The Peasants Day message of the State Peace and Development CouncilChairman Senior General Than Shwe
(The following is a translation of the message sent by Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe on the occasion of the Peasants Day 2003)
Esteemed peasantry
The 2nd of March has been marked as the Peasants Day in honour of the entire mass of peasantry in the whole Union of Myanmar. On this auspicious day, I would like to wish spiritual and physical well being of the farmers and success and development of their work.
The State Peace and Development Council has been endeavouring for development of various economic sectors of the State, with the aim of building the Union of Myanmar to become a new, modern and developed nation. In doing so, it has been giving priority to the success and development of the agricultural business, which is the nation’s basic economy. The agricultural enterprise is the most basic economy of the State as well as the main livelihood of the rural areas, home to the majority of the nation’s population.
The State has laid down and implemented the five rural development tasks to bring progress to the whole nation beginning from the basic sector.
As the rural people represent more than 70 per cent of the nation’s population, the following factors stand as the fundamental requirements for development of the socio economy of the rural people:
— To improve the rural roads linking villages and villages and the roads linking towns and villages;
— To supply clean water for irrigation and drinking and other purposes in rural areas;
— To improve the education standard of the children of the rural people;
— To provide cent-per-cent health care programmes for the rural areas and to raise the health standard;
— To develop agricultural, livestock breeding and production sectors leading to rural economic development.
The State bodies, State service personnel, social organizations, national entrepreneurs, wellwishers and local people, are harmoniously striving with greater momentum for simultaneous implementation of the above factors.
The State has been systematically distributing advanced agricultural techniques, and high-yield and quality strains to the places having favourable climate and soil and water conditions for agriculture to help boost the yield of crops.
It has been building a large number of irrigation facilities with added momentum to supply adequate amount of water for irrigation within a short span of time. And up to the end of February 2003, the government built 143 dams, spending a total of K 59,412.38 million. The dams are now irrigating over two million acres of crops.
In addition to the dams, various means have been sought and practically applied to supply water for agriculture. River water pumping stations, underground water tapping stations and mini dams have been built the length and breadth of the nation. A total of 265 river water pumping projects have been implemented in 12 states and divisions, irrigatig about 300,000 acres of cultivable land. They were implemented in various places of the nation to irrigate a large contiguous stretch of land. The slash-and-burn method which has been practised in the highland regions of Myanmar can cause environment degradation, forest depletion, loss of soil, and change of weather. Besides, the method has made the ethnic races of the hill regions to live as nomads, having no permanent settlements; and has also posed as a barrier hindering both their socio-economic progress and regional development. The Highland Reclamation and Cultivation Committee has been formed, and highland reclamation and cultivation projects, in which slash-and-burn method will be replaced by terrace farming, have been laid down and are being implemented towards realization of a modern agricultural and production system, ensuring surplus food for the rural people of the highland regions and improving their living standard, enabling the people of hill regions to live in permanent settlements; eradicating cultivation of poppy for opium, and preserving and protecting the natural environment. Thus, I would like to urge the local people of the regions to take part with might and main in the task in the interest of the nation and theirs.
Esteemed peasantry
Furthermore, arrangements have been made to ensure that the benefits of the drive to strengthen and develop the national economy, raise the living standard of the national people, and develop the health, education and social sectors of the citizens not only reach the rural areas, home to the farmers, but also all remote border areas.
At present, the internal and external destructive elements in collusion with neo-colonialists are making attempts and floating fabrications and rumours to disturb peace and stability of the State, destroy the developing economic foundations, spoil the success of the border areas development drive, break up the national unity and slow down the pace of narcotics elimination programmes.
The destructive acts must be reacted and warded off with the unity of the entire people, and the entire mass of national races including the peasants who will have to harmoniously strive for emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation in accord with the Myanmar saying, which goes, “Unity brings national peace and prosperity”.
In this regard, you, the peasantry, will have to endeavour together with the entire national people for successful implementation of the State’s political, economic and social objectives for national peace and stability and modernization and development, warding off internal and external destructionists, for rapid development of the agricultural sector which not only plays a key role in the national economic, but also directly concerns you.
