Secretary-1 attends opening of OG ward at Lashio General Hospital, Lonni Tin Smelting Plant in Longhtan
Yangon, 27 Jan — Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the opening ceremony of Obstetrics and Gynecology ward of Lashio General Hospital, Shan State (North), on 25 January morning.
First, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing, Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein and Asia World Co Ltd Managing Director U Tun Myint Naing formally opened the ward. Then, the Secretary-1 unveiled the signboard of the ward.
Next, the opening ceremony of the Obstetrics and Gynecological Ward was held at the hall of the hospital. At the ceremony, Medical Superintendent Dr Khin Maung Wa reported that necessary buildings possessing hospital characteristics were extended in the period of the State Peace and Development Council.
The new operation theatre built at a cost of K 43.7 million was opened on 3 March 1999. Similarly, construction of the two-storey operation theatre and OG ward was completed. It cost K 58.7 million. The two-storey building and the corridor, constructed at a cost of K 11.9 million, between the operation theatre and the operation ward was completed on 31 March 2002.
The two-storey OG ward, 182 feet long and 50 feet wide, was built of reinforced concrete. A total of 54 beds can be placed together with eight special rooms upstairs and 54 beds, eight special rooms and one room for the patients who are suffering from pregnancy toxemia downstairs. Estimated expenditure for the ward is K 237.16 million.
Asia World Co Ltd Managing Director U Tun Myint Naing handed over documents related to the maternity ward to Medical Superintendent Dr Khin Maung Wa.
Then, U Tun Myint Naing presented commemorative pennants to Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party.
The Secretary-1 and party then visited the new maternity ward.
Next, the Secretary-1 and party inspected arrangements for construction of the corridor to link the maternity ward and the delivery operation theatre. Asia World Co Ltd Managing Director U Tun Myint Naing reported on preparations for construction works. The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions.
Afterwards, Chairman of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party attended the third destruction ceremony of narcotic drugs, precursor chemicals and poppy seeds seized from Shan State (North) at the sports grounds in Lashio on 25 January morning.
After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party inspected high yield Hsinshweli paddy field in Humon region, Lashio. First, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing reported on boosting of per-acre yield for local sufficiency of rice, cultivation of 56,000 acres of monsoon paddy in the last rainy season, arrangements for extended cultivation of 100,000 acres of monsoon paddy in the coming rainy season and 18,000 acres of summer paddy cultivated this year including 100 acres of summer paddy of Shan State (North) Police Force, 100 acres of Shan State (North) Development Affairs Department, Customs Department and Shan State (North) USDA and 50 acres of Lashio Station.
Then, Additional Shan State Police Commander Police Col Win Naing reported on cultivation of high yield Hsinshweli paddy strain on 100 acres of land.
The Secretary-1 and party inspected thriving of Hsinshweli paddy strain.
Next, they arrived at high yield Hsinshweli summer paddy farm in Manhsu region in Lashio.
Shan State (North) USDA Secretary U Aye Thaung and Shan State Myanma Agriculture Service Manager U Hla Gyi reported on cultivation of Hsinshweli paddy strain in 100 acres of land, summer paddy cultivation in Shan State (North), climate and thriving of paddy. The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions. Then, the Secretary-1 and party inspected 100 acres of Hsinshweli paddy field.
Afterwards, the General and party proceeded to 560 acres of highland reclamation project for Thitseint (Belleric myrobalan), coffee, groundnut and pigeon pea in Hsunkwe Village, Lashio Township. They inspected the opium-substitute cold season groundnut plantation.
Officials reported on the highland reclamation project and water supply for the highland farmland. Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Brig-Gen Khin Maung gave a supplementary report.
The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions and inspected 560 acres of model highland farmland.
Next, the Secretary-1 and party arrived in Panhsang (Pankham) of Tangyan Township, where they were welcomed by Tactical Operations Commander Col Khin Maung Myint, Shan State (North) Special Region-2 national race leader U Pau Yu Chan, national race leaders and local people.
Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party attended the ceremony to enshrine religious objects to the upper reliquary of Maha Panthutheingi Pagoda, hoist the Htidaw and offer Shwekyar Thingan at the pagoda in Panhsang (Pankham) at 11 am.
After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at Basic Education High School in Panhsang (Pankham) where they were welcomed by Headmistress Daw Thaung Thaung Win and teachers. The Secretary-1 cordially conversed with the teachers and attended to their needs.
Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Lonhtan region of Shan State (North) Special Region-2. They were welcomed by Tactical Operations Commander Col Sein Win, national race leaders U Shauk Min Hlyan, U Pau Hwa Chan and U Pau Yu Chan and local people.
