February 27 - March 4, 2012

myanmartimes
Myanmars first international weekly Volume 31, No. 616 1200 Kyats

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Whistle campaign a hit on city buses

By Cherry Thein A NOVEL campaign to fight sexual harassment on Yangons bus lines has quickly gathered pace, with companies, drivers and conductors and politicians all joining in the effort. Under the whistle for help campaign, about 150 volunteers have been distributing whistles and pamphlets to women at eight busy bus stops in Yangon each Tuesday morning in February. The group plans to continue the weekly program for another nine months. The pamphlet instructs women to blow the whistle when they experience sexual harassment on the bus. Please go and help the women who blow whistle and lets stop this unacceptable behaviour, the pamphlet said. The campaign and advocacy is not directed against all men but only those who commit these acts. The group has also requested support for its campaign from the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission. Daw Htar Htar, a member of the campaign committee, told The Myanmar Times that women regularly experienced sexual harassment on the citys bus network but they were usually too afraid or shy to report it. Our country is famous for Theravada Buddhism and its related culture and customs but this behaviour brings shame on all of us. We should not accept it anymore and have to stop it from now on, she said. Our body is not their sex object. Why should we keep silent with our head down? It is time to go against it. We cant work alone but need all helping hands to go against it so that we can create a beautiful, safe and secure environment. Over the past 30 years I myself faced this awful event sometimes and I always thought it was my fault, and kept silent even though I hated it so much. I am now over 40 so I dont have to worry as much about this problem but I am worried for my daughter, nieces and younger sisters. What if they meet these kind of detestable men? More page 4

Volunteers distribute whistles and pamphlets near Sule Pagoda on February 21. Pic: Seng Mai

Mooted salary rise splits opinion

unnecessary national projects funding would set a good example financial circumstances permit. Salary after tax should be K80,000 for future generations. were halted. Law makers have to analyse the or K90,000, the message said. He reiterated this point in a Thura U Shwe Mann argued formal message to the Pyidaungsu projects proposed with goodwill to Hluttaw Speaker U Khin Aung ensure that public funds are being the pay rise would ultimately be Myint on February 21, saying that used wisely, in the interests of an investment. If employees are good, the if financial circumstances permit, both the state and public. Its the minimum pay of government time to accurately carry out that government will be good. If the government is good, the state e m p l o y e e s s h o u l d be abou t important duty. and public will K100,000. enjoy benefit. The message, which was Really, I did it for the state, for the people. E m p l o y e e s spirits will lift and read out to the their discipline Pyidaungsu To justify a pay raise for will improve and they will Hluttaw on February 22, said this could happen on April 1 government staff, he said that achieve their full potential in the the beginning of 2012-2013 fiscal labourers in Nay Pyi Taw earned nation building. With this, future year using funding designated a minimum of K60,000 a month, challenges can be overcome. Earlier, Thura U Shwe Mann for projects that should not be rising to K90,000 after one years executed, particularly industrial, service and K150,000 after three said on February 17: My proposal was seconded by Pyithu Hluttaw agricultural and Nay Pyi Taw years. So the minimum pay [for civil representatives very much and projects. He said this reallocation of servants] should be K100,000 if I heard that almost all people

A PROPOSAL to raise the salaries of government staff has sparked fierce debate in the hluttaws. On February 7, Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann urged the government to raise salaries from April 1 in order to fight corruption but on February 16 the Minister for Finance and Revenue, U Hla Tun, rejected the plan, telling the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw it would not be practical until the 2013-14 fiscal year. However, Thura U Shwe Mann responded the next day that salaries could be increased if

and [government] employees welcomed it. But the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw speaker also told me: Some are unlikely to concur with [the proposal]. So you might ask why I submitted the proposal anyway whether I was stupid or whether I did it to win cheap popularity. Really, I did it for the state, for the people. From the national planning and budget discussion I found there are lots of projects that should not be done now. If these are halted, the money that could be diverted from them would be enough for a certain level of pay rise for our [state] employees, who are suffering financial hardships. More page 4

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Myanmar and the knowledge century

By Dr Nyi Win Hman THE 21st century is often described as the knowledge century. Information, communication, education and knowledge are pervasive in the developed world. Knowledge also seems to be a prerequisite for national wealth and power. Of course, there are other factors, such as natural resources, geography and human resources. However, education is perhaps the most crucial factor in lifting people out of severe impoverishment and lives of disadvantage. Given that education is the backbone of development, our country and people would benefit immensely from an improved and reformed educational system. We all know that reforms need to be implemented from the most basic primary education level to the highest tertiary stages. Myanmar has always suffered as a result of obsolete teaching and learning methods, whereby teachers spoon-feed students who in turn fall prey to a process of passive reception, rote learning and material regurgitation a most meaningless activity. From the most basic to the highest levels of education, we need to develop active student participation. Teachers should only provide stimulation and guidance, encouraging the learner to be self-motivated in their search for knowledge and acquiring skills. The entire educational process across the spectrum should be geared to developing critical thinking and reasoning, which are the essence of education. To achieve this we will need to develop a new breed of teachers, who will require training in the most up to date teaching methodologies. But the media, from print to broadcast and online, plays a significant and crucial role in provision and dissemination of information to the public. In much of the developed world mass communication permeates society. As the public usually also have a sound basic education, they are generally quite well informed about social, economic and political affairs of their own country as well as those of others. While there may be a substantial amount of material on television in the developed world that you could consider worthless from an educational perspective, there is also much that is intellectually stimulating. The availability of computers and access to reliable and fast internet connectivity is essential in a developing country. The internet is a valuable resource for acquisition of information and knowledge and as a result many countries in the world, especially developing nations, are vying to provide the most reliable and fastest internet access. Again, there may be much that is not intellectually stimulating, but the internet is an invaluable resource for obtaining information and knowledge, as well as conducting business. It is understandable that people who are very poor will usually often be preoccupied with simply making enough money to get by each day. The middle and upper socioeconomic strata of our society may also devote their lives more or less entirely to the acquisition of money and wealth. It seems that because Myanmar has lagged behind other countries and particularly our neighbours in socioeconomic development, its middle class is overly focused on catching up to them in terms of consumerism. It is probably for the same reason that we tend to be quite ostentatious in displaying our possessions and wealth. However, all this seems to be at the expense of other valuable qualities in life, such as the acquisition of knowledge. If our society, and particularly the elites, lacks education and knowledge, it could have a serious detrimental impact on the people as a whole. We must be aware of our own social and cultural values and question whether our society places a high premium on knowledge. A related but important issue is whether the government and the country can utilise the professional human resources that exist both inside and outside our country. The standard and quality of human resources in our country has deteriorated to a great degree. This is a deficiency that needs to be addressed; if the huge body of welleducated expatriates could somehow be utilised, it could facilitate development of our country. There is an urgent need to rectify the deficiencies in information, communication, education, and knowledge that exist in Myanmar. In order to fulfil this urgent need, a radical reformation of the entire educational system is necessary. We need to have conviction that a focus on education will be the primary avenue to development and narrowing the vast gap that exists between us and our neighbours. However, if the middle and upper classes adopt the attitude that acquiring wealth at any cost is the way forward, at the expense of a focus on education, then we cannot expect our poorer citizens to escape poverty or contribute to the development of our society and country. This choice and the subsequent way forward is our responsibility. (Dr Nyi Win Hman is a former associate professor of psychology at Yangon University and Britishtrained clinical psychologist who has worked in Malaysia and Australia and taught in Singapore.)

United States nowhere when it comes to Laos

CHINA and Vietnam are the twin planks that keep Laos afloat. Barely a month goes by without leadership delegations from Beijing and Hanoi descending on Vientiane, as they both have already done this month. That these visits are invariably fruitful is no surprise. Indeed, it is hard for anyone to visit Laos without falling in love with the place. The problem comes when you stay longer and try to conduct business or other activities that demand concerted effort and a deadline. For, by and large, Laotians reject the obsessive urge to seek material gain as fast as possible that drives modern life across the rest of the region. It appears to have always been that way. And many hope it always will be. Back in 1960, however, United States President Dwight Eisenhower did not think so and he urged his successor John Kennedy to focus on Laos, which, he claimed, was the cork in the bottle of Southeast Asia. More disastrously misguided advice is hard to imagine, and it caused Kennedy tremendous heartache. For rather than a cork, Laos is more like the dregs at the base of an old bottle of uncertain vintage that, for safetys sake, is best left undisturbed. Back then, though, Kennedy did not know this and was naturally perturbed, so he asked his man in Vientiane for a reading of the situation and of the folks there. Ambassador Winthrop Brown cabled back: Theyre charming, indolent, enchanting people. Theyre just not very vigorous. Hardly revelatory, but then Brown did add that Phoumi Nosavan, the rightwing military thug backed by the US Central Intelligence Agency, was totally useless and lacked battlefield experience. Two months later, upon receiving another similar cable, Kennedy fumed: General Phoumi is a total shit! He was. But he was also very proficient at setting up gambling and opium dens to make up a shortfall in revenue after Kennedy belatedly cut off aid in February 1962. The income from his illicit activities only bought Phoumi a short respite and three years later he was forced into exile in Thailand, where he died in 1985, as unremembered as most Lao leaders even the present ones. We all know Prime Minister Hun Sen. And already his relatively new counterparts like Malaysias Najib Razak, Myanmars U Thein Sein and Thailands Yingluck Shinawatra and are well known. But General Choummaly Sayasone? Who is he? Well, as his official biography reveals, Comrade Choummaly joined the revolution in 1954 and rose through the military ranks to become head of the armed forces. Then, after helping his fellow Pathet Lao Communists seize power in 1975, he continued rising and became head of the party and state president in 2006. Hes now been in charge for nearly six years, yet hardly anyone, except his colleagues in Beijing and Hanoi, recognises him. That may explain why those regular and highly significant visits also go mostly unnoticed. Earlier this month, for instance, a Chinese delegation led by former Shanxi governor Yuan Chunqing came to reaffirm major development assistance, like the highspeed rail project to link southern China with Vientiane. And this year, Soochow University, Chinas oldest private varsity, will open the countrys first overseas campus in Laos costing US$25 million. Not to be outdone, Vietnams President Truong Tan Sang arrived in Vientiane soon after to celebrate bilateral solidarity and endorse the special relationship between the two countries. Last month, Vietnams Long Thanh Golf Investment & Trade Co agreed to build Laoss first special economic zone, which will boost Hanois current $3.6 billion of investments in its neighbour. China remains Laoss largest investor, but Vietnam is its second largest and its prime political overlord. The Americans are nowhere in sight. Indeed, astonishingly, Laos has never hosted a cabinet-level official from the US. Although, when you read back over those ambassadorial cables, it is hardly unexpected. The Lao people may be indolent and lack vigour, but theyre not dumb.

MMA reduces fees at centre for elderly

A MYANMAR Medical Association day care centre for elderly doctors will be free of charge after paying an annual membership fee, an association spokesperson said last week. Dr Khin Maung Lwin, managing director of Fame pharmaceutical company, will pay the monthly salaries of the employees at the centre so that the service will be free for all association members. Membership of the association is K150,000 a year. The members can have free services and facilities now. We welcome more donors [to support] facilities for members, she said. Support Group for Elderly Doctors (SGED), a non-profit organisation formed under the aegis of the Myanmar Medical Association, opened the centre earlier this month. The purpose of opening this centre is to look after elderly people during the day, when their families are often away at work, said Dr Kyi May Thein, an executive member of SGED. The elderly may develop depression if they are alone. They should have social connectedness with others so they dont get lonely, she added. The centre is initially targeting elderly doctors aged 70 and over but hopes to expand to other elderly people later on. In Myanmar, about 8.4 percent of the population is above 60 years of age and SGED president Professor Myint Myint Khin said it was important their needs were met. Changing family structure and other social and economic changes have [resulted in] elderly people living alone, said Professor Myint Myint Khin, who is in her 80s. My feelings while living alone arent going to be different from my peers I know the needs of elderly people. As well as social interaction, visitors to the centre will have access to free physical examinations and medical care. Physiotherapy treatment and electrocardiograms will cost extra but will be subsidised and cheaper than private clinics, organisers say. Those who want to register or donate to the group can contact SGED on (01) 394-229 or 09-7302-8186. The support group is a non-profit organisation formed in 1999 and has more than 600 members, mostly elderly doctors. Yamon Phu Thit

The Mail Box

Dear editor, I AM an English teacher who read with interest the car substitution plan initiated by the government to get old cars off the road and replaced with newer ones. My main interest in this is really the licence or number plates that are disappearing. As a collector of old plates, I have taken photos of some of the old ones, two- and three-digit plates and even been able to obtain some of these old plates for my collection but I imagine that most of these old plates will vanish with the cars. I wonder if any reader out there also has a similar interest, and/or knowledge, as ideally I would like to find the history of all types of plates issued here from the time of the British in Myanmar up to the present day. Anyone who would be willing to help is welcome to contact me on aussipl8s@gmail.com. Thanks in advance for any help or advice given. Tr Pete, Yankin

Got something to say? We want to hear from you. Address all correspondence to the Editor, The Myanmar Times (English). We endeavour to respond to all correspondencei n a timely manner. Address: 379-383, Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Kyauktada township, Yangon. Telephone: (+951) 392-928, 253-642. Fax: (+951) 392-706 Email: your.myanmar.times@gmail.com

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MyanMar tiMes February 27 - March 4, 2012

Company lied about project for industrial zone: farmers

By Noe Noe Aung DISPOSSESSED farmers in a rural part of Yangons Mingalardon township are preparing to take their fight against one of the countrys largest firms to the courts. The farmers from Shwe Na Thar village say they only want their land back and are not seeking any compensation from the Zaykabar company, which acquired the land to construct Yangon Industrial Zone 4. Starting from February 2010, the company acquired 845 acres from 71 households with the help of two government officials in the village. About 100 acres remain in the hands of residents. Some of the farmers already received K300,000 each in compensation but they told The Myanmar Times on February 21 that they were tricked into accepting the money by the two officials. At first we were told that our land was being taken for a government project. All this farmland is owned by government and if the government wants it, we know we have to give it back. So we gave it to them without complaint, said farmer Daw Tin Sein. I am still keeping my other five acres. I didnt give it to them and didnt take any compensation, she added. Others have been left with nothing, however. I gave my 16 acres of farmland to them. The future of our family depends on that land. I dont want anything from [Zaykabar] except my farm, said Daw Tin Yi, 48. Ma Hnin Nandar, 38, said that the company bought her farmland, which was full of toddy palms, for K5000 a tree. The company cut down my plants but I still havent got my money, she said. For my childrens education and health we need money and we can back the land to farmers if they dont do agriculture on this farmland. And I noticed that the company reported to the government that the farmers do not want to farm anymore because they want to do another business and thats why they gave up their farmland. But thats totally wrong, U Nay Myo Wai said. The farmers are now preparing to take legal action against the company but said they would drop the case if the company returns the land. We are lost. Unless we dont get back our farmland, we will starve, one Mingalardon farmer said. The farmers said that it appeared as though Zaykabar had suspended its project. Officials from Zaykabar took the unusual step of holding a press conference to deny the farmers allegations. The companys general manager, Daw Mi Mi Thein Tan, told reporters on February 14 that the industrial zone project had government support. After March 2011 we continued our project with the permission of the government. And we got that permission through the government procedure, Daw Mi Mi Thein Tan said. Another company official said it was not possible for Zaykabar to do the industrial zone on its own. We got this agreement and allowance after reporting step by step to authorised people in the government. This is a joint project between Zaykabar, the Ministry of Construction and the Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development, he said. The official said the company was following the orders of the Yangon Region government.

Funding shortfalls threaten expansion of HIV treatment

By Douglas Long THE cancellation of an anticipated round of support by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria will result in a lack of new funding opportunities to expand treatment for HIV/AIDS in Myanmar until at least 2014, according to a report released last week by Mdecins Sans Frontires. The report, titled Lives in the Balance, said that in 2010 fewer than 30,000 of the estimated 120,000 HIV patients in need of antiretroviral treatment (ART) in Myanamr were receiving it. It said that up to 20,000 people living with HIV die annually in Myanmar because of lack of access to urgent lifesaving [ART]. By the end of 2011 Mdecins Sans Frontires (MSF), the biggest supplier of ART in Myanmar, was providing the treatment to more than 23,000 patients at 23 clinics nationwide, with an additional 6000 patients expected to be enrolled by the end of this year. Global Funds Round 9, now underway, is expected to help 50,000 people access ART by 2015, while Round 11, which was slated to start in that same year but has now been cancelled, would have paid for 46,500 additional patients on ART, helping to bring total coverage close to 100,000 by 2018, the report said. Peter Paul de Groote, MSF-Hollands head of mission in Myanmar, told The Myanmar Times on February 23 that the report was intended to send a straightforward message. At the end of the day its really about people in need of treatment. And for that you need money, and in this case you need international money. The main thing we want to highlight here is that we have people who, if you dont give them treatment, they will die, he said. The World Health Organisation recommends providing ART to patients with CD4 counts of less than 350, but in Yangon and Kachin State MSF can treat only to those whose levels have dropped below 150. CD4 is a measure of the immune systems suppression. Its just a very simple supply and demand question. Were overwhelmed by the people who present themselves, so we have to make difficult choices about the number of people we can take on, Mr de Groot said. Last weeks report also said that some Round 11 funding had been slated to improve coverage for the treatment of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death for HIV patients in the world, and MDR-TB has been shown to be almost twice as common in TB patients living with HIV, the report said. In the context of its fight against HIV, MSF provided treatment to about 3000 TB patients in 2011, about 70 of whom were MDR-TB patients in Yangon and Mandalay. Round 11 was intended to target new geographic coverage for MDR-TB, with plans for treatment centres in all states and regions, the report said. The plan was to reach a further 10,000 MDR-TB patients over five years. Lives in the Balance called on donors to help ensure the planned scale-up of HIV, TB and MDR-TB treatment went ahead by increasing funding to Myanmar and the Global Fund. From a donor perspective it just makes sense to put in money at a very early stage because you save lives, Mr de Groot said. If you start treating people while theyre more or less healthy it will cost less, because now were waiting until theyre so sick that we have to put a lot of money in to treat them.

A farmer from Shwe Na Thar township. Pic: Boothee get money only from our farms. I cant do anything except farming. I want my land back. Unless this happens my children will have many difficulties for their education. In mid-2011, the company began breaking down embankments, blocking canals and laying concrete roads. Farmers said the company told them on January 18 to move out by January 24 and that some of

village in Mingalardon (1963) states that civilians are not allowed to do other things with farmland besides agriculture, U Nay Myo Wai told The Myanmar Times. If the company has sold the farmland to others, this is not legal under the law, he added. U Nay Myo Wai said the farmers had initially told him that their land was acquired by the government. But later I came to understand that it

from I dont want anythingfarm. [Zaykabar] except my

their land had already been sold to unknown buyers from outside Mingalardon township. U Nay Myo Wai, chairman of the Peace and Diversity Party, which is based in Mingalardon township and has been helping the farmers raise awareness about their plight, said existing laws prohibited the company from selling the land. According to section four of the Act of Nationalisation of Farmlands (1953), farmland is not allowed to be bought or sold between civilians. And also the Law of Rental Lands for Cultivation was not the government just a private company that took advantage of their lack of knowledge. So I decided to get involved, he said. The notice the company distributed to farmers on January 18 gave some clues about the situation, he said. According to the papers attached to the notice, the government didnt give the farmland to Zaykabar for an industrial zone. Secondly, I noticed that the government told the company to run an agriculture business if they got the farmland and thirdly the company was told to give

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February 27 - March 4, 2012
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MYANMAR CONSOLIDATED MEDIA Ltd. Chief Executive Officer & Editor-in-Chief (MTM) Dr. Tin Tun Oo management@myanmartimes.com.mm drtto@myanmartimes.com.mm Editor-in-Chief (MTE) Ross Dunkley rsdunkley@gmail.com Chief Operating Officer U Wai Linn wailin@myanmartimes.com.mm Strategic Management Committee Dr. Tin Tun Oo (Chairman) Committee members Dr. Khin Moe Moe, Ross Dunkley, Bill Clough, U Min Sein, U Myint Maung, U Wai Linn, Thomas Kean (Editor-MTE) and U Zaw Myint (Editor-MTM) Senior Management Consultant U Myint Maung myintmaung@myanmartimes.com.mm oomyintmaung@gmail.com EDITORIAL newsroom@myanmartimes.com.mm Editor MTE Thomas Kean tdkean@myanmartimes.com.mm Editor MTM U Zaw Myint editormtm@myanmartimes.com.mm Editor Special Publications U Myo Lwin myolwin@myanmartimes.com.mm Business Editor MTE Stuart Deed stuart.deed@gmail.com World Editor MTE Geoffrey Goddard geoffrey@myanmartimes.com.mm Timeout Editor MTE Douglas Long editors@myanmartimes.com.mm Deputy Editor MTM U Win Nyunt Lwin winnyunt@myanmartimes.com.mm Business Editor MTM U Nyunt Win nyuntwin81@gmail.com Property Editor MTM Htar Htar Khin property@myanmartimes.com.mm Timeout Editor MTM Moh Moh Thaw Deputy News Editors Kyaw Hsu Mon, Yadana Htun Chief Political Reporter Shwe Yinn Mar Oo Contributing Editor Ma Thanegi mthanegi@mptmail.net.mm Head of Translation Dept U Ko Ko Head of Photographics Kaung Htet Photographers Aye Zaw Myo, Thet Htoo, Yadanar Manager Special Projects U Wai Linn wailin@myanmartimes.com.mm Book Publishing Consultant Editor Col Hla Moe (Retd) Editor: U Win Tun MCM Bureaus Mandalay Bureau Chief U Aung Shin koshumgtha@gmail.com Nay Pyi Taw Bureau Chief U Soe Than Lynn PRODUCTION production@myanmartimes.com.mm Head of Production & Press Scrutiny Liaison U Aung Kyaw Oo (1) Head of Graphic Design U Tin Zaw Htway MCM PRINTING printing@myanmartimes.com.mm Head of Department U Htay Maung Warehouse Manager U Ye Linn Htay Factory Administrator U Aung Kyaw Oo (3) Factory Foreman U Tin Win ADVERTISING advertising@myanmartimes.com.mm Sales & Marketing Manager Daw Linn Linn Soe Lwin linnlinn@myanmartimes.com.mm Account Director U Nyi Nyi Tun Classifieds Manager Daw Khin Mon Mon Yi classified@myanmartimes.com.mm Upper Myanmar Marketing Manager U Nay Myo Oo ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE Finance Manager Daw Mon Mon Tha Saing finance@myanmartimes.com.mm Assistant Admin Manager Daw Nang Maisy Publisher Dr Tin Tun Oo, Permit No: 04143 Systems Manager U Khin Maung Thaw webmaster@myanmartimes.com.mm DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Manager Daw Thin Thin Thet Paing distmgr@myanmartimes.com.mm Deputy Manager U Ko Ko Aung circulation@myanmartimes.com.mm ALL ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Telephone: (01) 253 642, 392 928 Facsimile: (01) 254 158 Email: management@myanmartimes.com.mm The Myanmar Times is owned by Myanmar Consolidated Media Ltd and printed by MCM Commercial Printing (licence provided by Swesone Media (08102) with approval from MCM Ltd and by Shwe Zin Press (0368) with approval from MCM Ltd). The title The Myanmar Times, in either English or Myanmar languages, its associated logos or devices and the contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of the Managing Director of Myanmar Consolidated Media Ltd.

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MyanMar tiMes
Stability of the State, community peace and tranquillity, prevalence of law and order Strengthening of national solidarity Building and strengthening of disciplineflourishing democracy system Building of a new modern developed nation in accord with the Constitution

Four political objectives

Building of modern industrialized nation through the agricultural development, and all-round development of other sectors of the economy Proper evolution of the market-oriented economic system Development of the economy inviting participation in terms of technical know-how and investment from sources inside the country and abroad initiative to shape the national economy must be kept in the hands The of the State and the national peoples

Four economic objectives

Uplift of the morale and morality of the entire nation of national prestige and integrity and preservation Uplift and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character Flourishing of Union Spirit, the true patriotism Uplift of health, fitness and education standards of the entire nation

Four social objectives

Farmers seek land bill changes

By Ei Ei Toe Lwin FARMERS from Ayeyarwady Region have sent a letter to the president and other members of the government and parliament that outlines seven points they believe need to be addressed for rural land reform laws. In this letter we outlined seven points to include in the Farmland Law. These points are very important for us and we think that they can solve our difficulties, said U Ohn Kywe, a farmer from Kyaung Su village in Bogale township. The letter, which was signed by 1421 farmers, was sent on January 21 to the president, speakers of the Pyithu Hluttaw and Amyotha Hluttaw, attorney general, hluttaw bill committees, chief minister of Ayeyarwady Region and local Pyithu Hluttaw representatives. Speaking to The Myanmar Times in Mawlamyinegyun in mid-February, farmers involved in the campaign said that they wanted their recommendations to be included in the Farmland Bill and Vacant, Fallow and From page 1 Virgin Land Management Bill, which are both currently in the process of being amended and approved by parliament. The letter was the result of a workshop held in Bogales Tae Pin Thit village on January 2 and 3 that was attended by farmers from Bogale, Kyaiklat and Mawlamyinegyun townships. Participants shared their thoughts on land use issues and discussed how these could be addressed under new land laws, distilling the issues to seven key points. These include the right to own farmland; use water resources their land; establish and register farmer associations, access adequate and reasonably priced credit; solve land conflicts through the courts as well as land management committees; sell produce on a stable market; grow the crops of their choice Myanma Agricultural Development Bank (MADB) provides loans of K40,000 an acre at an interest rate of 2 percent a month but this is not enough to cover paddy production costs. It costs me between K150,000 and K180,000 to grow an acre of paddy, said U Tin Oo of Kanyine Kone village in Kyaiklat township. My own capital is K80,000, and I get K100,000 from other sources but interest rates are so high I have to pay from 7pc to 20pc [a month]. We get K280,000 for 100 baskets, but it is not easy to get 100 basket from an acre. Often its only 70 or 80 baskets so when the price is down, after I pay all my debts I have no money left sometimes I even have to give my land to pay off the loan, said U Tin Oo, who also signed the petition letter. U Tint Lwin, a farmer from Kywe Chan Chaung Pyar village in Mawlamyinegyun township, said that while rice specialist companies offered cheap credit they also purchased paddy from farmers at below market prices. One of those rice specialist companies made the price unstable while buying paddy from us, said U Tint Lwin. Last year, one basket cost K3600 but the companies offered us K3400 and they cheated us on the weighing system. It is unfair because we also have to pay them interest on the loan. We facing so many problems, he said. And we cannot stand it any more. We have had bitter experiences for many years. Now we think its time to express our feeling and request our rights. U Ohn Kywe said that about two-thirds of the countrys population were involved in agriculture, and many were poor farmers trapped in a cycle of debt. The government should fulfill these seven points if they really want poverty alleviation. Another signatory, U Ohn Myint from Myinkakone village in Bogale, said the group expected at least five of the issues to be addressed in the new laws. According to the hluttaw discussion and an interview with U Htay Oo in [local media] we can get five points, except the right to own land and the right to register farmers associations. We also heard we will be able to grow crops we like and we can give back loans [to MADB] until March 31. Even though this has always been the official deadline they used to make us pay back loans at the end of February.

Mooted salary
He said there were many examples of government projects that had been poorly planned or unnecessary, such as factories with no electricity or natural gas supply or insufficient raw materials. My submission is of benefit to the public and the country. Reform will have to be done in order to bring development. If we do not bravely submit [proposals] like this, it is tantamount to betraying the public and the state. I believe that if we do not submit [proposals] when we are allowed to, it amounts to committing a wrongdoing. I vow today before representatives that I will risk my life for the benefit of the state and the people, he said. Thura U Shwe Mann had proposed raising government salaries to the same level as 1959-60 in real terms. However, U Hla Tun said if implemented immediately it would lead to a dangerously high deficit-toGDP ratio of almost 13 percent in 2012-13. If the budget deficit-to-GDP ratio is high, macroeconomic instability from a decline in purchasing capacity due to inflation and commodity price rises [could occur]. The circulation of money in the country was K5.6 trillion as at January, 2012 so if money is printed to cover the deficit it will be more than the amount of money in circulation. Inflation will go up and commodity prices will increase, he said. U Hla Tun said that 37,817 staff in 85 townships considered hardship postings would receive a wage increase from April 1 and a team of local and foreign experts

Myanmar Consolidated Media Ltd. www.mmtimes.com Head Office: 379/383 Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Telephone: (01) 253 642, 392 928 Facsimile: (01) 392 706 Mandalay Bureau: No.180, 74th Street, (Bet. 31st & 32nd streets) Chan Aye Thar San Township, Mandalay. Tel: (02) 24450, 24460, 65391, 65392 Fax: (02) 24460 Email: mdybranch@myanmartimes.com.mm Nay Pyi Taw Bureau: No. 10/72 Bo Tauk Htein St, Yan Aung (1) Quarter, Nay Pyi Taw-Pyinmana. Tel: (067) 23064, 23065 Email: capitalbureau@myanmartimes.com.mm

would be formed and tasked with deciding an appropriate pay increase for all government staff from 2013-14. The pay rise will be carried out. But if it is done in 2012-13, there will be some difficulties with the state budget that has already been submitted. Instead it should be done in 2013-2014 after preparations have been carried out, he said. He said increasing salaries to 1959-60 levels in real terms using the price of paddy as the baseline would raise the governments total wage bill from K911 billion to K3.309 trillion, a 360pc increase. The minimum salary would K82,000, while the top earners would take home K16 million a month, and another K107 billion would have to be spent each year on pensions. U Hla Tun said the budget deficit for 2012-13 would subsequently expand to K6.613 trillion a deficit-to-GDP ratio of 12.87pc. He said a doubling of wages w ou ld se e th e min i m u m and maximum salaries rise to K70,000 and K420,000 respectively and expand the deficit by K911 billion. If wages increased 50pc the deficit will be K3.152 trillion, with a deficit-to-GDP ratio of 6.14pc. Translated by Thit Lwin

Whistle campaign
In response to the campaign, Parami bus line and its Adipati subsidiary on February 14 began offering women-only services during the morning and evening rush hours, when buses are crowded and women more likely to experience

sexual harassment. However, it was not clear whether the company planned to offer the services regularly. Among those supporting the campaign is Yangon Region Hluttaw representative Daw Nyo Nyo Thin, who proposed women-only bus services during a hluttaw session in November 2011. When I submitted the proposal, they replied that it would affect the [bus lines] business but I want to test it first because I am sure women will appreciate the system. Besides, one or two buses during rush hour wont decrease their business much, she said. On February 14 I saw the Adipati bus line had launched a special bus for women during rush hour. I felt so thankful about this but it is not finished, we need to work more to sustain the situation. The campaign has also proven popular with commuters, with many requesting additional whistles to hand out to their friends, family and colleagues. Regular commuter Ma Nyein Nyein said a minority of men made her regular commute a nightmare. On one occasion I felt something behind me but I couldnt move because the bus was so crowded, we were like sardines. I was nervous and angry but I couldnt move. At the same time, a man greeted me hey nyimalay [little sister], long time no see, how are your parents and so on, she said. He tactfully came closed to me so that the other guy behind moved away. It was incredible. I didnt know him at all. I smiled at him and he smiled back and nodded as though he understood

the situation. This is how some men respect women. My experience is not as bad as some of my friends. I welcome the whistle campaign its definitely needed for women in our country. Bus drivers and conductors have also expressed support and encouraged the group to expand their campaign. U Tun Aung, a driver one the No 51 line, said sexual harassment had been tolerated on buses for too long and he praised the whistle for help organisers for devising an effective, non-violent campaign to stop it. If there is any way we can help, we are ready because this is happening on our bus. In the past if we tried to stop it [men] reacted violently ... but with this campaign we can send a similar message [in a non-violent way], he said U Tun Aung said the campaign should focus mostly on the evening rush hour. Campaign committee member Daw May Pale Thwe said she was grateful for the support of the bus lines and their staff. I was amazed. [Drivers] willingly helped us by stopping their bus so that volunteers could distribute whistles and pamphlets, she said. Many are now encouraging the group to expand the campaign outside Yangon. One volunteer said she met a man who asked for extra whistles and pamphlets to take back to his hometown of Yenangyaung in Magwe Region. He also told me similar stories [of harassment] on highway buses and encouraged our group to support the issue outside Yangon.

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In Meiktila, former NLD member to run against old party

By Kyaw Hsu Mon RESIDENTS of Meiktila are likely to be spoilt for choice in the April 1 by-elections, with a former member of the National League of Democracy registering as an independent candidate. Daw Myint Myint Aye told The Myanmar Times on February 15 that she was 100 percent confident that she would emerge victorious over her NLD and Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) opponents. A longtime Meiktila resident, 54-year-old Daw Myint Myint Aye was a member of the NLD since 1989 but she cut ties with the party after it nominated a senior member from Yangon, U Win Htein, as its candidate for the Pyithu Hluttaw seat of Meiktila. The seat had more than 195,000 registered voters in November 2010 and was won by U Thein Aung of the USDP with about 74pc of all eligible votes. He was later elevated to the Union Government as Deputy Minister for Industry 1. Daw Myint Myint Aye responded to the snub by filing an application to the election commission to run as an independent and was approved on February 13. I have a large number of supporters in Meiktila. I wanted to go into politics but the NLD didnt choose me as its representative so I decided to try and contest as independent candidate instead, Daw Myint Myint Aye said. She did not want to comment on the NLDs decision but said that over the past two decades she had formed a close rapport with the residents of Meiktila through her political activities and believed they would support her on April 1. The locals from villages around Meiktila, Wondwin, Thazi and Mahlaing know what I have done, she said. Ive worked a lot on human rights cases. The candidate who has been chosen by NLD for Meiktila is not a native. She said similar controversies had occurred in other areas of Mandalay Region where voting will take place on April 1. As well as the USDP and NLD, Daw Myint Myint Aye

The who candidate has been chosen by the NLD for Meiktila is not a native.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi campaigns in the Ayeyarwady Region town of Pyapon last week. Pic: Boothee

Government to consider ASEAN poll monitors

statement on February 21 that President U Thein Sein made the pledge to its secretary general, Dr Surin Pitsuwan, during talks in Nay Pyi Taw last week. We will seriously consider having observers from ASEAN ... during the April elections, U Thein Sein was quoted as saying. Foreign election observers and international media were not allowed into the country for that vote, which was denounced by Daw Aung San Suu Kyis opposition party and Western powers as lacking legitimacy. The National League for Democracy (NLD) held a news conference on February 20 to warn that the fairness of the April vote was also under threat because the party was being denied the use of suitable venues for campaign rallies. But just hours later the NLD said the authorities had eased the restrictions in a turnaround it described as very significant. The upcoming polls are being held to fill 48 seats vacated by those who have since become government and deputy ministers. AFP

YANGON The government has promised to seriously consider allowing Southeast Asian observers in the April 1 by-elections, ASEAN said in a statement last week. The April 1 polls, which will see Daw Aung San Suu Kyi stand for a seat in parliament for the first time, are viewed as a key test of the military-backed governments commitment to budding reforms. ASEAN said in a

is likely to face a candidate from one of the democratic parties that contested the 2010 election. She plans to start campaigning on February 17, and said she would make clear to voters that she was no longer associated with the NLD. Most of her close supporters are also former NLD members, she said. Daw Myin Myint Aye, who runs a business renting outfits to novices for novitiation ceremonies, vowed to continue her activism regardless of whether shes elected. I will keep working on cases where human rights have been violated. Translated by Thiri Min Htun

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A farmer sprinkles fertiliser on his rice field in Bago Region on February 20. Pic: AFP

Ayeyarwady Region farmers establish development group

By Ei Ei Toe Lwin FARMERS from Ayeyarwady Region have established an association to strengthen their land use rights and improve technical knowledge. The Farmer Development Association is based on more than 50 villagelevel groups, ranging in size from five to more than 30 members, formed recently in Bogale, Kyaiklat and Mawlamyinegyun townships. Towards the end of February each of these groups selected one representative to be a member of the Farmer Development Association, said Ko Tan Hlaing from Thatyetgaung village in Mawlamyingyun township. Members say the association will provide a support network for farmers whose land use rights have been infringed. They also plan to hold capacity building workshops, inviting experts to provide technical assistance and teach updated farming methods. Its time to establish an association that can protect the farmers life and promote their living standards. We are facing so many problems but there is no one to solve these problems except us, said U Tin Oo of Kanyinkone village in Kyaitlat township. A chief concern of farmers is losing their land to government and private sector projects When implementing a project for example a road we have to give up our land without compensation. Sometimes, we dont even have a place to live anymore and have to ask friends to let us stay on their land, said U Nyunt Swe from Patot village in Kyaiklat. We are afraid to speak out because we are poor and lack knowledge. But we have chosen representatives [for the Farmer Development Association] who are brave enough to tell the truth and stand firmly on the side of farmers. Ma May Thet Khaing from Kyankhinnsu in Bogale township said she had lost farmland to a Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) project in early 2011. She finally received K150,000 compensation in January 2012. In our township we saw [MOGE] digging and taking out oil, and then they built a road to transport the oil. Five villages in the area were affected, losing about 100 acres. They compensated for crops but not land because technically we dont own the land, she said. This project started in January 2011 but some farmers still havent got any compensation. One farmer lost all of his land and now he is in jail because he sold alcohol illegally to the [MOGE] workers. Organisers say they plan to expand the association from the existing three townships into other areas of the Ayeyarwady delta. In a recent letter to the president, senior government officials and members of parliament concerning the Farmland Bill, which is currently before parliament, the association also called on the government to formally allow farmer organisations. We expect this association will represent Ayeyarwady Region farmers, not just those of us in these three initial townships, so we put this point [the right to establish farmer organisations officially] in our request letter that we sent to the president. We must try to ensure our association is officially registered, said U Ohn Myint, a member from Thanlite village in Bogale township. But we think our association cannot stand on its own, with only support from farmers. It needs the support and cooperation of NGOs and other specialists from different sectors, said U San Maung from Chaungbayakyee in Bogale township.

Expert cautions on land grab model

By Thomas Kean A VISITING land expert has warned against falling for the dominant model of land grabbing, which sees small-scale farmers replaced by agri-businesses that are in many cases less productive. Mr Robin Palmer, who has worked on land issues for more than 35 years as both an academic and for British NGO Oxfam, said last week that population pressures and the increasing consumption of meat and dairy products in developing countries were often used to justify plantation farming, with peasant farmers and traditional pastoralists dismissed as romantic nonsense. In the context of global land grabbing this is the dominant model, he told The Myanmar Times in Yangon on February 21. Its curious because land has been a source of conflict in many places yet despite that governments are giving it away. Aside from the social consequences, Mr Palmer, who has worked in Africa, Asia and Latin America, said there was also little evidence that plantation farms were more efficient or productive than smallholdings. This was reinforced at the International Conference on Global Land Grabbing at the University of Sussexs Institute of Development Studies in April 2011, which featured more than 100 papers on land issues. One of the points that came up was that none of the research papers that were presented at this conference produced evidence that this large-scale model is actually delivering jobs, technological transfer the promises that were offered in return for land grabs, long term land leases or whatever you want to call them. It just wasnt coming through, he said. You could say that its too soon but theres just very little evidence for the success of this model in the current context but ideologically [support for] it is very strong. For many people in governments in Africa, its We are urban, intelligent, educated; those people out there are backward, stupid and ignorant, they need to be told what to do, they dont know how to farm. Its a kind of arrogance and ignorance together, which Virgin Land Management Bill. As The Myanmar Times reported last week, both Myanmar and foreign experts have called on parliamentarians to delay approval of the laws in order to conduct further consultations. Nobel Prizewinning economist Professor Joseph Stiglitz warned recently that passing the wrong land law could really be very, very troublesome. Other sources say the laws have major gaps that could be exploited for land grabs by large agricultural firms, particularly in the case of land used for shifting cultivation, or taungya. Government figures show that Myanmar has of the total concession area was being planted. Mr Palmer said he found land grabbing a truly scary phenomenon, and said it was a huge issue in Cambodia and Laos. Youve had your own experiences here and may have more in the future, if things go badly. However, there are examples of countries where land grabbing has been avoided through strong land tenure security. Much of Mr Palmers work with Oxfam was set in the context of post-Cold War pressure for privatisation of land from the World Bank and others and the impact being the demand for new land laws and policies to reflect that. Oxfam and other groups responded by engaging in advocacy work trying to support dialogue between civil society and governments, helping to set up national land alliances in countries like Uganda, Tanzania and Kenya, which Mr Palmer said was on the whole fairly successful. Part of my work involved trying to get government and civil society people to talk to each other seriously but I found that there was often a huge cultural divide between the two. He said that while he would question the wisdom of slowing down the process of introducing land reform a key issue was, do you trust the legal system enough to implement a law? In principle, the more dialogue, the more buy-in you achieve when drafting a law the better. The more you listen to different points of view and perspectives rather than rush through something the better.

Trade Mark CauTion

NOTICE is hereby given that The Garden Company Limited of 58 Castle Peak Road, KOWLOON, HONG KONG is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

You've had your own experiences of land grabbing here and may have more in the future, if things go badly .
helps explain why theyre doling out land all over the place yet we all know that the potential long-term implications of this are pretty serious in terms of poverty, food security and more. What you find in many parts, including Cambodia, is deals being done behind closed doors, communities have no idea that their land is leased rather than sold and often for very long periods, 99 years in some cases. In Myanmar, the issue of land-grabbing has been raised by land rights groups urging changes to two land laws currently before parliament: the Farmland Bill and Vacant, Fallow and already granted significant agricultural concessions to private companies, particularly in Tanintharyi Region and Kachin State. In January 2010, the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigations Department of Agriculture Planning reported that farmland concessions totalling 1.75 million acres had been granted to 216 Myanmar companies, some of which were operating with foreign partners. But a report released last week by the Transnational Institute Financing Dispossession: Chinas Opium Substitution Program in Northern Burma quoted a former director of an agriculture department as saying only about 20 percent

(reg: no. iV/4360/2005) The said trademark is in respect of:Bakery Products; bread, pastry, cakes; moon cakes; sweet and savory pies, sweet and savory biscuits, wafers, cookies, crackers, confectionery, chocolates; noodles, spaghetti and pasta products Class: 30 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for The Garden Company Limited P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 27th February, 2012

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current economy that needs to be reformed to turn the governments talk about a market economy into reality. Most ordinary people have little interest in the lack of independence of the Central Bank and other issues related to fiscal mismanagement but they know the ill effects well. The use of multiple exchange rates is another pressing issue, and one that has held back liberalisation of the economy for decades. Recently, the International Monetary Fund conducted a fact-finding mission with a view to assisting the government with reunification of the exchange rates. Ko Kyaw Myint Soe, a resident of Hlaing Township who is completing a masters degree at the Yangon Institute of Economics, said: I dont know what they will do it but I want to point out that having cronies in the banking sector is a risk for the market, especially when theyve been given permission to exchange foreign currencies at a floating market rate while the official rate is still K6 to the dollar. It looks like another official exchange rate has emerged. Another major policy, introduced primarily to bolster demand for US dollars, has allowed some, such as those Myanmar working abroad and paying tax, and those with more than US$30,000 in a Myanmar bank account, to import cars from abroad. I think this is good for us, but doesnt do anything for poor people, said one person who had received permission to import a car. Nobody cares about them. For now, President U Thein Sein still has the backing of many urbanites despite few improvements to their standard of living. I support him and also congratulate him for all his achievements so far, especially in terms of breaking the political deadlock both inside and outside [the country], said 58-year-old Tarmwe township resident U Sein Htay, who runs a small grocery store. But I hope to see more done to help the poor, who make up the majority of the population.

For the poor, change a long way off

By Bo Bo KO Tun Min had worked as a scissor sharpener for most of his adult life. While his wage was not spectacular, it was enough to get by and support his wife and three children that is, until his regular customers slowly dried up. This is my only profession, I cant do anything else. Ive got no idea what I can do to look after my family, said Ko Tun Min, who is in his 40s and lives near Thingangyun Railway Station. Like many blue collar workers he has not matriculated, dropping out at the end of middle school. But he has a keen interest in politics and has been closely following the changes that are taking place in Myanmar. But while he is hopeful these changes will lead to greater economic development and more opportunities for his family, they have done little to alleviate his current plight. The direct cause of his unemployment was customers opting for cheaper, Chinese-made scissors, which are imported to Yangon through border trade. Most of his former colleagues have either been made redundant or about to be laid off and have few apparent prospects for new work. I thought the changing politics would be good for us, but that hasnt really been my experience so far. I dont know about other people though, he said. I hope it gets better soon. Recently, the government raised ticket prices on the Yangon circle line from K10 to K100, a further blow to those like Ko Tun Min who rely on this heavily subsidised form of public transport to get around the city. The government also significantly increased electricity prices from January 1 in an attempt to reduce its large budget deficit, while postal charges also increased on December 14. There were reports that some customers, unaware of the changes, had to return home without sending their mail because they didnt bring enough money.