Secretary-1 attends opening of education goal stone inscription, new bridges in Mon State
Yangon, 1 March—Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt left here by helicopter and arrived at Zokethoke Model Village in Bilin Township, Thaton District, Mon State, at 8.50 am today.
The Secretary-1 and party were welcomed there by Chairman of Mon State Peace and Development Council Commander of South-East Command Maj-Gen Thura Myint Aung and military officers, members of Mon State, District and Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental officials, social organizations, teachers and students.
A ceremony to open the stone inscription bearing Our Vision and the signboard bearing Building a Modern Developed Nation through Education of Zokethoke Model Village Basic Education High School was held at the school at 9 am, attended by Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council.
First, the congregation saluted the State flag and sang the National Anthem. Then, the outstanding students formally opened the stone inscription and the signboard. Next, the students sang the song titled Myanma School. Afterwards, the Secretary-1 and party had a documentary photo taken together with members of the School Board of Trustees, teachers and students. Then, the students sang a song titled National Prestige and Integrity, and the ceremony came to an end.
After that, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and party proceeded to Kyaikhtihsaung Pagoda and paid homage to it. Then, the Secretary-1 and party paid obeisance to Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Pañnadipa at the prayer hall of the pagoda. Then, the Secretary-1 and party received the Five Precepts from the Sayadaw. Later, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt presented offertories to the Sayadaw.
Then, the Secretary-1 and party attended the ceremony to hoist Htidaw atop Manimekhalar Htupa Hsandawshin Pagoda near Zwekalar Village in Bilin Township.
Next, the Secretary-1 and party attended the ceremony to enshrine the nine kinds of gems for the three Buddha images to be kept at the Ordination Hall of the pagoda. Then, the Secretary-1 enshrined the nine kinds of gems to the site where the throne for the three Buddha images is to be built.
Then, the opening ceremony of the new bridge was held at the village, attended by Chairman of the Work Committee for Development of Border Areas and National Races Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and party. The bridge was constructed with the sponsorship of Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Pañnadipa and the Ministry of Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs. Chairman of Thaton District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Tin Aung and reciplent of outstanding performance in social field (Grade II) U Myint Yi formally opened the bridge. Then, the Secretary-1 and party viewed round the bridge.
Next, the opening ceremony of Thuwunna Yadana Bridge was held at the bridge near Kawkadut Model Village in Bilin Township. Also present on the occasion were Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt and party, members of Mon State, District and Township Peace and Development Councils, departmental officials, members of the Union Solidarity and Development Association, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, the Working Committee for Women Affairs, Red Cross Society and Auxiliary Fire Bridge and local people and others.
First, the Secretary-1 presented gifts to Director-General Col Myo Myint of Development Affairs Department, Assistant Director U Tin Aye of Taungzun Quarry, U Myint Yi (Medal Grade II for Excellent Performance in Social field holder) and Chairman of Dalingon Village Peace and Development Council U Aye Maung, who are engaged in the construction of the bridge. Commander Maj-Gen Thura Myint Aung and Minister Col Thein Nyunt formally unveiled the signboard of Thuwunna Yadana Bridge. Next, the Secretary-1 formally unveiled the stone plaque of the bridge. Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw and the Secretary-1 poured scented water on the stone plaque. Then, the Secretary-1 formally opened the bridge and inspected it. The Secretary-1 then performed rituals of golden and silver showers. The Secretary-1 greeted the local people. The reinforced bridge is 197 feet long and 26 feet wide and it has 5 feet wide walkways each.
The Secretary-1 and party attended the ceremony to enshrine relics and to hoist Htidaw of the pagoda, the replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda, on Kelassa Hill.
Next, the Secretary-1 inspected paving of the road from Zokethoke model village to Yetkanthema Village. The Secretary-1 and party arrived back here in the evening.