Next, the ceremony to open Lonni Tin Smelting Plant in Lonhtan region was held at the plant in the afternoon, attended by Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party, Shan State (North) Special Region-2 national race leader U Pau Yu Chan and national race leaders, in-charge of the plant U Pau Ngo Hswe and staff and local people. At the opening ceremony, the band played the national anthem.
Then, the Secretary-1 delivered an address.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary-1 said that it was a great pleasure to have the opportunity to attend the opening ceremony of Lonnin Tin Smelting Plant in Lonhtan Region of the Special Region-2, Shan State (North) at the invitation of Wa national race leader U Pauk Yu Chan and Wa national races.
It was gratifying, for the emergence of the Tin Smelting Plant, a business, that will contribute much to economic development of Wa region, he noted.
The emergence of a business will lead to development of Wa region as well as development of the whole country. The plant can be built in Wa region due to prevalence of peace and tranquillity in the Union and flourishing of the unity among the national brethren, he elaborated.
All the national brethren are born of the same family in the Union. If they have been safeguarding the Union for its perpetuation in unity, the Union will develop more and more and stand tall perpetually among the nations of the world.
The Wa region is at present making significant progress in comparison with the past. With better transport poppy substitute farming is meeting with success in the region. With the emergence of the economic infrastructure the living standard of the local people becomes higher and higher. All the development is the fruitful results of the prevalence of peace and tranquillity in Wa region.
This morning also Mahapanthu Theingi Pagoda was built in Panhsang (a) Pankham and Shwehtidaw was hoisted atop it. With the emergence of the pagoda it is believed that peace and tranquillity will prevail more and more in Wa region and the socio-economy of the region will improve. The Government is always placing emphasis on development of Wa region and necessary assistance has been provided to the region, he stressed. He called on the national brethren who reside in the Union through thick and thin to make collective and collaborative efforts for the perpetuation of the Union.
On behalf of national race leader U Pau Yu Chan, U Shauk Min Hlyan spoke words of thanks. Next, plant in-charge U Pau Ngo Hswe reported on facts about the plant. Then, Longhtan region national race leader U Nyi Bala and plant in-charge U Pau Ngo Hswe presented gifts to the Secretary-1 and Lt-Gen Aung Htwe.
Afterwards, General Khin Nyunt, Commander Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing and National race leader U Pau Yu Chan formally opened the plant.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party and guests inspected production process and refined tin. Next, the Secretary-1 and party arrived back in Lashio. Then, they left Lashio and arrived back in Mandalay in the evening.
On 26 January morning, they arrived at Mandalay International Airport. Next, they left the airport and arrived back here later in the morning.
Mushrooming of factories in Kyaukse Industrial Zone will surely fulfil basic requirements of the people
Secretary-1 attends opening ceremonies of factories of Ministry of Industry-1 in Kyaukse
Yangon, 27 Jan — Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, left here by air this morning and arrived at Mandalay International Airport at 8.15 am.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party proceeded to Kyaukse Industrial Zone in Mandalay Division. The ceremony to open the factories of the Ministry of Industry-1 was held at respective factories in Kyaukse this morning attended by Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt.
First, Cement Plant (Kyaukse) of Myanma Ceramics Industries was opened at 9 am.
Commander Maj-Gen Ye Myint, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung, Managing Director of Myanma Cera-mics Industries Col Soe Yi and Chairman of China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd Ms Luo Yan formally opened the plant. Then, the Secretary-1 unveiled the archway and the stone plaque of the plant.
Then, Minister U Aung Thaung reported on facts about the plant. Next, the Secretary-1 and party visited the plant. Cement Plant (Kyaukse) can produce 150,000 tons of Horse Head brand cement a year.
Next, the Sewing Machine Factory (Kyaukse) of Myanma General and Maintenance Industries was held.
Managing Director of MGMI U Thaik Tun and Vice- President Mr MP Gupta of Angelique International Ltd of India formally opened the factory. The Secretary-1 formally unveiled the signboard of the factory.
The Secretary-1 and party inspected production process of the factory. The factory can manufacture 100,000 sewing machines a year.
Afterwards, the Vest Factory (Kyaukse) was opened. Managing Director U Oo Thein Maung of Myanma Textile Industries and President Mr Jiang Chengxun of China World Best Group Co Ltd formally opened the factory. General Khin Nyunt unveiled the signboard of the factory.
Then, the General and party inspected the factory. The Vest Factory can produce 1.2 million vests, 0.6 million T-shirts and 0.18 million of sports shirts a year.
They then arrived at Bicycle Factory (Kyaukse) of Myanma General and Maintenance Industries. They were welcomed by Factory Manager Lt-Col Khin Maung Myint and officials.