A child in downtown Yangon. Pic: Kaung Htet One post office employee said they couldnt even afford to send a package overseas on their government salary of about K30,000 a month. Our salary is barely enough to send four or five small packages to foreign countries like the United States or United Kingdom, the worker said. Of course, it would great if our salary was increased at the same time as they increased the postal charges. But hopes are high that economic reform and with it, better jobs and a more secure financial future is on the way. For the first time in decades, poverty alleviation is officially back on the agenda in Myanmar. In his inaugural speech on March 30, 2011, President U Thein Sein made tackling poverty a priority and ambitious reduction targets were subsequently set at both national and regional levels. Last year, the United Nations Development Program announced that a survey had found the percentage of the population living below the poverty line defined as K754 a day had fallen from 32pc to 26pc in the five years to 2009-10. But the figures dont seem to match the experience of the countrys urban poor, who say they are struggling more than ever. The situation for trishaw drivers like me here in Yangon is getting worse each year. I am thinking about changing jobs because I just cant support my family any more, said Ko Zaw Htet says. Most urban poverty alleviation programs take the form of microfinance. In many cases the finance is offered by the Union Solidarity and Development Party. The programs are generally good, especially when you consider there wasnt really anything like this available in the past. But the people implementing the program lack technical skills and experience with microfinance, Daw Sein Htay, who sells flowers in a small market in South Dagon township, said after receiving an K80,000 loan. One positive step the new government has taken was to substantially increase pensions in June 2011. But while beneficial for recipients, it has brought difficulties for others. As a result of the pension being increased, general food prices also went up. But our salaries have stayed the same, said civil servant Daw Aye Mu Myint, 53. I want to retire as soon as possible because I can live more comfortably if I work another job while receiving the pension. Raising government salaries is likely to have a similar, if not more pronounced, effect on inflation. On previous occasions prices began rising even before the news was officially announced and, with such a large informal economy, the government has few effective mechanisms for managing prices. The Central Bank of Myanmar remains under the control of the Ministry of Finance and Revenue, hindering its ability to independently manage monetary policy. This is just one aspect of the

Gambira to face trial: state media

YANGON A leading dissident Buddhist monk who was among hundreds of prisoners of conscience released last month is to face trial, state media said last week. Ashin Gambira will have to face the charges of squatting in one monastery in Yangon and breaking into two others, which led to him being detained briefly by police earlier this month, the state-run New Light of Myanmar said on February 19. The newspaper said authorities are taking legal steps to bring [him] to trial. Since being let out of prison in January, Gambira has breached regulations by breaking into monasteries closed by the government after the monk-led demonstrations, a government official said on the day he was detained. AFP

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Scattered values united under Shwedagon

By Cherry Thein FIVE leading Buddhist monks delivered sermons to audiences numbering in the tens of thousands at Pyi Thu Yin Pyin public square in Yangon from February 17 to 21, to mark the 2600th anniversary of Shwedagon Pagoda. Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara, a professor at Yangon-based Sitagu International Buddhist Academy who spoke on February 19, said the study of Shwedagon Pagoda encompassed not only religion, history and culture, but also literature, art, architecture, philosophy, society and politics. He related the legendary history of Shwedagon, in which two brothers named Tapussa and Bhallika are said to have travelled from Yangon (then known as Okkalapa) to India where they met Gautama Buddha, who had gained enlightenment only a few weeks before. These brothers from Myanmar were the first to give alms honey cakes to the Buddha, and they were also the first to receive the teachings of the Buddha, Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara told the crowd during a two-hour sermon. He said the brothers were also the first disciples to recite the first two books of what would later be know as the Tipitaka, the three-part collection of the canonical works of Theravada Buddhism. Tapussa and Bhallika also asked the Buddha for a gift they could take home for worship. The Gautama Buddha gave them eight hairs, which the brothers enshrined at the site of Shwedagon Pagoda along with relics from three previous Buddhas. The Shwedagon stands magnificently on top of Singuttara Hill, where In 1920, a group of senior students from Rangoon College, as Yangon university was then called, decided to boycott the British-proposed University Act, which they believed only benefited the elite and entrenched colonial rule, he said. He said that subsequently, the pagoda became the site of a number of political activities throughout the 1920s and 1930s, including another large student protest in 1936, and a rally in 1939 in which workers and poor people joined hands to demand better opportunities from the government. In 1946, amid escalating calls for independence, General Aung San, the father of modern Myanmar, delivered a historic speech to a mass rally [at Shwedagon] calling on the public to launch a general strike should the British not grant the country freedom from colonial rule, he said. They believed that camping on the holy ground of Shwedagon would support their efforts. They made votes and vows to achieve their ends. The most admirable aspect of this is that all scattered values are united under Shwedagon Pagoda, Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara said. It is because we Myanmar cherish religion, and because we have paid respects and cherished it generation after generation, that Shwedagon has become what it is today, he said. He said Shwedagon Pagoda was the heart of Yangon as well as all the people of the country. It is also the most revered Buddhist site in the country. It is our religious duty to protect the heart of the country and of the people for the future propagation and progress of Theravada Buddhism, Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara said.

Buddhist nuns arrive at Shwedagon during festivities celebrating the pagodas 2600th anniversary. Pic Boothee relics the walking stick of Kakusandha, water filters of Konagamana and the lower robe of Kassapa were enshrined together with the hairs of Gautama Buddha in what became Shwedagon Pagodas relic chamber, Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara said. Multiple pagodas of gold, silver, bronze, tin, copper, lead, iron and marble were later built one on top of the other to enshrine the relics, he said. The pagoda was originally substantially smaller than its current height of 98 metres (323 feet), but over the centuries several kings including King Duttabaung from Sri Ksetra, near modern-day Pyay have built on top of previous structures. He said that one of the most prominent figures in the history of Shwedagon was the Mon queen Shin Saw Pu (1453-1472), who fled Inwa and settled in Yangon (then known as Dagon), devoting the rest of her life to renovating and repairing the pagoda. To this day, he said, there is a pagoda and street named after Shin Saw Pu in Sanchaung township to honour the queens devotion to Shwedagon. Sayadaw Dr Ashin Nyanissara said Shwedagon Pagoda was also intertwined with many historical and political events in Myanmar. The pagoda sustained some damage from fighting during the Second AngloMyanmar War in 1852. After the Myanmar were defeated, the English troops settled at Shwedagon. They buried their dead in the pagoda compound and destroyed several stupas and statues while looting the gold and jewels, he said. Eventually the English governor told them to stop, as he understood they were destroying the heart of the people of Myanmar. Several members of the nationalist movements that rose under the British colonial rule also set up camp in the pagoda compound, he said.

Surin satisfied with Myanmar ASEAN chair prep

By Kyaw Hsu Mon THE Association of Southeast Asian Nations was satisfied with the preparations being made by Myanmar to chair the regional organisation in 2014 but more needs to be done, the ASEAN secretary general, Dr Surin Pitsuwan, said last week. Im very satisfied with the determination, awareness of responsibilities and Im satisfied with the expressions of commitment, Dr Surin told The Myanmar Times on February 23, while emphasising that with only two years before Myanmar chairs the regional body, there is a lot of things of prepare here. Dr Surin spoke to The Myanmar Times after an address at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Myanmar in Yangon at which he said the preparations needed to chair ASEAN included both infrastructure, capacity building and what he called software issues. However, he said his discussions in Nay Pyi Taw during his visit last week had given him much optimism. Dr Surin praised the changes in Myanmar since Cyclone Nargis in 2008 when he tried unsuccessfully to be issued with a visa in the aftermath of the disaster. Things have been transformed, he said. In statement issued in Nay Pyi Taw on February 22 after a meeting with the Foreign Minister, U Wunna Maung Lwin, Dr Surin said Myanmars chair of the regional grouping in 2014 would be a critical landmark in the history of ASEAN. He said this would partly be because Myanmar would be responsible for wrapping up and tying the loose ends before handing over to Malaysia the transit from your chair, which ends on 31 December 2014. There will be a lot resting on your shoulders. The statement quoted U Wunna Maung Lwin as acknowledging that chairing ASEAN would be a major task for Myanmar and we want to make sure we are prepared for the challenges ahead. The minister said preparations for the chairmanship role would include sending officials on visits to the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta as well as sending teams to study the organisation of meetings this year in Cambodia, the current chair. Dr Surin arrived in Myanmar on February 20 on a four-day visit which included trips to the Ayeyarwady Delta region as well as Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon. His itinerary included meetings with President U Thein Sein, senior government officials, members of the business community and civil society organisations and the chair of the National League for Democracy, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, whom he met at her Yangon home on February 22. At the meeting Daw Aung San Suu Kyi urged that ASEAN play a role in helping to create a bridge between Myanmar and the rest of the world.

ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan (L) and Aung San Suu Kyi speak to the media in Yangon on February 22. Pic: AFP

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Curfew set for internet shops

By Aung Kyi TOWNSHIP authorities have instructed internet cafes in Yangon to close by 11pm or face as-yetunspecified penalties, cafe owners said last week. We have received a warning from the township administrative office to close the shop by 10pm and no later than 11pm, an employee at Password internet cafe in Ahlone township said last week. Officials from the township administrative offices have even asked internet cafe owners to sign a document confirming that office but the officials didnt say what action they would take if they find shops are still open after 11pm, said the owner of an internet cafe in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township, who asked not to be named. But internet cafe owners said it was unfair that they had to close their businesses at 11pm when restaurants, beer stations and nightclubs regularly stayed open until the early hours of the morning. It is not fair restaurants with stage performances, beer stations and nightclubs are still allowed to open into the night in the same township, the owner of the Mingalar Taung Nyunt township internet cafe said. He said some customers preferred to use the internet at night when the connection speed was usually faster. It is also unclear under which laws internet cafe owners will face sanction. Some owners suggested it could be administrative rules that require Myanmar citizens to inform or apply for permission at township administrative offices if they are staying overnight outside their registered residence. Breaches of this rule can attract a fine or imprisonment of up to two weeks. U Aung Win, the owner of a language school in Tarmwe township, said it was a pity that we have such bureaucratic rules and laws. I worked in Japan for more than 10 years and I never heard of such a rule, he said. Many department stores, restaurants and factories operate 24 hours a day, using day and night shifts.

The officials didnt say what action they

would take if they find shops are still open after 11pm.

Vijay Nambiar, UN special envoy to Myanmar, talks to reporters after his meeting with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at her residence in Yangon on February 16. Pic: AFP

they had received the warning, the owner of an internet cafe in Ahlone said. Yangon City Development Committee-run daily newspaper Myothaw reported on February 16 the internet caf curfew had been issued by the Yangon Region administrative office because the matriculation examination is drawing near. However, the article did not say whether the order would be lifted once matriculation exams end on March 22. I have also received a warning to shut down my internet cafe by 11pm by the ward administrative

UN calls for reforms to benefit all

YANGON A top UN official urged the government to ensure that its reform drive benefits citizens in sectors such as healthcare and education. Mr Vijay Nambiar, special adviser to the UN chief on Myanmar, made the appeal on February 17 at the end of a fiveday visit during which he met key figures including President U Thein Sein and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Nearly one year after a mostly civilian government took over from outright military rule, Mr Nambiar praised the changes under way, which have attained an unprecedented level of initiative, a UN press release said. The priorities he highlighted on his visit included credible byelections on April 1, peace with ethnic rebel groups and deliverance on the needs of the people, so that they start benefiting in real terms from the reforms so far. Health, education and job creation remain key responsibilities for both central and local authorities in order to empower people to participate fully and equitably in the countrys development and growth, said the statement. Only with sound economic policies can the change be accelerated in the interest of the entire population of Myanmar, it added. The new government has begun to usher in a string of reforms, including the release of hundreds of political prisoners. The progress has been hailed by Western powers who are mulling easing sanctions on Myanmar. AFP

Public submissions called for climate change draft report

By Aye Sapay Phyu THE Department of Meteorology and Hydrology is inviting public submissions on the first draft of a UN-backed climate change adaptation report, a spokesperson said earlier this month. The department began will accept submissions on the Preparation for National Adaptation Programs of Action (NAPA) on climate change until March 12, said project coordinator U Aung Win. The draft report presents priority projects to address the need for adapting to the adverse effects of climate change in terms of agriculture, forestry, biodiversity, coastal zone, energy, transport, industry, public health and water resources. The proposed projects include reforestation, improved weather forecasting equipment and a reassessment of the countrys dams and reservoirs. The public review and suggestions on the draft will support the main theme of the project, which is to present the projects that need to be prioritised [for Myanmar] to adapt to climate change. This is the reason why we have invited the public to participate in reviewing the draft, he said. The department, which is under the Ministry of Transport, is steering the implementation of the project as the project executive agency, while United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) is also involved on behalf of the Global Environment Facility. The NAPA project was launched in March 2011 and the final draft is expected to be finished by the end of April, with input from the public, government ministries and non-government organisations. It also considered rural public assessments on climate change, variability, impacts and adaptation collected in Nyaungshwe [in Shan State], Kyaukpadaung [in Mandalay Region] and Bogale [in Ayeyarwady Region] in July and August 2011, and national strategies on climate change, he said. The NAPA experts group has proposed eight priority adaptation measures: integrating climate resilience into agricultural production for food security in rural areas; developing forest in environmentally fragile areas; establishing a marine protected area near an island group in Myeik Archipelago; integrating coastal zone management; establishing a weather radar system for detecting and minimising impacts of natural disasters; constructing disaster-resilient health facilities in Rakhine State and Ayeyarwady Region; reevaluating existing dams and reservoir; and establishing solar-powered water purification systems for fresh drinking water and water pumping for irrigation. Copies of the draft report and public review forms are available at the NAPA office, in the Lower Myanmar Department of Meteorology and Hydrology office at No 50, Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, Mayangone township, Yangon. Those who send back review forms are eligible for a lucky draw, with eight prizes ranging from K300,000 to K50,000.

TiMESbusiness
By Soe Sandar Oo MYANMAR workers in Malaysia can transmit money home using the Ayeyarwady Bank from February 10, a bank spokesperson said last week. We have linked up with Q-Remit, a Malaysian company that is licensed to transmit money abroad, said U Than Zaw, the managing director of Ayeyarwady Bank. We will maintain counters there with staff who can read and write in both Myanmar and English, he said. Myanmars Central Bank allowed four private banks: Ayeyarwady, Asia Green Development (AGD), Cooperative (CB) and Kanbawza to offer international money transfers from January 1. He said the bank would maintain two counters in Q-Remit branches in Kuala Lumpur and Malacca, which host the largest Myanmar populations. The company will charge 12 ringgit (about US$3.97) for transfers of up to 1500 ringgit ($497), 15 ringgit ($4.97) for 1500-3000 ringgit ($497-$993) and 20 ringgit ($6.62) for 3000-6000 ringgit ($993-1987), he said. A total of 11 workers have transmitted money to Myanmar from the first day we offered the service. Most of them transmitted more

February 27 - March 4, 2012

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Ayeyarwady Bank begins remittance service

However, he said the banks offered a level of safety with their remittances that was missing from the hundi network. But he said it would take time to convince all overseas Myanmar to use the legal channels. U Than Zaw said 10,000 ringgit ($3311) had been transferred to Myanmar since February 10 but added that the payments can only go one way families in Myanmar cannot send money to workers in Malaysia yet. CB managing director U Phey Myint said the company was preparing to open a remittance branch at Singapores Peninsula Shopping Mall, which is a hub of Myanmars expatriate community in the city. We will start during March but there has been some delays while we negotiate with other banks. I have heard that Ayeyarwady Bank has already started remittance services but Ive not heard of others yet, he said. U Aung Kyaw Myo, deputy managing director of Kanbawza Bank, said: We need more time to choose a correspondent bank to work with. But we expect that we will begin offering services in Thailand in late April or the first week of May so that Myanmar working in Thailand can easily and safely transfer money home, he said.

Japan to resume Myanmar loans after 25 years

TOKYO Japan is moving to resume loans to Myanmar after a quarter of a century, a report said on February 23, the latest move by the world community to bring the country in from the cold. Tokyo hopes to reach an agreement with Myanmar on a conditional resumption of the loans to be used for infrastructure projects such as ports and railways at a summit in late April, the Nikkei newspaper said. Japan has made no new official yen loans to Myanmar since a military coup and fierce crackdown at the end of the 1980s, which came amid mounting fears in Tokyo over huge unpaid arrears the Southeast Asian nation had already built up. Unlike major Western nations, Japan has maintained trade ties and dialogue with Myanmar, warning that a hard line on the ruling junta could push it closer to neighbouring China, its main political supporter and commercial partner. Myanmars Asian allies, among them Thailand as well as China, already have a foot in the door and their firms are involved in hydropower, port and gas pipeline projects. Japan has continued to provide humanitarian and emergency aid to the country, but halted regular economic assistance such as grants in 2003 following the arrest and detention of democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Tokyo will make the restart of the yen loans conditional on a resolution of Myanmars outstanding debts and the by-elections being fair, the Nikkei said. AFP

Security guards stand watch outside an Ayeyarwady Bank branch in Yangon. Pic: Myanmar Times Archive/KK than 1000 ringgit [$331] but one of them sent 6000 ringgit [$1987] to Kalay township [Sagaing Region], he said. He said branches in Chin and Shan states were the most popular end destination for transfers so far. U Than Zaw said the exchange rates from ringgit to US dollars was calculated and released by Malaysias May Bank, and then converted to kyats according to the daily exchange rate at the Thein Byu exchange counters in Yangon. Workers can see on their receipt how much money their family will receive in Myanmar, he said. Ko Nyan Sint, a factory worker in Malaysia, said overseas workers would continue to use the illegal hundi remittance network for transfers of less than 1000 ringgit. The hundi network is an illegal web of businesspeople around the world that allows people to transfer money without paying any tax. The network is extensively utilised by Myanmar workers abroad who remit money back to their families. Hundi agents do not charge fees as such but offer a slightly lower exchange rate than the going market figure. If we transmit less then 1000 ringgit then we have to pay 12 ringgit, which is more expensive than using the hundi agents, he said. But if were planning to send more than 1000 ringgit then its worthwhile using the bank, he said.

Speculation grows on WB return

THE World Bank could return to Myanmar if it makes moves to pay off the debts it owes to international financial institutions and holds free and fair by-elections on April 1, according to news reports last week. The World Bank had frozen lending to Myanmar since 1987, the Wall Street Journal reported on February 16, quoting a statement from the banks vice president for East Asia and Pacific, Ms Pamela Cox. We are encouraged by developments in Myanmar and we have begun the process of re-engaging with the government to support reforms that will benefit all of the people of Myanmar, including the poor and vulnerable, Ms Cox said. She told Wall Street Journal that the bank would conduct a public expenditure review highlighting the importance of budget transparency, and would work with civil society organisations to promote social accountability and open communications in Myanmar. In early February the United States, which is the World Banks largest shareholder, dropped a sanction on barring international financial institutions from offering assistance to Myanmar but other measures that block new lending remain in place. Dr Aung Htun Thet, a senior adviser at the UN Resident Coordinators office and an economist, said he had no information as yet on what support the World Bank would provide if it returned to Myanmar. However, he said many developing nations coveted World Bank support because it offered low interest rates on its loans. But what might be important is the change to get advice from the World Bank on Myanmars economic policy, he added. I usually suggest [that] Myanmar should write a poverty reduction strategy paper in cooperation with the World Bank and the International Money Fund [IMF], which other countries have done in the past, he said. Dr Aung Htun Thet said the World Bank usually encourages increased spending in education, health and agriculture, and would also offer advice on unifying the exchange rate. The IMF is already working with Myanmars government on unifying the countrys multiple exchange rates and issued a statement on its efforts to date on January 24 following its latest Article IV Mission. Dr Aung Htun Thet said he expected the World Bank would also encourage development of transport and telecommunications infrastructure with any lending it might provide. Economist U Maw Than, who is a retired rector of the Yangon Institute of Economics, said Myanmar would almost certainly get technical support from the World Bank, just like IMF missions, even though no financial support had been granted yet. The governments performance is important, he said. It should hold free and fair by-elections including the National League for Democracy on April 1, he said. He added that the work to unify the exchange rates would likely start on April 1, the first day of the 2012-13 fiscal year. U Than Lwin, a vice chairman of Kanbawza Bank, said World Bank lending assistance in other countries has focussed on infrastructure such as roads, bridges, dams and factories. They also have expertise on [developing a] green economy, which I think we cant get anywhere else, he said. The World Bank mainly aids government projects, he said, but would also support Myanmars Central Bank micro financing to develop agriculture and reduce poverty. Also, we dont need to get stressed about repaying [all of our] debts at once, we have to pay the overdue ones first, he said. Associated Press news agency reported on February 1 that Minister for Finance and Revenue U Hla Tun told the hluttaws on January 31 that Myanmar owes US$11 billion in debts that date back decades. U Hla Tun said $8.4 billion in debt dated from the socialist regime of the late General Ne Win between 1962-1988 and $2.61 billion debt was incurred after a military government took over in 1988. An Associated Press report said Myanmar was working with Japan and Italy to repay the debts.

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Yoma Strategic eyes Myanmar growth

By Staff Writers SINGAPORE-listed Yoma Strategic Holdings plans to increase its holdings in Myanmar by buying 70 percent of the Thanlyin Star City housing development, the company announced on February 13. A Yoma Strategic press release said the company will pay S$91 million (US$72.4 million) to buy 135 acres of land in Thanlyin township beside the Bago River from SPA Group. The deal, which is subject to shareholder approval, will be financed through four-for-five rights issue priced at S$0.24 a share. The mixed residential and commercial development is near the Thilawa deepsea port, and in an area where a special economic zone is widely expected to be built. The buy does not include two blocks of residential apartments comprising 300 units, most of which have already been sold. The remaining 30pc interest in the Star City project is held by First Myanmar Investment Co. Star City will comprise more than 9000 units of apartments and houses, shopping and commercial areas if it is fully developed. Mr Andrew Rickards, chief executive officer of Yoma Strategic, said: The acquisition of Star City represents a significant boost to our real estate business and should give us a strong pipeline for next six to eight years while we develop other businesses under the group in Myanmar. We are in a strong position to capitalise on the growth of Myanmar given our existing businesses there and our affiliation with the SPA Group. We believe that the timing of the proposed acquisition is also opportune, in view of the recent political, social and economic reforms in Myanmar. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, the board expects the real estate sector to continue to be buoyant. Yoma also reported it has returned to profitability with a net profit of S$1.4 million ($1.1 million) for the three months that ended December 31, 2011. This reversed a net loss of S$500,000 a year earlier due to the increased sales of housing and land development rights in Myanmar. It added that about 75pc of the companys net assets and 100pc of its revenue now come from Myanmar. Yoma is also upbeat about its future prospects and its executive chairman Mr Serge Pun said: We believe that with Myanmars reintegration with the global economy, we will stand to benefit not only from the sales of housing and LDRs, but also from the development of our other business areas.

Pork prices falling, says farming body

By Soe Sandar Oo PORK prices are falling as a result of increased palm oil imports this month, a spokesperson for the Pig Farmers and Processors Association said last week. U Hlaing Myint Oo, the associations chairman, wholesale pork prices decreased to about K1800 a viss (1.6 kilograms or 3.6 pounds) last week from K2200-K2300 in the second week of February. In mid-February last year the price was between K2500 and K2700, he said. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department said another factor pushing pork prices downward was the absence of any disease outbreaks. There have not been any outbreaks of porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome [PRRS] until now, he said. However, U Ohn, a pig farmer from Hmawbi in Yangon Region, told The Myanmar Times that he suspected some of his pigs had Pigs sit in cages at a farm outside Yangon. Pic: Myanmar Times Archive/Aye Zaw Myo died last week from PRRS. Last week one of my pigs was unwell and died yesterday, along with two of her piglets. I think it might have been PRRS and Ive heard that other pigs in my village have also died suddenly, he said. He added that villagers had immediately culled any sick looking pigs. However, the association spokesperson said: There are some kinds of disease that are very similar to PRRS and do kill the animals but are not PRRS. Several PRRS outbreaks last year, which started in February, killed at least 1300 pigs, he added. And even though wholesale prices are falling, retail pork prices remain the same about K6000-6500, the department spokesperson said. S ome retailers in Lanmadaw are even selling for pork for K7000-8000 a viss, U Hlaing Myint Oo said. But he warned that if wholesale prices continued to fall and feed prices increased, farmers might choose not to raise pigs, which could result in shortages.

Energy efficiency challenge opens

MYANMAR Engineering Society and Supreme Group of Companies are holding a competition to promote interest in energy efficiency, a spokesperson said recently. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Technology Competition has begun accepting applications and anybody is welcome to take part, the spokesperson said. U Thoung Win, chairman of the energy and renewable energy committee of the Myanmar Engineering Society, said the competition was aimed at supporting work to improve energy efficiency and conservation, as well as to boost public knowledge of work within that field. Anyone who is interested can compete just by drawing diagrams or making a model. If somebody wishes to submit something such as an electricity generator that burns rice husks, that's fine. If somebody is unable to bring their submission to Yangon we're willing to go and look at it, he said, adding that there are no age restrictions. However, he said all participants need to provide detailed sketches and drawings. Anyone interested in participating can pick up forms from MES headquarters in Hlaing township. Applications must be submitted by March 15. Juliet Shwe Gaung

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Job watch

Official moots two new international airports

By Juliet Shwe Gaung MYANMAR would welcome foreign investment in its plan to develop two new international airports, a government official said last week. U Win Swe Tun, deputy director general of the Department of Civil Aviation, under the Ministry of Transport, said last week that Myanmar was planning to build international airports at Hantharwaddy in Yangon Region and Dawei, Tanintharyi Region. Hantharwaddy is about 42 miles (67 kilometres) to Yangons north and would be built to handle the expected increase in international travellers landing in Yangon, while the Dawei airport will be developed to support the areas planned special economic zone. However, he could not say when work would begin. He added that the government welcomed foreign investment and cooperation in the projects, especially in providing technical knowledge. Companies here have little experience in construction work for aviation projects and we have only a small number of experts in the field, he said. So we need to cooperate with foreign companies and experts on this work. He said both projects were being planned to accommodate expected significant increases in visitors. We estimate that Yangon International Airports capacity will be overloaded within two years, he said, adding that Hantharwaddy would be closer to special economic zones that will be developed simultaneously.

POSITION VACANT Expatriate Office Manager Visa and Immigration Office, Australian Embassy Yangon The Visa and Immigration Office of the Australian Embassy Yangon has a vacancy for a part time expatriate Office Manager. The hours of work are 7 hours 30 minutes per day, three days per week. Salary offered is USD 14.86 per hour, Applicants must be citizens of either Australia, New Zealand, Britain, Canada or the United States and be entitled to work as a locally engaged staff member at a diplomatic mission in Myanmar. The Selection Criteria and Duty Statement may be found at the Australian Embassy website (www.burma.embassv.gov.au) under "About Us/ Job Vacancies". Applications close at COB on Friday 9 March 2012.

EU faces double-dip recession

By Roddy Thomson BRUSSELS The debt crisis will drag the eurozone into a long-feared double-dip recession this year, pulling down most neighbouring noneuro economies in its wake, the EU said on February 23. New data predicted a 0.3 percent contraction in GDP throughout 2012, compared with the previous estimate of 0.5pc growth, indicating that deep challenges remained for the single currency area only days after a decision to mount a new 237-billion-euro (US$310 billion) bailout of Greece. The unexpected stalling of the recovery in late 2011 is set to extend into the first two quarters of 2012, the European Commission said on February 23 although it stressed it saw a mild recession with signs of stabilisation. Three years after the collapse of US mortgage markets plunged the world into a brutal downturn, the Commission said negative loops between weak sovereign debtors, fragile financial markets and a slowing real economy do not yet appear to have been broken. Comments from close watchers of EU economic policy were swift and harsh. The banking system, at least in the euro area, remains on life support; the politics in the euro area remain as fraught as ever and the social fabric is being stretched to its limit, said Sony Kapoor of Brussels-based economic consultancy Re-Define. and now turns to legislation on the further austerity cuts and tough targets required to get the loans. On financial markets European stocks fell, with traders cautious about the prospects of Greece overcoming its debt problems on such weak growth. The euro firmed against the dollar and yen. Meanwhile, the EU Commission warned that Italy, which carries the eurozones biggest debt burden of about 1.3 trillion euros ($1.69 trillion), faces a recession that will cut its output by 1.3pc in 2012. The last official forecast in Rome was for a 0.4pc contraction, although the Bank of Italy last month tipped between 1.2pc and 1.5pc, while the International Monetary Fund predicted an even worse result, a 2.2pc drop. There will be a 1pc recession in Spain, according to the data, but Germanys economy would grow 0.6pc and that of France 0.4pc. Outside the eurozone, Poland maintains its position as a powerhouse economy, with 2.5pc growth now forecast lower compared to a stellar performance prior to the debt crisis, but still way out in front. One essential reason is Poland has been benefitting from the engine of the German economy, it has had a positive spillover, Rehn said, also crediting a large influx of EU funding for Warsaw. The economy in Britain, which has its own lopsided patterns, was meanwhile tipped to grow by 0.6pc. AFP

EMPLOYMENT
A Seoul/Korea based company is seeking a few capable candidates for English speaking local representative position in Myanmar. THE BASIC POSITION QUALIFICATION FOR THIS

- English proficiency for both verbal and writing - College/University Undergraduate or Graduate School Diploma - Job references at least for 5 years or over - Sufficient knowledge and use of Notebook PC - Qualified to travel abroad THE JOB DESCRIPTION OF MYANMAR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE POSITION - Asisting to establish a local liaison office In Myanmar - Conducting market feasibility study for export of Myanmar goods - Daily communication with overseas companies in Englsh would be a routine work If interested, please send resume along with salay requirement to following e-mail address. eva.kim@abcokorea.com

One of our client, a leading pharmaceutical equipment company in Thailand is looking for highly motivated, creative, energetic candidate for Myanmar representative office as per under requirements. Business Development Manager 1. Holder of Bachelor degree ( MBBS or others) 2. Gender: Male/Female 3. Job: Sales 4. Experience: Minimum 5 years and above Sales and Management in Pharmaceutical Filed 5. Age: 30 - 45 years 6. Language: English 7. Computer literate. Duties and responsibilities 1. Create New Business of Medical Disposable Product in Myanmar 2. Development and implement sales strategies and sales plan to achieve targeted goals. 3. Communicate with distributors 4. Managing and operating the office after setting up in Myanmar. No.851/853, 3rd Floor, Bogyke Aung San Road, Lanmadaw Township. Tel: 222963/ 229406/ 229437/ 09-730-94007 E-mail: esearch@yangon.net.mm

Announcing the numbers, European Union Economy Commissioner Olli Rehn put the figures into context by comparing the eurozone prospects to overall global growth which he expected to be 4.3pc this year. Although growth has stalled, we are seeing signs of stabilisation, he said. Economic sentiment is still at low levels, but stress in financial markets is easing. With decisive action, we can turn the corner, Rehn added. Unusually, the EU executive fed in data from all 27 EU states not just the seven biggest in a bid to make its forecasts more robust. The European Commission said modest growth is predicted

to return in the second half of the year, with inflation revised slightly upwards to 2.1pc across the 17-state euro currency area, mainly due to energy costs and increases in indirect taxes. The Commission said the Greek economy would shrink 4.4pc this year, much worse than its previous estimate of a 2.8pc recession. The Greek government is now rushing to nail down a 107-billion-euro ($139 billion) write-down of private debt and fresh loans of 130 billion euros ($169 billion) or more from international backers. The parliament in Athens approved on February 23 a law on the historic writedown,

Wind farm developer selects five test sites

By Juliet Shwe Gaung GUNKUL Engineering Public Company has selected five locations in Myanmars southeast where it intends to install testing equipment to see if the areas are viable for wind farming, a spokesperson said last week. U Tiha Thura Mon, director of Zeya and Associates, a business partner of Gunkul Engineering Public, said Gunkul signed an agreement with the Ministry of Electric Power No 2 to develop 1000 megawatts (MW) of wind power in November 2011. He said the company will install wind monitoring masts and perform ground surveys in the five locations by the end of March. The areas selected by the company include one location north of Kawthoung in Tanintharyi Region that covers 60 square miles; the second location is southeast of Dawei around Myintmoelatkat mountain and covers 170 square miles; the third site covers 60 square miles and is northeast of Dawei; the fourth site is near Kawkareik in Kayin State and also covers 60 square miles; and the fifth location is to the southeast of Hlaingbwe, Kayin State and covers 140 square miles. We will choose what we think are the best spots for the wind masts and then survey the surrounding area to make sure the ground is solid and if we can readily access the area, he said. He said the company would begin with the Dawei site because it was easiest to access. He added that it would take six months after the wind masts were installed for the company to determine whether the sites were commercially viable. After six-month feasibility studies are done we will probably install a 10MW plant to generate power while we do other extension work, U Tiha Thura Mon said.

New onshore block tender coming: sources

KUALA LUMPUR Myanmar will launch a second global tender for six onshore oil and gas blocks as the reforming Southeast Asian country seeks to tap more foreign investment, two sources with direct knowledge of the deals told Reuters. The latest tender will be issued in late February or early March, according to the Myanmar-based sources. It comes hot on the heels of Myanmars largest oil and gas offering in August 2011 that saw 10 out of 18 onshore blocks snapped up, mostly by Asian firms. Myanmar has been speeding up democratic reforms ahead of April 1 by-elections that are seen as key to the European Union and other Western nations unwinding more sanctions against the nation. Under the new tender, Myanmar will offer two fields under productionsharing contracts while the rest will be awarded under marginal field development and improved petroleum recovery contracts, one of the sources said. The new tender will come soon after the winners of the earlier tender sign their deals in February, said the second source, who declined to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue. Myanmar is expecting interest from Asian countries. And there may be more interest from Western countries this time, the source added. An Energy Ministry spokesman confirmed the country would be issuing an international tender for the onshore blocks very soon but declined to give further details. Reuters

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delivery trucks carrying gas on a busy highway and distributed the cylinders among themselves. The deprivations and sacrifices of the fuel crisis can be seen in every corner of Kathmandu. Students have raided gas depots, queues of cars and motorcycles snake back hundreds of metres from petrol stations, fuel trucks require police escorts and restaurants have reduced menus in an effort to save on gas. Taxi driver Jagaran Tamang, 22, says he is forced to spend half his day queuing for fuel and might even move to South Korea for temporary work. These days, I drive to a petrol station and wait in queue for more than five hours. During that time, I could have ferried half a dozen passengers, he told AFP. It has become hard to survive. The reasons for the crisis are complex but years of political paralysis following the 1996-2006 Maoist insurgency have not helped. Experts say Nepals huge mountain river system could be generating up to 83,000 megawatts (MW) of power, allowing it to sell surplus electricity to other countries. But development of infrastructure ground to a halt during the civil war and the nation produces a paltry 688MW a year. As a result it has to import petroleum products worth 80 billion rupees (US$1 billion) a year. The government-run Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC), which provides subsidised fuel to consumers, has fallen behind on its payments to India and in January the NOC increased petrol, diesel and gas prices, leading to angry protests. The demonstrators blocked traffic and shut shops across the country, withdrawing only after Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai pledged to address their demands. The government has since given the NOC two billion rupees to pay the Indian Oil Corporation, but the crisis continues unabated. Energy analyst Amrit Nakarmi described the fuel shortages as an artificially created crisis caused by the governments failure to institute a pricing structure based on demand and world prices. The government has arbitrarily increased the price of petroleum products. It doesnt want to manage the [fuel supply] properly but neither does it want to privatise, which has exacerbated the problem, he said.

MyanMar tiMes

Nepal running on empty in energy crisis

By Deepak Adhikari KATHMANDU Deepesh Aryal and two of his restaurant staff set out in the dead of night and brave Kathmandus biting wintry chill to meet a carefullycultivated contact. As they count their cash, they could be planning a drug deal or a cloak-anddagger meeting of spies but the truth is rather more prosaic: they are joining a 10-hour queue for cooking gas. Like thousands of traders in Kathmandu, 28-year-old Aryal will go to extraordinary lengths to secure the fuel he needs to run his business amid an energy crisis which is crippling life in the impoverished nation. He is forced to queue for the best part of a day and, after his 4am start, he finally has three full cylinders of cooking gas. But they will run out and soon he will have to repeat the arduous trip. I had to wait until 2pm to get the cylinders filled, he told AFP. I was lucky because I knew the gas dealer. Imagine how hard it is for people without connections. A severe shortage of gas cylinders, essential for heating and cooking in a country with no mains supply, has increased the hardship for Nepalis already enduring seasonal daily power cuts of up to 14 hours. Exacerbating the problem, a shortage of petrol and diesel means people have to queue for many hours or turn to the black market to run cars and the generators which light their shops when the electricity goes out. The crisis has led to angry criticism of the government and even civil unrest, with protests stopping traffic and citizens resorting to crime to get fuel. Earlier this month a group of Nepalis stopped

People unload cylinders of cooking gas to a waiting crowd, after stopping a truck on a highway outside Kathmandu on February 1. Pic: AFP Our dependence on fossil fuel is increasing each passing day with the increase in population and the development of small urban areas where consumers prefer cooking gas. The crisis will be more frequent in coming years. AFP

Free trade deal to draw China, Japan investment, says Lee

SEOUL South Korean President Lee MyungBak said last week that a sweeping free trade pact with the United States would help draw Chinese and Japanese investment to his country and create more jobs. Under the pact, you will see investments in South Korea from China and Japan ... it will create jobs, Lee told a press conference marking the fourth anniversary last week of his inauguration. Neither of the Asian giants have free trade agreements of their own with the worlds biggest economy, but by establishing a presence in South Korea their firms exports will be able to benefit from the deal. The agreement was signed in July 2007 but approved by the US Congress only last October after a partial renegotiation dealing mainly with the auto industry. South Koreas parliament in turn approved the pact in November despite vehement protests from opposition lawmakers who have urged President Barack Obama to renegotiate the deal. Seoul and Washington have agreed the pact will take effect on March 15. But the main centreleft opposition Democratic United Party says that without a renegotiation it will withdraw from the agreement if it takes power following a parliamentary and presidential election this year. Lee said the politicians who now oppose the trade pact supported it when they were in power in 2007. AFP

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Parking directive could change city: industry

In an effort to tackle rising congestion, YCDC issues order requiring in-house parking for new buildings
YCDC to reconsider the directive. I will have to reconsider whether I want to submit proposals for new projects that I intend to build in Lanmadaw and Tarmwe townships. But I can see that the parking problem is getting worse day-by-day and the authorities should seek a way to solve the problem, he said. U Lazarus said the issue of limited parking spaces was not limited to downtown, with townships such as Kyeemyindaing and Tarmwe also affected. U Ko Ko Lay, a director of Three Friends Construction in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township, said the YCDC directive was bound to create difficulties for developers in the future. YCDC wants to solve the citys parking problem but this directive doesnt Traffic blocks a major road in the downtown area last week. Pic: Boothee make sense on the ground, he said. We have no choice to easing the congestion Power Construction, said did not want the company on the matter but I cant downtown would be to his firm would also suffer as named, welcomed YCDCs help but think that it will establish large car parks a result of the new directive. directive but said it was Were reconsidering flawed. push up prices of existing in surrounding townships, It is fair to say that there w h i l e s i m u l t a n e o u s l y our proposals for sites in apartments. Selling the ground floor increasing parking fees Kamaryut, Mingalar Taung needs to be adequate parking Nyunt and Insein townships for cars but so many of the apartments often recover downtown substantially. There is land available because I think this will cut plots in Yangon are not up to 30 percent of the construction costs for the for public car parking in our profit margins by 25pc, suitable because they are too narrow, developer, he said. he added. U Ko Ko YCDC wants to solve the citys parking problem but this a tWe eneed l ast Lay urged 2500 square YCDC to directive doesnt make sense on the ground. feet to build consider the a proper positives parking facility, otherwise it and negatives that might Kyeemyindaing, Ahlone, U Aung Htun said. We are okay because we just doesnt work properly, e v e n t u a t e f r o m t h e Mingalar Taung Nyunt and Tarmwe townships which do a range of developments he said. directive. He said developers had no In my opinion this will only could be made available at but I dont dare to think how solve the problem in the short a low rate. At the same time, the developers that specialise choice but to sit back and term, he said, adding a long parking charges in heavily in six-storey buildings will wait to see if the directive would be enforced. term solution might be found congested areas could be fare, he said. He added that the A spokesperson for one of if an urban development plan increased to as much as the citys biggest developers, authorities should use the was drafted via a national K5000 an hour, he said. U Aung Htun, the managing which is located in Mingalar directive on a case-by-case level workshop. He said one solution director of Myanmar Top Taung Nyunt township but basis.

DEVELOPERS say a verbal directive from Yangon City Development Committee to provide in-house parking on new developments of four or more storeys is costly and unfeasible. However, with car ownership seemingly on the rise, as well as the size of the cars themselves, residents face a daily struggle to find parking and safely negotiate the increasingly jammed streets. Developers last week said they were verbally informed by YCDC in late January that new developments that do not have adequate parking will have to convert the ground floor, usually the most costly apartments, to parking. U Lazarus, the managing director of Yadanar Shwe Htun Construction in Botahtaung township, said the YCDCs directive would mostly hurt small- and medium-sized developers. We were warned that new construction permits would only be issued if the developer could provide [enough] parking spaces, he said. Its really a headache for developers because most of the time we develop narrow blocks, where there is no space for proper parking. Its not necessarily important for the big construction firms because they handle larger plots. He said that if developers were forced to use the ground floor for parking it would make many projects unprofitable and he urged

Real estate agent and Thingangyun township resident U Sai Khung Noung, 45, said the congestion in some parts of the city gave him a fever. The parking and congestion problem in some areas, particularly in Kyauktada and Pabedan townships, gives me a daily fever, he said. I think making new developments have adequate internal parking will be better for everybody, particularly people who have just purchased a newer vehicle. And its an important measure because there will only be more cars in the future, he said. YCDC did not respond to The Myanmar Times request for an interview on the matter.

China home prices fall in January

BEIJING Home prices in more than two thirds of Chinas major cities continued their slump in January from a month before, the government announced on February 18, as moves to cool the market continued to bite. Of 70 cities tracked by the government, 48 saw prices fall month-on-month, slightly fewer than the 52 cities that recorded negative house price growth in December, the National Bureau of Statistics said, while 22 were seen as stable. Beijing has introduced a range of measures aimed at curbing the real estate market over the last year, such as bans on buying second homes, upping minimum downpayments and introducing property taxes in select cities. But analysts worry the correction could have broader implications for the worlds secondlargest economy, which is already widely forecast to slow this year from 9.2 percent growth in 2011. Premier Wen Jiabao reiterated this week that the government had no plans to relax policy restrictions aimed at cooling the market. Property analysts EC Harris said in a research note that the slowdown was likely to continue, while warning of the risks for the wider economy. Property prices in the mid- to long-term will likely continue to decrease as long as the governments current policies remain in place, the firm said. AFP

Icy new attraction opens in Yangon

By Noe Noe Aung YANGONs Kandawgyi Park now has a new attraction the Ice Wonder Land the company that built the facility said at a press conference on February 22. The building, which is at the entrance to Western Park Hotel, was opened on February 25 and features ice statues of world famous buildings, personalities and a small playground. It was built by Asia Myanmar Consortium Development company and Chinas Jian Xi Long Dai Culture Ltd over nearly four months. I aim to make this facility attractive to both the public and tourists, said U Kyaw Khaing, managing director of Asia Myanmar Consortium Development. Because Kandawgyi Park is close to Shwedagon Pagoda we anticipate that many tourists will come and have a look at this project, which is the first of its kind in Myanmar, he added. Jian Xi Long Dai Culture

A visitor slides down the slippery dip inside the newly opened Ice Wonder Land at Kandawgyi Park. Pic: Ko Taik Ltd has built similar sites in Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia. The building covers nearly 27,000 square feet and the average temperate is below freezing. The temperature is from -5 Celsius to -10C, U Nyein Aung, an Asia Myanmar Consortium Development executive. Light thermal coats will be loaned to visitors to counter the cold, he said. We have also set up a small emergency clinic with a doctor and nurses on standby, he said, adding that the company had also arranged life insurance for visitors through Myanmar Insurance. It will be more enjoyable for visitors if the bring their own gloves and wear shoes, even though we will provide coats for everybody, U Nyein Aung said. Entrance fees are K5000 for adults and K3000 for children on weekends and other gazetted holidays, and K4000 for adults and K3000 for children on weekdays. The site will be open from 9am to 9pm.

