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ISSUE 683 | JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Senior monks expected to amend marriage law draft

A draft law circulated at a peace conference in Yangon on June 13 that would force non-Buddhist men to convert if marrying a Buddhist woman does not reflect the views of senior members of the Sangha, an official says, and changes likely to be made at a meeting scheduled for June 27. NEWS 3

NEWS 3

Daw Suu accepts perks from Asian Wings Airlines

The airline, which is closely linked to U Tay Za, says the National League for Democracy leader and democracy icon has accepted a platinum frequent flyer pass that will give her free flights for life to Asian Wings destinations in Myanmar.

NEWS 8

Time magazines Wirathu cover sparks outrage

The magazines Face of Buddhist Terror cover featuring controversial Mandalay monk U Wirathu has prompted criticism in print and online, with a Facebook page set up to show support for U Wirathu quickly attracting more than 10,000 likes and a deluge of angry comments targeting both TIME and award-winning journalist Hannah Beech.
BUSINESS 24

08
PHOTO: THIRI

PAGE

UMFCCI election a joke, say members

Leaders of the countrys peak business body, including president U Win Aung of Dagon International, were re-elected in a controversial vote on June 15 that has divided members. Only 600 of the 20,000 UMFCCI members are thought to have taken part in the election amid accusations that organisers did not give the required 21 days notice.

Legal revamp aimed at gaining US market share

New legislation protecting workers rights and intellectual property will be the focus of parliaments next session, in a bid to ensure Myanmar exports obtain duty-free access to the worlds largest market the United States.

2 THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Page 2
The local lowdown & best of the web

online editor Kayleigh Long | kayleighelong@gmail.com

THE INSIDER:

Operation Dumbo dropped

The proposal for Myanmar to lend a white elephant to Thailand has been nixed, with state media reporting Union Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin rejected the idea on the grounds that it would be a logistical nightmare. Thailands Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Towichchaikul expressed his interest in renting a white elephant for six months, to be displayed at Chiang Mai Zoo. It was proposed as a goodwill gesture to mark the 65th anniversary of Thai-Myanmar diplomatic relations.

National Office of Buddhism. His behaviour - wearing sunglasses and carrying a Louis Vuitton handbag - amounts to an ostentatious display that will provoke criticism from laymen, Nopparat said. Virood Chaipanna, director of Si Sa Kets Office of Buddhism, named the monk as Luang Pu Nenkham Chattigo, 34, from Wat Pa Khantitham. Yesterday I went to the temple but he was not there. They said he is in France, Virood said. AFP

A North West star

Video showing Thai monks lavish lifestyle causes outrage

The behavior of Thailands monks has been thrown into the spotlight after a YouTube video went viral. The footage showed three monks flying in a private jet, wearing earphones and sunglasses and travelling with a Louis Vuitton bag. According to one of the monks, who has since been reprimanded, the jet was chartered by a devotee to fly them home to northeast Si Sa Ket from Bangkok after performing duties in November, said Nopparat Benjawattantnun, director of the

Rap star Kanye West and reality TV star Kim Kardashian have named their newborn North West, prompting an outbreak of wisecracking Friday on Twitter. Gossip website TMZ said the name appears on a birth certificate at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles where Kardashian delivered on June 15, a few weeks before her due date. So Im assuming that North West wont be a One Direction fan? said one Twitter wag. Another fancied the notion of R&B songstress Alicia Keys having a child named Car. AFP

Style Statement
An image ostensibly of anti-pervert stockings has proved enormously popular on Chinas microblogging site, Sina Weibo. User HappyZhangJiang described the image as, Super sexy, summertime anti-pervert full-leg-of-hair stockings, essential for all young girls going out .

Kachin model M Seng Lu was born on September 24, 1993, in Myitkyina. While not working as a model, she tends to her first-year history studies at the University of East Yangon. Her big break came when she entered the Face of Myanmar contest in 2011, going on to be crowned Miss Mizon in 2012. Ei Ei Thu, Photo: Htet Aung Kyaw (Studio HAK)
If you'd like to be involved in a NOW! Magazine photo shoot email us at editorial@now.com.mm

REGIONAL INSIDER

Votes show what goes up may come down

Fortune is a fickle beast that can suddenly propel a nobody to prominence and reduce a king to a commoner. It has no favourites, as two of this regions most powerful men discovered last week when fortune pushed them to the precipice and, to paraphrase Steppenwolf, left them with political tombstones in their eyes. First, Vietnams Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung was humiliated by his own people on Tuesday when the countrys legislature held its inaugural confidence vote on the national leadership. Dung, 63, came in last among the most senior elected officials. It was a pitiful show, as one-third of the members of the National Assembly voted against him, and an astonishing 57 percent said they did not have complete confidence in him. Of course, the Vietnamese public has long loathed and ridiculed him, but now large swathes of his own party have turned against him. Crippled, the man survives by the skin of his teeth only because the dysfunctional Vietnam Communist Party is petrified of the ramifications of sacking him and his coterie of corrupt dunderheads. The VCP knows it is reviled for chronic economic mismanagement and continued rampant graft, particularly in the huge and inefficient nationalised enterprises that still dominate the economy. Certainly, Dungs fellow party members know that if they do not act soon change will be forced on them, either peaceably, as recently in Indonesia and Myanmar, or violently, as in Eygpt, Libya and now Turkey. Concurrently, fortune has also turned against another regional leader, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, whose position, while not as desperate as Dungs, is now under severe threat. Najib, 59, led his ruling National

ROGER MITTON
roger.mitton@gmail.com

Front government to its worst ever election result last month. The Front not only lost more seats than in its disastrous 2008 showing, which caused then PM Abdullah Badawi to quit, but it came second in the total number of votes cast nationwide. Najib had promised to reverse Abdullahs shocking losses, but he never came close and as a result the coalition is now a front in name only. Its Chinese and Indian components deserted en masse to the opposition Peoples Alliance led by former DPM Anwar Ibrahim. It was only thanks to pandering to

the rural Malay Muslim masses that the Front managed to scrape home with a reduced majority. So, as with Dung in Vietnam, many now view Najib as a lameduck PM and the kris daggers are already being unsheathed by many in his own party, the United Malays National Organisation. Last week, one of its old warhorses, Razaleigh Hamzah, openly talked to government and opposition MPs about his desire to replace Najib as PM. Razaleigh, 76, is a quixotic animal who has already challenged for the premiership back in 1987 when he came close to unseating then PM Mahathir Mohamad. Ironically, it was the votes of Najibs faction that helped Mahathir retain power and consigned Razaleigh to the wilderness, until his reassimilation into the party years later. So there is no love lost between the

two men and if Razaleigh can muster 112 MPs he could oust Najib on a parliamentary confidence vote. It is unlikely to happen, but in acting as a stalking horse he may siphon off enough support from Najib that stronger UMNO leaders will enter the fray and then the PMs fate will be doomed. On Thursday, Najib tried to forestall such an outcome by saying that hed got the message from the voters and that he will make the Front more meritocratic and restore its appeal to the non-Malay communities. The benefits of economic transformation must flow to all Malaysians, said Najib. I will work to ensure our national success leaves no one behind. Thats going to be a tough task, but unless it happens, and happens fast, fortune will leave him and his hapless Hanoi counterpart dead ducks before the year is out.

www.mmtimes.com

News 3
EXCLUSIVE

Senior monks set to amend controversial marriage law

Section of proposed law that would force men to convert if they marry a Buddhist woman is likely to be removed

CHERRY THEIN
t.cherry6@gmail.com

Daw Suu accepts lifetime flight offer from local carrier

ZAW WIN THAN zawwinthan@gmail.com DAW Aung San Suu Kyi has accepted a platinum membership that will allow her to fly with Asian Wings Airways for free for the rest of her life, a spokesperson for the airline said last week. The domestic airline was established in September 2010 by U Tay Za, owner of Htoo Group of Companies, to avoid the US sanctions that were imposed on his other airline, Air Bagan. Daw May Thae Maung, a public relations manager in Asian Wings commercial department, said Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had accepted a lifetime platinum membership with its My Wings frequent flyer program. Our management decided to offer this lifetime platinum membership because Daw Aung San Suu Kyi travels quite frequently to different cities throughout the country, Daw May Thae Maung said. We want to support her by ensuring she can travel comfortably by air on her domestic trips rather than by car. This membership will allow her to take any of our flights with two additional people. This is totally free of charge and they dont need to pay anything. A spokesperson for the National League for Democracy could not be reached for comment. Asian Wings Airways normally offers three types of membership: classic, silver and gold. However, Daw May Thae Maung said it also offered platinum membership to a very limited number of people. She said Asian Wings had offered the membership because of its deep, heartfelt respect, admiration and appreciation of everything [Daw Aung San Suu Kyi] has done in her lifetime.

A CONTROVERSIAL draft law that would place restrictions on marriages between Buddhist women and men of other religions is likely to be amended at a meeting of Buddhist leaders this week. A draft of the law was released unofficially at a peace conference in Yangon on June 13. It attracted significant criticism both inside Myanmar and abroad and some have expressed concerns that it could exacerbate religious divisions and tension. U Pyanna Varda, the leader of the team of monks that has drafted the law, told The Myanmar Times on June 19 that the final version of the proposed law would be released to the public after the June 27 meeting. He indicated that changes would be made to the draft at the meeting and criticised the manner in which it had been released. It is a very delicate issue, U Pyanna Varda said. Some of the points in the draft do not represent our beliefs and we need to correct them and present a more accurate draft. He said the draft law should not have been distributed at the conference because it was not ready to present to the public and also ran contrary to the events theme, which was finding ways to resolve religious conflict in Myanmar. However, a copy of the draft was presented to journalists on arrival at the conference, held on June 13 and 14 at a monastery in Yangon Regions Hmawbi township. Now the wrong message has been spread because [U Wirathu] couldnt explain about it well or give enough information, he said. U Wirathu is a hard-line monk from Mandalays Masoeyein monastery who has campaigned for a ban on marriages between Buddhist women and Muslim men, arguing that Buddhists are being forced to convert to Islam. Organisers of last weeks conference also appeared upset that the marriage law proposal had distracted from their peaceful aims. U Kudala, who resides at Dhammaduta monastery, which hosted the

U Wirathu, a vocal proponent of the marriage law, takes part in a peace conference in Yangon on June 13. Photo: AFP

conference, said hardline monks had been warned prior to the event not to promote the law. The draft circulated on June 13 contains two sections one aimed at preventing forced conversions, and another, stricter section that only allows Buddhist women to marry other Buddhists. Men of other religions who wish to marry a Buddhist women would be forced to convert under the draft law, and also get permission from the wom-

The main objective of the law is to reinforce the right of freedom of worship. This is clear in the first section, said U Kudala. But the second section is shameful for all Buddhists. Some points in it have been written with personal feeling and it is unworkable. It should have been more clearly written. The draft I saw before did not say that anyone who marries a Buddhist must convert to Buddhism. How does that respect peoples right to worship freely?

Some points in the draft do not represent our beliefs and we need to correct them.
U Pyanna Varda Senior monk involved in drafting the marriage law

ans parents and local government officials. The second law is titled Urgent marriage law for Buddhist women and is thought to target marriages between Muslim men and Buddhist women. It says that those who do not respect the law will face a 10-year prison term and fine under section 493 of the Penal Code.

Everyone has right to worship the religion of their choice and this point should be highlighted. But he also said much of the information being spread about the draft law through the media and social media networks, particularly Facebook, was groundless and unreliable. Whenever someone posts about

this issue, they distort the original information with their own personal views and feelings, he said. A number of Buddhists interviewed by The Myanmar Times said they did not support the draft law in its current form. I dont support the current draft law. I feel that it is a violation of human rights and defames the Buddhist Sangha, said Ko Than Htike Aung of Hmawbi township. I feel that the law could create more tension between Buddhists and Muslims, said Ko Aung Ko from Yangon. Ma Sandar Win, a Buddhist from Insein township, questioned why the Buddhist leaders pushing the law did not also work to stop the sale of women to China for forced marriages. However, few Muslims appear to have joined the debate on the draft. One Muslim peace activist, Ma Thazin Aung, said extremists can be found in every religion and others must be careful not to be led into conflict by their attitudes. I dont think this draft law is going to solve any conflict, she said. If a marriage law is proposed, it should fair ... But the wording of this draft law is one-sided.

4 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief (MTE) Ross Dunkley | rsdunkley@gmail.com Chief Executive Officer & Editor-in-Chief (MTM) Dr Tin Tun Oo drtto@myanmartimes.com.mm Chief Operating Officer Wendy Madrigal madrigalmcm@gmail.com EDITORIAL newsroom@myanmartimes.com.mm Editor MTE Thomas Kean tdkean@gmail.com Editor MTM Zaw Myint editormtm@myanmartimes.com.mm Chief of Staff Zaw Win Than zawwinthan@gmail.com Editor Special Publications Myo Lwin myolwin@myanmartimes.com.mm Jessica Mudditt - jess.mudditt@gmail.com Deputy Editor MTM Sann Oo sannoo@gmail.com Business Editor MTE Vincent MacIsaac biz.news.myanmar@gmail.com Business Editor MTM Tin Moe Aung Property Editor MTM Htar Htar Khin property@myanmartimes.com.mm World Editor MTE Douglas Long editors@myanmartimes.com.mm The Pulse Editor MTE Manny Maung manny.maung@gmail.com Timeout Editor MTM Moh Moh Thaw mohthaw@gmail.com Online Editor Kayleigh Long kayleighelong@gmail.com Sports Editor Tim McLaughlin timothy.mclaughlin3@gmail.com Chief Political Reporter Soe Than Lynn Head of Translation Dept Ko Ko Head of Photographics Kaung Htet Photographers Boothee, Aung Htay Hlaing, Thiri Book Publishing Consultant Editor Col Hla Moe(Retd) Editor Win Tun Nay Pyi Taw Bureau Chief Soe Than Lynn soethanlynn@gmail.com PRODUCTION production@myanmartimes.com.mm Head of Production & Press Scrutiny Liaison Aung Kyaw Oo (1) Head of Graphic Design Tin Zaw Htway MCM PRINTING printing@myanmartimes.com.mm Head of Department Htay Maung Warehouse Manager Ye Linn Htay Factory Administrator Aung Kyaw Oo (3) Factory Foreman Tin Win ADVERTISING advertising@myanmartimes.com.mm National Sales Director Khin Thandar Htay sales-director@myanmartimes.com.mm Account Director Nyi Nyi Tun Classifieds Manager Khin Mon Mon Yi classified@myanmartimes.com.mm ADMIN & FINANCE Finance Manager Mon Mon Tha Saing finance@myanmartimes.com.mm HR Manager Nang Maisy administration@myanmartimes.com.mm Publisher Dr Tin Tun Oo, Permit No: 04143 Systems Manager Khin Maung Thaw webmaster@myanmartimes.com.mm DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Circulation & Distribution Director Jesse Gage distmgr@myanmartimes.com.mm circulation@myanmartimes.com.mm ADVERTISING & SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Telephone: (01) 253 642, 392 928 Facsimile: (01) 254 158 administration@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.

Forest reserve order ignores Nay Pyi Taw cases

Residents of more than 1200 villages no longer face the threat of prosecution, but no relief in sight for those on trial

SOE THAN LYNN

soethanlynn@gmail.com

A RECENT decision to remove hundreds of thousands of acres of illegally occupied land from forest reserves will not apply in the Nay Pyi Taw area, a Forest Department official said, despite hundreds of farmers facing jail terms for trespassing on forest land. The Ministry of Environmental Conservation and Forestry said in an announcement on June 13 that 1213 villages with more than 50 households that have been established illegally in forest reserves would benefit from the decision, which was taken to support the governments poverty alleviation objectives. Almost 346,000 acres will be removed from forest reserves under the plan, which has been approved by the president. For the hundreds of thousands of people living in these villages, many of which were established decades ago, it means freedom from the threat of prosecution for trespassing under forestry laws. Most of those set to benefit from the order live in Ayeyarwady

and Sagaing regions and Shan State. However, a Forest Department official, who asked not to be named, said no villages in Nay Pyi Taw would be affected. The first stage of the plan does not include villages from the Nay Pyi Taw area because there are a lot of disputes and they are being examined, the official told The Myanmar Times last week. Nay Pyi Taw has become a hotbed of land disputes in recent years, largely because of the scale and speed of its development. Thousands in the area who lived and worked land handed down through their family for generations have been dispossessed because they lacked proper ownership documents or their land was confiscated for state projects. However, hundreds of residents in the capital are also on trial for trespassing because they allegedly live in villages established illegally on forest land. There are many villagers charged for intruding onto forest land. In Pobbathiri township alone more than 50 cases involving 126 peasants are before the courts. They are charged under section 46 of the Forest Law by the Forest Department, said U Khin Maung Zaw, a veteran

lawyer based in the capital. Also in Lewe [township] there are about 70 cases with more than 200 farmers facing court. Anyone convicted of trespassing living on or working forest land faces a fine or up to six months in jail. If residents return to their villages after completing their prison term, they can face further action.

These 1200 villages are just the start. We will seek permission for more forest land write-offs.
Ministry of Forestry official

When charged, we have to come to the court several times. At first the plaintiff [from the department] didnt come to the court so we thought the case was closed but later a subpoena arrived, said a 35-yearold farmer from Shwe Nan Thar village who is on trial at Pobbathiri

township court for trespassing. One hundred and twenty-six farmers, including some sick people who cannot walk well and the elderly, have been charged. We asked the judge to just fine us but were told that a township level court cannot pass this sentence, he said. If the villages and land that have been used for a long time are removed from forest reserves then I applaud the government for their overdue decision. If its true then it shows they are really trying to alleviate poverty. However, this plan does not seem to have started in Nay Pyi Taw yet. The official said that the Forest Department would make more recommendations to the president about removing sections of land from forest reserves. The second phase of the program will target villages of 50 households or less, he said. These 1200 villages are just the start. We will seek permission for more forest land write-offs from the Presidents Office. At the same time we will check data from lower-level offices, he said. Only those who have been there for many years will have their land removed from forest reserves. It wont include those who have just arrived. Translated by Thit Lwin

Residents walk through floodwater in Yangon on June 9. Photo: Ko Taik

More heavy rain expected in lower Myanmar

AYE SAPAY PHYU ayephyu2006@gmail.com A LOW pressure area in the Bay of Bengal is expected to bring aboveaverage rainfall to lower Myanmar this week. The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology forecast that the low pressure area, which is in the west central Bay of Bengal, could intensify into a depression by June 30. The department has forecast vigorous monsoon conditions in the Andaman Sea and southern Bay of Bengal, and moderate to strong conditions in the rest of bay. This will likely mean above-average rainfall in Yangon, Ayeyarwady and Tanintharyi regions, as well as Kachin, Rakhine, Kayin and Mon states. However, lower Sagaing Region and Kayah State can expect below-average rainfall, while falls will be about normal in remaining regions and states. U Tun Lwin, a former director general of the department, said strong monsoon conditions could bring severe weather conditions in coastal areas of Tanintharyi Region, including heavy rainfall, strong winds and waves up to 3 metres (10 feet). Central Myanmar will see less rain in late June because of the lack of a rain-producing system in the Bay of Bengal or South China Sea. According to the International Research Institute in the United States, lower Myanmar is forecast to have above normal precipitation this week. People should be aware of the risk of flooding in delta areas near the end of the month, he wrote on his Facebook page. Meanwhile, a new 24-hour rainfall record of 7.17 inches (182 millimetres) was measured at Kayan in Yangon Region in the 24 hours to 9:30am on June 19, beating the old record of 6.85 inches (174mm) set in June 1993. The department has also forecast a steep rise in water levels on the Ayeyarwady River in the final 10 days of June, with Myitkyina and Bhamo in Kachin State and Katha in Sagaing Region likely to see a 180-centimetre rise. The water level is expected to rise 120cm at Mandalay, Sagaing, Pakokku and Nyaung Oo in central Myanmar and 30cm further downriver, in central and lower Myanmar area. The level of the Chindwin River in Sagaing Region is also expected to rise 180cm at Hkamti and Homalin, and 120cm at Mawlaik, Kalewa and Monywa. However, this will still not result in water levels approaching dangerous levels in any of the cities, the department said.

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.178, 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

6 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Hluttaw halves questions limit ahead of seventh session

NAW SAY PHAW WAA nawsayphawwaa@gmail.com PARLIAMENTARIANS will only be able to ask five questions that require a government official to front the parliament for the upcoming session, Pyithu Hluttaw representative U Kyi Myint told The Myanmar Times last week. Previously, MPs had been able to submit a maximum of 10 questions. However, they may submit further questions that can be answered by government officials through a letter. The decision was made because questions were taking up too much time, MPs said. Normally representatives could ask 10 questions before, said Amyotha Hluttaw representative U Phone Myint Aung. But it doesnt work because the questions are quite long compared with the session. Maybe the limits have been changed to meet the needs of parliament. Its not too bad that we can still can ask five questions though. The next session of the national parliament begins on June 25. While the number of questions has been halved, questions now only need to be submitted five days in advance, rather than 10. Pyithu Hluttaw representative Daw Phyu Phyu Thin from Mingalar Taung Nyunt said the number of priority questions had been halved to ensure that all parliamentarians had the opportunity to ask important questions. Some questions are being repeated, she said. But it would be better if we could all ask the questions we need answered before the session finishes. Yangon Region representative Daw Nyo Nyo Thin questioned whether the parliamentary committees were allowed to cut the number of questions. I have not been informed that the law has been amended and it states that each parliamentarian can ask 10 priority questions, she said. Even if there are a lot of questions, parliament must accept them. This is the right of representatives according to the law. They cant limit this.

The law states that each MP can ask 10 questions. The hluttaw must accept them.
Daw Nyo Nyo Thin Yangon Region hluttaw representative for Bahan

UN says agriculture sector needs US$120 million boost

Funding for technical assistance needed to improve food security, says UN Food and Agriculture Organization

Rakhine parties formalise merger

NAW SAY PHAW WAA nawsayphawwaa@gmail.com THE Rakhine Nationalities Development Party (RNDP) and the Arakan League for Democracy (ALD) have formalised an agreement to merge under the name Rakhine National Party. The deal was signed at Signature restaurant in Yangon in the early hours of June 17. It built on an agreement to abolish both groups and form a new party that was reached at a meeting held two days earlier at the Rakhine Thahaya Association. ALD chairman U Aye Thar Aung said most Rakhine people wanted the two groups to join forces and it was not related to concerns over electoral competition. We didnt merge because of the upcoming by-elections. Since we formed, our policy has been to work for national reconciliation. Everyone we have met has urged us to merge so we fulfilled the desire of the people, U Aye Thar Aung said. Following the June 15 meeting at the Rakhine Thahaya Association in Yangon, the two parties released a statement saying preparations to form the new organisation would be completed by the end of August. The party will have 30 permanent central executive committee members, with 15 members from both the RNDP and ALD. RNDP chairman U Aye Maung told The Myanmar Times that he would resign on September 1 because he had fulfilled his desire to merge the two groups. He said the single party would be better able to compete against rivals from the National League for Democracy and the Union Solidarity and Development Party. It is much better because that our two parties have become one, he said. The ALD was formed in 1989 and won 11 seats in the 1990 election. It was deregistered and did not compete in 2010 but re-registered in April 2012. Since we registered again in April, our main policy has been to amend the 2008 constitution ... to get federalism and internal peace, said U Aye Thar Aung.

AUNG SHIN
koshumgtha@gmail.com

THE government will need US$120 million in technical assistance to implement agricultural development projects, says a United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization representative. Speaking at a global summit on agricultural trade, investment and technology at Inya Lake Hotel on June 19, Bui Thi Lan laid out the priorities for Myanmars agricultural sector. In the medium term, until 2016, priority would go to increasing production for food security, followed by improving food safety and quality, sustainable management, human resources and capacity-building, improving rural livelihoods, land-use management and preparing for natural disasters and climate change. Were collaborating with ministries on agricultural development and food security. Weve also signed agreements with the ministry of national planning and economic development enhancing agri-development projects, said Ms Lan. Agricultural production in Myanmar is low despite the abundance of water and fertile land, with output per worker of only about $1300, half that of Thailand and Indonesia, accord-

A farmer sows paddy fields in Pathein township, Ayeyarwady Region. Photo: Ko Taik

ing to a McKinsey report released on May 30. Myanmar has a total of 12.25 million hectares of arable land and permanent crops, the 25th largest endowment in the world. The full growth potential of agriculture is critical to ensuring the countrys economy, as 52

percent of the workforce is employed in agriculture, the report said. Leaders at the World Economic Forum held in early June in Nay Pyi Taw also urged investment in agriculture. Putting a big focus on agriculture right now is key, said Helen Clark, co-chair of the forum. You can get a

quick win for poverty eradication. The governments 2013-2014 financial budget law of March 29 states taht the agricultural sector earned income of K15.359 trillion (US$16 billion) last year, amounting to 31.8pc of GDP. It projected growth of 3.3pc this year.

JOB VACANCY
TMI ASSOCIATES is the one of the largest law firms in Japan. Its Myanmar subsidiary, TMI ASSOCIATES SERVICES CO., LTD., opened the first office of any Japanese law firm in Yangon in October 2012, and we are looking for a Myanmar lawyer with the following qualifications who wishes to work with Japanese and other lawyers and worldwide clients.
(1) Fluent skills in speaking, reading and writing English (2) Excellent computer skills (3) Lawyer licensed in Myanmar (4) Good personality and in good health Interested lawyers can send their CVs to our P.O Box No.711 until 5 July 2013. Note: 1* Only candidates who satisfy our requirements and who we wish to interview will be contacted regarding an interview. 2* Application documents will not be returned.

TMI ASSOCIATES SERVICES CO., LTD.

8 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Win Aung retains UMFCCI presidency

SAN YAMIN AUNG
sanyaminaung@gmail.com

SANCTIONED businessman U Win Aung has retained his position as the head of the nations leading business body in an election that some members are calling a sham. The Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) held its first democratic elections at its headquarters on June 15. However, the vote was marred by a computer failure and allegations that election had been set up so that incumbent executive committee (EC) members would be returned.

I think a person who can improve the image of the federation should be in the top position.
Daw Khin Khin Kyawt UMFCCI member

U Kyaw San, the secretary of the commission that organised the vote, said that 199 members had self-nominated for EC posts, of whom 69 were elected for three-year terms. Another 69 spots on the EC were filled by rep-

resentatives of UMFCCI-affiliated associations and federations. Fifty-six people were elected to the central executive committee, 20 of whom will hold senior posts in the UMFCCI. The election replaced a system where senior members were handpicked by the Minister for Commerce. There are 896 members who are eligible to vote and around 600 of them attended the election. That is a good result, he said. The votes were to be counted electronically so that the result would be known truly and timely, U Kyaw San said. However, a computer glitch meant they had to be recounted by hand, which meant the election did not finish until about 3am on June 16. It is very important the election is free, fair and open. All members had the right to vote for the person they liked this is the democratic way, said economist U Aung Htun Thet, who was a member of commission that organised the vote. Others, however, saw it differently. I knew that the election would not be transparent when they said the computer system had broken down, said Daw Khin Khin Kyawt. The head of San Aung Imaging and a UMFCCI member since 1995, she had nominated herself for a position on the EC. U Khin Hlaing of Zawtika Company said that the result had been orchestrated by the incumbent EC members. I saw a list of 69 people [up for election to the EC] that had been distributed prior to the vote. I noticed that most members just voted for people on that list, said U Khin Hlaing, who has been a UMFCCI member since 2006 and self-nominated for a

A UMFCCI member votes at the organisations election on June 15. Photo: Thiri

position on the EC. He also questioned why only 3 percent of UMFCCI members took part in the vote. There are more than 20,000 members in the UMFCCI and only about 600 came to vote. I dont want to blame the commission because it is only allowed to analyse and count the ballots. They dont have the authority to analyse the qualifications of a nominee, he said. Under the election rules, all members who joined the UMFCCI prior to

March 31 were eligible to vote. However, they had to formally express an interest in voting, and only 876 members completed this procedure, U Khin Hlaing said. He added that they declared the election on June 9 and the deadline to register to vote or self-nominate for the EC was June 12, despite the federations rules stating that members must have 21 days advance notice. Daw Khin Khin Kyawt said it was bad for the federations image that an individual who was the subject of

international economic sanctions was allowed to be president. The UMFCCI is an important vehicle for the countrys redevelopment. It can do many things in the business sector. I think a person who can improve the image of the federation should be in the top position, she said. The re-elected president, U Win Aung, co-founder of Dagon International Ltd, remains on the United States Specially Designated Nationals list, which prohibits US nationals and businesses from having ties with him.

TIME cover sparks outrage

CHERRY THEIN t.cherry6@gmail.com TIME magazine has sparked outrage in Myanmar with the cover of its July 1 edition, which depicts controversial Mandalay monk U Wirathu with the headline The Face of Buddhist Terror. The article detailed Buddhist extremism in Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka, arguing that [i]n the reckoning of religious extremism ... Buddhism has largely escaped trial. It quoted U Wirathu as saying in an interview that Muslims are breeding so fast, and they are stealing our women, raping them. They would like to occupy our country, but I wont let them. We must keep Myanmar Buddhist, he said. In a sermon mentioned in the article, he preaches that [n]ow is the time to rise up, to make your blood boil. But the front-page focus on Myanmars Buddhist community and U Wirathu of Masoeyein monastery, who has been accused of stoking anti-Muslim sentiment through the 969 campaign, angered many and they quickly took to Facebook to share their views. While the TIME article is behind a paywall, both the original English version and Myanmar-language translations were circulating by email and social media last week. By midday on June 22, the page We Boycott Time magazine for their choice of Wirathu as Buddhist terror had attracted more than 10,000 likes and become an outlet to criticise both TIME and the author of the article, Hannah Beech. One Facebook user, Aung Ko U, commented that he severely object[s] to the article as it insults not only U Wirathu but also our Buddhism. Even though I havent read the full story, its so clear unfair portrayal, he said. Another Facebook user, Ko Min Aung, said he was too sad to speak after seeing the photo. I dont agree with all his ideas but Im not going to criticise him because he didnt harm anyone personally. Internationally he might look like a Buddhist extremist but he just preaches to respect Buddhism, he said. In an interview with The Myanmar Times shortly after the article was published, U Wirathu questioned why TIME did not also label United States President Barack Obama a terrorist for his campaigns against Muslim extremists in the Middle East. Myanmar-based daily publications were equally critical of the magazine, with many splashing the TIME cover on the front page of their June 21 editions. Eleven Media Group chief executive officer U Than Htut Aung wrote in The Daily Eleven said he didnt agree with many things U Wirathu has said but the monk has not committed any violent acts. In my opinion as a journalist the TIME presentation of Buddhism is not fair. It is an insult to our country and Buddhism and I object to it. What is more, TIME has disturbed our transition to democracy and provoked more conflict, he wrote. However, the Eleven boss said he agreed with some points in the article, including the importance of separating religion from government and that Buddhist extremism has negatively impacted Muslim businesses. Academic Maung Zarni said the article itself was mostly commendable but made two seriously negative contributions to Myanmars already tense and insecure society. First, it will most likely add more fuel to the already tense social relations, instigating, unwittingly, future ... anti-Muslim violence by the now really outraged Buddhist masses as evidenced in the angry reactions from Myanmars opinion makers and leading dissidents, he said in a post on his blog. Second, it enables, if unwittingly, the state and its central management ... to continue concealing its own involvement in numerous disguises. It was unclear whether hard copies of the magazine would go on sale in Myanmar. U Maung Maung Lwin, the general manager of Innwa Bookstore on Pansodan Road, declined to comment on the cover image or article. We havent got TIME magazine for July yet and I havent read it, he said.

Four people charged over Orchid Hotel row

SHWEGU THITSAR khaingsabainyein@gmail.com A FURIOUS row has broken out between the management and four former employees of Yangons Orchid Hotel, including the general manager, amid a mass walkout by staff and accusations of embezzlement that the accused say are trumped up. U Khin Maung Lwin, the former general manager of the hotel, in Anawrahta Road in downtown Yangon, is accused of misusing hotel funds and faces two charges of criminal breach of trust under section 408 of the Penal Code, which carries a potential jail sentence of seven years. He is said to have withdrawn K5 million from the hotel in February without notifying his superiors. Along with former chief accountant Ma Khin Zarni Zaw and two others, he is also a suspect in the alleged disappearance of K12 million, said a spokesperson for the police at Pazundaung township, adding that charges have already been laid. The charges come after about 30 hotel staff, including Ma Khin Zarni Zaw, resigned en masse in early May. They say they resigned because they heard they would be fired to reduce costs over the rainy season, when occupancy normally falls. But the hotels managing director, U Htay Aung, rejected the allegations. The staff at our hotel are happy and united in their work. We treat all staff members equally. But anyone who commits a crime will be punished, he said. U Htay Aung said he went to the police after an external audit found K12 million missing. He had called in the auditors after Ma Khin Zarni Zaw and her accounts staff resigned on May 3. They quit without notice and without handing over their duties. We wrote to them three times asking them to hand over the accounts because we couldnt close the monthly balance sheet and they didnt leave the computer password, he said. We waited for them for 49 days but they didnt turn up. Not only did they not come back to the office, they even made personal comments [to the media], he said. Also accused are accounts staff Daw Ni Ni Tun and Daw Thida Aye. But the former staff members say the criminal accusations are the result of a grudge against them. I worked at the Orchid for three years as a dutiful member of staff until the day they fired me on May 6, U Khin Maung Lwin said. During Thingyan the staff had to work overtime and I authorised overtime pay as called for by the labour laws. We had more foreign guests this year, and so needed more staff. But U Htay Aung was unhappy when he saw the overtime bill and said it was too high. U Khin Maung Lwin said he was dismissed a few days after the sudden departure of the accounts staff, who had left their letters of resignation on the reception counter. He said the management had accused him of sheltering them. I dont mind so much being fired. But what worries us is his threat that [U Htay Aung] would stop us finding work elsewhere, said U Khin Maung Lwin. One of the staff members who resigned said: [U Htay Aung] dismissed some staff who were not at fault because the hotels income is low during the rainy season. Some staff decided to quit before they were fired. U Htay Aung plotted to report this to the police because he harbours a grudge. Translated by Thiri Min Htun

Why are they saying Wirathu is a terrorist? What I am doing, saying and writing is for the sake of national security.
U Wirathu Monk from Masoeyein monastery

Why are they saying Wirathu is a terrorist? What I am doing, saying and writing is for the sake of national security, just as Obama is doing, U Wirathu said. He said that TIME should not have linked Buddhism and terrorism on their cover. I do not plan to make any response to TIME magazine but I need to explain about this issue, he said. I dont have any support from the government, political parties or Sangha [monastic order]. I am working because of my faith.

www.mmtimes.com

News 9

Bangladesh does deal on repatriation

However, return of undocumented Myanmar nationals under a controversial stalled repatriation program appears far from certain

TIM MCLAUGHLIN
timothy.mclaughlin3@gmail.com

BANGLADESHS foreign minister says Myanmar has agreed in principle to restart a long-delayed voluntary repatriation program for Muslim refugees living in the country, although he conceded that it may not eventuate. Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mohammad Shahidul Haque said Myanmar and Bangladesh reached an agreement to resume the program during annual foreign office consultations in Nay Pyi Taw from June 12-17. Past repatriation efforts drew criticism from international human rights groups but Mr Haque insisted the process would be voluntary. Muslim Rohingya refugees would only return under safe conditions to Rakhine State, where two outbreaks of violence in the past 12 months between Buddhists and Muslims have left about 200 dead. We have encouraged the Myanmar government to restart the process. They have agreed and are looking for an appropriate time to restart the process, Mr Haque told The Myanmar Times on June 15. We would like to see the Myanmar nationals who are in Bangladesh return under safe conditions, voluntarily, back to their home. They can start a healthy and productive life in their own country, Mr Haque said.

He added, however, that a timeframe for the implementation of the process has not yet been agreed upon and was contingent on many factors. Dhaka has been pushing for a resumption of the program since Myanmar refused to extend the original agreement past 2005. The vague language and lack of firm dates for the commitment does not augur well for the process, which has pitted Myanmar and Bangladesh against each other over where the Muslim Rohingya refugees should be permanently resettled.

We would like to see them return under safe conditions, voluntarily.

Mohammad Shahidul Haque Bangladesh Foreign Seceretary

Myanmar refuses to recognise the Rohingya as an ethnic group, calling them instead Bengalis and describing them as illegal immigrants from Bangladesh who arrived during the British occupation. However, Bangladesh does not recognise the term either and objected to its use during the interview insisting instead that they be called

undocumented Myanmar nationals. Large numbers of Rohingya entered Bangladesh in 1978 and again in 1991-92, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) says. More fled to Bangladesh during clashes in Rakhine State during October and June of last year, although many were turned back. The repatriation process started following the 1991-92 influx after UNHCR helped broker a deal between Myanmar and Bangladesh. However, UNHCR pulled out of the program in December 1992 over concerns that there was a lack of security for those returning to Myanmar. It also found cases of forced repatriation and the Bangladesh government blocked its access to refugee camps. The agency returned the following year when it signed a new agreement with both the Bangladesh and Myanmar governments to monitor repatriations and between mid-1992 and 1997, more than 230,000 Rohingya were repatriated. But the process stopped completely in July 2005 when the Myanmar government refused to extend the deadline for the original agreement and continued to block some repatriation efforts. Plans to restart it in 2009 stalled when about 9000 refugees cleared for repatriation refused to return to Myanmar. Bangladesh estimates there are about 26,000 documented refugees living in two camps in Coxs Bazar, close to the Myanmar border. Minister for Foreign Affairs Dipu Moni told

Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mohammad Shahidul Haque. Photo: Myo Lwin

a session of parliament in June that 300,000 to 500,000 Myanmar refugees have entered the country illegally. Mr Haque said Bangladesh has also proposed the formation of a joint committee to look for solutions to border issues, with Bangladesh offering to host the first round of meetings. Myanmar is yet to respond to the offer, he said. While Mr Haque insisted that relations between the two countries are excellent and that the situation on the border is good, recent developments appear to contradict this, with both sides having recently taken steps to reinforce their positions. We have approved, in principle, the proposal to construct a barbed

wire [fence] along the BangladeshMyanmar border, set up searchlights, [and] build watchtowers and 21 new outposts to improve border surveillance, the Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladeshs Home Minister Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir as telling parliament on June 10. He also said that there was a proposal to add two additional battalions of Border Guard Bangladesh forces to the area. On June 11, the director general of Border Guard Bangladesh, Major General Aziz Ahmed, also accused the Tatmadaw of planting landmines within 100 metres of the border, in violation of international laws. Mr Haque would not comment directly on Bangladeshs border security measures but said Dhaka planned to follow the India-Bangladesh border model, which does include security measures. He also denied any knowledge of the landmine issue and said that the allegations were not discussed during his meetings. The rise in anti-Muslim sentiment in Myanmar and outbreaks of violence toward the religious minority has drawn international condemnation, most recently from the UN and the European Union. It also continues to be a regional concern, with violence spilling into neighbouring Malaysia, but Mr Haque said that he was unaware of anti-Muslim feeling in Myanmar. I dont see any anti-Muslim sentiments, Mr Haque said.

10 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Committee agrees on 88 political prisoners after cross-checking lists

NAW SAY PHAW WAA
nawsayphawwaa@gmail.com

Villagers work at a mine dump near the Letpadaung mine project in Sagaing Region on September 14, 2012. Photo: AFP

A COMMITTEE has identified at least 88 political prisoners still in Myanmar prisons but the number is likely to rise as more lists from oppositiion groups are cross-checked against government records. The committee was formed in February to oversee the release of all political prisoners. Chaired by Minister for the Presidents Office U Soe Thein, it also includes representatives from many civil society, political and activist groups. Committee member U Ye Aung told The Myanmar Times last week that the 88 prisoners had been identified at a meeting at the Myanmar Peace Center on June 16 and their names sent to Deputy Minister for the Presidents Office U Aung Thein. He said U Aung Thein had provided several groups, including the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), 88 Generation and Former Political Prisoners, with a list of 200 political prisoners. Eighty-eight of these matched names on their collective list, which has 155 names. The other 67 prisoners have not been included yet, U Ye Aung said. U Soe Thein said the process was ongoing and

reiterated an earlier pledge made by President U Thein Sein that all political prisoners would be freed, said committee member U Nyo Tun. U Soe Thein promised that political prisoners will be released ... after they have scrutinised all of the lists. The committee doesnt have the authority to release them but U Soe Thein said at the meeting that he will submit the names to the president and then the president will release them, U Nyo Tun said. U Soe Thein also told reiterated President U Thein Seins commitment that those amnestied under section 401 of the Code of Criminal Procedure would not have to finish their original sentence if they end up in jail again. Even if there is a case like that, the committee will discuss how to deal with them, U Nyo Tun said. National League for Democracy spokesman U Nyan Win from National League for Democracy (NLD) told The Myanmar Times that 70 individuals from the partys list of 142 political prisoners matched up with the governments records. He said that section 401 would still be used to release prisoners in future. But it will not be used to keep political prisoners in jail if they are arrested again, he said. The committee will continue to meet each month to identify political prisoners for release.

Letpadaung activists face charges over interview

MARIA DANMARK
mariadn@mail.dmjx.dk

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a Japanese governmental organization mainly responsible for implementing technical cooperation in developing countries and an executing agency of Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA), Myanmar Office is seeking an Administrative Assistant for its expanded works in Myanmar. Job Description: The Administrative Assistant will work closely with respective Japanese Staff and Administrative Officer and be responsible for:- assisting in administrative and general affairs of the office (including Document Management, Security Management and Immigration Management, etc.) - assisting in Office IT management - handling in operation and logistic matters - assisting in operation of NGO-JICA Japan Desk including library and meeting facilities Eligible candidate should possess following qualifications; - University Graduate - Fluent in English (reading, writing, speaking) - Age less than 40 years - Ability to work in a team and maintain harmonious relationship - More than 5 years working experience in the organization/s - Good computer skills and knowledge of Word, Excel & Power Point (having experience in Computer Networking will be advantages) Duration of Assignment: From March 2013, yearly renewal upon satisfactory performance How to apply: Qualified and interested persons are requested to send the applications with updated C.V, educational credentials and references to JICA Myanmar Office, Room 701, 7th Floor, Sakura Tower, No. 339, Bokyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, not later than 12 July 2013. Note: Only short listed candidates will be contacted for subsequent interviews.