The Secretary-1 and party inspected the sections of the factory. Minister U Aung Thaung and officials reported on matters related to products of the factory.
Afterwards, the ceremony to open Cement Plant, Sewing Machine Factory and Vest Factory was held at the hall of the Cement Plant.
At the ceremony, Managing Director U Oo Thein Maung reported that there are 18 factories under Myanma Textile Industries. At present, three new textile factories are being built in Pyintbyu, Pakokku and Salingyi townships as well as one dyeing and printing factory in Yamethin and one vest factory in Kyaukse in accord with the guidance of the Head of State.
The vest factories produce 2.42 million vests or 6.95 per cent a year against the national demand. The factory will produce 1,200,000 vests, 600,000 T-shirts and 1,980,000 sports shirts yearly.
Then, Managing Director Col Soe Yi of Myanma Ceramics Industries reported that Kyaukse Cement Plant was built with the aims of meeting local cement demand, ensuring development of modern buildings and gaining job opportunities in the region in line with the guidance of the Head of State. Construction of the plant, built by Myanma General and Maintenance Industries, started on 28 September 2000. After installing machines at the plant, test-running was carried out by Chinese and Myanmar engineers on 29-10-2002.
There are 11 cement plants in Myanmar — three plants including Kyaukse Cement Plant under the Ministry of Industry-1, two of Myanma Economic Corporation and two of Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings Ltd which are under construction including three private cement plants and one under construction. The Kyaukse Cement Plant can manufacture 150,000 tons of cement yearly.
Next, Managing Director U Thaik Tun of Myanma General and Maintenance Industries reported that the Sewing Machine Factory will produce 100,000 sewing machines at present and 300,000 in the future.
Then, Minister U Aung Thaung reported on progress of Candy Factory, Footwear Factory and Bicycle Factory of the ministry, project tasks of Cement Plant, Sewing Machine Factory and Vest Factory and matters related to project tasks of Blanket Factory, Enamelware Factory, Steel ware Factory, Cosmetics Factory, Grinding Ball Factory and Bicycle Tyre and Tube Factory.
Next, the Secretary-1 delivered an address.
The Secretary-1 said that at a time when the government was placing a special emphasis on the enhancement of industrial power and productivity, the emergence of Kyaukse industrial zone materialized due to the successful implementation of the industrial objectives of the State by responsible personnel at different levels.
The State Peace and Development Council was making every endeavour for the advancement of the national economic life by making effective use of natural and human resources so that the Union of Myanmar will be able to keep abreast with the development of other nations of the world.
The Union of Myanmar being an agro-based country, the national economic life was based on the agricultural sector. However, endeavours must be made for the development of the industrial sector, the key to the emergence of a modern and developed nation.
Therefore, the government was trying to establish agro-based industries and other industries simultaneously. In addition, it was organizing industrial forces which could contribute to the development of the State. In doing so, it was trying for the flourishing of State-owned medium and heavy industries as well as private industries.
The Secretary-1 also said that systematic measures had been taken for the development of the industrial sector. Similarly, priority was being given to the emergence of the industries which could produce agricultural machinery, personnel goods and import substitute items.
Head of State Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance on the establishment of industrial zones which could meet the needs of the State and the people and the emergence of Kyaukse Industrial Zone was in accordance with his guidance.
In Kyaukse Industrial Zone, departments under various ministries were establishing cement factories, rice and brand oil mills and consumer goods factories.
The simultaneous opening of three factories— a cement factory, a sewing machine factory and a vest factory — by the Ministry of Industry-1 reflected the goodwill of the Head of State towards the people living in up-country.
Moreover, an firebrick factory and a PP Woven plastic factory were under construction and measures had been taken for building a blanket factory, an enamelware factory, a steel ware factory, a tooth paste and cosmetic factory, grinding ball factory and a bicycle tyre and tube factory.
The mushrooming of factories in Kyaukse Industrial Zone would surely fulfil basic requirements of the people and the zone would effectively contribute to the enhancement of national industrial power.
Due to the Kyaukse Industrial Zone, better economic and social foundations and job opportunities had emerged for local people in the region and living standard of local people would improve.
Moreover, for the people in the country the Kyaukse industrial zone would continuously manufacture personal goods that could fulfil food, clothing and shelter needs and education, health and social requirements, foodstuff, construction materials and industrial raw materials that could enhance national industrial power.
The industrial zones were being established for fulfiling everyday needs and education, health and social requirements of the people and for consumption of commodities at reasonable price which had higher quality than imported ones.
If the people lived in miserable conditions, the government would face crisis. With this evil concept, unscrupulous destructive element group caused to impose economic sanctions on Myanmar by various means. So, the people suffered much.