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An iconic London building faces uncertain future

LONDON With its four white chimneys and solid brick base, Battersea Power Station is Londons most iconic industrial building. But 30 years after closing down, it still eludes efforts to give it a future. There has been no shortage of ideas or candidates to renovate the building, which was built in 1933 on the south bank of the River Thames and immortalised on the cover of Pink Floyds 1977 album Animals. But whether the aim was to create a commercial centre or a leisure park, every grand plan has collapsed, usually in a sea of debt. Irish developers REO were the latest to try their luck with a 5.5-billion (US$8.7 billion) project to turn the former coal-fired power station into shops, office space and leisure facilities. It went into administration in December, owing debts of 324 million ($512 million), leaving Battersea standing once again as a symbol of Londons industrial past and a rare bulwark against the relentless development of the British capital. Some Londoners think the buildings time has come. Knock it down, said Stephen Bayley, one of the founders of the Design Museum, which once considered moving into the decommissioned power station. I live close by and, of course, I enjoy Battersea Power Stations strange, melancholy presence. But cities have to evolve and change, otherwise they are dead. He condemned the misguided and misdirected nostalgia of those who wanted to keep it standing for historys sake, telling AFP: The brutal fact is no-one can afford to restore Battersea Power Station. It is one of the biggest brick structures in the world and is in terrible condition: every joint needs to be re-pointed. The land around Europes largest brick building is also polluted and would require expensive decontamination work to make it habitable. Battersea was built by the architect Giles Gilbert Scott, the man behind Britains famous red telephone boxes and Bankside, another London power station which was reincarnated as the hugely popular Tate Modern gallery. Batterseas chimneys resemble antique columns, while inside are fine examples of art deco design, including a hall with walls of Italian marble. Paddy Pugh, a planning director at conservation body English Heritage, is horrified at suggestions that it should be destroyed. Battersea Power Station is such a powerful architectural symbol in London that its almost inconceivable that it would be demolished, he said. Despite the work required, Pugh argues it is a strong, robust building and can be brought back into use, whether as a commercial centre, flats or a leisure park. Even top English Premier League football club Chelsea has expressed an interest in acquiring the site. Pugh notes that Battersea, the area around the power station, is also becoming more attractive. Sitting across the river from the wealthy Chelsea district, it will soon be home to the new US embassy and there are plans to extend the Underground train network. Several new developments of riverside flats have sprung up along the south bank of the Thames in recent years, but the site around Battersea Power Station remains an unattractive industrial zone. For us, the most important thing is that the power station should be repaired and brought back into some sort of use. Now what that use is, we are very open to suggestions, Pugh said. The football stadium idea does not go down well with a community group set up when the power station closed in 1983. Battersea Power Station should be mostly about work and about culture, said architect Keith Garner, a member of the group. It is world-famous, and for companies, particularly in the creative or media sector, it is a very good address to have. He cited other renovations, including Fiats Lingotto factory in Turin and the Dean Clough factory buildings in Halifax, northern England, as examples of what can be achieved. In a rich city like London there is no excuse for the fact that in nearly 30 years nothing has been achieved, he said. AFP

In Haiti, no home but a tent

By William Booth PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti International aid worker Emmett Fitzgerald has to get 20,000 very poor people squatting in front of the National Palace to pack up their tarps and tin, their plastic buckets and soiled mats to empty the most notorious camp in Haiti and go home. The hard part: What home? There is not enough money, there is not enough time to build the cities of tomorrow in Haiti today. So the 4641 families that have been living for the past two years in the Champ de Mars park in downtown Port-auPrince will be given US$500 to return to the kind of desperate housing they lived in before the earthquake. In Haiti, that is considered good news. Were not talking about a house. Were talking about renting a room, space on the floor, with a roof, access to water, a communal kitchen, maybe a toilet, Fitzgerald said. As program coordinator for the International Organisation for Migration, he is working with the Haitian government to clear the Champ de Mars camp, with a $20 million grant from the Canadian government. If that sounds grim, the residents of Champ de Mars are the lucky ones. Given the magnitude of the housing crisis, combined with donor fatigue and lack of investment, the promise of building new public housing to absorb the homeless in Haiti has collided with reality. Most of the approximately 135,000 families still in camps will not be offered a shelter arrangement. Some camps will become formalised as permanent slums. The displaced will mostly have to fend for themselves. Why not allow the residents to remain in Champ de Mars? Because the tarp shanties are overcrowded fire hazards that will blow down in the first hurricane, the Haitian government says. There is no running water or electricity. There is another reason, too: The Champ de Mars camp is

About 135,000 families still live in housing camps in Haitis major cities more than two years after a devastating earthquake shook the country. Pic: Washington Post an embarrassment. Two years after the worlds worst urban disaster in a generation, about 515,000 Haitians linger in 707 camps scattered across the capital. Although it is not unusual for refugees fleeing conflict to be stuck in camps for years, as Somali refugees in Kenya or Palestinians in Lebanon have been, rarely are people displaced by natural disasters for so long, and almost never in a camp in the central plaza of a capital city. Since the population in the earthquake camps in Haiti peaked at 1.5 million in July 2010, more than a million displaced persons have abandoned the tent cities. The vast majority left on their own, with little or no help. Some were shoved. A report by Nicole Phillips of the University of San Francisco School of Law found it likely that many of the displaced persons who had left tent cities are living in conditions worse than those found in the camps. The International Organisation for Migration counts 63,109 individuals forcibly evicted from 134 camps in the past two years and says 100,000 others are vulnerable to the same fate. But where to go? In Port-au-Prince, 84,866 buildings have been marked with red paint, indicating they should be demolished. Nonetheless, more than half of the red-marked houses are inhabited, with little or no repair, as people desperate for shelter live in the ruins. Inspectors with the Ministry of Public Works have also tagged 120,000 homes with yellow paint, meaning the structures are damaged but repairable. International donors, including the US government, have helped renovate just 6000 homes in two years. At the current pace, it will take another decade to bring the yellow houses up to minimal safety codes. I cannot believe that we have lived here on the ground for two years, said Williamson Aristide, who once worked at the airport handling cargo freight but has not had a real job since the earthquake on January 12, 2010. Asked about the prospects of finding a place to live, Aristide said: There is not a word for it. It is very, very, very hard. There is nothing to rent. The ambitious plans of last year with seaside promenades built of earthquake rubble and boulevards lined with threestory mixed-use commercial and residential developments gather dust on government shelves, relics of a more naive era. The exemplar communities of foam homes, geodesic domes and innovative Caribbean-style cabanas designed by world-class architects, promoted by the Build Back Better mantra of former president Bill Clinton and his Interim Haiti Recovery Commission, are on hold. All the while, the camps are quickly deteriorating. As of last month, there was no committed funding for emptying camp latrines, a risky gambit in a country facing a cholera epidemic. Almost all health services have been removed. UN peacekeepers are pulling back. The plastic tarps given to residents two years ago have a recommended life span of six months, and the temporary cities are in tatters. This is a dangerous place for a woman, said Jasmine Charles, with a toddler on her hip. A man standing nearby said that the perimeter of the camp was relatively safe. But go in deep? They will cut you and rob you, brother. Washington Post

Hong Kongs last Cantonese opera house saved

By Beh Lih Yi HONG KONG Hong Kongs last dedicated Cantonese opera theatre won a new lease of life on February 18 after it was saved from closure by a feng shui master who struck a deal with the property owner. The 1000-seat Sunbeam Theatre has been synonymous with the operatic heritage of Chinas southern Cantonesespeaking minority for 40 years since it opened in 1972, and has earned landmark status on Hong Kongs art scene. The opera house had been due to close following its final show on February 19 after the theatre operator decided to discontinue the lease, a move seen by fans as another nail in the coffin for the 300year-old Chinese art. But in a dramatic turn of events, feng shui master Li Kui-ming, who also runs the Prime Splendor Theatrical Troupe, said he had signed a four-year lease with owner Francis Law at a rent of HK$1 million (US$129,000) a month to keep the Sunbeam open. This is a breakthrough in the negotiation. We really want to keep this 40-year-old landmark theatre, the troupes director Yuen Hoi told AFP. We will carry out some renovation works at the theatre and were aiming to re-open Sunbeam in late April, Yuen said, adding that Li and Law met several times before signing the lease. The owner is a Cantonese opera fan. He has commercial considerations but he is hoping to keep the theatre too and therefore he wants to pick a tenant who is really serious about preserving and promoting Cantonese opera, said Yuen. Businessman Law bought the 80,000square-foot (7400-square-metre) theatre in 2003, reportedly with plans to replace it with a shopping mall. The Sunbeam escaped the bulldozers initially, but has been fighting soaring rents ever since and was nearly shut down twice. The theatre operator had been paying almost HK$700,000 ($90,300) a month since 2009, when the lease was renewed but the rent more than doubled. There are other all-purpose venues around Hong Kong for opera performances, but none has dedicated itself exclusively to Cantonese opera like the Sunbeam. The news was lauded by Cantonese opera fans. We are so glad. We were planning a farewell ceremony at Sunbeam tomorrow but now we are going to turn it into a celebration party instead, lawmaker Jennifer Chow, herself an amateur Cantonese opera performer, said on February 18. Chow, a district councillor who launched a signature campaign to save the theatre, said the government should step up efforts to find a long-term solution in view of the Sunbeams plight. The government needs to do something, it needs to build a dedicated theatre for Cantonese opera in order for us to preserve the art, she added. Cantonese opera where actors wear elaborate costumes and make-up, and must be adept at elaborately choreographed martial arts as well as singing was recognised as intangible cultural heritage by UN cultural agency UNESCO in 2009. Other than its southern dialect, Cantonese opera differs from mainland operatic traditions in its use of percussion instruments such as gongs and cymbals. AFP

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Single-atom transistor busts the records

PARIS Researchers in Australia said on February 19 they had made with pinpoint accuracy a working transistor consisting of a single atom, marking a major stride towards nextgeneration computing. The device comprises a single phosphorus atom, etched into a silicon bed, with gates to control electrical flow and metallic contacts that are also on the atomic scale. Our group has proved that it is really possible to position one phosphorus atom in a silicon environment, exactly as we need it, with nearatomic precision, and at the same time [incorporate] gates, said lead scientist Martin Fuechsle. Transistors, which switch or amplify electrical flow, are the building blocks of computer chips. For more than 50 years, the semi-conductor industry has been upholding Moores Law, the celebrated prediction by Intel Corp pioneer Gordon Moore that the number of transistors on a chip would double every 18 months or so. But the astonishing run of success could hit a wall by the end of this decade without a breakthrough in miniaturising transistors. The team made the transistor from a silicon crystal that was placed in a vacuum. To etch it, they used a device called a scanning tunnelling microscope, which is able to see atoms and manipulate them using a super-fine metal tip. Phosphorus atoms were deposited in a nano-scale trench, covered with an inert layer of hydrogen, and the unwanted ones were then weeded out. A chemical reaction welded the transistor atom to the silicon surface. The minute device operates in ultra-cold temperatures provided by liquid helium. It is not a finished product but proof-of-principle, designed to show that singleatom devices can be built and controlled. Scientist have made atomic-scale transistors in the past, but through a chance find rather than by design, said Michelle Simmons, director of the Centre for Quantum Computation and Communication at the University of New South Wales, where the work was carried out. But this device is perfect, she said. This is the first time anyone has shown control of a single atom in a substrate [chip base] with this level of precise accuracy. The research is reported in the specialist journal Nature Nanotechnology. AFP

Google in privacy crosshairs

By Glenn Chapman SAN FRANCISCO Privacy advocates, lawyers and powerful rival Microsoft were piling on Google on February 21 for sidestepping web browsing software to tailor ads for people signed into its online services. The California-based internet firm continued to staunchly defend itself meanwhile against accusations that it had put profit ahead of privacy. Controversy ignited last week after it was revealed that Google ad-targeting cookies bypassed trackblocking software on Apples web browser for iPhones and computers. Microsoft said Internet Explorer was likewise duped. By February 21 a suit was filed in US federal court demanding Google pay unspecified damages for violating the privacy of millions of people, and potentially national antiwiretapping law. Some researchers, however, said lashing out at Google did little to resolve a contradiction underpinning the complex situation people want free online services that know them but web surfing that remains anonymous. Snippets of code called cookies from Google and three online ad specialty firms slipped past tracker-blocking safeguards on Apples Safari browser, Stanford University features on browsers raised alarms with consumer rights groups and has already prompted a call for an investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission. Google discontinued use of the offending cookies in Safari browsers after Mayers findings went public, and characterised the situation as an unintended side-effect of an effort to safeguard online privacy. Google last year began using cookies in Safari browsers to let people signed into Google accounts get personalised services, such as being able to +1 ads or other online content as likeable for friends at its online social network. The plan was purportedly to provide users personalisation requested while disclosing no information about them to Google-owned ad specialty firm DoubleClick. Google reportedly did not realise that the presence of the cookies opened Safari browser doors to a slew of DoubleClick ad-tracking cookies, which would otherwise have been rejected. The Safari browser contained functionality that then enabled other Google advertising cookies to be set on the browser, the California company said in a statement. We didnt anticipate that this would happen, and we have now started removing these advertising cookies from Safari browsers, it continued. AFP

Google faced pressure from rival web companies last week for evading web browsing software to tailor ads for people signed into its online services. Pic: AFP graduate student Jonathan Mayer said in a blog post on February 17. Microsoft on February 20 said that a check showed that Google was bypassing anti-tracking mechanisms built into the Redmond, Washingtonbased technology companys Internet Explorer (IE) web browsing software. Google is employing similar methods to get around the default privacy protections in IE and track IE users with cookies, IE corporate vice president Dean Hachamovitch said in a blog post. Given this realworld behaviour, we are investigating what additional changes to make to our products, he said. Google fired back at Microsoft, saying that the company has known for years that the IE cookie blocking technique thwarted the functionality of modern websites such as Facebook and Amazon and that bypassing it was common practice. Instead of fixing [a] P3P loophole in IE that Facebook and Amazon exploited ... Microsoft did nothing, privacy researcher Christopher Soghoian said in a Twitter post, referring to IEs way of having cookies identify themselves. Now they complain after Google uses it. Researcher Lauren Weinstein in a post at social network Google+ referred to Microsofts complaint as seeming disingenuous at best, and certainly is not helping to move the ball usefully forward regarding these complex issues. Whether calculated or innocent, Googles sidestepping of privacy

Trade Mark CauTionarY noTiCe

Notice is hereby given that our client, Inter-Continental Hotels Corporation, having its principal office at Three Ravinia Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30346-2149 U.S.A., is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark:

Some GSMs, landlines move to prepaid system

MYANMAR Posts and Telecommunications last week announced that postpaid GSM mobiles and landline telephones would switch to a prepaid system from March 1. From March 1 postpaid users with numbers starting 0920-4 and 0955 and landlines beginning with (01) 230 will move to a prepaid system using top-up cards, an MPT official said. The changeover will be rolled out to all GSM numbers and landlines from May 1, he added. He said landline phone users with the numbers in the first changeover batch should contact MPTs Accounts Department office at the corner of Mahabandoola and 40th street in Pabedan township. He added that GSM users had received three text messages from MPT asking if the wanted to change to the prepaid system, those who failed to respond will automatically be moved on the new payment scheme. Users must prepay at least K1000, he said, adding that numbers will not change. He added that users must also settle their final postpaid bill before changing to the prepaid system but those with credit remaining will have it automatically transferred. Prepaid top-up cards are already available on the market for K10,000, K30,000 and K50,000 for GSM phones and we will soon begin selling K5000 and K10,000 top-up cards for landlines. Htoo Aung

inTerConTinenTaL
(reg. no. 4/878/2012) To be used in connection with hotels and restaurant and catering services; providing business facilities and equipment for hotel guests; cocktail lounge and nightclub services; arranging travel and tour packages, including, hotel, airfare, car rental and sightseeing options; hotel reservation services; health and fitness club services; and all other services customary to the hotel trade. Our abovementioned client has instructed us and wishes us to bring to the notice of the trade and public that they attach singular importance to their abovementioned Trade Mark and that legal action will be taken against any person or persons who act in infringement of the rights of our client. Any inquiry relative thereto may be referred to ourselves being their agent. Soe Win Advocate #0502/5 Sakura Tower Ph: 255055/255407 For Hilborne, Hawkin & Co. 2875 Michelle Drive, Suite 170 Irvine, California 92606 United States of America Telephone: (714) 283-1155 Facsimile: (714) 283-1555 Email: info(g),hilbornehawkin.com Dated: 27th February, 2012

Digital tech saving old languages

VANCOUVER Digital technologies are the new life-savers for languages on the verge of extinction, linguists said on February 17 as they announced eight new dictionaries at a major science conference in Vancouver. Were turning the digital divide into an opportunity, said David Harrison, a National Geographic Fellow at Swarthmore College in Philadelphia. More than half of some 7000 languages alive today were considered on the verge of extinction within a century, threatened by cultural changes, ethnic shame, government repression and other factors, the scientists said. But the use of technologies, even by peoples without written languages, is a heartening trend, said Harrison. Language extinction is not an inevitability. Using social media, Youtube, text messaging, to expand their voice, expand their presence [is] the flip side of globalisation, said Harrison. You can have a language spoken by only 50 or 500 people, only in one location, and now through digital technology that language can achieve a global voice. Languages matter, said Harrison, because linguists and other researchers gain immense insight into human cognition, botany, pharmacology. All disciplines of scientific inquiry are immeasurably enhanced. Linguist Margaret Noori said languages are a gateway to so-called traditional knowledge. For example, an Ojibwe term for wetlands, translated as 'where the land bleeds, shows a different way of understanding the science of a place, she told reporters. Noori said that in North Americas Great Lakes region, apps for iPhones, a Facebook page, online lessons and a web site with dictionaries and songs are keeping alive the aboriginal Anishinaabemowin language. Noori said new estimates show just 5000 people in North America speak Anishinaabemowin, once the mother tongue of 200 aboriginal nations, known as tribes or bands. Before laws changed in the US and Canada, the language was almost eradicated by official government policies, including placing aboriginal children in church or state-run residential schools. Noori, a professor at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, whose activist aboriginal parents raised her to speak her ancestral language, said the written goal of residential schools was to kill the Indian to save the man. She recalled being a child watching police raids of traditional drum circles and religious celebrations during Americas turbulent civil rights movements of the 1960s and 1970s, when police cracked down on the political American Indian movement. Now schools and area universities are using digital technology to promote Anishinaabemowin, with a website, http://www.umich.edu/~ojibwe/ that includes traditional poems put to music, the informal anthem of the American Indian movement, and a translation into the language of a candy ad shown during the US Superbowl football game and translated lyrics by pop stars. Harrison released eight new talking dictionaries of languages at the American Association for the Advancement of Science meeting in Vancouver. AFP

TiMESWORLD
Confident Obama tips another five years
WASHINGTON US President Barack Obama made no bones about his chances of re-election in an interview with Americas largest Hispanic radio service last week, saying: Ive got another five years coming up. Quizzed by Univisions Eddie Piolin Sotelo about his failure to enact comprehensive immigration reform, Obama replied: Well, first of all, Piolin, my presidency is not over. Ive got another five years coming up. Were going to get this done, he continued, according to a transcript of the interview, conducted on February 21 and broadcast on Univision Radio the next day. The remarks, coming as Republican hopefuls become increasingly drawn into a long and bitter nomination battle, and as the US economy shows signs of sputtering back into life, marked a big turnaround from October when Obama said he would absolutely be the underdog in the November 2012 election. Obamas approval rating hit the crucial 50 percent level in two recent opinion polls. Among his possible Republican challengers in November, Romney and former senator Rick Santorum come closest to beating him in the latest polls, but still trail the president by an average six to seven percentage points. AFP

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WikiLeaks suspect declines to enter plea

FORT MEADE, Maryland WikiLeaks suspect Bradley Manning declined to enter a plea at his arraignment on February 23 on charges of turning over a massive cache of classified US documents to the secretspilling site. Manning, 24, a US Army private, is charged with 22 counts in connection with one of the biggest intelligence breaches in US history. The most serious charge aiding the enemy could send him to prison for life. Manning deferred entering a plea, which he is not required to do until the start of the court-martial. During the hearing, the judge asked lawyers for the prosecution and the defence when they wanted the trial to begin. Army prosecutors opted for an August 3 start date but Mannings civilian lawyer, David Coombs, asked for the court-martial to begin in June. As of today, Bradley Manning has been in confinement for 635 days, Coombs said. Manning is accused of passing hundreds of thousands of military field reports from Iraq and Afghanistan and US diplomatic cables to WikiLeaks between November 2009 and May 2010, when he served as an intelligence analyst in Iraq. The US government slammed the disclosure of the documents by WikiLeaks, saying it threatened national security and the lives of foreigners working with the military and US embassies. WikiLeaks supporters view the site as a whistleblower that exposed US wrongdoing and see Manning as a political prisoner. AFP

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin addresses 100,000 supporters at a Moscow stadium on February 23 ahead of elections on March 4 in which he will be seeking his third term as president. Pic: AFP Related report, P. 24.

Annan to lead Syria peace bid

DAMASCUS The UN named its former leader Kofi Annan as special envoy for Syria on the eve of an international conference on February 24 aimed at pressuring the Assad regime to halt the rising spiral of violence. Amid international outrage over the deaths of two Western journalists and reports of intensified shelling of civilians, Annan was called on to represent both the UN and the Arab League in ending violence and human rights violations, and promoting a peaceful solution to the Syrian crisis, the two bodies said in a statement on February 23. The appointment came on the day international investigators submitted a list of Syrian military and political officials suspected of possible crimes against humanity to the UN and as the death toll continued to mount inside the country. More than 7500 people have been killed in 11 months of protests against President Bashar al-Assad and there is growing international pressure for an initiative seeking to end the murderous government crackdown. Western and Arab powers were to push Syria to allow in desperately needed humanitarian aid at an international conference in Tunis on February 24. More than 60 nations were gathering for the crucial Friends of Syria conference, which will also seek to further isolate Assads regime and support the countrys opposition. But the Arab League-organised conference of Arab and Western officials, including US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, will be marked by a Russian boycott and the absence of China. Both countries have frustrated efforts to rein in Assads regime, explosions while his forces pounded the city for a 20th straight day. The White House slammed the attacks as heinous and unforgivable, as monitors said 86 people were killed throughout Syria on February 23, 61 of them civilians. Thats why were working with a broad array of international partners to isolate and pressure Assad, to bring around a peaceful transition in that country, a transition that is inevitable and already under way, President Barack Obamas spokesman Jay Carney said. determination to eliminate all opposition in the city. In Geneva, international investigators said they had submitted a list of Syrian military and political officials suspected of possible crimes against humanity to UN human rights chief Navi Pillay. The UN-commissioned panel said it documented a widespread and systematic pattern of gross violations by Syrian forces, in conditions of impunity, since March 2011 when the popular uprising against Assads regime broke out. It said Syrias government had manifestly failed to protect its people, but also said it had found instances of gross abuses committed by rebel fighters, many of them army defectors. Abdullah said there was evidence regime forces deliberately targeted the makeshift media centre where Colvin and Ochlik were killed and two others wounded. The Syrian government made no denial its forces had fired the lethal rounds. We reject statements holding Syria responsible for the deaths of journalists who sneaked into its territory at their own risk, said the foreign ministry. AFP Related report, P. 21.

We hear terrifying explosions.

including by vetoing UN Security Council resolutions. An early draft of the meetings declaration being circulated by opposition sources on February 23 said it could call for the Syrian government to implement an immediate ceasefire and to allow free and unimpeded access by the UN... and humanitarian agencies. As President Assads regime brushed off outrage over the deaths of two Western journalists in Homs, activists spoke of terrifying The latest bombardment of Homs Syrias third-largest city centred on Baba Amr neighbourhood, where US reporter Marie Colvin and French photojournalist Remi Ochlik were killed on February 22. Activist Hadi Abdullah told AFP from inside the city: We hear terrifying explosions. He said the world outcry over the deaths of the journalists and 24 Syrian civilians in Homs on February 22 appeared only to have strengthened the regimes

Conference pledges to boost aid for Somalia

LONDON International powers pledged on February 23 to boost aid for Somalia to tackle Islamist militancy, piracy and political instability, warning that failure to help now could hurt the rest of the world. At a London conference attended by US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, UN chief Ban Ki-moon and more than 50 other top figures, they issued a communique vowing action against anyone obstructing the peace process. British Prime Minister David Cameron said that after two decades of bloodshed there were signs of "fragile progress" in Somalia. Supporting these efforts is not just right for the people of Somalia, it is right for the whole world. The conference statement also backed the UN Security Councils decision on February 22 to boost the AU force in the country to 17,000. Somalia has had no central government since 1991 and in recent years the Shebab rebels and other groups have taken an increasing hold on large parts of the country, while pirates have caused chaos in the Indian Ocean. But the situation has stabilised in recent months, with the AU force helping Somali troops push the Shebab out of the capital, Mogadishu. AFP

Trade Mark CauTion

WWrd iPCo LLC, of 2711 Centerville Road, Suite 400, Wilmington, DE 19808, United States of America, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Trade Mark CauTion

nikon CorPoraTion, of 12-1, Yurakucho 1-chome, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan, is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following Trademark:-

reg. no. 536/2000 in respect of Articles of Earthenware, Porcelain, Chinaware and Glassware. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for WWrd iPCo LLC P. O. Box 60, Yangon. E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 27th February, 2012

reg. no. 11897/2011 in respect of Class 9: Large-scale integrated circuits for image processing, Image processors for digital cameras, Computer programs for large-scale integrated circuits, Digital cameras. Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said Trademark will be dealt with according to law. u nyunt Tin associates, Intellectual Property Law Firm P.O. Box 952, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 951 375754, Fax: 951 254321, Email: info@untlaw.com For nikon CorPoraTion Dated: 27th February, 2012

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Stark warning emerges from American science summit

change still run strong in the United VANCOUVER A stark theme emerged in this western Canadian city. Experts discussed thorny issues such States, with polls showing a nation last week from an annual scientific gettogether in Vancouver: the world must as censorship, opposition from religious divided on the threat posed by global be helped to believe in science again or groups in the United States to teaching warming. The AAAS meeting followed a evolution and climate change, and it could be too late to save our planet. development in the controversy over Science is under siege, top academics generally poor education standards. We have to plan for a future, whether research by American and and educators were warned repeatedly at the American Association for the considering the risk of climate change, Dutch scientists on a mutant form of Advancement of Science meeting as with nine to 10 billion people, said the bird flu virus which is potentially they were urged to better communicate Hans Rosling, a Swedish public health capable of spreading in humans expert famous for combating scientific should be made public. their work to the public. Bird flu experts at the World Health Scientific solutions are needed to ignorance with catchy YouTube Organisation meeting in Geneva the solve global crises from food and water videos. previous week had agreed shortages to environmental that the controversial research destruction but the public eventually now does not understand We have a planetary emergency and shouldafter more riskbe made public analysis science, leading US climate is done. change expert and NASA very few people recognise that. In the meantime, a scientist James Hansen told moratorium on further studies the meeting on February 20. Outgoing AAAS president Nina has been extended. We have a planetary emergency and Last year, American authorities Fedoroff, a renowned expert on life very few people recognise that. The theme of the five-day meeting, sciences and biotechnology, said a asked scientists not to publish details of attended by 8000 scientists from 50 growing anti-science attitude probably their research for fear the information could fall into the wrong hands and countries, was Flattening the world: lies in our own psyche. Belief systems, especially when unleash a lethal flu pandemic. Building a global knowledge society. I would not be in favour of stopping Its about persuading people to tinged with fear, are not easily dispersed believe in science, at a time when with facts, she said, noting that in the the science, Fedoroff said in Vancouver. disturbing numbers dont, said United States fewer people believe in The more we know about something, the better prepared we are to deal with meeting co-chair Andrew Petter, climate change each year. Scepticism and denial of climate unexpected outcomes. AFP president of Simon Fraser University

Plants regenerated from 30,000-year-old seeds

WASHINGTON Fruit seeds stored away by squirrels more than 30,000 years ago and found in Siberian permafrost have been regenerated into full flowering plants by scientists in Russia, a new study has revealed. The seeds of the herbaceous Silene stenophylla are by far the oldest plant tissue to have been brought back to life, said lead researchers Svetlana Yashina and David Gilichinsky of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The latest findings could be a landmark in research of ancient biological material and the race to potentially revive other species, including some that are extinct. They highlight the importance of permafrost itself in the search of an ancient genetic pool, that of preexisting life, which hypothetically has long since vanished from the earths surface, they wrote. The previous record for viable regeneration of ancient flora was with 2000year-old date palm seeds at the Masada fortress near the Dead Sea in Israel. The latest success is older by a significant order of magnitude, with researchers saying radiocarbon dating has confirmed the tissue to be 31,800 years old, give or take 300 years. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on February 21, described the discovery of 70 squirrel hibernation burrows on the bank of the lower Kolyma river, in Russias northeast Siberia, and containing hundreds of thousands of seed samples from various plants. The permafrost essentially acted as a giant freezer, enabling the squirreledaway seeds and fruit to survive for tens of thousands of years.

One of the regenerated Silene stenophylla plants. Pic: AFP/Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences Scientists were able to grow new specimens from such old plant material mainly because the burrows were quickly covered with ice, and then remained continuously frozen and never thawed, in effect preventing any permafrost degradation. In their lab near Moscow, the scientists sought to grow plants from mature S. Stenophylla seeds, but when that failed, they turned to the plants placental tissue, the fruit structure to which seeds attach, to successfully grow regenerated whole plants in pots under controlled light and temperature. Some earlier claims of regeneration have not held up to scientific scrutiny, but the Yashina/Gilichinsky team was careful to use radiocarbon dating to ensure that the seeds and fruit found in the permafrost were not modern contaminants from S. Stenophylla, which still grows on the Siberian tundra. AFP

US space hero marks historic anniversary

WASHINGTON Former astronaut John Glenn last week marked the 50th anniversary of his historic space flight with vivid memories but also regret over the state of the US space program. On February 20, 1962, Glenn blasted off from Cape Canaveral aboard an Atlas rocket to make three orbits around the Earth in just under five hours, a voyage that made him a national hero and restored confidence in Americas ability to compete in space with Russia. It seems to me like it was about a week or so ago, because I guess Ive recalled it quite often over the past 50 years and thats kept it fresh, Glenn told CNN on February 20. It was such an impressive thing at the time that its indelibly imprinted on my memory and I can recall those days very vividly. It was a bittersweet anniversary for the US hero because the first nation to land people on the Moon now depends on Russia for its manned space flights. Glenn had said the previous week that the administration of former president George W. Bush sacrificed US space ambitions by cutting NASAs funding. I think its too bad, he said. I just hope some of the efforts now to recreate our own (space) transportation system come through. NASA is relying on private enterprise to develop systems to replace the shuttle program, which is expected to happen in about five years. One of the companies, SpaceX, is scheduled to launch the first commercially built spacecraft to the International Space Station on March 20. AFP

Trade Mark CauTion

The Siam Cement Public Company Limited, a company incorporated in Thailand, of 1 Siam Cement Road, Bangsue Sub-district, Bangsue District, Bangkok, Thailand, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

reg. no. 10431/2011 in respect of Class 19: Cement, white cement, dry mortar, asbestos mortar for building, lime, concrete, fine plaster, general plaster, masonry mortar, asbestos cement. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for The Siam Cement Public Company Limited P. O. Box 60, Yangon. Email: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 27th February, 2012

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Briefs
Wave of attacks kills 42 in Iraq
BAGHDAD A wave of attacks blamed on al-Qaeda killed at least 42 people on February 23, in what Iraqs parliament speaker said was an attempt to derail an Arab League summit planned for the end of March. It was Iraqs deadliest day since January 14, when 53 people were killed in a suicide bombing outside the southern port of Basra. Parliament speaker Osama al-Nujaifi said the attacks aimed to derail the Arab League summit in Baghdad at the end of March and a planned national conference aimed at political reconciliation.

Outrage follows journalists deaths in Syria

PARIS Western powers condemned Syria for the killing of two foreign journalists on February 22, with Washington slamming the regimes shameless brutality and Paris holding Syrian authorities responsible. Veteran American correspondent Marie Colvin of Britains Sunday Times and French freelance photojournalist Remi Ochlik were killed in the city of Homs in what activists said was shelling by President Bashar al-Assads forces. Three other Western journalists were wounded in the attack on a makeshift media centre in the Baba Amr district, including Colvins British photographer colleague Paul Conroy and French reporter Edith Bouvier of Le Figaro. This tragic incident is another example of the shameless brutality of the Assad regime, US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland told AFP. France demanded access to the victims of the attack and summoned Syrias envoy to remind him of the intolerable nature of the Syrian governments behaviour, Foreign Minister Alain Juppe said in a statement. Damascus owes us an answer, Juppe said. France holds the Syrian authorities responsible and accountable for the deaths of the journalists. French President Nicolas Sarkozy said the incident was a further sign that Assad should give up power. This shows that enough is enough, this regime must go. There is no reason why Syrians should not have the right to live their lives, to killings as criminal. The escalation of violence in the country must be immediately brought to an end, Ashtons office said in a statement. John Witherow, the Sunday Times editor, earlier described Colvin, 56, as one of the greatest foreign correspondents of her generation and an extraordinary journalist. Fellow broadsheet The Guardian praised Colvins 30 years of tough, humane, highly intelligent reports from the worlds frontlines, the last only hours before she died. Ochlik, 28, was in Syria taking pictures for the IP3 Press agency, which he co-founded in 2005 and for which he had covered previous conflicts including the Arab Spring revolts in Tunisia and Egypt and the conflict in Libya. AFP

American correspondent Marie Colvin of Britains Sunday Times and French photojournalist Remi Ochlik. Pic: AFP freely choose their destiny, Sarkozy said. British Prime Minister David Cameron paid tribute to Colvin, saying her death in Syria showed the risks journalists face in exposing the truth. This is a desperately sad reminder of the risks that journalists take to inform the world of what is happening and the dreadful events in Syria, Cameron told parliament. Britain summoned the Syrian ambassador to the foreign ministry to lodge a protest over the deaths. European Union foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton described the

Libya deploys troops after tribal clashes

TRIPOLI Libyas army chief said on February 23 that troops were preparing to enter the southeastern desert city of Kufra to secure the area after deadly ethnic clashes. Units of the national army are at the airport of Kufra and will enter the city to secure it, Yussef alMangush told reporters in Tripoli, adding that the situation had been calm since the previous day. At least 113 people from the Toubu tribe and another 23 from the Zwai tribe have been killed since clashes erupted on February 12, said tribal sources.

UN committee bars Sri Lankan general

UNITED NATIONS A top UN peacekeeping committee on February 22 barred a Sri Lankan general accused of carrying out a military onslaught against civilians from taking part in its work. Major General Shavendra Silva attended the first meeting of the advisory panel to UN chief Ban Ki-moon, but Silva did not speak, no other member spoke to him and no documents were given to him, diplomats said. The nomination of Silva, Sri Lankas deputy UN ambassador, to the panel by Asia-Pacific countries at the United Nations set off a storm of protest by rights groups. A Canadian official who chairs the special advisory group said that Silvas presence was not appropriate. Silva has been accused of playing a central role in the Sri Lankan militarys crushing of a Tamil separatist uprising in 2009 in which tens of thousands of people died, according to UN experts and rights groups. Following careful consideration and consultation with other special advisory group members, the chair, Louise Frechette, has advised Major General Shavendra Silva of Sri Lanka, that his participation is not appropriate or helpful for the purposes of this group, Frechette said in a statement. He will not participate in its deliberations, added Frechette, a former UN deputy secretary general and top Canadian diplomat who was named by Ban to chair the committee. If Frechette had not acted this panel would just have fallen apart. Nobody wanted him on the panel, said one diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity. Silva has not faced any charges over his role in the military campaign. But a UN panel which investigated the Sri Lankan military campaign referred to the armys 58th division, which he led at the time. UN human rights chief Navi Pillay said she was deeply concerned at the impact of Silvas nomination on the credibility of UN peacekeeping, in a letter sent to Ban Ki-moon and other UN leaders, which was obtained by AFP. Pillay said in the letter there was a reasonable conclusion that there is, at the very least, the appearance of a case of international crimes to answer by Mr Silva. We keep a list of individuals who are suspected of committing human rights violations and I have addressed a letter of concern to the secretary-general about this individual, Pillay had told reporters the previous week. The peacekeeping panel was set up to fix payments to countries that contribute troops to UN missions. It has 10 members, half named by Ban and half nominated by regional groups. The UN secretariat had previously said it could do nothing about Silvas appointment as it was decided by member countries. Neither Silva nor Sri Lankas UN mission made an immediate comment on the action. AFP

Strauss-Kahn freed but faces more questioning

LILLE, France Former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn was freed from French police custody on February 22 after two days of questioning about an alleged prostitution ring but faces a further grilling next month. A judicial source said Strauss-Kahn, 62, once considered a front-runner to become the next president of France, would be summoned to appear before investigating magistrates on March 28 on charges linked to prostitution and corruption. The former Socialist minister was released after being detained at a police station in the northern city of Lille for questioning on the charges of abetting aggravated pimping by an organised gang and misuse of company funds. During his interrogation, Strauss-Kahn told investigators he did not suspect women he met at parties were prostitutes, as they were introduced to him by senior police officers, a source close to the probe said. Under French law, aggravated organised pimping carries a prison term of up to 20 years and profiting from embezzlement five years and a fine. Strauss-Kahn rejects any role in pimping or corruption and has indicated he will deny any criminal wrongdoing. Two businessmen, Fabrice Paszkowski, a medical equipment tycoon with ties to Strauss-Kahns Socialist Party, and David Roquet, former director of a local subsidiary of building giant BTP Eiffage, have already been charged in the French prostitution case. The pair is alleged to have links to a network of French and Belgian prostitutes centred on the Carlton Hotel in Lille. In all, eight people are facing trial in connection with the Carlton affair and the last of the sex parties is said to have taken place during a trip by a group from Lille to Washington between May 11 and 13 last year. On May 14, Strauss-Kahn was arrested in New York over allegations that he sexually assaulted a hotel chambermaid, Nafissatou Diallo. The case against him eventually collapsed when prosecutors began to doubt Diallos credibility as a witness. AFP

Answers sought after train carnage

BUENOS AIRES Argentine families demanded answers on February 23, a day after 50 people were killed and more than 700 injured when a packed commuter train plowed into a Buenos Aires rail terminus at rush hour. The train, carrying about 2000 passengers, slammed into a wall at a major railway station, sending carriages crashing into each other and crushing the passengers inside. Argentinas deadliest train tragedy in 1970 killed 236 people in northern Buenos Aires.

Fit as a fiddle Mugabe pushes for elections

HARARE Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, Africas oldest leader, declared himself as fit as a fiddle and pushed for new elections later this year as he celebrated his 88th birthday on February 21. The day will come when I will become sick, Mugabe said in an interview on state-owned Radio Zimbabwe, dismissing fears about his health. As of now I am fit as a fiddle. He poked fun at reports that suffers from a life-threatening disease. I have died many times, he said. Thats where I have beaten Christ. Christ died once and resurrected once. I have died and resurrected and I dont know how many times I will die and resurrect. Mugabe, in power since independence in 1980, said he will stand again in new elections that he insisted should be held this year with or without the new constitution required under Zimbabwes powersharing deal with Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai. Mugabe was chosen in December by his ZANU-PF party to stand again as its presidential candidate. There is no one who can stand and win at the moment, he said of the contenders in his party jostling to succeed him. We just must have elections. They just must take place with or without a new constitution. If others dont want to have an election then they are free not to participate, he told state television. Mugabes health has been the subject of much speculation, especially since WikiLeaks last year released a 2008 diplomatic cable saying central bank chief Gideon Gono had told then-US ambassador James McGee that Mugabe had prostate cancer and had been advised by doctors he had less than five years to live. Mugabes health has been cited as one reason that a faction of his ZANU-PF party has pushed to rush new elections. AFP

Seven held in US over rhino horns

NEW YORK US officials said on February 23 they had arrested seven people in a crackdown on the illegal global trade in endangered black rhinoceros horns. A total of US$1 million in cash and gold bars worth $1 million were seized during Operation Crash, which involved multiple law enforcement agencies, the US Department of Justice said in a statement. AFP

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe denies having a lifethreatening disease. Pic: AFP

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Putin backs unprecedented boost for Russian military

MOSCOW Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said last week Russia had launched unprecedented steps to boost the army as he played up his strongman credentials ahead of March 4 presidential polls he is likely to win. We have approved and are carrying out unprecedented programs to develop the armed forces and modernise Russias military defence complex, Putin wrote in state newspaper Rossiiskaya Gazeta on February 20 as he seeks a third Kremlin term. In the next decade, Russia will acquire more than 400 intercontinental ballistic missiles, eight nuclear-armed submarines and about 20 non-nuclear submarines, more than 600 warplanes and 28 S-400 missile defence systems, he said. In total we are allocating around 23 trillion rubles (US$773 billion) in the next decade for these aims, Putin said in his sixth campaign article listing his political goals. While Putin as prime minister for the last four years has not headed the armed forces, his latest article implicitly suggests he will be the one to see the plan through, without mentioning the elections. We must not tempt anyone with our weakness, he said. Russia must implement strong countermeasures to respond to NATOs planned deployment of a missile shield in Europe, he said, continuing a debate that has simmered for nearly a decade. The time demands decisive steps to strengthen a single system of air and space defence of our country. We are being pushed towards these actions by the policy of the United States and NATO on the question of deploying a missile shield, Putin wrote. He said Russia should not try to create a costly rival shield but that its strategic nuclear forces and air and space defence forces should aim to overcome any system of missile defence. In this question there cannot be too much patriotism, Putin said. He admitted deep problems with the military industrial complex, however, saying that while the armed forces should back domestic plants, it was unacceptable for them to buy obsolete technology. In the next decade we must fully make up for our lagging behind, he said. Military affairs analyst Alexander Golts said Putin had shown strong backing for reform of the Russian army, a plan that has provoked a backlash within the armed forces against Defence Minister Anatoly Serdyukov. Serdyukov has argued the reforms are essential to eradicate Soviet-era military structures but more conservative elements fear they will undermine the armys status as a key pillar of society. AFP

Talks with Iran deadlocked, says UN nuclear inspector

VIENNA The chief UN nuclear inspector probing Irans alleged atomic weapons drive said on February 22 that negotiations have reached an impasse following a high-stakes twoday visit to the Islamic republic. We tried to reach agreement on a way forward to resolve all the outstanding issues ... We approached this trip in a constructive spirit. Unfortunately we could not get agreement, Herman Nackaerts told reporters at Vienna airport. We could not get access (to the Parchin military site), we could not formalise the way forward. We will now report to the (IAEA) director general and later to the board of governors. Then we will have to see what are the next steps. The International Atomic Energy Agency said in a statement in earlier on February 22 that intensive efforts to reach a deal on a document covering the way forward had failed. The team requested access both during this visit and during a first trip in late January to Parchin, near Tehran, where it believes explosives testing was carried out, but Iran did not grant permission, the IAEA said. It is disappointing that Iran did not accept our request to visit Parchin during the first or second meetings, IAEA director general Yukiya Amano said in the statement. Irans envoy to the IAEA, Ali Asghar Soltanieh, was quoted by the Iranian news agency ISNA as saying the talks would continue but neither he nor the IAEA said whether another visit was planned. Speaking after the visit, Irans supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei insisted that the regime in Tehran was not seeking nuclear weapons. We are not after an atomic weapon. We want to break the supremacy (of the world powers) that relies on nuclear weapons. God willing, the nation will reach this goal, he told a meeting with Iranian nuclear scientists, said an official government statement. The high-ranking IAEA team led by Nackaerts hoped to clarify issues raised in a watershed November report from the agency that substantially raised suspicions that Iran had done work developing nuclear weapons. The trip was also seen as an important precursor to a possible resumption of talks between Iran and the P5+1 powers, the United States, China, Russia, France, Britain and Germany, which broke down in Turkey 13 months ago. Since the reports publication, the United States and the European Union have ramped up sanctions on Irans oil sector, and speculation has grown that Irans arch rival Israel might launch air strikes. Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, has announced the halt of oil sales to Britain and France sending the price of crude soaring and has defiantly trumpeted advances in its nuclear program. Iran, whose economy has been hit hard by the recent ramping up of sanctions, has consistently denied wanting nuclear weapons, insisting its program, including the enrichment of uranium, is for peaceful purposes. The UN Security Council has imposed four rounds of sanctions on Iran because of its repeated failure to declare nuclear sites and materials to the IAEA. AFP

Israeli settlements are not constructive: US

WASHINGTON The United States said on February 22 that Israels settlement activity was not constructive for Middle East peace after a committee approved a plan for 500 new homes in the northern West Bank. An Israeli committee legalised the outpost of Shvut Rachel, which had been unauthorised. Officials said the committee gave legal status to about 195 existing homes and gave the go-ahead for some 500 new houses. State Department spokesman Mark Toner said he was not familiar with the latest approval of settlements but reiterated that the United States opposes such moves. We dont believe its in any way constructive to getting both sides back to the negotiating table, Toner told reporters. Yariv Oppenheimer, head of the settlement watchdog Peace Now, described the move as one of the biggest projects in the territories. The decision proved Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was doing everything he could to prevent the creation of two states for two peoples, he told AFP. The Palestinian Authority and Israeli peace activists condemned the latest settlement approval, saying that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is setting back the already slow diplomacy aimed at a two-state solution. Israel considers settlement outposts built without government approval to be illegal and often sends security personnel to demolish them, although in recent months the government has announced its intention to retroactively legalise some of them. More than 310,000 Israelis live in settlements in the occupied West Bank. Another 200,000 live in a dozen settlement neighbourhoods in east Jerusalem, which was captured by Israel in 1967 and annexed in a move never recognised by the international community. AFP

Faster-than-light claim a mistake, says journal

WASHINGTON A European experiment last September that showed particles moving faster than the speed of light has been exposed as a mistake due to a faulty wire connection, the US journal Science said on February 22. A bad connection between a GPS unit and a computer may be to blame, said the report on the magazines website section Science Insider, citing sources familiar with the experiment. The initial findings sparked intrigue and scepticism in the scientific community because the discovery, if confirmed, would have been at odds with Einsteins theory of relativity, which has held sway for more than a century. The neutrinos arrived 60 nanoseconds earlier that the 2.3 milliseconds taken by light, in experiments conducted between the European Centre for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Switzerland and a laboratory in Italy. Scientists blasted a beam producing billions upon billions of neutrinos from CERN, which straddles the French-Swiss border near Geneva, to the Gran Sasso Laboratory 730 kilometres (453 miles) away in Italy. Neutrinos are electrically neutral particles so small that were only recently found to have mass. The report in Science Insider said the 60 nanoseconds discrepancy appears to come from a bad connection between a fiber optic cable that connects to the GPS receiver used to correct the timing of the neutrinos flight and an electronic card in a computer. After tightening the connection and then measuring the time it takes data to travel the length of the fiber, researchers found that the data arrive 60 nanoseconds earlier than assumed, it added. Since this time is subtracted from the overall time of flight, it appears to explain the early arrival of the neutrinos. New data, however, will be needed to confirm this hypothesis. AFP

Revellers from the Academicos do Salgueiro samba school perform during the second night of the carnival parade at the Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro on February 20. The Brazilian capitals famed pre-Lent celebrations reached an ecstatic climax on February 21, with the citys top 13 samba schools treating a capacity crowd of 72,500 at the Sambadrome to stunning dance displays and exquisitely decorated floats. Pic: AFP

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Palestinian ends hunger strike after agreement for freedom

JERUSALEM A Palestinian prisoner has ended a 66-day hunger strike over his detention without charge under a deal that will see him freed in April, Palestinian and Israeli officials told AFP on February 21. The Israeli court decided to release Khader Adnan on April 17 and based on that he ended his hunger strike, Palestinian prisoner affairs minister Issa Qaraqaa said, with the details confirmed by a spokesman for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An agreement has been reached between lawyers of both parties that Khader Adnan ends his hunger strike, and if there is no new evidence against him, he will be released from custody on April 17, Ofir Gendelman told AFP. Adnan, 33, was detained on December 17 and began refusing food a day later to protest his detention without charge and his alleged mistreatment by interrogators. His protest, the longest hunger strike carried out by any Palestinian prisoner, has attracted international attention and thrown a spotlight on Israels use of administrative detention, a military procedure which allows suspects to be held without charge. Details of the agreement were made public just hours before the Israeli Supreme Court was to hear an appeal against Adnans detention without charge. The hearing was subsequently cancelled. Adnans wife, Randa Mussa, hailed the deal as a victory for her husband, whom medics said had lost more than 40 percent of his body weight during the previous nine weeks. He forced the occupation to give in to his demands and I hope he returns safe to us, she told AFP. Israeli officials have described Adnan, a spokesman for the Islamic Jihad movement, as a terrorist although he has never been charged with any offence, nor has any evidence against him been made public. In January, a military court handed down a fourmonth administrative detention order against Adnan. He appealed against the order earlier in February in an unusual court session held at his hospital bed in the northern Israeli town of Safed, but the court rejected his appeal, prompting his lawyer to turn to Israels top court. Doctors from Physicians for Human Rights-Israel who met Adnan had warned that his health was failing and that he faced immediate danger of death if he continued to refuse food. AFP