POLICE have issued a warrant to arrest three activists who have helped to coordinate protests at the Letpadaung mine on charges that appear to stem from comments they made to local reporters. Ko Moe Thway, Ko Wai Lu and Ko Wai Hmuu Thwin are accused of incitement under section 505(b) of the Penal Code, which carries a potential two-year jail term. The police have told us to go to Monywa police station by June 23 to turn ourselves in. If we dont, they will come to Yangon and arrest us, said Ko Moe Thway from Generation Wave, adding that he has no intention of going to Monywa. Second Police Lieutenant Khin Zaw Latt from Monywa police station confirmed the arrest order had been issued on June 20. News of the order arrived shortly after the trio held a press conference in Yangon on June 20 to discuss land tenure rights in the Letpadaung area. We didnt do anything related to protesting or breaking any laws. The only thing we did was have an interview with the media. We really have to worry if people can be arrested for just making comments in an interview. This is a serious

setback in our countrys democratic transition, Ko Moe Thway said. The three say they travelled to Monywa to help calm tensions after unrest broke out between police and villagers near the mine project on April 25. Villagers tried to plough their fields but the local police tried to stop them. People got wounded and the police arrested an activist and two villagers and also issued a warrant for eight other activists and villagers. As a consequence of that case, villagers were afraid of police raids ... and the possibility of more violence, Ko Moe Thway said.

We really have to worry if people can be arrested just for making an interview.
Ko Moe Thway Member of Generation Wave

During their trip, the three activists went out to meet and consult residents about their demands. They sent their findings to Sagaing Region Chief Minister U Tha Aye, the chairman of the Letpadaung mining project implementation committee, Minister for the Presidents Office U Hla Tun, and two other government minis-

ters, U Aung Min and U Ohn Myint. While we were in Monywa, we were asked for an interview by some local reporters. Some police from the Special Branch were nearby and closely watched our interview, Moe Thway said. We gave our opinions and mainly explained about the local police using section 144 of the [Code of Criminal Procedure] to keep villagers from entering their fields near the mining project. For me personally, I gave the comment that people have been living on the land for many generations and have the right to not sell their land, if they dont want to. But the government and the mine company just occupied the land anyhow and that is against democratic values. The police seem to think that our comments and opinions in the interview were disrespectful to them and the government, so they proposed that the court charge us, he said. Under section 505(b) it is a crime to commit an act with intent to cause, or in a manner that is likely to cause fear or alarm the public or any section of the public, whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the State or against public tranquillity. U Bo Kyi, joint secretary at the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP), said he was concerned that section 505(b) could be used to lock up activists. [It] is very broad. People should be allowed to do interviews. It is freedom of expression, he said, adding that he had sent a letter to the president about the case.

PSI Myanmar 16 West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon Tel: 95 1 375 854-58, Fax: 95 1 527 668

JOB ANNOUNCEMENT 20 June 2013

Population Services International (PSI)/Myanmar is a non-profit, non-political and non-sectarian organization. PSI/Myanmar has been implementing health programs throughout the country for the past eighteen years. PSI/Myanmar seeks entrepreneurial, results-driven candidates for the position of Program Director for Tuberculosis. The Program Director- Tuberculosis is responsible for the strategic leadership of PSIs globally recognized TB program in Myanmar. This will include managing donor contracts for tuberculosis programs, coordinating the implementation of said programs through the PSIs Operational Departments and ensuring that deliverables are achieved on time, within budget and in full compliance with donor contracts. He/she reports to the Country Director. He/she should be at least 5 years experience managing health programs at the national and/or international level and broad general knowledge of TB diagnosis and treatment, and must have exceptional English language skills. Advanced university degree is preferred. Please submit applications to HR Department; No.16, West Shwe Gone Dine 4th Street, Bahan Township, Yangon. Email: hr@psimyanmar.org Last date for application: 8 July 2013 (MONDAY)

Monks warn of possible return to military rule

CHERRY THEIN t.cherry6@gmail.com MONKS who coordinated the 2007 protests have issued a statement saying they are concerned that recent internal unrest will result in a return to military rule. In the June 10 statement, the monks said they wanted to warn the public that problem makers were seeking to create unrest to bring back a military government. The release said this unidentified group created religious and racial conflict in Rakhine State, which spread to Lashio in northern Shan State last month. The conflict has also seen Myanmar workers in Malaysia killed. U Thein Seins government remains weak, the statement said, and the hluttaw should impose laws that protect people regardless of race and religion. Members of the network of monks are anxious that U Thein Seins government might be toppled by the military as U Nus was in 1962. They requested all citizens be alert, and share true information and loving kindness in public regardless of race or religion. It stressed the need to work together for harmonious coexistance to stop the conflict. We worked to resolve a series of problems, starting with the Thaketa case [and in] Meiktila, Okkan and Lashio. We found that people of all faiths have no urge to seek revenge they are being [misled] by rumours, said the Venerable U Pyanna Wontha, who is a member of the network that released the statement.

www.mmtimes.com

News 11

NLD security denies assault allegations

Pyin Oo Lwin police investigate after woman files complaint against four people
SI THU LWIN sithulwin.mmtimes@gmail.com ONE of the National League for Democracy security officials accused of assault has denied using excessive force to stop a woman from submitting a complaint letter to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. As The Myanmar Times reported last week, Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung alleges she was assaulted on June 10 in Pyin Oo Lwins Inn Htite Oo village, where Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was staying during her visit to the town earlier this month. Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung has filed a formal complaint with police, an officer in Pyin Oo Lwins Wetwun village confirmed, and four people are facing charges of voluntary hurt, outraging a womans modesty and criminal intimidation. The case was opened against three females and one male. We are now investigating, said Second Police Officer Than Htike. Daw Cho Cho Aye, an NLD member who was on security duty when the incident occurred and is facing three charges, denied assaulting Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung. We were on security duty and we were not letting any party members visit. All we did was block [Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung] because she tried to force her way in. A party member was Maung stood by her version of events last week. She said she filed the complaint with police after being treated in hospital for three days. My stomach swelled and my chest and fingers were beaten, she said. Now [the police] have started examining the case. My blouse was torn [during the altercation] and ... the investigating officer [has] it. The altercation occurred a day after Daw Aung San Suu Kyi held a public rally in Pyin Oo Lwin. Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung wanted to inform the party leader about her lawsuit against NLD Pyithu Hluttaw representative for Pyin Oo Lwin U Kyaw Thiha, who she says is the father of her child. She has accused him of failing to uphold a promise to pay child support and the case is currently before the district court. U Kyaw Thiha has admitted to paying Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda Maung K400,000 compensation about a decade ago but says the accusations are fabricated by people in the party who want to destroy his reputation. Translated by Thit Lwin

U Win Cho attaches a cross made from bullets to a car before departing Mandalay for Laiza in Kachin State on June 16. Photo: Khin Su Wai

Cross, Buddha made from bullets heading to Laiza

KHIN SU WAI jasminekhin@gmail.com A GROUP of peace activists last week left Mandalay for Laiza in Kachin State by car with a Buddha image and a Christian cross both made from bullets fired in the Kachin conflict. About 10 people set out for the Kachin Independence Organisation capital on June 16. They were part of a 22-member group that earlier this year walked from Yangon to Laiza, where the bullets used to make the statues were collected. We estimate that well get there in three days but we cant say exactly, said the groups leader, U Win Cho. If residents in towns along the way ask us to stay with them for a night so they can make a devotional offering we wont refuse, he said. The Christian cross took seven days to make and the Buddha image about one month, he said. Both weigh about 22.4 kilograms (49.4 pounds) and are 69 centimetres (27 inches) high. The Buddha image was consecrated at Mandalays Mahamuni Pagoda, while prayers will be offered to the cross in Laiza, he said.

All we did was block her because she tried to force her way in ... she ran at us with force and we pushed her back.
Daw Cho Cho Aye NLD member, Pyin Oo Lwin

injured because she threw a stone with the letter and it hit his hand, Daw Cho Cho Aye said. She ran at us with force and we pushed her back, holding each others hands. We didnt beat her in any way, she said. But Daw Khine Wutyay Thanda

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi slams marriage law draft

DAW Aung San Suu Kyi has criticised a proposal by nationalist monks to restrict marriages between Buddhist women and men of other faiths, describing it as a violation of human rights, a report said last week. This is one-sided. Why only women? You cannot treat the women unfairly, Radio Free Asia quoted the Nobel Peace Laureate as saying in an interview on June 21. I also understand that this is not in accordance with the laws of the country and especially that it is not part of Buddhism, she said. It is a violation of womens rights and human rights. Under the proposal spearheaded by the controversial Mandalay cleric U Wirathu non-Buddhist men wishing to marry a Buddhist woman would have to convert and gain permission from her parents to wed or risk 10 years in jail. The idea was raised at a recent meeting of more than 200 monks called to discuss a surge in Buddhist-Muslim violence in the former junta-ruled country. U Wirathu said the law was needed because Buddhist girls have lost freedom of religion when they married Muslim men. Senior clerics have distanced themselves from the proposal while womens rights groups have voiced opposition. AFP

12 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

ILO lifts Myanmar restrictions

TIM MCLAUGHLIN timothy.mclaughlin3@gmail.com THE International Labour Organizations decision to remove its restrictions against Myanmar was welcomed by the government last week and is expected to boost foreign investment and trade. The decision was made on June 18, two days before the end of the International Labour Conference, which opened in Geneva on June 5. The resolution adopted by the conference recognises the progress made in Myanmar and lifts all ILO restrictions on Myanmar, said a statement issued on June 18. It calls on ILO member states to provide financial support for the elimination of forced labour and invites the governing body to review the situation in Myanmar on issues relating to ILO activities, including freedom of association and the impact of foreign investment on decent working conditions in the country. The ILO placed restrictions on Myanmar in 1999 and 2000 after the country failed to act on its recommendations on forced labour. Some restrictions were lifted in June 2012. Last weeks decision means Myanmars application of the ILO Forced Labour Convention will no longer have to be discussed at special sittings of the conference and the ILO will no longer recommend its members review their relations with Myanmar. The remaining restrictions have been lifted because Myanmar carried out pragmatic measures, including legislation, for eliminating forced labour in the country and has achieved good results, the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security said in a statement. The move was lauded abroad as well. I welcome this move by the ILO to remove restrictions on Burma in recognition of the progress made there in recent years, said British Foreign Minister Hugo Swire. Coming off the back of last weeks announcement by the [European Union] that Burma would be a preferred trade partner this is further evidence that the international community is positively encouraging Burmas efforts towards reform, Mr Swire said, referring to the EU decision to readmit Myanmar to its generalised system of preferences (GSP) trade scheme for developing countries.

A student covers her nose as a health worker fumigates an area outside a school building in Yangon in 2007. Photo: AFP

Dengue cases soar in Yangon

YAMON PHOO THIT
yamon89@gmail.com

EXPERTS are warning that 2013 is likely to see high numbers of dengue fever cases and warned that it poses a risk to all people, regardless of their age. Already more than 4000 cases have been reported, the Ministry of Health said, and experts are predicting a repeat of 2010 when there more than 16,000 cases and 100 deaths. Five children have died from dengue haemorrhagic fever in Myanmar so far this year. Based on the high infection rate so far, we think that this years total will be as high as 2010, said Dr Ni Ni Aye, the deputy director of the Ministry of Healths Dengue Department. Most of the infections reported this year were in children aged five to nine years, Dr Ni Ni Aye said. However, there have also been cases in people aged 15 years and above. Compared to previous years,

more adults have been infected with dengue, she said. Dengue cases are on the rise across the region, with Singapore reporting more than 10,000 infections and two deaths. In Thailand, more than 40,000 had been infected and 50 killed as of June 11, and a recent survey by Thailands Ministry of Public Health put the number of cases in Southeast Asia at more than 126,000. Dr Zaw Than Tun, a liver specialist at New Yangon General Hospital, said it would be difficult to know the true number of adult cases because some will seek treatment at private clinics. Children under 15 years of age can only be admitted to a childrens hospital. Those over 15 can go to either a government or private hospital so it will be difficult to get the exact data, he said. He said that while infection is more common in children under 15 years of age, adults should also be aware of the risk of contracting dengue. We just want to remind adults that they can also be infected. Many dont realise that they have the same chance, he said.

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of the Aedes mosquito. It cannot be spread directly from one person to another. The mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person with the dengue virus in their blood. Dengue fever is most common from June to August when the mosquitoes are more common. There

4000
The number of confirmed cases of dengue fever so far this year are four strains of dengue virus and adults can develop dengue fever if they are infected with one of the more severe strains. The symptoms of dengue infection in adults are different from those in children and sometimes milder, Dr Zaw Than Tun said.

Adults can suffer joint and muscle pain, headaches, vomiting and abdominal pain, he said. When adults have got an illness without any [flu symptoms, such as] sneezing, coughing or a sore throat, it could be dengue fever, he said. While it is more dangerous for children than adults, he said all people with dengue-like symptoms should seek treatment at their nearest clinic or hospital and have a blood test to confirm if they are infected. In order to reduce the chances of infection, the Ministry of Health recommends cleaning areas where mosquitoes can breed and protecting against mosquito bites by taking measures such as sleeping under a bed net. Everyone, regardless of their age, should avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, she said. Once infected, people should go to the hospital promptly. Thats the only way to reduce dengue-related deaths. Dengue fever was first detected in Myanmar in 1969. In 1970, 1065 cases and 90 deaths were detected. In 2011, 3016 cases were reported, with 5060 cases in 2012.

LOGISTICS MEDIA SERVICES CO.,LTD. YANGON HEADQUARTER: Tel: (951) 554776, 559768, (959) 73122556, Fax: (951) 559768 Email: sales@logimedia.com.mm MANDALAY BRANCH: Tel: (952) 74460, (959) 91023733, 91024733, 2036302

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News 13

Ministry to roll out clinics to cut child mortality

YAMON PHU THIT yamon89@gmail.com CHILDREN under the age of five will soon be able to benefit from free healthcare and prevention programs at every public hospital and clinic in Myanmar, a Ministry of Health official said last week. Formal approval for the program was granted at a coordination meeting in Nay Pyi Taw on June 14, the official said. The program, which will be conducted after raising the health budget for this financial year, aims to reduce the number of under-five deaths, said Dr Than Htaik, medical superintendent of Yangon Childrens Hospital. The Ministry of Health is aiming to improve average life expectancy to 70 years so it is important to protect against unnecessary deaths of children, he said. In order to provide better health care, protection and treatment to children, each government hospital and clinic will have to establish a separate section to cater to underfives. The facilities will offer free regular medical check-ups and treatment if health problems are detected. We will assess nutritional status, the childs growth, weight, height and more, Dr Than Htaik said. We also plan to provide education to parents. The whole program
A participant takes a photo on a smart phone at the UNICEF report launch on June 14. Photo: Ko Taik

Disabled children excluded from education, says UNICEF

YAMON PHU THIT yamon89@gmail.com DISABLED children are being excluded from mainstream education and segregated in special schools, a United Nations Children Funds report says. The State of the Worlds Children, a report launched in Myanmar on June 14, has found that children with disabilities confront additional challenges as a result of their impairments and the many barriers that society throws in their way. Children living in poverty are among the least likely to enjoy the benefits of education and healthcare. However, poor children with disabilities have far greater risk, the report said. In Myanmar, the Department of Social Welfare, nongovernmental organisations and other private schools provide special education, adaptive daily living training and vocational training. Of the 2.32 percent of the population in Myanmar that have a disability, 24pc, or about 318,000, are children under 16 years of age, and 249,000 are school age. However, just 800 children with disabilities go to government schools and 1450 children attend special schools, Ministry of Education figures from 2010 show. Rather than segregating children with disabilities in special schools, inclusive education entails educating all students within the regular school system, according to the report. Myanmar adopted all-inclusive education in 2001 and this policy was reinforced by Deputy Minister for Education U Ba Shwe at the report launch, which was held at Yangons Aung San Stadium. Schools should accommodate all children regardless of their physical, intellectual, social, emotional, linguistic and other conditions, he said. Sporting events for people with disabilities were also held at the stadium to mark the launch. U Myat Thu Win, president of Shwe Min Thar Foundation, which has supported about 120 children with disabilities to further their education, called for better implementation of policies that aim to improve the lives of children with disabilities. Meeting the rights of the children with disabilities is not the work of a single ministry. It needs multi-sectoral and concerted efforts by all stakeholders in the government, non-government and international community, U Myat Thu Win said. Sai Wan Kham, a 13-yearold child with autism, said he joined the government school in Mayangone township to attend sixth grade after studying at the School for Disabled Children run by the Department of Social Welfare. He said that most of his friends at the School for Disabled Children did not have the opportunity to attend a mainstream school. My friends from the School for Disabled Children are now learning to count, to take part in sports, arts and crafts, painting and other life skills, he said, adding socialising with other children at the mainstream school was difficult. At the ceremony UNICEFs country representative, Bertrand Bainvel, called for greater protection, more involvement in society and all-inclusive education for children with disabilities. Children with disabilities are not problems, but abandonment, neglect and discrimination in response are the problems, Mr Bainvel said.

aims to ensure childrens health is looked after properly. However, he cautioned that the program would only be successful if parents did their part. The program will be successful if the parents come to us. Only prevention can reduce the child mortality rate. In order to implement the program for children and buy medicine to provide free treatment to patients, the ministrys budget for 2013-14 has increased to more than K400 billion (about US$425 million). The ministry is providing funding to hospitals based on their size, with K900,000 a bed for 16-bed hospitals and K1.5 million a bed for 25-bed and above facilities. Meanwhile, rural health clinics will receive a flat K900,000 and township health departments K2 million. The Yangon Childrens Hospital has 550 beds, so we will receive K825 million this financial year, Dr Than Htaik said. This is far greater than last year, when we received K150 million. About 56,000 children under the age of five die every year in Myanmar, UNICEF said in its Situation Analysis of Children in Myanmar 2012 report. The infant mortality rate is estimated at 37.5 for every 1000 live births and the under-five mortality rate is 46.1 for every 1000 live births.

14 News
SPECIAL REPORT: U BEIN BRIDGE

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Taungthaman boat drivers happy with this years tourist haul

SHWE WAR LWIN shwewarlwin.mmt@gmail.com BOAT drivers at Amarapuras iconic U Bein Bridge say business is up by as much as 50 percent this year thanks to Myanmars tourism boom. The boatmen who ply for business around the U Bein Bridge say they can make as much as K20,000 (US$25) from taking one boatload of tourists for a cruise, especially at sunset, under and around the bridge. This year we are seeing better income because the number of foreign tourists has increased, and those who earn their living relying on the U Bein Bridge get more income, said Ko Myint, who operates a boat on the lake next to the bridge. They love to photograph the bridge and the surrounding scenery from the boat. Sometimes, Ko Myint said, boatmen can make three or four trips a day. Foreign tourists pay about K5000 each to take a boat ride, about 10 times what Myanmar visitors pay. Only three or four tourists are allowed to be on a boat at any one time for safety reasons. A boat can carry at least 10 to 15 people, but for their safety, boats are allowed to take on three to four foreigners, Ko Myint said. At weekends and on holidays, there are a lot of local and foreign visitors. On those days, there are not enough boats, so each boat takes two or three trips. Large numbers of visitors come during the cooler months from November to January, when the water level is higher, the boatman said, with most tourists coming from France, Italy and Germany. However, even when the water levels are very low in the summertime, tourists still come. In the past, he said, a boat would get an average of one load of passengers a day. Now they get orders for several trips a day and travel companies even book in advance for group visits. Almost 50 boats ply the waters around U Bein Bridge. Translated by Thit Lwin

U Bein Bridge in Amarapura. Built around 1850, the bridge spans Taungthaman Lake. Photo: Phyo Wai Kyaw

U Bein Bridge at risk: locals

PHYO WAI KYAW pwkyaw@gmail.com THAN NAING SOE thennaingsoe@gmail.com U BEIN Bridge is falling down or could, if action is not taken to restore it, say local observers. The tourist attraction in Mandalays Amarapura township is at risk from the underwater erosion of its wooden support pillars. And at the same time, the beauty of the surrounding lake has diminished since it was used to breed fish, some say. U Nyein Win, the owner of Zegyo Thu restaurant on the banks of Taungthaman Lake, Amarapura township, Mandalay, told The Myanmar Times on April 6 that some of the teak support pillars of the bridge were seriously decayed. The bridge crosses Taungthaman Lake and was built more than 160 years ago, during the reign of King Bagan, using timber from the old royal palace at nearby Inwa. U Nyein Win also said that fish breeding in the lake over the past 18 years had led to a decline in the variety of aquatic species and the natural environment. The water in the lake has become stagnant since fish breeding began, which has led to decay at the base of the pillars Some parts of the bridge are not strong enough, he said. Some pillars have lost their bases and remain standing only because they are connected to other pillars by lateral bars, he said. The bridge is still safe to cross, but that might not last in the long term. The Ministry of Culture carries out some maintenance, but more should be done, said U Nyein Win. Mandalay Mayor U Aung Moung told local journalists in February he had no plans to clean the water or to bring in contractors to do so. U Nyein Win said that before fish breeding began the bridge was surrounded by beautiful sights in all three seasons. Seasonal crops of paddy and sunflower grew under the bridge. In summer, the lake turned into a creek and even bullock carts could cross the fields beneath the bridge. There was also a wide variety of fish species, instead of just greedy tilapia. Photographer Ko Nge Lay, who has been taking pictures of the bridge for the past nine years, said there were about three weak spots in the structure. People celebrating Thingyan used to shake the pillars during the festival. I dont think they realised how weak it is, he said. A clerk at the Ministry of Cultures Department of Archaeology, National Museum and Library said last week that the department will repair damaged sections of the bridge but the plan is still being finalised. The bridge is named after clerk U Bein, who organised construction of the almost 4000-foot-long structure, which is supported by 1086 pillars. Some of the original teak pillars have been replaced by concrete columns because of flood damage. The bridge is a popular tourist attraction, and its image features in local shops and restaurants.

The bridge was built more than 160 years ago using teak pillars from the old royal palace at Inwa.

Travel industry slams Myanmar tourists over rubbish

SHWE WAR LWIN shwewarlwin.mmt@gmail.com TRAVEL companies say have accused Amarapura residents and local tourists of carelessly dropping litter into Taungthaman Lake, beside the picturesque U Bein Bridge. Daw Khin Yu Swe, vice chair of the Mandalay branch of the Tourist Guide Association, said many people were ignoring signs put up by the archaeological department at the bridge that warn visitors not to drop litter. Local travellers and residents dont obey the rules. They dont want to carry their trash and put it in a rubbish bin so instead they drop it wherever they want while they are walking along the bridge, Daw Khin Yu Swe said. Because of this Taungthaman Lake is littered with all kinds of garbage. If there arent any food vendors on the bridge then it would be much cleaner, she said. U Bein Bridge is a major attraction for both foreign and Myanmar tourists in Mandalay Region. Situated about 15 kilometres south of the city proper, in Amarapura township, it spans Taungthaman Lake and is reputedly the longest teak bridge in the world. Foreigners dont litter at the lake it is local people, who lack discipline, railed Ko Win Zaw Oo, a freelance tour guide. He said previous efforts to tackle the problem had failed and tourist police were needed to enforce antilittering laws, which allow for on-thespot fines. Last year Mandalays tour guide association, tourism companies and boatmen collected garbage from underneath the bridge and pasted educational posters on the walls of rest stops along the bridge, he said. However, people were even littering as the volunteers were collecting rubbish. The posters were removed the following day and we dont know who did it. Some companies are so worried about the impact litter will have on the countrys image as a tourist destination that they are funding efforts to clean the lake. Starting from this month, we have appointed two workers to clean the lake, said Ma Ei Mon Ko of Diethelm Travel Myanmar. Every morning they place wastebaskets on the bridge and they empty them in the evening. She said the company also plans to put up vinyl signs urging people not to drop litter and added that educative talks should be conducted. But one resident said the problem was exacerbated by poor garbage collection near the lake. The garbage trucks dont often come to U Bein Bridge normally only once a month. When it comes, it doesnt collect all the garbage so the rest of the trash just sits in piles beside the lake, said the 40-year-old resident. And villagers throw away their garbage here and the wind blows it into the lake. Snack vendor Ma Aye, 27, said that most people who work around the lake understand the importance of keeping it clean. Vendors normally keep wastebaskets for our rubbish. However, travellers dont use the bins; they just drop the rubbish into the lake. We cant really stop them from doing it so we need the authorities to properly enforce the rules. Translated by Thit Lwin

Tour guides from the Mandalay branch of the Tourist Guide Association collect rubbish next to U Bein Bridge on June 8. Photo: Shwe War Lwin

www.mmtimes.com

News 15

Migrant workers miss out on health care

National Verification registration program has made it more difficult for migrant workers in Thailand to access healthcare programs

SOE SANDAR OO
ms.soesandaroo@gmail.com

MIGRANT workers in Thailand say a new registration system has made it harder for them to access health care, with more than 1.2 million thought to be without any form of cover. Under the National Verification program, which aims to register the millions of illegal migrant workers in Thailand, workers are supposed to have a percentage of their salary deducted and in return get a social security board card from the Ministry of Labour. However, few are able to access the social security program, sources say, and have to pay large sums for treatment in the private sector if they get sick or are injured. Prior to the launch of the program in 2009, registered workers could join the Ministry of Public Healths migrant worker healthcare program for 1900 baht (about US$60) a year, said Ko Yan Naing Soe, a driver at an ice factory in Mahachai in Samut Sakhon Province. If we have this card the cost of medical treatment at any hospital is just 30 baht [$1], he said. Under the new system, the social security board card costs 8 percent of a workers salary half of which is paid is to be paid by their employer, said U Chit San, who operates machinery in an ice factory in the machine sector. Employers are legally obligated to deduct 4pc from salaries and pay the

A migrant worker from Myanmar works on a Thai fishing boat in Sattahip in Thailands Rayong province. Photo: AFP

other 4pc but there is little enforcement, sources say. U Chit San said whether workers can get the card now depends on their employer and most are reluctant to pay for their employees health care. It is completely up to the boss. He has to do the social security card for all workers but in our factory he only did it for about one-fifth because he didnt

want to contribute 4pc for each person, U Chit San said. He said the Thai government also limits the number of social security board cards that it will issue to each employer based on the size of the business. Ko Moe Thee, a member of the Samutsakhon Reproductive Health Migrants Worker Centre at Mahachai, said the 4pc levy was also

unaffordable for most migrant workers. The employers also dont care about it. Because they dont have the social security card, the workers have to spend a lot if they are sick, he said. A spokesperson for the Migrant Worker Rights Network said access to affordable health care was the major difficulty for migrant workers in Thailand.

Most workers have no social security card and have to pay a high price for treatment at the hospital, he said. The Thai government does not have a permanent policy for Myanmar workers. It is constantly changing. He said most of the 6000 reported cases of human rights violations perpetrated against migrant workers in Thailand related to accident-related health issues. For example, in Thailand all vehicles have to have insurance in case there is an accident. But when Myanmar workers are in an accident, there is no compensation for them from the insurance company. One source said recent data indicated that just 10pc of the approximately 1.4 million registered Myanmar workers had a social security board card, leaving more than 1.2 million with no health cover. While in most cases it is because the employer does not want to pay to sign them up, some also miss out because they are working illegally for a different employer than the one with which they are registered or because their workplace is not legally registered. Language problems also mean employers have difficulty explaining the deductions to their workers, the source said. Even those who sign up for the program miss out on some of its main benefits. The pension included in the program requires 15 years of contributions and migrants are only eligible to work for four years. They also miss out on unemployment benefits because migrants have to return home if they do not have an employer for more than a week.

Government outlines priority climate change projects

AYE SAPAY PHYU ayephyu2006@gmail.com CLIMATE change will bring more extreme weather events but its impact in Myanmar can be reduced through a range of projects, says a report recently submitted to the United Nations. Myanmars first National Adaptation Programs of Action (NAPA) on climate change report was sent to the UN Framework Convention for Climate Change in May. The report highlighted 32 priority projects that the authors say urgently need to be implemented to reduce damage due to future climate change events. The report identified projects where urgent action was needed in the areas of agriculture, early warning systems, forestry, public health, water resources, coastal zones, energy and industry, and biodiversity. First priority was given to agriculture, early warning systems and forestry, with lower priority being given to public health and water resources, then coastal zones, energy and industry and biodiversity. U Tin Ngwe, a former director general of the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) and director of the NAPA project management team, said deforestation had increased Myanmars susceptibility to climate-related disasters. The early-warning sector is important to save lives and reduce losses. Lack of equipment for weather forecasting is still a challenge in the DMH. Thats why the sector is at the first priority level, U Tin Ngwe said. In agriculture, the report recommends mechanisation and new rice varieties to ensure food security in areas most vulnerable to climate change. It also calls for reforestation and improvements to weather observation capacity through a mobile weather radar system, which would provide earlier warnings of extreme weather events. The report stated that climaterelated hazards or extreme weather events, deforestation and diminishing water resources have already affected agriculture, water, energy, public health and natural resources. A temperature increase of 0.08 Celsius per decade had been observed across the whole country, and particularly in the northern and central regions, from 1951 to 2007. Extended dry seasons and increased temperatures have brought more droughts. In 2010, severe drought diminished village water sources across the country and severely impacted yields of peas, sugar cane, tomato, and rice. By 2100, the report said, the increase in temperature and other climate-related changes across the country will bring more extreme weather events, including cyclones, strong winds, floods, storm surges, intense rains, extreme high temperatures and drought. This in turn could affect employment and national income. Minister for Transport U Nyan Tun Aung said the implementation of the NAPA proposals would benefit rural communities and the nation by promoting sustainable development.

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that LOTTERIA CO., LTD. of 98-6, Galwol-Dong, Yongsan-Gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

(Reg: No. IV/3397/2012 ) in respect of goods/service in Classes 30, 32 & 43 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark will be dealt with according to law. U THAN WIN, B.Com, B.L. for LOTTERIA CO., LTD. By its Attorneys Ageless P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

16 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

EXCLUSIVE

Ministry eyeing new university of agriculture

SANDAR LWIN
sdlsandar@gmail.com

THE Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation is studying the possibility of establishing an agriculture university in Sagaing Regions Shwebo township, a source close to the project has told The Myanmar Times. The ministry has conducted a preliminary feasibility study into setting up the university, which would support the modernisation of the countrys agricultural sector. The ministry operates one agricultural university and seven institutes of agriculture, which produce about 200 agricultural graduates and 1500 agricultural diploma holders each year. Many find work in the public sector but opportunities are also likely to grow in the private

sector, said Dr Tun Sai, a veteran agriculturalist. It is good to open more universities for the agriculture sector, Dr Tun Sai said. Other countries have four or five agricultural universities but I think it would be better for those who go to an agricultural university to aim for work in the private agribusiness sector [as the government] cannot provide all the jobs to all graduates, he said, adding that he hoped graduates would also start their own businesses. He said the government has a responsibility to introduce policies that allow the agricultural sector to develop, and enable agriculture graduates to apply their knowledge. An assistant lecturer at Yezin Agricultural University in Nay Pyi Taw welcomed the plan to create a new university but said he was not in a hurry to transfer to the school. It is just because of my personal attachment to this university, he said.

Residents push to bring school into state system

PYAE THET PHYO pyaethetphyo87@gmail.com PARENTS are lobbying the government to take over responsibility for a community-funded school in Nay Pyi Taw. The school, in Lewe townships Shwe Pyi Thar village, was established in 1987. The cost of educating the 77 students enrolled at the school is met by collecting fees from students families. However, officials and residents want the state system to take over the school because it is facing a shortfall in funding. While the school hired two teachers last year, it could only afford one this year because of financial difficulties, Shwe Pyi Thar resident U Tin Soe said. Despite repeated requests and official recommendations for the school to be incorporated into the state-run education system dating back to 2011, residents say they have received no indication when or if the change will come. If [the school] can run as a government school, the education for our children will be better. We have to struggle to be able to run the school year after year because our village is poor, U Tin Soe said. If the school becomes a government-owned school, we wont need to hire teachers with our money, said another resident, U Sein Win. We can actually save some money instead. The current cost for families is

Students attend class at a communityfunded school in Shwe Pyi Thar village in Lewe township on June 12. Photo: Pyae Thet Phyo

We wont need to hire teachers with our money ... we can actually save some money instead.
U Sein Win Shwe Pyi Thar resident

K1500 a month for each student, he said. The chairman of the committee that oversees the school said it had requested the school be integrated into the state system in late 2011 during a visit by township education department representatives. Officials submitted a proposal to Mandalay Regions Department of Education on December 30, 2011. Both the head of Lewe townships administrative office and its Pyithu Hluttaw representative, U Htay Win, backed the proposal to turn it into a state-run basic education primary school. The committee chairman said officials had indicated when the application was filed that it would be processed and approved promptly. Nothing has happened so far, he said. U Tin Soe said Shwe Pyi Thar, which has about 560 residents, is the only village in Pauk Myine village-tract that lacks a state school. Five other villages in the area have a basic education primary school, while there is also a middle school in nearby Pauk Myine village. But U Tin Soe said he would prefer to see the existing school upgraded rather than have Shwe Pyi Thar students diverted to one of the other state schools because of the cost and difficulty of arranging transportation. Translated by Thiri Min Htun

www.mmtimes.com

News 17

MPs prepare for crucial session of parliament

WIN KO KO LATT winkolatt2012@gmail.com HLUTTAW representatives say they are preparing for exciting debate on the constitution, media legislation and electoral systems when parliament convenes later this month. The speakers of the Pyithu Hluttaw (lower house), and Amyotha Hluttaw (upper house) announced on June 3 that the session will begin on June 25. The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw the combined upper and lower houses will meet on July 1. In what will be one of the most important political developments of the year, the session will see the formation of a committee to review the constitution. The upcoming hluttaw session will be full of interest and excitement, said U Ye Htun, the Pyithu Hluttaw representative for Hsipaw from the Shan Nationalities Democratic Party (SNDP). Our party representatives will discuss individual constitutional amendments after the committee has been formed, he said. The National League for Democracy will be focusing its attention on the constitutional review, a senior Amyotha Hluttaw representative said. Our partys lawyers are reviewing the constitution to identify potential amendments but they have not sent their findings to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other central executive committee members yet, said U Aung Kyi Nyunt. But the constitution will not be the only contentious issue examined during the session. The Union Election Commission is also expected to submit a proposal to change the voting system from first-past-the-post to a form of proportional representation, while the Interim Press Council will submit its draft of the new publishing law. The councils version is a response to the ministry-drafted bill, which was submitted to parliament earlier this year but has not yet been approved. The media law will be forwarded to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in June. But I do not know whether it would be forwarded through the bill committee or sports, culture and public relations development committee, said U Myint Kyaw from the Interim Press Council. Union Solidarity and Development Party Amyotha Hluttaw representative U Hla Swe said he was not enthusiastic about changing the voting system. The formation of the constitutional review committee is crucial for all citizens so I am excited about it but changing the election system does not make my heart beat any faster, U Hla Swe said. He said the most important thing to consider in relation to the voting system was the desire of the people. Some parties, like the National League for Democracy, ... are in favor of the existing system because they think they will definitely win in 2015, he said. Some small parties, such as the National Democratic Force and the Democratic Party (Myanmar), are in favour of a proportional representation system because they are likely to lose in 2015. Representatives said 13 draft laws, including legislation on intellectual property rights, protection of farmers, protection of small and medium enterprises, communications and special economic zones, would be discussed during the session. But Daw Moe Moe Thwe, a deputy director of the Ministry of Science and Technology, which has overseen the drafting of the intellectual property rights law, said the bill was not yet complete. We plan to submit the intellectual property rights law to parliament this year but I am not sure if it will happen at this session. We need to take some time to complete it, she said. U Aung Kyi Nyunt said the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw would also examine eight approved laws that have been sent back by President U Thein Sein with suggested amendments. These include the anti-corruption law, the Myanmar citizens investment law and the contempt of court law but I cant elaborate further, he said.

Speaker U Khin Aung Myint opens the Amyotha Hluttaw on April 23, 2012. Photo: AFP

Yuzana seeks permission to fire factory workers

SU HLAING TUN hsuhlainghtun.mcm@gmail.com WORKERS at a sugar refinery in Nay Pyi Taw are planning to walk off the job and protest if owner Yuzana presses on with plans to cut 166 staff. Yuzana has submitted an application to the Ministry of Labour for permission to dismiss 166 workers in the latest twist in a dispute that has simmered since March. Employees at the refinery say they are upset about several other issues, particularly wages and job security. this month, it will become clear whether we should protest. The chairman of the company, U Htay Myint, was to arrive in Nay Pyi Taw on June 18 to negotiate with the workers. However, the negotiations were delayed indefinitely because Nay Pyi Taw Council said it did not have enough time to mediate. Factory head U Maung Maung Aye said Nay Pyi Taw Council would set the next date for negotiations. The dispute arose in March after the company fired seven managers at its plantation sites. Nay Pyi Taw Council tried to broker a resolution in mid-May when workers applied for permission to protest on May 13 and 14. The company agreed to four of the six demands made by workers. However, it refused to raise the minimum wage to K85,000, from about K50,000, offering an increase of K5000 instead, said U Kyaw Htay. The situation is getting worse now we heard that the company has applied to [reduce the workforce]. All of the workers are preparing to protest if it happens. The factory was formerly state owned but it and its workforce of about 500 were transferred from the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation to Yuzana in August 2011. Employee Ko Aung said that the company agreed to keep wages at the same level as civil servants. However, the government has raised salaries K50,000 a month since then, while wages at Yuzanas factory have only increased K15,000.

The number of people Yuzana has applied for permission to fire from its sugar factory

166

Workers have asked Nay Pyi Taw Council to help resolve the dispute but said last week that those negotiations are moving too slowly. Unless a resolution is soon reached, they will have little choice but to protest. We dont want to protest because the council and district administration officers have taken responsibility for negotiations, said U Kyaw Htay, a member of the factorys labour organisation. Were still waiting. When we take our salary at the end of

18 News
ANALYSIS

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Crunching the numbers: What can microfinance achieve?

MARIA DANMARK
mariadn@mail.dmjx.dk

MICROFINANCE may not be the magic bullet to fight poverty after all, some experts are saying. The practice of extending small loans to entrepreneurs has been intensively promoted as the solution for poverty since the mid-1990s. In Myanmar the sector was small and operated in a legal grey area until 2011, when a microfinance law was approved by parliament. The government has pledged to reduce poverty to 16 percent by 2015, and its National Comprehensive Plan contains an eight-point ruraldevelopment and poverty-alleviation scheme. One of the points covers microfinance. But after crises in India, where heavily indebted lenders had difficulty repaying their loans, experts are questioning whether microfinance actually has an impact on poverty. The best studies we have arent suggesting a big impact on poverty one way or the other. The impact is approximately zero. What really reduces poverty is industrialisation and emigration. Both have been more important in Bangladesh for reducing poverty than microcredit, says David Roodman, a senior fellow at the Center for Global Development who focuses on microfinance, debt relief and aid effectiveness. However, financial services such as loans and savings accounts are extremely important. We all need ways to set aside money for the things that are important or to obtain funds in emergencies, he said. Pact Global Microfinance Fund has operated in Myanmar since 1997. Its chief operating officer, Fahmid Karim Bhuiya, is convinced that microfinance can improve living conditions. Its very unlikely that half a million people are borrowing from us, repaying their loans regularly and investing in their business, if they are not getting any benefit out of it, Mr Bhuiya said.

A client of a microfinance project works on her pig farm in a village near Pyapon in Ayeyarwady Region. Photo: AFP

We should not only look at the financial gain. It is much more than just reducing poverty, he said. A United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) impact study from 2011 showed that clients of microfinance in Myanmar fared somewhat better in areas such as food security and education compared to non-clients. Sanjay Sinha, director of MicroCredit Ratings International, which undertakes financial and social ratings of microfinance institutions, said microfinance is one of several tools to reduce poverty but does not work in isolation. The availability of small sums of money must be combined with improved market conditions, upgrading of skills and facilitation of other features that affect the lives of poor people, said Mr Sinha. In Bangladesh the microfinance

sector is more mature, after years of experience. One institution is Save Safe, whose ambition is simply to help poor people manage their money. Microfinance is a platform builder, like education. No one claims that having a school in your village will eliminate poverty, but if you dont have a school in the village you have less chance of emerging from poverty, says Stuart Rutherford, the founder of Save Safe. He pointed out that Myanmar was still at the beginning stage but had the late starters advantage of being able to learn from others mistakes. Mr Roodman said he believed the major risk in Myanmar was that lots of outside groups will set up microfinance banks. Currently 142 organisations are licensed to conduct microfinance operations in Myanmar. These will all grow fast at first

because they are starting small. But because there are so many of them, they will start overlapping and lending to the same people without realising it. Then some people will borrow too much and there could be a bubble. But Mr Bhuiya said he disagreed and that people in rural areas should also be able to choose which lender they wanted to use. I dont think overlapping is a problem. I think village residents can be more rational and intelligent than rich people, since they have to manage with a very small amount of resources. He said the cap on interest rates, which is currently set at 2.5pc a month, would slow growth in the sector and could lead to more remote areas missing out completely. The interest rate is too challenging for new organisations so its hard to say when microfinance will reach

more remote areas. If organisations cannot make their full cost recovery, they will not expand. If they dont ... then people will not get loans. We might think a restriction on interest rates would be very helpful, but in reality it wont. Nobody will go to these remote areas with these costs, because they cannot make a profit on it, he said. But not everybody agrees the interest rate is a problem. Mr Sinha said that the cap could be interpreted several ways with vastly different results. Applied as a flat interest rate for a one year loan, 30pc collected with monthly repayments works out to an annual interest rate of over 55pc. In addition, if a lender charges loan processing fees it can increase its revenue on capital to more than 60pc, which is more than adequate to cover the expenses of operating in even the most difficult conditions in Myanmar, said Mr Sinha, who visited Myanmar earlier this year to meet the Myanmar Microfinance Supervisory Enterprise (MMSE) and hold discussions with members of the microfinance community.. If the restriction is interpreted more strictly it could mean 30pc collected on declining loan balances meaning the revenue on the disbursed loan amount could not be increased beyond 30pc a year then it is possible to manage within this revenue in relatively easy-to-operate areas like the delta, but not in the more sparsely populated and hilly regions of the country. While an India-style crisis may be far away, there still is a clear shortage of experience and knowledge of best practices in Myanmar, he said. A better way is for regulatory authorities to monitor expenses and surpluses generated by financial institutions to ensure that borrowers are not being exploited. However, that is a more difficult task, requiring international knowledge and experience that MMSE freely admits it does not have. Mr Bhuiya said he believes Myanmar is already a step ahead. I personally think the situation in Myanmar is more secure. It is under legal control and surveillance. It is very unlikely that anyone can get away with manipulative behaviour.