Secretary-1 attends hoisting of Htidaws atop Manimekhala Htupa Hsandawshin Pagoda and Shwedagon Replica Pagoda (Kelasa) in Bilin, Mon State
Yangon, 1 March — A ceremony to hoist Htidaw atop Manimekhala Htupa Hsandawshin Pagoda near Zwekala Village, Bilin Township, Thaton District, Mon State, was held at the pagoda at 9.30 am today, attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Vice-Chairman of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Dawei Sayadaw Bhaddanta Acinnabhivamsa, Joint-Secretary Agga Maha Pandita Nyaungdon Sayadaw Bhaddanta Osadhabhivamsa, Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Bhaddanta Panñadipa and members of the Sangha.
The ceremony was opened with three-time recitation of Namo Tassa.
Then, the vice-chairman Sayadaw invested the congregation with the Nine Precepts. The joint-secretary Sayadaw gave an Ovadakatha. Members of the Sangha recited parittas.
The Secretary-1 supplicated religious matters. In his supplication, he said he gained meritorious deeds by paying respects to members of the Sangha led by Sayadaws of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee and Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhammajotikadhaja Bhaddanta Pañnadipa at the Htidaw hoisting ceremony of Zwegala Mani Maykhalar Htupa Hsandawshin Pagoda.
He said the Lord Buddha attained Nirvana over 2,500 years ago. Myanmar has been standing tall as a genuine Theravada Buddhist country in the world preserving the original forms of Pariyatti and Paripatti. In 235 Sasana Era, Ashinmaha Moggali Putta Tissa and King Siri Dhammasoka sent missionary groups to nine regions. According to Sasana history and Myanma history, Thuwunnabumi, located in Bilin Township, Thaton District, was one of the regions. Famous Hsandawshin pagodas in the township were renovated under the leadership of Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw Agga Maha Saddhammajotikadhaja Bhaddanta Pañnadipa.
The Sayadaw also renovated Zwegala Mani Maykhalar Htupa Hsandawshin Pagoda, offering gold foils, constructing the prayer halls, stairways and roads and digging drinking water lake and installing water pumping stations.
The Secretary-1 said the Ministry of Religious Affairs assigned duties to the Sayadaw to maintain the pagoda. The Htidaw of Kelasa Pagoda, replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda, will be hoisted under the leadership of the Sayadaw.
He said Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw carried out not only the religious tasks for flourishing of the Sasana but also construction tasks such as building roads, bridges and schools in the interest of the people.
The Secretary-1 wished for the Sayadaw to carry out the religious tasks as well as community welfare services.
The Secretary-1 presented Seinbudaw (diamond bud) to be hoisted atop the pagoda and offertories to the Dawei Sayadaw. Lt-Gen Maung Bo presented Hngetmyatnadaw and offertories to the Dawei Sayadaw. The commander and the ministers presented offertories to members of the Sangha.
Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Aung Ko presented the certificate of duty assigned by the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee for keeping the pagoda, to the Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw.
Then, the cash donation ceremony followed at the same venue. Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt presented K 99,999 donated by him and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and family for the pagoda to the commander.
The Secretary-1 accepted K 36 million donated by Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma Manizawtadara U Khin Shwe-Thiri Thudhamma Theingi Daw San San Kywe and family, K 2 million by Zwekala Village Peace and Development Council Chairman U Aung Kyaw-Daw Phwar Kyi and family, and K 540,000 by U Wan Htein-Daw Aye and family of Thanbyuzayat.
U San Thin Hlaing of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, master of ceremonies, read out the list of wellwishers. Today’s donations totalled K 40,700,999.
Sayadaw Bhaddanta Panñadipa delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of merits gained.
Then, the Htidaw hoisting ceremony followed. Flanked by renal procession troupes, the Secretary-1, Lt-Gen Maung Bo, the commander, the ministers and the deputy ministers conveyed Seinbudaw, Hngetmyatna-daw and tiers of Htidaw around the pagoda clock-wise, and then hoisted them atop the pagoda.
Led by the Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw, the Secretary-1 fixed the religious objects atop the pagoda. The Secretary-1 and party sprinkled scented water on them.
The Secretary-1 performed rituals of gold and silver showers to mark the successful completion of the ceremony.