Ballot ends Yemeni leaders rule

SANAA Yemeni voters very strong and positive ended President Ali Abdullah referendum by the Yemeni Salehs 33-year rule in a people on the transition historic ballot on February process that their leaders 21, pinning hopes on a have agreed to, she told new leader faced with the reporters. Nuland acknowledged that massive task of rebuilding an impoverished and war- a one-person vote was not a true democracy but called ravaged country. Polling stations closed it a beginning point. After voting at a crowded after a day of voting marred by deadly clashes in the Sanaa University polling south that left nine people s t a t i o n n e a r C h a n g e Square, the focal point of dead, including a child. mass protests The only last year name on the demanding ballot was Today is a Salehs ouster, that of Vice P r e s i d e n t remarkable day. college student Abdullah Ali Abdrabuh said: Today is Mansur Hadi, who will lead Yemen for a the real fall of Ali Abdullah two-year interim period as Saleh. Women also came out in stipulated by a Gulf-brokered power-transition deal signed strength in the capital. In a mad dash to a Sanaa by Saleh in November. The United States hailed polling booth just minutes the vote and called for before closing time, firstprogress ahead in Yemens time voter Muneera Raddai, 19, covered in a full black transition to democracy. We are encouraged and veil, was optimistic her vote we congratulate the Yemenis would mean a better future for really launching this for Yemen. Today is a remarkable process, taking ownership of it as a population, and we day, she said, adding that will stand with them as they now we can start building a take the next steps, State new and better Yemen. The Arab worlds Department spokeswoman first female Nobel peace Victoria Nuland said. We consider it to be a laureate, Tawakkul Karman, bringing together all parties, especially those who have so far not taken part in the current political process, said Jamal Benomar, referring to southern separatists and northern rebels who boycotted the polls. The deep divisions and conflicts that still plague the Arab worlds poorest country were evident as Yemenis voted. At least nine people were killed in the south, including a child, three civilians and four members of the police and security forces, while dozens of others were wounded, medics and security officials said. The 10-year-old child was killed near the election commission headquarters of the souths main port city of Aden when southern separatists traded gunfire with police. The separatists also seized half of the polling booths in Aden and set tyres ablaze to disrupt movement, forcing officials to end voting there three hours early, security officials said. The separatists, who said the election fails to meet their aspirations for autonomy or independence, boycotted the poll. AFP

The Arab worlds first female Nobel peace laureate, Tawakkul Karman, votes at a polling station in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, on February 21. Pic: AFP welcomed the poll as a day of celebration, though she warned Hadi to work for young people who took to the streets a year ago or else they will force him out just as they did Saleh. Hadi cast his ballot amid cheers and applause at a polling station near his home in the capital, with close aides saying he was surrounded by heavy security because of death threats. This is a historic day for Yemen ... we will put the past behind us and turn a new page on which we will write a new future, said Hadi. The road ahead remains ripe with risk and potential pitfalls, warned Yemens UN envoy. The February 21 election must be followed by a farreaching national dialogue

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Santorum turns race on its head

Analysis by Andrew Gully
WASHINGTON On February 6, it all seemed so clear. Mitt Romney had won landslides in Florida and Nevada and looked set to soon lock up the Republican presidential nomination to take on Barack Obama in November. But if a week is a long time in US politics, two weeks is an age. The meteoric rise of Christian conservative Rick Santorum, a strong opponent of gay marriage and abortion, has turned the race on its head. Victories on February 7 in Minnesota, Missouri and Colorado have catapulted Santorum from a distant third to first a midFebruary Gallup poll gave the former Pennsylvania senator an eight percentage point lead over Romney nationally. Should he pull off a win on February 28 in Romneys home state of Michigan, all bets will be off and the Republican establishment will be left facing the spectre of a bitter fight all the way to its August 27-30 convention. There is no disguising the fact that Santorums views on subjects such as homosexuality and abortion are out of step with many Americans and some are predicting there will be panic in the Republican Party should he win Michigan. At the heart of the matter is the fact that his brand of highly moralistic social conservatism, which plays well in the Republican primary season, is seen as sharply at odds with the centrist message needed to win a general election. Romney carries baggage from his governorship of liberal Massachusetts, including well-documented flip-flops on gay marriage and abortion, and has demonstrated an inability to connect with core Republican voters. It is anyones guess whether his campaigns superiority in terms of wealth and organisation will be enough to carry him over the line. In a sign of growing Rick Santorum is regarded as having bona fide conservative credentials. Pic: AFP Hed lose 35 states, the later contests and win time Democratic hopeful desperation, a prominent Republican senator told ABC senator said, predicting the enough delegates to present Howard Dean, disagreed, News recently that if Romney same fate for former House themselves at the convention saying that if Romney loses Michigan, the train as the partys saviour. loses Michigan, the party speaker Newt Gingrich. Karl Rove, George W. wreck keeps happening If no one reaches the magic should try to entice a new number of 1144 delegates Bushs chief strategist, and someone new will likely candidate into the race. jump in. Wed get N a m e s killed, the unnamed There are predictions of panic in the Republican Party beingu bandied abo t are senator replied when asked if Santorum wins the Michigan primary on February 28. former Florida g o v e r n o r how Romney Jeb Bush, would then fare against Obama. Hed in the state-by-state voting dismissed the idea as about House budget committee be too damaged, if he cant battle, it allows for what is as remote as life on Pluto on c h a i r m a n P a u l R y a n , even win in Michigan, where called a brokered convention, Fox News on February 19, Florida Senator Marco his family is from, where he when backroom deals are accusing pundits of suffering Rubio, Indiana Governor needed to push a certain from premature electionitis Mitch Daniels, and even grew up. former Alaska governor and so early on in the contest. What about Santorum, candidate over the top. But Joe Trippi, former vice presidential candidate A new candidate could a former US senator from theoretically enter the campaign manager to one- Sarah Palin. Pennsylvania? All of these people have refused already and it has only become harder since that time, The Wall Street Journals Kimberley Strassel said on Fox News Sunday on February 19. Desperate to stop the rot, Romney has retooled his Michigan campaign with a barrage of attacks on Santorum and was planning a big economic speech on February 24 at Ford Field, home to the Detroit Lions American football team. Even if he wins Michigan and does well the same night in Arizona, another supposed Romney stronghold, Santorum faces an uphill battle against his opponents financial and organisational muscle. But he has a multimillionaire backer in controversial Christian businessman Foster Friess, and he has something that money cant buy and Romney desperately lacks: bona fide conservative credentials. The most likely scenario, especially if Gingrich continues to win some conservative backing and libertarian Ron Paul shores up his support base, is a long battle all the way to the convention. The White House, buoyed by improving economic data, is licking its lips at this prospect as Obama holds himself up above the fray as the only adult in the room fighting for middle class Americans. AFP

Malaysian historical group hunts for wartime wreckage

KUALA LUMPUR They trek for days through leech-infested swamps and up rainlashed mountain jungles, but the members of the Malaya Historical Group are not seeking treasure or ancient artefacts. Instead, theyre after rusty wreckage. During the past decade, the six amateur Malaysian military historians have helped find the confirmed or suspected crash sites of 30 World War II aircraft helping bring closure for the families of more than 40 missing British and American air crews. Nearly 70 years after the end of the war, at least 100 British and American aircraft wrecks are believed scattered in the jungles of India, Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar, along with the remains of their crews. As well as the battles for the Pacific Islands, allied forces waged war against Japanese forces whose regional conquests included previously British-held Singapore and Malaysia known then as Malaya. What we do is to find whichever wrecks are in Malaysia and help identify them so that relatives can get closure after waiting for more than six decades, says the groups leader Shaharom Ahmad. During the week, Shaharom, 37, is a technical engineer with Malaysian state news agency Bernama. But he and his fellow war buffs have carried out 40 weekend expeditions during the last decade, searching for the wrecks of long-missing allied aircraft that crashed or were shot down. Such sites are a crucial part of the story of the war in the Pacific, said military historian Christopher McDermott, who works for the US Joint Prisoner of War/ Missing In Action Accounting Command (JPAC). He said at least 550 Americans went missing over the jungles and seas of Southeast Asia as a result of air raids, patrols, and cargo and reconnaissance missions. Finding crash sites, he adds, can provide areas on treks that take several days, often in dense jungle. Once found, sites are left undisturbed but meticulously photographed and the pictures are uploaded to their website, mhg. mymalaya.com. From there, a worldwide network of similarly minded amateur war buffs weighs in, analysing the find. Within a matter of days, sometimes hours, we are able to indentify the wrecks and even get hold of the family of the pilots who were missing for so many years to tell them that the remains of their loved ones have been found, Shaharom said. Started as a hobby in 1996, the groups work soon became a passion after members were moved by the heartfelt responses of airmens families. Its work is funded by members or whatever private donations they can scrape together. In one case, the group in 2009 reached and identified the crash of a US Air Force DC-3 transport that disappeared shortly after the war over the northern state of Perak during a routine flight in November 1945. Its remains had first been spotted from the air in 1966 but nothing was done until the Malaysian wreck hunters found the site and pilots relatives were contacted via the internet. JPAC is planning an excavation in 2013. Holding a pair of smashed aviator glasses that helped to identify the American wreck, Shaharom says the group has made all sorts of finds. We have found exploded ammunition from the planes, landing gears, even the remains of several Japanese aircraft, of which there are 22 that crashed here during the war, with most still missing, he said. As he spoke, Shaharom showed a metal knob bearing a Mitsubishi logo and serial number. It came from the crash site of a Japanese bomber found by the group and since identified as part of the initial December 8, 1941 attack on Malaya. The group has approached Japanese authorities about such finds but found little interest in pursuing identification. One particularly heart-wrenching find was the discovery of two rings, a dagger and part of a watch that had melted and fused with the aircrafts fuselage in the fiery crash of a British plane, he said. Knowing that these items were on people who died in these very sites was really moving. It really connected us to these warriors, Shaharom added. Providing a dignified burial to the remains of the dead can be a challenge. In central Negeri Sembilan state in 2006, Shaharom and his team found the August 1945 wreck of a Royal Air Force B24 Liberator bomber that research shows was carrying supplies for Force 136, a British Special Operations unit. British officials initially rejected the discovery, relenting only after the wreck hunters went back and obtained engine serial numbers. They declined, however, to fund or recover the human remains. Shaharoms group recovered them with private funding in 2009. Sue Raftree, an official with a British defence ministry unit dealing with such issues, told AFP that policy decisions mean that the British government does not actively search for remains and discourages unofficial excavations, viewing such sites as war graves. However the crews relatives insisted that the remains be given a proper burial and they are due to be interred in a Malaysian military cemetery early next year. Such delays can imperil wreck sites, says Shaharom, referring the crash of a Japanese fighter found by locals in northern Kedah state in 2001. They just removed the pilot, cut the aircraft into pieces and sold it as scrap. This is our worry. AFP

Malaya Historical Group members and trail guides pictured on August 31, 2009 with a propeller from a Vickers Valetta transport plane which crashed in the northern Malaysian state of Kelantan. Pic: AFP/Malaya Historical Group positive identification for the return of remains to the families of the missing service members. Shaharom says the groups research into American and British archives indicate the wrecks of at least 15 to 20 allied aircraft are still yet to be examined in Malaysia. Seven of the sites have been discovered so far, but the whereabouts of the others are not yet known. Guided by whatever, often sketchy, information is available from a flights last location, the groups members search likely

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Briefs
US, North Korea hold talks in Beijing
BEIJING The first talks between the United States and North Korea since the death of Kim Jong-Il entered their second day in Beijing on February 24. Glyn Davies, coordinator for US policy on North Korea, is meeting a delegation from Pyongyang led by veteran negotiator Kim KyeGwan. The talks are seen as a chance for Washington to clarify what policies are planned by North Koreas new leader Kim Jong-Un plans and to try to work with Pyongyang to resume six-nation talks on ending its nuclear weapons program.

Obama apologises to Afghans

KABUL President Barack Obama was forced to apologise on February 23 over the burning of Korans at a US airbase in Afghanistan, where three days of violent protests had left 14 people dead, including two American soldiers. Kabul was bracing on February 24 for further anti-US demonstrations that have seen furious Afghans attack French, Norwegian and US bases after the Taliban exhorted their countrymen to kill foreign troops to avenge the incident. Afghanistan is a deeply religious country where slights against Islam have often provoked violent protests, and many Afghans are incensed at the discovery of charred Korans at Bagram airbase north of Kabul. In a letter to Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Obama expressed deep regret over the incident that he said had been unintentional, and pledged that those responsible would be held accountable, Kabul said. I extend to you and the Afghan people my sincere apologies, Obama wrote in the letter presented to Karzai by US ambassador Ryan Crocker on February 23. The error was inadvertent; I assure you that we will take the appropriate steps to avoid any recurrence, to include holding accountable those responsible. Karzai said a US officer was responsible out of ignorance for the Koran burning, the presidents office said. Taliban urged Afghans to kill foreign troops to avenge the Koran burning, although the insurgents stopped short of cutting off tentative peace contacts with US officials in Qatar. In Mihtarlam, the capital of Laghman province east of Kabul, thousands besieged the base of a US-led military-civilian provincial reconstruction team (PRT), throwing rocks and climbing up the outer walls, police said. About 2000 protesters also tried to march on the French base in Kapisa, east of Kabul, but were pushed back by Afghan security forces, regional police chief General Abdul Hameed Erken told AFP. Karzai had called for calm pending a full investigation and ordered his own security forces to avoid violence and protect lives and property. But the Taliban, leading a 10year insurgency against Karzais government, sought to exploit the anti-American sentiment. You should bring the invading forces military bases under your brave attack, their military convoys, kill them, capture them, beat them and teach them a lesson that they will never again dare to insult the Holy Koran, they said in a statement. US officials speaking on condition of anonymity told AFP the military removed Korans from a prison at Bagram because inmates were suspected of using the holy book to pass messages to each other. AFP

Afghan policemen run from protesters in Kabul on February 23 during clashes triggered by the desecration of the Muslim holy book, the Koran, at a US airbase. Pic: AFP Obamas apology came in for strong criticism back home, with partisan politics playing a part as competition builds in a presidential election year. It is an outrage that President Obama is the one apologising to Afghan President Karzai on the same day two American troops were murdered and four others injured by an Afghan soldier, Republican presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich said. It is Hamid Karzai who owes the American people an apology, not the other way around. But White House spokesman Jay Carney said the apology, which came in a broader three-page letter to Karzai, was absolutely the right thing to do. His primary concern as commander in chief is the safety of American men and women in Afghanistan, of our military and civilian personnel there, Carney said. The two Americans were shot dead by an Afghan soldier at their base in Khogyani in eastern Nangarhar province, district governor Mohammad Hassan told AFP. At least three Afghans were also killed by gunfire at demonstrations in the south and east of the country, bringing the total death toll among protesters to 12 since February 22. The violence came after the

TEPCO to cement Fukushima seabed

TOKYO The operator of Japans tsunami-crippled nuclear plant is to cover a swathe of seabed near the battered reactors with cement in a bid to halt the spread of radiation, the company said on February 22. A clay-cement compound will cover 73,000 square metres (785,000 square feet) of the ocean floor in front of the Fukushima Daiichi plant, said Tokyo Electric Power Co (TEPCO). This is meant to prevent further contamination of the ocean... as sample tests have shown a relatively high concentration of radioactive substances in the sea soil in the bay, a TEPCO spokeswoman said.

Pink diamond sets Down Under record

SYDNEY Mining giant Rio Tinto said on February 22 it has unearthed a remarkable 12.76 carat pink diamond in Australia, the largest of the rare and precious stones found in the resources-rich nation. Named the Argyle Pink Jubilee, the huge rough stone was found at Rios pink diamond operations in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, the miner said. This rare diamond is generating incredible excitement, said Josephine Johnson from Rios Argyle Pink Diamonds division. A diamond of this calibre is unprecedented it has taken 26 years of Argyle production to unearth this stone and we may never see one like this again. Though it would not speculate on how much the Jubilee was worth, Rio said extremely high quality pink diamonds could fetch in excess of US$1 million a carat, meaning it is likely to fetch at least $10 million. A Rio spokesman told AFP the recent discovery was named in honour of Britains Queen Elizabeth II, who is celebrating 60 years since her accession to the throne her diamond jubilee. Rio produces more than 90 percent of the worlds pink diamonds from the Argyle mine, and said large stones like the Jubilee typically went to museums, were gifted to royalty or are sold at prestigious auction houses like Christies. Christies had only auctioned 18 polished pink diamonds larger than 10 carats in its 244-year history, Rio added. AFP

Trade Mark CauTionarY noTiCe

Notice is hereby given that our client, Inter-Continental Hotels Corporation, having its principal office at Three Ravinia Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30346-2149 U.S.A. is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark:

Hasina backs Yunus to head World Bank

DHAKA Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has proposed that Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus become the next president of the World Bank. Hasina told visiting EU parliamentarians on February 23 that her compatriot Yunus, former head of microlender Grameen Bank, was respected for his pioneering role in using small loans to combat poverty. World Bank president Robert Zoellick will step down at the end of his fiveyear term on June 30.

The 12.76 carat Argyle Pink Jubilee. Pic: AFP/Rio Tinto

Trade Mark CauTion

kao kaBuSHiki kaiSHa (also trading as kao Corporation), a corporation duly organized under the laws of Japan, of 14-10, Nihonbashi Kayabacho 1-chome, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

(Reg. No. 4/879/2012) To be used in connection with hotels and restaurant and catering services; providing business facilities and equipment for hotel guests; cocktail lounge and nightclub services; arranging travel and tour packages, including, hotel, airfare, car rental and sightseeing options; hotel reservation services; health and fitness club services; and all other services customary to the hotel trade. Our abovementioned client has instructed us and wishes us to bring to the notice of the trade and public that they attach singular importance to their abovementioned Trade Mark and that legal action will be taken against any person or persons who act in infringement of the rights of our client. Any inquiry relative thereto may be referred to ourselves being their agent. Soe Win Advocate #0502/5 Sakura Tower Ph: 255055/255407 For Hilborne, Hawkin & Co. 2875 Michelle Drive, Suite 170 Irvine, California 92606 United States of America Telephone: (714) 283-1155 Facsimile: (714) 283-1555 Email: info(g),hilbornehawkin.com Dated: 27th February, 2012

Olympus executive in apparent suicide

NEW DELHI A senior executive of scandalwracked Japanese firm Olympus has been found dead in a park outside his flat near New Delhi in an apparent suicide, Indian media reports said on February 21. Tsutomi Omori, 49, managing director of Olympus Medical Systems in India, was found hanging from iron railings in his luxury apartment compound, the Times of India said. AFP

reg. no. 8792/2008 in respect of intl Class 21: Household or kitchen utensils and containers (not of precious metal or coated therewith); combs and sponges; brushes (except paint brushes), perfume atomizers (containers), cosmetic brushes, eye brow brushes, hair brushes, nail brushes, shaving brushes, hair combs, powder compacts not of precious metals (containers), dispensers for liquid soap, soap holders, sponge holders, powder puffs. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for kao kaBuSHiki kaiSHa P. O. Box 60, Yangon. Dated: 27th February, 2012

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South Korea issues plea to Beijing on defectors

SEOUL South Koreas President Lee Myung-Bak last week urged China to handle fugitives from North Korea under international norms, adding to growing pressure on Beijing not to repatriate them. When it comes to the North Korean defectors, it is right for the Chinese government to handle them in line with international rules as long as they are not criminals, Lee told a news conference on February 22 in his first comment on the issue. Seouls foreign ministry, legislators and activists are urging Beijing not to send a group of recently arrested fugitives from the North back to their homeland. Activists say returnees face severe punishment or even the death sentence. China on February 21 reiterated its stance that the fugitives from the North are illegal economic migrants. Rights groups insist they are refugees deserving protection. The relevant people entered China illegally due to economic reasons. They are illegal border crossers, they are not within the category of refugees, foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters. This issue does not fall under the relevant UN mechanism. South Korea has said it will seek UN support to try to prevent those recently detained from being sent back. Activists and lawmakers in Seoul say about 30 North Koreans will be repatriated. The Souths foreign ministry has only confirmed that 10 are in danger of being returned. More than 21,700 North Koreans have fled to the South since the 1950-1953 war, the vast majority in recent years. They typically escape on foot to China, hide out and then travel to a third country to seek resettlement in the South. A separate group of 11 North Korean refugees has been trapped in South Korean consulates in Beijing and Shenyang for almost three years because China refuses to let them leave for the South. AFP

Tibetan monks dressed as demons perform during a Tibetan New Year ceremony at the Yonghe Temple in Beijing on February 21. Pic: AFP

Arroyo pleads not guilty to rigging 2007 election

MANILA Former Philippine president Gloria Arroyo pleaded not guilty on February 23 to rigging an election, denouncing the charge that could see her jailed for life as part a vilification campaign against her. Arroyo is accused of conspiring with a political warlord to rig the 2007 senatorial elections, one of many corrupt acts her successor, Benigno Aquino, alleges she committed during her near-decade in power. Not guilty, Arroyo, 64, told the judge in a tiny Manila courthouse. In a statement issued after the court hearing, Arroyo insisted that Aquino was unfairly harassing her. Despite the continuous and massive vilification campaign against me and my family, I have always said that I will dispute all charges in the proper forum, she said. Prosecutors allege that Arroyo ordered that ballots in 2007 elections be switched in the southern province of Maguindanao so that one of her allies won the final position available in the nations Senate. Arroyo is alleged to have conspired with then-Maguindanao governor and close political ally Andal Ampatuan Snr to tamper with the ballots. Ampatuan Snr, who had a reputation as a ruthless political warlord, is a codefendant in the vote-rigging case. He is also facing multiple murder charges for allegedly organising with his relatives in 2009 the massacre of 57 people in Maguindanao to stop a rivals election challenge, an event that forced Arroyo to end their alliance. Aquino, the son of democracy heroes, won a landslide election victory in 2010 on a vow to fight corruption that has plagued Philippine society for decades but he said worsened dramatically during Arroyos reign. Arroyo has been the top target of his anti-graft campaign. She was charged in December with a second criminal offence in relation to a US$330-million telecom deal with a Chinese firm, in which her husband and a political ally allegedly received kickbacks. Three weeks after Arroyos arrest for alleged vote-rigging, Aquinos allies in the lower house of parliament also impeached Supreme Court chief justice Renato Corona on charges of corruption and protecting the ex-president. The Senate is conducting a lengthy trial to determine if the impeachment was valid and whether Corona, appointed by Arroyo just before she stepped down in 2010, should be sacked. In a speech on Tuesday, Aquino warned his anti-corruption efforts hinged on successful prosecutions of Arroyo and Corona. We want to send a stern yet simple message: justice evades no one. There are no exceptions in our campaign against corruption, he said. No date has been set for Arroyos trial, which could take years to complete. AFP

China issues complaint over massacre denial

BEIJING China said last week it had made an official complaint to Tokyo after the mayor of a Japanese city denied the well-documented massacre of Chinese civilians by Japanese troops in 1937. Beijing has launched solemn representations to the Japanese side, foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told a regular briefing on February 22. China says 300,000 people were killed that year in an orgy of murder, rape and destruction when the eastern city of Nanjing then the capital fell to the Japanese army, and the incident has haunted Sino-Japanese ties ever since. Takashi Kawamura, mayor of Nagoya, told Liu Zhiwei, a high-level Chinese official visiting from Nanjing, that he believes only a conventional fight took place, Kawamuras office told AFP. During talks on February 20 between the two whose cities were twinned in 1978 Kawamura, whose father was in Nanjing in 1945 at the end of the Japanese occupation of China, denied that mass murders and rapes happened. I doubt that the Nanjing massacre had happened... I propose to have a debate about the truth, Kawamura said. Kawamuras comments triggered outrage in China and the Nanjing municipal party committee announced late on February 21 it had suspended ties with Nagoya. AFP

Bomb plot exposes Thailands security gaps: experts

By Amelie Bottollier-Depois BANGKOK A bungled bomb plot by Iranian suspects in Bangkok has highlighted Thailands vulnerability to terrorist attacks, experts said last week. The tourist magnet is seen as a soft target because of the easy entry it grants to foreign visitors as part of efforts to boost the economy. While the alleged plot to kill Israeli diplomats in the Thai capital was unsuccessful, it only came to light after a series of apparently accidental explosions rocked a residential neighbourhood on February 14. Thai officials have denied the blasts which came a month after the United States warned of a terror strike in the capital were a terrorist incident on the basis that individuals rather than the general public were the targets. The explosions came a month after police found a large amount of chemicals in a house near Bangkok be for fear of damaging tourism, not Thailands first lucky escape. In 1994, police stumbled across that could be used to make a bomb. Patrikainen said. Thai intelligence gathering is a massive bomb hidden in a A Lebanese suspect was arrested in complicated by factors including truck involved in a minor traffic connection with that incident. The safety scares dealt a new poor coordination among the various accident near the Israeli embassy in blow to a tourism industry still police and government agencies Bangkok. An Iranian suspect in the incident was sentenced to death. recovering from the fallout of involved, say experts. Eighteen years later, weve been Furthermore, while the kingdom months of devastating floods last year, as well as political unrest in is no stranger to attacks, it has lucky again... We cannot rely on luck every time, recent years. said Thitinan Thailand is worried that the Eighteen years later, weve been lucky again... Pongsudhirak, director of the bombings will be Institute of yet another blow We cannot rely on luck every time. Security and to the countrys International image as a safe tourist destination, particularly if little experience dealing with Studies at Bangkoks Chulalongkorn University. it admits the blasts were a terrorist international terrorists. He said Thai authorities needed Thailand appears as a sitting attack, said Maria Patrikainen, Southeast Asia political analyst for duck, said Paul Chambers, director to be more vigilant and proactive. So far they have not had very of research at the South East research firm IHS Janes. While the kingdom stepped up Asian Institute of Global Studies at good intelligence. There has been security after the 2002 bombings on Payap University in Chiang Mai in poor coordination, poor analysis, he said, noting that the initial warning the Indonesian resort island of Bali northern Thailand. It is more surprising that such of a potential attack had come from which left more than 200 people dead, procedures particularly bombings have not happened the US embassy. Some observers attribute the regarding visas have not been before, he added. The failed attack in February was security weaknesses in part to tightened as much as they could the political turbulence that has rocked Thailand since a 2006 coup which ousted controversial premier Thaksin Shinawatra. There has been so much disarray in Thai politics and Thailands political class has been so focused on other things that having a serious discussion on matters like security hasnt been possible, said Michael Montesano, a research fellow at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore. Thailands national police has capable people aware of threats to foreign targets on Thai soil, he said. But like members of bureaucracies anywhere they face big challenges in terms of coordination with other parts of the government, Montesano said. We need someone to move beyond this state of denial and take real leadership. If recent events prove a wake-up call for the Thais to evolve capacities, it would be a blessing in disguise. AFP

Time out
Rowling to publish book for adults
LONDON Harry Potter author J K Rowling has written a novel for adults, which she said would be very different from her best-selling books about the boy wizard, her publishers announced last week. Publishers Little, Brown said they would release further details about the book, including the title and worldwide publishing date in print and electronic form, later in the year. Although Ive enjoyed writing it every bit as much, my next book will be very different to the Harry Potter series, Rowling said in a statement. The British writer has changed publishers for the project, leaving behind Bloomsbury, with whom she became the worlds bestpaid author. The freedom to explore new territory is a gift that Harrys success has brought me, and with that new territory it seemed a logical progression to have a new publisher, she said. I am delighted to have a second publishing home in Little, Brown, and a publishing team that will be a great partner in this new phase of my writing life. Her new editor, David Shelley, said the publisher was thrilled, honoured and proud to be working with Rowling, adding that for him, it was a personal and professional dream come true. She is one of the best storytellers in the world, and I am looking forward enormously to helping bring her new novel for adults to her fans and admirers, and to introducing her writing to new readers the world over, he said. Little, Brown will publish the book in Britain and the United States, while Hachette will be the publisher in Australia and New Zealand. Rowling laid down her pen and Harrys magic wand when she finished the seventh and final Potter book in 2007, which have sold more than 450 million copies around the world. The books were made into eight films, with the last, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2, making more than US$1 billion last year. Rowling is Britains 15 th wealthiest woman, according to The Sunday Times newspapers Rich List 2011, with a 530 million ($830 million) fortune. AFP By Nuam Bawi A CONCERT by singer Saung Oo Hlaing at the National Theatre on February 17 raised K12.6 million in donations, two-thirds of which were given to two social organisations at a ceremony held in Yangon last week. I raised K9 million from the concert and audience members donated an additional K3.6 million for a total of K12.6 million, Saung Oo Hlaing said. He said he split the money into three portions of K4.2 million each, donating the first to the Funeral Free Service Society Yangon (FFSS) and the second to 88 Generation Students at a ceremony at FFSS headquarters in Yangon on February 22. The third portion was intended for an orphanage t o w h i c h M RT V- 4 o f t e n donates, but the TV stations Social Duties and Obligation Department did not accept our contribution because they said they already had enough donations, he said. Instead, he plans to use the last portion to organise a concert featuring unknown underground performers. Saung Oo Hlaing, also known as Song Oo Hlaing, said chose which organisations to help based on whether they really work for social duties and

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Saung Oo Hlaing concert raises K12.6m for charity

(Your Hero) in 1993. Since then he has released 11 more albums and has taken part in several side projects, including producing compilation albums such as 19 hours: 18 minutes and organising the Kha Yee Thwar Nga Youk (The Five Travellers) vocal band. He said that although he has always been interested in social work, he became more involved in charity work after 2007. M a n y d i sa st e rs h a ve struck Myanmar, including Cyclone Nargis [in 2008], which took the lives of nearly 200,000 people, and destroyed property and educational opportunities for many more, Saung Oo Hlaing said. When I see such disasters strike our country one after another, I feel like Im being irresponsible if I dont do anything for the people. So I started lending a helping hand by supporting social work was much as possible, he said. Audience member Daw Myint Myint Aye said at the February 17 concert that she attended the event to contribute to the donor fund. Ive seen Song Oo Hlaing make donations to social organisations in the past, so Ive appreciated his efforts, she said. When I heard he had organised this concert to raise funds I decided to come so I could contribute as well.

Saung Oo Hlaing (left) hands a donation to Kyaw Thu of the Funeral Free Service Society at a ceremony in Yangon on February 22. Pic: Boothee obligations. I dont want to make donations that will earn me special recognition or give me a special title. I believe donations are most valuable when theyre made without expecting anything in return. And we should dare to highlight those issues that should be highlighted, he said. He described the February 17 concert as a success not because of his performance or popularity as a singer, but because of the money raised to benefit worthy social organisations. Saung Oo Hlaing first gained fame as a music composer in the early 1990s, and garnered additional public attention with the release of his first solo album Min Yeh Thu Ye Kaung

Uni concert gets eightyear jump on anniversary

By Nyein Ei Ei Htwe A CONCERT celebrating the 100th anniversary of Yangon University will be held at the Myanmar Convention Centre on March 3 starting at 6pm, a spokesperson from the Myanmar Psychology Society, which is organising the event, said last week. The concert, intended as a fundraiser for the Myanmar Psychology Society, will be titled Ta Khar Tone Ka Ta Ka Tho (Once Upon a Time at the University). Performers will include Yangon University alumni Maung Maung Gyee, Cho Pyone and Than Hlaing, accompanied by Khine Htoo, Kai Zar, R Zar Ni, May Sweet and May Kha Lar. The bands Emperor, Lazy Club, The Rays and New Wave will also perform. U Kyaw Kyaw from the Myanmar Psychology Society said the concert would be the first event to welcome the 100 th anniversary of the university, which was established in 1920. We believe most students love their university, and such memories stay with them until the day they die. We miss our days as university students, and this has motivated us to hold this memorable concert, U Kyaw Kyaw said. He added that the name of the event comes from the title of a book from author Nwe Jar Thyne, so the organisers requested and received permission to use it for their event. U Kyaw Kyaw said the stage decorations will replicate scenes around the university, including Adipadi Road, Judson Hall, Convocation Hall and the large tree near the latter hall known as Thit Pote Pin. The owners of the U Chit tea shop and Yan Be Luu cold drinks shop at the university have also been invited to set up at the concert, to give guests a taste of collegiate life. Some of the songs performed during the concert will be those written by composer Bo Ga Lay Tint Aung. Ive written many songs that reflect the life and scenes of the university, but its been years since they were popular. It will be great to hear those songs again by the original vocalists as well as by new singers, he said. For more information about the concert, contact 09-7309-6730 or 09-5019500.

Performers call for safety measures

By Zon Pann Pwint A FATAL traffic accident at the beginning of the year involving a lorry carrying members a traditional theatre troupe has highlighted the need for better safety measures to improve the lives of performers, troupe leaders said last week. The lorry, which was carrying a group of performers as well as wooden crates full of musical instruments and other props, overturned on Mindone Road on January 9, killing one troupe member and injuring several others. For decades lorries have been the primary means for theatre troupes to travel around the country from one show to the next, with performers sharing the back of the truck with precariously balanced wooden crates throughout their long journeys. They must sit on piles of wooden boxes that almost touch the roof of lorry, everyone in desperate condition for the gruelling journey, said U Khin Shwe, secretary of Anawathiri dance troupe. At night, they have to catnap on the bumpy boxes. Famous traditional dancer Pho Chit, who founded the Pho Chit theatre troupe, said these unfortunate conditions are the norm in the industry. The performers are hard-up and are thought too little of, said Po Chit, whose cousin was killed in the January 9 accident. For a long time I had considered buying a bus so the performers would not be forced to ride in lorries loaded with wooden boxes for long journeys. My cousins death was a force that finally convinced me to buy a bus at the end of January, he said. But other theatrical troupes are still travelling in lorries. Chan Thar, a leading actor in the 65-member Chan Thar theatre troupe, said he was encouraged by Pho Chits purchase of an express bus for his performers. The theatre industry should use luxury bus for its performers, but many troupes are struggling to survive and cant afford to buy them, he said. Chan Thar added that the deadly accident at the beginning of the year was not unprecedented. When my father Shwe Mann Tin Maung was leading his own troupe, his lorry overturned on Pyay Road, killing comedian U Sa and another troupe member, he said. And a lorry carry my brother Sann Wins troupe overturned in Mawlamyine in Mon State, killing an actress. But few serious accidents have occurred since then. Chan Thar suggested that theatre troupes arrange to pay for express buses in instalments, so they can more easily afford to buy them. And performers should travel separately from the truckloads of equipment in wooden crates, for their comfort and safety, he said. U Kh i n S h w e a g re e d t h a t t h e performers and boxes should travel separately, adding that skilful drivers and hardy vehicles were also needed to safely negotiate mountain tracks and rough terrain. Five years ago I went along with U Maung Maungs royal drum troupe. Hordes of performers crowded into the lorry, which was also filled with piles of boxes, he said. The performers got extremely tired. No sooner had they finished one show than they had to move to a different venue. They had to nap uncomfortably in the truck. In the past there have been many accidents that most people never heard of, he said. The leading actors were not involved in most of these incidents because they rode in separate cars. U Khin Shwe said that formerly, wise organisers even arranged camp beds for their troupe members. This showed the compassion of organisers, but today performers have to lie on mats on the ground, he said. He added that while lighting, sound and sets for theatre shows have all improved in recent years, the quality of performers lives had not gotten any better. The organisers should be sympathetic about the discomfort of the performers. In theatre, such accidents are not unusual, he said. Most theatres troupes consist of at least 35 members, including dancers, musicians and stagehands, he added.

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Khin May Kyi artwork on exhibit

By Nyein Ei Ei Htwe AN exhibition of paintings by Dr Khin May Kyi will be held at the Myanmar Tr a d i t i o n a l A r t i s t s a n d Artisans Organisation (Central) in the East Wing of Bogyoke Market from March 8 to 13. The show will include more than 60 watercolour and oil paintings made by the artist since 2009. I will also include some of my ink paintings, at the request of my friends and colleagues. They wanted me to exhibit these separately but they take a lot of time, which I cant spare at the moment, Dr Khin May Kyi said. Many of the paintings are inspired by her travels to Shan State, Bagan and Singapore during the past two years.

Little people get big acting roles

By Roger Catlin FOR better or worse, little people have long been associated with show business. Possibly because of their natural ability to attract curiosity, theyve been cast in circuses and films over the years, with stars ranging from General Tom Thumb of P T Barnum days to the large cast of little people in The Wizard of Oz. Little people have been shirking the term Munchkin ever since, just as theyve been trying to leave behind the word midget, now considered an offensive term for what is more acceptably called dwarf, little person or person of restrictive growth. After a spike in the 1990s when little-people stars included Verne Troyers Mini-Me, Kid Rock sidekick Joe C and the cast of a one-season Fox reality dating show called The Littlest Groom, dwarfs are proliferating once more in pop culture. Reality series such as Little People, Big World, The Little Couple and Pit Boss purport to show the real lives of little people on cable TV. But the coming months will bring two sets of seven dwarfs to the big screen Mirror Mirror, with Julia Roberts, on March 30 and Snow White and the Huntsman, with Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, on June 1, with actors from Ian McShane to Bob Hoskins, shrunk by special effects to play dwarfs. And one of the contestants on Survivor: One World, which began earlier this month, is a little person, Leif Manson, 27, a phlebotomist from San Diego, picking up the reality competition traditions of Charla Faddoul, featured on two seasons of The Amazing Race. I kind of knew going into the show there was a lot of my shoulders; I had to prove to all these people that I can be here, and I will be here, Manson said in a phone interview. I really did have to show them that I was strong enough to be there. And thats what really mattered the most to them. Chelsea Handler, who employs one little person, Chuy Bravo, as sidekick and frequent butt of her jokes on her weeknight talk show on E!, Chelsea Lately, also cast another little person as one of the bar employees in her new NBC sitcom based on her earlier years, Are You There, Chelsea? Asked about her affection for little people earlier this month by Rosie ODonnell (who admitted her own mild fear or anxiety around little people) Handler said: I love little people I want to tackle them. T h e r e s n o t a l o t o f j o b

Lifes Too Short, showing on HBO, is the latest take on the characters behind the scenes in Hollywood from Ricky Gervais (right) and Stephen Merchant (left). At centre is real-life actor Warwick Davis, whose character describes himself as the go-to dwarf in the acting community. Pic: HBO opportunities for those kinds of people, Handler added. They need help. Mark Povinelli, who got the bar employee role on Are You There, Chelsea? explained it this way: Chelsea likes to collect things. One of the things she decided she likes to collect is little people or the idea of different people around her. The positive aspect of it is that theres a different point of view coming from a little person. Povinelli says the role is a breakthrough. Theres never been a little person cast as a series regular on a network sitcom before, he says. The great thing about his character, a confident bartenders assistant with a fetish for dating much older women, is that there are jokes about size, but no more than I make in my daily life. Having played in Volpone at the Shakespeare Theatre in Washington, the film version of Water for Elephants and Torvald in the Kennedy Centre production of Mabou Mines Dollhouse in October, Povinelli says, I dont know if I was average height Id be in this business. He said he always knew hed be in show business because I saw when I go out that Im basically on stage anyway everybody looks at me because Im profoundly different physically. I have no control over it. I found when I went on stage I could finally be in control. But there can still be negative aspects or as Manson of Survivor s a y s , T h e r e s t o n s o f m e a n people. When Peter Dinklage won a Golden Globe for his role in HBOs Game of Thrones last month, he took time to single out a British actor with dwarfism, Martin Henderson, who was paralysed in October when a drunk in a pub picked him up and threw him. The specific problems of actors of small stature is the topic of the latest HBO series from Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. L i f e s To o S h o r t f o l l o w s a fictionalised life of real-life actor Warwick Davis, who, he repeats quite often in the series, appeared in Return of the Jedi behind the mask as an Ewok, but was fully seen in another fantasy film that wasnt nearly as widely known, Willow. In Lifes Too Short, Davis describes himself as the go-to dwarf in the acting community. In the show, he runs an agency called Dwarves for Hire, though he always seems to take the best role. Gervais is careful in the series to try to not directly make fun of dwarfs; rather, he takes the comedy another direction, initially showing the humour at how other people react to him. (Davis, in the fakedocumentary style perfected in the original version of The Office, often looks at the camera in disbelief.) A few of the things that happened in the show happened to me, Davis told reporters at the TV critics winter press tour in Pasadena, California, last month. And the things that hadnt happened to me that Ricky and Stephen wrote, I always wonder why they hadnt happened to me. The shows humour is also built on the notion that a little person can be as conceited and self-deluded as anybody else. Gervais argues that its not half an hour of: Isnt it funny that hes so short? Theres a difference between a show that exploits and a show that ridicules exploitation, and were clearly in the second camp. More than 200 different medical conditions cause dwarfism, the most common form of which is achondroplasia, according to the Little People of America, a 55-yearold organisation with 6000 members nationwide. Leah Smith, vice president of public relations for the Little People of America, says the jump in little people on TV may have something to do with Dinklages success on HBO. Its cyclical, Smith says. Well see a whole lot, then not for a little while. I dont know what it is that motivates that. But generally having people see little people in movies and TV is positive. It shows people were really like everyone else, she says. Its when were not seen and heard that it creates more of a stereotype. The Washington Post

the I paint of the lifestyles locals together with the landscape.

I paint the lifestyles of the locals together with the landscape, in the realist style, she said, adding that her favourite piece in the show was a big painting titled Lwan Maw Phwe Da Ma Yan Gyee (Damayan Gyee Pagoda). I used oil paint to render an evening scene. When I look at it, I get a sense of yearning for feeling cool in the deep shade, she said. The show is Dr Khin May Kyis second solo exhibition. Her first was held in 2010, although she has been involved in several group exhibitions since 2005. My work has improved since my first solo show, and those who know my paintings will be able to see the difference, she said. The paintings will be for sale at prices ranging from K20,000 to K10 million.

Artist Christo delays project to wrap Arkansas River in silver

LOS ANGELES Christo, the artist famous for wrapping world landmarks, announced last week he is postponing for a year his next project, suspending silvery fabric over a river in the western United States. Over the River will see eight sections of the Arkansas River covered with a total of 9.5 kilometres (5.9 miles) of billowing aluminised panels that will change shade over the course of each day. In theory it was due to be on show between Salida and Carson City in Colorado in August 2014, but after various scheduling changes, the artist has decided to delay it until August 2015. Christo understands that this news may be disappointing to thousands of local residents and many thousands of art enthusiasts around the world who are looking forward to experiencing Over The River, he said in a statement. Nonetheless, this change will result in a better informed public and an improved installation schedule. Formal approval for the ambitious undertaking was given last November by the Bureau of Land Management, the federal agency within the Department of the Interior that administers public lands in the United States. Seen from above, the panels to be hung 2 to 8 metres (6.5 to 26 feet) above the river will resemble waves at sea, the Bulgarian-born artist said. Its a fabric with many folds, but not always horizontal because one river bank can be higher than another, he said, adding that from below, kayakers will get a sense of clouds and rolling mountains. Christo, 76, started conceptualising Over the River in 1992 with his wife and collaborator Jeanne-Claude, who died in 2009. Together they had undertaken 22 works of environmental art including the wrapping in fabric of such international landmarks as the Pont-Neuf in Paris and the Bundestag in Berlin. AFP

U Yi Sein essays published

By Zon Pann Pwint A BOOK of articles about Myanmar-China relations and the history of the pre-Bagan Pyu people, written by the late historian U Yi Sein and compiled U Thaw Kaung, has been published. The book, titled The Selected Writings of U Yi Sein, includes seven articles in English and 28 in Myanmar language, written by U Yi Sein, who was born in Pyapon, Ayeyarwady Region, but passed away in Taipei in 2005. The articles cover the history of Myanmar from the 1st to the 20th centuries CE, focusing on Myanmars relations with China as well as Chinese records of the Pyu people. U Yi Sein, whose Chinese name was Mr Chen Yi-sein, wrote articles on MyanmarChina relations in the Chinese language for Yangon Chinatown newspapers at the age of 30, said U Thaw Kaung, a retired librarian and historian. He said U Yi Seins extensive knowledge of China, as well as his fluency in Chinese languages, resulted in his appointment as a research assistance at the Burma Historical Commission, where he translated Chinese writings on Myanmar. When U Yi Sein was 17, he was recruited to work as an interpreter at the construction site of the Ledo Road, which linked Assam, India, to Yunnan, China, U Thaw Kaung said, adding: He often related how he worked as an interpreter in the chilly mountainous districts in Kachin State and Yunnan Province. At that time, an interpreter who could speak English, Myanmar and Chinese was required for the army officers and engineers. U Thaw Kaung said U Yi Sein was self-educated on Myanmar and Chinese history. He primarily studied Chinese historical sources on Myanmar and he made monumental contributions to the Myanmar Historical Commission, he said. The book, which was published in December, is available at bookstores in Yangon for K7000.

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Novelists open new chapter for booming China film industry

By Mathew Scott HONG KONG Acclaimed Chinese novelist Geling Yan has become accustomed to reaching a wide audience both at home and abroad. But nothing could have prepared her for the attention she has received since film director Zhang Yimou picked up one of her novels and turned it into The Flowers of War, Chinas biggest box office smash of the past 12 months. To see my work made into such a grand piece of cinema has made me very happy, it has been quite a shock, said Yan of the production, adapted from her novel The 13 Women of Nanjing. Im flattered, of course, and it will introduce my written work to a whole new audience. Any novelist in the world would love that. A s C h i n a s r a p i d l y expanding film industry continues to break new ground and set new records filmmakers are increasingly looking to literary adaptations for their inspiration. The Chinese film industry collected an estimated 13.1 billion yuan (US$2.07 billion) in 2011 up 29 percent and around 2500 more cinema screens are expected to be unveiled across the country this year. With the governmentenforced quota of just 20 international films allowed in for screening each year still in place, its an industry in need of productions and ideas. Plenty of published authors are ready to share them. Z h a n g s p r o d u c t i o n starred Oscar-winning American actor Christian Bale and collected around $90 million from the Chinese box office while picking up a nomination for best foreign language film at the prestigious Golden Globes in the United States. While a much sought-after Oscars nomination was not forthcoming despite the film being put forward as Chinas official entry for those awards, Flowers is up for six of the Asian Film Awards, to be announced on March 19, including best film and best director. For Yan, the success could not have come at a better time. Any film or television series based on your work is good because in the literary field, the readership everywhere is shrinking, says Yan, who helped write the screenplay for The Flowers of War and made her name in the literary world through novels such as The Lost Daughter of Happiness. In China, like in the United States, what you might call serious literature is going downhill but movies being adapted will give these works a wider audience, she says. It doesnt really matter how they adapt my work, or what the directors vision of my work is, making it into a film simply means for me that more people will then read the original material. So the more this can happen, the happier I will be. Ya n s n o v e l w a s s e t around the infamous Rape of Nanking (Nanjing) by Japanese forces in 1937. She believes part of the attraction for a filmmaker such as Zhang was the fact that the setting of her tale was historical. It is easier to get these sorts of films made because they dont touch on contemporary subjects and so dont have any problems with censorship, Yan explains. According to Marysia Juszczakiewicz, founder of the Hong Kong-based Peony Literary Agency, the next step is to find work that appeals both inside and outside China. Juszczakiewiczs company has sold book rights to Yans novel into the US, the UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, South Korea, Vietnam and Thailand following the success of the film adaptation. It is not easy to find stories that will work in film simultaneously in the West and East, a story that would not be censored in China but one that also has mass appeal in the West, she says. It is still early days for the film industry. But I think The Flowers of War is the beginning of such ventures and there will be many more to come. It is another wonderful way of bridging the gap between East and West. Film director Pang Hocheung has a unique take on the topic, having begun his creative career as a writer of the successful novel Fulltime Killer before moving on to direct films such as the award-winning Isabella (2006). He agrees that the weight of demand from the Chinese film industry for stories is opening up unprecedented opportunities for writers to see their work adapted for the screen, a process he believes will be aided

Second Wathann Filmfest announced

By Yadana Htun ORGANISERS of the Wathann Filmfest have called for e n t ri e s for t h e se c on d annual event, scheduled for September. Although copies of the films for the competition films will be accepted only from June 10 to 30, festival director Thu Thu Shein told The Myanmar Times via email that applications can already be downloaded from the festival website (www. wathannfilmfest.net). Like the previous event, held in September 2011, awards will be given in three categories Best Short Film, Best Documentary and New Vision with each winner receiving K300,000 and a trophy. The festival will also include an expanded program of film workshops and seminars. Besides the screening of the finalists works and international films, this year we will show the films of local female directors and there will be a discussion section about these films, Thu Thu Shein said. We will also include a Memory program during which we will screen old Myanmar films, she said. Thu Thu Shein traveled to the Berlin Film Festival earlier this month to get ideas about how to promote film in Myanmar. I went to Berlin to observe how we can improve our festival and connect with the international film community. Of course, I got some new ideas for this years festival, she said. She said that for this years Wathann Filmfest she expected to see an increase in the quality, rather than the quantity, of the entries. Were glad to find a growing interest in making short films after our first festival, and we welcome the addition of more events like the Art of Freedom Film Festival, she said. As short films become the new stepping stone of the countrys movie industry, they need to be stronger. She added that there are some changes to the rules and regulations for this year. Details can be seen on our website. We also want to remind the participants to use their own background music and sound for their films [to avoid copyright infringement]. Then we will be able to send their films to international film festivals if we get the chance, Thu Thu Shein said. After last years competition, Japanese art curator Keiko Sei, one of the judges for the competition, suggested that filmmakers should create work that will prompt the audience to think for themselves. My suggestion to filmmakers and video makers is to concentrate on letting the audience open up their imagination. I think thats the most important thing, she said.