Bus lines should have third party insurance, warns official

AYE NYEIN WIN ayenyeinwin.mcm@gmail.com THIRD party insurance for highway bus services should be compulsory to ensure adequate compensation after accidents, a spokesperson for the Yangon Region Supervisory Committee for Motor Vehicles said last week. Third party insurance is bought from insurance company as protection against claims made by a third party passengers, motorists or pedestrians and is compulsory in many countries. U Myo Win, the deputy head of the committees transport department, said few bus lines take out third party insurance, although all already charge a K100 travel insurance fee. The compensation in case of a death is K2 million for third party insurance, double the amount for travel insurance. Increasing the insurance coverage would likely cost K100 a ticket. Very few highway bus lines insist that passengers pay third party insurance, U Myo Win said. Bus line owners are not interested in this because they are not required to charge it but it would be beneficial to all parties if they did. Nobody wants to see accidents,but they do happen. And when theres an accident people should be entitled to compensation. He added that third party insurance is common in foreign countries but rarely used in Myanmar. Generally, bus line owners only take out travel insurance, confirmed U Lwin Oo, assistant general manager of state-run Myanma Insurances shipping, flight and travel insurance department. They are not required to get third party insurance. If they did, they would be able to claim more for the cost of damages and for deaths or injuries sustained. He added that the rate charged by insurers would vary for each company depending on the route and the number of vehicles they operate. Ko Win Myo Chit, a spokesperson for JJ Express highway bus line, said his company held third party insurance on all routes. The rate changes from year to year depending on the number of accidents that occur during the year, he said. Id like to see all companies offer third party insurance. Tet Lann highway bus line spokesperson U Win Khaing said his line is working to offer third party insurance on its new buses. We didnt have it on our older vehicles but we will have it for our new buses. In the past we did not know much about third party insurance and were not interested in having it.

Nobody wants to see accidents but they do happen.

U Myo Win Yangon Region Supervisory Committee for Motor Vehicles

A Manshwe Myodaw company bus is pulled from a creek after crashing on the Nay Pyi Taw highway on May 25, killing 11 people and injuring 15. Photo: Supplied

20 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

KNPP , govt agree on IDP pilot project

TIM MCLAUGHLIN timothy.mclaughlin3@gmail.com THE Karenni National Progressive Party will cooperate with the government on a program to resettle IDPs in Kayah States Shadaw township as part of an agreement signed last week. The resettlement pilot project is one of eight points in the agreement signed by the KNPP and the governments Peace-making Committee on June 20. The agreement represents the latest step in the governments efforts toward a nationwide ceasefire. The deal was signed after two days of meetings. The government delegation was led by its chief peace negotiator, Minister for the Presidents Office U Aung Min, while KNPP vice chairman Khu U Yal headed the Karenni side. Other resolutions include the formation of a joint monitoring committee, the staterun New Light of Myanmar said in a report carrying the full text of the agreement on June 21. The monitoring committee will include two KNPP members, two Kayah State government officials and six community leaders. The 10-member group will work together with civil society organisations and NGOs to monitor the conflict in Kayah State. The government and KNPP will also coordinate on demining efforts, the report said. Last weeks agreement and the KNPP decision to back a nationwide ceasefire accord are both important steps for the governments peace process. The meeting came barely a week after U Aung Min received a similar pledge of support from the Shan State Army-South and its political wing, the Restoration Council of Shan State, following a meeting between SSA-South leader Lieutenant General Yawd Serk and President U Thein Sein on June 10.

OPINION

A damaged car sits beside the Nay Pyi Taw Highway in January 2011. Photo: Hein Latt Aung

TRADE MARK CAUTION

BIOCODEX, a Company incorporated in FRANCE, of 7 avenue Gallieni, 94250 GENTILLY, FRANCE, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Reg. No. 5136/2005 in respect of Pharmaceutical, veterinary and sanitary preparations, dietetic substances adapted for medical use, food for babies, plasters, materials for dressings, material for stopping teeth, dental wax, disinfectants. 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 BIOCODEX P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

OTIPAX

Neat chairs, crumbling roads: overcoming the cost-minimisation habit

MASAHIKO TANAKA
newsroom@myanmartimes.com.mm

TRADE MARK CAUTION

Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., (formerly Merck & Co., Inc.), of One Merck Drive, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey 08889-0100, United States of America, is the Owner of the following Trade Marks:Reg. No. 1804/1992 in respect of Chemical products used in agriculture, horticulture and forestry; pharmaceuticals for human and veterinary use; sanitary preparations; disinfectants; fungicides; herbicides; printed matter; books and publications. Reg. No. 1599/1995 in respect of Pharmaceutical preparations for the treatment of respiratory disorders. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

SINGULAIR

SHORTLY after I moved to Yangon as the chief representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), I noticed something in our office. Whenever I walked into our meeting room the table would be clear of all papers from the previous meeting and all the chairs straight. But something seemed amiss. I finally realised it was because after each meeting our secretaries, who are all Myanmar, would not only straighten all the chairs but adjust them to their neutral position not too high, not too low. I was amazed by this. Many people think of Japan as a country that has perfected quality control techniques. We tend to be pretty meticulous, not just in factories but also in offices. Still, I had never seen anything like this in Japan. Then I learned about the Baluchaung 2 Hydropower Project. It was completed in 1960, with Japanese assistance, and is the oldest hydropower plant operated by the Ministry of Electric Power. JICA recently sent an expert team to assess the rehabilitation needs and found its operating rate, or plant factor, was 81 percent, about the highest of all plants in the country. Hydropower plants all operate at well below 100pc of their maximum capacity for hydrological and technical reasons, and Baluchaung 2 had an average running of almost 50pc. The experts came back from the remote site deeply moved by the meticulousness and passion with which the Myanmar engineers and technicians had maintained and operated the project. They were also astonished by the daily operations records, which site engineers had kept impeccably by hand for decades. Not a day had been missed. I believe that a part of this success was due to the excellent work initially done by Japanese engineers and the quality of the equipment, and the care the Japanese experts took to train the Myanmar staff.

Baluchaung 2 has stood the test of time because the high-quality project was combined with the national teams drive for perfection. It has proven to be a highly productive investment and even today it generates 11pc of the countrys hydropower output. These examples quickly convinced me that Myanmar can do well in competitive international markets. People from many international firms not just from Japan but other countries as well have repeatedly told me that attention to quality and a zeal for perfection are the key factors to success in their sector. A country with a culture that encourages such characteristics and yet has relatively low wages is a paradise for many investors.

Times have changed. Myanmar is in a position to choose more expensive but higher-quality projects.
But in time I have also come across some discordant examples. First, I noticed that while the highway from Yangon to Nay Pyi Taw looks like a modern highway this is not the case. The curves are not designed for ease of steering. The waviness of the surface indicates that the foundations were not built properly, which causes uneven subsidence beneath the surface. Some experts suspect that heavy trucks are not allowed on this road because of concerns that heavy loads will damage the poorly constructed road. This restriction alone reduces its economic value hugely. These problems were probably caused by the then-policymakers unwillingness to provide enough funds for the project. No matter how dedicated Myanmars road engineers are, they cannot be expected to get it right without access to modern highway design technologies. They cannot build proper foundations without an ad-

equate budget. Myanmar is now saddled with a road that will be very expensive to maintain or rehabilitate. Second, in discussing the rehabilitation of Baluchaung 2 I noticed a tendency among my government counterparts to focus almost exclusively on minimising the cost. I concede that, in pursuit of perfection, Japanese engineers tend to overdesign things at times. There has to be a balance. But it was as though quality considerations were secondary to the government. What happened to that national passion for quality and perfection? It seems to me that the several decades of isolation from the international community and persistent fiscal pressures have created a different mindset among government officials. Because they have not been properly exposed to cutting-edge technologies and have had to make do with what they can afford, government officials appear to have fallen in the habit of seeking short-term and more affordable solutions to patch up a problem. In the past, the government simply could not afford anything better but through decades of practice it has now become a wellingrained habit. Times have changed. Myanmar enjoys significant revenues from natural gas exports and it has regained access to large sums of foreign aid. It is in a position to choose more expensive but higher-quality projects if they offer a better return in the longer term. I think government officials understand this but the habit of opting for the cheapest choice dies hard. It is important to overcome this mindset as it will give Myanmar more investment options. I believe that restoring the tradition of investing in first-rate projects and maintaining them at high standards will have an important secondary impact: to reinforce the attention to quality and drive for perfection. That heritage has not been lost but if Myanmar keeps building low-quality projects the perfectionist culture will be undermined. That will be a tragedy as I think it should become the foundation of a competitive Myanmar economy.
Masahiko Tanaka is head of the JICA office in Myanmar.

22 News

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

CDMA cards fail to appear on June 20, as prices rise

HTOO AUNG
alexanderhtoo.aung@gmail.com

Mandalay switches to lucky draw for June SIM sale

THAN NAING SOE thennaingsoe@gmail.com AUNG YE THWIN aungyethwin.mmt@gmail.com MANDALAY officials introduced a lucky draw system to sell tens of thousands of K1500 SIM cards to the public on June 20, in a move that avoided the chaos that plagued the distribution in May. A spokesperson for the Mandalay Region government said 72,795 cards were allocated for the June release, an increase on the 65,000 and 69,395 in April and May respectively. In the previous two months we used a queue system but there were some difficulties so now we are using a lucky draw, the spokesperson said. The lucky draws were conducted in front of households eligible to buy one of the CDMA 800MHz cards. We were instructed to announce our allocation of SIM cards to the public, to only sell one card per household and to prioritise households that have not yet got a K1500 SIM card, said the administrator of a ward in Maha Aung Myay township. Ward administrators were told to draw lots to ensure the cards were distributed transparently and systematically. In some wards, residents were required to give the administrator their household list and received a numbered token. If their number was drawn they were then able to buy a SIM card. After the draw we sold the cards to the token holders the following day, said U Win Ko, administrator of Pearl Ngwe Yaung ward in Aung Myay Tharsan township. Translated by Thiri Min Htun

CHEAP mobile phone SIM cards have failed to materialise on the date the government said they would be released through ward offices, as prices hit K90,000 on the news that Yangon would receive a smaller allocations than in April and May. State-run media reported on June 15 that the K1500 CDMA SIM cards would go on sale from June 20, following the sale of about 700,000 cards in April and May. However, by deadline they had still not been released and ward administrators in Yangon said they did not know when sales would begin. However, Yangon Region Minister for Transportation and Communication U Aung Khin said the sale would take place by June 23. On [June 20] we held [a] meeting with township administrative officials about the plan for selling the SIM cards. They are going to be launched within one or two days, he told The Myanmar Times on June 21. U Phay Tike Aung, the administrator of Yedashe ward in Bahan township, said the cards would again be sold through a lucky draw. The Bahan township general administration office is asking us to submit the list of names for the lucky draw, he said. The administrator of Lanmadaws No 1 ward said he was still accepting applications from residents who want to enter the lucky draw. However, residents will be vying for a smaller number of cards than in April and May, U Aung Khin said. The minister said that Myanma

A student helps conduct a lucky draw for K1500 SIM cards at Bahans Yedashe ward on April 24. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing

Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) had distributed the SIMs to regional governments on June 19 and Yangon received a quota of 56,859 for public sales and 28,430 for civil servants, representing a 29 percent decrease on the 120,000 it was allocated in May. In Yangon Region, Taikkyi town-

The price has increased since MPT announced it had reduced Yangon Regions allocation.

ship has got the largest quota and Seikkan township has got the lowest for this month, U Aung Khin said. The lower allocation is because the citys CDMA 800MHz infrastructure is struggling to cope with the influx of the new SIM cards. State media said Ayeyarwady Region, along with Kayin, Mon and northern Shan states, had also received a reduced allocation because of crowding on the network, while Bago, Magwe and Mandalay regions and Rakhine, eastern Shan and southern Shan states had received higher allocations. The report said the number of base transceiver stations was being increased from 282 to 346 to cope with the extra demand in these areas. Ko Yan Naing Soe Myint However, if previous releases are Director of Lu Gyi Min retail chain any guide, many of the SIM cards will be resold to areas of high demand. While they officially sell for K1500,

the CDMA 800Mhz SIM cards are selling for up to K90,000. The price has increased since MPT announced it had reduced Yangon Regions allocation. Also, the internet connection speed is better than other SIM cards, said Ko Yan Naing Soe Myint, a director of the Lu Gyi Min mobile phone chain. He added that relatively few of the people buying the CDMA cards were applying to connect them to mobile internet. At a press conference in May, Deputy Minister for Communications and Information Technology U Thaung Tin said the government planned to sell cheap GSM or WCDMA cards in areas of high CDMA usage to balance the load on the network. However, no announcement has been made as to when GSM cards will be released. They currently sell for K240,000 at mobile phone shops.

Licence hopefuls gear up for final charm offensive ahead of decision

Companies offer everything from football sponsorship to space satellite launches
BILL OTOOLE botoole12@gmail.com THE 11 telecom companies and consortia in the race for two national telecommunications licences may have submitted their bids weeks ago, but that does not mean the work has stopped: Since then, several of the companies have launched high profile public relations campaigns to win over the hearts and minds of local consumers and maybe the committee overseeing the tender. In addition to their ambitious tender proposal, Singapore Telecommunications, or SingTel, has publicly offered to assist Myanmars government in launching a satellite into space. To accelerate Myanmars development of its own international infrastructure, SingTel will invite the government to participate in feasibility studies for future satellite programs and lend its assistance in the launch of a Myanmar national satellite, a SingTel statement said. In a public statement during the first week of June, Sunil Bharti Mittal, chairman of the Bharti Group, which includes Bharti Airtel, pledged to invest an additional US$1 billion in infrastructure should Airtel get the tender. Irish firm Digicel, which has formed a consortium with billionaire George Soros and tycoon Serge Pun, has perhaps been the most assertive in its PR campaign. Digicel sponsors the Myanmar national football side, and even arranged for former coaches from Real Madrid FC to do a football tour of the nation. In addition, Digicel has donated more than $50,000 to the Myanmar Special Olympics team. These initiatives have become something of a common practice for Digicel as it moves into developing markets. The company sponsors sporting teams and competitions in Panama, Haiti, Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Grenada. Though it may seem like a lot of time and money given the fact that these firms might easily miss the tender, Jeremy Rathjen, vice president of consulting firm Thura Swiss, said the building of Myanmars telecom industry was not going to be a winner-takes-all affair. Lets say Digicel doesnt get the tender. I dont think it will be a case of one company handling everything. [Each company] understands that they cant do everything themselves. He said a likely future is several of the companies sharing different parts of the project. Representatives of Digital in Yangon said they are not entertaining the possibility of missing out on the bid, but did say they were fully planning to collaborate with other companies once the process begins, saying its a part of the industry.

Each company understands that they cant do everything themselves.

Jeremy Rathjen Vice president of Thura Swiss

We want to build up Myanmars football, said Jack Bourk, a spokesperson for Digicel in Yangon, adding that more skilled league and national play could be a source of pride for all involved.

www.mmtimes.com

News 23

Experts question telecom predictions

BILL OTOOLE
botoole12@gmail.com

Will savvy marketing pay off for Digicel on June 27? Photo: Boothee

Six things to watch in this weeks licence tender

EDWIN VANDERBRUGGEN
AS June 27 draws near, all 11 remaining bidders in the telecoms tender are preparing for the legal procedures they will need to complete if they are selected for the two national licences. There is a limited and strict timeframe for the successful companies to get all general legal and licensing formalities in order. So, on June 28, when company executives are still celebrating their big win, their lawyers will be on the doorstep of the Myanmar Investment Commission and the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration to lodge the necessary paperwork. Having worked on this fascinating process since the beginning, there are a few things I will watch for when the results are announced. Besides rooting for our clients, the outcome will also say something about the new Myanmars investment and legal climate. How important are the local partners? The committee raised some eyebrows when it made clear in February that bidders are not required to have a local partner. By that time, some firms had already signed up with local partners. MTN, KDDI, SingTel and Digicel all sought strong local partners with considerable influence and know-how in Myanmar. Others, such as Axiata, France Telecom and Telenor did not. In general, I often see foreign investors trying to decide whether having a local partner will deliver a sufficient strategic benefit to the project. There are few business activities where the foreign investment regulations make local participation compulsory but strong local partners can bring in relationships and they know Myanmar. However, attractive partners are few and far between and highly sought after. Do you need strong government-to-government ties for major projects? It is often heard in Yangon that Myanmars historically strong political ties with Singapore will likely benefit SingTel. The Japanese governments recent debt waivers and financial assistance has also not gone unnoticed. Do these things matter? Conventional wisdom suggests it does, but there are no points for strong political relationships in the bid evaluation calculation, a mathematical exercise based on balanced scorecards created by the German consulting firm tasked with managing the tender. My experience is that government support from the home country of an investor always weighs heavily in favour of the client. It will be interesting to see whether the rumour is validated. A leap of faith Despite hopes to the contrary, there is no law on telecommunications yet. What is more, the full regulatory framework has yet to be drafted and we only know a few of the principles that these regulations will, supposedly, be based on. With the market leader Myanma Posts and Telecommunications being the current regulator, this is a not altogether comfortable situation for any newcomer to the market with a heavy load of roll-out and service commitments. Playing devils advocate, think what a market leader can do with interconnection while the newcomer tries to gain market share. The draft licence and what little info we have on forthcoming telecom regulations ticks all the right boxes but one can imagine that a foreign investor with little Myanmar experience might feel a bit uneasy. Still, 11 bids came in and a good number of these bids are very serious commitments to the country. Those bidders took the leap of faith. So here is what we need to watch for: Can the government get this tendering process over the finish line without major hiccups? Will there indeed be a telecom law and matching regulations that meet current expectations? Will there be any major glitches that cast a shadow over the entire process? If this process is completed without any complications, more companies will be willing to take a chance on Myanmar. One Asian, one non-Asian company? For many months, this has been a persistent rumour that has been accepted as gospel in some quarters. When Vodafone dropped out, the rumour mill immediately crowned Telenor as the required Western operator. But would the committee really choose an operator with a weaker bid over another just to maintain a global balance? There are a few strong operators in the running from Europe, so there may not be the need to favour one continent over another. How important is savvy marketing? Nearly all the contenders have spent money on marketing, of course, but Digicels public relations drive has unparalleled. Other bidders have announced development programs, recruitment and various means of supporting the Myanmar people and economy. Does all of this matter? Again, there are no points in the calculation for marketing but its basic human nature to develop a perception based on everything you see and hear, particularly in your immediate surroundings. On that front Digicel has been the winner. Will the committee choose the highest bid? How much has been bid for the spectrum licences is confidential. There was a minimum and we cannot really tell who has gone over the minimum or by how much. But the numbers released by the bidders do give some indication. It seems that Orange and Airtel have not made an effort to outbid everyone else, while others have gone far beyond the minimum requirements. With such a wide range in key numbers, such as the investment cost, which ranges from US$1 billion to a staggering $15 billion (as judged from public statements), and the number of jobs created from 1000 to 7000 how will the scorecard look in the end? Well find out on June 27.
Edwin Vanderbruggen is a partner at law firm VDB Loi.

MYANMARS telecoms industry appears prone to bold claims. When the government launched its telecoms liberalisation process last year, it said the goal was to increase mobile penetration from just 4 percent to 75-80pc by 201516. When foreign companies confirmed they had submitted bids for licences earlier this month, they upped the ante, with several saying they could deliver 95pc penetration within years. The government has since scaled back its growth target to 50pc by 2015 and several industry analysts are also questioning whether the numbers being touted by bidders might be similarly unrealistic. The consortiums that win the two licences are required to have 25pc call and 10pc data coverage within 12 months of launch, and 75pc call and 50pc data coverage within five years. All figures are on a geographic, rather than population, basis. With little accurate population data, it is unclear whether even 95pc coverage on a population basis would meet the 75pc geographic requirement. In a recent report, Myanmar Telecoms Market: overview and emerging opportunities, the telecom consultancy firm Analysys Mason said that it was unlikely any company could achieve greater than 50pc geographic coverage

within three years. The report was based on interviews and surveys carried out by analysts in urban areas over the past year. We believe strongly in the potential of the market and expect it to outperform many of its nearest neighbours over a comparable timeframe, coauthor Tom Mowat said at the CommunicAsia conference in Singapore earlier this month. However, it seems unlikely that 50pc penetration can be achieved as per the governments stated targets due to the lack of infrastructure outside the cities. Mr Mowat said that while the market is being described as frontier, foreign companies may find themselves with unexpected competition. Operators working in areas close to Myanmars borders will need to compete with subscribers currently making use of Thai and Chinese SIM cards and networks that are likely to be superior to their own for the foreseeable future. Jeremy Rathjen, vice president of Yangon consultancy firm Thura Swiss, said setting up a network would be far from straightforward. He questioned how companies would be able to put up towers in such a limited timeframe when even to access some [rural] areas the roads are impassable during rainy season. Its just impractical. But Mr Rathjen said infrastructure was just one of the challenges foreign companies will find in rural Myanmar. Does that 95pc [coverage] include the Wa Autonomous

Region? [These companies] will have to negotiate with local groups which will not be as open or cooperative as the government, he said. There is also the lack of a telecommunications law and concerns over competition from local operators. However, Mr Rathjen said these questions were less interesting to Thura Swiss than what the larger process represents. He said that the manner in which the tender had been handled

It seems unlikely that 50pc penetration can be achieved due to the lack of infrastructure outside the cities.
Tom Mowat Analysys Mason

to date would boost Myanmars chances of attracting foreign investment. The government has so far done a very good job in terms of ensuring transparency and meeting deadlines and this would boost investor confidence in its management skills. The oil and gas tenders are not nearly as transparent, he said. This [tender process] is a good litmus test on where the country is.

24 THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Business
Govt plans legal revamp to grab a share of US market
Laws protecting intellectual property and workers rights will be passed to ensure duty-free access to the worlds largest market, officials say

AYE THIDA KYAW

ayethidarkyaw@gmail.com

THE government will beef up legal protection of labour rights and intellectual property to ensure exports from Myanmar are eligible for duty-free access to the US market by the end of this year, officials at the Ministry of Commerce said. Although they are confident Myanmar will be reinstated in Washingtons generalised system of preferences (GSP) which grants duty-free access to thousands of imported goods from developing countries they said that questions about labour rights and protection of intellectual property had been raised again on June 4 at a public hearing in Washington on Myanmars inclusion in the GSP. The officials stressed, however, that new legislation establishing a minimum wage and standards for occupational

health and safety will be debated at the next session of parliament, as will new copyright legislation. Pyithu Hluttaw representative U Aye Mauk said draft legislation for an intellectual property law will be submitted to the hluttaw when it reconvenes on June 25. U Aye Mauk, who is also secretary of the lower houses planning and financial development committee, said he hopes the legislation will be enacted within two months. The committee has received advice from international bodies, including NGOs, to draft the legislation, he added. The World Intellectual Property Organization has been meeting with officials from the Ministry of Science and Technology to discuss the legislation, a WIPO regional program officer said. U Ye Min Than said five officials drafting the legislation discussed it with WIPO staff at its headquarters in Geneva in early March. WIPO has also sent written comments on the draft legislation and held meetings with

Tens of thousands of US jobs depend on the GSP program.

Stephanie Lester Vice president Retail Leaders Association

officials in the capital, U Ye Min Than said. The government will also receive input from the group that represents copyright-based industries in the US, including the Motion Picture Association of America and the Recording Industry Association of America. The International Intellectual Property Alliance (IIPA) told the June hearing in Washington that it will be weighing into Nay Pyi Taws effort to modernise its copyright law. It said, however, that it supports Myanmars bid for GSP benefits because it is one avenue to protect the interests of US copyright owners around the world. Currently, Myanmar has a 91-year-old, colonial-era copyright law that is largely ignored, it said. Diplomats from Western embassies in Yangon are optimistic that Myanmar will be included in the GSP, with several stating that Washington would not have begun the process if it did not expect to reinstate Myanmar this year. Washington suspended Myanmar from its GSP program in 1989 due to violations of labour rights, but began easing sanctions subsequently imposed on Myanmar following the political and economic reforms introduced by the government of President Thein Sein over the past two years. On May 27 Washington and Nay Pyi Taw announcing a land-

Fish-processing plants that can meet international health and safety standards, like the one above, are expected to benefit from Myanmars inclusion in the USs GSP program. Photo: Staff

mark Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. The largest federation of trade unions in the US is calling, however, for GSP benefits to be contingent on Nay Pyi Taw ensuring that laws protecting freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining are enforced. In a written petition submitted to the June 4 public hearing in Washington, the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations also described Myanmars efforts to improve workers rights as tentative, citing among other factors reports that some employers are refus-

ing to submit to arbitration to settle disputes with workers despite being required to do so by the Settlement of Disputes Law passed in April last year. Some American business associations are also calling for reciprocal market access. The National Pork Producers Council, for example, said Myanmar should not be granted GSP benefits until it fully opens its market to imports of US pork. However, the Retail Leaders Association which says its members have a combined US$1.5 trillion in annual sales said that granting GSP benefits helps make US manufacturers more competitive and allows

retailers to provide a variety of consumer goods at more affordable prices. Tens of thousands of US jobs depend on the GSP program, it added. Commerce ministry deputy director general U Aung Soe, who attended the hearing in Washington, said it left him feeling positive about the bid for GSP benefits. Advocacy groups Earth Rights International, the US Campaign for Burma and the Burma Fund questioned the appropriateness of giving GSP benefits to Myanmar, but business associations were supportive, he said.

BUSINESS EDITOR: Vincent MacIsaac | biz.news.myanmar@gmail.com

25

Rural debt crisis claims another firm

BUSINESS 28

Engineering bill heads to parliament

PROPERTY 30

Exchange Rates (June 21 close)

Currency Euro Malay Ringitt SG Dollar Thai Baht US Dollar Buying K1252 K300 K742 K30 K954 Selling K1270 K305 K754 K31 K961

More imported wrecks seized

AYE NYEIN WIN ayenyeinwin.mcm@gmail.com A SECOND investigation into the import and sale of cosmetically repaired automobile wrecks has failed to put much of a dent in the crime, a car showroom owner said last week. Farmer Auto owner U Soe Htun said the latest crackdown netted 42 suspect vehicles, only seven of which were seized from registered import firms. The rest were taken from private importers. Importers found to be breaking the law were punished, he said. Private importers were found to have the most badly damaged cars, but they are more difficult to punish because they sometimes operate through other peoples import licences, he said. The governments punishments seem to have little effect, he added. Current import regulations allow anyone with a national registration card to import a single vehicle. U Soe Htun said some businesspeople are buying import licences from card holders. I have heard that this costs about K50,000, he said. The government has seized a total of 69 vehicles and is investigating another 60, officials said. A Customs Department official said cars can only exit ports after they have been thoroughly checked. He said the 69 vehicles seized had all been at the port and that thousands more would be examined. I cant even guess how many damaged vehicles we will find, he added. However, spokespersons for several car-import companies urged the government to impose heavy penalties on law breakers rather than imposing regulations that impede trade. We welcome government action against people importing damaged vehicles because we cant compete against people like that, said Ko Ye, a spokesperson for one import agency. They buy badly damaged cars and repair them cheaply at a cost far below the price of an undamaged import. But cars are sometimes damaged in transit so we are asking the government to carefully define what they mean by damaged, he said. I have seen two of our cars damaged in shipping accidents, and it is also hard for us to judge the condition of cars from auction websites. Importer Ko Zaw Zaw said the government had a track record of auctioning illegally imported cars and urged that it an end this practice. Damaged cars should be scrapped, he said.

Border crackdown pays off

SI THU LWIN sithulwin.mmtimes@gmail.com A CRACKDOWN on cross-border smuggling has netted an extra US$386 million in trade revenues so far this financial year, the government announced last week. U Nyunt Aung, an official at the Ministry of Commerces department of consumer protection, said mobile teams deployed to suppress illegal trading have been so effective that legal trade is rising and more revenues are being collected. We seized K5.25 billion of goods, such as hand phones, electrical equipment, playing cards and frozen meat, he said, adding that the goods had been destroyed. During a grace period from November 1 to December 31 last year, the teams seized 22 illegal consignments with an estimated value of more than K150 million on the Muse-Mandalay route and another 49 consignments with an estimated value of more than K300 million on the Myawaddy-Yangon route. Since the beginning of this year, 477 consignments of illegally imported foreign goods worth more than K2.5 billion have been seized on the Muse-Mandalay route. Between Myawaddy and Yangon, 804 consignments worth more than K1 billion have been seized. The raids were led by the Department of Border Trade, along with customs, police, regional administration and Border Trade Association officials. Responsibility for cracking down on smuggling on the Muse-Mandalay route was transferred to the Shan State government on June 14. Through collaboration between many departments, the volume of legal trade is rising, so the crackdown is a success, said Shan State Chief Minister U Sao Aung Myat. Translated by Zar Zar Soe

Fish exporters not ready for EU

MYAT NYEIN AYE myatneyinaye11092@gmail.com CONFUSION about Myanmars readmission into the European Unions generalised scheme of preferences on June 12 is handicapping efforts by exporters to re-enter the market, industry executives said last week. A spokesperson for the Myanmar Fishery Products Processors and Exporters Association told The Myanmar Times that the impact of duty-free access to Europe on domestic exporters remains unclear. When I asked exporters what changes the EUs GSP decision will have on prices none could tell me anything, he said. They believe they need to continue paying tariffs. We still need to find out what impact these EU changes will have here. Fisheries businesses must also improve their quality-control standards because only a few have obtained EU certificates that allow them to export to that market, he added. U Myo Nyunt, managing director of EU-certified General Food Technology and Industry said the fisheries sector will have the most difficult time meeting EU quality and safety requirements. We need to work hard toward this goal and invest in quality controls, he added. Daw Toe Nandar Tin, treasurer of the Myanmar Fishery Products Processors and Exporters Association, said most exporters had yet to upgrade the quality-control and foodsafety standards necessary to export to the EU. EU standards are very high, she said. All aspects of the production line must be monitored from the fishing boats and fish farms to transport and factories. If we want to export to the EU, we must cooperate with farmers, she said, adding that only 14 companies have the necessary certificates to export to the EU. U Tint Swe, a member of the association, said that until June 12, exports from Myanmar accrued a 20 percent tax for value-added products, while raw products were taxed at 13.7pc. The EU standards are so high that exporters face many difficulties in trying to meet them, he added. There are 136 factories producing fisheries products, but only about 10pc of them meet EU requirements.

26 Business The Fine Print

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

SPECIAL SERIES

Legal & tax insight

Strikes, unions and dispute resolution

SEBASTIAN PAWLITA sebastian@pwplegal.com HNIN YU MAI HNIN hnin@pwplegal.com IN last weeks edition of The Myanmar Times there was a report about a strike in a factory in Shwe Pyi Tar. As such, this is not big news: Strikes occur all over the world, after all. In Myanmar, however, strikes had been effectively banned until modern labour legislation was enacted on October 11, 2011, in the shape of the Labour Organisation Law. From a legal perspective, the most interesting aspect of the strike is that, according to the article, it was led by a union and the factory owners put the case to formalised dispute resolution. It shows that the legal framework for solving collective labour disputes has taken root. This is different from, for example, Vietnam, where in spite of the existence of unions discontent erupts in wildcat strikes. According to the Labour Organisation Law, a strike is legal if: it is organised by a union; the majority of the unions members voted in favour of it; the respective labour federation (an umbrella organisation of unions within a specific sector) allows it; and the employer and relevant conciliation body (a body set up at township level to mediate between employers and workers) have been informed three days in advance. A strike must be relevant to the labour affairs. In other words, it must be aimed at forcing an employer or an employers organisation to enter into a collective labour agreement or obtain concessions from the employer in workrelated issues. Strikes held in order to support a general political agenda would be illegal. Internationally, it is a common concept that strikes must be the last resort. This concept does not seem to have taken root in Myanmar yet. At least in the Shwe Pyi Tar case, the report indicates that this strike was not preceded by formal dispute resolution. In theory, however, this is illegal: According to the Settlement of Labour Dispute Law, enacted on March 28, 2012, disagreements between employers and workers are to be settled by an ascending system of dispute resolution bodies (workplace coordinating committee, conciliation body, arbitration body, arbitration council). Only after the dispute has gone through the arbitration body may the union call a strike. Workers in certain essential sectors (water, electricity, firefighting, health, telecommunication) are not allowed to strike. Staff at public utilities must inform the conciliation body at least 14 days in advance and keep a minimum level of service during a strike. An employer must not dismiss a worker who participated in a legal strike (the penalty could be imprisonment for up to one year). In contrast, participating in an illegal strike is a breach of the workers obligations under his contract. The employer is entitled to take disciplinary measures. Furthermore, the worker risks an administrative fine of up to K30,000. The Labour Organisation Law does not say so explicitly, but in line with international practice one must assume that an employer is not obliged to pay wages to workers on strike. An employer may block workers from accessing the workplace (also known as a lock-out) as a countermeasure against a strike. In line with international practice, the employer should not be obliged to pay wage to lockedout workers. The law is silent as to whether non-union members may be locked out. Lock-outs are only legal if they are carried out after dispute resolution failed, the employer informed the township labour organisation and the relevant conciliation body 14 days in advance, and the conciliation body allows the lock-out. The best precaution against strikes is the creation of a friendly work environment. Strikes, so far, seemed to have occurred mostly at enterprises where working conditions were really bad.
Sebastian Pawlita and Hnin Yu Mai are consultants at Polastri Wint & Partners Legal & Tax Advisors in Yangon.

The cornerstone of responsible business

In the second installment of a six-part series, the chairman of CSR Asia discusses how responsible businesses can make a difference in Myanmar
Businesses should avoid environmental degradation by publish -ing clear policies t h a t set out their c o m mitment to environmental protection, by measuring and monitoring their environmental impacts, reducing adverse impacts and setting challenging yet achievable environmental targets. Responsible companies will promote the sustainable use of natural resources and at-risk biodiversity. They will also be part of partnerships promoting environmental awareness and responsible behaviour throughout their value chain. The government is considering how it can encourage inward investments that are linked to socially responsible objectives, but businesses operating in Myanmar still face an uncertain political landscape. Public institutions are weak as the democratisation process is ongoing. Through responsible political involvement, the private sector has a role to play in building stronger institutions and advocating ethical behaviour in all business activities. Industry initiatives support the introduction of social-responsibility requirements in the private sector. Combining forces make efforts more effective and efficient. In particular, the private sector has a role to play in combating corruption. Businesses can work together to promote anticorruption activities. In order to begin tackling bribery and corruption challenges, responsible businesses will establish guidelines to set out their own commitments to ethical behaviour and ensure that their own staff report corrupt activities. There will be a need to establish anti-corruption strategies that are in line with best practices and international l e g a l requirements. Cooperation between businesses, governments and development agencies is vital. Myanmar is undertaking a rapid law reform and there is strong international support for developing regulatory frameworks that help promote responsible business. Businesses are nevertheless facing underdeveloped legislative and judicial systems, and need to be able to manage the weak rule of law with often unclear interpretations of how this relates to their business activities. Responsible businesses ensure that they and their partners comply with existing laws, but go further in respecting international norms and standards relating to social responsibility, the protection of the environment and the protection of human rights. They should not seek to exploit vague laws for their own advantage. Responsible businesses need to start with a due diligence exercise which identifies appropriate laws and international norms of behaviour relevant to their industry and their business operations. Companies need to examine their own risks in connection with rapidly developing legal frameworks. Engaging legal advisors, industry associations and governmental agencies is vital to foster common understanding and interpretations of the law.
Richard Welford is chairman of CSR Asia, which recently released a report on Myanmar. The report is available at www.csr-asia.com.

RICHARD WELFORD
rwelford@csr-asia.com RESPONSIBLE and inclusive businesses will be an essential part of Myanmars road to sustainable development. A practical framework for corporate social responsibility in Myanmar should consist of three elements: responsibility, inclusivity and strategy. Responsibility can be achieved after identifying priority areas for responsible business activities within six capitals: legal, environmental, political, economical, technological and social. Inclusivity can be achieved after identifying inclusive business opportunities within the areas of employment, along value chains, through business linkages and by developing new customer markets. A strategy can also be developed, to focus on responsibility and inclusivity. In this article I will focus on three of the six capitals: environmental, political and legal. Myanmars environmental capital is threatened by businesses that could potentially destroy large forest areas, fragile ecosystems and endangered species. Conflicting priorities and policy fragmentation hinder effective environmental protection and conservation. Responsible businesses will ensure that they make every effort to protect the environment and can be part of innovative projects to conserve nature and restore eco-systems. In rural areas there is a huge opportunity to think about inclusive business opportunities that are profitable but at the same time create much needed jobs and incomes for local people while also encouraging communities to protect and preserve Myanmars rich natural heritage.

www.mmtimes.com

Business 27

New push for coal-fired power plant in Dawei

SOE SANDAR OO
ms.soesandaroo@gmail.com

THAI officials and businesses are making another bid to build a coal-fired power plant in Dawei to serve their countrys rising appetitive for electricity, despite having their plans to build one scuppered by Nay Pyi Taw in January 2012 over environmental concerns. New plans call for the introduction of clean-coal technology, which removes pollutants from the air, Thai officials and executives said. Thai Minister of Energy Pongsak Raktaphongpaisarn was quoted in Thai-language media as saying the country is planning two coal-fired power plants in Myanmar as well as hydroelectric projects that will generate a combined 23,000 megawatts. He said these are necessary because the countrys demand for electricity will rise more than 50 percent by 2030, to 40,000MW. Thailand is banking on receiving the bulk of new energy from Myanmar, he said. Thailands former energy minister, Piyasawat Amma-

If Yangon wants to get enough energy, it needs gas turbine and coal-fired power plants.
Official Ministry of Electric Power

ranan, said mounting opposition to coal-fired power plants in Thailand is encouraging its government to invest in coal-fired plants in Myanmar. Kamjorn Vorawongsakul, a senior executive at Thailands largest builder of industrial estates, Amata Corporation, agreed. He said the company is eager to build a coal-fired power plant in Myanmar because environmentalists and non-governmental organisations blocked companies from building one in Thailand. Mr Kamjorn added, however, that no contract to build a coal-fired power plant in Myanmar had been signed. There is only progress in the recent signing of the agreement of Cooperating in Development of Dawei SEZ and its related project areas, between the Thai and Myan-

mar governments, he said. He was referring to the agreement in early June between Nay Pyi Taw and Bangkok to set up a joint-venture firm to develop the massive special economic zone in southern Tanintharyi Region near the border with Thailand. Mr Kamjorn said Amata was carefully watching the projects development and had not yet made a decision about investing. Mr Piyasawat also played down his countrys reliance on Myanmar for energy. Thailand receives only a fraction of its energy from Myanmar, he told a press conference in Bangkok in early June. The amount is so small that there was no visible impact on Thailands electricity supply when Myanmar stopped exporting gas during the maintenance of the Yadana oil and gas project in April, he said. Mr Piyasawat added, however, that the cuts to exports in April sparked debate about energy security in Thailand. Due to alarm expressed in the media, the government decided to encourage greater investment in coal-fired and nuclear power plants, he said, adding that Thailand consumes about 26,000MW of electricity annually and that it plans to invest in the energy sectors of its neighbours. The Thai government has already signed agreements to buy energy from Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia, Mr Piyasawat said. State-run Thai News Agency reported on June 18 that Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) governor Suthas Patmasiriwat said his agency has studied the feasibility of building a coal-fired power project in Dawei and found that one could generate about 1800MW of electricity. It would be linked to Thailands power grid. A high-ranking official at Myanmars Ministry of Electric Power said the ministry had not received a formal proposal for a coal-fired power plant at Dawei, but added that officials are aware of recent media reports quoting EGAT staff about such a plant. The ministry will check through every step after a memorandum of understanding is signed to ensure an environmental impact assessment is carried out, said the official who requested anonymity. If local communities are dissatisfied the project will not proceed, he added. Clean-coal plants can benefit Myanmar, particularly Yangon, which relies on hydropower, the official said. If Yangon wants to get enough energy for the future, it needs gas turbine and coalfired power plants.

28 Business

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Debt crisis drags down another firm

Last operating specialised rice company says it can no longer provide loans to indebted farmers
MYAT MAY ZIN myatmayzin@gmail.com SU PHYO WIN suphyo1990@gmail.com AS rice farmers fall deeper into debt, a ripple effect is being felt throughout the supply chain, with the Myanmar Rice Federations newly elected president warning that even his company Golden Delta is in financial crisis. Golden Delta began providing loans to more than 3000 farmers in 390 villages in Ayeyarwady Regions Danuphyu township in 2009, at 2 percent interest a month. Now, however, it says it has more than K1 billion in outstanding loans and must curtail new lending as a result. The company is in crisis and the farmers are in arrears, U Chit Khaing said at a press goverance at the end of Mya, after receiving the Presidents Excellence Award for his work supporting the agricultural sector. Golden Delta is the last of 58 specialised rice companies set up in 2008 and 2009 that still lends to farmers. The companies were given approval by the government to provide low-interest loans to farmers. By 2010 only half of them were still operating and as of this year all but Golden Delta had stopped lending, saying it was unprofitable. Business people could not make a profit from specialised rice companies, said U Aung Zaw Oo, chairman of a specialised rice company in Ayeyarwady Regions Thae Gone township. Sean Turnell, an economics professor at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia, said the scale of the problem [is] beyond the abilities of these firms to solve.