No matter what kind of obstacles the government faced, it would continue to make efforts day and night to enable the people to raise their living standard with genuine goodwill.
Despite internal and external hindrance and obstacles, service personnel and national people were to make efforts in unity to strengthen national economic life based on own national power under the leadership of the government.
The Secretary-1 urged officials and staff of the factories to manufacture quality goods with the attitude of fulfilling the requirements of the people without separating economic and management tasks in accord with the goodwill of the government.
He said all the industrial forces of factories, industrial regions and industrial zones were to strive for development of industrial technology and productivity for the emergence of a modern developed nation. He said efforts were to be made to become export industry from import substitute industries.
In conclusion, he urged all to make endeavours for development of industrial sector keeping abreast with the nations of the world, to place emphasis on production of quality goods with determination and to raise production work that contributes to uplift of life of the people.
Then, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung and Head of China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd Ms Luo Yan, Mr Jiang Chengxun of China World Best Group Co Ltd and Vice-President Mr MP Gupta of Angelique Int’l Ltd of India presented gifts to Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt to mark the opening ceremony of the factories.
Next, Head of China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd Ms Luo Yan, Mr Jiang Chengxun of China World Best Group Co Ltd and Vice-President Mr MP Gupta of Angelique Int’l Ltd of India also presented gifts to Industry-1 Minister U Aung Thaung.
Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt also presented baskets of fruits to officials of China CAMC Engineering Co Ltd, China World Best Group Co Ltd and Angelique Int’l Ltd of India.
Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt also presented gifts to the employees who took part in constructing the factories. General Manager of Myanma Ceramics Industries U Aye Maw, factory manager of Myanma Textile Industries U Wai Lin and factory manager of Myanma General and Maintenance Industries Lt-Col Tun Lin accepted the gifts on behalf of the employees. Afterwards, the ceremony drew to a close.
After the ceremony, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and officials viewed cement, firebricks, sewing machines, foodstuff, consumers’ goods, garments and bicycles manufactured by the factories in Kyaukse.
Government spent over K 58,000 million and a huge sum of foreign currency on construction of dams and reservoirs
Secretary-1 attends course No 1/2003 at Myanmar Canaan Farmers’ Training Centre
Yangon, 27 Jan — Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and party arrived in PyinOoLwin this afternoon after attending opening ceremony of factories of the Ministry of Industry-1 in Kyaukse Industrial Zone, Mandalay Division.
The Secretary-1 and party then arrived at Myanmar Canaan Farmers’ Training Centre in PyinOoLwin.
The opening ceremony of the Course No 1/2003 of the centre was held at the hall of the school at 1 pm, with an address by Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt.
The Secretary-1 delivered an address.
He said that the Myanmar-Canaana Farmers’ Training School is the significant milestone for Myanmar-Korea cooperation in the agriculture sector, adding that special thanks were due to Chairman of the school Dr Kim Bum-il who made earnest efforts with farsightedness for the emergence of the facility. He expressed thanks to the Korean Government for its assistance and to the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation for its endeavours for the emergence of the project.
Since Myanmar is an agro-based country 70 percent of population reside in rural areas. So also the Government has been giving priority to development of the agriculture sector. In the time of the present Government altogether 141 dams and reservoirs were built and 262 river water pumping projects were implemented across the nation for agricultural purpose.
The Government has spent over K 58,000 million and a huge sum of foreign currency on construction of dams and reservoirs. In addition, the Government sold the fertilizer and pesticide needed in agricultural undertakings at reasonable prices and necessary assistance is being provided for boosting the per acre yield. As a result, income of farmers increased and their living standard lifted up significantly during the past ten years.
Better agricultural techniques can be attributed to boosting the per acre yield, and the Government is providing assistance to the farmers for obtaining the new agricultural techniques. The course being opened today will surely be beneficial to realization of this objective.
Chairman Dr Kim Bum-il visited Myanmar in January 2002 and held discussion with the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation on matters related to technical cooperation. The emergence of the school is the fruitful results of the discussion. A memorandum of understanding on technical cooperation in agricultural sector was signed on 18 July the same year.
The cornerstone laying ceremony of the school was held in September 2001 and the facility was handed over to the ministry in July 2002. The project was implemented with the aims of developing the agricultural techniques, boosting the living standard of farmers by enabling them to enjoy the full benefit of the agriculture and enabling the farmers to take interest in agriculture based on cooperation and national spirit.
Courses on agriculture, agro-economy, agriculture research and agriculture engineering will be conducted at the school. Besides, subjects on farm crops, perennial crops, cultivation of vegetables, mushroom, coffee and ginseng, water utilization, use of farm equipment and others will also be taught.
