 1998. According to the 1997 data before the First National Sanitation Week, the sanitary work coverage was 39% for rural and 64.5% for urban and 45.7% for both rural and urban. The efforts of the First National Sanitation Week increased the coverage to 60% of the country’s population. After the Fifth Sanitation Week that was launched last year, sanitation coverage was reported as 89%.
Therefore compared to the period before the implementation of the sanitation weeks, it can be seen that the sanitation coverage of the country has nearly doubled from 46% to 89% of the population.
This nation-wide success achieved within such a short period, was internationally recognized and appreciated by all, including members of the South East Asian Region countries. Delegations from various countries had come to Myanmar to observe our activities of the National Sanitation Weeks. The sharing of experience among each other had proved to be very fruitful for all.
After reviewing our activities, it can be said that the success of the National Sanitation Weeks is due to the collaborative and united efforts of the administrative authorities at all levels, related government ministries, officials concerned, NGOs and the community which have activities participated in the nation-wide movement under the guidance of the National Health Committee.
The Sixth National Sanitation Week that is being launched today is aimed at the implementation of sanitary work by each and every family in the country by the end of the year 2003. I have full confidence that we will achieve the target of 100% sanitary work coverage as we have gained very valuable experiences from the previous activities.
With the rapid development of urbanization, safe water supply has also become a critical factor to take care of. Unsafe water sources can be the source of major disease outbreaks which can challenge the lives of many people, especially the young children. Therefore, protection of safe water sources and maintenance of water qualities is vital for all of us when we are building a modern nation.
Therefore, protection of water sources and practising hygienic behaviour will be the main points to be carried out with great momentum during this Sixth National Sanitation Week. I would like to urge the community to improve the drinking quality by improving or constructing at least one water source during this week. By improving the quality of drinking water, we will be able to improve our living standards in building a developed nation.
What is significant in Myanmar is that the people participate enthusiastically in obtaining safe and clean water in areas where water is scare. Myanmar people who are Buddhists and believe that when one offers water one receives the 10 merits of offering water without requesting, regard offering water as a noble act and enthusiastically offer water.
Therefore, in the dry zone and delta region where safe water is scare, the efforts made by the Government together with the participation of the people in obtaining safe and clean water from underground is very successful.
I wish to state that, for the health of the entire nation we shall continue to carry out as a national duty, the tasks of obtaining safe and clean water and a clean environment throughout the nation.
More than that, I would like to emphasize the importance of reporting and updating the information regarding to sanitary work coverage levels to update that information and to report to the National Sanitation Committee at central level. These data are essential in order to monitor and supervise the activities carefully and also to plan for further activities. Concerned department should share relevant information with each other.
In conclusion, I would like to emphasize again that the goal for the year 2003 is to attain 100% coverage. Only then, will there be a reduction in communicable diseases mainly diarrhoea diseases, leading to a healthy and productive community. To achieve this goal, each and everyone, including multi-sectoral government departments and non-governmental organizations should make a concerted effort and undertake to carry out sanitation programmes as a national endeavour. I am confident that the Sixth National Sanitation Week activities will result in great success.
Then, UNICEF Resident Representative Mr J Bertrand Mendis gave a speech.
Next, the Secretary-1 presented first, second and third prizes to Maung Pyi Sone Win of Pathein Basic Education High School No 2, Ma Phoo Pwint Thinza Phyo of Mawlamyine BEHS No 8 and Ma Mya Thin Naing of Tamway BEHS No 4 in the basic education high school level essay contest to mark the Sixth National Sanitation Week 2003; first, second and third prizes to Ma April Tun of Pathein BEHS No 2, Ma Phyo Myat Myat Aung of Myeik BEHS No 1 and Ma May Thwe Tun of Lanmadaw BEHS No 2 in the middle school level essay contest.
After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party and guests viewed the booths at the Exhibition to mark the Sixth National Sanitation Week at the hall of the Institute of Nursing (Yangon).
Secretary-1 addresses opening ceremony of Myanmar Health Research Conference
Yangon, 26 Jan—A ceremony to open Myanmar Health Research Conference of the Ministry of Health took place at the meeting hall of the Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) on Ziwaka Street in Dagon Township here at this afternoon with an address by Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt said that the Government at present placed emphasis on development of medical science in Myanmar in accord with the time and uplift of the quality of health care services for the people. In the process, exchange of new information among the health researchers will contribute much to the successful implementation of the health objectives, he noted.