A farmer in Ayeyarwady Region pulls shieves of rice from a field. High debt levels are crippling farmers. Photo: Staff

Value-chain financiers can play a role, but the major burden needs to be taken up by the institutions best able to carry it, which are banks with sound rural finance methodologies, he added. Mr Turnell identified rural indebtedness as the single most important economic question currently facing Myanmar, saying that solving it will do more than anything else to immediately alleviate the circumstances of Myanmars rural populace, who comprise about twothirds of the countrys population. The rural debt crisis is also damaging the overall economy. As a result of it, Myanmars economy operates far below potential, Mr Turnell said, adding that this leaves the gov-

ernment with less revenue to spend on health, education and infrastructure. The rural credit crisis must be alleviated. U Chit Khaing said Golden Delta will only lend to farmers who have repaid loans from last year. Indebted farmers in the region say, however, that they cannot repay loans because floods destroyed last years crop. Last year my paddy was destroyed by a natural disaster. How can I repay the loan? said U Nay Htoo. I owe about K200,000 and cannot get another loan. Farmer U Thein Aung, from Danuphyu township, said most farming households are at least K3 million in debt. When farmers cannot repay debts, they have to borrow from

private lenders who charge high interest rates. I have more than K9 million in debts. I pay about K2.5 million in interest every crop, he added. Mr Turnell said the rural indebtedness is so severe that new sources of credit would, for the short to medium term, probably be used just for the purposes of clearing old debt. A circuit breaker may be needed to break the cycle before new lending could be channelled into farms. Agriculture is risky enough anyway, but in Myanmar it has long been made unnecessarily worse, Mr Turnell said, adding that rural Myanmar needs a viable banking sector to provide lending to farmers.

Crop insurance on the agenda Erratic weather

SHWE GU THITSAR khaingsabainyein@gmail.com AYE THIDAR KYAW ayethidarkyaw@gmail.com EXCUTIVES from Myanma Insurance say they are preparing to provide insurance to farmers but have yet to decide what types the state-run firm will provide and when it will start selling them. Myanma Insurance is still researching the market and cannot say when it will begin providing insurance to farmers, they told a June 17 seminar on microfinance. The statements follow calls from the Myanmar Farmers Association for insurance to be provided to farmers to help them cope with unpredictable weather patterns. Myanmar Farmers Association chairman U Soe Htun said famers desperately need support from the government and private sector to exit poverty. Its time to provide insurance. We cant wait, he said. Kit Yamamoto, manager of Japan-based Tokio Marine Nichido, said different types of coverage could be offered to farmers. We have to think about which option is appropriate for Myanmar farmers and conduct research in advance, he said. We need the experts and statisticians to prepare data. Tokio Marine recently opened a representative office in Yangon to prepare for the sectors opening to foreign insurers. Representatives of nine global insurance companies attended the June 17 seminar. Masahiro Fujikawa, an economics counsellor at the Japanese embassy, said Tokio Marine will provide technical advice to Myanma Insurance. It will also advise the government on a policy for farming insurance. Myanma Insurance managing director U Aye Min Thein said a policy should balance the needs of insurers and farmers. We have to be careful to make sure both farmers and businesses do not lose money, he added. U Kyi Aye, chairman of the Dedaye branch of the Myanmar Farmers Association, said access to crop insurance is vital. We faced heavy losses in 2008 from Cyclone Nargis and have had heavy rains and flooding since then. We need to offer insurance to farmers soon. I want to insure my 70 acres, U Kyi Aye added.

driving farmers into the red

MYAT MAY ZIN myatmayzin@gmail.com

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in Myanmar is inviting qualified candidates to apply for the following positions: Sr. Title and level 1. Gender and Health Analyst (LICA 6) 2. Procurement Assistant (LICA 3) 3. Planning and Budgeting Officer (LICA 7) 4. Health Data Quality Assurance (DQA) Specialist (LICA 7) Duty Station Yangon Yangon Yangon Yangon Position National National National National Deadline 24-June-2013 25-June-2013 1-July-2013 2-July-2013

For details please visit UNOPS website https://gprs.unops.org/pages/ viewvacancy/VAListing.aspx and click on the post you are interested in applying for. All applications must be made through UNOPS E-recruitment system.

FARMERS are pointing to Cyclone Nargis, which hit the delta in May 2008, as the point at which their calendars went awry. Since then, they say, erratic weather patterns have made planting and harvesting rice more precarious, especially for farmers who lack access to irrigation and depend entirely on rainfall. Too little rain early in the monsoon season, May to October, or too much at harvest time can destroy a crop. Farmers say they have had to push forward planting from the mid May to mid June because rain has been up to a month late. Once the paddy has been transplanted, however, they cannot prevent heavy rains from ruining it. Farmer U Sein Win, from Ayeyarwady Regions Pantanaw township, identified heavy late-season rains as the main threat, especially for fields lacking drainage systems. Flooding is breaking embankments around fields and destroying crops, he said. U Ye Min Aung, general secretary of Myanmar Rice Federation, said insurance against lost harvests, natural disasters and erratic weather patterns is urgent. We need credit insurance and crop insurance, he said, adding that it will lessen the risk banks face when lending to farmers. A credit-insurance system will also spur the development of financial institutions, local microfinance lenders and other insurance businesses necessary to develop the agricultural sector, U Ye Min said. Rice expert U Tun Win linked flooding to deforestation, saying the land could no longer absorb rainfall. Financial support for farmers is insufficient because more loans will simply drive them deeper into debt unless the underlying causes of the crisis are addressed, he added. Farmers in the delta have yet to recover from Cyclone Nargis, U Tun Win said.

www.mmtimes.com
COMMENT

Business 29

Our citys future is in the hands of residents

Architectural and urban-planning issues are too vital to be confined to professional debate; a more engaged public will help transform Yangon
was told was the size of the land plot. In Myanmar, architecture is often considered a purely technical job. People here have forgotten that architecture is creative, and that buildings and contexts differ immensely depending on their location. If designing a building is a simple activity, a sort of formula, the architecture profession would not have lasted nor would we have astonishing architectural achievements, such as St Peters Basilica in Rome or the CCTV tower in Beijing. Perhaps a lack of public understanding, and a lack of desire for innovation and creativity, has affected architects. A large percentage of the population relies on traditional builders, payan sayar, for constructing smaller homes, while those building taller or bigger buildings are more likely to hire engineers than architects. Only a small percentage of the population is aware of the additional value of using architectural services to create an urban structure with spatial and functional convenience as well as thoughtful aesthetics. People often think it is not worth the money to hire an architect because they can hire an engineer to design and construct a building. However, if you look at other cities around the world if you consider their sophistication of design, material and construction it is clear that builders and engineers are not solely responsible for the results. Instead, these cities are created by collaboration across different professions: from architects, engineers and builders to cultural consultants. As an architecture student, I have become aware of a widening gap between the education I receive abroad and the context at home. For example, in the West there is a race to build the first 3D-printed architecture, which allows the architect to design a building with modelling software. The building can then be constructed by computer-con-

MON THI HAN

monthihan@hotmail.com

AS someone studying architecture overseas, I am struck when I return home by the low profile of the profession here and the lack of public understanding about the role architects play in creating the spaces we live in. When I began studying at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in the United Kingdom, I noticed the literary thickness of architecture: There are more than 40,000 volumes on architecturerelated topics in the schools library, including history, theory and contemporary issues. From many of these books, I learned that architecture not only shapes the individual spaces we live in, but also affects technology and the sociocultural dimensions of the environment. As I gained knowledge, I became more aware of how little understanding there is in Myanmar about architecture. Relatives and friends building new homes often sought tips before contacting an engineer, but their questions were usually vague and lacking context: How deep should a foundation be for a two-storey house built on a mountainside? Once, I was asked to draft a new home without being given any information about its neighbourhood. All I

A view of central Yangon. Greater public participation in urban plannng could help create a more liveable city. Photo: Staff

The real power to change hinges on a switch in attitude among the public.

trolled machinery. In Myanmar, as one architect said, it is difficult to find a payan sayar who excels at tiling. On top of the technical challenges, architects face cultural and societal hurdles created by a public that is uninformed. In the past, it might have been possible for people to ignore regulations for example, building a six-storey building on a plot where only three floors are allowed but now that

Myanmar is moving toward better governance, citizens should really aim for the highest goals to achieve a living environment that is sustainable, clean and beautiful. The government can only do so much. The real power to change hinges on a switch in attitude among the public, one that taps into the ambition to create a beautiful and rich cultural milieu for the nation to enjoy for decades and even centuries. To achieve this, architectural and

urban-planning issues should not be restricted to profesional debates. Public education should also be conducted. An engaged, well-informed public is necessary to drive our goal of creating global cities in Myanmar for the 21st century.
Mon Thi Han is a 4th year student at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, England. She is currently doing practical training in Yangon.

Aftershock of US housing meltdown hitting home

FOR Jose Santos Benavides, the ordeal of losing his home was over. The Salvadorean immigrant had worked for years as a self-employed landscaper to make a US$15,000 down payment on a four-bedroom house in Rockville, Maryland in 2006. Then the economy soured and lean paychecks turned into late mortgage payments. In August 2008, one year after he bought his dream home for $469,000, the banks threat to take his house became real. Just four days before the bank seized the property, he moved out, along with his wife and their two young children. That was not the worst of it. In November, more than three years after the foreclosure, he was stunned to learn he still owed $115,000 with the interest alone growing at a rate high enough to lease a luxury car. Im scared, you know, Mr Benavides said. I cant pay. The 42-year-old is among the many homeowners being taken to court by their lenders long after their houses were taken in foreclosure. Lenders are filing new motions in old foreclosure lawsuits and hiring debt collectors to collect any leftover debt, plus court fees, attorneys fees and tens of thousands in interest that had been accruing for years. It is an aftershock of the foreclosure crisis, and most former homeowners do not know it is coming. When people take out a loan, they generally think the home is the security for the loan, said Alys Cohen, an attorney in the Washington office of the National Consumer Law Center. When they no longer have that home, people dont expect that debt to follow them, she said. It is all part of a legal process known as a deficiency judgment, which is allowed in Washington and 40 of 50 states, including Maryland and Virginia. Since the start of the mortgage meltdown of 2008, at least 400 Maryland homeowners have been pursued in court. In the first four months of this year, 57 new court actions have been filed against homeowners, compared to 120 in total last year. It works like this: A property with a $500,000 mortgage might be worth only $300,000 following the housing crisis. The $200,000 difference, or what is commonly referred to as the underwater amount, is known to lenders as a deficiency balance. It is unclear how many people walk away from homes when they can still afford to pay the mortgage. Likewise, there is little publicly available data on how many people pay off their deficiency judgments. A recent government audit found the recovery rate at onefifth of 1 percent. But for those hit with the judgments, it can seem like double-dipping on their pain. Deficiency judgments are absolutely devastating to the foreclosed home buyer, both as a matter of immediate financial impact and income tax consequence, said John Mixon, a recently retired professor at the University of Houston Law Center. Among the lenders pursuing the judgments are Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the two quasigovernmental lending agencies that have long strived to open up home ownership to a wider segment of the population. Officials at those agencies said the judgments are necessary to recoup money lost in the crisis. Pursuing deficiency judg-

Jose Santos Benavides lost his home to foreclosure in 2008 only to have his lender sue him for the outstanding balance of US$115,000 four years later. Photo: The Washington Post

ments has always been a remedy that we have looked at to mitigate our losses prior to the recent housing crash, said Freddie Mac spokesman Brad German. Mr German said Freddie Mac is targeting strategic defaulters, which it defines as someone who had the means but chose to go into default, that there were no extenuating circumstances that affected their ability to pay. Robert Van Order, who was a chief economist for Freddie

Mac from 1987 to 2002, said he did not believe that targeting deficiencies would produce much revenue. That may be a good business decision, but I dont think thats a huge part of the market, he said. Is it worthwhile to hire some lawyers and some people to try to do it? It might be, but its not going to make or break the companies. Mr Benavides and his family had been living in a cramped, two-bedroom apartment for

four years when the process server handed him a document stating that collectors were coming after him over the debt on his old house. He had 30 days to respond. The notice spelled out that he owed $95,500 from the $375,200 mortgage, plus at least $21,000 in unpaid interest. The letter said the interest on the debt was $19 a day, roughly $577 a month. And the clock had been running for more than three years. The Washington Post

30 Business Property

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

New bill aims to boost engineers

HTAR HTAR KHIN
htar29@gmail.com

AFTER eight drafts over two years, new legislation to establish a council to accredit engineers nationwide is heading to parliament, the president of the Myanmar Engineering Society said. U Win Khaing said the draft engineering council law will be submitted to the lower house in July. The legislation is vital for all engineers in the industry, he told a seminar of government officials and engineers on June 20, urging them to help push it through. Weve been trying for a couple of years to get a law passed but keep meeting delays, he said, adding that the new draft is the most comprehensive so far. It aims to provide an accreditation system that meets global standards to make it easier for the almost 300,000 engineering

graduates in Myanmar to find jobs, speakers told the seminar. Most of the graduates are unemployed because of confusion about qualification requirements, speakers said. The main purposes of the draft engineering council law are to produce internationally accredited engineers and to establish a professional code, standards and practices for them, U Win Khaing said. The draft legislation also provides a template for educating engineers. Myanmar lags other Asean countries in accrediting engineers and as a result engineering graduates will be considered unqualified by the foreign firms expected to enter the domestic market. Their salaries will be low because they do not have internationally recognised certificates, U Win Khaing said. Accredited engineers will also provide a boost to the construction industry, he added. Officials from the Ministry of Construction, Ministry of Science and Technology and Yangon City Development Committee participated in the drafting of the legislation.

IN PICTURES

Motorcyclists ride near residential buildings under construction in a newly developed area of Hanoi on June 21. Rapid urbanisation since the communist nation switched to a market economy in the 1990s has left the Vietnams biggest cities Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City heavily congested due to the lack of adequate infrastructure. AFP

VIENNA

BEIJING

Top Austrian construction company bankrupt

AUSTRIAS second-biggest construction group, Alpine, owned by Spains FCC, filed for insolvency on June 19 as tough business conditions and prestigious but loss-making projects abroad drained it of cash. It was unclear how many of the firms 7,500 employees in Austria and 15,000 worldwide will be affected by what is one of post-war Austrias biggest corporate failures, with the government saying some 2,000 workers risk losing their jobs. The Salzburg-based firm posted a loss of US$605 million in 2012 and had said late on Tuesday that last-ditch talks with creditors on a major restructuring had failed. It has debts of 2.6 billion ($3.42 billion) and needed some 400 million to stay afloat, according to Austrian creditors association KSV, which announced that Alpine had filed for insolvency protection with a Vienna court. Founded in 1965 by two brothers, Alpine expanded rapidly through acquisitions, building airports, hotels, power stations, bridges and office blocks throughout Europe and into Asia, the Middle East and the US. FCC bought a majority stake in 2006 and six years later Alpine became a fully owned subsidiary, but when problems emerged in recent years the Spanish giant, with difficulties of its own not least as its domestic market crashed was reportedly reluctant to keep bailing it out. Despite securing high-profile projects such as stadiums for the 2012 European football championships in Poland and Bayern Munichs multicoloured glowing Allianz Arena, Alpine underestimated the costs, exaggerated the profits and ended up in costly legal disputes. Its large expansion abroad left it with heavy losses, Hans-Georg Kantner from the KSV said. Exacerbating its problems has been a slowdown in construction activity as a result of the global financial crisis of 2008-9 and the subsequent and continuing weakness of the global economy, including in emerging markets, the main source of growth for many Western firms. FCC said that it will book a loss of 289 million related to Alpine but that this would not affect materially its goals of boosting cash flow, enhancing operating efficiency and cutting debt. AFP

Wanda wades into British hotel and yatch markets

CHINESE conglomerate Wanda Group will invest nearly US$1.6 billion build Londons tallest residential towers and acquire British yacht maker Sunseeker, it said on June 19. The plans mark the latest foray by Chinese investors into the Wests luxury market at a time when Europe is grappling with a debt crisis. This is further significant progress in the internationalisation of Wanda Group, said the company, which has interests in a wide range of sectors, from property to tourism and retail. It said it will spend $500 million to buy 91.8 percent of Sunseeker. The remaining shares will be bought by Sunseekers existing management at the same price Wanda offers, the company said, adding it would keep all staff at the British firm after the acquisition concludes. The takeover has won approval from the National Development and Reform Commission, Chinas top economic planning agency, and will be completed soon, it added. It will invest another $1.1 billion to construct a super five star hotel and residential complex in Wandsworth in west London, including two 200-metre towers, which it described as the tallest of their kind in the city. The worlds luxury hotel market has been occupied by foreign brands and there have been no Chinese five-star hotels overseas. Wanda chairman Wang Jianlin said. Wanda has decided to be the pioneer and change this situation, he said, adding the company plans to build hotels of its own brand in eight to 10 major cities throughout the world within the next decade. The announcement came after the firm last year agreed to acquire cinema chain AMC Entertainment for $2.6 billion. Chinese media reported Wanda would pay an additional $500 million after the takeover. Wanda, which has total assets of 300 billion yuan ($49 billion), was founded in 1988. Its net profit topped 10 billion yuan last year, which the company aims to double by 2015, according to its website. China is encouraging its companies to buy up assets around the globe, seeking to diversify the portfolio of its foreign exchange stockpile, acquire resources and expand its share of world markets. The countrys overseas investment in non-financial sectors in the first quarter of this year rose 20pc year on year to $34.3 billion, according to the figures announced on June 18. In one of the most highprofile acquisitions, privately owned Chinese auto maker Geely bought Swedens Volvo Cars from Ford Motor in 2010 for $1.5 billion. AFP

www.mmtimes.com
WASHINGTON CALIFORNIA

Technology 31

Apple releases details on US data requests

AMERICAN tech giant Apple revealed on June 16 it received between 4000 and 5000 data requests in six months from US authorities, days after Facebook and Microsoft released similar information. Apple, Facebook, Microsoft and several other top internet and technology companies have come under heightened scrutiny since word leaked of a vast, covert internet surveillance program US authorities insist targets only foreign terror suspects and has helped thwart attacks. In a statement on its website, Apple said in the period between December 1, 2012, and May 31, 2013, federal, state and local law enforcement had requested customer information up to 5000 times, related to between 9,000 and 10,000 accounts or devices. Most commonly, these requests were related to criminal investigations, searches for missing children or patients with Alzheimers disease, or suicide prevention, Apple said. But the iPhone maker said it works vigorously to protect the privacy of its users and only provides information by court order. Regardless of the circumstances, our legal team conducts an evaluation of each request and, only if appropriate, we retrieve and deliver the narrowest possible set of information to the authorities, the statement said, noting that sometimes the requests were denied altogether. Apple also specified certain types of communications are protected, such as FaceTime and iMessage conversations, which are protected by end-to-end encryption so no one but the sender and receiver can see or read them. Apple cannot decrypt that data, the statement said. Similarly, we do not store data related to customers location, Map searches or Siri requests in any identifiable form. Facebook said June 14 it had received between 9,000 and 10,000 requests for user data affecting 18,000 to 19,000 accounts during the second half of last year, while Microsoft said it had received 6000 to 7000 requests affecting 31,000 to 32,000 accounts during the same period. Both firms said they were prohibited by law from listing a separate tally for security-related requests or secret court orders concerning terror probes. Internet freedom group The Center for Democracy & Technology praised the release as an important step but urged the government to allow the companies to release further details. There has been a public backlash for the tech companies since government contractor Edward Snowden leaked details of PRISM, a vast program that saw nine companies turn over user data to the US National Security Agency. Leaked details of the program first published by Britains Guardian newspaper and The Washington Post have reignited debate over the trade-offs between privacy and security more than a decade after the September 11 attacks. The companies have denied claims the NSA could directly access their servers. US authorities have said the program was legal and limited. FBI Director Robert Mueller told lawmakers the program could have prevented 9/11 and said the leaks had caused significant harm to our nation and to our safety. AFP

Instagrams chief executive officer, Kevin Systrom, announces that Facebooks photo-sharing subsidiary will now allow users to take and share video during a press event at Facebooks headquarters. Photo: AFP

Facebook adds video sharing to Instagram

GLENN CHAPMAN FACEBOOK added smartphone video-sharing to its Instagram photo-based social network on June 20, in a move challenging Twitters popular Vine service. We need to do to video what we did to photos, Instagram cofounder Kevin Systrom said while unveiling Video On Instagram at a press event at Facebooks headquarters in the Silicon Valley city of Menlo Park. Instagram video apps tailored for iPhones and smartphones powered by Google-backed Android software feature 13 filters for special effects and post to peoples Facebook pages the same way pictures do. Video snippets can be 15 seconds or less, since the team saw that length as a Goldilocks moment not too long and not too short, according to the Instagram co-founder. Mr Systrom said that Instagram has topped 130 million users and all of them have access to recording the worlds moments in real time with the launch. Instagram engineers worked with leading video scientists to develop a cinema feature that stabilises shaking that is typical in smartphone video. Within hours of the new feature being added to Instagram, video clips began streaming in from locales around the world including a fish market in Japan, a space memorial in Russia and a surfing haunt on the California coast. Investors, however, seemed put off by the lack of a plan to make money from Instagram and Facebook shares were down slightly to US$23.90 at the end of the official trading day on the NASDAQ. Twitter earlier this year launched Vine, a service that lets people share video snippets up to six seconds long. Given the importance of mobile and video for Facebook, the prospect of video features in Instagram should come as no surprise, said Ovum analyst Eden Zeller. Facebook still needs to figure out ways to make money from Instagram, according to analysts. We didnt design it with any advertising in mind, Mr Systrom said of the video-sharing service. He stressed that Instagram users would own their videos and that Facebook did not intend to use them for marketing or advertising. The overall digital video advertising market in the United States is expected to surge more than 40 percent to $4.1 billion this year, according to industry tracker eMarketer. Video advertising on mobile gadgets is expected to more than double to $518 million this year and account for more than a quarter of all US digital video ad spending by the year 2016, eMarketer said. Forrester analyst Nate Elliott noted that Facebook has done well by borrowing heavily from other internet companies. Examples given by the analyst included Facebook adding Twitterstyle hashtags and news feeds, and the social network letting mobile gadget users check-in at locations after Foursquare found success with the model. This model of borrowed innovation has worked well for Facebook, bringing interesting new features to audiences that the social start-ups can only dream of, Mr Elliott said. He added that the greatest marketing value from social media isnt trying to market to people on social sites. It is learning from social sites how to market to them everywhere else. Google figured it out and I am hoping Facebook figures it out. Google made billions of dollars last year powering advertising at other websites and Facebook could do likewise, using insights gleaned from users to better target ads at other internet venues, the analyst reasoned. The more social behaviours you get people to engage in, the more you learn about them and eventually Facebook will learn how to use this database of affinity to make money on it, Mr Elliott said. AFP

SINGAPORE

Internet balloons to benefit small businesses: Google

GOOGLES plans to beam the internet from giant balloons sent to the stratosphere could boost small businesses in rural parts of Asia by connecting them online, the company said on June 19. Karim Temsamani, Googles head of Asia Pacific, said in a speech at the Communicasia conference in Singapore that the internet balloons might also facilitate communication during disasters. Google revealed top secret plans to launch thousands of balloons to provide internet connections to remote parts of the world, allowing the more than 4 billion people with no access to get online. Its scientists on June 15 released up to 30 helium-filled test balloons flying 20 kilometres above Christchurch in New Zealand, carrying antennae linked to ground base stations. Whats devastating is that only a tiny fraction of SMEs (small-medium enterprises) all across Asia are online right now, Mr Temsamani said. He said India, one of the regions emerging economies, has 47 million small businesses, but only 1 percent are online. Getting more businesses online is crucial to every single country in the region, he said. The experimental balloon project, called Project Loon, is one way to provide affordable internet access to rural, remote and under-served regions, Mr Temsamani said. For farmers in remote rural areas, this would bring market information that allows them to get better prices from merchants, he added. The balloons, which once in the stratosphere will be twice as high as commercial airliners and barely visible to the naked eye, will also help in disasters when communication infrastructure is down, Mr Temsamani said. For places with few doctors, this could help relay drug information. In disasters, this could help coordinate supplies, he said. The balloon network is controlled by ground stations connecting to the local internet infrastructure and beaming signals to the balloons, which are self-powered by solar panels. Users below have an internet antenna they attach the side of their house which can send and receive data signals from the balloons passing overhead. Some 50 people were chosen to take part in the trial in New Zealand and were able to link to the internet. Mr Temsamani cautioned that the project remained in an experimental stage, and would require a lot of work from participating nations. These balloons need networks cooperation to function. Were all going to have to work together on this, he said. He said Google expects half a billion people in emerging markets worldwide, most of them in Asia, to have internet access between now and 2015. AFP

Whats devastating is that only a tiny fraction of SMEs (smallmedium enterprises) all across Asia are online right now.
Karim Temsamani Googles head of Asia Pacific

32 THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

World
WASHINGTON

COMMENT

US leaker Snowden charged with espionage

US authorities have filed espionage charges against rogue intelligence technician Edward Snowden and have asked Hong Kong to detain him, a US official said on June 21. Confirming a report in the Washington Post, the official said a sealed criminal complaint has been lodged with a federal court in the US state of Virginia and a provisional arrest warrant has been issued. Mr Snowden was charged with espionage, theft and conversion of government property. A report on NBC News said he was accused of sharing classified documents with individuals who were not cleared to received them. Mr Snowdens former employer, Booz Allen Hamilton, a private company that seconded him to work as a contractor for the National Security Agency in Hawaii, is based in Virginia and prosecutors there often handle security cases. The 30-year-old technician fled Hawaii on May 20 and flew to Hong Kong, an autonomous Chinese territory, from where he proceeded to leak details of secret US intelligence programs to international media outlets. The leaks embarrassed US President Barack Obamas administration, which was forced to defend US intelligence agencies practice of gathering huge amounts of telephone and internet data from private users around the world. Following reports of the sealed complaint, all eyes will turn to Hong Kong and Beijing to see whether China will agree to help the United States by complying with the provisional warrant and holding Snowden. Hong Kong is a semi-autonomous territory with its own legal system and a provision for granting political asylum, but it is subordinate to China in foreign policy matters and has an extradition treaty with Washington. AFP

Brazils middle-class protest in the streets

IT is tempting to liken the surprising protests in Brazil, which have attracted huge crowds in the countrys biggest cities, to another movement a couple of years ago in the Northern Hemisphere. But there are important differences between Brazils unrest and the Occupy Wall Street movement. Both succeeded in organising the discontent of the middle class. Both started with specific complaints in Brazil, a 20 centavos (US$0.09) rise in bus fares; in the United States, the excesses of Wall Street after the bailouts of the financial crisis - and soon grew to include a long list of amorphous and unrelated grievances. For Occupy Wall Street, it was everything from the cost of health care to Israeli-Palestinian politics; in Brazil, it includes health care as well as schools, crime, official corruption and public spending on the World Cup in 2014 and the Summer Olympics in 2016. Another way of looking at both movements is that they were prompted by particular grievances but soon grew to embrace deeper structural inequities. And that is where the differences between the protests become more apparent. US economic anxiety is less palpable than the Brazilian variety, in part because the US is better able to withstand the upheavals wrought by economic turmoil and protect its middle class. It is probably no coincidence that the Brazilian protests were spurred by a rise in bus fares. (Its worth noting that the spark behind the Arab Spring uprisings was soaring food prices; increases in food costs tend to destabilise democratic governments in developing nations.) Inflation has been picking up, particularly for food and fuel, and was 6.5 percent at the end of last month. Meanwhile, wage increases have barely kept pace with rising prices.

HARARE

Mugabe may yet hold vote without reforms: analyst

ZIMBABWEAN President Robert Mugabe appears to have caved in to regional pressure to delay key elections, but analysts warn the veteran ruler could yet forge ahead with the polls without making key reforms. Earlier this month Mr Mugabe swept aside considerable opposition, mustered all the powers of the presidency and declared Zimbabwes elections will be held July 31. In doing so he plunged the country into a fresh political crisis, with longtime rival Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai vowing to veto any unilaterally declared poll date. But within a week Mr Mugabe was looking less than omnipotent. Southern African leaders fearing Mr Mugabe was hurtling Zimbabwe toward another flawed election, yet more violence and another political and economic meltdown stepped in. In an unusual public rebuke of their old comrade, leaders from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) demanded Mr Mugabe push back the election date. SADC leaders said time must be given to introduce reforms that would make the elections free and fair, or at least allow a vote that would not derail their own plan to stabilise Zimbabwe, which has been half a decade in the making. Dumisani Nkomo, a Bulawayobased independent political analyst said Mr Mugabe got the message loud and clear. Mugabe is under pressure to ensure elections which will be credible and acceptable to SADC, Mr Nkomo said. This means if Mugabe decides to go ahead with the elections on July 31, the results wont be accepted by SADC. But many observers see Mr Mugabes request to the constitutional court for a two-week delay until August 14 as necessary, but not sufficient to ensure a fair vote. There is no guarantee that the two weeks will be granted by the court, said Takavafira Zhou, a political scientist at Masvingo State University. Rights groups and Mr Tsvangirais Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) have already accused the government of lodging an application to the constitutional court that was intended to fail. The application is incompletely done and is shoddy, said Douglas Mwonzora, spokesman for the MDC. Lovemore Madhuku, a constitutional law expert at the University of Zimbabwe, said prospects of the court granting an extension were slim. The elections will still be held on July 31. Its highly unlikely that the

A demonstrator lies in the street wrapped in a Brazilian flag during a rally near Brasilias Estadio Nacional Mane Garrincha on June 15. Photo: AFP

Mugabe is under pressure to ensure elections which will be credible and acceptable to SADC.
Dumisani Nkomo Zimbabwean political analyst

It all comes after a decade of strong growth. The Brazilian economy expanded at an average of more than 3pc a year between 2000 and 2010, almost double the rate of the US. Much of the growth was driven by demand for raw materials, largely from China. The expansion gave millions of poor Brazilians purchase on a middle-class lifestyle. Combined with

the availability of easier credit, Brazilians were able to buy electronics, cars and air conditioners. Never mind that Brazil by many measures remained a country riven by one of the most unequal distributions of wealth and income in the world. The ascent of the middle class, combined with social programs promoted by President Dilma Rousseff and her predecessor, Luiz Inacio

KANDAHAR

Taliban guerrillas welcome Qatar

MAMOON DURRANI TALIBAN fighters on June 21 hailed the rebels new office in Qatar as evidence of their success on the front lines but vowed to battle on until all US forces leave Afghanistan. The opening of the office in Qatar was seen as a first step towards a peace deal as the US-led NATO combat mission ends next year, but a furious Kabul accused the rebels of posing as a government-in-exile. Talk of a meeting between US and Taliban officials has been put on hold, and the US has stressed the office must not be treated as an embassy for the hardliners who were ousted from power in 2001. We welcome the opening of the Taliban office in Qatar, and we are happy about it, said Mullah Ehsanullah, a Taliban fighter in the Zherai district of the southern province Kandahar. With the establishment of this office, we want to hold talks with the international community like an independent and sovereign state, he said. We are reaching our goals in defeating the US. Now we want to free our country from occupation. We want to build our country on our own. When the Qatar office opened on June 18, it used the title of the rebels 1996-2001 government, the Islamic Emirate Of Afghanistan and flew the white Taliban flag - a provocative symbol of oppression to many Afghans. Afghanistans envoy to the United Nations, Zahir Tanin, on June 20 described the opening as theatrical and said it contravened an agreement on how the occasion would be managed. A well-informed member of the Afghan Taliban in Pakistan said peace moves would not impact the fighters guerrilla campaign of roadside bombs, suicide attacks and ambushes. There is not likely to be any immediate change on the ground, with fighting ongoing despite the starting of talks, he said, warning that any Qatar deal would be hard to implement as the insurgents were decentralised. Taliban representatives in Doha are not very powerful and influential within the insurgency, he said, speaking from Pakistan. So they might not be powerful enough to impose the outcome of negotiations on the main [council] which has the power. In Pakistans tribal district of North Waziristan the countrys most notorious bastion of militants a regular visitor said insurgents believe peace

constitutional court will change its position. Even if Mr Mugabes request is approved, it only calls for a two-week delay. Mr Tsvangirais key reforms include difficult tasks like ridding the security services of politicised chiefs aligned to Mr Mugabes ZANU-PF party. He has also called for revamping media laws: to allow independent radio stations to operate, curb the abuse of defamation laws and stop state media from producing anti-opposition propaganda. The reforms would also rid the electoral roll of ghost voters. AFP

33

Tuaregs sign ceasefire with Mali government

WORLD 34

China and Russia downgraded on US human trafficking list

WORLD 37

Air quality tanks in Singapore

ASIA-PACIFIC 41

anxiety and
Peaceful protests are legitimate and a part of democracy.
Dilma Rousseff Brazilian president

WASHINGTON

No agreement in Greek coalition over closure of state broadcaster

GREECES coalition government faced a rift on June 21 after Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and his junior coalition allies failed to agree on the future of state broadcaster ERT, closed by the government earlier this month. No one wants elections right now. Today we have marked one year as government and we will do our full [four-year] term, said the premier after an emergency cabinet meeting that he convened late on June 20, following the inconclusive talks with his allies. Junior partner Fotis Kouvelis, leader of moderate leftists Democratic Left, expressed his objections to Mr Samaras handling of ERT. There was no agreement. For us it is a matter of democratic legality We disagree with actions that offend legality, he said. Leader of socialists Pasok, Evangelos Venizelos, said he continues to support the government. We want the government to continue operating as a three-party coalition, he said and called on Mr Kouvelis to participate in a restructuring of the governments terms of collaboration. However, both of the smaller coalition allies have expressed deep misgivings about the sudden closure of ERT on June 11, a move that caused national and international uproar. The June 20 meeting of the coalition partners was the third effort last week to break the political deadlock over the state broadcaster. According to the prime minister, Mr Kouvelis disagrees on the format that a transitional public TV should have, before a new broadcaster is set up. Yesterday we had an agreement Today Mr Kouvelis chose to distance himself from the solution he accepted yesterday, Mr Samaras said. We are hoping for the support of the Democratic Left, but we will move forward either way. If Democratic Left withdraws its support, the government will be left with a narrow majority of 153 law-

Lula Da Silva, seemed secure. Not so much anymore. Annual growth since Ms Rousseff took office in January 2011 has averaged 2.2pc and was less than 1pc for three quarters last year. It is the fragility of the Brazilian economys gains, so recently won, that undoubtedly fuels the unrest in Brazil. Whatever else might be said about the US economy, it has proved itself over the last

half-decade to be remarkably sturdy. Ms Rousseff doesnt lack for reform plans to Brazils tax code, its pension system, its labour laws, to name a few and they are worth pursuing. Its unlikely, however, that a dry recital of the necessity of economic reform will mean much to the hundreds of thousands of poor and middle-class Brazilians on the streets last week. In that respect, Ms Rousseffs more immediate response to the unrest is encouraging. As a former revolutionary who was tortured during the dictatorship that ruled Brazil from 1964 to 1985, Ms Rousseff knows something about challenging authority. Peaceful protests are legitimate and a part of democracy, she said in a statement posted on the presidential blog, ensuring that many of the young people protesting were likely to see it. Ms Rousseff may want to get some printouts of her statement to hand out to police, who have been firing rubber bullets and tear gas at protesters in Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia. The rallying cry at many of the protests is O gigante acordou, which translates as The giant has awakened (the reference is to a line from Brazils national anthem). Unless Ms Rousseff can restore the growth that salves middle-class anxieties, those words will sound more like a threat than a promise. Bloomberg News

Journalists and staff of state broadcaster ERT sit outside Greeces Council of State in Athens on June 20. Photo: AFP

makers in the 300-seat parliament. Concerned over the latest political developments, the European Union called on the countrys leaders to act responsibly. I appeal to the sense of responsibility of political leaders in Greece for the sake of Greece and of Europe, EU Economic Affairs Commissioner Olli Rehn said on June 20, soon after the statements made by Venizelos and Kouvelis. Meanwhile, the Council of State - Greeces top administrative court repeated its June 17 ruling that ERT SA as an entity has been abolished but that public broadcasts have to be restored soon, local media reported. The shutdown has taken ERTs five TV channels and 24 radio stations off the air and will result in the loss of nearly 2700 jobs. Greece is under pressure by its European Union and International Monetary Fund (IMF) lenders to axe 4000 civil servant posts by the end of the year, as part of its massive 240 billion euro (US$318 billion) bailout. But on June 20, the IMF denied it

had recommended the broadcasters shutdown. The recent decisions regarding the state broadcaster have been the governments, said IMF spokesman Gerry Rice. Mr Samaras has rejected calls to reinstate ERT in its previous form: He says it cost 300 million euro a year for an overall viewer rating of four percent, less than half its private competitors. The black screens will go away, but we will not return to [ERTs] sinful past, the premier said in his June 20 late-night address. The government has offered to compensate ERTs employees and to create a new broadcaster with less than half the workforce. ERT was widely seen in Greece as a government mouthpiece and a haven of chronic mismanagement. But it also offered educational content unavailable on private television, and a link to the homeland for the countrys large diaspora. ERTs closure has also provoked criticism from international media organisations, which have condemned its shutdown as undemocratic. AFP

BRIEFS
Managua Nicaragua air force chiefs killed in helicopter crash
Senior members of Nicaraguas air force were killed on June 20 when a helicopter they were flying in crashed near Lake Managua, officials said. Ten people died in the crash, including Air Force Chief of Staff Colonel Manuel Lopez, the head of Air Force counterintelligence, Colonel Chester Vargas, and air defense chief Lieutenant Colonel Aldo Herrera, the Nicaraguan Army said in a statement. The MI-17 helicopter went down after visiting the El Papalonal firing range in La Paz Centro, 52 kilometres (32 miles) northwest of Managua, the statement said. The senior officers killed were mostly former Sandinista guerrillas who helped found Nicaraguas modern military after the leftist revolutionaries triumphed in 1979 against the dictatorship of Anastasio Somoza. The officers were returning to the capital Managua when, soon after departing, the helicopter pilot made an emergency call to warn of unspecified flight difficulties, said army spokesman, Colonel Orlando Palacios. Napoleon hat is really just a big, fat LIAR, Madarang wrote. Forced to confront the controversy, the US Navy acknowledged Crunch was one stripe short of a captain. We have no record of a CAPN or Captain Crunch serving in the US Navy, said spokesman Lieutenant Commander Chris Servello. But he sought to downplay allegations Crunch was an imposter and said the word captain could be used in a more general sense. We dont take issue with the idea that a Commander (in command) could be called Captain because of his positional rank, ie, Captain of the ship, Servello wrote in an email. The Capn himself launched a defense on his Twitter feed, @ RealCapnCrunch, as his supporters rallied to his flag. Regarding todays rumors of course Im a Capn! Its the Crunch - not the clothes - that make a man, he wrote. AFP

ar office but fight on

With the establishment of this office, we want to hold talks with the international community like an independent and sovereign state.
Mullah Ehsanullah Taliban fighter

Washington US Navys cereal scandal: Capn Crunch not a captain?