Then, the ceremony to lay cornerstones for construction of a prayer hall of the pagoda was held.
The Secretary-1 placed the golden casket with gems in the middle of the foundation.
After taking positions, the Secretary-1 and party laid cornerstones at the designated places and sprinkled scented water on them.
The Secretary-1 switched on the lights offered to the pagoda.
The Sayadaws and members of the Sangha consecrated the pagoda.
After the ceremony, led by the Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw, the Secretary-1 and party visited the Kelasa Hsandawshin Pagoda on Kelasa Hill.
The Secretary-1 offered lights and paid reverence to the pagoda.
Next, the ceremony to enshrine religious objects into the upper reliquary and to hoist Htidaw atop the Shwedagon Replica Pagoda was held on the hill.
Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt presented Seinbudaw, Hngetmyat-nadaw, Htidaw and religious objects to the Kyaik-htihsaung Sayadaw, who then gave an Ovadakatha.
Led by the Kyaik-htihsaung Sayadaw and flanked by the renal procession troupes, the Secretary-1 and party conveyed the Seinbudaw, Hngetmyat-nadaw, Htidaw and religious objects round the pagoda clock-wise.
Afterwards, led by the Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw, the Secretary-1 enshrined the religious objects into the upper reliquary and fixed
the Seinbudaw, Hnget-myatnadaw and Htidaw atop the pagoda.
The Secretary-1 performed rituals of gold and silver showers to mark the successful completion of the ceremony.
After the ceremony, the Kyaikhtihsaung Sayadaw and the Secretary-1 sprinkled scented water on Sondaya stone plaque inscribed by Nyaung Chaung Sayadaw U Ñananabhivam-sa in 1288 (Myanmar Era), to open it.
Yangon, 1 March — The opening and merit sharing ceremony of Thaddhamanyani six-storey building in Thuseittayon Pariyatti Sarthintaik on Baho Road in Kamayut Township, Yangon West District, was held at the monastery this morning. Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe formally unveiled the stone inscription of the building.
First, Chairman of Yangon West District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein, Chariman U Wai Myo Khaing of Kamayut Township Peace and Development Council and Chairman of Board of Trustees of the monastery U Kyaw Tint formally opened the building. Then, the commander formally un-veiled the stone inscription of the building. The commander and party inspected round the building. Afterwards, the commander and the congregation received the Five Precepts from the Magway Sayadaw.
Then, the commander and officials presented offer-tories to members of the Sangha. The Magway Sayadaw delivered a sermon, followed by sharing the merits gained.
It was attended by members of the Sangha led by Secretary of State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru Abhidhaja Agga Maha Saddhamma Jotikadhaja Magway Sayadaw Bhad-danta Kumara, Commander of No 3 Military Region Col Yan Naing Oo, local authorities, officials of social organizations, and lay persons.
Region
Yangon, 1 March — Tatmadawmen, personnel of Yangon City Development Committee, members of Myanmar Police Force, Union Solidarity and Development Association, Red Cross Society, Auxiliary Fire Brigade, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, and Committee for Women’s Affairs and Yangoncites are carrying out tasks for upgrading of Yangon City.
Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Vice-Chairman of YCDC Vice-Mayor Col Maung Pa this morning inspected the tasks.
The commander and the vice-mayor and party arrived at the work site on Bandoola Road in Ward 16, Shwepyitha Township, Yangon North District, where they were welcomed by Secretary of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Lt-Col Kyaw Tint, Chairman of Yangon North District Peace and Development Council Lt-Col San Ma Tu and members and officials.
They inspected the dredging of the drain to prevent flooding of the ward in the rainy season. Officials reported on future tasks with the use of charts. The commander and the vice-mayor gave instructions and attended to the needs.
They went to the work sit at the corner of Strand Road and Sule Pagoda Road. No 4 Military Region Commander Brig-Gen Myo Myint and officials welcomed them.