Altogether 36 trainees from states and divisions will attend the first course. Those from departments and enterprises under the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the farmers from states and divisions will be scrutinized and chosen as trainees.
Priority will be given to the farmers of the respective regions for attending the coming courses and those from the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, private sectors and NGOs will be selected in the order of merit. Arrangements are being made to dispatch the outstanding students to Korea for further study.
It is believed that the objectives of the school will no doubt be beneficial to development of Myanmar agricultural sector and national development.
In conclusion, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt expressed thanks again to Chairman Dr Kim Bum-il, the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation and the respective officials for their efforts to ensure the emergence of the project and wished the perpetuation of the ties between Myanmar and Korea, success of the school and Canaan Farmers’ School in Korea and further flourishing of cooperation between the Government of the Union of Myanmar and Canaan Farmers’ School.
Then, President Dr Kim Bum-il of Canaan Farmers’ School gave a speech.
After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party inspected hostels, farming equipment and teaching aids.
Altogether 16 service personnel and 20 farmers, totalling 36, are attending the 10-week course.
Cultivation of farming and perennial crops, vegetables, mushroom, coffee and ginseng, utilization of farming equipment, English and Computer science will be conducted at the training course.
Then, President Dr Kim Bum-il of Canaan Farmers’ School called on Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt at the hall of the centre.
Next, the Secretary-1 cordially conversed with the trainees.
Later, the Secretary-1 and party went to Mandalay International Airport and arrived back here in the evening.
Secretary-1 attends dinner to mark Myanmar Dental Conference
Yangon, 27 Jan — To mark the 23rd Myanmar Dental Conference and the fourth meeting of World Dental Federation and Myanmar Dental Association, the MDA Chairman hosted a dinner at the Traders Hotel on Sule Pagoda Road at 7 pm today. Chairman of National Health Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt attended the dinner.
At the dinner, Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein presented the best resource person award to Dental Surgeon Dr Wunna Soe of DaikU Township People’s Hospital.
Academy Awards Winners honoured
Yangon, 27 Jan- A ceremony to honour those who won 2001 Myanma Motion. Picture Awards was held at Myanma Motion Picture Asiayonon Wingaba Street in Bahan Township at 7 pm today attended by Secretary- 1 of the State Peace and De- velopment Couricil General Khin Nyunt.
First, MMP A Chairman U Sein Tin explained the purpose of the ceremony. Then the chairman presented gifts to the Best Film Director A ward Winner Maung Tin Oo the Best Actress Award Winner May Than Nu.
The Best Supporting Actor A ward Winner Nay Aung. the Best Cameraman A ward Winner Ko Ko Htay.
The Best Actress A ward Winner Htet Htet Moe Oo and the Best Actor A ward Winner Lwin Moe; and MMP A Vice-Chairman U Hla Myo (A-I Maung Hla Myo) to the Best Actor A ward Winner Min Maw Gun the Best Supporting Actress A ward Winner May Thinzar Oo, the Best Script Writer Award Winner Khin Lay Theint, the Best Film A ward Winner 'Hna-Ion-hla-lu- maik' Film Producer Myeik U Tin Aung and the Best Supporting Actress A ward Winner Soe Myat Nandar .
On behalf of the academy, award winners, Film Stars Lwin Moe and May Than Nu spoke words of thanks.Then, MMPA hosted a dinner to those present.
Paunglaung, Yeywa, Shweli, Monechaung hydro electric power projects inspected
Yangon, 27 Jan — Minister for Electric Power Maj-Gen Tin Htut inspected Paunglaung hydro electric power project being implemented in Mandalay Division on 18 January. He inspected construction of the underground power plant, installation of pipeline and construction of diversion canal and met with staff of projects and gave necessary instructions to them.
The minister and party on 19 January arrived at Yeywa hydro electric power project and looked into construction of embankment and earthen wall and digging of diversion tunnel and met with staff of project and gave necessary instructions to them.
The Minister and party together with Commander of North-East Command Maj-Gen Myint Hlaing on 21 January arrived at Shweli hydro electric power project in Namhkan Township, Shan State (North) and inspected the site chosen for the plant and progress of work for the project.
Then, the minister heard reports on matters relating to implementing the project reported by officials concerned. He gave instructions to them and attended to their requirements.
The minister and party on 23 January saw over erecting of towers and installation of Mone-Chauk 132 KV power line. Then, they proceeded to Monechaung hydro electric power project and inspected construction of the sub-power plant and the power station, installation of pipeline and construction of embankment and fulfilled their needs.
Then, the minister met with the staff and gave instructions on completion of the projects earlier than schedule, cooperative tasks among departments, minimizing of fuel, health and staff welfare and spoke words of encouragement to them and attended to the needs.