Chinese novelist Geling Yan poses in Beijing on February 12. Pic: AFP by a loosening of Chinas censorship. You cant deny that the mass audience still prefers big, historical epics, and they are attracted by the vast scenes and the engulfing atmosphere, says Pang, saying however that audiences horizons are broadening. On top of that, the censorship boards have slowly started to loosen up, so I think this can be slowly changed, only the change will take a long time. Hong Kong-based author Duncan Jepson, who has produced the award-winning feature film Rice Rhapsody (2004) and was also involved in making documentary Hanging Coffins (2005) has recently had his All the Flowers in Shanghai published. The novel, which traces the story of a Chinese woman forced into an arranged marriage in 1940s Shanghai, seems tailor-made for a big-screen adaptation and the writer readily admits that this is increasingly becoming a consideration for those who write in and about China. I would be very interested to see someone take a crack at it, says Jepson. It is always interesting, bad or good, to see how one person interprets anothers work, particularly, in the case of book to film, from a visual and narrative perspective. For her part Yan said she was delighted by the screen adaptation of her novel and hopes there will be more such projects to come. There is lots of hot money in China to make movies and television because the domestic market is so very big, she says. There is so much money to be made and so much money around to make movies. It is a way for the world to see Chinas creative work and a way for our work as writers to reach out to the world. AFP

Alcohol in movies linked to child boozing

PARIS Stars who knock back whisky, wine or beer in a movie are a potent force in prompting youngsters to experiment with alcohol or bingedrink, a large US study published on February 21 suggests. Major exposure to scenes of alcohol consumption in movies is a bigger risk for teen drinking than having parents who drink or if booze is easily available at home, it says. Unprecedented in its scope, the probe entailed a confidential telephone survey of more than 6500 randomly selected Americans aged 10 to 14 years, who were then interviewed three more times over the next two years. The youngsters were surveyed on what big movies they had seen, and whether they drank alcohol or owned merchandise with a liquor brand on it, and were also asked questions about their personality, school and home life. The 50-movie list used in the interview was drawn randomly from 500 current or recent boxoffice hits plus another 32 films that had grossed at least US$15 million when the first survey was carried out. The researchers then measured the amount of exposure to alcohol in movies, determined by a characters actual or implied consumption of a drink or purchase of it. The youngsters, they found, had typically notched up a total of four and half hours of such exposure. Many had seen a total of more than eight hours. During the two-year course of the study, the tally of respondents who said they had started to drink alcohol rose from 11 to 25 percent. The proportion who began binge drinking, defined as five or more drinks in a row, tripled from 4 to 13pc. Out of 20 risk factors for these two activities, the biggest by far was high use of alcohol among the youngsters peers. But high movie alcohol exposure ranked the third biggest risk for the onset of drinking, and fourth in terms of progression to binge drinking. It was a far greater risk than having dud parents or parents who drank, having lots of pocket money, being a rebellious character or having drink available at home. Movie alcohol exposure accounted for 28pc of the alcohol onset and 20pc of the binge drinking transitions, says the paper. After confounding factors were taken into account, teens who watched the most movies featuring alcohol were twice as likely to start drinking as those who watched the least. They were also 63pc likelier to progress to binge-boozing. Why is this so? Alcohol use in movies is typically modelled in positive situations, without negative effects, and often shown with alcohol brands, which consolidates both the adolescents identify as a drink and brand allegiance, the study suggests. Acquisition of alcohol-branded merchandise, an article of clothing with an alcohol brand on it, furthers this process. The investigation is published in an online journal, BMJ Open. Its authors, led by James Sargent, a professor at the Dartmouth Medical School in New Hampshire, say it is time to consider restrictions. The authors note that 61pc of Hollywood movies use product placement of some kind. Producers cannot use tobacco in placements yet face no restrictions on alcohol. Health watchdogs should be concerned, and not just in the United States, they warn. More than half of Hollywoods revenues come from overseas distribution, mainly in Europe, Japan, Canada, Australia, Brazil and South Korea. Like influenza, images in Hollywood movies begin in one region of the world then spread globally, where they may affect drinking behaviours among adolescents everywhere they are distributed. AFP

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Follow Me and Secret Cosmetics Launch

The Scream going up for auction in NY

NEW YORK The only privately owned version of Edvard Munchs masterpiece The Scream will go on the block at Sothebys in New York in May, valued at more than US$80 million, the auction house said last week. The iconic work is one of the most instantly recognisable images in both art history and popular culture, perhaps second only to the Mona Lisa, Sothebys said. Munch created four versions of The Scream between 1893 and 1944, each showing a figure holding its head and mouth ajar in a moment of existential anguish set against a vividly coloured landscape. The work to be auctioned May 2 was created in 1895 in pastel on board. The only Scream in private hands, it was part of a collection left by shipping dynasty scion Thomas Olsen, a friend and supporter of Munchs, Sothebys said. The others are owned by the Munch Museum in Oslo and the National Gallery of Norway. Simon Shaw, head of Sothebys Modern Art and Impressionism Department, said the works value could exceed $80 million, given its rarity and what other masterpieces have brought in recent auctions. AFP

Dr Tin Tun Oo

Daw Ni Ni

Patricia

Bollywood star Saif Ali Khan gets bail in assault case

MUMBAI Leading Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan surrendered to police after being accused of breaking a mans nose in an brawl at a luxury hotel restaurant in Mumbai, police said last week. The star was released on bail after being questioned about the incident at Colaba police station. The actor was charged with voluntarily causing severe hurt. Khan ran into trouble after a South African businessman registered a case with the police, complaining that he was pushed and punched in the face by the actor at the Taj Mahal Palace hotels Wasabi Japanese restaurant. Khan, 41, was dining with his girlfriend, actress Kareena Kapoor, and friends on February 21 when he allegedly clashed with Iqbal Sharma. Police said Sharma said he was hit on the nose after a heated argument with Saif. Saif and his friends were loud and raucous. We only asked the hotel authorities to get them to quieten down, Sharma told NDTV television channel. Sharma claimed the actor then told him: Do you know who I am? If you want peace, go to a library. This led to an argument, after which Sharma was allegedly pushed and punched in the face, leading to a broken nose. The actor however claimed one of his friend was assaulted which led to the fight. AFP

Gusto Higher Education Institute New Diploma Program Launch

U Min Oo

U Nyein Oo

U Ye Yint Win

Paramount Pictures sues Puzo estate over Godfather sequels

NEW YORK Paramount Pictures is suing Anthony Puzo, the son and executor of the estate of author Mario Puzo, to prevent the publication of a new sequel novel to The Godfather. Paramount, which says it bought the copyright to Puzos novel in 1969, is trying protect the integrity and reputation of The Godfather trilogy, according to a complaint earlier this month in federal court in Manhattan. Paramount claimed that, after Puzos death in 1999, the company agreed to allow Bertelsmanns Random House unit to publish a single Godfather sequel, The Godfather Returns, in 2004. The estate published another novel, The Godfathers Revenge, in 2006 without Paramounts approval, according to the complaint. Far from properly honouring the legacy of The Godfather, the unauthorised The Godfathers Revenge tarnished, and in the process, also misled consumers into believing that The Godfathers Revenge was authorised by Paramount, Paramount, a unit of New York-based Viacom, said in the complaint. Paramount is seeking damages and an order barring the Puzo estate from publishing the third sequel novel, The Family Corleone, this year. The Washington Post

Gusto Students

YKKO Kyae-Oh New Branch Opening

U Kyaw Kyaw Naing, U Nyan Linn and U Ye Win Tun

U San Ni Aung Khin and attendees

Garnier Lucky Draw

Award organisers apologise for cutting off Adele

LONDON The Brit Awards apologised last week for cutting off Adeles speech as she accepted the main prize of the ceremony, a move that prompted the British singer to raise her middle finger at the crowd. Adele said the gesture was not aimed at her fans but was an indication of her frustration at the suits who ran Britains top music awards, held at Londons O2 Arena. The 23-year-olds success at the Brits capped an incredible year, which has seen her second album 21 top the charts around the world and saw her win six Grammys at Los Angeles earlier in the month. But as she stood on stage on February 21 to collect her Brit Award for best album, having receiving the best British female solo award earlier in the night, she barely had time for a few thank-yous before she was cut off. The presenter, comic actor James Corden, apologised for stepping in, explaining that Blur were waiting to play a set, but Adele lifted her middle finger to the crowd. We regret this happened and we send our deepest apologies to Adele that her big moment was cut short due to the live show over running, the organisers said in a statement after the event. Speaking to reporters backstage, the singer explained: I flipped the finger but it wasnt to my fans. Im sorry if I offended anyone but it was the suits that offended me. AFP

Ms Jane Soon, Dr Khin May Linn and colleagues

Ma Theingi and Ma Khin Thandar Htay

Kaung Khant

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soCialite
February 27 - March 4, 2012
SOCIALITE started her week at the opening ceremony of Fabulous Connection fashion shop on Inya Road on February 14. She continued on to the Princess Fashion and Design Centre opening in Kyauk Myaung township, War War Aungs Academy Reception at M3 Food Centre and the Happy Valentines Contest at Sein Gay Har (Hleden Centre). The next day she attended the new products launch and demonstration event by Follow Me and Secret cosmetics at Traders Hotel. On February 18, Socialite attended the introduction ceremony for a new diploma program by Gusto Higher Education Institute at Park Royal Hotel, and then popped in at the lucky draw for Garnier cosmetics at Inya 1 restaurant. Socialite capped off her week at the wedding reception for her favourite singer and actress, Thazin, and groom Ko Thet Naing Aung Zay Ya at Sedona Hotel on February 19.

MyanMar tiMes
War War Aung Academy Reception

A Yine, Aung Khine, Wai Lu Kyaw, War War Aung and Ye Aung

Ko Thet Naing Aung Zay Ya and Thazin Wedding Reception

War War Aung and Takatho Gwon Pone

Daw Thuzar Brides

Khin Than Nwe and Khin Moh Moh Aye

Dane Daung and Khin Hlaing

Princess Fashion and Design Opening

Eaindra Kyaw Zin R Zar Ni and One Moh Moh Myint Aung Rebecca Win May Gabyar Khin Lay Nwe

Alnie and Ma Pont Pont

Noe Noe, Alnie and Ei

Fabulous Connection Fashion Shop Opening

Ma Nay Chi and Ma Nanda

May Thinzar Oo

Staff members

Yin Thu Swe

Happy Valentine Contest

Ma Chaw and guests

Contestants

Contestants

travel
February 27 - March 4, 2012
the

34
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Borneos orangutans wild but civil

By Hugh Biggar THE swampy heat swaddles everything like a wet diaper. The coffee-coloured Sekonyer River looks tempting to cool off in, but then there are the crocodiles and the water snakes. Somewhere out there, too, are rumours of headhunters and not the business kind. Instead, my family and I decide to kick back and let the orangutans in Borneos Tanjung Puting National Park come to us. The park is one of the best places in the world to see the endangered orangutan in the wild. With South Asias tropical forests rapidly disappearing, particularly in Borneo, its also one the of only places where you can still see the great apes in their natural habitat. To reach the park, we fly to Indonesias Central Kalimantan province from Jakarta, then take an old African Queen-style wooden boat from the port of Kumai on the Java Sea. We plop ourselves in deck chairs as the boat slowly putt-putts away from Kumais fishing shacks, cargo sheds and bright blue mosque, wheezes past freighters and canoes, and finally enters a channel leading to the jungle. Here, an unexpected billboard featuring a large picture of a big-eyed orangutan announces the entrance to the park. Other than in the picture, though, the orangutans are initially hard to spot. Although the rainforest presses close on both sides of the boat, the apes stay hidden. Our guide helpfully instructs us to look for swaying branches up in the canopy and for nests made of sticks: This is because orangutans are treedwellers, in fact the largest tree-dwelling mammals in the world. We also learn to look in front of the boat, rather than to the side, and soon we spot moms with babies firmly attached swinging from tree branch to tree branch or munching contentedly on fruit. At ground level, I see solitary males, with their telltale large, leathery cheek pads, along the reedy banks. Most are drinking from the river or scavenging for the apes know that we are coming, and the trees rustle with macaques and gibbons. Nearby, a wild boar roots in the grass. A mile or so into the rainforest, we arrive at the station, where orangutan moms and babies are sitting calmly on a wooden platform. Two other visitors occupy nearby benches, watching as the orangutans feast on piles of blackish bananas and milk. Less social apes slide down from the trees and grab a handful of fruit before heading back up into the canopy. We join the other visitors on the benches, fan ourselves with leaves and dive out of the way when a large male orangutan rumbles down the jungle path and swings up over the benches and onto the platform. For these apes at least, life seems good, despite the greater troubles facing the species. For certain other apes namely us the heat of the midday sun makes us wonder how these thickly furred creatures keep cool. Were barely hanging in there as the humidity rises, and after half an hour, drooping, we reluctantly head back to the camp. I also pause to remove a leech from my ankle and to inspect a plant slowly devouring an insect. At Camp Leakey, we stop briefly to cool off on wooden benches in the shade and to visit a small museum in an old bungalow that features faded photos of camp apes, including their names and lineages, and a few natural history displays. I stretch my arms out at one exhibit and realize that I dont come close to the typical male orangutan wingspan of eight feet. Perhaps an NBA team should send out a scout. Outside the bungalow, I take a seat in the shade and douse myself with water from my bottle. Siswi sidles up with a sly look on her face. Still ahead this afternoon are a visit to a fishing village of the local Dayak people, just past an outlaw midriver gold-mining operation, where men turn drills by pedalling stationary bikes, and then a side trip into the swamps in canoes low enough in the dark water to give us an unnerving crocodiles-eye view of the world. Tomorrow, we head back to Kumai and then to Jakarta. But for now, its just me and Siswi in the shade. She seems to have a better idea for my water bottle and holds out her hand for it. I forget about the heat, the bugs and the leeches. Siswi and I look each other in the eye, and suddenly its not clear which of us is giving the other something to take home. The Washington Post

AIRLINE OFFICES
Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)

56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Air Asia (FD) 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Ground Flr, Parkroyal Hotel, Yangon. Tel: 251 885, 251 886.

Air China (CA)

Building (2), corner of Pyay Rd and Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Hotel Yangon, 8 miles, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 666112, 655882.

Bangkok Airways (PG)

Yangon. Tel: 255122, 255 265, Fax: 255119

#0305, 3rd Fl, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp,

Air India

75, Shwe Bon Thar St, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 253597~98, 254758. Fax: 248175

Myanmar Airways International(8M)

Tanjung Puting National Park in Borneo provides a haven for endangered orangutans. Pic: The Washington Post food. Scientists have found that some of the parks apes use sticks to spear fish, but the orangutans near us are stickless. I spot one big male squatting in the mud, oblivious to the boat but riveted by a stray soda can. Slowly, he turns the can end over end, trying to divine its shiny purpose. Then, finding the top, he pops open the tab and, to his considerable surprise, sprays himself in the face. Those opposable thumbs can be a mixed blessing, I suppose. Farther along, less shy orangutans, both moms with babies and solitary males, watch the boat from branches close to the shore. Our guide calls to the animals, whistling and making kissing sounds. The orangutans remain silent but cautiously swing closer to the boat. A few venture to waterside branches, although the park discourages visitors from getting too close for safety and health reasons. I tentatively hold out a banana to one mom and, standing face to face with her, suddenly feel an easy kinship with the great ape. Not surprising, since they share 97 percent of our DNA. Our guide tells us that the word orangutan derives from a Malay word meaning forest man. Gibbons, macaques and big-bellied, big-nosed proboscis monkeys also wait to join in on the banana mother lode and peer curiously from nearby trees. Somewhere in the forest, too, are clouded leopards, sun bears and pygmy elephants, but these animals are too savvy to let us see them, and for good reason. Humans havent been so kind to the rainforest and its denizens in recent decades. Today, orangutans are squeezed into diminishing rainforests in Sumatra and Borneo, an island that Indonesia shares with Malaysia and Brunei. The global population is roughly 55,000, down from about 300,000 a century ago, when the apes lived throughout the swampy jungles of Southeast Asia, including in Southern China. In Borneo, wildfires, logging and palm oil plantations have helped wipe out most of the orangutans natural habitat. Indonesia, which boasts the most tropical forests in the world after Brazil, continues to lose millions of forest acres each year, thanks to the rising popularity of palm oil as a cooking oil and biofuel. The forests are burned and the peat swamps drained, and palm trees planted instead. Big palm oil plantations surround Tanjung Puting, trapping the orangutans here and preventing them from travelling to other nearby rainforests and swamps. But the park is undeniably a sanctuary for those orangutans left in Borneo and for those being reintroduced into the wild, thanks especially to the work of Birute Mary Galdikas. A protege of anthropologist Louis Leakey, Galdikas arrived at the park 40 years ago and never left. She has established the conservation organisation Orangutan Foundation International and dedicated her life to studying and helping orangutans such as Siswi. We meet Siswi after stopping at the park headquarters, Camp Leakey, where we stretch our legs and breathe in the fresh air after spending the night on a deck heavy with mosquitoes and the smell of kerosene, diesel, bug spray and the onboard toilet. We follow a bamboo boardwalk over a peat swamp, past a linebackersize male orangutan in the grass who eyes us warily, and into the heart of the camp. Here, among a cluster of small bungalows, smack in the middle of the trail, the camp grandmother lies on her back, a lazy grin on her face, holding her feet over her head with her hands in what could be a yoga position upward-facing primate, perhaps. Siswi is the resident elder, mascot and clown. In her late 30s, she has three grandchildren, about right for an animal that gives birth every eight to 15 years a long gap between offspring that adds to orangutans vulnerability to extinction. We sidestep Siswi, who doesnt budge, and continue down the trail toward the feeding station in the jungle. Our guide calls ahead with his whistles and kisses to let

08-02, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Ygn. Tel : 255260, Fax: 255305

Malaysia Airlines (MH)

335/357, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 387648, 241007 ext : 120, 121, 122 Fax : 241124 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, 2nd Floor, Sakura Tower, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 255 287~9 , Fax: 255 290

Silk Air(MI)

Thai Airways (TG)

#11-01, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Ygn. Tel : 255499 Fax : 255490

Vietnam Airlines (VN)

#1702, Sakura Tower 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon. Fax 255086. Tel 255066/ 255088/ 255068.

Domestic Airlines
Yangon Airways(YH)

166, MMB Tower, Level 5, Upper Pansodan Rd, Mingalar Taungnyunt Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (+95-1) 383 100, 383 107, 700 264, Fax: 652 533.

Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)

56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102

AIR KBZ (K7)

33-49,Corner of Bank Street & Maha Bandoola Garden Street, Kyauktada Tsp,Yangon, Myanmar Tel: 372977~80, 533030~39 (Airport) Fax: 372983

Air Mandalay (6T)

146, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon Tel : 501520, 525488 (Head Office) 720309, 652753, 652754 (Airport Office), Fax: 525 937

Asian Wings (AW)

No.34(A-1), Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Township,Yangon.Myanmar. Tel: 951 516654, 532253, 09-73135991~3.Fax: 951 532333

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February 27 - March 4, 2012

MyanMar tiMes

DOMESTIC FLIGHT SCHEDULES

DAYS
FRI FRI MON

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SCHEDULES

DAYS
SUN

Flight
K7 244 K7 245 AW 891 6T 405 6T 401 W9 011 6T 801 AW 761 6T 451 K7 824 6T 501 K7 228 YH 909 6T 405 W9 251 6T 401 YH 729 6T 451 K7 622 AW 791 6T 501 6T 405 AW 891 6T 401 6T 331 6T 801 YH 737 K7 824 W9 261 YH 731 6T 501 K7 228 YH 909 AW 891 6T 405 AW 201 6T 401 W9 255 6T 331 YH 729 K7 622 K7 226 6T 501 YH 731 AW 891 6T 405 W9 251 6T 401 YH 917 6T 331 AW 751 K7 824 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 W9 271 6T 403 YH 909 6T 401 AW 601 6T 801 YH 729 K7 622 6T 501 AW 891 YH 909 AW 891 6T 405 6T 401 W9 255 6T 801 AW 751 K7 622 6T 501 YH 634 AW 892 6T 406 6T 402 W9 262 6T 802 W9 021 AW 762 YH 728 6T 502 K7 825 W9 009 6T 406 6T 402 YH 910 W9 011 K7 229 YH 812 W9 251 W9 150 AW 762 YH 730 6T 502

Dep Arr
13:00 15:50 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:30 08:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:00 10:45 11:00 12:00 13:30 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 10:30 12:00 12:30 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 11:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:00 10:30 10:30 12:00 15:00 16:15 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 08:00 11:00 12:00 15:00 08:35 08:35 08:40 08:55 10:50 13:20 14:10 16:25 16:30 17:20 17:50 08:30 08:40 08:55 09:25 09:25 11:15 13:25 13:35 16:20 16:25 17:20 17:20 15:30 16:50 08:20 08:20 08:35 08:30 09:55 12:55 12:55 13:25 17:00 07:25 07:55 08:20 07:55 08:35 12:40 12:55 13:25 16:25 17:00 08:20 08:20 08:35 08:25 12:10 13:10 13:25 07:55 17:10 17:00 07:25 07:55 08:20 08:20 07:55 08:35 08:55 08:25 13:30 13:25 13:55 17:00 17:10 08:20 08:20 07:55 08:35 08:50 08:25 12:25 12:25 14:25 17:00 17:10 07:25 07:40 07:55 08:35 08:25 12:35 13:30 13:25 17:00 08:20 08:30 08:20 08:20 08:35 08:55 09:25 12:25 13:25 17:00 10:00 10:30 10:40 10:55 12:15 14:45 15:10 17:50 17:55 19:25 19:15 09:30 10:40 10:55 10:50 11:10 12:40 14:50 15:00 17:45 17:50 18:45 19:25

DAYS
WED

Flight
W9 009 AW 892 6T 406 6T 332 6T 402 W9 021 6T 802 YH 738 K7 825 6T 502 W9 009 AW 892 6T 406 6T 332 6T 402 YH 812 W9 021 K7 229 AW 762 YH 730 6T 502 W9 009 AW 892 6T 406 6T 332 YH 918 6T 402 AW 202 W9 251 YH 731 6T 502 W9 232 YH 728 6T 404 AW 892 6T 402 W9 011 W9 262 AW 602 YH 812 6T 802 K7 623 YH 730 6T 502 W9 009 YH 910 AW 892 6T 406 6T 402 W9 011 W9 256 YH 812 6T 802 K7 623 AW 752 YH 738 6T 502 W9 143 AW 891 6T 405 YH 633 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 W9 143 6T 405 AW 891 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 W9 143 6T 405 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 K7 242 6T 451 AW 781 AW 891 6T 405 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 AW 891 6T 405 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 K7 242 AW 891 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 6T 801 W9 143 6T 405 AW 891 YH 909 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917

Dep Arr
08:30 08:35 08:40 08:45 08:55 14:10 15:35 17:10 17:50 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:40 08:45 08:55 13:10 14:10 15:45 16:25 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:40 08:45 08:50 08:55 11:00 13:35 17:10 17:20 17:35 17:45 08:00 08:35 08:55 09:25 10:50 12:20 13:10 16:00 16:55 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:35 08:40 08:55 09:25 11:20 13:10 13:30 16:55 17:10 17:10 17:20 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 12:30 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 10:30 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 09:30 10:30 10:40 10:10 10:55 15:10 17:00 18:35 19:15 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:40 10:10 10:55 14:35 15:10 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:40 10:10 10:45 10:55 12:25 15:00 19:25 19:25 19:00 19:10 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:10 12:15 13:45 14:35 17:25 18:20 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:00 10:30 10:40 10:55 11:10 12:45 14:35 14:55 18:20 18:35 18:35 19:25 07:20 07:35 07:35 07:50 07:50 07:50 08:05 07:20 07:35 07:35 07:50 07:50 08:05 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:50 08:05 08:20 13:50 17:10 07:35 07:35 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 07:35 07:35 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 08:20 07:35 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 11:50 07:20 07:35 07:35 07:50 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05

DAYS
MON

Flight
K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 AW 792 6T 502 YH 732 K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 6T 404 W9 109 AW 792 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 YH 732 6T 502 W9 255 W9 251 AW 201 W9 255 W9 251 AW 211 W9 255

Dep Arr
08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:25 18:05 18:10 08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 08:45 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:55 18:05 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:30 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 18:45 19:25 19:30 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 19:15 19:25 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 10:05 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 19:15 19:25 09:25 09:25 09:20 09:25 09:25 08:50 09:25

Flight
W9 115 YH 811 K7 826 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 YH 737 W9 143 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 K7 823 W9 116 W9 143 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 6T 406 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 AW 892 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 K7 823 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 6T 452 W9 116 YH 738 6T 611 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 607 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 607 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 612 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 608 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 608 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 612 6T 707 AW 301 6T 707 K7 317 K7 317 AW 301 AW 301 6T 707 K7 317 AW 301 6T 708 6T 708 K7 318 AW 302 AW 302 K7 318 6T 708 K7 318 AW 302

Dep Arr
11:00 11:00 12:30 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 09:05 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 15:15 16:45 09:05 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:30 09:35 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:20 09:35 09:45 10:00 15:15 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 14:55 16:45 17:20 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:00 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 13:15 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 07:30 07:00 11:15 12:30 12:30 12:45 07:00 11:15 12:30 12:45 11:55 15:40 16:40 17:15 11:30 16:40 15:40 16:40 17:15 12:10 12:25 13:45 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:25 10:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 16:30 17:55 10:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:40 10:45 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:30 10:45 10:55 11:15 16:30 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 17:05 17:55 18:35 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 13:00 14:45 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 14:20 16:45 14:20 16:45 14:40 16:45 14:20 16:45 14:55 16:45 14:20 16:45 14:20 09:30 09:05 13:15 14:00 14:00 14:50 09:05 13:15 14:00 14:50 13:55 17:40 18:10 19:20 13:35 18:10 17:40 18:10 19:20

Flight
MON FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 TUE FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306

Dep
08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:40 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40

Arr
10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 13:05 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15

Flight
SAT 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517

Dep
08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40

Arr
12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15

Flight
MON 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 TUE 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332

Dep
07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 16:25 15:00 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:55 14:10 14:20 19:40 07:55 14:10 14:20 19:40 07:55 09:10 14:10 14:20 07:55 14:10 14:20 15:20 19:40 07:55 09:10 14:10 14:20 15:20

Arr
07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 17:10 15:50 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 09:20 15:35 15:45 21:05 09:20 15:35 15:45 21:05 09:20 10:35 15:35 15:45 09:20 15:35 15:45 16:40 21:05 09:20 10:35 15:35 15:45 16:40

Flight
SAT MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 SUN MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520

Dep

Arr

YANGON TO NAYPYITAW NAYPYITAW TO YANGON YANGON TO MANDALAY

NYAUNG U TO YANGON

YANGON TO BANGKOK

BANGKOK TO YANGON

07:55 09:20 09:10 10:35 14:10 15:35 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 07:55 09:20 14:10 15:35 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 19:40 21:05 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:45 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:45 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 10:00 14:55 15:50 16:40 14:30 15:00 14:30 15:00 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25 13:50 15:15 13:50 15:15

TUE

HEHO TO YANGON
MON

SUN

THUR

WED

YANGON TO SIEM REAP

WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401 08:50 11:25 08:50 11:25 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 11:20 15:50 08:45 13:15 11:20 15:50 08:45 13:15

TUE

8M 234
MON MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 TUE MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 WED MH 740 AK 850 THU MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 FRI MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 MH 740 AK 850 MH 740 8M 502 AK 850

TUE

THUR

KUALA LUMPUR TO YANGON

FRI

YANGON TO KUALA LUMPUR

MON 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 TUE 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851

FRI

WED

WED

SAT

THUR

SAT

FRI

THUR

SUN

WED FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 THUR FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FRI FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306

WED MH 741 AK 851 THU 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 MH 741 AK 851 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851

WED 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 THUR 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 FRI 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 FD 3772 PG 703 TG 305 8M 332 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332

FRI

SAT

SUN

YANGON TO MYITKYINA
MON TUE THUR FRI SUN SUN

SAT SUN

SAT SUN

FRI

MYITKYINA TO YANGON
MON TUE THUR FRI SUN W9 256 W9 252 AW 202 W9 256 W9 252 W9 256 W9 119 AW 761 YH 727 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 K7 822 W9 115 AW 761 YH 811 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 W9 119 YH 737 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 AW 761 YH 811 K7 224 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 224 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 822 AW 751 W9 119 YH 811 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 09:45 12:05 09:35 09:45 12:05 09:45 11:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 12:40 15:00 12:25 12:40 15:00 12:40 12:10 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 09:15 12:10 12:10 12:40 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:10 12:25 15:15 15:25 16:10 16:25 15:15 15:25 16:10 16:25 09:15 12:10 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 WED THUR FRI SAT SUN MON TUE

YANGON TO GUANGZHOU
WED CZ 3056 THUR 8M 711 SAT CZ 3056 SUN 8M 711 MON CI 7916 WED CI 7916 FRI TUE CI 7916 CA 906

GUANGZHOU TO YANGON
WED CZ 3055 THUR 8M 712 SAT CZ 3055

YANGON TO NYAUNG U
MON

YANGON TO SITTWE

SAT

SUN 8M 712 MON CI 7915 WED CI 7915 FRI TUE CI 7915 CA 905

YANGON TO TAIPEI
14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 13:30 16:40 13:30 16:40 12:00 13:30 12:00 13:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30

SAT

TAIPEI TO YANGON

TUE

YANGON TO HEHO
MON

SAT

SUN

WED

YANGON TO KUNMING
WED CA 906 THUR CA 906 SAT SUN Mon FRI CA 906 CA 906 IC734 IC734

KUNMING TO YANGON
WED CA 905 THUR CA 905 SAT SUN Mon FRI CA 905 CA 905 IC733 IC728

TUE

SITTWE TO YANGON
MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN MON TUE

SUN

THUR

SUN

MANDALAY TO YANGON
MON FRI

WED

YANGON TO KOLKATA

KOLKATA TO YANGON

THUR

YANGON TO CHIANG MAI

THUR W9 9607 SUN W9 9607

SINGAPORE TO YANGON
MON MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234 TUE MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234

SAT

YANGON TO SINGAPORE
MON 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517 TUE 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517

CHIANG MAI TO YANGON

THUR W9 9608 SUN W9 9608

TUE

FRI

YANGON TO MYEIK

YANGON TO HANOI
MON VN 956 WED VN 956 FRI SAT VN 956 VN 956

HANOI TO YANGON
MON VN 957 WED VN 957 FRI SAT TUE VN 957 VN 957 VN 943

SUN

SAT

THUR FRI SAT SUN MON TUE

Domestic
6T = Air Mandalay W9 = Air Bagan AW = Asian Wings K7 = AIR KBZ YH = Yangon Airways FD & AK = Air Asia TG = Thai Airways

International
8M = Myanmar Airways International PG = Bangkok Airways MI = Silk Air VN = Vietnam Airline MH = Malaysia Airlines CZ = China Southern CI = China Airlines CA = Air China IC = Indian Airlines Limited W9 = Air Bagan 3K = Jet Star

MYEIK TO YANGON

WED 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 THUR 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517 FRI 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517

YANGON TO HO CHI MINH

TUE VN 942 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10 08:50 12:50 08:50 12:50 THUR VN 942 SUN VN 942 WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401

WED MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 THUR MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 8M 234 FRI MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520

HO CHI MINH TO YANGON

THUR VN 943 SUN VN 943 WED 8M 402 SAT 8M 402

THUR FRI SAT SUN

YANGON TO PHNOM PENH

PHNOM PENH TO YANGON

YANGON TO GAYA
WED 8M 601 SAT 8M 601 09:00 10:30 09:00 10:30

GAYA TO YANGON
WED 8M 602 SAT 8M 602 11:30 15:00 11:30 15:00

Subject to change without notice

tea Break
February 27 - March 4, 2012
the

36
MyanMar tiMes

Bar Review

YOUR STARS
By Astrologer Aung Myin Kyaw
Aquarius
All mistakes stem from darkened understanding, ignorance, false interpretations of life and misuse of the subconscious mind. Your future will be the result of your habits of thought, unless you make an effort to change your course through wise decision-making. Communications will improve, although other factors could complicate social relations. Love from out of the blue might lead to suffering.

Running wild at The Street with wine and fish fingers

By Douglas Long THE opening night of The Street bar and restaurant in Yangon last December presented a carnival-like spectacle of dancing dwarfs, jesters on stilts and female models decorated with body paint, all strutting among the standing tables around which guests were huddled, gorging on buffet food and drinking free beer. The soundtrack for this unusual display was provided by a deejay spinning hip-hop tunes from his booth at the edge of the open terrace where much of the aforementioned action was unfolding. Jump forward two months for another visit to The Street, located at Mya Yeik Nyo Hotel in Bahan township. Gone are the people of restrictive growth, the skyclowns, the epidermically embellished ladies, and certainly gone is the free beer, but the throngs are still here, mostly young Myanmar socialites who crowd in after 8pm and tend to stay until around midnight, when many drift off to clubs to get their fix of 120bpm remixes of pop songs that probably should never have been recorded in the first place, let alone subjected to remixing. It must be the prospect of dancing in da club that prompts this exodus. Myanmar kids seem to harbour serious reservations about shaking their rump-pahs at the more bar-like venues around town, which is too bad, because the music at The Street is infinitely better, and more danceable, than the aural rot foisted upon the unfortunate youth of Yangon by danceclub deejays. But more on the music later. First lets pause to take in the atmosphere of The Street. As the name suggests, the bar/restaurant has been designed with an urban street theme in mind. Theres a wall with whimsical street signs attached, and there are directional arrows painted on the concrete terrace. There is also a brick wall with a mural of some dude on a motocross bike smashing through, which is not very urban or street-y, but its pretty cool so what the heck. Aside from the huge outdoor terrace, where most of the tables are located (the standing tables of opening night have been replaced with the normal kind around which it is possible to sit in chairs), there are also some booths inside, as well as a rooftop with comfy chairs and sofas. Theres no shortage of places to sit, eat and drink. The Street offers a fairly predictable menu of snacks

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Pisces

Contemplate your deep questions with faith and confidence, and your subconscious will take over and answer for you. You must understand the principal reasons for your failures. When your desires and imagination are in conflict, your imagination should invariably gain the day and guide your actions.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Aries

Criticism cannot hurt you without your consent. You cannot be frustrated when you know that you are master of your thoughts, reactions and emotions. Your next logical step should be to pray for the other persons peace, harmony and understanding. Use your intelligence and positive nature to tune into the purity of love and pleasure.

March 21 - April 19

Taurus

A problem you may have been suffering will be resolved to your satisfaction. Your life will be adventurous and exciting, and perhaps a bit unusual. A beneficial business transaction will improve your position, which might prompt you to change your appearance to reflect a new image. Your partner will make a change in your relationship, or you might change your approach to ease the suffering in your heart.

April 20 - May 20

Gemini

Dont volunteer set amounts of your time. You must choose between contributing something worthy to humanity and enjoying some hardearned leisure time. Make everything as simple as possible, as a simple idea can have an awe-inspiring effect on the world.

May 21 - June 20

Cancer

The Street, early evening, before the crowds arrive. Pic: Yadanar and appetisers, salads, European food (pan-fried red snapper, K7500; grilled beef tenderloin, K6000; fish and chips, K4000) and Asian standbys (hot and sour chicken, K5000; Thai curry pork, K5000; fried rice, K2500; fried watercress, K2000). I admit, however, to having dropped the proverbial ball a bit as a food reviewer, eschewing the mandate to gorge myself with multiple dishes from various sections of the menu in favour of sticking with rough-andtumble, whiskey-and-beerdrinking fare: fish fingers (K3000), barbecued pork ribs (K3500), chicken satay with peanut sauce (K3000) and deep fried spicy eel (K4000). All satisfying. Not mindblowing, but satisfying. Which was fine, because my expedition to The Street was made less with eating and more with drinking in mind. Aside from the aforementioned whiskey and beer (K2000 for a bottle of Myanmar beer), I decided that it was my duty as a reviewer to sample at least one cocktail (which range in price from K2000 to K5000). With the lilting vocals of Snoop Doggy Dogg wafting on the air, the obvious choice was gin and juice. This option being absent from the menu, I scanned my memory for some old-time gangsta rap lyrics that might provide a clue as to which juice U Doggy Dogg was referring to when he rapped the praises of sippin on gin and juice. G r a p e f r u i t ? Pi n e a p p l e ? Pomegranate? Tomato? According to the limited data available in my brain, Snoop had been quite explicit about his preference for Seagrams and Tanqueray, but nary a reference to the sort of macerated fruit that he might have placed in his cup alongside his gin could be hauled to the forefront of my mind. In the absence of a clear clue, and not wanting to offend The Doggfather with an ill choice, I abandoned South Central LA and jumped ship for Polynesia, opting for a Mai Tai (K4000). Not bad. Plenty of rum, a tinge of fruitiness. Perfect for a tropical winters evening under the stars. Cue Amy Sumac and the rumbling of Tahitian volcanoes. My wife, meanwhile, had decided to order a bottle of Georges Duboeuf Merlot 2010 from the menu (street value K8000, The Street value K17,000). Judging by the tremendous challenge that removing the cork from the bottle posed for our two waiters and their Swiss Army knife corkscrew, it was clear that red wine was not a frequently requested item at The Street. However, buying the bottle did earn my wife a spin on the heretofore unnoticed wheel of fortune standing in the corner of the outdoor terrace, the result of which was a 25 percent discount on our tables alcoholic beverage bill for the entire night. Drink up! And drink we did, while rapping (in the old, conversational sense of the term) and listening to the house mix of hip-hop music, another survivor of the outrageously wacky hijinks that characterised The Streets opening night. (Did I mention there had been a guy walking around with a live python hanging from his neck?) This time there was no actual deejay, just a compilation CD played at perfect volume, low enough to facilitate conversation, loud enough to set the speakers buzzing (which says more about the quality of the speakers than the volume). As already mentioned, the music was many times better than what can be heard in local dance clubs, with the mix including classics like Cypress Hills Insane in the Brain and 2 Pacs California Love, as well as more recent tunes like Yung Jocs Im a G. But thats not to say all is well at The Street. If the venue is going to focus on a single genre of music, it would do well to be a bit more creative and diversify its collection beyond the narrow confines of popc u l t u r e , M T V- a p p r o v e d gangsta rap and its bastard offspring. In a place like The Street, it will probably always be necessary to make room for the likes of that tepid Clay Aiken of hip-hop known as 50 Cent, and of course the master of the repetitive, never-ending whinge, Eminem. Boo hoo, yo. But theres much more to hip-hop than that: Immortal Technique, MF Doom, Schoolboy Q, Shabazz Palaces, Das Racist, Odd Future, Ras, Dizzee Rascal to name a few of the less obscure representatives of non-gangsta subgenres. There should be airspace enough for all of it.

Good mental balance is essential for managing yourself and your role in social relationships. Remember to give something back and realise that all people have value. Look for ways to remove unnecessary steps without harming the end result. Editing according to your own plan can also save money. Always focus on quality over quantity, and your relationships will become harmonious.

June 22 - July 22

Leo

Taking pride in your work does not mean that you must succumb to stress. Your small decisions can have a profound impact not only on your day-to-day affairs but also on the course of your life. Try to view each moment as a learning opportunity, and you might find a way to apply these lessons toward finding a better path in life.

July 23 - Aug 22

Virgo

Change your physical structure by changing your thoughts and keeping them changed. Learn how important it is to take pride in everything you do, and you will automatically start pursuing all tasks with great care and with a sense of honour. An old friends suggestion will encourage you to fulfil your desires in your love life and family relationships.

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Libra

Maintaining a strong constitution requires a free state of mind and good mental balance. A bright new chapter in your life might begin if you turn over a new leaf and make some positive changes or a better choice of friends. You will enjoy a period of being a social butterfly, which could help add new chapters to the unfolding story of your love life. You should expect the unexpected.

Sept 23 - Oct 22

Scorpio

You will soon receive good news that you have long wished to hear, which will inspire you to rise above your problems no matter how difficult. It is important to start using meditation as soon as possible to embark on a journey of spiritual development. Misunderstandings in your love life will lead to heart pain, which can be healed only through careful communication and trust-building.

Oct 23 - Nov 21

Sagittarius

Approach each day as if you were a rock star: Walk onto the stage of this day and play your heart out, giving the performance of your life. Work as if you held the most important position in your company, and dont play second fiddle to others around you. Encourage someone you love by supporting their plea of not guilty. Dont play around with words when it comes to showing your affection.

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Capricorn

Add meaning to your life by making your position clear, even if it means contradicting your relatives and other loved ones. Let them know that what you are really doing is setting yourself up for a richer, happier and more fulfilling experience of living, which requires the deepest devotion and great sympathy for yourself. For a personal reading contact Aung Myin Kyaw, 4th Floor, 113 Thamain Bayan Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon. Tel: 0973135632, Email: williameaste@gmail.com

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Business
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Computer
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Language
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Management, Business & Investing, Accounting, Briefcase Series, Interview skills. English language can be available at Innwa Book Store, A Yone Thit Book Store, TAB Book Centre (Taw Win Centre). Yar Pyae (Mandalay) Book Store & Tun Oo (Mandalay) Book Store. 214, 4th Flr, Corner of Anawrahta Rd & 32nd St, Pabedan, Email: nyoon. bookdealing@ gmail. com Ph: 386693, 09-504-6769. BABY If you need baby sitter for half day you can contact sharyangle@gmail.com

PROPERTY
HousingforRent
BAhAN, : ShweGondaing, Condo, 7F, 1500 Sqf , Fully Furnished, Fully Furniture, 3 A/C, 1 MBR, 2 SBR ,1PH, 750USD, (Suitable to Rent for Foreigner), near down town, near golden Vally Call-01-569448, 09-731-35900 BAhAN : New University Avenue Lane, Condo, 7F, 1500Sqft , Fully Furnished, Fully Furniture, 3 A/C, 1 MBR, 2 SBR, 1PH, (Suitable to Rent for Foreigner), 800USD. Call-01569448, 09.73135900 CHANTHA GONYAUNG Executive Codominiums - Penthouse/ Rooms. -4 rooms, 5 rooms. - Fully Furnished. - Amazing serenity and satisfactory facilities, club restaurant. -24 hours electricity internet, cable TV. -Brookers welcome. -Interested parties pls call 430078 to 87 (Ext : 0,303), 09-430-85887, 09-430-85889, BAhAN. (for Foreigner) Pearl Condo Tower D, 6 floor Fully Furnished about 1780 Sqft, 3BR. US$1800/mt 1 year Contract. Call: 09-5018701. BAhAN. Pearl Condo Tower E, 4th floor. Fully Furnished (including kitchen ware) Inclusive of electricity, water, wireless internet, satellite TV channels. about 1780sq ft, 3BR. US$3000/mt (nego) Payable Monthly Call: 095200654 BAhAN , 0.25' acres, 2 Story Building, 5 MBR, Garden,2 Entrance gate Semi Funished, Phone, Generactor, Good Electricity Sutiable for office, US$ 3600 per month (Nego:)U Wisara Rd, 40x73' 2 1/2 Story Building, 3 MBR, new house, Fully aircon, Phone, US$ 2500 per month (Nego:) Inya Rd, 0.5acce Nice Colony style building, Big garden, 3MBR US$ 3500 per month (Nego:) Ph: 09-73206789

Training
SUMMER SINGING course 2012 Commencing Date : 7th March, 2012. Completion Date : 30th May, 2012. Sessions (Tue + Thur) 9:00 am to 11:00 am (Wed + Fri) 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm (Sat + Sun) 10:00 am to 12:00 noon. Contact Address : UNIQUE Music Class - No.304 (A-4), Waizayantar Rd, 16/3 Quarter, Thingangyun

Housing for Sale

SOUTH OKKALA, 20' x 60' house, Anawmar 2nd St , Block 13, Ph: 572607, 09-861-8286. BAhAN, Locate at Golden Valley 2, Inya Myaing Rd, Total Sqft 14950 (Nearly 15000) Price - 250000 per Sqft. Ph: 513160. BAHAN, 40 x 60 ft plot at Kaba Aye, Two storey house include. Selling price - 2300 lakhs (negotiable). Tel: 663326, 09-731-97531, 09-431-26571, 09-43141971.