The State Peace and Development Council, after laying down the systematic plans sector-wise, has been making all-out efforts to enable the nation to keep abreast with the nations of the world. Steps are being taken for development of the health sector. Thus, priority is being given to mutual benefit of national development and health and fitness of the people.
Requirements are being fulfilled for development of medical science, emergence of highly-qualified human resources in health sector, advanced diagnosis, prevention, development of therapy and treatment and installation of medical equipment in accord with the time, he elaborated.
Efforts are also being made for rapid development of health research that will effectively contribute to realization of the health objectives of the State after laying down a national policy. In addition, arrangements have been made for the emergence of the research infrastructure including modern laboratory where research can be conducted in the institutes of medicine and the health related universities, he stressed. At the same time, more and more post-graduate courses including master and doctorate courses are being opened, thereby further contributing to development of health research.
Now the Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) and the Medical Research Department (Upper Myanmar) have been formed and work is well underway for opening of the Medical Research Department (Central Myanmar) in the very near future.
In accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe priority is being given to research on traditional medicine capable of curing the six main diseases. More efforts will have to be made in conducting basic research and applied (clinical) research in addition to research on traditional medicine for effective treatment of malaria and TB.
As haematological research branch and poison control research branch emerged research of international level need to be widely conducted, he said.
He called on the researchers, faculty members of the institutes of medicine and medical students, experts and technicians of health sectors and project managers of the health care service projects to make concerted and collective efforts for development of the basic research, the applied (clinical) research, the applied (public health) research and the action-cum-research in every health sector.
While striving for boosting the health care services of the people, researches that contribute to the health sector for development of border areas and national races, rural development tasks, maternal and child welfare activities and drug abuse and HIV/AIDS control activities are to be widely conducted, he noted.
Research work needs to be extended in anticipation of health problem which is to emerge together with high living standard of the people and social development. Moreover, the health researchers are to make efforts for development of health sector in accord with the national requirements while conducting the health research. The Government has been making energetic efforts for development of health research with the conviction that effort for development of health sector is a social investment that will benefit the entire national people in the long run and the health research is an investment in the related field that will contribute to development of health sector in the long run. The researchers are to widely conduct health research that will be beneficial to the national interest and the entire people by effective use of health research infrastructure. Arrangements are being made to hold symposia on disease and medical science, demonstration of medical equipment by medical companies and the Technology Week in the paper-reading session on health research to be held this year. Therefore, it is expected that the researchers will create the fruitful results that will be beneficial to the national interest.
In conclusion, he called on officials of the medical field to conduct research for boosting national health level, medical science standard and public health care service; to strive for development of research of international level that will contribute to national interest with national outlook; and to innovate the research suitable to the nation in combination with research on modern medical science and medical science of international level in accord with the time.
After the opening ceremony, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and guests viewed round posters on health, booths of medical companies and traditional medicines.
The paper-reading session on health research conference will be held from 27 to 31 January. The resource persons will present 71 papers at the session.
Region
Lt-Gen Soe Win tours Hinthada, Pathein
Yangon, 26 Jan — Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win of the Ministry of Defence met with members of USDA, social organizations and local people at the city hall in Hinthada on 23 January morning. Chairman of Hinthada District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Maung Pyone reported on regional development tasks.
Then, Lt-Gen Soe Win delivered an address. He said that development tasks are being carried out in the State including border areas. Similarly, five rural development tasks are also being undertaken. The people in Ayeyawady Division enjoy development of transportation, economic and social affairs though there was poor transport in the past. In addition, the industrial zone has been established in Hinthada for development of industrial sector. Likewise, four universities/colleges including Hinthada Government Technical College and Government Computer College have been opened. With regard to the health sector, community health care services were upgraded and rural communication camps were extended. USDA members, social organizations and local people are urged to cooperate in the development of peace and stability in the regions. Then, Lt-Gen Soe Win viewed, various machines manufactured from Hinthada Industrial Zone and inspected the library.