The commander and party then inspected expansion of Strand Road to a six-lane one, reconstruction of platforms, installation of guard rays and the dredging of the drain. They also saw over similar tasks being carried out by Tatmadaw members and YCDC staff at the corners of Strand Road and Pansodan Street and Bo Aung Kyaw Streets, and tasks for beautifying of Seikkantha Park. Brig-Gen Myo Myint and officials reported on work progress. The commander left necessary instructions.
The commander and party inspected Bogyoke Aung San Market in Pabedan Township. Brig-Gen Myo Myint, Yangon North District Peace and Development Council Chairman Lt-Col Maung Maung Shein and officials of YCDC conducted them round the market. Officials reported on conditions of shops and arrangements for cleanliness of the market. The commander called on departmental personnel and the market development affairs committee to make collective efforts for constantly keeping the market clean and tidy and for being a model market.
Yangon, 1 March— Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe yesterday evening arrived at the site of extension of apron where they heard reports on arrangements being carried out and completion of earth works by officials of Asia World Co Ltd.
The deputy director-general of Civil Aviation Department and officials reported on measures being taken to the minister and party. The deputy minister fulfilled the needs and inspected measures being taken for earth works.
The minister and the deputy minister this morning arrived at the lounge for departure where they heard reports on cleaning tasks and measures being taken for passengers’ convenience by officials of Civil Aviation Department and they inspected the airport’s lounges.
The minister gave instructions on keeping the lounges clean ever, systematic use of electricity to the officials.
Then, the minister and party proceeded to the goods shed where they heard reports on weighing of goods and loading of those by officials and the minister left necessary instructions.
Yangon, 1 Mar — The parade columns which will take part in the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day parade practised parade drills at Myoma Grounds from 6 am to 8 am today.
Columns under the command of Parade Commander Brig-Gen Than Htay were Anawrahta Column under the command of Column Commander Col Myint Oo, Kyansittha Column under the command of Column Commander Col Tha Aung, Bayintnaung Column under the command of Column Commander Col Win Htay, Nawaday Column under the command of Column Commander Col Myint Thein, Aungzeya Column under the command of Column Commander Col Thein Hlaing, Sinphyushin Column under the command of Column Commander Col Min Zaw, Bandoola Column under the command of Column Commander Col Win Swe, Myawady Column under the command of Column Commander Col Myo Win, and Aung San Column under the command of Column Commander Col Hla Moe.
Vice-Chiefs of Armed Forces Training Maj-Gen Win Myint, Maj-Gen Aung Kyi and Maj-Gen Thein Swe, senior military officers and officials inspected the drills.
Yangon, 1 March — Central Executive Committee member Brig-Gen Pyi Sone on 28 February met with executives of Union Solidarity and Development Association of Latha and Seikkan Townships at the office of Latha Township USDA and gave instructions on measures to be taken for organizing functions effectively in ward and in township; building of strong organization and quantity of memberships to be qualified ; implementing objectives and future tasks of the association; strengthening for confidence of memberships; ensuring dynamism for patriotism, preparation for opening of the summer course; prevention against danger of fire in summer and cooperation with the local people in implementing five tasks of rural development laid down by the state. Then, Latha Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Kyaw Win and Secretaries of Seikkan and Latha Township USDAs reported on arrangements being carried out to the CEC member who fulfilled the needs.
Winners of novel and short story contest in commemoration of 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day announced
Yangon, 1 March— The winners of novel and short story contest in commemoration of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day were announced by literary and photo work committee.
In novel contest (novice class), “Tee-kho-khe-thaw-nay-ya-myar-go-thant-thant-shin-shin-htar-kheh-bar” by Ko Htwe (Kalaw GTI) was first and “Ahla-chin-pyaing-a-pwint-yeh-ga-hna-khaing” by Chan Mya Aung.
In novel contest (class for those who won prizes), “Thon-nya-hnit-tit-ko-nar-le-gyin” by Naing (Kaytu) was first, “yaung-chi-le-lin-pan-le-thing” by Thin Moe Ni second, Myin-pyaing-hna-kyaung-doh-ei-ni-ya-ma” by Zaw Myint Thein third and “hnin-thant-ngwe-sabai-pa-le-thwe-ni-htway” by Thadumye Phone Shein won special prize.