Food
DE CHEF Corner Bakery Since- 1999, Rm No.03, Ground Flr. Block C, Pearl Condo, Bahan, Yangon. Tel: 554253.

Public Notice
EMBASSY of India in Yangon invites offers from Architects/ Consultants for designing/supervising/ construction of 122500 square feet boundary wall of its property at 35 Thantaman Road, Yangon. The interested Consultancy Services may submit their Expression of Interest to Head of Chancery, Embassy of India, 545547 Merchant Street, and Yangon along with company details & credentials/references by 29th February, 2012. For further information and obtaining terms of references please contact- Ms. Molly391219 Ext. 134 during office hours. PHOTOGRAPHY Especially food and interior photography for Hotels & Restaurant Contact ; Sam (Tel : 09731-74404) MYANMAR COOK Book A unique Myanmar Cook Book with recipes for practical usage, written in English by Daw Ena WinB.FastMo hinga,Ohn no Khauk swear, Shwe taung Khauk swear, etc . . .Rice & CurryChicken Curry, Duck Curry,Prawn Curry etc,Myanmar Style.Available in Yangon (1). Innwa Book Store, Pansodan St. Tel : 389838, 374234. (2). Myanmar Book Centre, Tel 221271 (3).Bishop store, Old Yaydarshay Rd, Bahan (4).Tab Book Center, Taw win Plaza, Tel: 8600042, 8600043 (Daw Ena Win & Associates) NYOON Book Dealing: Various kinds of Books regarding Business

Expert Service
REAL PROPERTY Service If you want to buy,sell or rent Land, Condominium, apartment, house Office and need advice regarding with property, contact 0973135900,01-569448. DOwNLOADING Service :We offer services for downloading large file with fair price. Just contact us. info. futuretech. mm@ gmail. com Ph: 09-5160225,195150720 COMPUTER TUTOR :Basic, DTP, Video, editing, Graphic, Zaua. Ph: 09 730 227 43zauatahan @ gmail. com No. 7, 7A, 89th St, Kandawlay, Yangon SEARCH PROPERTY Online : Are you looking to buy, rent, sell or rent out your property? Please visit us at: www.eainsearch.com or call: 09 732 493 78 REAL EASTE If you need Land, House Apartment, Office Room, Building to buy or sell you are welcome to contact caroline.zita@gmail. com AIRCON & Electrical Engineering Services (Installation,Repairing & Servicing) August Engineering Service. Tel; 09-731-10321, 586509 Email; aes. august@ googlemail. com C.L.T Ladies Fashion Tailoring (Use Centimeter Unit) Bldg. 8, Rm No. 1 Yankin Lane Thwe 5, East Yankin, Ph: 09-73025931.

For Sale
RAzER Starcraft 2 Headphone Apple Superdrive New cmda 800mhz + c8500 handset with no internet Ph: 09730-48374 HD GAME, app (install) iPhone, iPod 6000ks, iPad 8000ks, iTunes : account open (free game,app download) , iOS 5 all iDevices full untethered: jailbreak (power off) iPhone 4s, iPad 2 available. contact :09-514-7480 RAzER STARCRAFT 2 Headphone Apple Superdrive New cmda 800mhz + c8500 handset with no internet Ph: 09730-48374 iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch , PSP Services :Jailbreak , game install, Version Upgrade, iPhone4 / 4S sim card cutting, PSP modify + Games Service, Create iTunes account (ygn / mdy), Create Gmail account (ygn / mdy), Ph: 09-73903193 (mandalay only) (1) HR SOFTwARE Package: Price 200,000. Modules: Employee Management, Time Attendance, Payroll. (Available :Finger Print/ Card). (2)POS Software Package: Price 200,000. Modules: Inventory Control, Purchase, Sale, Account Payable. (Available :Barcode Printer/Scanner). Ph:09504-2775 CAN buy for wish: Narrow of modernness Kaw Lin citys history, history of holy return Buddha, Magazine for pearl sign of Kyaws monastery, Myanmars poetry of fifty

, Yangon. Tel : 09-43093361. GUITAR GUIDE To Home Ph-09 73194925 UNITED KARATE Aikido Combat Dojo No. 267, 5th Flr Pyay Rd (front of Dagon Center II) Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tel: 09-507-7634, 09567-0442 Monday, Wednesday, 18:00 to 20:00 - Sports Karate Friday, 18:00 to 20:00 Combat Karate (Sayargyi U Thaung Din Style) Member fees - 15,000 Kyats Registrat-ion Monthly - 10,000 Kyats. United Club old members: FOC Registration Monthly 50% off - Moe Lwin. SMART Fitness Center : Invite to all of our customer, Grantee for over weight men & women (over 200 lb), to get always smart & healthy body, Available to discuss with skillful training teacher, Teach in systematically. Ph: 09730-17729. 142, 47th St, 1st Flr, Botataung.

Travel
PACKAge Tour to USA & Europe for April 2012 are available at United Treasure Travel (UT) with attractive offer. For booking & inquiry, just call to 09-731-77936, 09-516-5219, 558866.

BAhAN,Kanbawza Rd, Golden Valley, Bahan, Yangon. 30x30 ft, 2 new stories building with 30x110 ft land. Backyard lawn and greenery. Very quiet place.1 master bed room and 2 bed rooms. Fully furnished. Best electricity in town. YCDC water. US$ 1200/mt.Can provide phone/internet depend on price. Ph: 09-732-06783 ,09- 5010816. SUPERB location for TRUCKS parking in downtown area. 5 minutes drive from Hle Dan Junction. 15 minutes drive to Hlaing Thar Yar, airport. Dhama Thukha Kyaung Rd, Hlaing. 0.8 acres compound: (a) land only (b) 2 x 3-phase industrial power meter (c) 1 x phone landline pls contact 09 5012920 SOUTH OKKALAPA: 10 minutes drive from Sedona Hotel, Mya Thida Housing , Banglow , 2 story building, Fully furnished, Fullyfurniture, 4 MB, 4SB, Ph, A/C, Good Neighborhood, 15 Lakhs, Foreigners welcome. Call - 01-569448, 09731-35900

Rent / Sale
TAMwAE : Lovely Banglow, 2 Story, 1 MB, 2SB, 50x100' Yard, Fully Furnished, 1Ph, 9 Lakhs, Foreigners welcome. Call - 01-569448, 09731-35900

Want to hire
TO HIRE Suitable building to run an office (or) to take relax two bed rooms with bathroom attached About 7 miles from Pathein bridge road side of Pathein Ngwe Saung run way Contact: 095201910/01-534580 VILLA OR CONDO (for foreigner) Bahan, Mayankone, Hlaing, Kamayut,Thingankyun, Yankin. RC, MB, SB, Water-Well & YCDC, Good Electricity, A/C, Ph, Attached to Garden, Furnished, Rent Rate - $600 ~ $1000. Pls contact by house owner to Ms. Hnin Si within office hours 9AM to 5PM556692, 540995 NEAR YUzANA PLAzA, warehouse to hire. Ph: 546309.

Education
M.ED- degree holder English teacher with 35years English teaching experience can be contacted for individual English Speaking, IELTS or Matriculation Classes. Booking for 2012-13 academic year Matriculation English class can be available. Ph: 09-505-8164. TeAChINg combination of Foreign & Myanmar Style/ Skillful Teachers, Teachers who have got

Want To Hire
A MNC that is planning to open an office in Yangon is seeking the following for short term and long term lease; Land Crusier, Pajero, and Toyota Hiace, aircon, and must be clean, to include driver. Please quote on a daily, weekly & monthly lease terms.

Employment
Embassy
THE EMBASSY of the Republic of Korea is seeking one personal driver. Requirements : Age 25 to 40 years old. Communication in English (Korean can be assisted). Good Interpersonal skill. Good in Health. The interested person can send the lasted CV form to 97, UniversityAvenue,Bahan, Yangon (Embassy of the Republic of Korea), Ph: 01-527142~44 Contact person: Honey Soe (Admin Department). A FOREIGN Mission in Yangon is looking for a Secretary (Female), fluent in written/ oral English (minimum 3 years experience). Please send CV with recent photo to tztztz78@ gmail.com. Community Facilitator, 1 post in Pyapon : High School Graduate. Working experience in the field of community facilitation would be an advantage. Fair listen-ing, spoken and writing skill in English is preferable. (2) Field Nurse, 1 post in Pyapon : B.N.Sc or degree in Public Health (Health Assistant). Previous working experience in primary health care and MCH would be advantagous. Knowledge of English is an asset. Experience in training/ Teaching. Basic computer skill. (3)Data Clerk - 1 post in Pyapon: B.C.Sc/ B.C Tech/ Other Degree related with InformationTechnology. Previous working experience in database management system would be advantage. Experience working in Health related project is preferable. Knowledge of English an asset. Experience on Database Design and Developments is preferable. Pls submit CV and a cover letter to MDM Country Coordination Office, Yangon. 47-B, Po Sein St, Bahan. Ph: 542830, Email: hr. mdmmyan mar@mail. com. HelpAge International is a global network of notfor-profit organisations. HelpAge mission is to work with our partners to ensure that people everywhere understand how much older people contribute to society and that they must enjoy their right to healthcare, social services and economic and physical security. HelpAge is widening the scope of its work in Myanmar and expanding to new geo-graphical locations. Currently, HelpAge, in collaboration with relevant Government agencies and partners, in implementing projects that support older people and other vulnerable groups by strengthening their livelihood and food security, health and DRR capacities in Ayerawaddy, Mandalay and Sagaing Regions. The project activities focus on promoting participatory development approaches for the formation and capacity development of Self Help Groups to reinforce their existing livelihood activities, starting new income generating activities, provision of community-based Home Care service, training in Self Care, etc. The overall aim of the programme is to reduce poverty and vulnerability of older people and to facilitate their participation in community development. We are now seeking for qualified and experienced Myanmar national for the following position: Job Title ; Communi-cations Specialist. Location : Yangon. Qualifications/ compe-tencies -Education: Bachelors degree in journalism, communi-cations or any other related field. 4 years experience in communi cations and publishing, preferably with an international NGO. Experience in develop-ing donor reports. Excellent organizatio-nal & timemanage-ment skills, with an ability to prioritize effectively and meet deadlines. Solid skills in writing, with ability to tailor writing style to audience & project brief.Excellent communication & interpersonal skills. Ability to work effectively with culturally diverse team members from various disciplines, and in a fast-paced team environment. Flexible approach to working outside normal office hours, particularly when called upon to support country teams or meet deadlines. Must be able to analyze, organize and integrate detailed information clearly, quickly, & consistently. Advanced written and spoken English & Myanmar languages skills. Pls send a Cover Letter & CV to HR Unit of HelpAge Int'l Myanmar Country Office : 10, Kanbawza Avenue, Shwetaungya Ward , 1, Bahan, Yangon OR by email to hr. helpage myanmar @ gmail.com no later than 5 p.m., Wednesday, 29th February 2012. Candidates interested in receiving full JD, pls contact HelpAge Int'l Myanmar Country Office OR send your request to hr.helpage myanmar@ gmail.com. knowledge. Pls submit CV with other testimonial to Yangon head office: 75 (D), Banyadala Rd, Bahan , near Shin Par Ku Clinic. Ph: 546225/6, 543963. we are urgently seeking (1) General Manager M 1 post: Any graduate or higher degree (MBA is preferable). Age 35 -45. 7 years experience at Senior Management level. Excellent knowledge in English (2) HR Manager - M/F 1 post : Any graduate, more preferable MBA degree or DMA diploma holder. Age 30-45. 5 years experience. Demonstrable experience in Microsoft Office, especially Access & Excel. Effective spoken & written English. (3) Logistic Manager - M 1 post : Any graduate. Age 40. 5 years experience in logistic fields. Good command of English. Computer literate. Must be able to traveling & staying in Shan State (Nam Kham). (4) Business Development Manager - M/F 1 post: Any Graduate or Higher Degree (MBA is preferable). Age 35-45. 5 years experiences and 3 years direct experience in Business development fields. Good command of English, Excellent public relation skills. (5) Business Development Dy Manager/ Asst Manager - M/F 1 post : Any Graduate (MBA is preferable). Age 35 ~ 40. 3 years experience . Ability to communication with English. Computer literate. (6) Senior Executive (Commercial) - M/F 2 posts : Working experience in commercial fields (Export, Import documentation). Age above 35. 3 years experience . Good command of English/ Chinese is preferable. Computer literate. Must be staying in Northern Shan State alternati-vely. Accommodation & meal are arranged during in Shan State (Nam Kham). (7) Senior Accountant - M/F 2 posts : B.Com, B.Act, CPA or Higher Degree. Age 30 ~ 45. 5 years experience. Must be staying in Northern Shan State alternatively. Accommodation & meal are arranged during in Shan State (Nam Kham). Good command of English/ Chinese is preferable. (8) Business Development Executive M/ F 2 posts : Any Graduate. Age under 35. 1-2 years experiences in Business development & tender field. Good command of English. Computer literate. (9) Manager for Executive Office - M/F 1 post :Any Graduate (MBA is preferable). Age 3545. 5 years experiences in cooperative mulitple tasks with all concerning department. Good command in English with planning & Implementation. Computer literate. Pls submit an application letter, with full CV detailing your experience, knowledge & skills. Pls include the names & contact details of referees to HR Department : hrd1@ pristinemyanmar. com or PO Box 428 or No.B/7, Taw Win Rd, 9 Mile, Mayangone within 2 weeks. ThABICO Manufacturing & Trade Company (THABICO) is seeking Information Recruiment 1 post : Age 23 ~ 30. Minimum in Bachelors Degree in Food Science/ Chemical within related field. Strong technical knowledge; Good sales & negotiation skills; Team work, ability to learn fast; Decision making and problem solving skills. Good communi-cation & written English. Pls send full resume, stating current & expected salary, and enclosing a recent photograph to : Nguyen Van Bay/ U Thein Zaw : 629/631, Pyay Rd, Kamayut . Tel: 503603/ 534439, 09-5415513. Email: vanbay. nguyen 76@ gmail.com or duyphuong@thabico. com wE ARE seeking to appoint experienced Travel Consultant & Product Executive. Please contact Nature Travels & Tours. Tel: 255 620, 09-501 1287 Email: adm.trails. myanmar @ gmail.com M-SPIRAL is an exciting new IT and marketing company opening in Yangon. We will provide high-quality creative services to clients ranging from corporations to community groups. Were now recruiting for the following positions: web & Graphic Designer : 3 years experience minimum in both web and graphic design. Experience in Photoshop CS3 and Illustrator. Self-motivator with artistic flair.Send CV, cover letter and folio/ links to hr@mspiral.com. web developer: 2 years experience minimum in web development. Must have expert knowledge of HTML, CSS, PHP and MYSQL. Wordpress experience preferred. Self-motivator with strong critical thinking and problem solving skills. Send CV, cover letter and folio of weblinks to hr@mspiral. com.Finance and Administration Officer : 3 years experience in accounting and office administration. Self-motivator with strong critical thinking skills. Bachelors degree in accounting or related discipline. Send CV and cover letter to hr@mspiral. com. Content writer: 3 years experience minimum in print media and/or marketing. Strong English writing skills and translation experience. Corporate and entertainment writing and experience preferred. Send CV, cover letter and 3 recent English and Burmese language writing samples to hr@mspiral. com. Applications close March 6th. We are an equal opportunity employer. URGENTLY Required: (1) Project Director, (2) Project Manager, (3) Site Manager. The applicants for the all the above mentioned positions must be degree holder of BE Civil. Project location is Kyauk Phyu. Good command in English is an added advantage. Interested & qualified persons are welcomed to submit full CV, detailing skills, knowledge & experience with recent color passport sized photograph and copies of the testimonials to the contacts below. Ph: 09-731-89577, 221134, 218387. Feel free to contact for detail information. Mail: Application can be submitted via Email tossa@myanmaroffshoreltd.com. Pls mark applied position in front of CV. Attractive salary. Urgently required. ADVERTISING AGENCY Looking for an outgoing & creative Male to join our video editing team. Salary Negotiable. Knowledge of Adobe software, 2D/3D animation & editing software with min. 1 year working experience. Ability to be a team player and must be able to work independently and under tight deadlines. Call : 09-5069346 for an appointment. THE E4Y is a school education program for out-of-school-youngsters. It is an opportunity for children between the age of 13-17 years that have to leave the normal school system due to difficult circumstances. We are looking for Subject Teacher - M/F: Age under 40. Able to speak & to write English fluently. Able to work with computer very well. Experience in the related field. What we offer: Work in a friendly motivated team. Guidance & instructions of experienced teachers. Correct salary. Pls summit application form with references not later than 15 March 2012 to Vocational Orientation Program for Out-ofSchool- Young-sters/ E4Y, No65, Kyaikwine Boys Training Center, Kyaikwine Pagoda Rd, Mayangone, Tel: 09731-04683. ORYx Int'l General Svcs Co., Ltd. is seeking (1) Office Manger - M/F 1 Post : Age 30 to 45, Fluent in English, good commu-nication skills, well versed in computer. Willing to travel alone to Nay Pyi Taw for Government office follow up. (2) Tour Operation Manager - M/F 1 Post : Age 35 to 50. Must have experience to plan and operate inbound tours. Fluent in English, computer literate. (3) Asst: Accountant M/F 1 Post : Age 35 to 45, Fluent in English, computer accounting. (4) Computer Operator - F 1 Post : Good in English, 5 years experience in Internet, Email, Office Word, Excel, Pagemaker & Photoshop. All above positions must have 3 to 5 years experience in same field. Salary will depend on experience & qualification. Submit your details resume to Rm 806, Yuzana Tower Bahan, Tel: 558398, 09 430 66708. ASIA Language & Business Academy (ALBA) urgently requires an English native teacher for our weekend program. Pls contact: 384055, 376236, Email:admin @albaedu.com MYANMAR SATELLITE Telecom Co., Ltd. is seeking (1) Telecommunication Engineer for planning, execution and setting up new mobile telecom company, age 40 ~ 60, fluent in English, must be able to maintain good relations with Government office. (2) Architect (all levels) degree or diploma, Auto Cad 3 D, experience in large scale projects. (3) Operation Manager age 40 50 for inbound tours to handle foreign clients, must be fluent in English, experience 3 5 years. Pls contact with your CV to Rm 806, Yuzana Tower, Bahan , Tel: 558398, 09 430 66708. we are seeking (1) General Manager - M 1 Post: Any Graduate or Higher Degree (MBA is preferable). Age 3555. 7 years experience at Senior Management Level. Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Must be able to responsible for Planning, Implementation and Reporting. Excellent knowledge in English language. (2) HR Manager - M/F 1 Post : Any Graduate, more preferable MBA degree or DMA diploma holder. Age 30-40. 5 years experience. Ability to understand the principle of employment practice & labor law. Demonstrable experience in Micrsoft Office, especially Access and Excel. Leadership skill & planning; manage-ment of budgets; management of resources monitoring; reporting; communication; networking & Competency of self management.Effective spoken and written English. (3) Logistic Manager - M 1 Post : Any Graduate. Age under 40. 5 years experience in logistic field. Good command of English is preferable. Computer literate. Must be available for traveling and staying in Shan State. Must be in self responsibility and accountability. (4) Business Development Manager - M/ F 1 Post : Any Graduate or Higher Degree (MBA is preferable). Age 3545. 5 years experience and 3 years direct experience in Business development fields, & including knowledge & experience of working process in relation with Government Ministries & Int'l Trade procedure. Knowledge in tender project in a must. Good command of English, Excellent Public relation skills. Available for traveling. Computer literate. (5) Senior Executive (Commercial) - M/ F 2 Posts : Working experience in Commercial Fields (Export, Import documentation). Age uder 35. 3 years experience. Good command of English/ Chinese is preferable. Computer literate. Must staying in Northern Shan State. (6) Senior Accountant - M/ F 2 Posts : B.Com, B.Act, CPA or Higher Degree. Age 30-45. 5 years experience. Must be staying in Northern Shan State. Good command of English/ Chinese is preferable. (7) Business Development Executive - M/ F 2 Posts : Any Graduate. Age under 35. 1-2 years experiences in Business development & Tender field. Good command of English. Computer literate. Pls submit an application letter, with full CV detailing your experience, knowledge & skills. Pls include the names & contact details of referees to the HR Department by email to hrd1@pristinemyanmar. com or PO Box 428 or No.B/7, Taw Win Rd, 9 Mile, Mayangone within 2 weeks. THE CENTER for Vocational Training is recruiting a Teacher for Electrician Profession 1 Post. The suitable person for this post has a degree in B.E (E.P) or CVT graduated, with 5 years experience. Age 30 years and above are preferable. Has to teach material knowledge, working technique and electrical installation subjects at Practical Training Course (PTC). Interested in wide spectre of the profession related aspect in general. Used to work with a computer (Microsoft Office). Good command in written and spoken English is preferable. Submit the applications with CV and Copy of Education Certificate to the reception counter in a closed envelope or by e-mail at or before 15th March 2012. 3rd Flr, MRCS Bldg 42, Strand Rd, Botahtaung , Ph: 383676, 09-43050926, 09-731-66206. E-mail:cvtygn@golden land.com.mm cvt. 2001. 2009@gmail. com THURA SwISS is a Myanmar-based research, consulting, technology and knowledge-transfer company. Incorporated by Dr. AungThura, a Myanmar national who was born and educated in Switzerland, Thura Swiss unites int'l and local professionals to provide its customers with in-depth knowledge of the Myanmar market and Swiss quality service. The company is looking for dynamic and motivated individuals to join its team as consultants in banking and market entry of companies. The consultant is responsible for keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in the investment climate and the banking sector in Myanmar, informing clients (new foreign and local companies, banks) of these developments, respond ing in an efficient and timely manner to the clients requests, and helping develop and introduce new products in banking. The candidate should meet the following criteria: Hold a university degree in economics or finance (preferably, but not necessarily, a Masters degree in one of these areas), Have experien-ce working with banks and/or foreign companies, Have extensive knowledge of Myanmars economy and the banking sector in the country and globally, Speak and write in good English and Myanmar. The position requires the aspiring individual to have a lot of initiative, be proactive, be able to work independently, manage work load with respect to deadlines and possess excellent client communication and presentation skills. Thura Swiss provides self-starters excellent opportunities for professional growth. If you are interested, pls send updated CV and cover letter (in English) before 28 February 2012 to: hr@thuraswiss. com. Pls contact May Thaw at: 654730, 654731 Do-Re-Mi Family Club is seeking for the Music & Movement Instructors/ Pre-School Teacher for young children. Basic Music knowledge Can sing in tune, know s beat & rhuthm. Age 2128 Female. Fluent oral & written English. Any degree holder. Plesant personality. Pls send CV with a recent passport size photo & copies of educational qualification to Kids Garden at Marina residence. No. 8, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone. Ph: 650634. INTER GROUP of Companies is a leading management consulting company based in Singapore is seeking for Myanmar Assistant Accounts Executive: 2 years experience in full set of Accounts preparation. B.Com/ ACCA Level 2/ LCCI Level 3 with relevant experience. Proficient in MYOB software. Excellent Microsoft Excel/ Spread Sheet skills. Willing to travel overseas. Receptionist cum Admin Assistant: Minimum Diploma holder. 3 years experience in handling customers or in guest service. Computer literate & familiar with Office Applications. Pls submit detailed resume with one recent passport photos and cover letter together with copies of educational certifi-cates & testimonials to Inter Consulting Co., Ltd :30 (B-1), Rm 601, 6th Flr, Yadanar Innya Condo, Than Lwin Rd, Bahan, Tel: 09-731-05353, 09731-05340, Email: hr@ icononline. net.Closing date : 29, February 2012.

INGO Position
MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is seeking (1) Counselor (VCCT) 1 post in Yangon : Graduate or Degree. Good Knowledge in English. Good communication skill. (2) Nurse (ART Counselor) 1 post in Yangon : Graduate or Degree. 1 year experience with HIV/ AIDS & ART patients. Basic English. Good communication & counseling skills. Team spirit. Pls submit CV and a cover letter to MDM Yangon Office. 16, Kan Yeik Thar St, Mayangone, Ph: 662604, 652658 (OR) Email: hr. mdmmyanmar @ gmail. com MALTESER Int'l is looking for a Project Manager in Pauktaw & Myebon, Rakhine State. Qualifications: Preferably Master degree or equivalent professional experience in the fields of rural development; 4 years experience in project management including managing human resources, logistics and budgets; Excellent communication skills including a good sense of diplomacy & discernment; Fluent in Myanmar & English. Proficient in Microsoft Office (particularly Word, Excel, & Power Point), Previous working experience in Rakhine State is a strong asset. Pls submit application incl. CV, 2 photos, copies of educational certificate, National ID, & references to Malteser Int'l Country Office: # 1415 (6F), Pyi Taw Aye Yeik Thar St, Yankin, Email: hr.co. malteser@ gmail. com Closing date: 05th March, 2012 MEDECINS sans Frontieres - Switzerland (MSF-CH) is looking for motivated & experienced candidates for its HIV activities in Yangon for the following position: Pharmacy Stock Manager: Recruitment Criteria- Paramedical background is preferable. Stock management experience in preferable. Computer skills. English (required) andMyanmar.Shouldyou wish to apply, pls submit application (motivation letter, updated CV and copy of professional diplomas) to HR Officer. MSF Switzerland :101, Dhamazedi Rd, Kamayut. E-mail: msfchrangoon-web@ geneva. msf.org, Ph: 526194, 502509, We will not receive your application if the attachment size is more than 3 MB. The most suitable applicants will be convened for a personal interview. Closing date : before 1st March 2012. Interview will be conducted on 5th March 2012. MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is seeking (1)

Local Position
ALBA requires experienced part time Art and Music teachers. Prefer teachers familiar with western Art and Music programs. 66, Shwedagon Pagoda Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 376236, 376314, Email: admin@ albaedu.com NATIVe English speakers wanted for part time teaching at ALBA. Experience preferred. We have current vacancies. 66, Shwedagon Pagoda Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 376236, 376314, Email: admin@ albaedu.com (1) BRAND MANAGER - M/F 1 post : University Degree & higher qualification such as MPA (or) MBA/ Masters degree is an added advantage. 2 ~ 3 years experiences. Excellent written & oral commu-nication skills in English Good computer skills on all common Microsoft applicants. (2) Accountant - F 3 post : B.Com (or) LCCI Level III. 2-3 years experience. Good computer skills on all common Micro-soft applications & accounting software. (3) Sales Executive & Respresentative M/F 6 posts: University Graduate (MBA holder prefer). 2 ~ 3 years experiences. Age 25 ~ 30. Can speak English fluently. Can use MS excel, word,pagemaker. Pls submit a cover letter & detailed CV with relevant document & a recent photo to: Rm 807, 8th Flr, La Pyayt Wunn Plaza, Dagon Tsp. Closing date: 15th March 2012. SAVOY HOTEL is urgently looking for (1) Chief Engineer - 1 post: must have 5 yrs experience in related fields. (2) HR/Payroll Assistant - 1 post : must have at least 2 years experience. (3) Receptionists - 1 posts (4) waiter/waitress 3 posts. (5) Driver - 1 post. For Position 3, 4 & 5 must have at least 1 year experience in hotel fields. Application letter by email to operations @ savoyhotel-yangon. com or 129, Dhamma-zedi Rd, Yangon. Tel: (95-1) 526298, 526289. BAgAN ThANDe Hotel Group Co., Ltd. is looking for Reservation Manager or Asst. Reservation Manager : Age25-35tobeappointed for Yangon Office. Required skills : 5 years experience in related field, positive attitude, Excellent writing and good communication skills in Myanmar and English, good personality, able to use computer (Microsoft word & Excel) & Internet & Email

The Essentials
EMBASSIES Australia 88, Strand Road, Yangon. tel : 251810, 251797, 251798, 251809, 246462, 246463, fax: 246159 Bangladesh 11-B, Than Lwin Road, Yangon. tel: 515275, 526144, fax: 515273, email: bdootygn@mptmail.net. mm Brazil 56, Pyay Road, 6th mile, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. tel: 507225, 507251, 507482. fax: 507483. email: Administ.yangon@ itamaraty.gov.br. Brunei 317/319, U Wizara Road, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. tel: 526985, 524285, fax: 512854 email: bruneiemb@ bruneiemb.com.mm Cambodia 25 (3B/4B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 549609, 540964, fax: 541462, email: RECYANGON @mptmail. net.mm China 1, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 221280, 221281, 224025, 224097, 221926, fax: 227019, 228319 Egypt 81, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 222886, 222887, fax: 222865, email: egye mbyangon@mptmail. net.mm France 102, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 212178, 212520, 212523, 212528, 212532, fax: 212527, email: ambaf rance. rangoun@ diplomatie.fr Germany 9, Bogyoke Aung San Museum Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 548951, 548952, fax: 548899 email: info@rangun. diplo.de India 545-547, Merchant Street, Yangon. tel: 391219, 388412, 243972, fax: 254086, 250164, 388414, email: indiaembassy @mptmail. net.mm Indonesia 100, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 254465, 254469, 229750, fax: 254468, email: kukygn @indonesia.com.mm Israel 15, Khabaung Street, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. tel: 515115, fax: 515116, email: info@ yangon.mfa.gov.il Italy 3, Inya Myaing Road, Golden Valley, Yangon. tel: 527100, 527101, fax: 514565, email: ambyang.mail@ esteri.it Japan 100, Natmauk Road, Yangon. tel: 549644-8, 540399, 540400, 540411, 545988, fax: 549643 Embassy of the State of Kuwait Chatrium Hotel, Rm: No.416, 418, 420, 422, 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe Tsp, Tel: 544500. North Korea 77C, Shin Saw Pu Road, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. tel: 512642, 510205, fax: 510206 South Korea 97 University Avenue, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 527142-4, 515190, fax: 513286, email: hankuk@ kore mby.net.mm Lao A-1, Diplomatic Quarters, Tawwin Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. tel: 222482, fax: 227446, email: Laoembcab@ mptmail. net.mm Malaysia 82, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 220248, 220249, 220251, 220230, fax: 221840, email: mwkyangon@mptmail. net.mm Nepal 16, Natmauk Yeiktha, Yangon. tel: 545880, 557168, fax: 549803, email: nepemb @mptmail.net.mm Pakistan A-4, diplomatic Quarters, Pyay Road, Yangon. tel: 222881 (Chancery Exchange) fax: 221147, email: pakistan@ myanmar. com.mm Philippines 50, Sayasan Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 558149-151, fax: 558154, email: p.e. yangon@gmail.com Russian 38, Sagawa Road, Yangon. tel: 241955, 254161, fax: 241953, email: rusinmyan@mptmail .net.mm Serbia No. 114-A, Inya Road, P.O.Box No. 943Yangon. tel: 515282, 515283, fax: 504274, email: serbemb@ yangon.net.mm Singapore 238, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 559001, fax: 559002, 559922, email: singemb_ ygn@_ sgmfa. gov.sg Sri Lanka 34 Taw Win Road, Yangon. tel: 222812, fax: 221509, email: slembassy. yangon@gmail.com, info@slembyangon.org, www.slembyangon.org Thailand 94 Pyay Road, Dagon Township, Yangon. tel: 226721, 226728, 226824, fax: 221713 United Kingdom 80 Kanna Road, Yangon. tel: 370867, 380322, 371852, 371853, 256438, 370863, 370864, 370865, fax: 370866 United States of America 110, University Avenue, Kamayut Township, Yangon. tel: 536509, 535756, 538038, fax: 650306 Vietnam Building No. 72, Thanlwin Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. tel: 511305, fax: 514897, email: vnemb myr@ cybertech.net.mm Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia No.287/289, U Wisara Rd, Sanchaung Tsp. tel : 01-536153, 516952, fax : 01-516951 UNITED NATIONS ILO Liaison Officer Rm (M1212~1220), 12 Fl-A, Traders Hotel. 223, tel: 242 393, 242811. fax: 242594. IOM 12th Flr, Traders Hotel, 223, tel: 252560 ext. 5002 UNAIDS Rm: (1223~1231), 12 Fl, Traders Hotel. tel: 252361, 252362, 252498. fax: 252364. UNDCP 11-A, Malikha St, Mayangone tsp. tel: 666903, 664539. fax: 651334. UNDP 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tel: 542910-19. fax: 292739. UNFPA 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tsp. tel: 546029. UNHCR 287, Pyay Rd, Sanchaung tsp. tel: 524022, 524024. fax 524031. UNIAP Rm: 1202, 12 Fl, Traders Hotel.tel: 254852, 254853. UNIC 6, Natmauk St., BHN tel: 52910~19 UNICEF 14~15 Flr, Traders Hotel. P.O. Box 1435, KTDA. tel: 375527~32, fax: 375552 email: unicef.yangon@unicef. org, www.unicef.org/myanmar. UNODC 11-A, Malikha Rd., Ward 7, MYGN. tel: 666903, 660556, 660538, 660398, 664539, fax: 651334. email: fo.myanmar@unodc.org www. unodc.org./myanmar/ UNOPS Inya Lake Hotel, 3rd floor, 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 951657281~7. Fax: 657279. UNRC 6, Natmauk Rd, P.O. Box 650, TMWE tel: 542911~19, 292637 (Resident Coordinator), fax: 292739, 544531. WFP 3rd-flr, Inya Lake Hotel, 37, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 657011~6 (6-lines) Ext: 2000. WHO 12A Fl, Traders Hotel. tel:250583. ASEAN Coordinating Of. for the ASEAN Humanitarian Task Force, 79, Taw Win st, Dagon Township. Ph: 225258. FAO Myanma Agriculture Service Insein Rd, Insein. tel: 641672, 641673. fax: 641561.

General Listing
ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS
Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe. tel: 544500. fax: 544400. Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. fax: 227995. Thamada Hotel 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon. tel: 243639, 243640, 243641. Traders Hotel 223 Sule Pagoda Rd. tel: 242828. fax: 242838. Winner Inn 42, Than Lwin Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 535205, 524387. email: winnerinnmyanmar @gmail.com Yangon YMCA 263, Mahabandoola Rd, Botataung Tsp. tel: 294128, Yuzana Hotel 130, Shwegondaing Rd, Bahan Tsp, tel : 01-549600, 543367 Yuzana Garden Hotel 44, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp, tel : 01-248944

ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS

Charted Certified, Certified Public Accountants. tel: 09-5010563. drtinlatt@matglobal.com

AIR CONDITION
Chigo No. 216, 38 Street (Upper), Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 373472

No.7A, Wingabar Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : (951) 546313, 430245. 09-731-77781~4. Fax : (01) 546313. www.cloverhotel.asia. info@cloverhotel.asia Confort Inn 4, Shweli Rd, Bet: Inya Rd & U Wisara Rd, Kamaryut, tel: 525781, 526872 Golden Aye Yeik Mon Hotel 4, Padauk Lane, 4th Word, Aye Yeik Mon Housing, Hlaing. tel: 681706. Hotel Yangon No. 91/93, 8th Mile Junction, Mayangone. tel : 01-667708, 667688. Inya Lake Resort Hotel 37 Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 662866. fax: 665537. Orchid Hotel 91, Anawrahta street, Pazundaung Township, Yangon, . Tel: 399930, 704740, 293261. E-mail: orchidhotel@myanmar. com. mm.

ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS (NAy PyI TAw)

The First Air conditioning systems designed to keep you fresh all day GUNKUL Engineer supply Co., Ltd. No.437 (A), Pyay Road, Kamayut. P., O 11041 Yangon, Tel: +(95-1) 502016-8, Mandalay- Tel: 02-60933. Nay Pyi TawTel: 067-420778, E-mail freshaircon@gkmyanmar. com.mm. URL: http:// www.freshaircon.com General 83-91, G-F, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 706223, 371906

Reservation Office (Yangon) 262-264, Pyay Road, Dagon Centre, A# 03-01, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 95-1-501937, 536255, 09-520-0926.
The Oasis Hotel (Nay Pyi Taw)

ASTROLOGER
Saya Min Thoun Dara Astrologer No(2), Maha Wizaya Pagoda North Stairway, Dagon Tsp. tel: 296184

Tel: 95-67-422088, 422099

ACCOMMODATION LONG TERM

No. 205, Corner of Wadan Street & Min Ye Kyaw Swa Road, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon. Myanmar. Tel: (95-1) 212850 ~ 3, 229358 ~ 61, Fax: (95-1) 212854. info@myanmarpandahotel .com http://www. myanmarpandahotel.com Panorama Hotel 294-300, Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 253077. PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 250388. fax: 252478. email: enquiry.prygn@ parkroyalhotels.com Website: parkroyalhotels. com. Savoy Hotel 129, Damazedi Rd, Kamayut tsp. tel: 526289, 526298, Seasons of Yangon Yangon Intl Airport Compound. tel: 666699. Sweet Hotel 73, Damazedi Road, San Chaung Tsp, Ph: 539152 Sedona Hotel Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin. tel: 666900. Strand Hotel 92 Strand Rd. tel: 243377. fax: 289880. Easy Expat Accommodation Specialist in Yangon. Tel: 09-730-33776. Eco-Apartment Fully Furnished Ga 21, Pearl Centre (Pearl Condo), Bahan Tsp. Tel: 557488. Espace Avenir No 523, Pyay Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 505213-222. Golden Hill Towers 24-26, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 558556. ghtower@ mptmail.net.mm. Marina Residence 8, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 6506 51~4. fax: 650630. MiCasa Hotel Apartments 17, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp. tel: 650933. fax: 650960. Sakura Residence 9, Inya Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 525001. fax: 525002. The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residence 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp. tel 951-256355 (25 lines). fax: 951-256360. email: gmer@ mptmail.net.mm, www. grandmeeyahta.com Yangon City Villa (Residence) Pyay Rd, 8 Mile Junction, MYGN, tel: 513101

BARS
50th Street 9/13, 50th street-lower, Botataung Tsp. Tel-397160.

Green Garden Beer Gallery Mini Zoo, Karaweik Oo-Yin Kabar.

Emergency Numbers
Ambulance tel: 295133. Fire tel: 191, 252011, 252022. Police emergency tel: 199. Police headquarters tel: 282541, 284764. Red Cross tel:682600, 682368 Traffic Control Branch tel:298651 Department of Post & Telecommunication tel: 591384, 591387. Immigration tel: 286434. Ministry of Education tel:545500m 562390 Ministry of Sports tel: 370604, 370605 Ministry of Communications tel: 067-407037. Myanma Post & Telecommunication (MPT) tel: 067407007. Myanma Post & Tele-communication (Accountant Dept) tel: 254563, 370768. Ministry of Foreign Affairs tel: 067-412009, 067-412344. Ministry of Health tel: 067-411358-9. Yangon City Development Committee tel: 248112. HOSPITALS Central Womens Hospital tel: 221013, 222811. Children Hospital tel: 221421, 222807 Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital tel: 543888. Naypyitaw Hospital (emergency) tel: 420096. Workers Hospital tel: 554444, 554455, 554811. Yangon Children Hospital tel: 222807, 222808, 222809. Yangon General Hospital (East) tel: 292835, 292836, 292837. Yangon General Hospital (New) tel: 384493, 384494, 384495, 379109. Yangon General Hospital (West) tel: 222860, 222861, 220416. Yangon General Hospital (YGH) tel: 256112, 256123, 281443, 256131. ELECTRICITY Power Station tel:414235 POST OFFICE General Post Office 39, Bo Aung Kyaw St. (near British Council Library). tel: 285499. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Yangon International Airport tel: 662811. YANGON PORT Shipping (Coastal vessels) tel: 382722 RAILWAYS Railways information tel: 274027, 202175-8.

INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com

Strand Bar 92, Strand Rd, Yangon, Myanmar. tel: 243377.fax: 243393, sales@thestrand.com.mm www.ghmhotels.com

Lobby Bar PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388.

mt QuiCk guide
February 27 - March 4, 2012
BEAUTY & MASSAGE
MYANMAR BOOK CENTRE Nandawun Compound, No. 55, Baho Road, Corner of Baho Road and Ahlone Road, (near Eugenia Restaurant), Ahlone Township. tel: 212 409, 221 271. 214708 fax: 524580. email: info@ myanmarbook.com
the

40
MyanMar tiMes
COLD STORAGE ENTERTAINMENT GAS COOKER & COOKER HOODS
24 hours Laboratory & X-ray No. 330, Ground Flr, Yangon Intl Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 218388, (951) 218292 Fax: (951) 218389

A Little Dayspa No. 475 C, Pyi Road, (Between Sweety Home & Shwe Kant Kaw Silk) Kamayut, Yangon. Tel: 09-431-28831.

La Source Beauty Spa 80(A), Inya Rd, Kamayut. tel: 512 380, 511 252. Sedona Hotel, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 666 900 My Way Diamond Condo, Bld(A), Rm (G-02), Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 52717, 09 51 70528

Building Materials

Est. 1992 in Myanmar Cold Storage Specialist, Solar Hot Water Storage Solutions. Tel: 09-504-2196, 09-73194828. E-mail: gei.ygn2@ gmail.com, glover2812@ gmail.com

Dance Lessons Mon-Fri 12:00 to 23:00. Sat-Sun 10 am to 8 pm Fun dancing Friday nights with Filipino musicians 4, U Tun Myat St, Tamwe. Tel: 01-541 550 The Uranium Dance Studio Pearl condo Bldg (C), 2nd flr, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 09731-42624, 09-514-0404.

Yangon : A-3, Aung San Stadium (North East Wing), Mingalartaungnyunt Tsp. Tel : 245543, 09-730-37772. Mandalay : Room No.(B,C) (National Gas), 35th St, Btw 80th & 81st, Chanayetharzan Tsp. Tel : 09-6803505, 02 34455, 36748, 71878.

DUTY FREE
Traders Hotel, 5th Floor Tel: 242828,Ext: Coreana. Sedona Hotel, Mandalay Ground Fl. Tel: 02-36488, Ext: Coreana Zamil Steel No-5, Pyay Road, 7 miles, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (95-1) 652502~04. Fax: (95-1) 650306. Email: zamilsteel@ zamilsteel.com.mm

GENERATORS

FITNESS CENTRE
Duty Free Airport Shopping Yangon International Airport Arrival / Departure. tel: 662676 (Airport). office: 90B/1, Inya Road, Kamayut Township. tel: 512534, 500143-5. Espace Avenir 523, Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Tel : 505214, 505222 FIT Club - Rm 101~3, Marina Residence, 8, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Tel : 650634, 650651 Ext:102 Parkroyal Fitness & Spa Parkroyal Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. Tel: 250388. Winning Way No. 589-592, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Yangon-Pathein highway Road. Hlaing Tharyar tsp. Tel: 951645178-182, 685199, Fax: 951-645211, 545278. e-mail: mkt-mti@ winstrategic.com.mm

Qi Foot Spa At Inya Lake Hotel, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: +951-662866, 662857 Ext: 1725

24 hours Cancer centre No. 330, Yangon International Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 218388, 218292 Fax: (951) 218389

SR 22/1, Next to the Pearl Shopping Centre, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. tel: 544 297, 549 527, 700 777 , fax: 558 044. email: eros@ mptmail.net.mm. www.erosspa.com

CAFS

EDUCATION CENTRE
Zen Wellness Care No.62 (A), Room-3, Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: +951-252939. La Brasserie (International) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel : 250388. MHR Business & Management Institute 905, 9th floor, Modern Iron Market(Thanzay Condo) Lanmadaw St. tel: 707822. NELC (Nelson English Language Centre Young Learner & Adults No 53, Dhamayon Street, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tsp. tel: 534287 NLEC 82 Anawrahta Rd, Corner of 39 St, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 250225. RV! Centre Yangon Tel: 535433, 541886, 242410, 250388 Ext: 333. email: ask@rvcenre.com.sg The British Council 92, Strand Rd, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 254658.

HOME FURNISHING

BATTERY
Lemon Day Spa No. 96 F, Inya Road, Kamaryut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 514848, 09-732-08476. E.mail: lemondayspa.2011 @gmail.com Saw Peter Foot Reflexology Oil Massage, Body Massage, Foot Massage. Any time you want at your place. Tel : 09-518-8047.

Mr. Betchang No.(272), Pyay Rd, DNH Tower, Rm No.(503), 5th flr, Sanchaung Tsp, Tel: 095041216 The Yangon GYM Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. Traders Health Club. Level 5, Traders Hotel Yangon#223 Sule Pagoda Rd, Tel: 951 242828 Ext: 6561

22, Pyay Rd, 9 mile, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 660769, 664363. Home Plus Trading Co., Ltd. No. 457, Aung San Stadium, Mingalartungnyunt Tsp. tel: 394888. Fax: 393008.

24 hours Medical centre No. 330, Ground Flr, Yangon Intl Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. 24 hour Call Centre : (951) 218 445 Clinic : (959) 4921 8159 Office : (951) 218 446 Fax : (951) 218 389 www.leomedicare.com
Shimmering Gold Services Co., Ltd.
VICTORY FOR LIFE

BANGKOK, THAILAND

ISO 9001:2008 (QMS)

Proven Technology Industry Co., Ltd. No. FS 14, Bayintnaung Rd, Shwe Sabai Yeik Mon, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 951-951-701719~20, 527667, 531030, 531041, 530694. Fax: 527667, 531030. http//www. toyobatterymyanmar.com.

INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com Traders Caf Traders Hotel, Yangon. #223, Sule Pagoda Rd. Tel: 242828 ext: 6519

HEALTH SERVICES

FLORAL SERVICES

CHOCOLATE

81, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 548022, 542979, 553783, 09-8030847, 09-730-56079. Email: asiapacific. myanmar@gmail.com.

VEJTHANI MYANMAR REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE No.125(C), West Shwe Gon Dine Road, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar. 01-3449977. Hot Line: 09-507-1111, 01-555448, 555998. vejthani@myanmar.com.mm www.vejthani.com

LEGAL SERVICE
U Min Sein, BSc, RA, CPA.,RL Advocate of the Supreme Court 83/14 Pansodan St, Yangon. tel: 253 273. uminsein@mptmail.net.mm

Inya Day Spa

BOOK STORES

ELECTRICAL

16/2, Inya Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 537907, 503375.

Room - 4021, 3rd Floor, Taw Win Centre. Ph: 8600111 (Ext:4021), 09-803-2581.