Lt-Gen Soe Win met with members of USDA and social organizations and local people at the city hall in Pathein on 24 January. Chairman of Pathein District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Hla Thwin reported on facts about the region and development tasks. Lt-Gen Soe Win explained development of the State. Then, he cordially conversed with the local people. Next, Lt-Gen Soe Win and party went to paddy husk-fired engine factory. In-charge of the factory Maj Aung Naing reported on matters related to the factory.
Dry Day inspection teams discharge duties
Yangon, 26 Jan — Chairman of Dry Day Supervisory Committee Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman’s Office Lt-Gen Min Thein, Chairman of Traffic Rules Enforcement Committee Vice-Adjutant General Maj-Gen Maung Nyo and committee members, divided into two groups supervised the Dry Day inspection teams discharging duties today.
The teams comprising members of Provost Units and Traffic Police Force, checked Tatmadaw and departmental vehicles with Dry Day Pass, driver licence and wheel tax and wearing of department uniforms at the main points in the city from 6 am to 6 pm.
The inspection teams checked not only the depart-mental vehicles used on the dry day but also those vio-lating traffic rules.
USDA Secretary inspects school building construction
Yangon, 26 Jan — Secretary of Union Solidarity and Development Association Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan inspected progress of two-storey school building donated by Benhur Trading Co Ltd at No 2 Basic Education High School, Hlinethaya Township, this morning.
Managing Director of Benhur Trading Co Ltd U Kyaw Aung and officials reported on progress of work to Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan. The USDA Secretary also inspected preparations for multimedia classrooms and training of stundents and attended to the needs.
International Relations
Ambassador U Tin Latt accredited to Nigeria
Yangon, 26 Jan — The Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council of the Union of Myanmar has appointed U Tin Latt, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Union of Myanmar to the Republic of South Africa, concurrently as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Union of Myanmar to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Yangon, 26 Jan — Minister for Hotels and Tourism Brig-Gen Thein Zaw arrived back here by air this afternoon after attending the 6th ASEAN Tourism Ministers’ Meeting, the 2nd ASEAN + China, Japan and Korea ministers’ meeting and ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF-2003) held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. He was welcomed back at Yangon International Airport by Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman’s Office Brig-Gen Abel, Minister for Cooperatives Lt-Gen Tin Ngwe, H & T Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Aye Myint Kyu, Ambassador of Cambodia to Myanmar Mr Nim Chantara and officials. Director-General of the Directorate of Hotels and Tourism U Khin Maung Latt, Director Daw Nyunt Nyunt Than, Deputy Director U Myo Lwin and Assistant Director Daw Kyi Kyi Aye also arrived back on the same flight.
Yangon, 26 Jan — Under the arrangement made by Insight Myanmar Tourism Co Ltd, cruiseliner “Seabourn Spirit” with 174 tourists on board arrived at Nanthida jetty this morning.
In two groups, the tourists will tour Yangon, Bagan and Bago on 27 January.
Information Technology
Yangon, 26 Jan — As of 25 January the global Internet network has been blocked and Internet and email uses were sluggish and interrupted for hours on account of rapidly spreading of a new computer virus. This affected computer networks in Asia, Europe and America. According to the experts, it is the most intensive attack during the past 18 months. As the computer network being interrupted, services linking the Internet met difficulty in downloading. It is estimated that this occurrence will go on till 27 January.
The origin of the virus or worm is yet unknown and it is generally accepted that it was due to the virus named SQL Slammer. The attack is mainly aimed at computer servers using SQL software of Microsoft Corporation, which is the giant in the world software market. In America about 150,000 to 200,000 computer servers have been affected by the virus. Unlike the previous e-mail virus which attacked desktop computers, this worm only attacked with the aim of causing the delay in downloading. Especially, websites in Korea and America’s banks were affected and web accesses in the whole world were delayed, according to the source from Myanmar Computer Federation.
Yangon, 26 Jan — The workshops of the Second Myanmar Information and Communication Technology Week continued at the MICT Park in Hline Universities’ Campus in Hline Township today. The e-Procurement Workshop was held for final day at Room 205 in MICT Park this morning. Present were departmental officials of ministries concerned, officials of Myanmar Computer Federation and IT companies and Vice President Mr Ringo of Commerce Dot Com Co Ltd and party of Malaysia.