Minister sees over factories in Mandalay Division
Yangon, 27 Jan — Secretariat Member of the Union Solidarity and Development Association U Aung Thaung yesterday morning met with the trainees who are attending No 14 management multiplier course for USDA executives at Myingyan District USDA, and secretary and executives of Myittha Township USDA at the township office respectively and gave instructions. Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung inspected preparations for opening of vest factory in Kyaukse industrial zone and gave necessary instructions.
He also inspected preparatory tasks for Garment Factory, cement factory (Kyaukse) which has a capacity of 500 tons per day and rice mill which will be opened soon.
YANGON, 27 Jan - Myanmar Women Sports Federation honoured the athletes who won the prizes in 14th Aslan Games and the 8th Far-east and South-Pacific Countries Disabled Sports Competition, at the Internationa1 Business Centre on Pyay Road this afternoon.
Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint made a speech. MWSF President Professor Dr Daw May MayYee extended greetings. Member of Panel of Patrons of MWSF Daw Khin Than Nwe presented K 200,000 to two- silver medalist Nyunt Nyunt Win and K 170,000 one silver and one bronze medalist Khin Phyu Win.
Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe presented K 70,000 each to bronze medalists Ma Swe Swe Thant and Mya Sandar Oo,K250,000tothe Women, Team which won silver in ,Sepak Takfaw competition, K 100,000 each to silver medalists Khin Moe Nwe and Kay ThiWin.
Minister Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint presented K 150,000 to Wushu Gold Medalist Khine Khine Maw, who then spoke words of thanks on behalf of the athletes.
Minister for Information inspects Aung San Press
Yangon, 27 Jan— Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Director-General of Myanma Radio and Television U Khin Maung Htay, Managing Director of News and Periodicals Enterprise U Tin Kha and officials inspected Aung San Press of Printing and Publishing Enterprise this evening.
Managing Director of Eya Min Thein Construction Co (Mandalay) U Thein Myint and Engineer U Maung Maung Nyi reported on progress of work. The minister gave instructions on durability of the building and completion in time.
Construction of the staff quarter started on 25 December 2002 and it will be completed on 31 March and it will be handed over to the Ministry of Information. The minister and party inspected test run of the machines installed in the press. The minister gave instructions on effective use of electricity and minimizing the loss of equipment.
The minister and party inspected off-set camera room, page making room and printing of cover of textbooks. The minister fulfilled the requirements in meeting with the staff.
Chief Justice and state/division justices meet
Yangon, 27 Jan — The 21st work coordination meeting of chief justice and state and division justices was held this morning at Training and Research Division (Branch) of Supreme Court in Hlinethaya Township.
Chief Justice U Aung Toe, the deputy chief justices, the directors-general and the directors, advisers, state/district/division justices and the deputy directors attended the meeting. Those present took part in the all round discussion.
Communications and Postal Training Centre opens training courses
Yangon, 27 Jan — The opening ceremony of training courses at Communications and Postal Training Centre of Myanma Posts and Telecommunications under the Ministry of Communications, Posts and Telegraphs was held at the Training Centre this morning. There were Basic Electronic Course, Basic Optical Fibre Course, Cable Installation and Maintenance Course, Digital Microwave Communications Course and Optical Fibre Installation and Splicing Course. The minister made a speech on the occasion. Altogether 54 trainees are attending the course.
Cash donated to North Okkalapa General Hospital
Yangon, 27 Jan — A ceremony to donate cash to extension of X-ray room of North Okkalapa General Hospital was held at the hospital at 1 pm today, attended by Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein.
At the ceremony, the minister made a speech. Then, on behalf of well-wishers Vice-Chairman of Asia Wealth Bank U Aik Tun explained the purpose of the donation.
Minister for Health Maj-Gen Ket Sein and officials accepted a total of K 9,480,000 in donation funds and gave certificates of honour to well-wishers.
The donation included K 2,000,000 by Vice-Chairman of Asia Wealth Bank U Aik Tun; K 1,000,000 each by U Myat Thu of Asia Tawwin Co Ltd and U Hla Min of Golden Hawk International Co Ltd; K 500,000 each by U Kyaw Nyunt of Kyaw Nyunt and Brothers Co Ltd, Dr Sai San Tun of Loihein Co Ltd and U Myint Zaw of Ngapali Enterprise; K 300,000 each by U Soe Thein of Thein Than Gaday Co Ltd and U Maung Maung Gyi of MMG Construction and Trading Co Ltd.
Next, Prof Dr Myint Maung spoke words of thanks to well-wishers and the ceremony came to an end.