Innwa Book Store No. 246, Rm.201/301, GF, Pansodan Street (Upper Block), Kyauktada Tsp. Tel. 389838, 243216, 374324, 514387

G-A, Ground Floor, Pearl Center, Kabaraye Pagoda Road, Yangon. Tel: 09 500 6880 Email: chocolateheaven. sale@gmail.com

Est. 1992 in Myanmar Electrical & Mechanical Contractors, Designers, Consultants. Tel: 09-504-2196, 09-73194828. E-mail: gei.ygn2@ gmail.com, glover2812@ gmail.com

Floral Service & Gift Shop No. 449, New University Avenue, Bahan Tsp. YGN. Tel: 541217, 559011, 09-860-2292. Market Place By City Mart Tel: 523840~43, 523845~46, Ext: 205. Junction Nay Pyi Taw Tel: 067-421617~18 422012~15, Ext: 235. Res: 067-414813, 09-49209039. Email : eternal@ mptmail.net.mm

Agent Office, 5th Floor, Junction Centre (Maw Tin), Lanmadaw Township, Yangon. Myanmar. Ph: 09-731-56770, 09-5117584, Fax: 01-516313, myanmarmeditour@gmail. com Bumrungrad Intl Rm 238, Summit Parkview Hotel, Dagon Tsp. tel: 723999, 211888. Ext: 8238.

MARINE COMMUNICATION & NAVIGATION

Floral Service & Gift Centre 102(A), Dhamazaydi Rd, Yangon.tel: 500142 Summit Parkview Hotel, tel: 211888, 211966 ext. 173 fax: 535376.email: sandy@ sandymyanmar.com.mm.

Top Marine Show Room No-385, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 01-202782, 09-851-5597

Foral Service & Gifts shop No.2, Corner of Khay Mar St & Baho Rd (Near Asia Royal Hospital), Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. email: yangonflorist@ myanmar.com.mm. Tel: 01-510406, 09-73184714.

No. 365/367, Bo Aung Kyaw st (Upper), IHBC, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 392484 , 389824, 09803-0166. Fax: 392590. Email: radiant.aesthetics @gmail.com. Web: www. kembanganradiant.com

MARKET RESEARCH

MMRD Research BLDG C, New Mingalar Market, 10-story BLDG, 8 & 9 flr, Coner of Mill St & Bandanyadala St, Mingalar Taungnyunt Tsp. Tel: 200326, 200846, 201350. Fax: 202425.

FOAM SPRAY INSULATION

Acupuncture, Medicine Massage, Foot Spa Add:No,27(A),Ywa Ma Kyaung Street, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 01-511122, 526765. Piyavate Hospital (Bangkok) Myanmar Represent ative (Head office) Miba Gon Yee Business Group, No.506, 5th-fl, Yuzana Twin Tower, (No.8, Pangyan Tower) Cor of Dhama Zedi & Bargayar Rd, SCHG Tsp. Tel: 500600, 500800, 500900. Fax: 539799. hotline: +9595018777. piyavate@ myanmar.com.mm www.piyavate.com PHIH-Specialist Clinic FMI Centre (4th Floor) #380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Tsp. tel: 243 010, 243 012, 243 013

Media & Advertising

Foam Spray Insulation No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazuntaung Road, Pazuntaung Tsp, Yangon. Telefax : 01-203743, 09730-26245, 09-500-7681. Hot Line-09-730-30825.

FURNITURE
NatRay Co., Ltd. Rm 807, La Pyayt Wun Plaza. tel : 01-370833, 370836

Intuitive Design, Advertising, Interior Decoration Corporate logo/Identity/ Branding, Brochure/ Profile Booklet/ Catalogue/ Billboard, Corporate diary/ email newsletter/ annual reports, Magazine, journal advertisement and 3D presentation and detailed planning for any interior decoration works. Talk to us: (951) 430-897, 553-918 www.medialane.com.au 58B Myanma Gon Yaung Housing, Than Thu Mar Road, Tamwe, Yangon.

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the

mt QuiCk guide
February 27 - March 4, 2012
SCHOOLS
Black Canyon Coffee & International Thai Cuisine 330, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 0980 21691, 395052. email: blackcanyon@yangon. net.mm. 22, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel 541997. email: leplanteur@ mptmail.net.mm. http://leplanteur.net Kangaroo Child Care 55, Aung Min Gaung 1st Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 501 568, 09 504 7732. Streamline Education 24, Myasabai Rd, Parami, Myangone Tsp. tel: 662304, 09-500-6916. No.35(b), Tatkatho Yeik Mon Housing, New University Avenue, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 951-549451, 557219, 540730. www.yangon-academy.org City Mart (78th Brahch-Mandalay) tel: 02-71467~9. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) IKON Mart IKON Trading Co., Ltd. No.332, Pyay Rd, San Chaung P.O (11111), Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 95-1-535783, 527705, 501429. Fax: 95-1-527705. Email: salesikon@myanmar.com.mm Ocean Supercentre (North Point ), 9th Mile, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 651 200, 652963. Pick n Pay Hyper Market Bldg (A,B,C), (14~16), Shwe Mya Yar Housing, Mya Yar Gone St, Mingalartaungnyunt Tsp. Tel: 206001~3, Fax: 9000199 Sein Gay Har 44, Pyay Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 383812, 379823. Super 1 (Kyaikkasan) 65, Lay Daunt Kan St, Ph: 545871~73 Super 1 (Shwe Bonthar) 397, Bogyoke Aung San St, Pabedan. Ph: 250268~29 Victoria Shwe Pone Nyet Yeik Mon, Bayint Naung Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel : 515136. Bldg No. 12, Yangon Intl Compound, Ahlone Road. Tel: 09-431-85008, 09-731-60662. sales@corrianderleaf.com TB Bar & Restaurant The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residences (2nd Flr), Bogyoke Aung San Rd. Tel: 385101, 256355. ASIA Language & Business Academy (All classes are taught by native English-speaking teachers), No-66, Shwedagon Pagoda Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel:+95-1376236, 376314, 384055. http://www.alba-edu.com

MyanMar tiMes

PLEASURE CRUISES

Moby Dick Tours Co., Ltd. Islands Safari in the Mergui Archipelago 4 Days, 6 Days, 8 Days Trips Tel: 95 1 202063, 202064 E-mail: mobydicktours@ gmail.com. Website: www. moby-dick-adventures.com

Road to Mandalay Myanmar Hotels & Cruises Ltd. Governors Residence 39C, Taw Win Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. tel: (951) 229860 fax: (951) 217361. email: RTMYGN@mptmail.net.mm www.orient-express.com

No.430(A), Corner of Dhamazedi Rd & Golden Valley Rd, Building(2) Market Place (City Mart), Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 01-523840(Ext-309), 09-73208079. Eugenia 47, Manawhari Housing, Baho Rd. Tel: 227346. Feel Myanmar Foods 124, Pyi Htaung Su Yeik Thar St. Tel: 725736.

No.168 (C), Dhamazedi Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon. Ph: 09-731-85168, 09-731-78946

SOLAR SYSTEM
Horizon Intl School 25, Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, tel : 541085, 551795, 551796, 450396~7. fax : 543926, email : contact@horizonmyanmar. com, www.horizon.com ILBC 180, Thunandar 9th Lane, Thumingalar Housing, Thingungyung.tel: 562401.

PAINT

No.5, U Htun Nyein St, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 656611, 09-431-35406. Email: info@ mesamisyangon.com Monsoon Restaurant & Bar 85/87, Thein Byu Road, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 295224, 09-501 5653.

The Ritz Exclusive Lounge Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Ground Floor, Tel: 544500 Ext 6243, 6244

The Brightest AC CFL Bulb 21, 9th street, Lanmadaw Tsp. Ph: 212243, 216861, 216864. spsolarstation@gmail.com www.spsolarstation.com

STEEL CONSTRUCTION

TOP MARINE PAINT No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 09-851-5202

REMOVALISTS

Italian delicatesse & Ice-cream No.150, Dhamazadi Rd, Bahan Tsp. (Monunent Book Shop) Open Daily 9:00am to 7:00pm. Italian Ice-cream, Pasta, Pizza & Bar (2) G/F, City Mart, Myaynigone Centre. tel : 508469, 508470 ext. 113 Open Daily 9:00am to 10:00pm.

No. 105/107, Kha-Yae-Bin Road. between Pyi Daung Su Yeik Tha (Halpin) and Manawhari Road/Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp. Tel/Fax: 538895, Tel: 09730-29973, 09-540-9469.
padonmar.restaurant@ gmail.com. www.myanmarrestaurantpadonmar.com

Tiger Hill Chinese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6253 Traders Gourmet Corner Level 1, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel : 242828 ext : 6503 Traders Gallery Bar Level 2, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242 828. ext: 6433 Traders Lobby Lounge Level 1, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242 828. ext: 6456

ILBC IGCSE SCHOOL No.(34), Laydauntkan Road, Tamwe Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 542982, 545720, 549106,545736,400156 Fax: 541040 Email: info@ilbc.net.mm www.ilbcedu.com ISM Intl School W 22/24, Mya Kan Thar Housing, Hlaing Tsp. tel:530082, 530083. International School Yangon 20, Shwe Taung Kyar St, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 512793.

PEB Steel Buildings 60 (A), Halpin Road, Yangon. Tel: 01-218223, 218224. Fax: 218224. marketing@pebsteel.com. mm www.pebsteel.com.mm

TRAVEL AGENTS

SUPERMARKETS
Asia Light 106, Set Yone Rd.tel: 294074, 294083. Capital Hyper Mart 14(E), Min Nandar Road, Dawbon Tsp. Ph: 553136. City Mart (Aung San Branch) tel: 253022, 294765. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (47th St Branch) tel: 200026, 298746. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Junction 8 Branch) tel: 650778. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (FMI City Branch) tel: 682323. City Mart (Yankin Center Branch) tel: 400284. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Myaynigone Branch) tel: 510697. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Zawana Branch) tel:564532. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Shwe Mya Yar Branch) tel: 294063. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Chinatown Point Branch) tel: 215560~63. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Junction Maw Tin Branch) tel: 218159. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Marketplace) tel: 523840~43. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm)

Asian Trails Tour Ltd 73 Pyay Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 211212, 223262. fax: 211670. email: res@ asiantrails.com.mm Htoo Travels 209/c, first flr, Shwe Gonedaing Rd, Bahan. Tel: 548554, 548039. Sun Far Travels & Tours 27, Ground flr, 38th st, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 380888.

Crown Worldwide Movers Ltd 790, Rm 702, 7th Floor Danathiha Centre, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Lanmadaw Township. tel: 223288, 210 670, 227650. ext: 702. fax: 229212. email: crown worldwide@mptmail.net.mm

House of Memories Piano Bar & Restaurant Myanmar Cuisine & International Food 290, U Wizara Rd, Kamaryut Tsp, Yangon. tel: 525 195, 534 242. e-mail: houseofmemories 9@gmail.com

Schenker (Thai) Ltd. Yangon 59 A, U Lun Maung Street. 7 Mile Pyay Road, MYGN. tel: 667686, 666646.fax: 651250. email: sche nker@mptmail.net.mm.

INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com

Pansweltaw Express Cafe: 228, Ahlone Rd, Ahlone Tsp. Tel: 215363 (1)-Rm-309, 3rd flr, Ocean, East Point Shopping Center, Pazundaung Tsp. Tel: 397900 Ext: 309. (2)G-Flr, Ocean North Point Shopping Center. Tel:652959, 652960, Ext: 133. www.pansweltaw.com E-mail: pansweltaw@ myanmar.com.mm

Admissions Office: No. 44, Than Lwin Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 535433, 09-850-3073. Email: rviacademygn@ rvcentre.com.sg

WATER HEATERS

Phoenix Court (Chinese) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388. Royal Garden Nat Mauk Road, Kandaw Gyi Natural Park, Bahan Tsp. tel: 546202

Bo Sun Pat Tower, Bldg 608, Rm 6(B), Cor of Merchant Rd & Bo Sun Pat St, PBDN Tsp. Tel: 377263, 250582, 250032, 09-511-7876, 09-862-4563.

1. WASABI : No.20-B, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp,(Near MiCasa), Tel; 666781,09-503-9139 2. WASABI SUSHI : Market Place by City Mart (1st Floor). Tel; 09-430-67440 Myaynigone (City Mart) Yankin Center (City Mart) Junction Mawtin (City Mart)

95, Anawrahta Rd. Tel:296552, 293754. 336, Pyay Rd, Sanchaung Tsp. Tel: 526456. New University Avenue, 551521, 551951, 553896. U Wisara Rd, Tel: 524599, 501976.

The Global leader in Water Heaters A/1, Aung San Stadium East Wing, Upper Pansodan Road. Tel: 251033, 09-730-25281.

Same as Rinnai Gas cooker and cooker Hood Showroom Address

Water Heater

WEB SERVICES

RESTAURANTS

Kohaku Japanese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6231

Shiki-Tel (Japanese) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388.

24 hours open. 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon Tsp, inside Thamada Hotel. tel 243640, 243047, Ext: 32.

Kandawgyi (Royal Lake) Park, Yangon. (opposite of Eye Hospital) Ph: 556837, 556838. Fax: 556875. E-mail: whitericeyangon@gmail.com www.whiterice-myanmar. com

Enchanting and Romantic, a Bliss on the Lake 62 D, U Tun Nyein Road, Mayangon Tsp, Yangon

Lunch/Dinner/Catering 555539, 536174

Tel. 01 665 516, 660976 Mob. 09-512-7795 operayangon@gmail.com www.operayangon.com

Signature Near U Htaung Bo Round, about Bahan Tsp. tel: 546488, 543387. Sky View Restaurant No. 255, Rm 1504, 15 Flr, Olympic Tower, Bo Aung Kyaw Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Tel : 386539, 392886.

LANGUAGE
Bilingual Language Centre Teaching Myanmar to Non-Myanmar No.7 (Gournd Floor), Thu-Kha-Main Street, Myaynigone, San Chaung. Tel: 09-500-6431, nyalinphyu@gmail.com

Yangon International School Fully Accredited K-12 International Curriculum with ESL support No.117,Thumingalar Housing, Thingangyun Township, Yangon. Tel: 578171, 573149 www.yismyanmar.net Yangon International School New Early Childhood Center Pan Hlaing Golf Estate Housing & U Tun Nyo Street, Hlaing Thar Yar Township, Yangon. Tel: 687701, 687702

World-class Web Services Tailor-made design, Professional research & writing for Brochure/ Catalogue/e-Commerce website, Customised business web apps, online advertisement and anything online. Talk to us: (951) 430-897, 553-918 www.medialane.com.au 58B Myanma Gon Yaung Housing. Than Thu Mar Road, Tamwe, Yangon.

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Beaten United edge into last 16

By Ian Whittell MANCHESTER, United Kingdom Manchester United endured a nervous second half against Ajax Amsterdam losing 2-1 at Old Trafford on February 23, but advancing to claim a place, alongside neighbours Manchester City, in the Europa League last 16. The Premier League champions will face Spains Athletic Bilbao in the next round after Javier Hernandezs early goal was enough to help ensure United advanced via a narrow 3-2 aggregate scoreline. Aras Obiliz pulled a goal back for the Dutch visitors before half-time and, mindful of a costly home collapse against FC Basel in the Champions League earlier this season, United briefly looked under pressure. However, Ajax only managed to claim one of the two goals they needed to win the tie on away goals, an 86th minute header from six yards by defender Toby Alderweireld from an Ozbiliz free-kick. Comfortably ahead from the first leg, Sir Alex Ferguson had nonetheless named a strong line-up, one which took the lead after only five minutes. Park Ji-Sung, named captain for the night, two days out from his 31st birthday, intercepted the ball on the halfway line and his pass to Dimitar Berbatov was moved on to Hernandez who made short work of beating Alderweireld and planting the ball past Kenneth Vermeer. It was an electrifying start from the Premier League champions who had already tested Vermeer through an early Nani shot that the goalkeeper parried away from his goal. The Dutch had their moments in the first quarter of the game Christian Eriksens effort was deflected behind, Miralem Sulejmani shot over from 25 metres, Siem de Jong shot well wide and David de Gea saved acrobatically from Nicolas Lodeiros attempt on the turn. But, as they had during throughout the first leg in Amsterdam, United looked capable of adding to the goals

India asks should Tendulkar follow Ponting?

By Kuldip Lal NEW DELHI Indias cricket greats have begun talking about a topic that was considered unthinkable a year ago Sachin Tendulkars retirement from the sport. Or, at least, the need for the record-breaking batsman to quit one-day international cricket to prolong his test career. The debate has intensified after Tendulkars contemporary Ricky Ponting was forced by Australias selectors to bow out of ODIs this week. Ponting retired from the shorter format after being dumped from the ongoing triseries, but vowed to fight on in the test side. Some want the Indian selectors to be just as ruthless and end Tendulkars one-day career. The Hindustan Times, discussing Pontings axeing, hoped that Indian cricket chiefs would learn from the no-nonsense approach shown by the Australian management. Indian cricket set-up needs to take a cue from its Australian counterparts when it comes to pushing the seniors out, the paper wrote. If they have to take a tough call looking at the future of the team, the time is now. Former World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev agrees that it is time to ponder hard choices for Tendulkar, despite the adulation the Little Master still commands across India. Maybe his time has come, Kapil said on the Headlines Today news channel. Every player has his time. Age is not on his side as it was earlier. Tendulkar, who turns 39 in April, is not only the worlds leading batsman in both the test and one-day formats, but also the longestserving international cricketer, having made his debut in 1989. Fans have been left on tenterhooks as Tendulkar, who has scored a record 51 test and 48 one-day centuries, struggles to reach the unprecedented milestone of 100 international hundreds. His form has turned indifferent in the tri-series in Australia, where he has managed just 90 runs in five games at an average of 18. Former captain Sourav Ganguly, who played alongside Tendulkar from 1992 to 2008, said his old teammates decision to pick and choose one-day matches was costing India dear. Sachin has to ask himself whether its helping him as a one-day player or if its helping the Indian team, Ganguly told Headlines Today. If Sachin cant get an answer to these questions, he has to go. AFP

Manchester Uniteds forward Javier Hernndez (right) scores the opening goal during the UEFA Europa League match against Ajax at Old Trafford on February 23. Pic: AFP column. In the 15th minute, Hernandez selflessly tried to pick out Berbatov, rather than take a shot himself, which allowed Jan Vertonghen to recover and intercept. Rafael, in an advanced position from his right-back berth, drove a shot too close to Vermeer from the edge of the area and Berbatov attempted to find Hernandez with a pass across the area when it looked far more advisable to try a shot himself. The Ajax fans, in good voice despite their teams imminent exit from the competition, incited the anger of the home supporters by chanting the name of their former favourite Luis Suarez, the Liverpool player who has been embroiled in a high-profile race row with Uniteds Patrice Evra this season. Phil Jones was unable to prevent Ajax equalising through Ozbiliz after 38 minutes. Sulejmanis header was turned into the area by Lodeiro, with Jones only managing to half clear the ball, returning it to the feet of Ozbiliz who swiftly placed it past de Gea into the bottom left-hand corner from 28 metres. Cleverley attempted to restore the three-goal aggregate cushion with a 30 metre shot that Vermeer cleared with a diving, two-fisted punch. The goal breathed life and belief into the Dutch side who sensed a degree of nervousness in the United ranks. Sulejmani began to exert an increasing influence on the game with one cross causing anxiety as Fabio slipped in clearing it, then seeing a shot hitting a defender and flying to safety. Eriksen made good progress in the area and pulled back for Lodeiro who lifted a shot over from 12 metres before Sulejmani created an opening for goalscorer Ozbiliz who saw his shot strike Rafael. Closest yet to a second goal, de Jong met Eriksens left-wing corner with a well-directed near-post header which de Gea saved superbly, tipping the ball over his bar one-handed. United brought on veteran Paul Scholes in an attempt to nullify the Ajax threat and the tactic seemed to work with the visitors possession and chances drying up. Instead, Nani might have put the outcome beyond all doubt when he cut in from the left and hit the crossbar with a tremendous left-foot shot from 22 metres and substitute Danny Welbeck broke forward promisingly only to produce a disappointing cross that was easily cut out by a defender. AFP

Indias new star-studded league postponed

NEW DELHI A new football league in the Indian state of West Bengal featuring semiretired world stars has been postponed after encountering many problems, organisers said on February 22 without elaborating. The franchise-based Premier Soccer League (PLS), based along the lines of crickets popular Indian Premier League, was due to be played across six venues in West Bengal from March 24-May 6. Former Argentina star Hernan Crespo, Italys World Cup-winning captain Fabio Cannavaro, Robert Pires of France and Englands Robbie Fowler were among the stars signed to play alongside districtlevel players. We will announce the new dates soon, said Utpal Ganguli, secretary of the Indian Football Association, the name of the body running the sport in West Bengal. There are many problems which need to be sorted out. We are confident the tournament will be held in West Bengal. But for now, it is not starting on March 24. Ganguli declined to spell out the reasons for the delay, but opposition from state authorities and shortage of good quality pitches have been widely blamed. Six local business groups that bid successfully for a team to play in the PLS had splurged around US$7 million to buy the world stars at an auction last month. Crespo was picked up for $840,000 and Cannavaro for $830,000, while former Arsenal star Pires fetched $800,000, Nigerian Jay Jay Okocha got $550,000 and Fowler was sold for $530,000. The PLS has faced numerous hurdles since the ambitious project was announced a month ago. The All-India Football Federation (AIFF) refused to allow Indian players from the official domestic I-League to join, saying the PLS was essentially a statelevel tournament. On February 13, the AIFF temporarily suspended the organisers from taking part in FIFAs Transfer Matching System necessary for hiring foreign players because the six new teams had not been properly affiliated. The latest trouble appears to be the reluctance of the state government to release grounds owned by it for the PLS unless details of the tournament finances and the source of funding were made clear. The tournament was to be held in the state capital of Kolkata and five district towns of Howrah, Durgapur, Siliguri, Barasat and Haldia. AFP

Clothes are hung on a line to dry at the Rabindra Sarobar Stadium in Kolkata on February 13. Pic: AFP

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Late goals see plucky Basel and Marseille prevail

PARIS A goal deep in injury time by Ghanaian star Andre Ayew gave Marseille a 1-0 win over 2010 champions Inter Milan in their Champions League last 16 first leg and cast further doubt over Claudio Ranieris future on February 22. There was also a late goal in the nights other tie as FC Basel boosted their chances of a place in the Champions League quarterfinals with a shock 1-0 win over German giants Bayern Munich. Having beaten Manchester United 2-1 in Basel last December, the hosts pulled off another stunning victory when midfielder Valentin Stocker found the target in the 86th minute having been left unmarked by the Munich defence. Basel had the better of the opening 20 minutes after Bayerns French star Franck Ribery had given them a wake-up call when he broke the offside trap but his shot was turned round the post by the Swiss sides goalkeeper Yann Sommer. Basel, though, stormed back after that let-off and twice went agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock in a matter of minutes. First Aleksandar Dragovics header looked to be heading for the back of the net only for German number one Manuel Neuer to pull off a miraculous stop that still saw the ball bounce along the line but was hacked clear. Sommer was then called into action twice in the latter stages of the second-half saving smartly from impressive 19-year-old Austrian David Alaba and then Ribery. However, the deadlock was broken as the match entered its closing stages after Jacques Zoua threaded a superb ball to the unmarked Stocker inside the box and he made no mistake sliding the ball between Neuers legs. Marseille and Inter in contrast enjoyed a quiet first-half, though Marseille keeper Steve Mandanda did have to tip over a close range Diego Forlan effort. Goals looked even less likely from the visitors in the second-half as Ranieri sent on Yuto Nagatomo for Maicon at half-time. They should have taken the lead but Dejan Stankovic failed to get a good touch on the ball from only a few yards out and Mandanda was able to gather cleanly. They were left to rue the miss as Ayew headed home in the third minute of injurytime to give the 1993 champions some breathing space when they travel to Milan. AFP

FC Portos midfielder James Rodriguez (right) scores past Manchester Citys goalkeeper Joe Hart, only to be disallowed by a referee, during the UEFA Europa League match at the Etihad stadium in Manchester on February 22. Pic: AFP

City overpower holders Porto

By Ian Whittell MANCHESTER The presence of their former manager Andre Villas-Boas at Eastlands failed to inspire holders Porto as Manchester City eased into the last 16 of the Europa League with a 4-0 second leg win on February 22. Goals from Sergio Aguero, Edin Dzeko, David Silva and David Pizarro the last three in the space of nine minutes late in the second leg tie ensured a comfortable evening for City who won 6-1 on aggregate. The goal rush came against a Porto side who played the final 14 minutes with 10 men after the sending off of defender Rolando for a second yellow card. Even so it took Premier League leaders City just 19 seconds to extend their advantage when Aguero claimed the quickest goal in the Europa League this season. Argentinian defender Nicolas Otamendi lost the ball in a costly position, around the halfway line, and Nigel de Jong found Yaya Toure whose pass sent Aguero racing clear of the Porto backline. He took his chance brilliantly with a clinical finish into the bottom left-hand corner. Porto responded gamely as Joao Moutinho volleyed wide, Silvestre Varela headed at Joe Hart and defender Maicon ended a marauding right-wing run with a wayward centre across goal. But for all Portos possession, City looked far more dangerous and Silvas well-weighted through ball after 16 minutes sent through Yaya Toure whose progress was well-blocked on the edge of the area by goalkeeper Helton. City again came close with Silvas through ball forcing Helton to race from his area to try to intercept Aguero. The City forward skillfully rounded the goalkeeper but his shot from the edge of the area struck the Porto crossbar. Roberto Mancinis team, were content to withstand the modest pressure from Porto and play on the counter-attack, with Aguero involved in a pacy break before the interval which ended with a pass to Yaya Toure. Despite terrible initial control, the City midfielder eventually managed to re-connect with Aguero only for the goalscorer to flash a poor shot wide. Hulk saw a fierce free-kick deflected behind and Rolando volleyed over from six yards at the resulting corner as every passing minute left Porto facing a bigger obstacle. After the restart, Lucho Gonzalez poked wide from 18 yards, Hulks low cross-shot was spilled by the diving Hart who was relieved to see the ball travel to safety and James Rodriguez had the ball in the net after 57 minutes only for his goal to be ruled offside. City weathered that brief storm, however, and their second goal, in the 76th minute, put the outcome of the tie beyond all doubt. Aguero was the creator, holding the ball intelligently outside the Porto area and waiting for the overlapping run of substitute Dzeko who took the ball in his stride and finished expertly from 15 metres. Portos hopes of an unlikely recovery were hampered by the dismissal of Rolando who collected a second yellow card prior to the re-start for dissent. Silva added to what had become a rout six minutes from time when he turned the ball into an open goal after substitute Pizarro burst into the area and crossed selflessly from the right. Pizarro himself completed it, in the 86th minute, starting a move outside the area and collecting a poor touch-on from Dzeko before slotting past the helpless Helton. Hart ensured Porto did not even leave Manchester with a consolation goal, diving low to the foot of his post to keep out a shot from Hulk. AFP

Wernbloom gives CSKA hope with injury time equaliser

By Alexander Fedorets MOSCOW An injury-time goal on his debut by Swedish midfielder Pontus Wernbloom grabbed CSKA Moscow a 1-1 draw with Spanish giants Real Madrid on February 21 in their Champions League Last 16 first leg match. A goal from Reals Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo in the 28th minute put the nine-time European champions ahead and they looked set for their seventh successive win in this seasons competition until Wernbloom blasted the ball home. We conceded a goal to a schoolboys defensive mistake in the first-half and it cost us a goal, CSKA coach Leonid Slutsky said. But late in the second half we put more attacking players onto the pitch and levelled the scores. In general we played good in defence, while in attack we created several chances. Luckily, we managed to convert one of them. Real coach Jose Mourinho meanwhile expressed his satisfaction with the result despite the fact that his men missed out on victory. Anyway it is a good result for us in the away match, Mourinho said. But in the return match we will have no other choice but to win. CSKA are difficult opponents and tonight it was a difficult match. But they created few chances tonight, while we missed a pile of opportunities to increase our lead after the break. The hosts, supported by a 63,000 home crowd, started in lively fashion probing for weaknesses in the Real defence and created the first chance in the seventh minute. However, Alan Dzagoevs shot from eight metres went wide and was the hosts only opportunity in the first-half. Real replied with a long-range shot by Karim Benzema, which also went wide forcing Jose Mourinho into an early substitution as the Frenchman pulled a muscle and was replaced by Gonzalo Higuain in the 16th minute. CSKA keeper Sergei Chepchugov pulled off a great double save a minute later as first he beat away a Higuain effort and was able to get back up and deflect for a corner Sami Khediras follow-up. However, he was unable to prevent Ronaldo from opening the scoring, as he drilled home from inside the area after Zoran Tosic failed to clear Fabio Coentraos cross from the left. CSKA, who have never lost to a Spanish team before in European competition, poured forward seeking an equaliser but the visitors defence was solid and repelled the attacks. After the interval CSKA continued testing the visitors defence but failed again to create any serious threat to Iker Casillas lacking accuracy in the decisive moments. Meanwhile Real, who were relying on rapid and dangerous counter-attacks missed a host of chances to increase their lead before the one-hour mark. Real looked comfortable till the end but in the third minute of injury time Wernbloom had the CSKA fans on their feet as he sent the ball into the net from six yards, converting an Alexei Berezutsky cross from the left. Real of course remain the favourites, but Im starting to believe that anything is possible, said CSKA coach Leonid Slutsky. AFP

Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid chips the ball over CSKA Moscows goalkeeper, Sergei Chepchugov, during their first leg UEFA Champions League match in Moscow on February 21. Pic: AFP

tImESsPORt
Bikers conquer sand and hills
By Douglas Long FIFTEEN cyclists of robust constitution participated in a team mountain bike race held at Nga Su Taung village 40 kilometres north of Yangon on February 18, with first place taken by a mixed squad of Myanmar and expatiate competitors. Each of the five teams in the race consisted of three riders: one elite-level cyclist who was required to complete two laps of the 24-kilometre circuit, and two sport riders, each of whom rode one lap. The course consisted entirely of dirt roads and trails, with some short, steep climbs and several tricky downhill sections. Deep sand in some areas added to the technical challenges posed by the track. All the riders set off at the same time, with the lap times for each rider tallied at the end. The team with the lowest overall time was declared the winner. That team turned out to be the one consisting of elite Myanmar rider Mr Michael, a bodybuilderturned-cyclist who recently returned home after several years living in Singapore; Myanmar rider Ko Cho; and French cyclist Benjamin Rimbaud. The teams total time was 4 hours 27 minutes, a whopping 25 minutes faster than the secondplace team. Mr Michael also put in the fastest two laps of the event (1 hour 58 minutes), while the quickest time for a single-lap rider was 1 hour 4 minutes by Moe Min, who was part of the second-place team. The events organiser, Jeff Parry a consultant for Bike World bike shop in Yangon said his aim in putting on the race was to promote cycling in Myanmar and to get more people interested in the sport. Weve got a few good cyclists here, including Moe Min who has been riding for only eight months and has finished in a very good time, he said. Id say hes a potential candidate for Myanmar selection to take part in regional competitions and the SEA Games. Mr Rimbaud from the winning team said the sand was particularly difficult to deal with, but he found the race got easier as it progressed. It was quite tough for the first 20 minutes because there were many people all gathered together, and then after that there was more space so it was easier to manoeuvre. I also prefer uphill to downhill. When you are going downhill and you have people in front of you its hard, so when you have more space its more pleasant, he said. Elite competitor Tom How, who put in the second-fastest two-lap time (2 hours 5 minutes) but whose team could only manage third place, described the ride as really good fun. I know the course quite well, so it was a bit of an advantage. Its sandy this time of year but its a beautiful place to ride, around the lake, down the hill at the end, he said, adding: We should find ways to do [these events] more regularly.

February 27 - March 4, 2012

Napoli forward, Edinson Roberto Cavani, celebrates after scoring against Chelsea in their Champions League first leg match at the San Paolo stadium in Naples on February 21. Pic: AFP

Napoli heap misery on AVB

By Barnaby Chesterman NAPLES, Italy Napoli piled the pressure on Andre VillasBoas and put one foot in the Champions League quarterfinals with a 3-1 first leg victory over Chelsea at the San Paolo on February 21. Ezequiel Lavezzi scored a brace and Edinson Cavani added the third after Juan Mata had given the visitors the lead. Villas-Boas will now face more questions over his future with his side struggling in the league and hanging on in the FA Cup after a fifth round home draw with Championship side Birmingham City. A 2-0 win at Stamford Bridge in the last 16 second leg in three weeks time would be enough for the Londoners to progress but on this evidence Chelsea dont look capable of keeping a clean sheet against anyone. The absence through injury of captain and star centre-back John Terry was marked as David Luiz and Gary Cahill were made to look vulnerable and incapable of plugging any defensive gaps. And with Terry ruled out for the next six weeks for a knee operation news that was announced before the game Chelseas defence doesnt look likely to improve any time soon. Villas-Boas said he remained confident. Firstly its a negative result of course but one we are sure we can turn around at the bridge due to the amount of chances we had, he said. Being more efficient and clinical was the difference between the two teams, we both had about the same number of chances. It was a very open game for the Champions League but Napoli found that efficiency. We had chances but we paid a heavy toll with the chances that we created while Napoli made the most of their opportunities when they could. But thats not to take anything away from Napoli who were scintillating on the counter attack as they had been against Manchester City in the group stages although only mildly less inept than Chelsea at the back. Now well go and play for qualification in what will be a difficult game, well have to score in London, said Napoli coach Walter Mazzarri. Villas-Boas had picked a surprisingly attacking line up with Daniel Sturridge, Mata and Florent Malouda behind Didier Drogba. It made for an entertaining game but Chelseas defence was too often exposed. Gokhan Inler released Cavani after just nine minutes with Cahills slip giving the Uruguay forward time to control and shoot but Petr Cech came to his sides rescue. And yet it was largely against the run of play when Mata gave the visitors a 27th minute lead, helped in no small part by the pitch. After a neat passing move Sturridge tried to slip the ball inside to the Spaniard. Paolo Cannavaro was in the way but a bobble saw him slice his attempted clearance up in the air and Mata calmly let it drop and side-footed home from 15 metres. The leveller came on 38 minutes as Lavezzi sold Raul Meireles a huge dummy, opening up an acre of space outside the box from where he curled a precise finish around Cech. And in first half stoppage time Inler stroked the ball to the back post where Cavani got ahead of Cahill to brilliantly improvise by shouldering the ball in from close range. In the second half an awful mistake from Meireles who is suspended for the second leg after being booked allowed Cavani to slip in Lavezzi but the Argentine failed to hit the target. Chelsea were piling on the pressure but chances for Drogba, Mata, Malouda and Cahill came and went without the home goalkeeper being troubled and they were to pay for their wastefullness. The third Napoli goal came on 65 minutes as Luiz hesitated under a long punt forward and Cavani nipped in front of him, drew Cech and slid the ball left for Lavezzi to roll the ball past Cahill on the line. It could even have been worse for Chelsea in the final 10 minutes after Marek Hamsik got in behind the defence and crossed for Maggio but Ashley Cole somehow cleared his shot off the line. AFP

Curriculum reform must be teacher centred: experts

A teacher helps a student with their work. Myanmar Times archive

By Cherry Thein

n February 7, Lower House Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann presented a motion to parliament to raise all salaries of government employees to encourage clean government and prevent corruption. This echoes sentiments expressed by experts when it comes to the current malaise in the state education system, that supporting teachers needs to be at the centre of reform. Under President U Thein Sein, the government is pushing a reform agenda, evident in this months proposal to double the education budget, but reform needs to accurately address the main problems. The current state curriculum needs more than money poured into it, there needs to be an awareness of how to reform it, said an official from the Education Ministry, who asked not to be named. "I was impressed when the president spoke about reducing poverty in the country but you cant feed the poor everyday; a donation is just pouring water in the hole. For me the best way to lift the country out of poverty is by providing better access to education; encourage more people to believe in education," he said. In a country where standards were, more than 60 years ago the highest in the region, years of underfunding, restrictions and weak administration have resulted in a

poorly functioning system. U Aye Cho, chairman of the board from Yangon Institute for University Studies (YIUS), a pre-university level studies institute, said that the governments sole approach to education used to be creating universal access through subsidy. In the past, the government subsidised education, limiting what financial resources it had. They were unable to afford supporting additional learning programs, he said. The previous government began allowing private schools to set up and introduce international education standards by themselves. But this can create further disparity, where it is important for the government to address those problems within the state education system itself to help all students reach the same standards, said U Aye Cho. "If the curriculum was perfect then every student in Yangon and other Regions would pass their exams but why dont students from the countryside qualify under the same curriculum? There are many reasons but one central reason is a lack of teaching capacity," he said. "Teachers in the cities and countryside teach the same curriculum, so if neither can teach it then there is a problem with the curriculum that we need to change, but it is not like that. The problem is that the capacity of teachers is not the same between the cities and countryside," he said.

"To get qualified teachers, we must train them first. Without qualified teachers, we cant foster a bright new generation. And for a qualified generation, we cant be content with a rote learning based education because our children wont be able to compete with other countries. We need them to be more intelligent, diligent, creative and communicative," he said. "For me, a teacher must always be happy to learn new subjects. If they can teach a student to be happy while learning, the process of education will surely progress," he said. These comments are reinforced by teachers. Daw Su Su Aye, a teacher at a school in Sangchaung, Yangon, said that the current system of teaching does not support either students or teachers. "I cant say todays system is a teacher centred approach or student centred. Actually it is just rote learning. The only thing they have to do is sit their exams without digesting the subjects let alone insightful learning with reference to additional subjects," she said. They can get high marks for the subjects taught at school but lack life skills. This focus on simply passing exams is the result of years of bad habits from teachers and parents, as well as students, she said. Students themselves are often reluctant to ask

questions in class, which hampers their involvement and interest in the learning processes. "The whole situation surrounding these habits should be changed. I cant change that but I can change my students. "For me education is a never ending learning process. I have to reference related subjects when I teach social science like history and health so that I can inspire my students interest and to answer their questions," she said. Teachers need support through the freedom and skills to teach more than the curriculum, as "students are much more enthusiastic to learn not only subjects but also life skills," said the official from the education department. To achieve this, capacity building, training, scholarships and international exchange programs for teachers should be developed, he said. The official also said there should be more of an awareness of education and learning beyond the state system. When people say 'education' they think only of school and university but students should be more familiar with libraries, enrich their creativity using different references and build up their capacity, at the same time they have to develop their morality, he said. If someone cant get an academic education, they should be able to get

a professional education. If someone cant go to school, they should be able to get learning opportunities at home, he said. And this reinforces the issue of how to improve access to education for all though inclusive and supportive policies. For access to education, there is no law that stops children going to school, including children living with a disability, said U Hta Oke, managing director and founder of Eden Education Centre for the disabled. Everyone in the country has the right to gain an education regardless of age, religion or social status. The disabled also have that right to learn but awareness of and encouragement for education for the disabled is still weak, he said. U Hta Oke called for greater involvement between the state and private initiatives to improve educational initiatives. For better transformation, the private sector should have the chance to cooperate with the government in the education sector to strengthen policy, U Hta Oke said. An education-for-all policy should be effective even at the grassroots level, he said. There are many policies that boost higher education. I am impressed with that but it should be more practical. If they wish to make a new education system, listen to the voices and needs of the public, he said.

New education budget stimulates debate

By Sandar Lwin
HE importance of development choices was brought into focus this month as the government publicly debated a new budget for the first time in 40 years, including a significant boost to education and health sectors, while an international conference focusing on strategies for inclusive and sustainable development was also held in nay Pyi Taw. This new openness in the ability to discuss development issues received praise among local and international experts. It is important to recognise that budget allocations are not merely financial exercises, but also reveal the priorities that the government sets for the country, said Dr Aung Tun Thet, Senior Advisor at the Un Resident Coordinators Office to Myanmar. The budget, which was proposed to parliament from January 31 amounted to 13.04 trillion kyat for the year starting from April, an increase of 63 percent from the current years 7.98 trillion, according to parliament officials. Spending on education was expected to almost double to 617 billion, up from 310 billion, while health would see 368 billion kyat, four times the 92 billion from the last budget. It is difficult to say if five percent is enough. I raised this question with former Malaysian PM Mahathir when he visited Myanmar and he indicated that in Malaysia they spent 25pc on Education. Education and health are seen as key drivers to ensure development, evident in the fact that countries who have higher spending in social sectors achieve better human development, Dr Aung Tun Thet said. What is the goal of development? For me it is very clear, it is human development. The government has indicated a shift in thinking towards this view, with speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw, Thura U Shwe Mann stating that the education sector should be seen in a much larger context of human capital formation. It means that they [people] must

be healthy, educated and earn a decent standard of living. Education and more importantly learning and development is crucial if we want to see true change in Myanmar, Dr Aung Tun Thet said. Dr Zaw Oo, Director of the Faculty of Social Sciences at Chiang Mai University welcomed the governments decision to propose a significant increase in health and education. In order to promote development, he said that education is the most important foundation of our efforts. Human capital is the best asset a country should invest in; even though it will never be sufficient. This government obviously recognises the importance of such investment, and we should all

of the Administration for Basic Education no (1) said there is never a limit for education in the budget. But currently we have to implement the agenda with the budget that is given. However, others questioned solely focusing on the budget as questions remain about education policy and what kinds of reform where being discussed. Dr Thant Myint U said that while he welcomed the rise in education spending in the new budget, it was more important how the budget would be spent, as well as providing more opportunities for graduates in order to stop the brain drain of students looking for work in other countries. "While we need an education sys-

education sector first, he said. The conference itself focused on strategies that provide for inclusive and sustainable development, with special reference to education and health. Participants heard that the objective of inclusive, sustainable development rested on three pillars: economic development, social development and the protection and preservation of the environment. Speakers emphasised that achieving the objective would help to ensure that all Myanmar shared equitably in the nations wealth, had access to education and health care of a high standard and were encouraged to consume nutritious food, embrace healthy lifestyles and

Dr Aung Tun Thet encourage a sustained increase in the future. Speaking on the sidelines of the Development Policy Options conference, educational experts spoke to The Myanmar Times about the budgets attempt to boost education and the need for more investment. The education sector needs a powerful energizer to improve, that is the budget. I heard the budget allocation for education will be doubled. This is good news but of course I want more, said U San Lwin, headmaster of Sagaing Educational College. U Win, assistant director of the Department of Basic Education 1 said that It will only be possible to improve the education sector once the budget is increased, while U Aung Chein, Deputy Director General

Dr Zaw Oo tem that uses the budget effectively, we also need to create good jobs for those who are qualified," he said. Dr Tin Maung Maung Than, senior fellow and coordinator of the Institute of South East Asian Studies (ISEAS), Singapore echoed this saying that everyone appears to be focusing on the budget. Although it is not wrong, efficient utilisation is also important. At the moment I feel the education sector is opaque. I would like to know more about what they are doing in the education sector and what are the plans for the future. The 30 years education plan was supposedly being implemented, but I havent heard any more detailed information about that project. There may be good points in that project too. So I want transparency in the

Dr Thant Myint U to protect and preserve the natural environment. The key sectors in need of greater investment were education and health, said some speakers. They said the government needed to do more to significantly increase its budget allocations to these two sectors for the nation to develop a highly educated and healthy population necessary to contribute to a brighter future. The conference was held over four days from February 13 and brought together specialists from a range of institutions, organisations and backgrounds. They included academics from Asia, Britain and the United States, representatives from European Union countries, Un organisations and international non-government

organisations and Myanmar community-based organisations and senior officials from the Union and state and regional governments. The participants clearly welcomed the opportunity to discuss ways of implementing development concepts in Myanmar, with some highlighting the advantages of spurning strategies that focus too heavily on achieving GDP growth or on income-oriented development concepts. The downsides of pursuing such strategies included an unequal distribution of wealth and the widespread destruction of the environment. As well as highlighting the policy mistakes and weaknesses that their countries had encountered as a result of implementing such strategies, many speakers offered suggestions on how they could be avoided. Some speakers praised the Gross national Happiness concept embraced by the government of Bhutan. Referring to the early stages of the reform process launched by the Government headed by President U Thein Sein, many speakers said Myanmar had a valuable opportunity to avoid the pitfalls encountered by other countries at a similar stage of their development. For Myanmar, the timing is wonderful, said a speaker from an ASEAn member country. The conference closed with some acknowledging Myanmars enormous potential but were careful to stress the challenges that would need to be overcome for it to be realised. Our country is at an important juncture right now, Dr Zaw Oo told The Myanmar Times. Internally, the government is introducing reforms, externally we are also preparing to integrate ourselves with ASEAn by 2015. Our commitment to fulfil the millennium development goals by 2015 is also fast approaching. These are just a few benchmarks in our long-term endeavour to catch up with our neighbours. We need all capable people to realise these goals in a short period of time, he said.

New freedom for academic subjects offers improved teaching methods

By Aung Si Hein
S Myanmar embarks on a new democratic project of government, a crucial prerequisite is an education system that can support this process, as well as address the countrys much needed development. Democracy is a system of government based on wisdom and intellect. If democracy is to flourish in Myanmar, education is crucial, U Phyo Min Thein, coordinator of nLDs educational network, told The Myanmar Times. The education system in Myanmar has long struggled under heavy restrictions, poor administration and lack of funding. Universities regularly closed down or moved campuses during the 1990s, and many crucial subjects were not taught. But as the governments process of reform continues to take hold, the education sector is slowly seeing a greater freedom to teach previously restricted subjects, and bringing with it new approaches to teaching. A number of non-governmental educational institutes are now able to teach political studies as a discipline, such as Myanmar Egress and the nLDs Bayda Institute, established last year. Other, new subjects are also being intro-

Students study by candlelight in Rakhine State. Kaung Htet duced, including journalism, disaster prevention, environmental studies, and social conflict prevention studies through private institutes, such as Shalom Foundation as well as government institutes. We considered what kind of education was suitable to offer, and then we established Bayda Institute, said U Phyo Min Thein. Bayda institute extends the nLD's commitment to education. For years the nLD undertook social education projects in poor communities as part of its educational network. With greater freedom for its activities under the new government, the nLD set up the Bayda institute to train students in political science studies, social sciences, teamwork and leadership training. But even with greater freedom the nLD is enjoying under the new government, its attempts to legally register Bayda have not yet been granted by the government. U Phyo Min Thein said the nLD educational network also arranges seminars on disaster prevention and environmental studies because we are seeing such a significant impact on the countrys natural resources because of ongoing

exploitation. People have as yet little awareness of ecology and what this will mean in the future, he said. Bayda offers not just new subjects, but also provides a new approach to learning for students. A democratic style of education must not use rote learning methods for students. To change this, we need an education system to abide by the rules of learning, teaching, and responding, U Phyo Min Thein said. He said that by introducing new and relevant subjects for students to study, it helps students to match their studies to a preferred career path. Students should also be able to apply what they have learned. For example, at the moment you can see a science student working as a journalist." Another aspect of the reform process has seen gradual censorship leniency and greater press freedom in the local media industry, which has seen an influx of new journals to the scene. Journalism was not permitted as an academic subject in Myanmar for years, but in 2007 the government set up new journalism courses at the Yangon national Management College. I joined the journalism college because the media is important for our country and I wanted to work according to international standards, Aye Thin Zar Aung, a journalism student at the national Management College, said. Since it [media] is the fourth pillar as the government put it, it is essential for the other pillars [executive, jurisdiction, and legislation] to operate effectively., he added. said. Renewed growth in the sector however, has meant that demand for properly trained journalists continues to rise as companies attempt to establish international media standards. Most journals are still having to provide internal training for staff. The national Management collages initial three-year program was extended to four years, combining class studies with work placement training but to improve standards across the sector such training needs to develop further. Although we are provided with practical training in the college, there are many things lacking, said Kay Thi naing, another student of the journalism course. I do not understand when the teacher explains the parts of a camera on the blackboard because there is no camera at hand. They need more facilities, he said.