They discussed direct purchase, tender system and quotation, IT of Myanmar to be on a par with ASEAN countries, decisions made for implementation of e-Procurement System and drawing of the system design. The IT Engineering Exam of Myanmar-Japan Crossing Certificate, co-organized by e-National Task Force and Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, was held today. Altogether 136 persons took the exam, supervised by professors of University of Computer Studies, President of Myanmar Computer Federation U Thein Oo, Chairman of Computer Scientists Association U Thaung Tin and officials, Mr Suzuki and Mr Kaji and party of METI of Japan. Those who passed the exam will receive the certificate jointly presented by Myanmar and Japan organizations and got a chance of career on IT engineering in Myanmar and Japan.
Third destruction of seized narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and poppy held in Lashio
82,699.75 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 135048.69 kilos destroyed in Lashio
Yangon, 26 Jan— The third ceremony to destroy narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and poppy seeds seized in Shan State (North) organized by Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control, was held at the sports ground in Lashio, Shan State (North) on 25 January, attended by Chairman of Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
Members of Lashio Township USDA Daw Than Than Htay and Daw Shwe Aye acted as masters of ceremonies.
First, Chairman of Shan State (North) Peace and Development Council Commander of North-East Command Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing delivered a speech. He said in Shan State (North) narcotic drug elimination task was carried out with added momentum. In 2002, efforts were made for destruction of poppy bulbs and seeds before cultivation. Due to the cooperation of the people, organization of national race leaders with genuine goodwill, poppy growers handed over their poppy seeds. That leads to total elimination of growing poppy.
Narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and paraphernalia including 46,681 pyis of dried poppy bulbs weighing 76,230 kilos, 50,755 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 82,883 kilos, 249 kilos of raw opium and 105 kilos of morphine were destroyed in Lashio on 7-6-2002; narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and paraphernalia including 672 pyis of dried poppy bulbs weighing 1,097 kilos, 8,064 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 13,168 kilos, 94.71 kilos of raw opium, 124.13 kilos of stimulant tablets and 10 kilos of Ephedrine in Laukkai on 8-6-2002 and narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and paraphernalia including 35,256 pyis of dried poppy bulbs weighing 57,573 kilos, 2,712.5 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 4,429 kilos, 44.87 kilos of heroin, 383.18 kilos of raw opium, 10.7 kilos stimulant tablets and 115 kilos of Ephedrine in Lashio on 25-10-2002 in the presence of the high-ranking officials and diplomats.
A total of 82,183.75 pyis of poppy seeds and dried poppy bulbs weighing 134,205 kilos that would be grown on over 82183 acres of land and production of 361 tons of raw opium or over 36 tons of heroin has been prevented.
Maize seeds were distributed to the farmers as opium substitute crops in accord with the guidance of the Head of State and under the arrangements of the military command, respective State Peace and Development Councils and the ministries. Distribution of high yield paddy and groundnuts including establishment of pigeon pea, soybean, tea and coffee plantations in high lands was carried out for increased income of farmers and improvement of their living standard.
Similarly, arrangements are being made for raising of pigs and layers and beekeeping on commercial scale at central breeding farms. Distribution of techniques and pedigrees of animals to national race organizations and rural people is now under way.
At the ceremony, 92 items of narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and paraphernalia including 516 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 842.63 kilos, 141.45 kilos of heroin, 100.85 kilos of morphine, 368.57 kilos of raw opium, 71.63 litres of opium liquid, 555.18 kilos of stimulant tablets, 204.90 kilos of Ephedrine, 32.62 kilos of Pseudo-ephedrine, 11,786 litres of chemical liquid and 842.26 kilos of chemical powder will be destroyed.
The commander assured that there is no poppy cultivation in the regions in the east of Thanlwin River in Shan State (North) due to participation of national race leaders who realized the genuine goodwill of the Head of State and implementation of the tasks with greater momentum hand in hand with the Tatmadaw and the people based on metta and cetena in the interest of the entire people. There are only a few regions in the east of Thanlwin River where poppy is grown. Continued efforts are to be made for total elimination of poppy cultivation in those regions.
He expressed thanks to the high-ranking officials and guests for attending the ceremony. Continued efforts are to be made for total elimination of poppy cultivation in Shan State. Next, Chairman of CCDAC Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing said similar ceremonies were held on 7 June and on 25 October 2002 in Lashio respectively. It was the third time held in Lashio.