In short story contest (novice class), “eya-thanlwin-chu-hwe-shweli-thet-they-ti-zat-tha-dee” by Ye Ye Tun (Hinthada)was first and “maw-shan-mye-myint-lan-thit-hwint” by Khin Aye Aye Han (Myawady TV) second, “Amoe-hnit-thar-myar” by Maung Thet Hin (North Okkalapa) third. “Kyauk-ta-lone-taik-pwe” by Hla Kywe (Mandalay University) won special prize.
In short story contest (class for those who have won prizes), “Shwe-go-ma-lo-ngwe-go-malo” by Saw Myitzu (Pyapon) and “Kyun-dw-doh-ei-paradigm” by Min Bayda (Pwintphu) won special prizes.
Prizes will be presented to the winners at the prize presentation in commemoration of the 58th Anniversary Armed Forces Day in Yangon on 27 March 2003 and special prizes at the ceremony at the respective military commands the same day.
The winners are to report in person to U Ko Ko Htwe, Secretary of the work committee, Myanma Radio and Television, Pyay Road during office hour on 24 March.
Music and fine arts courses end
Yangon, 1 March — A ceremony to present certificates for 2002-2003 academic year of Yangon Music School and State School of Fine Arts of the Fine Arts Department under the Ministry of Culture was held in conjunction with the exhibition of works of arts and the school concert of the newly-qualified students at the National Theatre in Myoma Kyaung Street, Dagon Township, this morning.
Present on the occasion were Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung, Deputy Minister U Soe Nyunt, artistes, officials, students and guests. Director-General of the Fine Arts Department U Kyaw Win made a speech and presented certificates to 35 students. Then, the minister, the deputy minister and guests viewed works of arts and watched entertain-ment programmes of the students. Those who wish to attend the schools’ three-year courses may contact respective township Peace and Development Councils or the music schools and State schools of fine arts in Yangon and Mandalay.
MAWFA opens International Fair
Yangon, 1Mar — A ceremony to open an International Fair, organized by Myanmar ASEAN Women’s Friendship Association MAWFA, was held at the Mya Yeik Nyo Royal Hotel this morning. Chief Patron of MAWFA wife of the Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe attended the fair and opened it by cutting a ribbon.
Present on the occasion were Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and wife, member of the Board of Patrons Daw San Yone, Deputy Minister U Khin Maung Win and wife, member of the Board of Patrons Daw Khin Swe Soe, wives of the ministers, wives of departmental heads, Philipine ambassador to Myanmar Mme Phoeba A Gomez, wives of ambassadors and diplomats of the ASEAN embassies as well as the wives of the ambassadors of other embassies.
First, Chairperson of MAWFA Daw Khin Hnin Nyunt extended greetings on the occasion.
Then, Chief Patron of MAWFAwife of the Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe opened the fair by cutting a ribbon.
After opening the fair, Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and party viewed the stalls of various countries round the fair.
The International Fair displays handicrafts and other products from various countries such as household things, clothes, silverware, wooden handicraft, glazed-ware, paintings and puppets, traditional snacks from various countries, bags and cotton cloths and traditional costumes.
The Fair was crowded with people.
Trainees of Basic Diplomatic Course No 7/2002-2003 entertained performance to the visitors and hotels in Yangon sell different kinds of snacks.The income from the International Fair will be donated to MAWFA and social organizations of embassies.
The International Fair concluded successfully in the evening.
56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commemorative Book published
Yangon, 28 Feb — Hailing the 56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day, English Version Book Publishing Committee chaired by Deputy Minister for Culture U Soe Nyunt (Htila Sitthu) has the first, second and third prize-winning 56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commemorative poems, short stories, articles and essays translated into English and published the 2001 56th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commemorative Book.