Language power is earning power

By Myo Lwin
HE importance of the English language has never been greater with ever increasing regionalization and globalization. English, as a global language, is crucial not only in academia, but also everything from business to diplomacy. While not yet a global city on the scale of new York, London, or Singapore, even in Mandalay, the idea that language power is earning power, is fully understood, according to U Khin Mg Soe, an English teacher. One of the best examples of this growing awareness is that language teaching is becoming a more lucrative business here, said U Khin Mg Soe, a lecturer at the privately owned Chindwin College. People now realise that foreign languages are powerful tools in their life, he said. Almost all international schools in Mandalay such

as ILBC, MCTA, and Horizon have English as their core curriculum. In our college, English is the medium of instruction. Students are offered various opportunities to improve and polish their language skills, said the lecturer. Students can enjoy the benefits of exposing themselves to foreign teachers and well-experienced local teachers who have a good command of the language. Students learning English at Chindwin College have unique access to audio-visual aids which makes learning more interesting and memorable, he said. Even in government institutions such as the Yangon University of Foreign Languages and Mandalay UFL, language learning is achieving popularity more than ever, he said. Improving English will be a key issue for Myanmar as it becomes increasingly involved with its regional neighbours.

Dr Chamnian Yosraj, president of Maejo University in Chaing Mai said English will be essential in many sectors as ASEAn transitions to a free trade community in 2015. There will be a lot of interactions among people within the area and English will become very useful, he told The Myanmar Times during a visit to Myanmar last month. The [Thai] government is now encouraging Thai people to speak English and have designated this year as an English Speaking Year, he said. The initiative aims to prepare Thailand to be a part of the ASEAn community in 2015 because the language is the main medium of communication among ASEAn countries, according to a Thai government statement. Also, the program hopes to raise Thai peoples awareness of ASEAn. The program will be initiated in schools and involve plenty of academic activities facilitating teachers and

Students browse a selection of books at International Langauge and Business Centre (ILBC) in Tarmwe township. Yadanar students with more opportunities to speak English and build their confidence in using it, the statement said. In Myanmar, there has not as yet been any official preparation for language training for the coming ASEAn Free Trade Area but the government is encouraging staff to improve their English language skills. Similarly, the hope is that more private education centres and businesses will spur greater English learning in the run up to 2015. This is evident in the imminent growth of the tourism industry. Employees of tourism companies are aware of the urgent need to improve their English language ability. Ma Aye Aye Mon, an 18-year old employee at Aureum Palace Resort by Inle lake, Shan state, said they have daily English language training. We have a manager who teaches us English every day. She focuses more on speaking. But I am not a very good speaker of English, said Ma Aye Aye Mon. Depending on the time available and the number of visitors, we learn English every day. Its continuous learning," she said. Realising the better opportunities working in the tourist sector, she said she had attended a seven-month English language course in nyaung Shwe township before joining the hotel three months ago. The English instructor and manager at the hotel said she was always learning the language from visitors. I teach English to my staff but I also learn from the visitors and can speak six different languages, said the manager.

Summer schools attract children with alternative teaching

By Noe Noe Aung

UMMER schools were originally set up in response to demand for greater English learning, but their freedom of curriculum has inspired innovative teaching methods that has students preferring to stay in the classroom to being outside in the summer holidays. Of course I want to play in summer. But I dont want to play all the time, I want to improve my English, said Ma Win Win Htet, a 12-year-old girl in Grade 8 at the Basic Education High School no 1 in Thingankyun township. There are now 20 private schools in Yangon, and the Ministry of Education is keen to see broader education initiatives divested into private entities. In summer school, the way we learn English is different from our school text books, she said. We are given exercises to think about. Its difficult and sometimes frustrating but it will help a lot when I go back to state school after the summer holidays, said Ma Win Win Htet. The perception that overzealous parents are pushing their children into more schooling, eager to improve their standard of education is

Children learn to use computers at Yangon International School (YIS) in Hlaing Tharyar township. Boothee a concern but doesnt always appear to be the case. Its not only my parents that want me to attend, I am also willing to join the summer English course, she said. Another student said that she isnt sure if she wants to join summer English class or not as she has regular classes during school time. I normally have English class over the weekend at nelson English Learning Center (nELC). In the summer I have to attend summer courses from Monday to Friday, 11-year old, Ma Myat noe Thwel a student from Basic Education High School no 2, Kamayut township, said. When I was in the lower levels I had more time to play. But as the level gets higher, my free time is less, she said. I think this year will be like last year. I will have to attend summer courses because my parents want me to; I am also interested, she said. The necessity for summer schools to provide an alternative learning approach for the children in their holidays has proved a success, say teachers. Daw Myat Su Khaing, vice-president of Glory Hope education centre in Lanmadaw township, said that there were increasing numbers of students wanting to join each year. We are getting more and more children in our summer courses. Most of the children are willing to attend the summer courses because they enjoy the interesting teaching methods, she said. They can sing, they can dance and they can learn many things by playing games together. We dont use any force, we just stimulate their willingness to learn by supporting their creative thoughts and ideas. Thats the key of informal education, said Daw Myat Su Khaing. In my own opinion, we cannot say a child is really clever just by getting good grades in school. We cant only rely on school lessons as around the world the arts and other activities are also considered important for a childs education. And this approach has a notable effect on the students. After the summer, children tend to be more confident, more active and smarter. They gain a broader knowledge base and also good social skills, she said. The open approach to teaching allows students from both state schools and private schools who have different

strengths and weaknesses to thrive. She said that most government school children are shy and weak in painting and English speaking but good at grammar, whereas private international school children tend to be weaker at grammar and knowing Myanmar history but better at speaking English. We try to balance and fulfil each weakness, said Daw Myat Su Khaing. Another 11 year-old girl, Melody, who attended a summer course at Total Learning Academy last year said the reason she wanted to join summer school was due to the interesting teaching methods they use. We have dancing and painting time. And we learn many things while we play games, she said. I am happy painting too. In the class, we have painting competitions. The teachers stick the winners painting up on the wall and award them, she said. And the growth of summer schooling seems to know no bounds in seeking to provide new initives for study. The RV Centre Myanmar has introduced a three week trip to new Zealand for 12 to 18 year-olds during the coming summer holidays. The centre said their students will get the chance to immerse themselves in English learning at Edenz College in Auckland, while having the opportunity to visit other educational facilities and other local sights in the country, the centre said in a statement. The students will also be able to meet other students from China, Brazil, South Korea, Japan, Pakistan, Thailand and Vietnam, it said.

Private education society aims to improve standards

By Ei Ei Toe Lwin
RIVATE sector teachers are currently trying to officially register the first Private Teachers Society, after the government enacted a Private Schools Law on December 2 2011, in order to support development of the education sector. Myanmar has long had an unregulated system of private tuition teaching that shadows the state education system, with parents looking to boost their childrens chances to pass their exams. This causes a number of problems as teachers seek to skew the situation in favour of supplement their low earnings. Conflicts are always occurring between us but there is no one to solve these problems. If MPTS can create unity, it will improve the private tuition sector, said U Min Htaik Aung, a teacher at Learners Choice tuition, Thanlyin township, Yangon Region. With groups such as the Myanmar Medical Association(MAA) and Myanmar Engineering Society(MES) already established, Dr Soe Win Oo, also known as Dr Bio, and chairman of the Myanmar Private Teachers Society (MPTS) felt there should also be a private teachers society to improve the private education sector. We're trying as much as we can for MPTS to emerge officially in order to develop the private education sector. We urge other teachers to par-

ticipate in our activities, said Dr Soe Win Oo. If we want to upgrade the education sector we must have unity and cooperation with the state sector. The most important point we need to do first is to upgrade the quality of private teachers as I think the teaching quality of private teachers is too low, said MPTS was first set up on 11 September 2011, bringing together members from around the country, organised around nine committees within different academic subjects. Its aims are to first improve the teaching quality of private teachers, to achieve greater cooperation and if any conflicts occur in the private sector, to solve them. Weve already had around 1000 members join around the country, they are not only well-

An NELC teacher conducts an English class in Yangon. Lwin Maung Maung finish the matriculation exams. We will teach them international teaching methods, said Dr Soe Win Oo. I welcome this society being set up and I think it can only support the improvement of private teachers . Those eachers who live in remote areas do not get the chance to attend capacity building programs and cannot receive up to date teaching methods. If they get the chance to join this society, they can attend knowledge sharing workshops and capacity building programs. They can share their experiences with their colleagues, said U Htay Liwn , Gone Htoo Shwe Sin Tuition in Mandalay Region.

If we want to upgrade the education sector we must have unity and cooperation with the state sector.
known private teachers in the cities, but also teachers from towns and villages are interested in our activities, said Dr Soe Win Oo. MPTS members are already doing activities such as open free teaching for poor students out of school time under the name Save our Students (SoS). Some have also opened camps for poor matriculation students in Bago Region and Yangon region. MPTS plan to hold capacity building programs in Yangon at the Leader Institute in April. We have invited 100 private teachers from rural areas and will start in April, after they

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Business, Computer, and Other Courses ACE Data Systems no. 50, 31st Street, Pabedan Township, Yangon. Ph: 204-009, 246-582, 652-270, 652-239. Email: ace@mptmail.net.mm KMD 55-57, First Floor, Seik-kan-thar Street, KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 249-264, 249-265 Website: www.kmd.com.sg Email: kmd-ygn@mptmail.net.mm MAA Professional Training Center (They have student loans and internship programs.) 337 Shwe Bon Tha Ye Yeiktha, Units 12 and 24, First Floor, Shwe Bon Tha Street, PBDn. Ph: 250-501, 250-502 Email: maa@mptmail.net.mm Management and Accountancy Training (MAT) 165 Shwe Bon Tha Street, Ward 4, PBDn, Yangon. Ph: 242-431, 241-713, 296-781. Email: Drtinlatt@mat.com.mm MCC Third Floor, Shwe Dagon Pagoda Rd., Theingyi Zay, Shed (C), Ward 2, PBDn, Yangon. Ph: 280-699, 243-758, 703-204. Email: mcc@mptmail.net.mm Thames Management Center no. 220-222 Botahtaung Pagoda Rd., KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 200-343, 203-188, 296-829. Email: bizcom@ue.com.mm

English
Take as many classes as you can. No single teacher/ place will give you all the knowledge you need to become proficient. A general rule of thumb is that plenty of exposure to the language is good. Below are just a few good places to start. There are so many other good schools that we cannot possibly list here. American Center Library 581, Merchant Street, KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 282-055. American English Center 69 (A) Room 24, First Floor, Yangon-Insein Road, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Ph: 640-225. Email: yobzar@mptmail.net.mm British Council, Cultural Center 78 Strand Rd., Corner of 40th Street, KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 256-290, 256-291, 254-658, 245-345. Cyberenglish Center Yangon Institute of Education, Pyay Rd., Yangon. Ph: 527075, 722932 Ext. 222 USIS Information Resource Center 14 Taw Win Rd., Dagon Township, Yangon. Ph: 223-106, 223-140 Y.E.S. Language Education Center 119 Bogalayzay Street, Botahtaung Township, Yangon. Tel: 245-821.

Informatics Computer Center no. 70 (B) Shwegonedaing Rd. Bahan, Yangon. Ph: 558-360, 706-740. no. 220-222 Botahtaung Pagoda Rd., KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 200-343, 703-181. Email: cm.mtilinf@ue.com.mm Nawarat Education (They have scholarships to go to UK.) 82, Third Floor, Anawrahta Street, Ward 8, KTDA, Yangon. Ph: 250225, 243974, 250150. Email: nayla@mptmail.net.mm

German
If you have a degree from an accredited university and pass the DSH, which is the German University Entrance Exam, you can work on your Masters or PhD. in Germany without paying any tuition. Dr. Kyin Pine 149 Third Floor, Lanmadaw Street, Ward 7, LMDW, Yangon. Ph: 245-785, 245-842. Email: AGE@mptmail.net.mm Hoshi Foreign Languages and Education Center 10, First Floor, Hledan Street, Ward 3, Kamayut Township, Yangon.

Education Consultation Services If you are totally clueless about education abroad but would like to get more information, you should consult these consultation services. Some of them are free of charge but some may ask for a small fee. The ones below have free consultation services. Overseas Studies Management Center no. 220-222 Botahtaung Pagoda Rd., Pazundaung, Yangon. Ph: 200-343, 203-188, 703-181. Unique Educare 150/C Dhamazedi Rd., Shwe Gone Daing West Ward, Bahan, Yangon. Ph: 526-340, 282-407, 524-640. Email: chitchit@mptmail.net.mm Source: finitesite.com/sanchaung2/myanmar

Japanese
Win Japanese Language School (They can advise you on studying in Japan with scholarship opportunities.) no. 278, Theinbyu Rd., Botahtaung Township, Yangon. Ph: 294-613 Email: winjapan@baganmail.net.mm Multi Japanese Language School by Mr. Seiichi Nakamura no. 11, 5th Floor, Seitta-thuka Street, Kyauk-myaung, Tamwe Township, Yangon. Ph: 540-721

Education Expenditure and Percentage Used in Basic Education Sector

350000 300000

Number of Higher Education Institutions under 13 Ministries in 2011

Sr. No 1 2 3 Education Health Science & Technology Defence Culture Forestry Agriculture & Irrigation Livestock Breeding & Fisheries Co-operatives Union Civil Service Board Religious Affairs Border Affairs Transport Total Ministry Number 64 15 61 5 2 1 1 1 5 1 1 2 2 161

No of schools, teachers under Basic Education

Number of Schools Primary school Pre primary school Middle school High school 41287 28968 6761 3163 2399

m million kyat

250000 Total Budget of MOE 200000 Budget for Basic Education 150000

4 5 6 7 8

Number of Teachers primary teacher Junior teacher Senior teacher

276180 184170 7398 26612

100000

9
50000

10 11

Number of Students Pre primary Middle High

8.2 Million 5.1 Million 2.3 Million 0.67 Million

0 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11 2011-12

12 13

Academic Year

Holocaust awareness lost in translation

By Myo Lwin
HE security guard at the only entrance to Yangon Universitys Diamond Jubilee Hall reported loudly into his cell phone: Its a German meeting. Many people are coming here, including the ones in cars with white number plates. Its the morning of January 27 and more than 1000 people have turned up for the International Holocaust Commemoration Day, which was being held for the third time in Myanmar. Recognising the need to raise awareness and to promote education about the Holocaust, the Ministry of Education organised the event in partnership with the United nations Information Centre and the embassies of Israel and Germany. The French Institute, British Council and American Centre also provided support. The photo exhibition was the most interesting aspect of the event, held on the third floor of the hall. Pictures depict the tragic events of the Holocaust how six million Jewish people were killed, how people resisted the nazis, how they were caught and executed alongside the harrowing testimonies of survivors. While the majority of the crowd was students from different universities under the ministry, there were also faculty members, Un representatives and diplomats. The students constituted the biggest portion because the main speaker was deputy minister for education, U Ba Shwe who gave a short speech describing the Holocaust and explained that citizens had a responsibility to not only remember the event but also draw lessons from the killing of six million Jewish people more than 60 years ago. Holocaust, or Shoah in Hebrew, is the name given to the 12-year period in which the nazis implemented their scheme to exterminate European Jewry. Beginning in 1933 when Adolf Hitler became chancellor of Germany, millions of Jews were subjected to humiliation, discrimination, slave labour, torture and death. Its one day 70 years ago when 10 German officials decided to annihilate Jewish people. One third of our people were annihilated, said the Israeli ambassador in Yangon, Mr Yaron Mayer. Of course, the legacy of the holocaust will live on in the minds of people throughout the world. But the term itself is still strange to many people here in Myanmar and even among some university faculty members who attended the seminar. I was a little curious as to

A representative of the Israeli embassy lights a candle next to a representative of the German embassy for International Holocaust commemoration day in Yangon on January 27. supplied how much the audience understood when a Jewish historian, Professor Dan Michman, gave an hour-long lecture on Why is the holocaust considered to be such a significant event? As the head of the International Institute for Holocaust Research and Incumbent of the najmann Chair of Holocaust Studies at Yad Vashem, he spoke in either a raised voice or a low voice. But in one corner of the hall, a few students could be seen taking a nap. I jotted down a few questions on a sheet of paper and passed it to a couple of students sitting next to me, asking them to answer only after the lecture had finished. However, they quickly began writing on the paper and returned it to me in about 15 minutes. A 19-year-old second-year geology student, Ma Theingi Moe Pwint, said she attended the event after hearing about it at her university. The nazis had tortured and slaughtered Jewish people in millions. I have read that they also burnt the books written by Jewish authors. It is not to be forgotten by the Jews, she answered on the paper. This is the first ever seminar I attended. As the speakers used English language, I did not catch up very much. But I know they are talking about the slaughter of Jewish people during World War II. I dont know much how to comment. But one thing I know is people should not bully not only to other people but also to animals. If someone bullies another one, he or she will be bullied one day. Another student enrolled in a geology honours course said during the session that she understood that millions of Jewish people were destroyed during World War II. The 21-year-old student said she could only understand the lecture to a limited extent but she had read extensively about the Holocaust. Another speaker at the event, Mr Oliver Bientzle, the deputy head of mission at the German embassy in Yangon, said at one point in his address that he was surprised and sad to see some young people wearing t-shirts with the swastika, the nazi insignia. Actually they did not realise what the symbol means, said Mr Bientzle. The discussions were followed by a candle lighting ceremony and screening of a short film. The last sentence in a pamphlet distributed by organisers at the event said it was incumbent on us to remember, not to forget the Holocaust. I would like to add that while events such as this are welcome, teenagers in Myanmar would be better-placed to comprehend these important topics if at least a partial translation can be provided. This does not apply only to the International Holocaust Commemoration Day ceremony. All international ceremonies require some degree of translation depending on the language proficiency of those in the audience.

10

Education helps improve awareness of disabilities, say experts

By Yamon Phu Thit
REATER awareness of disabilities through appropriate education is needed in order to improve the lives of disabled children as equal members of society, say experts. Understanding disability still has a long way to go in Myanmar. Disabled children suffer from a general lack of educational support, but equally demand remains low as parents often do not realise the benefits of educating their children. Greater cooperation among stakeholders is needed to change perceptions and raise the quality of life of disabled children, to help them independently manage their own life and ensure a brighter future. Rather than regard them as disabled, they need to be recognised as people who also have ability despite being disabled, said U Hta Oke, founder of Edan Care centre for disabled youth. As a human right they have the right to an education whatever ability they have to learn; they should have an education as members of society, he said. But it is because we believe in the notion that one person may be bad at doing one thing, but they may be good at doing another, we are able to support it, bring it out, he said. The challenge is to overcome the perception that disability is a disease that cant be healed, and instead teach independence by enhancing their natural ability, said Dr Tin Ma Phyu, programme head of new World, a training centre for disabled youth. Its not something that can

Disabled students learn with teaching aids at a centre in Yangon. Myanmar Times archive be cured, but providing the right teaching is effective, she said. The main aim is to enable them to independently manage their life. When their parents are gone they will have to deal with their problems by themselves. When a family has a disabled child, they may be considered a burden. They dont know how to deal with the problem, Dr Tin Ma Phyu said. When we realised our child had [autism], we couldnt accept it at all, U they can interact with people in a normal manner and the tendency is for them to improve to a greater level. And in this the parents role remains essential, only by accepting their childs condition and working towards providing the best possible support can a child develop. Parents have to collaborate. Parents should be training their children at home in the same way they are trained at school. Only if parents and teachers collaborate can the students improve, said Daw naw Hae Kalay. By providing an appropriate education, children are more able to work within their condition and improve their own abilities, said Daw naw Hae Kalay, head of special education division at Eden Care centre. Teaching children with disabilities requires a completely different approach than standard education and teachers need to go through specific training. Teachers need to have confidence in the students. They have to learn the value of the life of the children and identify the ability of the students by choosing individually catered teaching methods, said Daw naw Hae Kalay. It requires a different conception of the child and how to value them for who they are, added U Hta Oke. Teachers should not have an expectation of a students

If we want to upgrade the education sector we must have unity and cooperation with the state sector.
Aung naing Oo, father of an autistic child, told The Myanmar Times. We were so shocked. We didnt know why the child got it or who was responsible for it. now our son is going to a training school and we support everything for him. We dont expect so much from him, we think it is OK if he is healthy and happy. By involving children with disabilities in everyday society

performance. They cannot give up in despair if they find a student is unable to learn Kagyi after being taught for a week. U Htar Oke said. There are only a few such centres like Edan or new World training school in Myanmar that focus on disabled education. Eden Care Centre opened in 2000 and accepts disabled children ranging from newborn babies to 18 years olds. They include autistic children, hyperactive children, children who have downs syndrome and children with cerebral palsy. There are five rooms in the centre, arranged by age with a total of 180 students. As such, each students learning difficulty varies, which requires different ways of teaching to be used. Teachers are taught to focus their attention on where the students advantage is, rather than on their disadvantages. Sometimes the students themselves become our teacher. We have to learn how to make teaching easy depending on their ability to learn, said Daw naw Hae Kalay. Students are mainly taught daily movement lessons called adaptive daily living. They are taught to deal with daily routines without having to seek help from parents and teachers, she said. All the students are taught via five senses. We need to enhance their ability to understand by stimulating their senses, Daw naw Hae Kalay said. However, teaching relies mainly on the sense of sight. If the sense of hearing is emphasized, the students get confused once they lose concentration on the things being taught. So teaching and everyday living are generally taught based on the sense of sight, Dr Tin Ma Phyu said. Besides using specific teaching aids, they are taught Myanmar, English, maths, reading, writing, drawing, poem recitation, story telling and dancing, as well as self-management. Lessons like changing behaviours, increasing awareness, training in communication with other people, assignments, musical movement, arts and general play are taught depending on the needs and development of each student. Some people may think that specially designed education isnt formal education, but that isnt true. They are taught depending on their ability to learn, U Htar Oke said. Translated by Thit Lwin

11

Parents face risks with overseas education agencies

By Cing Don Nuam
BOOM in education agencies in Yangon, promising greater opportunities overseas, reflect an increase in education choices, but also the lack of domestic options. With many students struggling to find a job after graduating from public universities at home, even from the University of Medicine, thought to be the most highly prestigious university in Myanmar, the chance to study abroad is increasingly being seen as more promising in the eyes of both students and their parents. Capitalising on this, overseas education agencies have grown in Yangon, but many have found that paying agencies to go to a college in foreign coun-

tries is a risky process. Parents say that some agencies have not supported them on issues such as taking foreign exams and unfamiliar admission processes, as well as future costs that have meant they pay out initially without knowing the full costs. The process to get their children abroad is often opaque and unregulated, for example having relatives abroad improving the chance of securing a visa to that country. U Zam Za Dal, who sent his daughter to Singapore for nursing school, said he found the standard of many agencies quite low, and had to try many before finding a good one. I tried several agencies for my daughter and most of them just wanted money, he said. The last agency I contacted

for my daughter was quite trustworthy. It had an official contract with the Singapore government and now my daughter is taking classes at the university she planned to go to, living on campus and is able to send money back to the family every month as well, he said. This isnt always the case, with some students promised one thing by the agency and arriving to find it isnt the case. I heard from one of my friends that a certain agency convinced students that they could study business but when they actually reached the university, they didnt offer that major. It was such a waste of time and money for both the parents and student. However, he said it was up to the parents to make sure it

Students in discussion in Yangon. Myanmar Times archive works for them. This also happens because of the parents, especially those who were not well-informed. Whether agencies are effective or not is actually in the hands of the customers. If their children really want to go abroad for their education, it is important to try and contact trusted agencies, he said. Others felt that what is more important is the desire of the students to study in making a success of going abroad than the agencies. I appreciate the fact that we are seeing more and more agencies helping students to go abroad and get into schools which guarantees a future career. But it is the students and their parents themselves that should be sure going abroad is the right thing and really work for it, said U Dai Lian Pau, a father of three daughters who lives in Bahan Township. All three of his daughters have gone to Singapore universities. You shouldnt rely too much on the agencies although they are the mediators and somewhat important, he said. It is understandable from the parents perspective that the costs and the expenses needed are too much, which makes it risky. But sometimes we need the courage to risk the Kyat 100 we have for K1000 in the future, he said.

12

Flexible learning opportunities need support

By Aye Sapay Phyu and Htoo Aung
YAnMAR needs to support a more flexible educational system, beyond a school to university transition, to help more people gain an opportunity to study and improve the countrys low level of education, say students and teachers. Distance learning and continuous learning are two such potentials that needs greater support as they can offer work related study for people who would otherwise be unable to. Ma Moe Thuzar, an English graduate from UDE, said the course helped her from suspending her education because of financial constraints. "At first I joined the University of Foreign Languages as a day student after passing my matriculation exam. But my parents struggled to support me along with their two other children on their government salaries as prices increased, she said.

I decided to change to distance education and fund it with my own earnings in the second year. By taking distance education, I was able to graduate without missing any school years," she said. Although day student graduates from the University of Foreign Languages are favoured over graduates of UDE, she believed that it comes down to the students ability and interest in the subject. Ma Kaythi nwe, another graduate of the University of Distance Education (UDE) majoring in Economy, said that being a UDE student she had more time to gain work experience, to take care of her sick father and to successfully pass her exams. "I intended to join Industrial Chemistry subjects as a day student. But, unfortunately, my father was taken seriously ill and I had no choice but to join UDE as it didnt require me to go to university everyday, she said. My father passed away when I was in my second year but I continued my three year

distance course. It meant that at the same time I could study languages, accounting, computers, as well as earn some money doing a part time job. Despite gaining a Bachelor of Arts (Eco) from UDE as a distance learner, as well as an internationally recognised diploma from the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), she struggled to find work. When I tried to get a permanent job with my graduate diploma, the employers said they preferred a Bachelor of Commerce from full time students," she said. The preference for full time students is because distance learning students get less training in the course, she said. "The university only gave distance students 10 days pre-exam training per year. Most of the students had to take tuition in private training centres to understand the course," she said. She said that without having an international recognised certificate such as LCCI it

would be harder for distance graduates to find a good position in a company. But distance education can help students who have financial difficulties to continue their education, she said. "I think distance education system is essential system for a country such as Myanmar where most families have financial difficulties. Most of the students who do distance education have to work to pay for their education expenses. Distance education creates opportunities for those who would not normally be able to graduate," she said. Distance Education was pioneered in Myanmar by Yangon Institute of Education which began offering a diploma in education by mail correspondence in 1973 and a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) program in 1981. Yangon University was the first university to offer its own correspondence courses in the arts, sciences, economics and law. Mandalay University began its own correspondence education in 1979.

By 1981, all universities and degree colleges were allowed to offer correspondence courses. The University of Distance Education was established in July 1992, with Yangon and Mandalay as its hubs in lower and upper Myanmar. UDE has consistently increased its intake of students seeking alternative ways to complete a degree, but a lack of consistent support has seen its status lower than other degrees. Education opportunities for older people can also offer a chance for those who were unable to attend university after school, or to improve their work situation. I continue to study because I believe we should keep learning as much as we can, said Daw Khin Lay Soe, information and documentation officer at the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organisation (SEAMEO) regional centre in Yangon. I study English because there are many new subjects that are being written in English. "As a librarian I have to continue studying a variety of new subjects. I try to keep up with every new subject in my spare time so I can then work with them. U Thet Lwin, an English language teacher in Yangon, said that people should not stop studying otherwise they may find themselves unable to do what they really want or regret it too late. "There is a difference with the students continue to study and those who study again at a later stage in life or go back to study to do something different in life. The latter struggle more compared with say doctors who are usually involved with many lectures in their profession even if they have not previously taken an English course. "Most older students cannot

study hard because of their age and busy career, he said. "Students attending speaking courses could not properly focus on their study because they are usually busy. They usually cant attend all the courses and they cant do any homework," the teacher said. But he said the number of people aged between 40 and 50 returning to study is on the rise. "We generally see two groups of people that attend our classes, for their own personal aims or to aid them in their work. Middle-aged people over 40 and 50 usually study for the latter," said U Thet Lwin. Language learning needs to be continuous to keep improving and benefit a career, he said. "Among our students are doctors, seamen, government officials and businessmen. Most of them are studying English to aid them in their work, but each have a different focus, such as writing, speaking, listening or reading," he said. Doctors tend to study English to communicate with foreign patients. Seamen come to our classes because they want to improve their reading of law books while businessmen study English to help gain business opportunities with foreigners as well as improving their writing skill. Likewise, government officials need English to communicate with other foreign officials. This is only likely to increase as opportunities increase along with greater engagement with the world, requiring greater support from the government. "I study English for my job so that I can engage with the international community," U Tun Tun Kyaw, a businessman in Yangon said.

Translated by Zar Zar Soe

In commemoration of

The 51sT AnniversAry of The nATionAl DAy AnD 21sT liberATion DAy of The sTATe of KuwAiT
Sponsored by the Kuwait Embassy, Yangon. 25 February, 2012

Message of his Excellency Mr Essa Y Al Shamali Ambassador of the State of Kuwait

Assalamu Alaikum Wa Rahmatullah Wa Barakatuh

Dear Friends hIS is a month of celebration and rejoicing in Kuwait as we get together to observe the momentous occasions of the 51st. Independence Day and 21st. Liberation Day of the State of Kuwait. This particular year, the occasion bears a more significant tone as we consolidate our friendly relations with The Republic of the Union of Myanmar by setting up our Embassy in Yangon last December. While extending my warm greetings to the friendly people of Myanmar, I welcome everyone to share and rejoice with us. On this particular day, I would like to recall here with great pride the pragmatic steps of the farsighted and sagacious leaderships of our two friendly countries in nurturing and strengthening the cooperative relations that so happily exist between us. This relationship, evolved over the years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries in 1998, is rooted in the commonalities of approach and shared beliefs and perceptions despite our separation due to geographical proximity. Both Kuwait and Myanmar have common principles, hopes and aspirations and common views on matters of international and regional interests. One of the underlying principles in this deep and traditional bonding is the mutual respect for each other as well as the respect for the Independence and territorial integrity of all nations irrespective of their size, position and creed.

Both these friendly countries are active members of the United Nations and other international Organizations like the NonAligned Movement. It is a matter of great pride for both Kuwait and Myanmar to be able to work together not only for the welfare of the peoples of the two countries but also in the promotion of peace, stability and prosperity of the world in general through these august bodies.

infrastructural and development projects in Myanmar. Dear Friends, Kuwait attaches great importance to the exchange of visits of dignitaries and officials of the two countries which helps in fostering strong relations and better understanding. The visit to Myanmar by his highness Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al Sabah in 2008 is a testimony of this strong and fruitful relation. The visit to Kuwait by the Deputy Foreign Minister of Myanmar in 2010 is a continuity of the process of strengthening our bilateral ties. Dear Friends, Another important means of fostering strong cooperation is the establishment of people to people contact and I look forward to the consolidating of cultural and trade cooperation between our two countries through exchange of visits by the cultural and trade delegations of our two countries in the coming days. Dear Friends, Before concluding, while reiterating here the goodwill and friendship of the Government and people of Kuwait for Myanmar and its great people, I would also like to take this opportunity in expressing my profound appreciation and gratitude to the Government and people of Myanmar for the warm hospitality and consideration shown to me and my colleagues here in Myanmar. Long Live Kuwait - Myanmar Friendship. Thank you.

His Highness Sheikh Nawaf Al Ahmad Al Sabah Crown Prince

His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Amir of State of Kuwait

Kuwait at a glance
Official Name Capital Location State of Kuwait (Daw lat AIKuwait) Kuwait City North West corner of the Arabian Gulf, between Latitude 28.45 and 30.05 North of the equator and between Longitudes 46.30 and 48.30 East of Greenwich 17,820 sq.km. (6,960 sq. miles) The Borders' length is about 685 km of which 195 km is sea border. It is bounded by Saudi Arabia on the South and South West and by Iraq on the North and West. On the East is the Arabian Gulf. Total 490 km Mostly flat, sandy desert. The northern part of the country is the presence of many within while the southern part of the flat characterised with dispersed hills country is generally 3.5 million (2010 estimate) Kuwaiti Compulsory from ages 6-14 and free at all levels for Kuwaitis Arabic but English is widely spoken Kuwaiti: 33.4%, other Arabs: 34.8%, Asians: 24.3%, Iranian: 2.1%, others: 5.4% Muslim 85%, others 15% 93.3% Constitutional Monarchy 6 governorates Unicameral National Assembly consisting 50 seats. Members are elected by popular vote to serve four year terms Open market economy with proven crude oil reserve of about 96 billion barrels $1167.90 billion $81,800 Oil and oil refined products, fertiliser, petro chemical products Food, clothings, , manufactured goods, pharmaceutical products, machinery, newsprint Export: $ 63.27 billion Import: $21.61 billion 499km Territorial, Sea: 12 nm petroleum, fish, natural gas Kuwaiti Dinar (KD 1= US $3.50) 1613 1913 Ports National Anthem National Emblem Constitution First Ruler Present Ruler Year of independence Although Kuwait has been as independent entity for over two centuries, it earned International Recognition as a sovereign State in June 1961 Approved and promulgated in November 11, 1962 his highness Sheikh Sabah-1 Bin Jaber (1756-1762) his highness Sheikh Sabah AI-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah (2006- ) his highness Sheikh Nawaf AIAhmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah h. h. Sheikh Mubarak Al Sabah Four coloured flag. The colours are derived from a poem by Safiy AI-Deen AI-hil. The Green stands for the greenery, the white for peace, the red for the Martyrs and the black for oil wealth. A falcon with outspread wings embracing a dhow Sailing on blue and white waves symbolises Kuwaits maritime tradition. 'Kuwait, my country'.was composed by poet Meshari AI-Adwani. The first 6 bars of the National Anthem. 25th. February 26th. February 4 seasons: Winter, Spring, Summer and Autumn The weather of Kuwait is characterised by long, hot and dry summers and short, cold and occasionally Wet winters There are 4 ports: Mina Ahmadi, Mina Abdullah, Mina Al-Zoor, Mina Shuaiba
Kuwait Tower - Symbol of modern Kuwait.

Mr. Essa Y. Al Shamali

Dear Friends, We in Kuwait view with admiration the strides this country has made in different fields of national development despite various adversities. Kuwait is indeed happy to be associated as a proud partner as it endeavors to achieve economic development and prosperity on the one hand and institutionalize democracy on the other. Ever since the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two countries, Kuwait has offered its hands of friendship and cooperation to this friendly country of Myanmar. Both Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and the Kuwait Investment Authority have shown keen interest in the

Area Boundary

Land boundaries Topography

Population Demonym Education Language Ethnic Groups

KuwAiT AT A GlAnCe

Religions Rate of Literacy Government Type Administrative Division Legislative Branch

Crown Prince Prime Minister National Flag

Economy

GDP estimate (2011) Per Capita Exports Imports

Trade (201 Oest.) Coast line Maritime claims Natural resources Currency First settlement Anglo-Ottomon Convention

The National Salute The National Day Liberation Day Seasons Climate

The nATionAl DAy AnD liberATion DAy of The sTATe of KuwAiT

Democracy in Kuwait
UWAIT has a well-established national identity and a long history as a democratic nation. It is worth mentioning that democratic practice in Kuwait could be traced back to the eighteenth century when the Kuwaiti people unanimously chose their own Leader from among the Al-Sabah family which has been ruling over the region since 1756, not by seizing power by force but through consensus and in consultation with other coexisting clans and tribes. That non-violent, consultative characteristic has shaped Kuwaiti politics for much of the countrys history. Soon after emerging as an independent state in June 1961, a Constituent Assembly was formed to frame the constitution of the country. A 50 seat Assembly was established by Kuwaits November 1962 constitution. Indeed, Kuwait National Assembly is one of the longest-serving elected legislative body in the Arab World. It is a remarkably powerful and truculent elected parliament that is the nations sole source of legislation. Kuwait has one of the most vocal and vibrant democracies in the Middle East. It is not a Western style democracy but rather a democracy that springs from the traditional practice of consultation and consensus and the guarantee of equality of all, as much as it emanates from the people. This is enshrined in the constitution which in Article 6 stipulates that The System of Government in Kuwait shall be democratic under which Sovereignty resides in the people the source of all powers. Therefore it is little wonder that the democratic system in Kuwait has sustained despite the invasion and its concomitant turmoil. Kuwait is unique in the region for having a legislative branch of Government with real power. This practice of democracy has been in vogue since the institutionalization of democracy after the emergence of Kuwait as an independent country. It reflects the close understanding between the Ruling Family and the people of Kuwait that has taken a firm root since the 1700s. Freedom of expression which is one of the cardinal principles of democracy is deeply embedded in the culture of Kuwait. This is reflected in the regular Diwaniyas of well to do Kuwaitis where people from all walks of life participate in discussions, deliberations and debates. At times, the issues debated in the Diwaniyas find their way into parliamentary debates and discussions and although these are not binding they nevertheless are respected and taken into consideration when the National Assembly or the Government shapes

Kuwait Parliament session in progress.

Kuwait at the Gulf Cooperation Council Summit meeting.

Foreign policy of Kuwait

hE cardinal principle on which the foreign policy of Kuwait is based had been enunciated by the late Amir of the State of Kuwait Sheikh Jaber AI-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of the State of Kuwait when he declared that, Kuwait lives under the protection of Islam as its religion, Arabism as its homeland, cooperation as its strategic path, tolerance as its motto, fraternity as its guidance, constitution as its modus operandi, justice as its rule, progress as its responsibility and peace as its goal. The objective of Kuwaits pursuit of diplomacy is based on a pragmatic and balanced approach and is conducted in accordance with the governments philosophy and the interest of the State. Kuwait adheres to a policy, which is characterised by clarity, straightforward and quiet diplomacy. It strives to strengthen cooperation with all countries on the basis of mutual respect and non-intervention in the internal affairs of other States. It advocates the use of peaceful means in resolving all problems between States in accordance with the principles of right and justice, away from conflicts, sphere of influence and International blocs. At the same time, Kuwaits policy is concerned with the safeguard of her independence and sovereignty and her freedom of political decision. This policy stems from her belief in a common Arab destiny towards the development of relations with its fraternal Arab States. hence, Kuwait plays a significant role in the progress of the Arab League. Kuwait is an ardent advocate of Pan Arabism and its policy and interest in the Arab world is motivated by its strong adherence to the principles of Arab nationalism. Indeed, for Kuwait, Arab solidarity is not an outfit to be put on and off to suit its interest. It is blood in the veins, a candle in the heart, heritage passed by forefathers, ambitions and security, language and religion, history and geography, air and water, an undiluted and a never ending inter-twine interest. Kuwait always has a throbbing heart for the concerns of the Arab nation. Its hands are always extended towards them. It is an active and vocal member of the Arab League and plays a leading role in promoting economic prosperity in the region through Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development. Kuwait is vocal in its demand for withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces from all Arab lands illegally and forcibly occupied by Israel.

Kuwait has been a firm supporter of the Middle East peace process since the Oslo accords. At the 1994 donors conference, Kuwait was one of only three Arab states to contribute to the Palestinian Authority, committing itself to $25 million dollars in development aid to the Palestinian people, in addition to the millions of dollars sent by Kuwait-led multilateral funds for projects in the West Bank and Gaza. Kuwait again contributed to Palestinian development at the second donors conference, held in Washington in 1998. Being a Gulf State, Kuwait played a pivotal role in bringing about the unification of the Gulf Emirates. The formation of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), a brainchild of his highness the Amir of Kuwait, was perhaps one of the most important landmark of Kuwaits foreign policy. On the Islamic level, Kuwait ardently believes that the progress of the Islamic Ummah is linked with the cooperation and co-existence of the Muslims in a spirit of tolerance and fraternity. Since the dawn of Kuwaits independence, this country exerted strenuous efforts, particularly under the sagacious guidance of his highness Sheikh Sabah AI-Ahmad Al-Jaber AlSabah Al-Sabah, the architect of Kuwaits foreign policy and the Amir of the State of Kuwait, and the prudent leadership of his highness the Crown Prince and his highness the Prime Minister, to fulfil Kuwaits strong commitment to the welfare and progress of the Islamic Ummah. On the International plane, Kuwaits foreign relations have always been balanced and based on openness. It is worth mentioning here that Kuwait was the first Gulf country to have recognised and established diplomatic relations with the erstwhile Soviet Union, in the cold war era. This candid approach in the conduct of its relations with other countries, based on cooperation, understanding and continuity, is not a mere coincidence or a passing phase that might be altered with a change of faces in the government. Rather, it is a philosophy felt deeply by the government and is based on self-confidence and mutual trust between the citizens and the government of Kuwait. Kuwait aspires to a new approach in International Relations moulded by a New World Order, which is based on international legitimacy and a rejection of the principles of using force, terrorism and aggression to alter the status quo.

Kuwait is currently in the midst of a transformation, as it considers its place in the era of globalization. The Kuwaiti people recognize the nexus between domestic and foreign policy, and have undertaken tremendous political and economic decisions that prepare the country for sweeping reforms. In recent years, Kuwait has deepened its commitment to democratic progress. It has expanded the voting franchise; embarked upon an ambitious plan to privatize the statecentered economy; and opened up the country to direct foreign investment. Kuwait strongly advocates the continued role of the United Nations in ensuring international peace and security. Kuwait calls for international cooperation to protect humanity, individuals and groups from the dangers of ethnic, racial and State terrorism and all forms of concomitant threats and blackmails. At the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and other multilateral agencies, Kuwait is a major donor. historically it has contributed 5 per cent of its GDP to economic development of other countries; this places Kuwait near the head of the list of donor countries as a percentage of GDP. Kuwaits strong adherence to what it regards as the basic principles of her external policy has been put to severe tests on a number of occasions. Kuwait does not compromise its principles and honour. his highness the Amir had once said in October 1985 that our decision will remain free and we will not yield to blackmail, terrorism and emotionalism. Kuwait has strong conviction that World peace in general and regional peace, stability and prosperity can only come through a rational approach to divisive issues which could be and should be resolve amicably through discussions. In this aspect, it has tremendous faith on the United Nations and its principles and charters, as a means of sustaining international legitimacy, peace and security of all the countries. Therefore, it is no mere coincidence that Kuwait shares the belief of all peace loving countries that adherence to the UN charter and respect for the principles and objectives of the United Nations Security Council will usher in a new era of peaceful cooperation and co-existence, stability and security and progress and emancipation in the Arab Gulf Region.

the policies of the country. Kuwait is among those few states in the Middle East with a written constitution, separation of power, rights of free speech, fair elections based on adult franchise and equal opportunities for men and women alike and an assertive parliament with a genuinely popular mandate which can question the Prime Minister and his cabinet ministers on matters of importance to the national interest of Kuwait. Kuwaits formal experience with modern democracy began with two primitive assemblies, one convened in 1920 and the other in 1938. Neither of these early experiences with representative Government lasted very long but they established a model which have become part of Kuwaits democratic tradition. That the 1962 constitution remains in force till today is an indication of its compatibility with Kuwaiti tradition and culture. This democratic experience has been given a further impetus with the granting of voting rights to women and their right to contest in elections. A fruit of this latest Kuwaiti stride in democratic practice is the election of four women in the 50 seat National Assembly election in 2009. Although there is no political party in Kuwait but the representation in the Assembly covers every segment of the society which can be categorized according to the following Summary of the 2 February 2012 National Assembly of Kuwait Election Results: Sunni Islamists and like-minded - 34 Liberals - 9 Shia Islamists - 7 Kuwaits democracy has experienced ups and downs but due its resilience and because of the pragmatism of the sagacious leadership, it stood the test of time.

The rulers of Kuwait

The house of Al Sabah is the ruling family of Kuwait. A scion of the Anizah and Utub tribes in Najd, present day Saudi Arabia, migrated to Kuwait in the early 18th century. The Sheikhs of these two tribes entered into an alliance in 1752 to rule Kuwait. The first Emir of Kuwait was Sheikh Sabah 1. Subsequent Sheikhs are the descendants of Sabah 1. The Emir of Kuwait who is the head of the executive branch is nominated by a family council composed of senior and prominent members of the Al-Sabah clan. A unique feature of the succession formality is that it is not strictly hereditary. Traditionally, the family chooses the leader from each succeeding generation. For instance, the late Sheikh Jaber Al-Sabah who was the Emir from 1977 to 2006, had appointed his cousin Sheikh Saad Al-Salem Al-Sabah as the Crown Prince. The Kuwaiti parliament has a say in the appointment of the Amir. Article 4 of the constitution stipulates that Kuwait is a hereditary Emirate, the succession to which shall be in the descendants of the late Mubarak Al-Sabah. Mubarak Al-Sabah had three children, the offspring of two of them Jaber and Salem rotate the Emirship. Article 3 of the constitution states that the parliament has a constitutional right to approve or disapprove the appointment of an Emir. Legislative Power is vested in the Amir and the National Assembly in accordance with the constitution. The Executive Power is vested in the Amir and cabinet in the manner specified by the constitution. The Amir exercises his powers through his ministers.

Former rulers of Kuwait.

Sabah 1st Abdullah 1st Jaber1st Sabah 2nd Abdullah 2nd Mohammad Bin Sabah Mubarak Bin Sabah Jaber Bin Mubarak Al-Sabah Salem Bin Mubarak Al-Sabah Ahmed Bin Jaber Al-Sabah Abdullah Bin Salem Al-Sabah Sabah Al-Salem Al-Sabah Jaber AI-Ahmed Al-Sabah Saad AI-Abdullah Al-Sabah Sabah AI-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah 1756-1762 1762-1812 1812-1859 1859-1866 1866-1892 1892-1896 1896-1915 1915-1917 1917-1921 1921-1950 1950-1965 1965-1977 1977-2006 15-1-2000 Al-Sabah 6 to 24-1-2006 25-1-2006-