On 8 June 2002 a similar ceremony was held in Laukkai. The ceremony to destroy narcotic drugs has been held for four times in Shan State (North).
A similar ceremony was held once in Kayah State in 2002, twice in Shan State (South), once in Shan State (East) and once in Kachin State. Holding of such ceremonies is the result of active cooperation of the government, national race leaders and local people in fighting against narcotic drugs.
Myanmar has been implementing the 15-year drug elimination project. As part of the project, the New Destiny Project was undertaken in five States beginning April 2002.
Myanmar does not undertake the drug elimination task only through law enforcement channel. The Head of State laid down the strategies, tactics and methods of changing and improving morale of the local people who grow poppy, raising socio-economic life, earning increased income and providing assistance to regional development. Myanmar implemented the project in accord with these.
The commanders themselves actively participated in the project for success. According to the New Destiny Project, the respective State Peace and Development Councils made arrangements for conducting education talks on cultivation of opium substitute crops, distribution of suitable crops and animals, provision of money and other food supplies. After realizing the goodwill of the State, the poppy growers handed over poppy seeds of their own volition.
As a result of the New Destiny Project, region-wise destruction of poppy seeds and dried poppy bulbs was held. It was a unique significant, practical effort in the history of drug elimination project. Now the poppy growers themselves realize danger and evil of narcotic drugs and their knowledge and concept have also changed.
There are altogether 82,699.75 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 135,048.69 kilos including 516 pyis of poppy seeds to be destroyed at the ceremony. Such quantity of poppy seeds that would be grown on over 82,699 acres (over 33,468 hectares) of land has been prevented.
Local people with strong belief and concept participated in poppy cultivation prevention project and anti-drug activities. Therefore, drug problem threatening the mankind will not exist on Myanma soil forever soon.
The minister called on national people to strive for total elimination of drugs including poppy cultivation in Kokang and Wa regions in 2005 under the leadership of the government.
The Secretary-1 and party, guests and national race leaders viewed the seized drugs, poppy seeds, precursor chemicals to be destroyed in the sports ground.
The Secretary-1, member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Aung Htwe, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing, the ministers, national race leaders who returned to the legal fold took positions at the designated place and pressed the buttons to set fire to the drugs.
USDA members, social organizations members, students and local people took part in the destruction.
The drugs destroyed at the ceremony were 842.63 kilos of poppy seeds, 141.45938 kilos of heroin, 368.57609 kilos of raw opium, 100.85 kilos of morphine powder, 555.1893 kilos of stimulant tablets, 2.14847 kilos of opium oil solid, 71.63 litres of opium liquid, 6.72907 kilos of law-grade opium, 22.7 litres of sulphuric acid, 460 litres of ethyl alcohol, 54.4 litres of acetic anhydride, 90.8 litres of acetone liquid, 32 litres of phosphorus acid, five kilos of sodium chloride, 450 kilos of sodium carbonate, 107 kilos of ammonium chloric, 5,502 litres of Lysol, 24 litres of hydrochloric acid, 1,216 litres of ebar, 32.62 kilos of budi ephedrine, 204.9 kilos of ephedrine powder, six kilos of fragrance powder, 40.7586 kilos of opium sediment, 40 litres mixture of opium and Lysol, 458.9 litres mixture of raw opium and acid, two litres mixture of acid and morphine, 3,295 litres mixture of acid and alcohol and other paraphernalia.
At the ceremony, 516 pyis of poppy seeds weighing 842.63 kilos were destroyed. In this way, such quantities of seeds that would be grown over 526 acres of land or 208.82 hectare of land and production of opium 2,270.4 kilos (2.27 tons) or 227.04 kilos of heroin (0.227 ton) have been prevented.
Yangon, 26 Jan — A combined team comprising members of local intelligence unit and Mandalay Anti-Drug Squad, acting on a tip-off, searched the house of Soe U Tar, 26, son of U Paw Oo of Cherry Road, Thirimingala Ward, Meiktila, on 5 January, 2002, and seized 439.13 grams of marijuana. In connection with the case, No 1 Police Force Station, Meiktila, filed him under Section 15/19 (A) of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law.
On 26 December, Meiktila District Court sentenced him to five years’ imprisonment under section 15 and 15 years’ imprisonment under section 19 (A) to serve separately.