A veteran naval officer who has saluted from cereal boxes for 50 years - Capn Crunch - may not be a real captain after all. The US Navy faced a flurry of questions after the culinary website Foodbeast pointed out the cereal seamans blue uniform carried only three stripes - giving him the rank of an American naval commander. The news came as a crushing disappointment to many fans of the avuncular seafarer, including the blogger who uncovered his lower rank, Charisma Madarang of Foodbeast. The cheery Santa Claus in blue

talks are possible only if all US troops leave Afghanistan and all Taliban prisoners are freed. [The peace process] is new but Im not very hopeful, said the visitor to Miranshah, the main town in the district. The Taliban know that the Af-

ghan government may allow the US to keep nine military bases in the future, which means the US will not withdraw, he said. In the mind of many jihadis, as long as the US is in Afghanistan one way or the other, they will fight them. AFP

34 World International
TRADE MARK CAUTION
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THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Reg. No. 5132/2005 in respect of Pharmaceutical, veterinary and sanitary preparations, dietetic substances adapted for medical use, food for babies, plasters, materials for dressings, material for stopping teeth, dental wax, disinfectants. 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 BIOCODEX P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

BIOFLOR

Refugees, displaced at twodecade high, says UN

JONATHAN FOWLER WAR and other crises drove one person from their home every 4.1 seconds in 2012, the United Nations refugee agency said on June 19, pushing the number of people forcibly displaced to a two-decade high of 45.2 million. All told, annual figures from the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) showed 1.1 million people fled across international borders in 2012, while 6.5 million were displaced within their homelands. This means one in each 4.1 seconds. So each time you blink, another person is forced to flee, Antonio Guterres, the UN high commissioner for refugees, told reporters. These truly are alarming numbers, he said. They reflect individual suffering on a huge scale and they reflect the difficulties of the international community in preventing conflicts and promoting timely solutions for them. The total figure of 45.2 million included 28.8 million internally displaced people, 15.4 million border-crossing refugees and 937,000 asylum seekers. War is the main reason for this very high number of refugees and people internally displaced. Fifty-five percent of them correspond to the wellknown situations of Afghanistan, Somalia, Iraq, Sudan and Syria, Mr Guterres said. The largest number of refugees still comes from Afghanistan, a situation unchanged for 32 years. Worldwide, one refugee in four is Afghan. Mr Guterres highlighted the conflicts in Mali, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Central African Republic. Due to the raft of crises, he said, the total number of refugees and internally displaced has risen to a level unseen since 1994, a year marked by the Rwandan genocide and bloodshed in the former Yugoslavia. Last year did see 2.1 million internally displaced people and 526,000 refugees return home, as well as the resettlement of 88,6000 in richer nations. But fresh crises drove the global total higher. New refugees, new internally displaced, unfortunately represent much more than Number of people displaced within their homelands in 2012

WASHINGTON

6.5

MILLION

TRADE MARK CAUTION

BIOCODEX, a Company incorporated in FRANCE, of 7 avenue Gallieni, 94250 GENTILLY, FRANCE, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Reg. No. 5138/2005 in respect of Pharmaceutical, veterinary and sanitary preparations, dietetic substances adapted for medical use, food for babies, plasters, materials for dressings, material for stopping teeth, dental wax, disinfectants. 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 BIOCODEX P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

STIMOL

those able to find an answer to their plight, said Mr Guterres. We witness a multiplication of new conflicts, and it seems that old conflicts never die. Mr Guterres pointed out that the number of people who had fled the spiralling violence in Syria had soared from 650,000 at the end of 2012 to around 1.6 million now, surpassing last years total from all conflicts. The UNHCR has warned that Syrian refugee numbers could hit 3.5 million by the end of this year; and there are also fears that the number currently displaced within the country, 4.25 million, will also climb. Syrian refugees have flooded into neighbouring Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and Iraq,

stretching those nations ability to cope. Mr Guterres urged the international community to help shoulder the load, although he said UNHCR-brokered resettlement programs for Syrians in richer countries were not yet on the cards. With the economic crisis sharpening the asylum debate in developed nations, Mr Guterres said it was important to keep some perspective. Who is supporting refugees in the world? he asked. Essentially, developing countries. He stressed that 87pc of the worlds refugees were protected by developing countries, up from 70pc a decade ago. So when we see discussions sometimes that exist about refugees in many developed countries, I think its good to remind public opinion in those countries that refugees are not people fleeing from poor countries into rich countries in search of a better life, he said. Pakistan remained the worlds top host nation in 2012, with 1.6 million refugees, mostly from Afghanistan. It was followed by Iran with 868,200 and Germany with 589,700. AFP

OUAGADOUGOU

Mali signs ceasefire with Tuaregs

MALIS government signed a ceasefire accord with Tuareg rebels on June 18, paving the way for presidential elections in the troubled west African state next month. The agreement, reached after 10 days of tense negotiations, will enable Malian troops to enter the Tuareg-held city of Kidal in the northeast to secure polls scheduled to take place on July 28. The two sides agreed to halt hostilities and for Tuareg rebels, who took part in an uprising last year that brought the country to its knees, to be restricted to set areas. Long-term peace talks will start after the election. Territorial Administration Minister Moussa Sinko Coulibaly signed the accord with representatives of two Tuareg movements in Ouagadougou, the capital of neighbouring Burkina Faso. Mahamadou Djeri Maiga, vice president of the Tuareg National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), said the accord was a chance to turn the page of hate. There is longstanding distrust between the government and ethnic Tuaregs, who launched an uprising with al-Qaeda-linked militants last year. French forces intervened The Tuareg occupation of Kidal had been a major obstacle to holding the election, seen as crucial to Malis recovery from the conflict of the past 15 months. Malian officers staged a coup in March 2012 in anger at the government response to the Tuareg rebellion. Flush with weapons following the return of Tuareg mercenaries who fought alongside Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi, the MNLA overpowered the weak army. The Tuaregs seized key northern cities before being sidelined by their more powerful al-Qaeda-linked allies, who seized control of the north and imposed a brutal form of Islamic law. French troops and African allies have reclaimed most of the lost territory but the Islamists have launched a guerrilla campaign from desert hideouts. The UN last week warned that the human rights situation in northern Mali remained precarious, with both rebels and Malian troops accused of committing numerous abuses. A UN stabilising force, comprising 12,600 international troops and police, is due to start deploying on July 1. The MNLA sided with France during the worst of the fighting this year but was reluctant to allow government troops into its Kidal bastion for the vote. Arrest warrants issued by Malian authorities against MNLA chiefs were a sticking point in the negotiations, but one source said an agreement was made that the warrants would not be carried out. AFP

TRADE MARK CAUTION

CATERPILLAR INC., a company incorporated in the State of Delaware, United States of America, of 100 N.E. Adams Street, Peoria, Illinois 61629-9620, U.S.A., is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Reg. No. 4705/2001 in respect of Intl Class 37: The rental of construction equipment and mining equipment. Reg. No. 4706/2001 in respect of Intl Class 39: The rental of materials handling equipment. Reg. No. 4707/2001 in respect of Intl Class 40: The rental of electrical generators. Reg. No. 4708/2001 in respect of Intl Class 42: The rental of farming equipment. 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 CATERPILLAR INC. P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

Members of the Tuareg National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA) take part in a meeting on the Malian crisis in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, on June 18. Photo: AFP

in January to halt an Islamist advance on the capital. This agreement represents a major breakthrough in exiting the crisis in Mali, said French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius. I call on the Malian parties, now reunited around a common project, to fully implement this agreement in the best interest of the country. European Union policy chief Catherine Ashton said the agreement had historical significance.

Warning indicators are flashing for the whole country, with people in the north being most vulnerable.
Robert Piper UN humanitarian coordinator for the Sahel region

UN leader Ban Ki-moon also welcomed the accord, urging both sides to begin implementing the agreement at once. But UN envoy to Mali Bert Koenders said the deal was only a first step. Talks over technical details on security and setting up an administration and essential services in Kidal had not started, he said. Robert Piper, the UNs humanitarian coordinator for the Sahel region, said Mali still faced grave problems. Warning indicators are flashing for the whole country, with people in the north being most vulnerable. A donor conference for Mali last month raised US$133 million, barely a third of the $410 million targeted. More money had to be found before the situations deteriorates further still, he warned.

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that AstraZeneca AB a company organized under the laws of Sweden and having its principal office at Vstra Mlarehamnen 9, 151 85 Sdertlje is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

36 World International
WASHINGTON

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

NEXIUM
(Reg: Nos. IV/1248/2001 & IV/4218/2013) in respect of:- Pharmaceutical preparations for the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases 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 AstraZeneca AB P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 26th June, 2013

US seizure of journalist records chilling: AP CEO

THE US governments secret seizure of Associated Press phone records had a chilling effect on newsgathering by the agency and other news organisations, APs top executive said on June 19. Some longtime trusted sources have become nervous and anxious about talking with us, AP president and chief executive Gary Pruitt said in a speech to the National Press Club in Washington DC. In some cases, government employees we once checked in with regularly will no longer speak to us by phone. Others are reluctant to meet in person ... This chilling effect on newsgathering is not just limited to AP, he said. Journalists from other news organisations have personally told me that it has intimidated both official and nonofficial sources from speaking to them as well. Mr Pruitt spoke one month after the US news agency revealed that it had been notified after the fact that the US Justice Department had secret subpoenas of two months of phone records from its news operations. The AP has said US authorities appeared to have sought out the records as part of a criminal investigation into leaked information contained in a May 2012 AP story about a foiled terror plot. Mr Pruitt, who previously called the seizure a massive and unprecedented intrusion cords have been and will continue to be walled off, protected and used for no other purpose other than the leak investigation, Mr Pruitt said. We appreciate these assurances. But that does not excuse what they did. We need to make sure it doesnt happen again. The AP chief said the US administration should reaffirm the right of advance notice to news organisations, and use the courts to adjudicate any disputes on whether certain records are needed. He also called for a federal shield law with teeth to ensure that journalists are not prosecuted for doing their jobs. We do not dispute that the government has the right to pursue those who leak classified information, he said. But he argued that no one in this country should ever be prosecuted for committing journalism. Last month, Attorney General Eric Holder said the leak that prompted the seizure of journalist phone records was a very serious matter that puts the American people at risk. Pruitt said on June 19, however, that the AP waited five days before publishing the article, until after it had been assured by US officials that the national security risk had passed. The US administration under President Barack Obama has been aggressive in pursuing leaks of secret government information. AFP

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that Hotel Lotte Co., Ltd. of 1, Sogong-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademarks:-

LOTTE HOTEL
(Reg: No. IV/12127/2012)

LOTTE CITY HOTEL

(Reg: No. IV/12128/2013) in respect of services in Classes 35, 36, 39, 41, 43, 44 & 45 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark will be dealt with according to law. U THAN WIN, B.Com, B.L. for Hotel Lotte Co., Ltd. By its Attorneys Ageless P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

Associated Press President and CEO Gary Pruitt speaks about press freedom at the National Press Club in Washington DC on June 19. Photo: AFP

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that ELECTROLUX ITALIA S.p.A, a company organized under the laws of ITALY and having its principal office at Corso Lino Zanussi, 30, 1-33080 Porcia (PN), Italy is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark:-

into newsgathering, said the Justice Department violated its own rules on how it handles investigations of leaks to news media. He said the collection of records pertaining to more than 100 journalists was an overbroad and sloppy fishing expedition and failed to follow procedures on notification. Mr Pruitt said that authorities maintained that by notifying the AP ahead of the sweep

it would have tipped off the leaker but argued that kind of reasoning would apply in every single case. This rationale would mean news organisations would never know when its records are being obtained, news sources would become less willing to speak and the public will only know what the government wants them to know. The Justice Department has told the AP that our phone re-

WASHINGTON

Investigators question 1996 TWA crash

SIX former investigators of the 1996 crash of TWA Flight 800 from New York to Paris said on June 19 the aircraft was brought down by an external explosion and called for the probe to be reopened. A documentary set to air next month on the 17th anniversary of the crash that killed 230 people will prove that the officially proposed fuel-air explosion did not cause the crash, the filmmaker said in a statement. The six also provide radar and forensic evidence proving that one or more ordnance explosions outside the aircraft caused the crash. They do not speculate about the source or sources of the ordnance explosions. Numerous witnesses had reported seeing a streak of light and a fireball when the plane exploded, leading some to fear the aircraft had been struck by a rocket or missile before it came down over Long Island shortly after takeoff from John F Kennedy airport. The National Transportation Safety Board ruled out terrorism and said the crash likely resulted from an explosion in the planes centre fuel tank due to an electrical short circuit in a fuel gauge wire aboard the Boeing 747. The former investigators were not allowed to speak to the public or refute any comments made by their superiors and/or NTSB and FBI officials about their work at the time of the official investigation, the filmmaker said. They waited until after retirement to reveal how the official conclusion by the National Traffic Safety Board (NTSB) was falsified and lay out their case in a new original documentary film. The six are also filing a petition with the NTSB to reopen the probe. The NTSB said in a statement it was aware of the documentary and would consider the request. It is our policy to give fair, thorough, and objective consideration to all petitions for reconsideration, it said, noting that a decision could come within 60 days. A petition for reconsideration of Board findings or a probable cause determination must be based on the discovery of new evidence or on a showing that the Boards findings are erroneous. The NTSB described its probe as one of its most detailed investigations, saying it lasted four years. The documentary will air on the US television network EPIX on July 17. AFP

(Reg: Nos. IV/853/1973 & IV/4219/2013) in respect of :- Clothes washers, dish washer, dry-cleaners, pressing and ironing machines, electric motors, electric pumps, electrical equipment for the preparation and treatment of foods and drinks, irons, electrical equipment for cleaning, automatic dispensers, refrigeration equipment and installations, refrigerators, freezers, refrigerant containers, refrigerant counters and show windows, equipment and installations for the preparation, treatment, reconditioning, cooking and distribution of food and victuals, gas/electric cookers, gas/electric cooking ranges, gas and electric ovens, micro-wave ovens, gas/electric rings and cookers, gas/electric hot plates and fuel oil hot plates, gas/electric and stream fryers, grills and brazers, centrifuges, dryers, kerosene/gas/electric/wood coal and fuel oil stoves, radiators, polishers, vacuum cleaners, carpet beaters, refuse dissipators in International Classes 6,7,9,11,14,17,20 and 21. 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 ELECTROLUX ITALIA S.p.A, P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

A National Transportation Safety Board official (left) walks with family members of passengers who died in the crash of TWA Flight 800, as the partially reconstructed fuselage of the plane is moved from one hanger to another in Calverton, New York, on September 14, 1999. Photo: AFP

www.mmtimes.com

International World 37
Human trafficking worldwide
US Department of State releases its annual report
for government action against people trafficking Tier 2 watchlist Governments do not fully comply with minimum protections Number of victims from severe abuse is significant or significantly increasing

US lashes China, Russia for human trafficking

Of the 188 countries examined by the US State Departments annual report on human trafficking, 27 were downgraded while 14 moved up in the rankings
THE United States on June 19 downgraded China, Russia and Uzbekistan to the bottom of a table for failing to make greater efforts to combat human trafficking, a move that may spark sanctions. The sharp blow came in the State Departments annual report on human trafficking after the three nations languished for years on a US watch list, having been granted past waivers amid promises to do better. Three other countries, however Azerbaijan, the Congo and Iraq were elevated off the watch list to Tier 2 status as a reward for what US officials called real movement in the fight against trafficking and slavery. The US estimates that about 27 million remain enslaved around the world. People get so focused on the politics behind this that they forget that every one of these is a person, said Luis CdeBaca, director of the US office to monitor and combat trafficking in persons. Under the terms of a 2008 law, the six countries could no longer stay on the Tier 2 Watch List and either had to move up to Tier 2 or be downgraded to Tier 3 a move that could trigger cuts in non-humanitarian and non-trade US aid. We have a moral obligation to meet this challenge head-on. Human trafficking is an assault on our most dearly held values of freedom and basic human dignity, US Secretary of State John Kerry said in the reports foreword. But he stressed that governments bear primary responsibility for responding to this crime. The 2013 report found that trafficking is pronounced among Chinas internal migrant population and forced labour remains a problem, including in brick kilns, coal mines and factories. The one-child policy has resulted in a skewed sex ratio of 118 boys to 100 girls in China, which served as a key source of demand for the trafficking of foreign women as brides for Chinese men and for forced prostitution.

WASHINGTON

Country assessments
Syria Sudan Libya Algeria Cuba Mauritania Guinea-Bissau

Uzbekistan* Kuwait

Russia*

China* Iran Saudi Arabia Yemen Eritrea

North Korea Papua New Guinea

Tier 3
Governments not complying with minimum protections, and not making significant efforts to do so Countries that remain on the watchlist for two years are automatically downgraded to Tier 3

Equatorial Guinea Central African Rep.

Zimbabwe

Types of abuse

DR Congo
*Downgraded in the new report

Source: US Department of State TIP Report 2013

Sex trafficking Involuntary domestic servitude Forced labor

Bonded, or debt labor Forced child labor Child sex trafficking Child soldiers

People get so focused on the politics behind this that they forget that every one of these is a person.
Luis CdeBaca Director of the US office to monitor and combat trafficking in persons

Beijing had failed to demonstrate significant efforts to comprehensively prohibit and punish all forms of trafficking, the report maintained. Representative Chris Smith, who

has authored key legislation on trafficking, said China has become the sex and labour trafficking capital of the world. Women and young girls have been and are today being reduced to commodities and coerced into prostitution, he added in a statement. Uzbekistan had reduced the number of children under 15 forced to pick the key annual cotton crop, but continued to subject older children and adult labourers to forced labour in that harvest, the report found. In Russia, a million people are exposed to exploitative labour conditions characteristic of trafficking cases, such as withholding of documents, nonpayment for services, physical abuse or extremely poor living conditions. President Barack Obama will determine whether to enact any sanctions against the three nations in September. Such a move would also act as a warning to other nations on the watch list to improve their efforts or face relegation next year. Afghanistan, Barbados, Chad, Malaysia, Maldives and

Thailand will all no longer be eligible for a waiver and face either relegation or promotion. It is also likely to surprise rights organisations who had feared that geopolitical considerations could halt any downgrade of key US allies. It is not grounds for an upgrade that a country is important, or that a country is a close ally. To get an upgrade they have to show results, Mr CdeBaca said. By its very name, Tier 2 Watch List is saying, Watch out, youre about to fall down to Tier 3. Some governments take that to heart and start working on it. Out of the 188 countries in the report, the State Department downgraded 18 others, placing them among a staggering 44 nations on the watch list. And only Madagascar moved up from Tier 3. Its a tough report, but fair, and the conclusions that it draws are on behalf of those millions of voiceless victims who dont know if any of us know about them, Mr CdeBaca said. Even though more nations fell in

the rankings than rose this year, Mr CdeBaca pointed to progress, such as a 20 percent increase in convictions worldwide, while 10pc more trafficking victims were successfully found. In a plus, Armenia moved up to Tier 1 in a move indicating that political will makes a difference, Mr CdeBaca said. But Croatia, Lithuania, Mauritius and Georgia all lost top status to slide down to the second tier, examples of countries who get complacent and just rest on their laurels, he added. AFP

Number of people enslaved around the world

27

MILLION

CAIRO

Egypt tourism minister resigns

EGYPTS minister of tourism has resigned following the appointment of a new governor in the temple city of Luxor who belongs to an Islamist party linked to a deadly attack on tourists, state TV said on June 19. Hesham Zazou said that following the appointment of Adel al-Khayat a member of the political arm of ex-Islamic militant group Gamaa Islamiya he cannot continue in his role as minister of tourism. Mr Khayats nomination sparked fury across the tourism sector, a once-lucrative industry that has been devastated in the aftermath of the 2011 uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak. Prime Minister Hesham Qandil has refused Mr Zazous resignation and asked him to remain in his post until the situation is reviewed, ministry spokeswoman Rasha al-Azaizy told the official MENA news agency. But she said Mr Zazou insisted he would not continue working as long as the new governor remains in his post, greatly harming tourism in Egypt generally and in Luxor specifically. Mr Khayat belongs to the Construction and Development Party, the political arm of Gamaa Islamiya, which was blamed for a spate of attacks in the 1990s before it renounced violence. Gamaa Islamiya claimed responsibility for an attack on a major tourist attraction in Luxor, in southern Egypt, that killed 58 foreign holidaymakers in 1997. Mr Khayats appointment came when President Mohamed Morsi replaced 17 of Egypts governors on June 16. Among the new appointees were members of the Muslim Brotherhood from which Mr Morsi hails, in a move that expands Islamist control of key administrative positions. AFP

TRADE MARK CAUTION

The Cartoon Network, Inc., a company organized under the laws of Delaware, of 1050 Techwood Drive, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30318, United States of America, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Reg. No. 5042/2009 (Intl Class 09) Reg. No. 5043/2009 (Intl Class 41) in respect of Intl Class 9: Series of pre-recorded video cassettes and DVDs featuring cartoons; series of prerecorded audio cassettes and compact discs featuring soundtracks, music of cartoon theme songs and other sound recordings, apparatus for recording, producing and projecting sound and visual images, motion pictures, photographic slides, eyeglasses, sunglasses, anti-glare glasses, frames and cases therefor; downloadable ring tones, graphics and music via a global computer network and wireless devices; cellular telephone accessories, namely, cellular telephone cases and cellular telephone face plates; downloadable television programs provided via video-on- demand; radios, rulers, calculators, computers, computer software and computer peripheral apparatus, computer game joysticks, life jackets, protective helmets and clothing, snorkel tubes, swim masks, swim goggles, cameras, film, batteries, flashlights and magical lanterns, electronic games (computer game cartridges,

GENERATOR REX

computer game cassettes, computer game discs, computer game programs, computer game software, video game cartridges, video game discs, video game joysticks. Intl Class 41: Education; entertainment; sporting and cultural activities; provision of television, broadband, wireless and online entertainment information services; provision of television; broadband, wireless and online computer games; provision of television, broadband, wireless and online entertainment multimedia programs; production, distribution, projecting and rental of television programs, videos, motion picture films, pre-recorded, audio and video tapes, cassettes, discs, records, cds, dvds and all other types of carriers; production and arrangement of radio and television; programs; information relating to entertainment or education provided via television, broadband, wireless and online; providing television, broadband, wireless and online electronic publications (not downloadable); providing an online website of entertainment news and information, products, multimedia programs and reference materials. 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 Cartoon Network, Inc. P.O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that Sandvik Intellectual Property AB a company organized under the laws of Sweden and having its principal office SE-811 81 Sandviken is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark:-

38 World International
HONG KONG

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

DORMER
(Reg: Nos. IV/2335/2003 & IV/4217/2013) In respect of: - Power operated tools for metal cutting, namely taps, dies, drills, reamers, endmills; and parts and attachments therefore, in International -` Class: 7 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 Sandvik Intellectual Property AB P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that EZAKI GLICO KABUSHIKI KAISHA a company organized under the laws of Japan and having its principal office at 6-5, Utajima 4-chome, Nishiyodogawa-ku, Osaka, Japan is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademark: (Reg: No. IV/2170/2013) The above trademark is in respect of:- Confectionery; pastries; cakes; biscuits; cookies; crackers; chocolate; chewing gum; candy; waffles; bread; ice cream; sherbets(ices); frozen yogurt(confectionery ices); coffee-based beverages; cocoabased beverages; chocolate-based beverages; tea-based beverages; curry(spice); cereal-based snack food; rice-based snack food; Chocolate covered biscuits; cream-filled or chocolate -filled pretzels. Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for EZAKI GLICO KABUSHIKI KAISHA P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

A man wears a mask to protect against Beijings pollution in March. Photo: Bloomberg

PEJOY

In China, Danger Maps highlights pollution, abuse and other risks

Activists in China are asking the public to help them create online maps showing the location of pollution sources such as toxic-waste treatment facilities and oil refineries
LULU YILUN CHEN AS pollution concerns rise in China, Liu Chunlei is boosting environmental awareness among the nations 564 million internet users with help from the charitable arm of Alibaba Group Holding. Danger Maps, a website Liu started last year, allows people to look up sites such as toxic-waste treatment facilities, oil refineries and power plants. Liu has plotted about 6000 pollution sources based on government data and user input on Baidu Map, Chinas equivalent of Google Maps. Real-estate agents and websites who want to boost transactions wont tell you this kind of information, said Mr Liu, 35, who created Danger Maps after learning that the Shanghai apartment he bought in 2007 was near a landfill something he wasnt informed of when negotiating the purchase. Inspired by crowd-mapping efforts in Kenya and Japan, the site taps the knowledge of Chinas masses to draw attention to environmental risks in a nation where public information is often scattered and incomplete. Now, Mr Liu is expanding his site by letting users add information to maps with other themes such as missing people and child abuse. More internet users are starting to understand how important information and data can be for sustainable social activism, said Isaac Mao, director of the Social Brain Foundation, a social incubator for Chinese grassroots culture. Visual sites are very helpful for the public to understand the big picture. Pollution has become a particularly delicate subject, displacing land disputes as the main cause of Chinas 30,000 to 50,000 annual incidents of civil unrest, according to Chen Jiping, a member of the top political advisory body to Chinas National Peoples Congress. It would be really interesting to see where incinerators and garbage dumps and such are placed in Chinese cities, and whether that will lead more communities to activism, said Ethan Zuckerman, director of the Center for Civic Media at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. There are likely a lot of issues where there isnt a set of necessary government data. Danger Maps in January received a donation of 50,000 yuan (US$8150) and an offer of technical support from the Alibaba Foundation, which supports groups working to preserve Chinas environment. ing online maps to raise their profile. China Mangrove Conservation Network, a nonprofit in the coastal city of Xiamen, allows people to upload information on damaged mangroves from their phones, and then the group posts them to Baidu maps on its website. When more people see the pollution, public opinion will add pressure to local authorities and prompt them to make changes, said Mao Xiaoli, a coorganiser of the group. Overseas investors will consider environmental issues when deciding where to put their money, said Xiong Weiming, a partner at China Growth Capital, a Beijing-based venYet crowd-sourcing has its shortcomings. In the manhunt that followed the Boston Marathon bombings in April, crowd-sourced photos led to innocent people being misidentified as suspects. Ms Zhang said shes still mulling whether to include crowd contributions to her maps for fear that the data wont be sufficiently accurate to be useful. Mr Liu said he hasnt yet had significant problems with user data, and that Danger Maps hasnt received complaints from government agencies or real estate developers. He said he will only delete information that is false or libelous. The reason we started crowd-sourcing is that if everyone can take action and add data, the level of accuracy may rise, Mr Liu said. Were not defining our image as being in opposition to the government. What we want is to create positive energy. Mr Liu got the idea for Danger Maps from Ushahidi.com, created in 2008 to track postelection violence in Kenya. The site became a prototype for crisis mapping and maptivism, or the use of maps in activism. In 2011, similar sites sprung up in Japan to track radiation after the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Users of Danger Maps can look up potentially hazardous sites within a 10-kilometre (6.2-mile) radius of any address in China. A search around Beijings Forbidden City, for instance, turns up 10 nearby gas stations and two sewage treatment plants. By clicking on a plotted site, users can look up detailed information and send in feedback. Search results can also be shared on Sina Corps Weibo microblogging service. You can have maps on whatever topic you want, Mr Liu said. This is a great way to engage the public. Bloomberg News

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that John Player and Sons Limited a company duly organized under the law of Ireland and having its principal office at 21 Beckett Way, Park West, Nangor Road, Dublin 12 Ireland ( formerly at P.O. Box 286, South Circular Road, Dublin 8, Ireland ) is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

(Reg: No. IV/ 2615/2002) in respect of:- Clothing; footwear and headgear Intl Cl: 25 and; Tobacco whether manufactured or unmanufactured; tobacco products; tobacco substitutes, none being for medicinal or curative purposes; cigarettes; smokers articles and matches- Intl Cl: 34 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 John Player and Sons Limited P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

The reason we started crowdsourcing is that if everyone can take action and add data, the level of accuracy may rise. Were not defining our image as being in opposition to the government. What we want is to create positive energy.
Liu Chunlei Founder of Danger Maps website

You are what you read, demand the best news!

Quality delivered to your doorstop- just email today. subscribe.mt@gmail.com

The foundation was started in 2011 by Alibaba Group, the countrys biggest e-commerce company, with initial funding of 50 million yuan. Jack Ma, Alibabas billionaire founder, said in May he wanted to make Chinas water clearer, skies bluer and food more secure. Lius site has done a good job of engaging the public, said Li Haishi, a fund manager at the Alibaba Foundation in Hangzhou. Its a great way to make people care about environmental protection. More nongovernmental organisations in China are us-

ture capital fund. Companies including Baidu and AutoNavi Holdings may benefit because they provide the infrastructure for mapping sites. Maps showing points of interest are an investment opportunity, Mr Xiong said. People realised this and now are starting to experiment on how to actually do it. Zhang Baoyan, 50, the founder of an organisation that helps reunite parents with missing children, is creating another mapping service, which she says will reveal patterns of how kidnapped children are trafficked.

40 World Asia-Pacific

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

N Korea blasts Hitler report

NORTH Korea has angrily denied a report that its ruler used Adolf Hitlers memoir as a leadership guide, threatening to kill the authors of the report. The article by New Focus International, an online news portal run by North Korean defectors, said Kim Jong-Un had given copies of Mein Kampf to his top officials, urging them to study it as a leadership skills manual. He handed out translations of the German dictators manifesto to select officials at the time of his birthday in January, it said, citing an unnamed North Korean official working in China. Mentioning that Hitler managed to rebuild Germany in a short time following its defeat in World War I, Kim Jong-Un issued an order for the Third Reich to be studied in depth and asked that practical applications be drawn from it, the source was quoted as saying. The story was picked up by all major South Korean newspapers on June 19. But the Norths police agency later on the same day called the report a thrice-cursed crime aimed at belittling its leader and threatened to kill the human scum behind the article. We are determined to take substantial measures to physically remove despicable human scum who are committing treasons, it said in a statement carried by the state-run Korean Central News Agency. Sordid human scum will never be able to look up to the sky nor be able to find an inch of land to be buried after their death. It also vowed to launch merciless punishment of justice against Seoul and Washington, accusing the two nations of encouraging the defectors to defame its ruler. Mein Kampf (My Struggle) was written in 1924 while Hitler was languishing in a Bavarian prison. AFP

SEOUL

DEHRADUN

1000 feared dead in Indian monsoon

MAHESH PANDEY THOUSANDS of Indian soldiers battled last week to reach villages and towns cut off by flash floods and landslides in the countrys north as officials warned at least 1000 people may have been killed. Helicopters and close to 10,000 soldiers were deployed to reach tourists and pilgrims stranded after floods caused by torrential monsoon rains hit the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. The soldiers were mobilising to provide leadership, succour, medical, air and engineer efforts, the army said in a statement. Houses, buildings and vehicles collapsed or were swept away by flooding rivers and landslides, while bridges and narrow roads were also destroyed, leaving some 65,000 people stranded mainly at remote pilgrimage sites, officials said. Torrential rains four and a half times as heavy as usual hit Uttarakhand, known as the Land of the Gods, where Hindu shrines and temples built high in the mountains attract many pilgrims. One of those stranded was Indian cricket star Harbhajan Singh, who was attempting to reach a Sikh pilgrimage site but had to take refuge in a police station. Some people are saying that were stuck but I wouldnt say that were stuck. Id say weve been saved by God, the spin bowler said. With the kind of rainstorm we witnessed, anything could have happened. Many people lost their lives. At least 138 people were killed across Uttarakhand and two neighbouring states also hit by floods and landslides, officials said, but shrine authorities warned the toll was more than 1000. We estimate more than 1000 people have died as unattended bodies are scattered all around, said Ganesh Godiyal, chairman of a trust in charge of several shrines in the pilgrimage towns of Kedarnath and Badrinath. Over the border in Nepal, floods and landslides also triggered by the monsoon left at least 39 people dead, mostly in remote parts of the country, officials said. In India, the military operation was concentrating on reaching the worst-hit Kedarnath temple area, as families of those missing and stranded faced an anxious wait in Uttarakhand capitals Dehradun. Never seen anything like this Entire roads have vanished and villages destroyed ... Theres rubble everywhere, a military officer said, on condition of anonymity as he was not allowed to speak to the media. One state lawmaker put the death toll at 2000, although disaster management officials could not confirm the figure. The entire area is destroyed. Nothing is left, said lawmaker Shaila Rani Rawat from Kedarnath. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on June 19 the priority was rescuing those still stranded and helping the more than 10,000 people already evacuated, describing the floods as most distressing. Nearly 10,000 soldiers along with 13 teams from the National Disaster Response Force were deployed for the rescue and relief effort, a statement from the prime minister said. AFP

We are determined to take substantial measures to physically remove despicable human scum who are committing treasons.
Korean Central News Agency

TRADE MARK CAUTION

NOTICE is hereby given that ASCOTT International Management (2001) Pte Ltd a company organized under the laws of Singapore and having its principal office at 8 Shenton Way, #13-01, Singapore 068811 is the owner and sole proprietor of the following trademarks:-

(Reg: No. IV/1453/1994) The above trademark is in respect of:Services in relation to the management and rental of service apartments (Reg: No. IV/4222/2013) (Reg: No. IV/4223/2013)

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(Reg: No. IV/4224 /2013) The above three trademarks are in respectPaper, cardboard and goods made from these materials, not included in other classes; printed matter; printed publication; periodicals; books; booklets; magazines; newsletters; bulletins, flyers; leaflets; journals; brochures; catalogues; guides; pictures; photographs; instructional and teaching material (except apparatus); posters, advertisements, advertisement boards or placards of paper or cardboard, announcement or display cards; promotional materials; printed advertising materials; pamphlets; stationery; writing instruments and materials; envelopes; letterheads; business cards; files [stationery]; folders [stationery]; calendars; packaging; notepaper; cards; postcards; greeting cards; labels, tags, stickers. - Cl:16 Business management of hotels; business management of residential buildings, hotels and service apartments; information services relating to business management of residential buildings and hotels; advisory and consultancy services relating to business management of residential buildings and hotels; secretarial services provided by hotels; advertising, promotional, publicity and marketing services; dissemination of publicity matter; production, preparation, presentation and distribution of advertising, promotional, publicity and marketing materials; organising promotional campaigns; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to these services; all of the above services also provided on-line from a computer database or the Internet. - Cl:35 Financial services; financial trust management; financial risk management; financial investment fund services;

financial asset management; advisory services relating to investment finance; acquisition for financial investment; management, valuation and project management and co-ordination relating to real estate affairs; investment trust services; investment trust management; real estate brokerage; real estate and land acquisition; real estate agencies relating to the managing and arranging for ownership of real estate, condominiums, apartments; real estate agencies relating to real estate time sharing and leasing of real estate and real estate property, including condominiums and apartments; real estate investment; real estate management; leasing, rental, and management of condominiums, apartments, villas and residential homes; property investment services; financial valuation of property; financing of property development; leasing, letting and rental of property, business and shopping premises; rental of office space; rental of houses; rent collection; management of property; property portfolio management; provision of information relating to property [real estate]; real estate affairs; real estate appraisals [valuations]; advisory, information and consultancy services relating to the aforesaid services; all the above services also provided on-line from a computer database or the Internet. - Cl:36 Cleaning of hotels; cleaning services; provision of laundry facilities and services; dry cleaning; apartment refurbishment services; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to these services; all the foregoing excluding services relating to the replacement of disposable toilet tissue. Cl:37 Accommodation bureaux (hotels, boarding houses); provision of temporary accommodation; rental of temporary accommodation; temporary accommodation reservation services; restaurant, bar and catering services; banqueting services; hotel services; provision of food and drink; information services relating to provision of temporary accommodation; information services relating to hotel services; advisory and consultancy services relating to provision of temporary accommodation; advisory and consultancy services relating to hotel services; arranging, letting and rental of holiday accommodation; holiday and accommodation reservations; room hire; provision of conference facilities; provision of facilities for conventions and exhibitions; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to these services; child-care services; day care services for children; day-care centres (day-nurseries); all of the above services also provided on-line from a computer database or the Internet. Cl:43 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademarks or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates For ASCOTT International Management (2001) Pte Ltd P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 24th June, 2013

BRIEFS
Manila Philippines financial district bans plastic bags
The Philippines financial capital banned disposable plastic shopping bags and Styrofoam food containers on June 20, as part of escalating efforts across the nations capital to curb rubbish that exacerbates deadly flooding. After a widespread publicity campaign leading up to the ban, Makati city environment protection officers began handing out fines of 5000 pesos (US$115) to shops and supermarkets caught distributing the items. While Makati, one of 17 cities or districts that make up Metro Manila, still allows food to be wrapped in plastic, it has banned the bags that shops and restaurants traditionally issue for free. washed ashore on a beach Sunday in the southern Chinese province of Hainan, the staterun Shanghai Daily reported. But Instead of trying to help the distressed animal, a crowd of bathers gathered in the water to pose with it, images posted online showed. Users of Chinas Twitter-like social media service Sina Weibo reacted with outrage at the photographs. When even the basic respect of life is lost, I just want to say, how can I be proud of you, China? one user said in a typical comment.

Wellington NZ burglar turns himself in after finding corpse

A terrified New Zealand burglar handed himself in after breaking into a darkened house and bumping into a hanging corpse, waking neighbours with his blood-curdling screams, police said on June 20. The would-be thief was arrested when he called police in the early hours of June 19 to report his gruesome encounter in the North Island town of Hamilton, the New Zealand Herald reported. Inspector Greg Nicholls said it was the most unusual case he

Beijing Dolphin death provokes outrage in China

A dolphin has died in China after tourists hoisted it out of the water to pose with it for photographs, state media said on June 18, provoking outrage online. Images posted online showed a group of tourists manhandling the grey creature, which

www.mmtimes.com
SINGAPORE

Asia-Pacific World 41

Singaporeans flee smog-choked city

The unprecedented pollution levels are affecting everything from tourism and flight times, to schools and human health
JASMINE NG AND KYUNGHEE PARK RECORD haze levels in Singapore as fires rage on the Indonesian island of Sumatra have prompted some to leave the island-state in search of cleaner air. Singapores Pollutant Standards Index reached a record 401 at noon on June 21, a level deemed hazardous, according to the National Environment Agency (NEA). The haze also affected the Malaysia state of Johor, which borders Singapore. Families sought to escape the haze by booking a short trip away, said Ewan Nicolson, a senior analyst at travel website Skyscanner, which experienced a 22 percent jump in flight searches this week. Short-haul destinations have increased in popularity, with many families looking to depart [over the weekend of June 2223]. Local schools cancelled all activities for the rest of the June school vacation, companies were urged to cut back on outdoor work and stores ran out of protective masks as the smoky haze enshrouded Singapore last week, causing a spat with Indonesia over responsibility. Some airlines are taking the opportunity to woo travelers seeking a brief getaway. Muhammad Faizal, a 24-year-old Singaporean on his way to Phuket for a holiday, said he may consider delaying his return if the haze worsens. I might extend for another day or two, Mr Faizal said as he was waiting for his flight on June 21. Its getting from bad to worse. As long as the haze doesnt delay the flight, its OK. Jetstar Asia, the budget airline unit of Qantas Airways Ltd, offered lower fares on June 21 as part of its Friday Fare Frenzy promotion to people looking for fresher, cleaner air. All four flights to Bangkok from the city-state on June 22 were sold out, according to its website. Scoot, Singapore Airlines longand medium-haul low-fare unit, was also offering tickets to Taipei, Tianjin larly between the two neighbours, as well as Malaysia. The Malay Peninsula has been plagued for decades by forest fires in Sumatra to the west and Kalimantan on Borneo island to the east. Singapore should not be behaving like a child and making all this noise, Agung Laksono, the minister coordinating Indonesias response to the haze, told reporters in Jakarta on June 20, according to the Jakarta Globe. Mr Lee declined to respond to Mr Laksonos comments. We need to work on the problem rather than exchanging harsh words, he said, repeating an offer to help Indonesia. Mr Lee said the fires were caused by errant companies and were not likely to just be smallholders slashing and burning. Singapore has provided satellite data to help identify the companies responsible for the fires. While diplomatic ties wobble at times over haze and other issues, Indonesia and Singapore have strong economic links. Singapores total trade with Indonesia was S$79.4 billion (US$62.4 billion) in 2012, according to government trade promotion agency IE Singapore. Indonesia is Singapores fourth-largest trading partner. The pollution will hit tourismrelated industries in Singapore, which make up about 5-6 percent of the economy, as well as construction, Joey Chew, an economist at Barclays, said in a June 20 note. A disruption for one week could cost the economy about US$1 billion, Barclays economist Wai Ho Leong said in an email on June 19. We are in uncharted territory and the magnitude of the increase in pollution to recent historical norms is stunning, Daniel Wilson, an economist at Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, said in a note on June 21. One thing is certain, however the impact will be negative. Lower visibility from the smog has prompted Singapores Changi Airport to increase the time between aircraft takeoffs and landings, the aviation authority said in an emailed response to Bloomberg. Ships were advised to navigate with caution, the port authority said in an email. Singapore Flyer, which operates the city-states Ferris wheel, suspended operations on June 21. Satellite images on June 20 showed 60 fire hot spots in the Riau region of Sumatra, compared with

We are in uncharted territory and the magnitude of the increase in pollution to recent historical norms is stunning.
Daniel Wilson Australian economist

A combination of pictures shows (top) a view of Singapores skyline shrouded by haze on June 20, and a file picture (bottom) showing the same view on a clear day taken on April 13, 2012. Photo: AFP

and six other destinations as part of its WTF. What the Fog. Get outta here! promotion until June 24. Tiger Airways, the budget carrier partly owned by Singapore Air, is luring customers who are thinking of escaping the haze, according to its Facebook page. All of its flights to Bangkok from Singapore on June 21 were sold out. Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said Singaporeans could expect a higher incidence of respira-

tory diseases, offered medical financial assistance to the young and elderly and urged people to stay indoors where possible. Mr Lee said June 20 he expressed serious concern in a letter to Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and requested evidence that Singaporean or Malaysian companies were responsible for the illegal burning, as suggested by some Indonesian officials. Disputes over haze flare up regu-

148 two days earlier, Sutopo Purwo Nugroho, a spokesman at Indonesias disaster management agency, said in Jakarta. About 80pc are located in plantation and farm areas and 20pc in forests. Major companies with palm oil plantations in Indonesia, such as Singapore-listed Wilmar International Ltd; Malaysias Sime Darby Bhd, the worlds biggest listed palm oil producer; and Cargill Inc, told Bloomberg they had a zero-burning policy. Half of the fires detected between June 11 and June 18 were in areas that should have been protected by an Indonesian moratorium on clearing forest, according to environmental campaign group Greenpeace. Bloomberg News

TRADE MARK CAUTION

had encountered in his 28-year police career, and he believed it would prompt the burglar to mend his ways. Im hopeful that this might be a career-changing moment for that burglar, he told the newspaper. I dare say for the burglar, if we remove the criminality of what he was doing, it would be really shocking. Can you imagine what that would be like in the dark? President Almazbek Atambayev within a month. The air base facility is the number one strategic asset of the resource-poor Central Asian nation and for years has been a cause of tense negotiations with Washington, which paid high rent for the base.

The Cartoon Network, Inc., a company organized under the laws of Delaware, of 1050 Techwood Drive, NW Atlanta, Georgia 30318, United States of America, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

Dhaka Bangladesh sentences militants to death

Bishkek Kyrgyzstan votes to close US base in 2014

Kyrgyzstans parliament voted on June 20 not to renew the lease of its Manas airbase from 2014 to the United States, which uses it to ferry troops and equipment for the coalition military campaign in Afghanistan. The parliament passed a draft law under which the agreement between Kyrgyzstan and the United States signed in 2009 would end in July 2014. US-led troops are set to pull out of Afghanistan by the end of 2014 and hand over to the Afghan forces. The Kyrgyz parliament passed the draft measure in three readings with close to unanimous backing. It now has to be signed into law by

A Bangladeshi court sentenced 10 Islamic militants to death on June 20 after finding them guilty of assisting a deadly suicide bombing on a lawyers office in 2005, a prosecutor said. The militants, from the outlawed Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), showed no remorse after a judge read out the verdict and sentence in a crowded court room in the capital, special public prosecutor Rafiqul Islam said. The attack on an office of a lawyers association in November 2005 killed eight people four lawyers and four litigants plus the bomber, and injured at least 100 others, the prosecutor said. Judge Motaher Hossain ordered the sentence of the 10 militants be carried out by hanging. AFP

Reg. No. 7488/2008 in respect of Intl Class 9: Series of pre-recorded video cassettes featuring cartoons; series of pre-recorded audio cassettes and compact discs featuring soundtracks, music of cartoon theme songs and other sound recordings, apparatus for recording, producing and projecting sound and visual images, motion pictures, photographic slides, eyeglasses, sunglasses, anti-glare glasses, frames and cases therefor; downloadable ring tones, graphics and music via a global computer network and wireless devices; cellular telephone accessories, namely, cellular telephone cases and cellular telephone face plates; downloadable television programs provided via videoon-demand; radios, rulers, calculators, computers, computer software and computer peripheral apparatus, computer game joysticks, life jackets, protective helmets and clothing, snorkel tubes, swim masks, swim goggles, cameras, film, batteries, flashlights and magical lanterns, electronic games (computer game cartridges, computer game cassettes, computer game discs, computer game programs, computer game software, video game cartridges, video game discs, video game

THE POWERPUFF GIRLS

joysticks, video game interactive remote control units, video game interactive hand held remote controls for playing electronic games, video game software, video game tape cassettes), magnets, magnetic boards, mouse pads and decorative refrigerator magnets. Intl Class 41: Education; entertainment; sporting and cultural activities; provision of television, broadband, wireless and online entertainment information services; provision of television; broadband, wireless and online computer games; provision of television, broadband, wireless and online entertainment multimedia programs; production, distribution, projecting and rental of television programs, videos, motion picture films, prerecorded, audio and video tapes, cassettes, discs, records, cds, dvds and all other types of carriers; production and arrangement of radio and television programs; information relating to entertainment or education provided via television, broadband, wireless and online; providing television, broadband, wireless and online electronic publications (not downloadable); providing an online website of entertainment news and information, products, multimedia programs and reference materials. 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 Cartoon Network, Inc. P.O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 24 June 2013

42 the pulse
THE PULSE EDITOR: MANNY MAUNG manny.maung@gmail.com

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

N R FI GERS U O O Y
N

GE

IT
MANNY MAUNG manny.maung@gmail.com

A
Ma Phyu Thazin Soe is helping to pioneer careers for female tattoo artists in Myanmar.

here! Were in the Mandalay Ink tattoo studio in Ahlone township, Yangon. A moment ago, a grown man was lying face-down across a reclining chair, wincing in pain as a tattoo gun buzzed angrily against his skin. But at the ringing he looks up in panic, the buzzing sound changing pitch as work pauses on the intricate design slowly taking shape across his back. Go outside, the man yells to his friend, who has jumped up from a chair to answer the phone on his behalf. Shell hear the tattoo gun!