The book features long poems written by Maung Sein Naung, Paing Yon (UDE), Maung Wun Tun, Mahuya Saw Lwin, Khin Le Le Chit (Myan/Gon), Saw Eindra Thet Maung, and Maung Soe Myat (ChaungU), poems by Aye Myo Kyi, Kaung Htet (Nyaunglebin), Aphaukmyay Maung Swe Mon, Pondaungmyaynay U Khet, Kyaw Swa Thu (Thayawady) and Maung Thant Sin, university, college and basic education high school and middle school level poems of Saw Eindra Thet Maung, Cadet Aung Ko Ko Thet, Maung Kyaw Min Aung, Ma Kay Kay Zin, Ma Aye Nyein Thu, Maung Khun Say Han, Ma Aye Pyi Phyo, Maung Pyi Sone Aung and Ma Ei Thiri Win, university, college and basic education high school and middle school level essays of Cadet Saw Kyi Than, Saw Eindra Thet Maung, Cadet Thein Min Hsan, Shumawa, Khin Swe Win, Pan Ei Phyu, Ma Izali Latt, Ma Zalat Phyu, and Ma Tinza Aung, articles by Naing Aung Swe, Tin Aye Hlaing, Phone Myint, Win Naing (Myitkyina), Maung Lu Thant and May Thiri Tun, and short stories by Ko Htway (Kalaw-GTI), Min Beda (Pwintphyu), Tekkatho Hnin Wai, Paing Yon (UDE), Maung Soe Htaik (Thonze) and Danuphyu Than Swe Thit.
Translators of the book are U Ba Than (MA), English Prof Daw Sein Sein Myint, KMO, U Khin Soe, U Myo Myint Thaung, U Thein Tun, Daw Moe Kyaw Myint, U Thein Htut, Daw Khin Aye Nwe, Daw Khin Than Htay, U Oo Lwin, Daw Khin Thida, U Aung Htoo, Daw Khin Myo Su, Daw Zin Min Kyaw and U Than Hlaing Thit.
The committee has published commemorative books yearly since the 48th Anniversary Armed Forces Day. Cover of the book was illustrated by Artist U San Toe. The book is available at Sarpay Beikman Book Shop, Book Shop of News and Periodicals Enterprise and Myawady Literary House.
Yangon, 1 March — The Myanmar Floriculturists Association held a fun fair at People’s Square here this morning. Patrons of the association Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe, wife of Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt, Lt-Gen Tin Oo’s wife Daw Khin Than Nwe and wife of Yangon Command Commander Daw Khin Thet Htay formally opened the ceremony. The fun fair includes games, magic shows, photo shows, model shows, traditional food shops, pharmaceutical shops, stationary and souvenir shops, and others. The fun fair continues tomorrow from 7 am to 6 pm.
International Relations
Commemorative Ceremony of ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year 2003 held
Yangon, 1 March — The Commemorative Ceremony of the ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year 2003 was held at the International Business Centre (IBC), on Pyay Road here today.
At the ceremony Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung and Ambassador of Japan Mr Yuki Miyamoto delivered speeches. Afterwards, the ministers, the deputy ministers and other invited guests viewed the ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year 2003 Commemorative Ceremony Photo Exhibition and the display of Japan traditional dolls.
It was learnt that Japanese Prime Minister Mr Koizumi proposed in early 2002 that year 2003 be designated as ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year and it became an ASEAN-Japan initiative to deepening mutual understanding and to bring about substantive benefits in the fields of economy, political and social cooperation.
In conducting commemorative activities for the ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year 2003 in all ASEAN countries and Japan and a coordinator country for each month has been designated. It is Myanmar’s turn to host the ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year for the month of March 2003.
As the coordinator country for ASEAN-Japan relations and being designated for March 2003, Myanmar is organizing the Arts and Photo Exhibition, TV broadcasting, publication of articles on ASEAN-Japan relations and cultural exchange activities for the ASEAN-Japan Exchange Year 2003.
The ceremony was attended by Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman’s Office Brig-Gen Abel, Minister for Foreign Affairs U Win Aung, Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing, Minister for Education U Than Aung, Chairman of the Civil Service Selection and Training Board Dr Than Nyun, deputy ministers, departmental heads, Myanmar-Japan Friendship Association Vice-chairpersons Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and Professor Dr Daw May May Yi and central executive members, ambassadors from ASEAN member countries, the People’s Republic of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, embassy staff and representatives from the UN agencies based in Yangon.