Myanmar Health Research Congress opens
Yangon, 27 Jan — Myanmar Health Research Congress was held at Department of Medical Research (Lower Myanmar) here this morning.
A total of 14 research papers were read today. Those present raised the queries and discussed the papers and the first day of the congress ended.
The congress continues till 31 January and totaling 71 papers will be read.
IAEA Regional Training Workshop on Refurbishment of Uptake System opens
Yangon, 27 Jan — IAEA Regional Training Workshop on Refurbishment of an Uptake System, co-organized by the Atomic Energy Department, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was opened at Yuzuna Hotel in Bahan Township this morning.
The deputy minister and Mr Herbert Kaufmann extended greetings and the opening ceremony concluded. Next, the deputy minister and those present had a documentary photo taken. The workshop commenced at 10 am and it will continue till 31 January.
Yangon, 27 Jan — MV Astor which arrived at Myanmar International Thilawa Terminal on 25 January under the arrangement of Myanmar Voyages International Tourism Co Ltd left here yesterday. Officials of the Myanma Port Authority and Ministry of Hotels and Tourism bid farewell to it.
Application Seminar on e-Government held
Yangon, 27 Jan — The seventh day of the Second Myanmar ICT Week 2003 today continued at the conference hall of MICT Park where Application Seminar on e-Government was also held.
At the seminar, Deputy Minister U Hlaing Win made an opening speech.
Then, Mr Koichiro Urabe of the Centre of the International Cooperation for Computerization (CICC) of Singapore Office, Mr Toru Hanayama of Fujitsu Asia Pte Ltd of Japan explained their respective sectors.
Afterwards, Mr Torll Hanayama also explained the use of Certificate Authority based on PKI system in the e-Government sector and answered the queries raised by the departmental officials.
Local people in Mongton region pledge never to grow opium poppy
Yangon, 27 Jan — Chairman of Work Committee for Drug Elimination in Shan State (East) Member of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Labour U Tin Winn, committee members Col San Pwint of the Ministry of Defence, Dr Khin Maung Gyi of the Health Department, General Manager of the Agriculture and Irrigation Department U Pyae Nyein, Director U Nyi Nyi of the Ministry of Progress of Border Areas and National Races Development, Secretary Police Chief-of Staff Police Brig-Gen Tin Win, discussed drug elimination matters with township-level departmental officials, members of Union Solidarity and Development Association, social organizations at Mongton Township Peace and Development Council Office on 21 January.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister U Tin Winn said: I have visited here for four times since I was assigned duties to make the whole eastern Shan State the drug-free zone.
The 15-year Narcotic Drug Eradication Programme is being implemented from 1999 to 2014, but efforts are needed to accelerate the programme so as to complete it ahead of schedule. Therefore, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt gave directives to implement the New Destiny Project from April 2002.
In accordance with the guidance of the Head of State, a committee comprising the deputy minister for Home Affairs, the deputy minister for Agriculture and Irrigation, the deputy minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs and the deputy minister for Livestock and Fisheries, was formed to carry out the tasks for the elimination of the poppy cultivation and production under the New Destiny Project.
The committee made direct contact with the poppy growers in eastern Shan State, southern Shan State, northern Shan State, Kachin State and Kayah State, and organized them to give up the poppy cultivation as well as disbursing the seeds of poppy-substitute crops. As a result, the growers handed over poppy seeds to the authorities concerned. This accounts for a significant success never achieved before.
It was eighth time that the poppy seeds handed over in these States were torched. If these poppy seeds were grown, more than 44 tons of heroin would be refined. In other words, it means that production of over 44 tons of heroin was prevented. Loans are disbursed to the farmers for cultivation of poppy-substitute crops so that they cannot face with any difficulties in the livelihood. Loans provided were K 5 million in southern Shan State, K 57.5 million in northern Shan State, K 2.5 million in eastern Shan State, K 2 million in Kachin State and K 500,000 in Kayah State totalling 67.5 million. As K 1,000 million has been earmarked, plans are under way to continue providing the rest loans,
K 32.5 million.
Poppy cultivation started under the British rule. After regaining the independence, Kuomintang intruded Mongton region and it
became notorious for production of opium and heroin. Later the region was a stronghold of insurgents especially MTA drug-trafficking groups. Insurgents involved in drug problem in Myanmar. Previous successive governments made endeavours for drug elimination in various ways but without a success. After the Tatmadaw had taken up the State duties, the government built internal peace and solidarity. It also made peace with armed groups and organized national race leaders for elimination of drugs.
The government made arrangements for cultivation of poppy substitute crops, construction of roads and bridges for transport of those products and construction of schools and dispensaries for education and health. Due to the measures undertaken, production of narcotic drugs gradually decreased. Beginning 1999, the government launched the 15-year drug elimination project. By doing so, production of narcotic drugs declined considerably.