MOBILE phone rings and theres a shout. Oh no, its my mum! Quick, tell her Im in a meeting! Dont let her know Im

Chan Tha Oo, 31, works in advertising. He says he is crazy about tattooing, to the point where whenever he hears the sound of the tattoo gun buzzing, he feels an irrational need to get another design inked. I get this way even if Im just accompanying my friends to tattoo parlours and watching them getting theirs done, he says. I started with one on my upper right arm, then I got another one on my inner arm. That got extended to my chest and now Im extending another one on my back. Im addicted. But he has his limits. He wont get sleeves tattoos that cover the arms from shoulder to wrist as he says some people react badly to it. In his line of work, he says, bad first impressions can be horrible for sales. While the popularity of tattooing is growing among youth in Myan-

mar, cultural taboos still prevent them from being too public about it, especially in front of their elders. But attitudes are definitely shifting, as the growing number of successful Yangon-area tattoo parlours proves. Chan Tha Oo first met his tattooist, Ko Tut Pe, at an art exhibition about a year ago. Splitting his time between Yangon and Mandalay, Ko Tut Pe is usually booked up three months ahead in both cities. Chan Tha Oo said he was lucky to get a spot in the chair as quickly as he did. I only had to wait a couple of weeks as someone cancelled their appointment. Usually a client would have to wait three months to get an appointment with Ko Tut Pe. In Ko Tut Pes line of work, theres no worry about sleeves his own arms are covered in tattoos though he says he often wears singlets

www.mmtimes.com
Photos: Boothee, Ko Taik, Chan Tha Oo, Manny Maung

the pulse 43

Ko Tut Pe takes a break in between tattooing clients.

I started with one on my upper right arm, then got another one on my inner arm ... I'm addicted.
Chan Tha Oo

outside his home. While the sight of his tattoos might make him look imposing, he is soft-spoken, wearing thick, hipster-style glasses that wouldnt be out of place in New York or Melbourne. I started learning traditional bamboo tattooing when I was 19, Ko Tut Pe said. Eventually, I became interested in using colours which is how I became interested in modern techniques. Ko Tut Pes Western-style techniques are pretty much self-taught, he said. He learned styles and techniques by reading, and even figured out how to build and fix his own tattooing machines. I borrowed a friends machine just to give it a go after practicing with bamboo for many years, he said. I enjoyed the variation in style and the subtlety of what I could

draw. The subtlety comes through in his bio-mechanical tattoos, a free-form style of tattooing where the artist draws a rough outline first and then improvises. Its a style Chan Tha Oo prefers, and one for which Ko Tut Pe is renowned. Its not as common for people to choose a bio, Ko Tut Pe says, but actually, there is a lot less room for error than with freehand. If something slips, I can fix it easily unlike say, a portrait of someones mother. That may or may not be good news for Chan Tha Oos own mother, but she would no doubt be happy to hear about Ko Tut Pes high standards of hygiene, something that helped Chan Tha Oo take the plunge the first time he got a tattoo. Before actually getting a tattoo with Ko Tut Pe, I went to his studio

and watched a friend getting a tattoo, so I felt reassured that ... everything was clean and hygienic, Chan Tha Oo said. Every needle is new and the ink pots are new for every client, so I feel confident that its all above board. And hes also well renowned and trusted, so that means a lot. Indeed, Ko Tut Pes studio is immaculate. There is strictly no smoking in the tattooing area and the floors and walls are free of stains. He orders his ink from the United States and his needles from China, and has a strict one-time-use-only policy. He said clients trust him for his artistic skill but they come back because they know he runs a safe practice, something more studios are watching out for as tattooing grows in popularity. When asked who most of his clients are, Ko Tut Pe is coy about the

celebrities. But he does mention its not just guys lining up for his work. There are lots of girls. One of his sisters-in-tattooedarms, a sought after artist on the other side of town, is proof of this. Most of my customers are girls, says Ma Phyu Thazin Soe, 23. Though sometimes their boyfriends come along with them and also become my customers. I dont have a rule saying my customers must only be girls. Shy and demure-looking, Ma Phyu Thazin Soe said she caught the bug when she accompanied her friends to a studio for their own tattoos. Afterward, she wanted one of her own, and three years ago, after she realised that she also wanted to try things out from the other side of the needle, she started taking lessons from tattooist Yoe Thit New at Myanmar Ink Tattoo

Studio. If not for him, she said, I would not have been able to become a tattooist. Its a difficult subject for a girl to learn in Myanmar. He was so patient. But her family didnt share her teachers approval at least not at first. When they didnt accept me learning tattoo art, I snuck out of the house without telling them and went to my teachers home to learn. Sometimes she skipped regular classes for tattoo classes. But eventually her family came to understand her wishes. Then they supported me as much as they could, she said. Ma Phyu Thazin Soe worked at Myanmar Ink for about a year before stepping out on her own. She now MORE ON PAGE 45

44 the pulse local

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Healing through narrative: Min Min and the Storm

ZON PANN PWINT zonpann08@gmail.com AN English-language version of a Myanmar childrens book is now helping local children to learn English, as well as reminding them of a terrible tragedy that devastated the country. Min Min and the Storm, is an account of the young survivor of Cyclone Nargis which struck Ayeyarwady and Yangon regions in May 2008, first appeared as a Myanmarlanguage picture book for children that same year. It was based on firsthand accounts provided by children who had survived the storm. In the aftermath of Cyclone Nargis, the author, K Seng Raw, went to the Ayeyarwady Delta with the NGO Yinthway Foundation, where they came upon six children among the survivors. The children told K Seng Raw how the disaster had separated their families and taken their loved ones. When I got home, I started to write a complete account of the childrens experiences during and after Cyclone Nargis, K Seng Raw told The Myanmar Times. The book was translated into English by Pat McMramyong and edited by Lolla Stewart. The English version has been selling steadily since its release last February, and is in use in some Yangon international and monastery schools as a teaching tool. Due to its popularity, a 2nd edition was launched on June 18 at Yangons Pomelo Store, a small business oriented around social responsibility. The story is about a young boy called Min Min whose mother and sisters were lost in the disastrous storm that struck southern Myanmar on May 2-3, 2008. In the aftermath of the cyclone, Min Min was rescued from an island where he was stranded. By good fortune, his father was among the rescuers but back at the camp, Min Min found no trace of his mother, sisters or friends. Though people were kind to Min Min, a deep sadness filled his heart. He would speak only to his new friend Hpo Hkaw. The story shows how Min Min

The clock at Bogyoke Aung San Market quietly chimes on the hour. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing

Clock strikes once more

After more than a decade of silence, the clock above Yangons famous Bogyoke Aung San Market is once again telling the right time ZON PANN PWINT
zonpann08@gmail.com

Author K Seng Raw at the launch of Min Min and the Storm, June 18. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing

FOR years, Yangon was a city lost in time with its buildings standing in neglect and disrepair. Inside the citys most famous market, the Bogyoke Aung San Market building, tourists and shopkeepers bustled under its worn tin roof next to mouldy, paint-stripped walls. But now, Yangon is moving racing, actually to reclaim its place in the world. Thats why theres no surprise that along with the new coat of paint on many buildings, the paving of roads and construction trucks that now appear on most city streets, there is a new sound ringing through the citys streets. It is a sound that most had long since forgotten, but which has come to symbolise the rebirth of a nation and people. It is the sound of the Bogyoke Aung San Market clock. No one knows exactly when it

broke, or exactly why it never was repaired, but for more than a decade, the clock that hangs at the top of the market has been silent. It was constructed, along with the market, during British rule in 1926 and the parts needed to properly repair it have long since disappeared, locals say. Rather than wait for the government to fix it, or spend a fortune to import the parts, most just adapted to the sound of another clock, the bell at the Holy Trinity Cathedral, which sits next to the market. The bell at the church would ring twice a day at noon time and at 4 p.m. No one worried about the broken clock at Bogyoke Aung San Market: They just worked under it or drove by knowing that it was not really 6 oclock as the clocks face showed. But at the end of May, when a local journal published a news story about the clock, something started to change. Not long after that, officials from the Yangon City Development Council (YCDC) took steps to repair the clock and it has started to operate well since early June, said a gold shop owner at the market.

But the sound of the clock has changed. The sound from the clock is now inaudible. U Tun Oo, who serves as chairman of the Bogyoke Aung San Market Development Committee, said the clock has broken before, but had never been broken for such a long time. The new clock, although not as loud as the original one, has been designed to produce a chime every hour. It took two weeks to improve accuracy because the repaired clock chimed a few seconds late every hour, but now its precise, he said. U Tin Shwe from the AK art shop said most of the shops in the middle and back of the market dont hear the sound from the new clock. Long ago, shopkeepers at the market would attend to the loud sound of the clock to know the time that the clock chimed every hour, said Ma Tin Moe, who also works at the AK art shop. The sound of the clock was silent for years so that everybody at the market thinks no more of it and they dont even notice now when it chimes, she added.

eventually became more optimistic about his future as his emotional strength gradually returned. Min Min and his friends overcame the worst of the storm to see a brighter future. The book is intended to give strength to children who face problems and try to get back to normal life, said K Seng Raw. She added that the book was also used in workshops on trauma healing. Ms Ulla Kroeber, a volunteer at Pomelo Store who designs teaching tools and toys, said the book was wanted by several psychologists and schools. I saw this book in its original Myanmar version last year and I believe it should be more widely available, she said. Australian childrens author and early childhood teacher Lolla Stewart, who edited the book, said: I focused on Min Min and cut a lot of the extra details from the original book. I made the language simpler and the story shorter and easier to read. Min Min and the Storm is on sale for K3500 at Pomelo Store. Sales will help fund Yinthways distribution of four more Myanmar-language books for young children. Pomelo Store is located on Thein Phyu Road, Botatoung township, Yangon.

Dignity and human rights portrayed in festival

MARIA DANMARK mariadn@mail.dmjx.dk NUAM BAWI hknuambawi@gmail.com A BOY in Myanmar abused by his teacher. A Thai girl who prostitutes herself to feed her family. Moldovan women who work abroad to earn money for their families. These were all stories portrayed at Myanmars first international film festival, Human Rights Human Dignity, from June 16-18. The first time the organiser, Min Htin Ko Ko Gyi, heard about human rights was in 1988, when Daw Aung San Suu Kyi talked about them in one of her speeches. It took a couple of years before he got the idea of holding an international film festival on the subject. It didnt cross my mind, when I attended festivals like in Seoul, because they are economically and technically at a higher level than our country. But when I was in Laos, I was shocked. They were already having their second film festival. I thought if they could do it then so could we, he said. After a year of preparation, the international festival finally opened its doors on June 15 at Yangons Nay Pyi Taw cinema. There are plans to show the festival in different states and regions around the country. The festival opened with the film that eventually won the festivals highest accolade the Aung San Suu Kyi award. Survival in Prison is a featurelength documentary about the political prisoner San Zaw Htway, who spent 12 years behind bars. The director, Yee Nan Theik, first met San Zaw Htway at an art exhibition after his release, and when he heard his story he decided to turn it into a documentary. I wanted to portray how a persons life can be turned upside down when they are engaged in politics. After the transition in our country, we can speak more openly than before, Yee Nan Theik said. I wanted to remind people that we only got these opportunities after people suffered like this. The film was shown along with 25 other national and 26 international films at Junction Square over the course of the festival. Min Htin Ko Ko Gyi said the important thing about the festival was not the screening but the discussion afterward. It gives the audience a chance to raise their voice, he said, adding that the purpose was to get people talking about human rights. If you go out in the street and ask Payback. The director had interviewed many different people - taxi drivers, students, businessmen, doctors and others - about what they thought human rights meant. Many of them admitted in the film that they had heard the term but didnt know what it meant. Festival organiser Min Htin Ko Ko Gyi said: Im hoping that this festival will help improve [the local film industry]. It is hard to say how much they will improve before the human rights festival next year, but Im hoping filmmakers will have drawn some inspiration from the international films. WINNERS NATIONAL COMPETITION

1. Aung San Suu Kyi Award: Survival in Prison 2. Min Ko Naing Award: White & Green 3. March13 Award: The Chess 1. Award from Norway (NBC award): Go Home 2. Award from Czech Republic: Rights 1. Aung San Suu Kyi Award: The Act of Killings

ADDITIONAL AWARDS

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi awards Yee Nan Theik with the Aung Sann Suu Kyi prize at the Human Rights Human Dignity international film festival in Yangon, June 19. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION

people if they know human rights, a lot of them will not know, but at the festival we get them to talk about these things, he said.

Until quite recently, talking about human rights could get people in Myanmar sent to jail, as was illustrated in one of the short documentaries,

1. Special Jury Award: Red Wedding

ADDITIONAL AWARDS

www.mmtimes.com
CONTINUED FROM THE PULSE 43

the pulse local 45

Living well in Myanmar

Educate yourself on dengue and help reduce its spread
CHRISTOPH GELSDORF, MD
livingwellmyanmar@gmail.com

Most of my customers are girls. Though sometimes their boyfriends come along with them.
Ma Phyu Thazin Soe Tattoo artist runs her own studio out of her familys home in Yangons South Okkala township. As you might expect for a tattoo parlour, the room she works in is decorated in black. Its also kept neat and tidy, with equipment and accessories laid out systematically.v Like Ko Tut Pe, Ma Phyu Thazin Soe keeps a strict policy on needle use, using disposable needles once only to prevent any chance of an infection spreading from one customer to another. Earlier on, she says, she felt a lot of stress taking on the responsibility of needling tattoos. It is a touchy job, after all, getting under someones skin this way. But now that shes gained more experience, shes learned to trust herself as a professional. [Early on] I always worried about how I might draw something wrong but Im not afraid anymore. I have more confidence with my art. It doesnt mean she always likes what she draws: Her favourites lean toward traditional, old-school designs, which arent always what the customers want. Even though I like that kind of tattoo, Im not asked to

give those to my customers often. Im drawing what they ask. Still, she says, she tries to give them the best art she can. And that alone makes the job rewarding. Everyone wants to do what they want Im happy with my job because Im working in my ideal profession. I dont care how other people think of me. So whether your mums calling you up unexpectedly at the tattoo parlour, or whether like Ma Phyu Thazin Soes shes living happily upstairs from it, perhaps what this flourishing business is really about is having the confidence to show your true colours, inside and out. Additional reporting by Lwin Mar Htun

LAST week, the Ministry of Health announced that clinics and hospitals in the country have reported more dengue infections this year than all of 2012. This trend, combined with the World Health Organizations estimate that Myanmar has the highest incidence of dengue in Southeast Asia, means families should be watching closely for dengue symptoms and taking steps to prevent its transmission. Dengue disease is a fever caused by a virus th at can either be like the flu or become something much worse. It is spread when a mosquito of the Aedes aegypti species bites an already infected person, then bites someone else. The global spread of dengue has been facilitated by urban environments that give the Aedes mosquito access to many sources of standing water in areas of dense human

population. It breeds in puddles of clear water and prefers to live in cooler, dark places like in a closet or under a bed. Even the trade of used tires may help introduce the disease into new territories. Most who are exposed to dengue by a mosquito bite wont notice, as the immune system will usually fight it off. Unfortunately, in some instances the virus is able to replicate sufficiently to cause symptoms which commonly include a few days of fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle pain, joint pain and perhaps a rash. Most people recover spontaneously and require no further treatment. However, a small proportion of patients go on to leak fluid from their blood vessels. This is called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and it requires hospitalisation. Serious complications occur more commonly in children, young adults and people who are overweight. Blood tests help with diagnosis, but doctors also watch out for increasing abdominal pain; heavy vomiting; bleeding from nose, mouth or gums; swelling; and difficulty breathing, any of which requires an immediate trip

to the hospital. Like the flu, dengue fever is more common during the rainy season. Based on the early symptoms it can be difficult for your doctor to differentiate between the two. Patients, and especially children, should be very closely watched to see which direction an illness with fever is heading. The main thing to remember is that if you have flu-like symptoms for three to four days and then your sickness gets worse, its time to visit the doctor. If your child is the one with flu symptoms, please call the doctor to make a plan to monitor him or her for dengue right away. Most importantly, take steps to reduce your risk of dengue. Eliminate all sources of standing water, including barrels, drums, jars, pots, buckets, flower vases, plant saucers, tanks, discarded bottles, tins, tires, water coolers, refrigerator drip pans and anywhere rainwater collects. If possible, keep screens on your windows, use mosquito repellent or coils if necessary and since the Aedes aegypti bites in the daytime dont forget to protect small children with bednets during daytime naps.

BOOK REVIEW
STUART DEED stuart.deed@gmail.com STRIP away the butchered Burmese and the sometimes shallow lessons learned, and first-time author Jonathan Nichols Puk Time is a funny, well-timed cautionary tale about doing business or trying to in Myanmar. Hitting electronic stands just after the World Economic Forum in early June, with Myanmar riding a wave of international hype, Mr Nichols first literary effort highlights the challenges of actually making a deal in the country. Be it real estate, mining or selling heavy machinery while working with a colourful cast of Myanmar and foreign partners, Mr Nichols studious efforts all fall flat. Along the way were introduced to foreign characters including an Italian lawyer, a colourful Australian businessman and an accountant, as well as a bunch of Myanmar brokers, such as Mr Yeah, Yeah, No as Mr Nichols outlines deals that ultimately end in failure. Each chapter ends in a

The people I met at the Puk

lesson for the reader some are insightful, while others might have been better omitted. The overall narrative is thin the whole book is less than 80 pages but rarely dull - and thats partly the point. The author envisaged the book being read on the plane to Myanmar. Puk Time does get into your head and as a relatively longterm Myanmar resident, there are a lot of characters extremely similar to people I have met here, as well as familiar situations and scenarios. By the end I found the book hard to put down, although I couldnt quite shake the feeling that the author might have written it in part to draw some positives from a negative experience. The lesson I learned as a reader was simple: If you come to Myanmar expecting to find a pot of gold there for the taking, youre going to walk away empty-handed and possibly without your shirt. The selling price of US$4 includes a 10 percent donation to Socio-Lite Foundation, a Myanmar charity dedicated to im-

Puk Time is a series of short stories by Australian entrepreneur, Jonathan Nichols Photo: Supplied

proving childrens education in the country. Puk Time is available

through Asia Business Books online at www.asiabusinessbooks.com

46 the pulse tea break

Universal Crossword
Edited by Timothy E. Parker

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

SUDOKU PACIFIC

NO WAY By Paul D. Vance

ACROSS 1 Patton portrayer 6 Business name abbr. 10 Run-down part of town 14 Muslim deity 15 Use a harvester 16 Gigantic 17 Last name in farm manufacturing 18 Pro foe 19 Seasoned stew 20 Tempting-butdangerous thing 23 Affirmative comment 24 ___ as a pin 25 Super, to a Beatles fan 28 Type of hockey shot 31 Diamond-shaped flatfish 35 Wait just ___! 37 Singing Fitzgerald 39 Your brothers sons sister 40 Costner film 43 King of the arteries 44 Acoustical bounce 45 Jalousie feature 46 Rent collector 48 Confederate topper 50 One taken at random 51 Self-complacent 53 More indicator, briefly 55 Place one should not enter 62 Did I just do that? 63 Now ___ me down to sleep ... 64 Gazpacho grabber 66 One who tells it like it will be? 67 Sharpness of voice 68 Personal, as thoughts 69 Parasites home 70 Back chat 71 Partner of desist DOWN 1 Down at the mouth 2 Treble, for one 3 Substitute spread 4 Be reluctant to go 5 Ancient city on the Nile 6 Hollywoods Pitt 7 Tear to bits 8 Like certain cereals 9 Type of piano 10 Barbecued treats 11 One-name singer of the 1960s 12 Trademarked fruit name 13 Its eschewed by vegans 21 Small bit of land 22 Regional wildlife 25 Like most mamba bites 26 ... old lady who lived in ___ ... 27 Round at the bar 29 Additive in skin lotions 30 Pull strings 32 Edwards love in Twilight 33 Moby Dicks domain 34 Hardly easygoing 36 Abridges 38 Word with head, tooth or heart 41 The elder Judd 42 Had aspirations 47 Red stones 49 Typeface 52 First name among classic SNL regulars 54 Endangered whooper 55 Luxuriously fashionable 56 Prefix with stat 57 Keep ___ head above water 58 Yard sale labels 59 Places for contacts 60 Giant writer Ferber 61 Pub staples 65 Two-way poetic preposition

DILBERT

BY SCOTT ADAMS

PEANUTS

BY CHARLES SCHULZ

CALVIN AND HOBBES

BY BILL WATTERSON

PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

Laugh all the way to the bank when you rent this space.
The tea break page is being re-formatted in readiness for our move to a daily cycle. It may look something like this in the future. Our market research shows that a page like this attracts a large number of readers, who loyally read it every day. Ring Khin Thandar Htay our National Sales Director to book this space permanently and laugh all the way to the bank with the extra business coming in your door.

Telephone us now on +951 392 928

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the pulse 47

Street life captured through the lens

MANNY MAUNG manny.maung@gmail.com IN 2012, architect and film set designer Kim Buddee travelled to Myanmar, and was blown away by what he saw in Yangons colonial architecture. As an architect I was interested in the architecture that is unique in South East Asia, Buddee says. As a filmmaker I was interested in seeing and experiencing somewhere that has for many years been lost in time. But he was concerned to learn that a city that had pretty much survived World War II bombings and nearly 60 years of seclusion from the outside world was now being threatened by the onset of development. I set myself the task of attempting to record what was there in May 2012 as a kind of snapshot of that moment in time, he explains. I realised that not only would the physical structure of the city change but also other aspects would become lost as well: The trains and buses, the street markets and even the fashions and makeup. Whole precincts were being lost to make way for modernisation, which in Buddees eyes also threatened the social and cultural framework that makes up Yangon. Buddee felt compelled to capture the somewhat dystopian setting on camera, resulting in Once was Burma, featuring more than two hundred photographs of the crumbling facades of Yangons once impressive colonial structures; everyday scenes on Yangons streets and quiet, meditative images that convey a moment of reflection from the photographer. I was holding up a mirror to show the elements of the city that I thought would soon be just a memory, he says. I wanted to go beyond the typical postcard views that are shown to tourists and attempt to discover a small part of the real Yangon. The photos are partly a narrative about the city of Yangon at a special moment in time and its also a kind of tribute to the city, to its people and to the future. ............................................................................ Once was Burma: New images from the streets of Rangoon, published by Tour De France Books, is available at Asia Books in Bangkok, Thailand, rrp US$69.95. Stocks will soon be available at Monument Books, Yangon.

A worker at the San Pya Fish markets in Yangon is one of the images captured by photographer Kim Buddee in his collection of photographs, Once was Burma. Photo: Kim Buddee

Does booze help artistic endeavour?

MASON CURREY WERE many of historys great artists also great boozers? Yes and no. Ive found that while many artists did drink a great deal, very few mixed alcohol with their working hours. Even the alcoholics recognised that drinking made their creative output a little too effortless and their appraisal of the results a little too charitable. Sobriety is a requirement of most artistic work. As George Sand wrote in her autobiography: Honestly, I do not believe in a drunk Byron writing beautiful verses. Inspiration can pass through the soul just as easily in the midst of an orgy as in the silence of the woods, but when it is a question of giving form to your thoughts, whether you are secluded in your study or performing on the planks of a stage, you must be in total possession of yourself. Of course, plenty of artists figured out ways to be in total possession of their faculties for a few hours a day and be wasted for much of the remainder. The painter Francis Bacon is a good example. He drank tremendous quantities of alcohol during his long nights out on the town, but he always woke at the first light of day and painted for several hours, usually finishing around noon. Even the occasional hangover was, in Bacons mind, a boon. I often like working with a hangover, he said, because my mind is crackling with energy and I can think very clearly. Hemingway was similarly adept at balancing late-night drinking with early-morning work. His son Gregory recalled that the author seemed immune to hangovers: My father would always look great, as if hed slept a babys sleep in a soundproof room with his eyes covered by black patches. One of the problems for Bacon, Hemingway and numerous other artists was that they could really only work for a few hours a day; after that, they needed to do something to get away from the work and out of their own heads. Alcohol was a reliable escape, and many artists claimed that it inspired them. As Hemingway wrote: When you work hard all day with your head and know you must work again the next day what else can change your ideas and make them run on a different plane like whisky? A few decades later, William Styron expressed much the same sentiment: Ive never written a line in my life while Id had a drink, but in terms of its ability to relax you and to allow you certain visionary moments when youre thinking about your work, I think its very valuable. Lets say a day is finished and youve put in some good hours of writing and youre still perplexed about the next day. Just to be able to have a few drinks and to think in this released mode often gives you very new insights. For this to work, of course, you have to be capable of having just a few drinks. When he was writing Tender Is the Night, F Scott Fitzgerald tried to reserve a portion of each day for sober composition. But he went on regular binges and later admitted to his editor that alcohol had interfered with the novel. It has become increasingly plain to me that the very excellent organisation of a long book or the finest perceptions and judgment in time of revision do not go well with liquor, he wrote. The great comedic actor W C Fields had a similar realisation. Fields initially started drinking onstage and on set because he thought it loosened him up and improved his comic timing. But since he had

Ernest Hemingway enjoys a drink with Jean Patchett and his cat in Cuba in 1950. Photo: Clifford Coffin

a naturally high tolerance for alcohol, it took increasingly large quantities to keep him loose. (Fields once estimated that he imbibed eight or ten cocktails, possibly a bottle of champagne, and a half dozen or more bottles of beer and

ale per day.) He insisted that drinking had never interfered with his work until shortly before his death, when he told a friend from his hospital bed, Ive often wondered how far I could have gone had I laid off the booze. Slate

www.mmtimes.com

the pulse food and drink 49

Cosy up with some comfort food throughout the wet season

PHYO'S COOKING ADVENTURE
My second comfort-food recipe is a simple potato salad. Its perfect paired with roast dinners, or any time you want something cool as a side dish. CHUNKY TOMATOES AND PAE-LUN SOUR AND SPICY SOUP INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 onions (finely diced) 8 tomatoes (chopped into chunks) cup raw pae-lun (beans) 1 tablespoon Tabasco hot sauce 1 handful chopped coriander 4 cups Massel vegetable (or chicken) stock (dissolve 2 teaspoons stock powder in 1 litre water) 1 teaspoon sugar salt and pepper corn chips or tortillas (to serve) PREPARATION Boil the tomatoes on a medium heat until the skins are broken. Let the

phyocooking@gmail.com

f the rainy monsoon weather has you down, dont worry: This weeks recipe is easy to manage, keeping you out of the kitchen and curled up nice and cosy. Inspired by Mexican-style bean soup, Ive opted to make a soup with chunky tomatoes and pae-lun beans. I love the texture of pae-lun beans: Theyre normally paired with steamed sticky rice in Myanmar, but theyre also a great substitute for red kidney beans. This soup is perfect for vegetarians, and for meat-lovers, I would just add beef mince and use chicken stock instead vegetarian stock.

tomatoes cool then peel the skins off and discard. Roughly chop the cooked tomatoes. Soak the beans in water overnight. Discard the used water, and then boil in fresh water gently until the beans become soft. Heat a stock pot over a medium heat and saut the diced onion in olive oil. When the onions turn a golden colour, add the chunks of tomato. After two-three minutes, add the boiled beans. Pour the stock into the pot and mix in the Tabasco sauce and sugar (for balancing the acidity in the tomatoes), and heat until boiling. When the liquid starts to bubble, turn down the heat and let simmer for at least 45 minutes. Add half of the coriander, and salt and black pepper to taste. To serve, pour into bowls and garnish with remaining coriander. Serve with corn chips or roasted tortillas. POTATO SALAD WITH DIJON MUSTARD DRESSING INGREDIENTS 400 grams potatoes 4 rashers bacon 2 tablespoons whole egg mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 spring onions (sliced) Salt and black pepper to taste PREPARATION Boil the potatoes until soft. Remove from water, peel and discard skins. Cut

Potato salad with Dijon mustard dressing. Photo: Phyo

Chunky tomatoes and pae-lun sour and spicy soup. Photo: Phyo

potatoes into eight equal-sized pieces. Fry the bacon rashers in a nonstick frying pan. When they become crisp, remove from heat and lay out on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Cut into small pieces. Mix all other ingredients except spring onions in a small bowl. Transfer the mix into a bigger bowl and toss gently with the boiled potatoes. Serve with a garnish of spring onions. SHOPPING Look for pae-lun beans at local markets and supermarkets. Sharkys stocks fresh and crispy toasted tortillas. TIPS Cut across the tops of the tomatoes

before boiling. It will make it easier to peel off the skins. Remember to wash potatoes thoroughly before use. Add a spoonful of salt to the water while boiling. QUOTES Know how to garnish food so that it is more appealing to the eye and even more flavorful than before. Marilyn vos Savant Marilyn vos Savant is an American magazine columnist, author, lecturer and playwright. She is also known for having been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records under Highest IQbefore the category was retired. NEXT WEEK More soups for rainy days.

Wine Review
R W ED IN E
Redbank The Long Paddock Shiraz 2010 This Shiraz is sure to instill the grape as an Australian mainstay. It knocks around berries and chocolates with slight hints of charcoal, and doesnt fail to get one merry at 13.5% alcohol (fairly high even for an Aussie Shiraz).

Sushi-on-down with some of MTs favourites

THERE are many ways to embarrass one self in unfamiliar dining surroundings. Sure, you may think youre a smooth operator because you managed to get through a round of maki rolls without getting wasabi on your shirt. But what if, when familiar faces join the table, you find out everything you have been doing is wrong? What if gasp youre that person, the one who makes the locals cringe and your friends cry out? For shame! No need to give up hope: The Myanmar Times (MT) is looking out for you. Thanks to our guide to proper sushi etiquette, youll soon be fearlessly wielding chopsticks like a samurai. Weve also compiled some of our favourite places to eat sushi around Yangon. Ichiban Kan Sushi is plated traditional-style: For example, the wasabi is served in the sushi roll rather than separately. The owner is Japanese, one reviewer said. What more kudos is needed? G-17/18 Aung San Stadium (north wing), Mingalar Taungnyunt, Yangon, Ph: 01 394824 Samurai Sushi The atmosphere isnt exactly Tokyo, since the restaurant is wedged into the ground floor of a residential apartment block on Wingaba Road in Bahan township. But the food, especially the fried octopus arms and platters of sushi, is tasty and reliable. Best head there by taxi parking is at a premium. 78C Inya Road, Kamaryut township, Yangon, Ph: 09 5132 423 Wasabi This converted house offers the type of Japanese fare that requires you to leave your shoes downtown and replace them with slippers. Wasabi also offers icy-cold Myanmar beer on tap. 2B Kabar Aye Pagoda Road, near MiCasa Hotel, Yangkin township, Yangon, Ph: 01 666781 Mondo The food here is outstanding, but make sure to take someone who speak Japanese with you. The wait-staff only speak Japanese and the menu is written in Japanese. Enter through a quaint little wooden door. Tall people beware you will have to duck to enter. 26B Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon township, Yangon, Ph: 01 252261 Shiawase Sushi Cheap as chips and great value for money, Shiawase Sushi does a mixed sushi set for as cheap as K3000. The seaweed salad is also a sweet deal at just K1000. 36/40, A-1, Bo Yar Nyunt Street, Dagon township, Yangon, Ph: 09 49259184, 09 45004643 Ajishin Japanese restaurant Located behind Sedona Hotel, this is first-class Japanese dining. This is the type of place Japanese business people go and make or break the big deals. 18B Thukhawadi Lane, Yanking township, Yangon, Ph: 01 562701, 293640 Manny Maung

Score

15,000

/10

W W HIT IN E E
Score

The Winery of Good Hope

Chenin Blanc 2011 This South African Chenin Blanc is not afraid to yell out to the world pay attention! A mouthful of this nectar is packed tight with flavour, scaling from fresh lime to a beautifully balanced sherbet.

13,000

/10

Use the Sushi Etiquette guide to master your skills at devouring sushi. Photo: Creative Commons

50 the pulse socialite

Amazing One opening ceremony

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Daw Ye Ye Htun, Daw Thida Han and U Pyae Sone Win Naing

U Soe Kyi and U Sai Aung Kyaw

Grace and Amy

Chan Chan Myint

SAIL Marketing and Communication Advertising Company launch

Kracie new product launch at Junction Mawtin on June 15.

Business is Great Britain reception

Khine Zin and Htay Htay Dr. Khin Khin Kyout

Pyae Phyo John Handela

Kar Kar

Pa Pa Win Khin

Lord Stephen Green (UK Trade Minister)

Bangladesh Foreign Secretary reception

Myanmar Media Development Center Graduation Ceremony

Kaung Khant Zaw

Md Shahidul Haque Rezina Ahmed

Zafrin Chowdhury

Mag-Gen Anup Kumar Chakma and Robert Chua

Bryan Hall

Hnin Hlaing Shwe Yi

Shu Ma Nyee Aung

www.mmtimes.com
X Wave Graduation Ceremony

the pulse socialite 51

NAUM BWAI
hknuambawi@gmail.com

AFTER relaxing a bit last week, Socialite kicked off the week at the Business is Great Britain reception at Traders Hotel on June 13. On the following day she joined the press meeting of Jupiter MLC Logistics (Myanmar) Limited at Sedona Hotel, followed by the Actors Vs Singers football match for fundraising for disables federation at Aung San Stadium. Socialite attended Kracie new product launching at Junction Mawtin and the Bangladesh embassys reception for its Foreign Secretary, Mr Shahidul Haque, at Yangon Hotel in 8 Mile on June 15. June 16 saw Socialite popping her head in at the grand opening ceremony of SAIL Marketing & Communication Advertising and Amazing One Company Ltd. She finished up her week by attending the graduation ceremony of X Wave International School at Excel Treasure Hotel and MMDC College. More exciting adventures expected next week!

Peter Chan

Han Su Htein, Thaingar, Mra Thitsar, Helan, Dorothy, Kyawt Thiri Nyunt, Htet Thiri Shwe and Nay Pwint Phyu