Yangon, 1 March — Mayor of Yuki City, Ibaraki province of Japan Mr Akira Hiratsukai and party donated two Isuzu fire engines to the Fire Services Department of the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement at the ministry this morning.
On the occasion Mr Akira Hiratsukai handed over the documents related to the vehicles to the director-general of the Fire Services Department. One fire engine will be sent to Panglong in Shan State (South).
The donation ceremony was attended by Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa, Officer on Special Duty Brig-Gen Thura Sein Thaung, directors-general of the departments under the ministry, Japanese Ambas-sador Mr Yuji Miyamoto and officials.
Minister U Win Aung leaves for Bangladesh
Yangon, 1 Mar — At the invitation of Mr M Morshed Khan, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, a Myanmar delegation led by Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Union of Myanmar U Win Aung left here for Dhaka this morning to pay an official visit to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
The Myanmar delegation was seen off at the Yangon International Airport by Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Khin Maung Win, directors-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Mr A B Manjoor Rahim, Ambassador of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.
Minister U Win Aung is accompanied by Director-General of the Department of Myanmar Missions Abroad U Ko Ko Kyaw and Director of the Political Department U Ye Myint.
Sport
Yangon, 1 March— The third round of Myanmar Open Golf Tourney 2003, organized by Myanmar PGA and Asian PGA and mainly sponsored by Rothmans of Pall Mall Myanmar Pte Ltd, continued at Yangon Golf Club in Danyingon this morning.
Among the spectators were Chairman of Myanmar Olympic Committee Minister for Sports Brig-Gen Thura Aye Myint and officials of the Ministry of Sports, President of Myanmar Golf Federation Maj-Gen Win Hlaing and executives, officials of Rothmans of Pall Mall Myanmar Pte Ltd and guests.
At 10-under par for the tournament, Knutzon and Lin finished one shot ahead of three other players tied in third place. The trio includes two former Myanmar Open winners, Thailand’s Thongchai Jaidee and South African James Kingston, and local Myanmar hero, Aung Win, who also shot a 67 in the third round. “I am happy to get a chance to be able to win this tournament,” said Knutzon who’s played only three tournaments in his first Asian campaign. “You want to be able to get yourself in a position where you have a shot at winning going into the last day and I’ve put myself in that spot.” Knutzon surged into contention in the second round with a 6 under par 66 and followed up with today’s best round to catch with Lin and edge ahead of Jaidee and Kingston. “I didn’t start out too well (at the tournament), but had a good day yesterday and scored well today despite a mixed round,” said Knutzon, whose home is in Des Moines in the state of Iowa. “I had kind of a lapse in the middle of the round.”
The hot, dry conditions took their toll on some players, including Lin, who had two bogeys on the 17th and 18th holes.
“Close to the end of the round, it was very hot. I felt right on the front nine, but the heat and tiredness caught me,” said Lin, whose low-key, consistent play is his hallmark. “But tomorrow I believe I will play better.”
Lin came to Myanmar after seeking a special invitation to play this Asian PGA event. He’s is returning from a string of successes in Japanese tournaments to a tour where he has enjoyed great success in past years. He won four individual Asian PGA tournaments over his Asian tour career and he was awarded the Order of Merit in 1995 with $177,856 in winnings.
Local Mynmar pro Aung Win is less well known, but he handled the heat, the course and the crowds of local well-wishers as he assembled a 5-under par 67 to race into the three-way tie for second place.
“Playing in front of the local galleries gives me a lot of pressure,” said Win, who has only ever played overseas in amateur competitions. “I admit I am concerned about their response, especially if I miss a shot.”
“Today my putting was very strong, which makes me confident,” said Win, who finished in 6th place at the Mynmar Open last year. “I think I can do the same tomorrow.”
The 18-hole tournament for the fourth day will be held on 2 March from 7 am. The Myanmar Open was organized by Han Event Management and Octagon.