Duties of new destiny project were assigned to four deputy ministers starting from April 2002. They directly organized poppy growers. Five ministers also made field trips and supervised the drug elimination tasks. As a result, poppy cultivation considerably declined. The United States and the United Nations acknowledged that poppy production dropped to 60 per cent from 1996 to 2002. The government in cooperation with UNDCP and DEA of the United States conducted opium yield survey beginning 1993. Such survey was conducted eight times with the United States.
Narcotic drugs are harmful not only to a single group of people but also to the mankind of the world. That is why the government has been combating anti-drug activities as a national task. Myanmar received a little bit of assistance from UNDCP. Comparing with the neighbouring countries, the assistance was very little. Continued efforts are to be made for drug elimination.
DEA of the United States supports Myanmar’s endeavours for drug elimination but the US Senate and the House of Representatives do not. The US Administration declared list of countries which cooperate with international communities and don’t cooperate with international communities in connection with anti-drug activities. However hard the government made endeavours, it is found that the US government hesitated over accepting Myanmar’s efforts. Myanmar will continue to implement drug elimination project as a national task for the interest of the mankind whether they accept or not.
At a time when the entire world accepts the decline of poppy cultivation and opium yield, Yodaya accused Wa troops of producing stimulant tablets after constructing a factory in Mongyun region. Clarifications on fabricated news were made to diplomats and correspondents.
Again, Yodaya accused Myanmar of manufacturing not only stimulant tablets but also ecstasy tablets. Such accusations include political trick. The fabrications aimed at putting pressure on Myanmar by Western nations.
To get rid of poppy cultivation and poppy production for ensuring the total elimination of narcotic drugs, combating the drug trafficking and wiping out the drug addiction, it is necessary for the local people to go hand in hand with the local authorities. He also called on the local people to inform the authorities concerned as soon as they get drug-related news.
Police Brig-Gen Tin Winn explained conditions of tasks being carried out by Myanmar for drug elimination.
Then, U Nyi Nyi said tasks are being carried out in 18 regions for development of border areas. The Government spent over K 27,200 million from 1989 to November 2002 on border area development, and arrangements are being made for the eradication of poppy cultivation.
On behalf of the local people, Shan national U Sai Aung Hla said that the poppy cultivation usually ends up in negative effects and the poppy poses a threat to the mankind. Better economic infrastructures is emerging owing to the government’s encouragement to poppy-substitute farming and other economic opportunities in the region. Building a modern and developed nation depends on the strength of entire national people. He also pledged that the local people in Mongton region would never grow poppy.
In the evening, Minister U Tin Winn and Col San Pwint met with the chairman of Monghsat District Peace and Development Council and local authorities, local commanding officers, members of Myanmar Police Force at Hwaiaw village in Pungpahkyem Township and urged them to render their cooperation in preventing the production and trafficking in stimulant tablets.
359.04 grams of heroin seized in Nawnghkio
Yangon, 27 Jan — A combined team comprising members of the local intelligence unit and Lashio Special Anti-drug Squad, acting on information, on 6 January searched Ma Nan Chaw (a) Ma Nujamar in carriage No 6 of No 132-down train en route from Lashio to Mandalay between Naung Pain and Nawnghkio stations and seized 359.04 grams of heroin in 22 soap cases.
Action is being taken against Ma Nan Chaw (a) Ma Nujamar, 51, daughter of U Mutu of room No 13, building No 122, between 29th and 30th streets, 75th and 76th streets, Mandalay under section 15/19 (A) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law by Nawnghkio Police Station.
Narcotics, paraphernalia, arms seized in Laukkai
Yangon, 27 Jan — A combined team comprising local Tatmadawmen, local intelligence unit and Myanmar Police Force members, acting on information, searched the house of Yan San, western part of Padetha Market in Laukkai on 9 January.
Yan San managed to escape from his house. But the team arrested Lauk Ei, son of U Li Shauk Chan of Nantkaw Village in Laukkai Township and Yan Kyin Kham, son of U Ye Ei of Makyoti Village, Kyasishu Village-tract, who were there. The two were seized with two kilos of raw opium, 3,000 stimulant tablets, 1.5 kilos of Ephedrine, seven kilos of ammonium chloride, one bottle of fragrance-enhancing powder, eight pyi of poppy seeds, one ceramic funnel, one flask, one iron tray, four small trays, one bell-mouthed pan, two enamel bowls, 16 plastic bags, four arms, three magazines and 26 rounds of ammunition.
Action is taken against them under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotrophic Substances Law.