Jupiter MLC Logistics (Myanmar) Limited Press

Actors and singers football match for disable fundraising

U Aung Kyaw Min, Freddy, Yoneyama, U Waso Win Myint and Group

Thaw Thaw Naing

May Kabyar and Khin Lay Nwe

Mi Sandy, Nan Thuzar

Awn Seng

Bobby Soxer and Sandy Myint Lwin

52 the pulse travel

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

DOMESTIC FLIGHT SCHEDULES

YANGON TO NAY PYI TAW Day MON Flight 6T 401 UB-A1 UB-B1 UB-C1 UB-A1 UB-B1 UB-C1 UB-A1 UB-B1 UB-C1 UB-A1 UB-B1 UB-C1 UB-A1 UB-B1 6T 211 UB-C1 UB-A1 UB-A1 Flight UB-A2 UB-B2 UB-C2 UB-A2 UB-B2 UB-C2 UB-A2 UB-B2 UB-C2 UB-A2 UB-B2 UB-C2 UB-A2 UB-B2 6T 212 UB-C2 UB-A2 UB-A2 Flight YJ 201 YH 917 Y5 234 K7 222 YJ 143/W97143 W9 143 6T 401 W9 201 K7 624 YH 727 YJ 761 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 K7 226 W9 143 YJ 143/W97143 W9 201 8M 6603 W9 251 K7 822 YH 729 YJ 761 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 YJ 201 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W97143 W9 201 K7 826 K7 624 YH 737 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 YJ201 YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 K7 226 YJ 143/W97143 W9 143 W9 201 8M 6603 YH 729 YJ 761 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 W9 201 K7 826 K7 626 YJ 143/W97143 YJ 751/W9 7751 W9 251 YH 727 YJ 211 K7 622 K7 824 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 Dep 7:00 7:30 11:30 16:30 7:30 11:30 16:30 7:30 11:30 16:30 7:30 11:30 16:30 7:30 11:30 15:30 16:30 8:00 15:30 NAY PYI TAW TO YANGON Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI Dep 8:50 13:00 18:00 8:50 13:00 18:00 8:50 13:00 18:00 8:50 13:00 18:00 8:50 13:00 17:00 18:00 10:00 17:00 YANGON TO MANDALAY Day MON Dep 6:10 6:10 6:15 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:30 8:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 6:45 7:00 7:00 7:30 9:00 10:00 10:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:30 7:30 8:00 11:15 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 6:45 7:00 7:00 7:30 9:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 7:30 8:00 7:00 9:00 10:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 13:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 Arr 8:05 8:40 7:30 8:40 9:05 9:05 9:40 8:55 9:25 13:25 13:25 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 8:10 9:05 9:05 8:55 10:10 11:25 13:45 14:15 13:25 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 16:40 8:40 8:15 7:30 8:35 8:40 9:05 9:05 8:55 9:35 9:25 13:25 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 16:40 8:05 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 8:10 9:05 9:05 8:55 10:10 14:15 13:25 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 16:40 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 9:05 8:55 9:35 9:25 9:05 10:55 11:25 13:25 12:55 13:25 14:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 Arr 9:50 14:00 19:00 9:50 14:00 19:00 9:50 14:00 19:00 9:50 14:00 19:00 9:50 14:00 17:55 19:00 11:00 18:00 Arr 7:55 8:30 12:30 17:30 8:30 12:30 17:30 8:30 12:30 17:30 8:30 12:30 17:30 8:30 12:30 16:25 17:30 9:00 16:30 SAT YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 YJ 761 W9 201 K7 822 YH 729 YJ 601/W9 7601 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 YJ 211 YH 917 Y5 234 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W97143 W9 201 K7 822 K7 626 8M 6603 YH 737 YJ 751/W9 7751 K7 622 W9 129 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YH 731 Flight Y5 233 YH 918 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 YJ 143/W97143 6T 402 YJ 202 K7 625 W9 120 YJ 762 W9 129 K7 623 6T 502/K7 225 YH 728 K7 225 Y5 233 YH 918 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 623 W9 129 YH 731 K7 225 6T 502/K7 225 W9 252 YJ 762 8M 6604 YH 730 K7 823 Y5 233 YH 918 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 YJ 143/W9 7143 Y5 132 YJ 202 K7 625 W9 120 K7 623 W9 129 YH 731 YJ 752/W9 7752 K7 225 6T 502/K7 225 YH 738 Y5 233 YH 918 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 YJ 143/W9 7143 YJ 202 K7 623 W9 129 YH 732 YJ 762 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 8M 6604 YH 730 Y5 233 YH 918 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 YJ 143/W97143 Y5 132 YJ 7525/W9 7752 YH 728 K7 623 W9 129 YJ 212 K7 225 6T 502/K7 225 YJ 752/W9 7752 W9 252 K7 825 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:30 10:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:00 6:10 6:15 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:30 7:30 8:00 9:00 11:15 11:30 12:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 Dep 8:10 8:40 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:20 10:00 11:10 14:40 15:45 16:30 16:40 16:40 16:50 16:45 16:50 8:10 8:40 8:55 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:20 16:40 16:40 16:40 16:50 16:50 17:05 17:05 17:20 18:00 18:00 8:10 8:40 8:55 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:20 9:30 11:20 14:40 15:45 16:40 16:40 16:40 16:45 16:50 16:50 17:25 8:10 8:40 8:55 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:20 11:10 16:40 16:40 16:40 17:05 16:50 16:50 17:20 18:00 8:10 8:40 8:55 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:20 9:30 15:50 16:45 16:40 16:40 16:30 16:50 16:50 16:50 17:05 17:40 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 9:05 8:20 8:55 8:55 13:45 14:15 12:55 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 16:40 7:25 8:40 7:30 8:35 8:40 9:05 9:05 8:55 9:35 9:25 10:10 13:25 13:25 13:25 16:25 16:35 16:35 16:40 Arr 9:25 10:45 11:00 11:05 10:45 11:15 12:00 12:35 16:05 17:10 18:25 18:45 18:05 19:00 18:10 19:00 9:25 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 10:45 11:15 18:05 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 18:30 18:30 18:30 19:25 19:25 9:25 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 10:45 11:15 10:30 12:45 16:05 17:10 18:05 18:45 18:45 18:40 19:00 19:00 18:50 9:25 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 10:45 11:15 12:35 18:05 18:45 18:45 18:30 19:00 19:00 18:30 19:25 9:25 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 10:45 11:15 10:30 17:15 18:10 18:05 18:45 17:55 19:00 19:00 18:15 18:30 19:05 SAT Y5 233 YH 918 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 201 W9 144 Y5 132 YJ 212 W9 120 K7 623 W9 129 K7 225 6T 502/K7 225 YH 732 YJ 752/W9 7752 YH 730 Y5 233 YH 918 YJ 892 YJ 143/W9 7143 6T 402/K7 223 K7 223 W9 201 W9 144 Y5 132 YJ 212 W9 129 YJ 725/W9 7752 6T 502/K7 225 K7 623 YH 732 K7 225 8M 6604 YH 738 Flight YH 917 YJ 143/W97143 W9 143 6T 401 K7 222 YH 909 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 W9 143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 YJ 201 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 K7 242 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W97143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 K7 242 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 917 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7 222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 Flight YH 917 6T 401 YH 910 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 YH 732 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 W9 143 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 YH 732 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 8:10 8:40 8:55 8:55 9:20 9:10 9:20 9:30 11:00 15:45 16:40 16:40 16:50 16:50 16:40 17:25 18:00 8:10 8:40 8:30 9:20 8:55 8:55 9:10 9:20 9:30 12:00 16:40 16:50 16:50 16:40 16:40 16:50 17:20 17:25 Dep 6:10 7:00 7:00 7:00 6:30 6:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 15:00 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 14:30 14:30 7:00 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:10 6:30 6:30 6:45 7:00 7:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 6:45 7:00 7:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 14:30 14:30 14:15 14:30 14:30 Dep 7:45 9:10 8:55 8:05 8:35 8:35 17:25 17:40 17:45 17:55 7:45 8:05 8:35 8:05 8:35 17:25 17:25 17:40 17:45 9:25 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:15 11:05 10:45 10:30 12:25 17:10 18:05 18:45 19:00 19:00 18:45 18:50 19:25 9:25 10:45 10:25 11:15 10:55 11:00 11:05 10:45 10:30 13:25 18:45 18:15 19:00 18:05 18:45 19:00 18:30 18:50 Arr 7:45 8:20 8:20 8:55 7:50 8:55 17:10 17:20 17:25 17:55 7:45 7:50 7:50 8:20 17:10 17:20 8:20 17:25 17:25 7:45 7:30 7:50 7:50 8:05 8:20 8:20 17:10 17:20 17:25 17:25 7:45 7:50 7:50 8:20 8:20 17:10 17:20 17:25 17:25 7:45 7:50 7:50 8:05 8:20 8:20 17:10 17:20 17:25 7:45 7:50 7:50 8:20 8:20 17:10 17:20 17:25 17:25 7:45 7:50 7:50 8:20 8:20 17:10 17:20 16:25 17:25 17:25 Arr 10:45 12:00 10:15 11:00 10:45 11:15 18:45 19:00 19:00 19:15 10:45 10:55 10:45 11:00 11:15 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 WED YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 225 W9 129 YH 732 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 YH 732 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 225 W9 129 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 W9 143 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 225 W9 129 YH 732 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 W9 143 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 129 YH 732 6T 502/K7 225 K7 225 Flight YJ 201 K7 624 K7 622 K7 844 W9 251 K7 622 YJ 201 K7 624 K7 622 YJ 201 K7 844 K7 622 K7 626 W9 251 YJ 211 K7 622 YJ 211 K7 626 K7 622 Flight YJ 202 K7 625 K7 623 K7 845 K7 623 W9 252 K7 625 K7 623 YJ 202 K7 845 K7 623 YJ 202 K7 627 YJ 211 K7 623 W9 252 K7 623 YJ 211 K7 627 K7 623 Flight YH 917 YJ 143/W9 7143 6T 401 W9 201 K7 222 K7 828 W9 119 YH 727 YJ 761 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7 224 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 W9 201 K7 822 YJ 761 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 826 W9 201 W9 119 YJ 751/W9 7751 YH 737 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7 224 YH 731 7:45 8:05 8:05 8:35 8:35 16:40 17:25 17:25 17:40 17:45 7:45 8:05 8:05 8:35 8:35 17:25 17:40 17:45 7:45 8:05 8:05 8:35 8:35 16:40 17:25 17:40 17:45 7:45 8:05 8:35 8:05 8:35 16:40 17:25 17:25 17:40 17:45 7:45 8:05 8:05 8:35 8:35 17:25 17:25 17:40 17:45 Dep 6:10 8:00 12:00 7:30 10:00 12:00 6:10 8:00 12:00 6:10 7:30 12:00 8:00 10:00 11:30 12:00 6:00 8:00 12:00 MYITKYINA TO YANGON Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI Dep 9:45 13:10 15:10 11:20 15:10 15:35 13:10 15:10 9:55 11:20 15:10 9:45 11:45 14:35 15:10 15:35 15:10 9:05 11:45 15:10 YANGON TO HEHO Day MON Dep 6:10 7:00 7:00 7:30 6:30 7:30 10:30 11:15 11:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 10:00 11:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 7:30 10:30 11:30 11:15 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 Arr 9:35 9:50 10:35 9:40 9:30 8:45 11:40 12:40 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 9:35 9:30 9:30 9:50 9:40 11:15 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 15:55 9:35 9:30 9:30 9:50 8:45 9:40 11:40 12:40 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 15:55 Arr 12:35 16:05 18:05 16:00 18:05 18:30 16:05 18:05 12:45 16:00 18:05 12:35 15:15 17:55 18:05 18:30 18:05 12:25 15:15 18:05 10:45 10:55 11:00 10:45 11:15 18:00 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 10:45 11:15 18:45 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 10:45 11:15 18:00 18:45 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 10:45 11:00 11:15 18:00 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 10:45 11:15 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 Arr 9:30 10:55 14:55 11:05 12:55 14:55 9:40 10:55 14:55 9:30 11:05 14:55 11:30 12:55 14:20 14:55 8:50 11:30 14:55 THUR YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 828 W9 201 YJ 761 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 826 W9 201 YJ 751/W9 7751 YH 727 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7224 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 761 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 828 W9 201 K7 822 W9 119 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7 224 YH 731 YH 917 6T 401/K7222 K7 222 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 822 W9 201 YJ 751/W9 7751 YH 737 6T 501/K7 224 W9 129 K7 224 YH 731 Flight YH 918 K7 828 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 6T 402 K7 829 W9 120 W9 129 YH 728 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 823 W9 129 YH 731 K7 224 6T 501/K7 224 YJ 762 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 827 W9 120 W9 129 YH 731 6T 501/K7 224 YH 738 K7 224 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 829 YJ 762 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 731 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 827 W9 129 YH 728 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 YJ 762 K7 829 K7 823 W9 120 YH 731 W9 129 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 918 6T 402/K7223 K7 223 W9 201 YJ 143/W9 7143 K7 823 W9 129 YH 731 6T 501/K7 224 K7 224 YH 738 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 7:30 11:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 7:30 9:00 11:15 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:00 7:30 7:30 10:00 10:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 6:10 6:30 6:30 7:00 7:30 7:30 11:30 11:15 14:30 14:30 14:30 14:30 Dep 9:35 7:30 9:45 9:55 10:05 10:50 13:50 15:00 15:55 16:00 16:00 16:00 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 14:50 15:55 15:55 16:00 16:00 16:20 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 13:40 15:00 15:55 15:55 16:00 16:40 16:00 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 13:50 16:20 15:55 16:00 16:00 15:55 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 13:40 15:55 16:00 16:00 16:00 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 11:50 13:40 14:50 15:00 15:55 15:55 16:00 16:00 9:35 9:45 9:45 9:55 10:05 13:40 15:55 15:55 16:00 16:00 16:40 9:35 9:30 9:30 9:50 8:45 9:40 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 15:55 9:35 9:30 9:30 9:50 8:45 9:40 10:10 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 9:35 9:30 9:30 8:10 9:50 8:45 9:40 11:15 11:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 15:55 9:35 9:30 9:30 9:50 8:45 9:40 12:40 12:40 15:40 15:40 15:45 15:55 Arr 10:45 8:45 11:00 11:05 11:15 12:00 15:05 17:10 18:45 18:10 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 16:05 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 18:30 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 14:55 17:10 18:45 18:45 19:00 18:50 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 15:05 18:30 18:45 19:00 19:00 18:45 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 14:55 18:45 18:10 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 14:00 14:55 16:05 17:10 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 10:45 10:55 11:00 11:05 11:15 14:55 18:45 18:45 19:00 19:00 18:50 YANGON TO SITTWE Day MON TUE WED THRU FRI SAT SUN Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Flight 6T 607 K7 426 6T 611 6T 611 K7 426 6T 611 6T 605 K7 426 6T 611 6T 611 Flight 6T 608 K7 427 6T 612 6T 612 K7 427 6T 612 6T 606 K7 427 6T 612 K7 423 6T 612 Flight K7 319 YH 633 K7 319 YJ 301 6T 707 K7 319 YH 633 K7 319 YH 633 K7 319 YH 633 K7 319 6T 707 K7 319 YH 633 6T 707 Flight K7 320 YH 634 6T 708 YJ 302 K7 320 K7 320 YH 634 YH 634 K7 320 YH 634 K7 320 K7 320 6T 708 K7 320 YH 634 6T 708 Flight 6T 607 6T 605 Flight 6T 608 6T 605 Dep 12:30 13:00 14:30 14:30 13:00 14:30 11:15 13:00 14:30 11:30 SITTWE TO YANGON Dep 14:15 14:35 16:15 16:15 14:35 16:15 13:35 14:35 16:15 8:55 13:15 YANGON TO MYEIK Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Dep 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:30 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 11:15 7:00 7:00 7:30 MYEIK TO YANGON Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Dep 11:30 11:25 11:55 11:25 11:30 11:30 11:25 11:25 11:30 11:25 11:30 11:30 15:40 11:30 11:25 11:55 YANGON TO THANDWE Day MON FRI Day MON FRI Dep 12:30 11:15 THANDWE TO YANGON Dep 15:20 12:25 Arr 16:15 15:00 Arr 15:05 12:10 Arr 13:35 13:25 13:55 13:35 13:35 13:35 13:25 13:25 13:35 13:25 13:35 13:35 17:40 13:35 13:25 13:55 Arr 9:05 9:15 9:05 9:10 9:30 9:05 9:15 9:05 9:15 9:05 9:15 9:05 13:15 9:05 9:15 9:30 Arr 16:15 15:55 17:40 17:40 15:55 17:40 15:00 15:55 17:40 10:50 14:40 Arr 13:55 14:20 15:55 15:55 14:20 15:55 13:15 14:20 15:55 12:55

TUE WED THUR FRI

THUR

FRI

SUN

SUN

FRI

SAT SUN

SAT

SAT

SUN

MANDALAY TO YANGON Day MON

YANGON TO NYAUNG U Day MON

SUN

SAT SUN

YANGON TO MYITKYINA Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI Day MON

HEHO TO YANGON

TUE

TUE

WED

TUE

TUE

SUN

THUR

WED

WED

WED

FRI

Domestic Airlines
Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)
Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102

THUR

SAT

SAT SUN

Air KBZ (K7)

Tel: 372977~80, 533030~39 (Airport), Fax: 372983

Air Mandalay (6T)

Tel : (Head Office) 501520, 525488, Fax: 525937. Airport: 533222~3, 09-73152853. Fax: 533223.

THUR

THUR

FRI

Asian Wings (AW)

Tel: 951 516654, 532253, 09-731-35991~3. Fax: 951 532333

SUN

Golden Myanmar Airlines (Y5)

Tel: 95 9 400446999, 95 9 400447999, Mobile: 95 9 5020711, Fax: 95 9 73256067

Yangon Airways(YH)
Tel: (+95-1) 383 100, 383 107, 700 264, Fax: 652 533.

TUE

SAT

NYAUNG U TO YANGON Day MON

FMI Air Charter - Sales & Reservations

Tel: (95-1) 240363, 240373 / (+95-9) 421146545

FRI

FRI

Domestic
6T = Air Mandalay W9 = Air Bagan YJ = Asian Wings K7 = AIR KBZ YH = Yangon Airways UB = FMI UB Charter Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines

WED

SUN

TUE

Subject to change without notice

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the pulse travel 53

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SCHEDULES

YANGON TO BANGKOK Flight Dep Arr PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 PG 704 18:20 20:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 TG 306 19:45 21:40 TUE PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 WED PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 THUR PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 FRI PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 SAT PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 SUN PG 706 7:15 9:30 8M 335 9:00 10:45 TG 304 9:50 11:45 PG 702 10:30 12:25 TG 302 14:55 16:50 8M 331 16:30 18:15 Y5 237 18:05 19:50 PG 704 18:20 20:15 TG 306 19:45 21:40 Day MON YANGON TO DON MUENG Day Flight Dep Arr MON FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 TUE FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 WED FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 THUR FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 FRI FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 SAT FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 SUN FD 2752 8:30 10:20 FD 2756 12:15 14:05 FD 2754 17:50 19:35 YANGON TO SINGAPORE Flight Dep Arr MI 509 0:25 5:00 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 3K 586 11:30 16:05 MI 517 16:40 21:15 TUE MI 509 0:25 5:00 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 3K 586 11:30 16:05 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 VN 942 14:25 17:10 MI 517 16:40 21:15 WED 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 3K 586 11:30 16:05 MI 517 16:40 21:15 THUR 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 3K 586 11:30 16:05 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 VN 942 14:25 17:10 MI 517 16:40 21:15 FRI 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 3K 586 11:30 16:05 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 8M 233 15:05 19:30 MI 517 16:40 21:15 SAT MI 509 0:25 5:00 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 3K 586 11:30 16:05 8M 233 15:05 19:30 MI 517 16:40 21:15 SUN MI 509 0:25 5:00 8M 231 8:00 12:25 Y5 233 10:10 14:40 SQ 997 10:25 14:45 3K 586 11:30 16:05 8M 6232 11:30 16:05 VN 942 14:25 17:10 8M 233 15:05 19:30 MI 517 16:40 21:15 Day MON YANGON TO KUALA LUMPUR Flight Dep Arr 8M 501 7:50 11:50 AK 1427 8:30 12:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 TUE AK 1427 8:30 12:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 MH 743 16:55 21:10 WED AK 1427 8:30 12:50 8M 501 7:50 11:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 THUR AK 1427 8:30 12:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 FRI 8M 501 7:50 11:50 AK 1427 8:30 12:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 MH 743 16:55 21:10 SAT AK 1427 8:30 12:50 8M 501 7:50 11:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 SUN AK 1427 8:30 12:50 MH 741 12:15 16:30 AK 1425 16:45 21:00 MH 743 16:55 21:10 Day MON YANGON TO BEIJING Day Flight Dep Arr TUE CA 906 14:15 21:55 WED CA 906 14:15 21:55 THUR CA 906 14:15 21:55 SAT CA 906 14:15 21:55 SUN CA 906 14:15 21:55 Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Day MON TUE WED FRI Day MON TUE YANGON TO GAUNGZHOU Flight Dep Arr CZ 3056 17:40 22:15 8M 711 8:40 13:15 CZ 3056 11:20 15:50 8M 711 8:40 13:15 CZ 3056 17:40 22:15 CZ 3056 11:20 15:50 8M 711 8:40 13:15 YANGON TO TAIPEI Flight Dep Arr CI 7916 10:50 16:15 CI 7916 10:50 16:15 CI 7916 10:50 16:15 CI 7916 10:50 16:15 Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN MANDALAY TO KUNMING Flight Dep Arr MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 MU 2030 14:40 17:20 SUN SQ 998 8M 6231 3K 585 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234 MI 520 Y5 234 7:55 9:10 9:10 13:25 14:20 20:30 22:10 15:35 9:20 10:40 10:40 14:50 15:45 21:55 23:35 17:05 Day MON WED FRI SAT SUN Day TUE THUR SUN Day MON WED FRI SAT Day TUE FRI SAT SUN Day WED THUR SUN Day WED SAT Day MON TUE WED HANOI TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr VN 957 16:35 18:10 VN 957 16:35 18:10 VN 957 16:35 18:10 VN 957 16:35 18:10 VN 957 16:35 18:10 HO CHI MINH CITY TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr VN 943 11:40 13:25 VN 943 11:40 13:25 VN 943 11:40 13:25 Flight 8M 602 8M 602 8M 602 8M 602 GAYA TO YANGON Dep 9:20 9:20 9:20 9:20 Arr 12:30 12:30 12:30 12:30

YANGON TO KUNMING Flight Dep Arr MU 2032 14:40 18:00 CA 906 14:15 17:35 MU 2032 14:40 18:00 WED MU 2012 12:20 18:35 CA 906 14:15 17:35 THUR CA 906 14:15 17:35 MU 2032 14:40 18:00 FRI MU 2032 14:40 18:00 SAT CA 906 14:15 17:35 MU 2032 14:40 18:00 SUN CA 906 14:15 17:35 MU 2032 14:40 18:00 YANGON TO CHIANG MAI Day Flight Dep Arr THUR W9 9607 14:20 16:10 SUN W9 9607 14:20 16:10 Day MON WED FRI SAT SUN Day TUE THUR SUN Day MON WED FRI SAT YANGON TO HANOI Flight Dep Arr VN 956 19:10 21:30 VN 956 19:10 21:30 VN 956 19:10 21:30 VN 956 19:10 21:30 VN 956 19:10 21:30 YANGON TO HO CHI MINH CITY Flight Dep Arr VN 942 14:25 17:10 VN 942 14:25 17:10 VN 942 14:25 17:10 Flight 8M 601 8M 601 8M 601 8M 601 YANGON TO GAYA Dep 7:00 7:00 7:00 7:00 Arr 8:20 8:20 8:20 8:20

BANGKOK TO YANGON Day Flight Dep Arr MON 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 TUE 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 WED 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 THUR 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 FRI 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 SAT 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 SUN 8M 336 6:15 7:00 FD 3770 7:15 8:00 TG 303 7:55 8:50 PG 701 8:50 9:40 TG 301 13:00 13:45 PG 703 16:45 17:35 FD 3772 16:50 17:35 TG 305 17:50 18:45 8M 332 19:15 20:00 PG 705 20:15 21:30 Y5 238 21:10 21:55 DON MUENG TO YANGON Day Flight Dep Arr MON FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 TUE FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 WED FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 THUR FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 FRI FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 SAT FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 SUN FD 2751 7:15 8:00 FD 2755 11:10 11:45 FD 2753 16:35 17:20 Day MON SINGAPORE TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr SQ 998 7:55 9:20 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 520 22:10 23:35 MI 518 14:20 15:45 Y5 234 15:35 17:05 TUE SQ 998 7:55 9:20 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 518 14:20 15:45 Y5 234 15:35 17:05 WED SQ 998 7:55 9:20 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 518 14:20 15:45 Y5 234 15:35 17:05 THUR SQ 998 7:55 9:20 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 518 14:20 15:45 Y5 234 15:35 17:05 FRI SQ 998 7:55 9:20 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 518 14:20 15:45 8M 234 20:30 21:55 MI 520 22:10 23:35 Y5 234 15:35 17:05 SAT SQ 998 7:55 9:20 3K 585 9:10 10:40 8M 6231 9:10 10:40 8M 232 13:25 14:50 MI 518 14:20 15:45 8M 234 20:30 21:55 MI 520 22:10 23:35 Y5 234 15:35 17:05

Day TUE WED THUR SAT SUN

BEIJING TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr CA 905 8:05 13:15 CA 905 8:05 13:15 CA 905 8:05 13:15 CA 905 8:05 13:15 CA 905 8:05 13:15

Australias new Chief Funster

SYDNEY

KAULA LUMPUR TO YANGON Day Flight Dep Arr MON AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 8M 502 12:50 13:50 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 TUE AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 MH 742 14:45 15:55 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 WED AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 8M 502 12:50 13:50 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 THUR AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 FRI AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 8M 502 12:50 13:50 MH 742 14:45 15:55 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 SAT AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 8M 502 12:50 13:50 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 SUN AK 1426 6:55 8:00 MH 740 10:05 11:15 MH 742 14:45 15:55 AK 1424 15:05 16:15 Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Day MON TUE WED FRI SAT GUANGZHOU TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr CZ 3055 14:45 16:35 8M 712 14:15 15:50 CZ 3055 8:40 10:30 8M 712 14:15 15:50 CZ 3055 14:45 16:35 CZ 3055 8:40 10:30 8M 712 14:15 15:50 TAIPEI TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr CI 7915 7:00 9:55 CI 7915 7:00 9:55 BR 287 7:45 10:35 CI 7915 7:00 9:55 CI 7915 7:00 9:55 BR 287 7:45 10:35 BR 287 7:45 10:35

BANGKOK TO MANDALAY Flight Dep Arr TG 781 7:25 8:50 TG 781 7:25 8:50 TG 781 7:25 8:50 TG 781 7:25 8:50 Flight QR 618 QR 618 QR 618 DOHA TO YANGON Dep Arr 21:05 07:00+1 21:05 07:00+1 21:05 07:00+1

PHNOM PENH TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr 8M 404 20:15 21:40 8M 404 20:15 21:40 SEOUL TO YANGON Dep Arr 18:40 22:15 18:40 22:15 18:40 22:15 19:50 23:25 18:40 22:15 18:40 22:15 18:40 22:15 19:50 23:25 18:40 22:15

Flight KE 471 KE 471 KE 471 0Z 769 THUR KE 471 FRI KE 471 SAT KE 471 0Z 769 SUN KE 471 Day MON WED SAT Day MON WED FRI SUN Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN

TOKYO TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr NH 913 10:30 15:30 NH 913 10:30 15:30 NH 913 10:30 15:30 HONG KONG TO YANGON Flight Dep Arr KA 250 21:45 23:30 KA 250 21:45 23:30 KA 250 21:45 23:30 KA 250 21:45 23:30 DON MUEANG TO MANDALAY Flight Dep Arr FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 FD 2760 10:50 12:15 KUNMING TO MANDALAY Flight Dep Arr MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50 MU 2029 13:55 13:50

KUNMING TO YANGON Day Flight Dep Arr MON MU 2031 13:30 13:55 TUE CA 905 12:40 13:15 MU 2031 13:30 13:55 WED CA 905 12:40 13:15 MU 2011 8:20 11:30 THUR CA 905 12:40 13:15 MU 2031 13:30 13:55 FRI MU 2031 13:30 13:55 SAT CA 905 12:40 13:15 MU 2031 13:30 13:55 SUN CA 905 12:40 13:15 MU 2031 13:30 13:55 CHIANG MAI TO YANGON Day Flight Dep Arr THUR W9 9608 17:20 18:10 SUN W9 9608 17:20 18:10

International Airlines
Air Asia (FD)
Tel: 251 885, 251 886.

YANGON TO DOHA Day Flight Dep Arr MON QR 619 8:15 11:15 THUR QR 619 8:15 11:15 FRI QR 619 8:15 11:15 Day WED SAT Day MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN YANGON TO PHNOM PENH Flight Dep Arr 8M 403 16:50 19:15 8M 403 16:50 19:15 YANGON TO SEOUL Flight Dep Arr KE 472 23:45:00 8:05+1:00 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 0Z 770 0:35 9:10 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 KE 472 23:40:00 8:05+1:00 0Z 4763 0:35 9:10

Air Bagan Ltd.(W9) Air China (CA) Air India

Golden Myanmar Airlines (Y5)

Tel: 95 9 400446999, 95 9 400447999, Mobile: 95 9 5020711, Fax: 95 9 73256067

Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Tel : 666112, 655882. Tel : 253597~98, 254758. Fax: 248175

Malaysia Airlines (MH) Myanmar Airways International(8M)

Tel : 255260, Fax: 255305

Tel : 387648, 241007 ext : 120, 121, 122 Fax : 241124

Bangkok Airways (PG) Condor (DE)

Tel: + 95 1 -370836 up to 39 (ext : 810)

Tel: 255122, 255 265, Fax: 255119

Silk Air(MI)

USTRALIA has selected a Californian as Chief Funster and an Irish Internet entrepreneur as Outback Adventurer in its Best Jobs in the World competition, a campaign that attracted 330,000 applicants from 196 nations. Blimey, gasped Englishman Rich Keam as he was named Taste Master, a job that will see him spend six months in Western Australia touring the huge states best restaurants, wineries, breweries and pubs. Queensland is just beautiful. I chose well, beamed Frenchwoman Elisa Detrez, who will spend her time patrolling the tropical beaches of the Sunshine State as a park ranger, taking rainforest walks and promoting Australias unique native plants and animals. I think Australia is a bit like the new El Dorado, Detrez said. Everybody wants to come here because the life is just so cool, and the weather is better, and the [financial] crisis is not here. So we all want to come here. Other winners were Brazilian Roberto Seba who will be a lifestyle photographer in Melbourne and Canadian Greg Snell who will become a wildlife caretaker in South Australia, while American Cameron Ernst gets to travel the country on Virgin Australia to champion the best customer service experiences. Australia first announced the jobs in March as a marketing push to build on the success of its 2009 Best Job in the World campaign, won by Briton Ben Southall who was paid to become caretaker on a picture-perfect island on the Great Barrier Reef for six months. In the latest incarnation, the jobs were open to travellers aged between 18 and 30, designed to promote tourism opportunities offered by Australian working holiday visas. Thousands of Australians also entered, but none were among the finalists who also came from Hong Kong, Scotland, Taiwan, Afghanistan, Belgium and Germany.

Tourism Australia managing director Andrew McEvoy said the campaign was already delivering results, with airlines and travel agencies reporting increased bookings and officials seeing a significant spike in interest in the working holiday program which last year contributed A$2.5 billion (US$2.3 billion) to the economy. Hopefuls had to upload a 30-second video explaining why they were best for the job, with Irishman Allan Dixon who will journey through the Outback, be immersed in indigenous culture and get up close with Australian wildlife for his job, using social media to enlist the support of sprinter Usain Bolt, adventurer Bear Grylls, TV host Conan OBrien and actor Hugh Jackman for his bid. The finalists spent the past week in Australia as part of their assessment for the positions and Frenchwoman Detrez, 28, who is from Les Molunes, liked what she saw. Everything was so, so gorgeous landing in the middle of the rainforest was a great experience diving in the Great Barrier Reef was something really special too, she said. Funster Andrew Smith, 25, admitted his Sydney job title was a little ambiguous but he was looking forward to travelling the state as a social media commentator and getting involved in festivals and events, such as Sydney Harbours New Years Eve fireworks. In my opinion Chief Funster is somebody who goes and discovers the passion behind what people do, he said. They always have a story and they always have a reason. If you can find that reason, youre going to be able to discover why they love what they do, and thats the reason something is fun. He joked that the job came at a perfect time, given he was unemployed and homeless after finishing a stint making a travel television show in Dubai, in which he went to 13 different countries. My last job was pretty crazy too but I think this is going to be even better, he said. AFP

Tel: 255 287~9, Fax: 255 290

Thai Airways (TG)

Tel : 255491~6, Fax : 255223

Dragonair (KA)

Vietnam Airlines (VN) Qatar Airways (Temporary Office)

Tel: 95-1-255320, 255321, Fax : 255329

Fax : 255086. Tel 255066/ 255088/ 255068.

YANGON TO HONG KONG Day Flight Dep Arr MON KA 251 1:10 6:00 TUE KA 251 1:10 6:00 THUR KA 251 1:10 6:00 SAT KA 251 1:10 6:00 Day MON WED SAT Day TUE FRI SAT SUN YANGON TO TOKYO Flight Dep Arr NH 914 21:30 06:40+1 NH 914 21:30 06:40+1 NH 914 21:30 06:40+1 MANDALAY TO BANGKOK Flight Dep Arr TG 782 9:30 11:55 TG 782 9:30 11:55 TG 782 9:30 11:55 TG 782 9:30 11:55

Tel: 01-250388, (ext: 8142, 8210)

International
FD & AK = Air Asia TG = Thai Airways 8M = Myanmar Airways International Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines PG = Bangkok Airways MI = Silk Air VN = Vietnam Airline MH = Malaysia Airlines CZ = China Southern CI = China Airlines CA = Air China KA = Dragonair Y5 = Golden Myanmar Airlines IC = Indian Airlines Limited W9 = Air Bagan 3K = Jet Star AI = Air India QR = Qatar Airways KE = Korea Airlines NH = All Nippon Airways SQ = Singapore Airways DE = Condor Airlines MU=China Eastern Airlines BR = Eva Airlines DE = Condor

MANDALAY TO DON MUENG Day Flight Dep Arr MON FD 2761 12:45 15:00 TUE FD 2761 12:45 15:00 WED FD 2761 12:45 15:00 THUR FD 2761 12:45 15:00 FRI FD 2761 12:45 15:00 SAT FD 2761 12:45 15:00 SUN FD 2761 12:45 15:00

Subject to change without notice

Andrew Smith from the United States, the winner of the New South Wales Chief Funster job in Tourism Australias Best Jobs in the World competition, jumps on the steps of the Art Gallery of NSW in Sydney on June 21. Photo: Greg Wood

54 the pulse

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

The new expats burden in Myanmar

CRAIG L HODGES craiglesliehodges@gmail.com MANY foreigners are here to ease burdens. They enter the Myanmar maw with exceptional degrees and contracts with inspired organisations. They are solid and resolved. They know what they are here for. For others the equation behind the motivation is unclear, since great need and great uncertainty blend together to present opportunity in Myanmar. They are the ones comfortable with risk. The outlook that something will come of their time in Myanmar is justification enough to be here. For the most part foreigners arrive with little knowledge and soon struggle to feel their way into Myanmars social, economic and political cultures. Soon, however, the guide books will stop making sense. Lofty reports of transformation and change will distort their firsthand experiences on the streets. A cognitive dissonance will kick in. Their first meetings will be cordial and polite, but reveal little of the enormity of the personal and professional tasks ahead. A few days in, the business analysts will begin digesting rubbery figures, patchy field research and reports written mostly from fly-in-fly-out consultants. Teachers will shake their heads at the dated curricular they have been asked to teach, and NGO workers will face mountains of grant applications for projects proposed long ago, but years away from delivering "capacity" and "sustainability". In the space of a week or two, the fortunate among these foreigners will migrate from their guesthouses and hotels. They will be delivered into small respectable apartments, assisted by a posse of brokers increasingly calculating in their recommendations. Head offices will baulk at the extortionate demands of upfront rent, then have their hands forced. I know, but we need to make this transaction today, the newcomer will repeat. The broker said three other expats are waiting in line to take it today. Its our only option. Learning the ropes, they will ask around expat circles for maids and cleaners at the "right price". And politely listening, they will one by one be told in a firm voice, that in no uncertain terms,

JUNE 24-30, 2013

WEEKLY PREDICTIONS
AQUARIUS | Jan 20 - Feb 18 Concentrate on strengthening your power to think abstractly and to formulate rules, theories and clear concepts from masses of observed facts. An understanding of emotional problems can help bring harmony and mutual understanding in your love life. An unexpected journey will be linked with a great event this week, which should be a source of satisfaction. PISCES | Feb 19 - March 2 You can overcome your natural reticence by using diplomatic usages to express a forthright meaning. Maintain your self-confidence in any action and persist in your habit of altruism and well-meaning action along your path in life. Romance and marriage continue to feature prominently. ARIES | Mar 21 - Apr 19 Promise nothing, and avoid undertakings with others, whether well known to you or not. Never lock up your feelings, but know that confronting challenges can reveal your emotions and avert over-reaction. Consider your reasons for any move to a different sphere before you attempt it. Forget your emotional problems and refresh your mind wisely. TAURUS | Apr 20 - May 20 Know that a true friend will never speak disparagingly about you, and focus your attention on underlying values. Always maintain a warm and friendly attitude toward others and show respect for every persons dignity. Learn how to mix business and friendship successfully and practise the golden rule with everyone, especially the daily associates with whom you work. GEMINI | May 21 - June 20 Remember that asking open-ended questions encourages people to say more than they intend to and gives you more information about what they want. Your mood will shift gradually into optimism and logical positivism, thanks to the constructive power of Jupiter. Your egocentric nature is apt to hinder communication. Love means accepting reasonable responsibility. CANCER | Jun 21 - Jul 20 You bring nothing with you into this life, and leave it with nothing. Only wisdom will help you to acquire assets in the time between. Wisdom permeates all things, time, space and matter, and the spiritual realm. Your relations with family members will sustain you as you plot your course through life. SCORPIO | Oct 23 - Nov 21 No one can escape from social problems because human beings are naturally sociable. Seek to create an atmosphere conducive to learning. Eschew prejudiced and cultivate the flexible spirit, being harmonious with others. You must have the courage to welcome criticism and not be afraid of it. LEO | Jul 23 - Aug 22 Adjust your attitude to take advantage of the potential for change for the better. Your emotional influence over others is wholesome, but negative energy is already generating contradictions: Be aware of the difference. The channels of social communication are getting clearer. Be prepared to take risks for personal promotion, success and in love affairs.

VIRGO | Aug 23 - Sep 22 Fine words and phrases can enhance the power of your language. But before acting, wait awhile, and let others move first. Dont let your body language give you away, but weigh information to help you judge the right course of action. Dismiss worry from your mind as a blockage to action.

LIBRA | Sep 23 - Oct 22 Learn to see things differently and take better care. Different styles of communication dont connect equally well for everybody. When your heart is firm and your conscience approves of your conduct, you may pursue your principles unto death. Know that people follow leaders of character, but love is your personal affair.

After a few short months the hidden burdens of their time in Myanmar will loom large. It will consume many and burn a few out.
Cheaper tunes online
MYANMAR music is going international and online. Music lovers everywhere will be able to download songs and albums with just a click of their fingers in July. U Ko Ko Lwin, managing director at Legacy Music Network, says the new website is aimed at Myanmar audiences who want instant access to their favourite Myanmar musicians, new and old. The CD music distribution system has totally been destroyed in Myanmar by piracy, U Ko Ko Lwin said. Online shopping is already developed overseas, and now its coming here. Some songs are owned by one person, and if they want to sell their album through our website, they can talk to us directly. The profits from buying and selling directly

as if they are at risk breaking ranks with a critical life support system, dont pay more than that. It will only encourage inflation. The conscientious will line up Myanmar teachers after hours and have a crack at learning the language. It will reassure them that their assimilation is on track. Needing to fit in, the words can I have a draught beer please? will often be the first phrase mastered, with another glass commonly the second. In time they will become adventurous and frequent local restaurants with teenage waiters, buy vegetables from farmers on the streets who have borrowed money to cross the Yangon River from Dalla and purchase cheap t-shirts and DVD movies contravening international trademark laws. In short, they will become an active part of a grey economy. Gathering in hotels owned by wealthy listed businessmen they will discuss cronyism and corruption whilst drinking spirits which have generated little if any tax for the government. They will catch taxis home late at night after haggling the driver down 500 kyat, perhaps denying him an extra plate of protein for dinner at the street stall. In the weeks ahead they will attend conferences organised by big corporations and NGOs to tackle local issues. For the most part the conferences will be held in English. The few questions from the floor will come from foreign journalists and a few talented Myanmar engaged for their cross-cultural skills. Most will play along and drop in the right

buzz words indicating they belong to a growing elite here to rescue Myanmar from itself. After a few short months the hidden burdens of their time in Myanmar will loom large. It will consume many and burn a few out. A strange carnival atmosphere of regular socialising and drinking will soothe dark moods and temporarily fill defeatist vacuums. Lone dialogues with taxi drivers will consol others that it is not easy in Myanmar. Many will fall asleep knowing that, it is still difficult in Myanmar. It will take time. A few will pack their bags and leave. The determined will struggle on, revelling in the obstacles, mastering the ups and downs of not quite fitting in, not quite meeting their original objectives. After a year or two, the long term expats wont see the beggars the same way. After a year or two, the cheeky young monks wont make them smile. After a year or two, the newest restaurant opening wont pull them in. To preserve they will withdraw and settle. They will come to accept the limits of it all. The hype wont bother them. The promise wont motivate them. They will have accepted their odd expat life, their awkward place in the chimera that is Myanmar today. ............................................................................. Craig Hodges is a Yangon-based bespoke consultant working in the tourism, event, media and human resource sectors with Myanmar and international clients. In the last 20 years he has observed expat communities in six countries.

SAGITTARIUS | Nov 22 - Dec 21 You must be strong enough to know when you are weak, brave enough to encounter fear, proud and unbending in honest defeat, humble and gentle in victory. Learn how to serve genuinely. Do not do everything that you desire to do and do not tell all you know. Love is the natural course of things, in which you can expect happiness.

from artist to consumer are distributed, generally between the artist and the producer. U Ko Ko Lwin said audiences can buy an entire album or just one song. But customers wanting to select songs have to buy at least six tracks from different albums. We have to pay transition fees, which are the same whether you buy the whole album or just one track, he explains. We set the price as low as we can, and its cheaper than a CD store. Would-be customers should register with the website and pay through Myan Pay and Y Pay account for the domestic online payment system. Customers overseas can use PayPal. To register, visit www.myanmarmusicstore. com. Lwin Mar Htun

Global art for children

MALAYSIAs international art school will open the Global Art Foundation in Yangon on July 2. The administrator of Global Art Myanmar says its an art school tailored with programs for children. The course duration is at least three months and the curriculum will test the childs ability at an international performance level. Weekday programs will run Monday, Wednesday and Friday between 1pm and 8pm, with weekend courses running between 8am and 8pm. The Global Art International School is based in Malaysia and has franchises in more than 19 countries and 550 branches worldwide. Ei Ei Thu

CAPRICORN | Dec 22 - Jan 19 Life is a unique experience within a space of time without guarantees. Ponder how you can read yourself, and how you can reveal your mind effectively to the world; it is your personal duty to prove your value. You will find nothing in pettiness or minor matters indifferent to your emotional outlook. You should plant a tree for the world.

AUNG MYIN KYAW 4th Floor, 113, Thamain Bayan Road, Tarmwe Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 09-731-35632 Email: williameaste@gmail.com

The Essentials
EMBASSIES Australia 88, Strand Road, Yangon. Tel : 251810, 251797, 251798, 251809, 246462, 246463, fax: 246159 Bangladesh 11-B, Than Lwin Road, Yangon. Tel: 515275, 526144, fax: 515273, email: bdootygn@mptmail.net. mm Brazil 56, Pyay Road, 6th mile, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 507225, 507251, 507482. fax: 507483. email: Administ.yangon@ itamaraty.gov.br. Brunei 17, Kanbawza Avenue, Golden Velly (1), Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 566985, 503978, fax: 512854 email: bruneiemb@ bruneiemb. com.mm Cambodia 25 (3B/4B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 549609, 540964, fax: 541462, email: RECYANGON @mptmail. net.mm China 1, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 221280, 221281, 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 Rd, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 512642, 510205 South Korea 97 University Avenue, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 527142-4, 515190, fax: 513286, email: myanmar@mofat.go.kr Lao A-1, Diplomatic Quarters, Tawwin Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 222482, fax: 227446, email: Laoembcab@ mptmail. net.mm Malaysia 82, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. Tel: 220248, 220249, 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. 943-Yangon. Tel: 515282, 515283, fax: 504274, email: serbemb@ yangon.net.mm Singapore 238, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 559001, email: singemb_ ygn@_ sgmfa. gov.sg Sri Lanka 34 Taw Win Road, Yangon. Tel: 222812, fax: 221509, email: slembassy. yangon@gmail.com The Embassy of Switzerland No 11, Kabaung Lane, 5 mile, Pyay Rd, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 534754, 512873, 507089. Fax: 534754, Ext: 110 Thailand 94 Pyay Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 226721, 226728, 226824 United Kingdom 80 Strand Rd, Yangon. Tel: 370867, 380322, 371852, 371853, 256438, fax: 370866 United States of America 110, University Avenue, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 536509, 535756, 538038, fax: 650306 Vietnam Bldg-72, Thanlwin Rd, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 511305 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 1-A, Kanbae (Thitsar Rd), Yankin Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 01-556538, 556539 Fax : 01-566582 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 Tsp. Ph: 225258. FAO Myanma Agriculture Service Insein Rd, Insein. tel: 641672, 641673. fax: 641561.

General Listing
ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS
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 PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 250388. fax: 252478. email: enquiry.prygn@ parkroyalhotels.com parkroyalhotels. com. Golden Hill Towers 24-26, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 558556. ghtower@ mptmail.net.mm. Marina Residence 8, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 6506 51~4. fax: 650630. MiCasa Hotel Apartments 17, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp. tel: 650933. fax: 650960. Sakura Residence 9, Inya Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 525001. fax: 525002. The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residence 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp. tel 951-256355 (25 lines).

YANGON No. 277, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Corner of 38th Street, Kyauktada Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 391070, 391071. Reservation@391070 (Ext) 1910, 106. Fax : (951) 391375. Email : hotelasiaplaza@gmail.com Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe. tel: 544500. fax: 544400.

Asia Plaza Hotel

ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS (Nay Pyi Taw)

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

Royal White Elephant Hotel No-11, Kan Street, Hlaing Tsp. Yangon, Myanmar. (+95-1) 500822, 503986. www.rwehotel.com MGM Hotel No (160), Warden Street, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. +95-1-212454~9. www. hotel-mgm.com Savoy Hotel 129, Damazedi Rd, Kamayut tsp. tel: 526289, 526298, Sweet Hotel 73, Damazedi Road, San Chaung Tsp, Ph: 539152 Sedona Hotel Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin. tel: 666900. Strand Hotel 92 Strand Rd. tel: 243377. fax: 289880. Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. Thamada Hotel 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon. Tel: 243639, 243640. Traders Hotel 223 Sule Pagoda Rd. tel: 242828. fax: 242838. Winner Inn 42, Than Lwin Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 503734, 524387. email: reservation@winner innmyanmar.com Yuzana Hotel 130, Shwegondaing Rd, Bahan Tsp, tel : 01-549600, 543367 Yuzana Garden Hotel 44, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp, tel : 01-248944

Reservation Office (Yangon) No-123, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Dagon Tsp Tel : 01-255-819~838 Hotel Ayeyarwady (National Landmark, Zeyar Thiri Tsp, Nay Pyi Taw) Tel : 067-421-903, 09-4920-5016 E-Mail : reservation@ maxhotelsgroup.com

(Nay Pyi Taw)

No. (356/366), Kyaikkasan Rd, Tamwe Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Ph: 542826, Fax: 545650 Email: reservation@ edenpalacehotel.com

Reservation Office (Yangon) 123, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Dagon Township Tel : 951- 255 819~838 Royal Kumudra Hotel, (Nay Pyi Taw) Tel : 067- 414 177, 067- 4141 88 E-Mail: reservation@ maxhotelsgroup.com

AIR CONDITION
Chigo 216, 38 St (Upper), Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 373472

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.

M-22, Shwe Htee Housing, Thamine Station St., Near the Bayint Naung Point, Mayangone Tsp., Yangon Tel : 522763, 522744, 652174, 667557, 665183, 664955 Fax : (95-1) 652174 E-mail : grandpalace@ myanmar.com.mm Website : www.grandpalace hotelyangon.com

No. 12, Pho Sein Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon Tel : (95-1) 209299, 209300, 209343, 209345, 209346 Fax : (95-1) 209344 E-mail : greenhill@ myanmar.com.mm Website : www.greenhill hotelyangon.com Hotel Yangon 91/93, 8th Mile Junction, Mayangone. Tel : 01-667708, 667688. Inya Lake Resort Hotel 37 Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 662866. fax: 665537.

ACCOMMODATION LONG TERM

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) 502016-18, Mandalay- Tel: 02-60933. Nay Pyi Taw- Tel: 067-420778, E-mail : sales.ac@freshaircon. com. URL: http://www. freshaircon.com General 83-91, G-F, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 706223, 371906

HAPPY HOMES
REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Tel: 09-7349-4483, 09-4200-56994. E-mail: aahappyhomes@ gmail.com, http://www. happyhomesyangon.com

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

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

MYANMARBOOKCENTRE Nandawun Compound, No. 55, Baho Road, Corner of Baho Road and Ahlone Road, (near Eugenia Restaurant), Ahlone Township. tel: 212 409, 221 271. 214708 fax: 524580. email:info@ myanmarbook.com

EDUCATION CENTRE
MHR 905, 9th floor, Modern Iron Market(Thanzay Condo) Lanmadaw St. Tel: 707822. NLEC 82 Anawrahta Rd, Corner of 39 St, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 250225.

FASHION & TAILOR

GAS COOKER & COOKER HOODS

24 hours Cancer centre No. (68), Tawwin Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 9 666141 Fax : (951) 9 666135

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

Aesthetic Medical Spa 5 (C), Race Course Condo, South Race Course Street, Tarmwe, Yangon. Mobile: 09-5202781 dr.face.aesthetic@gmail.com

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

LS Salon Junction Square, 3rd floor.

Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel 527242, ext 4001

CAFS

ELECTRICAL

Sein Shwe Tailor, No.797 (003-A), Bogyoke Aung San Road, Corner of Wardan Street, MAC Tower 2, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon, Ph: 01-225310, 212943~4 Ext: 146, 147, E-mail: uthetlwin@gmail.com

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.

La Brasserie (International) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel : 250388.

FITNESS CENTRE
Est. 1992 in Myanmar Electrical & Mechanical Contractors, Designers, Consultants. Tel: 09-504-2196, 09-73194828. E-mail: gei.ygn2@ gmail.com, glover2812@ gmail.com Traders Health Club. Level 5, Traders Hotel Yangon#223 Sule Pagoda Rd,Tel:951242828Ext:6561

GEMS & JEWELLERIES

Diamond Queen 75, Oo Yin Lane, New University Avenue Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel :01-548001, 704398 Diamond & Me Junction Square, Ground Floor, Kamayut Tsp. Tel :01-527242, (Ext : 1082)

La Source Beauty Spa Lobby Bar PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388.
~80(A), Inya Rd,

COFFEE MACHINE

Kamayut Tsp, tel: 512 380, 511 252. www.lasourcebeautyspa.com

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

Lemon Day Spa No. 96 F, Inya Road, Kamaryut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 514848, 09-732-08476. E.mail: lemondayspa.2011 @gmail.com

illy, Francis Francis, VBM, Brasilia, Rossi, De Longhi Nwe Ta Pin Trading Co., Ltd. Shop C, Building 459 B New University Avenue 01- 555-879, 09-4210-81705 nwetapintrading@gmail.com

ENGINEERING

CONSTRUCTION

Balance Fitnesss No 64 (G), Kyitewine Pagoda Road, Mayangone Township. Yangon 01-656916, 09 8631392 Email - info@ balancefitnessyangon.com

24 Hour International Medical Centre @ Victoria Hospital No. 68, Tawwin Rd, 9 Mile, Mayangon Township, Yangon, Myanmar Tel: + 951 651 238, + 959 495 85 955 Fax: + 959 651 398 24/7 on duty doctor: + 959 492 18 410 Website: www.leo.com.mm One Stop Solution for Quality Health Care Piyavate Hospital (Bangkok) Grand Mee Yahta Executive Residences. No.372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan. Tel: 256355, Ext: 3206. Hotline: 09-7377-7799. PHIH-Specialist Clinic FMI Centre (4th Floor) #380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Tsp. tel: 243 010, 243 012, 243 013 Vibhavadi Hospital 214. 1st Floor-Right, Waizayanter Road, Thingangyun Tsp, Yangon. Email: vibhavadimyanmar @gmail.com, Tel: 09-2011772, 09-731-650-45.

ADVERTISING
WE STARTED THE ADVERTISING INDUSTRY IN MYANMAR SINCE 1991

BOOK STORES
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 193/197, Shu Khin Thar Street, North Okkalapa Industrial Zone, Yangon. Tel: 951-691843~5, 9519690297, Fax: 951-691700 Email: supermega97@ gmail.com. www. supermega-engg.com

M A R K E T I N G & C O M M U N I C AT I O N S

A D V E R T I S I N G

SAIL Marketing & Communications Suite 403, Danathiha Center 790, Corner of Bogyoke Rd & Wadan Rd, Lanmadaw Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 211870, 224820, 2301195. Email: admin@ advertising-myanmar.com www.advertising-myanmar. com

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

Life Fitness Bldg A1, Rm No. 001, Shwekabar Housing, Mindhamma Rd, Ph: 01-656511, Fax: 01-656522, Hot line: 0973194684, Email: natraysports@ gmail.com

sales@manawmaya.com.mm www.manawmayagems.com

Ruby & Rare Gems of Myanamar No. 527, New University Ave., Bahan Tsp. Yangon.

Tel: 549612, Fax : 545770.

CO WORKING SPACE

ENTERTAINMENT
No. (6), Lane 2 Botahtaung Pagoda St, Yangon. 01-9010003, 291897. info@venturaoffice.com, www.venturaoffice.com 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. Natural Gems of Myanmar No. 30 (A), Pyay Road (7 mile), Mayangone Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 01-660397, 654398~9. E-mail: spgems.myanmar @gmail.com

HOME FURNISHING

BEAUTY & MASSAGE

Marina Residence, Yangon Ph: 650651~4, Ext: 109 Beauty Plan, Corner of 77th St & 31st St, Mandalay Ph: 02 72506

150 Dhamazedi Rd., Bahan T/S, Yangon. Tel: 536306, 537805. Room 308, 3rd Flr., Junction Center (Maw Tin), Lanmadaw T/S, Yangon. Tel: 218155, Ext. 1308. 15(B), Departure Lounge, Yangon Intl Airport. 45B, Corner of 26th & 68th Sts., Mandalay. Tel: (02) 66197. Email: yangon@monumentbooks.com

CONSULTING

Dance Club & Bar No.94, Ground Floor, Bogalay Zay Street, Botataung Tsp, Yangon.Tel: 392625, 09-500-3591 Email : danceclub. hola@gmail.com
(Except Sunday)

22, Pyay Rd, 9 mile, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 660769, 664363. Franzo Living Mall 15 (A/5), Pyay Rd, A-1, 9 Miles, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 664026

GENERATORS

FLORAL SERVICES

Myanmar Research | Consulting | Technology

Shwe Hinthar B 307, 6 1/2 Miles, Pyay Rd., Yangon. Tel: +95 (0)1 654 730 info@thuraswiss.com www.thuraswiss.com

The Uranium Dance Studio Pearl condo Bldg (C), 2nd flr, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 09731-42624, 09-514-0404.

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

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

Bldg-D, Rm (G-12), Pearl Condo, Ground Flr, Kabaraye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 557448. Ext 814, 09-730-98872.

HEALTH SERVICES S.B. FURNITURE

S.B. FURNITURE

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. 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.

98(A), Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 553783, 549152, 09-732-16940, 09-730-56079. Fax: 542979 Email: asiapacific. myanmar@gmail.com.

No-001-002, Dagon Tower, Ground Flr, Cor of Kabaraye Pagoda Rd & Shwe Gon Dine Rd, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 544480, 09-730-98872.

FOAM SPRAY INSULATION

Acupuncture, Medicine Massage, Foot Spa Add:No,27(A),Ywa Ma Kyaung Street, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 01-511122, 526765.

European Quality & Designs Furniture Suitable for Outdoor or Indoor Use No. 422 - 426, FJVC Centre, Ground Floor, Room No. 4, Strand Road (Corner of Botahtaung Pagoda Road), Botahtaung Township, Yangon 11161, Myanmar. Tel: 01 202063, 01 202064 H.P: 09 509 1673 Fax: 01 202063 E-mail: contact@ smartdesignstrading.com Website: www. wovenfurnituredesigns.com

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.

24 hours Laboratory & X-ray No. (68), Tawwin Street, 9 Mile, Mayangone Township, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : (951) 9 666141 Fax : (951) 9 666135

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

JUNE 24 - 30, 2013 THE MYANMAR TIMES

WATER TANK

MARINE COMMUNICATION & NAVIGATION

TOP MARINE PAINT No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 09-851-5202 Crown Worldwide Movers Ltd 790, Rm 702, 7th Flr Danathiha Centre, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Lanmadaw. Tel: 223288, 210 670, 227650. ext: 702. Fax: 229212. email: crown worldwide@mptmail.net.mm No. 5, U Tun Nyein Street, Mayangone T/S, Yangon. Tel : 01-660 612, 011 22 1014, 09 50 89 441 Email : zhinyalake@ gmail.com

SERVICE OFFICE

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

PLEASURE CRUISES

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

No. (6), Lane 2 Botahtaung Pagoda St, Yangon. 01-9010003, 291897. info@venturaoffice.com, www.venturaoffice.com

PE WATER TANK

Tel : 01-684734, 685823, 09-7307-6589, 4500-48469. theone@yangon.net.mm

SUPERMARKETS
Capital Hyper Mart 14(E), Min Nandar Road, Dawbon Tsp. Ph: 553136. City Mart (Aung San Branch) tel: 253022, 294765. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (47th St Branch) tel: 200026, 298746. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Junction 8 Branch) tel: 650778. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (FMI City Branch) tel: 682323. City Mart (Yankin Center Branch) tel: 400284. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Myaynigone Branch) tel: 510697. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Zawana Branch) tel:564532. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Shwe Mya Yar) tel: 294063. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Chinatown Point) tel: 215560~63. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Junction Maw Tin) tel: 218159. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Marketplace) tel: 523840~43. City Mart (78th Brahch-Mandalay) tel: 02-71467~9. IKON Mart No.332, Pyay Rd, San Chaung. Tel: 535-783, 527705, 501429. Email: sales-ikon@ myanmar.com.mm Junction Mawtin Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Cor of Wadan St. Lanmadaw. Ocean Supercentre (North Point ), 9th Mile. Tel: 651 200, 652963.

WATER TREATMENT

Media & Advertising

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.

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: info@islandsafari mergui.com. Website: www. islandsafarimergui.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.

Enchanting and Romantic, a Bliss on the Lake 62 D, U Tun Nyein Road, Mayangon Tsp, Yangon Tel. 01 665 516, 660976 Mob. 09-4210-34875 operayangon@gmail.com www.operayangon.com

No. 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan T/S, Yangon. Tel : 01-380 398, 01-256 355 (Ext : 3027) Email : zawgyihouse@ myanmar.com.mm

Commercial scale water treatment (Since 1997) Tel: 01-218437~38. H/P: 09-5161431, 09-43126571. 39-B, Thazin Lane, Ahlone.

WATER HEATERS

SCHOOLS

OFFICE FURNITURE

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

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

RESTAURANTS

Monsoon Restaurant & Bar 85/87, Thein Byu Road, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 295224, 09-501 5653. Summer Palace (Chinese) Restaurant Level 2, Traders Hotel, #223, Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242828. ext:6483

Horizon Intl School 25, Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, tel : 541085, 551795, 551796, 450396~7. fax : 543926, email : contact@horizonmyanmar. com, www.horizon.com

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

REAL ESTATE

Lunch/Dinner/Catering 555539, 536174

Same as Rinnai Gas cooker and cooker Hood Showroom Address

Water Heater

Open Daily (9am to 6pm) No. 797, MAC Tower II, Rm -4, Ground Flr, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Lamadaw Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (951) 212944 Ext: 303 sales.centuremyanmar@ gmail.com www.centure.in.th

FREE House-Hunting Service with English Speaking Expert. Tel : 09 2050107 robinsawnaing@gmail.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.

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

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

WEB SERVICES

Win
Bld-A2, Gr-Fl, Shwe Gabar Housing, Mindama Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. email: eko-nr@ myanmar.com.mm Ph: 652391, 09-73108896 Real Estate Agency Our Services - Office, House & Land (For Rent) (Agent Fees Free) Tel: 09-5018250, 73202480. realwin2012@gmail.com

REMOVALISTS

Heaven Pizza 38/40, Bo Yar Nyunt St. Yaw Min Gyi Quarter, Dagon Township. Tel: 09-855-1383

The Emporia Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp. Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6294 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

INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI MYANMAR (Pre-K, Primary) 55 (B) Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon, Tel: 01-546097, 546761. imm.myn@gmail.com

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.

Bld-A2, Gr-Fl, Shwe Gabar Housing, Mindama Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. email: eko-nr@ myanmar.com.mm Ph: 652391, 09-73108896

Relocation Specialist Rm 504, M.M.G Tower, #44/56, Kannar Rd, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 250290, 252313. Mail : info@asiantigersmyanmar.com

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

PAINT
Worlds No.1 Paints & Coatings Company Legendary Myanmar Intl Shipping & Logistics Co., Ltd. No-9, Rm (A-4), 3rd Flr, Kyaung St, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 516827, 523653, 516795. Mobile. 09-512-3049. Email: legandarymyr@ mptmail.net .mm www.LMSL-shipping.com World famous Kobe Beef Near Thuka Kabar Hospital on Pyay Rd, Marlar st, Hlaing Tsp. Tel: +95-1-535072

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

TRAVEL AGENTS

Asian Trails Tour Ltd 73 Pyay Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 211212, 223262. fax: 211670. email: res@ asiantrails.com.mm Shan Yoma Tours Co.,Ltd www.exploremyanmar.com

Custom web design and development. Scalable, optimized sites and responsive design for mobile web. Facebook apps, ads and design. Hosting and domains. Myanmars 1st socially and eco responsible IT company. Get in touch: sales@mspiral.com and 09 7316 2122. www.mspiral.com

VISA & IMMIGRATION

Sole Distributor For the Union of Myanmar Since 1995 Myanmar Golden Rock International Co.,Ltd. #06-01, Bldg (8), Myanmar ICT Park, University Hlaing Campus, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 654810~17.

22, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel 541997. email: leplanteur@ mptmail.net.mm. http://leplanteur.net

1. WASABI:No.20-B, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp,(Near MiCasa), Tel; 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) JunctionMawtin(CityMart)

No.35(b), Tatkatho Yeik Mon Housing, New University Avenue, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 951-549451, 557219, 540730. www.yangon-academy.org

Car Rental with English Speaking Driver. (Safety and Professional Services). Tel : +95 9 2050107 robinsawnaing@gmail.com

Check Eligibility Business Visa And Tourist Visa No need to come to Myanmar Embassy travel.evisa@gmail.com

HOW TO GET A FREE AD

FREE
General
Computer
Call for Teacher Caroline, Teacher Chaw Chaw

BY FAX : 01-254158 BY EMAIL : classified@myanmartimes.com.mm, advertising@myanmartimes.com.mm BY MAIL : 379/383, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Kyauktada Township, Yangon.

HOW TO GET MORE BUSINESS FROM AS LITTLE AS K.5,000.

BUY SPACE ON THESE PAGES CALL: Khin Mon Mon Yi - 01-392676, 392928

Property
Cartridge (Kid Icarus: Uprising) - 20000 Kyats. Ph: 095079980" DIGITAL PHOTO Printer (Noritsu QSS 2301 + Green EOP Digital Carrier) (Show Error message : Y Filter, C Filter) Price : 7000000/ Lakh. ( can negotiate) Ph : 09-731-30288 IPHONE3gs32GB(White) Excellent condition 130000, Huawei G510 Black (U8951) With full accessories Price: 95000 Ph : 09-730-48106 4 days 180000 kyats for one person. BaganPopa (July 18) hotels +Transportation+ breakfast, lunch, Dinner Package Trip for 2 night 3 days 160000 kyats for one person. Chaungtha Beach HotelMax,Belle Resort + Transportation +breakfast, lunch, Dinner 65000 kyats for one person. (1 night) 120000 kyats for 1 person (2 night) Ph: 09-500-59037, 09-31294519 ASIANA AIRLINES Promotion : Yangon to Seoul(ICN) Round -Trip $ 765 (1 year validity, additional 10 kg Baggage, etc). Remark : Applicable on May & June. Flight Schdules :Yangon - Incheon OZ7463 00:50/08:50 Every Thursday & Sunday. Incheon Yangon OZ7453 19:30/23:40 Every Wednesday, Saturday. Myankor Travel Service Co., Ltd. Representative : U Thura Tun. Ph: 01-9669509. 09-73087827. M&S Car Rental Service 146, L(2) Shwe Hnin Si St, Ward (5), 8(1/2) Mile, Mayangone, Yangon. Ph: 09-501-4287. Email: mnscarrentalservice@ gmail.com.

(HD {Game,app} install iPhone, iPod touch 6000ks, iPad 8000ks) iOS upgrade,All iDevices iOS 6.1 full jailbreak coming up, ( iTunes US account open- HD game, app download) Gmail account open, contact :09-514-7480 COMPUTER Home special basic computer Knowledge & Using, Graphic Design & Other Applications Courses. Call us on 09-450059037 ONLINE PC SERVICE : IT Projects. For more details; please visit https://www.facebook. com/LynnTechno

Expert Services
REAL ESTATE Service : Buying, Selling, Leasing, All types of properties. Condominum, Apart ment, Land, House, Shop, Warehouse & ... Ph: 09-541-8864, 09501-1884. IF YOU WANT to change from International Driving Licence to Myanmar Driving Licence.Our Services can do. Pls, Answer the following data & mail me for your application. I type the forms & continue, Name, passpost No, Myanmar immigration admitted date, date of expire, date of birth and place, blood type, driving licence No, date of expire, issue date, issue country, licence class, present address, your rank & duty in Myanmar Office, Company or Orginazation, your apply officer name, rank & duty. Ph : 09-730-08426 email: kaungthetservices@ gmail.com. TRANSLATION Service : English, Myanmar , Japanese, Chinese, Inian movies, script letters, books. Pls do contact at Ph : 552317 C/O for Teacher Caroline : 152 first flr Aungmingalar St, Kyaukmyaung Yangon. AUGUST Engineering Service : (Aircondition & Electrical) Installation,Repairing & Maintenance. Ph: 09731-10321, 09-420007180. Email: aes. august@gmail.com

Education
TEACHERS who have got Teaching experience in Singapore,Intl School (primary & seconday levels) AEIS, PSLE, GCSE, SAT, IELTS, TOEFL, EnglishMyamar Speaking Class Sayar Bryan, (ME) : 094200-7 0692, Saya Htet (MBA); 09-215-0075, Sayar Min Aung(ME) : 09-4928-0490. TEACHER MYO (G.C.E in London) : Grade 10. 11 (all subjects), IELTS, Interview, IGCSE, BCA (all subjects). 37, 4th Flr, Yay Kyaw St, Pazundaung. Ph: 0973221317, 09-5132373. EDUCATION guide for yound learners : If you need to coach your children in school subjects for primary level English, Math,Science, History. Social, Geography, Myanmar You are welcome to contact time:7:00 to 8:00 pm time:morning 9:00 to 12 am Ph : 552317 C/O for Teacher Caroline :152 first flr Aungmingalar St, Kyaukmyaung Yangon SCHOLAR Teaching Organization founded with ME, BE & Master Degree holder with 12 years experience in teaching field.Role & Responsibility: Making the students develop problem solving skills, critical thinking skills & I.Q & E.Q enriching skills, Int'l School (ILBC, Total, MISY, ISY, PISM, Horizon, ISM, Network, CISM, MIS, MLA, ES4E, DSY RV). All grades, All Subjects ..... Singapore MOE Exams (AEIS, S-AEIS, IGCSE, IELTS, TOFEL... Tr.Htet : 09-215-0075, 09-401600705) Tr.Bryan : 094200-70692. HOME Tuition & Guide: For Pre-KG, Primary and Secondary Level. Specialized in Maths & Biology Tr. Daw Khin Swe Win (B.E.H.S Thuwunna) Rtd. Ph: 09730-99679. FOR IGCSE ( Cambridge & Edexcel) & Secondary Students Regular tuition class, Home tuition class, Exam preparation intensive class. All subjects available. Call: Pyae Phyo Kyaw : 09508-8683 SPECIAL for Physics IGCSE courses Tr. Kaung Myat BE(PE). Ph:09-731-42020 kaungmyatoo251@ gmail.com EDUCATION for primary level English, Maths Science, Geography, History, English Language, Myanmar Language. Teacher Caroline. Ph: 552317

NEW IPAD 64GB + 4G Price : 460000 iPad Mini 32+ 4G 7 Month Warranty Price : 410000 iPad Mini 16GB + 4G 8 Month Warranty Price : 360000 iPad 2 64GB Wifi Price : 325000 Ph : 09312-88077 LENOVO G470 Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D 500GB Graphic 1GB Black Color Like New . Price : 450000 Ph : 09501-6694 NOT BRAND But Excellent Quality Samsung Galaxy Note1 Black 16GB GT-N7000 Version 4.1.2 With Box + Charger - 280000 Samsung Galaxy S2 GT-i9100 16GB (Black) - 200000 Samsung Galaxy S2 (White)GT19100 16GB With Box + Full Accessries Just Like New -220000 Ph: 09-730-48106 IPAD MINI 16GB Brand New - 300000 Ipad Mini 32GB (Used)- 350000 Ipad2 32GB -290000 Ipad2 32GB Wifi+3g - 330000 Ipad4 64GB - 550000 Ipad3 32GB (Used) 370000 Ipad3 64GB -400000 Ph: 09730-48106 CAR (New) : Mazda Demio 2007 model 1300 S, PW, AC, Navi,TV, DVD) Toyota

A COLLECTION of German & East European stamps to be given away free of charge. Call 09514-2568 NISSAN TIIDA Latio (Saloon) 2008, 15S, 1500 CC Beige Color, 29000 Km Original TV, Very Good Condition 2 Sa/---- Ph: 09-43032558, 09-4500-61125 ORIGINAL 3DS Game Cartridge (Spirit Camrea: The Cursed Memoir) 20000 Kyats. Original 3DS Game Cartridge (Kid Icarus: Uprising) - 20000 Kyats. Ph: 09507-9980" IPHONE 5 64GB Black Official Unlock with Original Box & Accessories. 6 Month Warranty. Price : 660000. Ph: 09-4500-39844 99% NEW SONY Xperia Ion With Original Box & Accessories (Black Color) Price : 230000. Ph : 09-501-6694 DELL VOSTRO 3550 Intel Core i5 Ram 4GB H.D.D 500GB Finger Print Keyboard LED Back Light. Price : 390000. Ph : 01-248076 HP PAVILION G4-2022tx Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D 500GB& Remote Control (1 year & 7 month warranty) Price : 460000. Ph : 01-248076

Rent/Sale
URGENT Sales/Rent, Dagon Port Industrial Area (1 Acre) Land, 30000Sqft (Garage + office Building), 2 Pulses Gravity Clean Machines, Rice Polishing Machine 1, 315 KVA Transformer, Fully Water & Electricity, Selling Price: Negotiable Renting-70 Lakhs. Ph: 01-249003, 09-420040787, 09-4200-92888, 09-4200-92777.

General
LINYAMA Quality Product Sales & Service Center : 219, Bosunpet St (Middle), Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 09502-0659, 09-420044877, 09-515-1154, 01-372647.

HousingforRent
MINDAMA CONDO , Building(B), Rm(901), Finely Decorated, Including Funiture. Contact No-09-450033364, 09-550-2649. BAHAN, New University Avenue Condo, 1350 sqft, 1 MB, 2 SB, Fully furniture, 8th Flr, 3 AC, Phone, Foreigner Welcome, 1,300,000 Kyats per month: 09432-00669. BAHAN, Shwe Gone Daing Tower Condo Convenient place, Own compound with car parking, Shwedagon Pagoda Panoramic view with 1350 Sqft, 1 MB, 3 SR, 24 Hr Lift, 3 A/C, Water Heater, Teak Parquet, Teak cabinet, Clean & good condition. Hot Price US$977!! Fully furniture start from US$1188. Ph:09-450002906 MAYANGONE, Taw Win Thiri Condo (9 Miles, near Ocean Super Center) 1550 sqft, 1 MB, 2 SB, Fully Furniture, 8th Flr, 3 AC, Phone, Foreigner Welcome. 1,300,000 Kyats per month at least 6 months contract . Ph : 09-4320-0669 (1) NEAR PEARL CONDO, Kokkine St, 3000 Sqft 2 RC, 3 bed room, fully furnish, 2134 USD(2) Near Hlaing Thar Yar Industry, 3500 Sqft 2 RC, 4 bed room, fully furnish. 2134 USD (3)Near Chatrium Hotel, 1575 Sqft, 2 RC, 3500 Sqft, 3 bed room. 2134 USD (4)Golden valley, 2 RC, 1500 Sqft , 3 bed room, fully furnish. Near French restaurant. 4500 USD (5)Golden valley, 2 RC, 1650 Sqft, 4 bed room, fully furnish,near City mart, 6500 USD. Ph : 09-4921 4276 LANMADAW, (25' x 50') 12 St, the whole 8 unit (Lift), For Hotel, Education. Ph: 09-5661037. ROOM 30' x 60' 1 MBR, 2 common rooms, fully furnished half layer with decorated 8 th flr W/O lift. on the Waizayantar Main Rd US$ 500 per month, foreigner only & no broker please. Ph: 09-516-7767, 09517-0481 PEARL CONDO (D), 15th Flr, 1500 sqft, Corner

Language
LANGUAGE Proficiency (A) Effective & Scientific way, (B) Intensive Class, (C) Interpreter - part time/ Full time (Under mentioned languages), (D) Hindi/ Myanmar/ English (Basic Advance for Embassy staff/ Foreigner/ A group single/ Kids + Teens/ NGO - INGO personal/ (Special rate for national peoples) by an Expert Tutor. (1) Home tuition available in groups of single. (2) Translation of English/ Hindi/ Sanskrit/ Bengali/ Nepali & Myanmar are also available. (3) Business Guide & Agency services. (4) Partner-ship business welcome. R.S. Verma. B.Sc., (Bot), Yangon. (UFL-English) Yangon. Email: rsverma. myanmar@gmail.com, Ph: 09-730-42604, Add: 125, 43rd St, 5th Flr (R), Botahtaung. MYANMAR : Within 24 hours can make you get confident in Myanmar language speaking & scripts. Teacher Phyu Phyu Khin: 09-49308926. Email:phyuporcupine@ gmail.com

Public Notices
I, AJAY ADVANI, S/o. Anand BashomalAdvani, resident of 50/1601, Seawoods Estates, Sector-54/56/58, Nerul, Navi Mumbai in India and 118, Tower 'E', Pearl Condominium, Bahan Township, Yangon in Myanmar, have changed my name to AJJAAY ADVANI for all purposes.

For Sale
DELL INSPIRON N4110 Intel Core i5 Ram 4GB H.D.D 500GB Graphic 2GB Red Color Like New Price : 400000. Ph : 09501-6694 IPAD MINI 32 Wifi+4G 7 Month Warranty. Price : 430000 iPad Mini 16GB+4G. 8 Month Warranty Price : 380000. iPad 2 64GB Wifi Price : 335000. Ph: 09-31288077 99% NEW NOKIA Lumia 820 With Original Box & Accessories 10 Month Warranty Card. Price : 240000. Ph : 09-31288077 LENOVO G470 Intel Core i5 Ram 8GB H.D.D 750GB Graphic 1GB Black Color Like New . Price : 450000 Ph : 09501-6694 IPAD 2 64GB Wifi Price : 335000 . Ph : 09-31288077 95% NEW SAMSUNG Galaxy Note White & Pink With Original Box & Accessories. Price : 300000. Ph : 09-450039844 MACBOOK Pro, Macbook Air, iMac, Any Laptop iPhone 5, 4S, 4, 3GS, 3G iPod 5, 4, iPad 4, 3, 2, Mini Wifi & Wifi+3G Samsung S2, S3, S4, Grand, Note 1, Note 2, Note 8.0, Any Samsung Tablet Sony Xperia Z, T TX, Ion, S, SL, Acro S, J, P, U, E, V, Sola HTC Butterfly, One, One X, One X Plus, XL, XE, Desire VC HUAWEI Ascend D2, P1, U9508, U8951D, U8950, U8812D, U8825D, Ph : 09-312- 88077 ASUS A42J Intel Core i7 Ram 4GB H.D.D 500GB Garaphic 2GB Price : 499000 PH : 01248076/ 09-312-88077

Want To Buy
WIMAX, McWill Ph : 245 415 WIMAX [ Bagan ], McWill Ph : 09-44-800-6520 WE PAY Cash for your Your Mobile Phone Handset Laptop Notebook Netbook Macbook and other electronic device We Buy Mobile Samsung Apple HTC LG Sony Nokia and other We buy With High Price if you want to sales. Pls contact : 09-517-8391 LOOKING for a hatstand. We want to buy a three-leg hat-stand of Bombay Burma. Please contact: 09-730-53353, 09-731-15256, 09-73115358, 09-731-18446. USED MACBOOK Pro, Macbook Air, iMac , Mac Mini Sony Vaio, Dell, HP, Asus, Lenovo, MSI, Acer, Toshiba , Sing Tech, Samsung, Intel Core i3, i5, i7, B970, B960 B940, DualCore Core 2 Duo Laptop Notebook Netbook. Ph: 09-730-48106

BELTA 2007 model 1300 Cc [G great, PS, PW, TV, Navi, SRS, ABS, Push Start, Smart Key Mileage : 15000 Km [Great 5] Nissan Vanette Truck [ 2006 Model] [PS, ABS, SRS [Diesel Turbo 2000 Cc ] [1 Ton] Ph : 09-49275744 DIGITAL PHOTO Printer (Noritsu QSS 2301 + Green EOP Digital Carrier),(Show Error message : Y Filter, C Filter), Price : 7000000/ Lakh. (can negotiate). Ph : 09-731-30288 MAC BOOK AIR NEW Warrenty, OSX Version 10.8.4 SoftwareUpdate Pro:1.7GHz Intel Core i 5,Memory 4CB1600Mhz DDR3. Start up Disk LARS HD = price 8 Lkh kyat. Pls contact ph: 9661291, 09512-0081

DESKTOP (1) No : Monitor - View Sonic LED Montior (18") Processor - Intel(R) Pentium(R) CPU G640 Memory - 2048MB RAM Others - Prolink Mouse / Keyboard / UPS + Mouse Pad + A4Tech Speakers + Computer Table Total Price : 320000 kyats (2 years Warranty). Ph: 09732-15521 98% GOOD IMAC with full box with Warranty Card : Specification: Quad Core Intel Core I5 4GB DDR3 Ram 500GB HDD. 21" Display AMD Radeon HD 6750M 512 MB Super Drive, Wife, Bluetooth. Price 900,000 Ks. Ph: 09-505-4489, 389709. ORIGINAL 3DS Game Cartridge (Spirit Camrea: The Cursed Memoir) - 20000 Kyats. Original 3DS Game

Rm, Fully furnished, 4 Air-con, 2BR, 1MBR, Suitable for foreigner, reasonable price, 1'350 US$ per month. contact no: Burmese: 09-5111032; English: 09-5152532 (1)NEAR AUNG SAN CITY MART, condo 1500 Sqft, 2 MBR, 1SR, US$ 2222 (2)Hledan, Diamond condo, 1200 Sqft, 2 bed room,US$ 1111 (3) New University avenue condo, 2300 Sqft, 3 bed room. US$ 2500(4)Chaung Tar condo, with swimming pool. 2000 Sqft, 2 bed room, fully furnish, US$ 2777 (5)Strand Rd, near Strand Hotel, condo 2300 Sqft, 3 bed room, US$ 2134 (6)9 Mile, U Mg Mg Soe St, 4200 Sqft 2 RC, 4 bed room, US$ 2134. Ph: , 09- 4211 77 105. (1) PANSODAN ST condo, near Ruby Mart, 1250 Sqft .2 bed room, fully furnish.US$ 1667 (2) Bo Myat Tun St condo, good place.1500Sqft, 2 bed room, fully furnish US$ 2000 (3)Shwe gon dine St condo, good place 1200 Sqft, 1 MBR, fully furnish US$ 900 .(4) Near Taw win shopping mall condo, 1500 Sqft, 2 MBR, US$1667 (5) Near Park Royal hotel, Bo yar nyunt condo,1200 Sqft, 1MBR,1SR.US$1111. Ph: 09-4921 4276 BAHAN , University Avenue, compound 85 by 120, 3 MB, 1 reading room, living room, dinning room, kitchen, servant quarter, BBQ house in the garden, ph, 3AC . $ 5000. Contact info - 09-513-7802, 01534542 MAYANGONE, Kabaaye Gamonepwint Condo, 1850 sqft, 1 MBR, 2BR, 4 AC, Fully furniture, 4 Flr, Lift, Car parking, internet line. Teak Parquet, Teak cabinet, Cold/Hot water, Ph: 09-519-9565(English), 09-510-2285. Pls contact directly, No broker.

HousingforSale
LAND : We have Lands for sale suitable for making Industrial buildings in large area. Buyers can contact us on 09-450059037. (There is no pay for Agents & Third party ... Warmly welcome the buyers) MAYANGONE, 9 Mile, Bonyarna Lane (50'x 70'x 65') garden with including house (3700 Lakhs) no agent please. Owner Ph: 09-5036519) MINGARDON Garden, Kantkaw Yeik Tha.100' x 100' x 4 pics (closed with beside and back side) Price: Kyats 2,475 lakh/100 ' x 100 ' x 1 pics. (can negotiate) contact person & ph : 09-73152 32 7.

Travel
NYAN MYINT THU Car Rental Service : Ko Nyan Myint Win Kyi (MD) - No 56, Bo Ywe St, Latha Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Ph : (+95)01246551, 01-375284. Hp:(+95)09-2132778. il:nyanmyintthu1983@ gmail.com, nmt@ nyanmyintthucarrental. com, colwinkyi@ gmail.com. Web:www. nyanmyintthucarrental. com NATTHMEE Classical T r a v e l s : Ta u n g g y i Inly-Kalaw-Pindaya ( July 18) hotels + Transportation + breakfast, lunch, Dinner Package Trip for 3 night

FREE
Employment
UN Positions
WFP Myanmar is seeking : Programme Assistant GS-5 1 post at Laokai : 1 Year (Extendable) (VAM) Reference no. VA13/024 : Minimum secondary school education, preferably supplemented by courses in a field related to sociology, economics, agriculture, geography, nutrition, rural development and or similar relevant field. 4 years of progressively responsible support or secretarial work experience including at least two years in the field of food security, vulnerability analysis or other related field. 1 year at G4 level or equivalent. Experience assisting in survey design & implementation an added bonus.Know ledge of Computer word/data processing software (Word, Excel). Knowledge of specialized software; for statistical analysis (such as SPSS, Stata, MS Access, dbase, etc).Fluency in English and Myanmar. Pls send applications with UN P-11 form to HR Unit, World Food Programme, 3rd Flr, Inya Lake Hotel, 37 Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Yangon, Myanmar, P.O. Box 650(or) email to Myanmar.vacancy@ wfp.org COB 26th, June 2013. IOM Int'l Organization for Migration is seeking (1) Assistant Project Manager Medical Services & Social Mobilization in Myawaddy , Kayin State: Advanced university degree in Nursing, Public Health or Medicine (must have a valid license to practice). Strong programme management skills are necessary, demon strated by 5 years experience management health related projects for int'l organizations or INGO. (2) Laboratory Manager in Mawlamyine, Mon State. Laboratory technician (Grade I). For 1 & 2 : Computer literacy, Good in English & Myanmar (fluency in Kayin and/or Mon would be an advantage). (3) Mobile Clinic Team Leader (Malaria) in Mawlamyine, Mon State. Advanced university degree in Nursing, Public Health or Medicine (Must have a valid license to Practice). Computer literacy. (4) Monitoring & Evaluation Assistant in Yangon : A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (Public Health, Epidemiology, Computer science, Statistics, Social science, or a related field). Pls submit CV to IOM Mission in Myanmar - Yangon, 12th Flr, Traders Hotel, 223, Sule Pagoda Rd, Email: iomyangon@iom.int, http://www.iom.int writing, speaking), and competency in database establishment and management. Working experience with communities in Kayin/ Mon. Burmese and Karen language skills essential. Livelihood Officer (1 position based in Kawkreik township) : University degree in agronomy/ Veterinary or any other relevant field. Technical skills and experience in the sustainable livelihoods, small business development, livestock development in the south east of Myanmar essential. Minimum 3 years relevant work experience and demonstrated competencies in integrated project approach; Knowledge of and work experience in capacity building and training to small-scale agricultural farmers, livestock farmers and community leaders, and a sound understanding of relevant community based food security issues. Demonstrated community mobilisation, p a r t i c i p a t o r y techniques, training and facilitation skills. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment and team building skills. Familiarity with community organising skills. English, Burmese and Karen language skills essential. Partner Agronomist (1 position based in Hpa-pun township) Qualifications and competencies : University degree in agronomy or any agriculture related field. Technical skills and experience in the food security and sustainable livelihoods and agriculture sector in dry zone are essential. Minimum 3 years relevant work experience and demonstrated competencies in setting up farmers field schools, seed multiplication techniques, setting up and management of nurseries and also integrated project approach; Knowledge of and work experience in capacity building and training to small scale farmers and community leaders, and a sound understanding of relevant community based food security issues. Demonstrated community mobilisation, p a r t i c i p a t o r y techniques, training and facilitation skills. Strong interpersonal skills, sound judgment and team building skills. Familiarity with community organising skills. English, Burmese and Karen language skills essential. Community Development Officer (2 positions based in Kawkreik township) Qualifications and competencies : Minimum BEHS level of education. Experience in community facilitation/ community organising using participatory methods. A sincere desire to help small scale farmers, livestock farmers and landless families. At least 3 years community mobilization/ facilitation work at the community level or equivalent experience is helpful. Strong familiarity with participatory d e v e l o p m e n t approaches. Good problem solving and organizational skills. Understanding of village level problems. Knowledge about agriculture, fisheries, livestock/small scale income generation activities helpful. English, Burmese and Karen language skills essential. Sub-office Finance Officer (3 positions based in Thandaunggyi, Hpa-pun and Kawkreik townships) Qualifications and competencies : Bachelors degree in Commerce/Economics / BACT. At least two years experience in accounting with INGOs. Experience in working as part of multi-disciplinary teams. Excellent communication and negotiation skills. Advance computer skills particularly in Excel. Ability to work under pressure and willingness to travel in the field. English, Burmese and Karen language skills essential. Interested and qualified candidates are requested to send a Cover Letter and CV to the HR Unit of HelpAge International - Myanmar, No. 25 A/1, New University Avenue Road, Saya San Ward, Bahan Township, Yangon OR to hr.helpagemyanmar@ gmail.com no latter than 5 p.m. 5th July 2013. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview. Candidates interested in positions based in Thandaunggyi/ Hpa-pun/ Kawkreik are requested to clearly indicate their preferred job location and position. MYANMAR Red Cross Society is seeking RFL Training Officer, Restoring Family Links (RFL) Unit 1 post in Nay Pyi Taw: University Degree in Social Work, Education, Administration or other relevant area. Good command of English & Myanmar. Well development computer skills, with demonstrated competence in Excel, Word and Power Point (English and Myanmar). Pls submit a letter of application, relevant documents, CV, 1 passport photo with necessary documents (Cover letter CV documents only need to be sent via e-mail) to mrcshrrecruitment@ gmail.com before 21st June 2013. MYANMAR Red Cross Society is seeking(1) Project Officer 1 post in Nay Pyi Taw: Degree or advanced education, certificate in health/ social science, management or other relevant subject. 2 years of experience in health related field. Effective both Myanmar & English Language skills. Computer literate. (2)Program Support Officer 1 post in Nay Pyi Taw: University degree or bachelor related to the position. 2 years experience in position of monitoring & evaluation officer & community based development projects required. Effective English language skills. Very good Computer literacy. (3) Livelihood Technician 1 post in Myebon: University degree. 1 years experience. Pls submit a letter of application, relevant documents & CV, 1 passport photo with necessary documents (Cover letter CV documents only need to be sent via e-mail) to mrcshrrecruitment@ gmail.com before 28th June 2013 www. myanmarredcross.org MEDECINS Sans Frontieres-Holland (AZG) is seeking OAS 2 posts in Yangon: 10th standard pass. Interest in and willingness to work with TB/DR-TB patients & PLHAs. Pls send application letter, CV & passport-photo, copies of education qualifications & references to: MSFHolland/ AZG (Yangon Project Office) No.15(C), Aung Min Khaung St, Kamayut, Yangon. Or through msfh.myanmar. recruitment@gmail.com Closing date : 25th Jun 2013. S O L I D A R I T E S Int'l is seeking (1) Administrative Manager in Bhamo, Kachin State: University level or equivalent in accounting/ manage ment/ administration. 1 years in a similar position with NGO. Excellent knowledge of Word & Excel. Fluent in English & Myanmar. Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references) by email to : hr.solidarites.mm@ gmail.com, recruitment@ solidarites-myanmar. org. (2)Administrative Supervisor in Bhamo, Kachin State: Academic background in Manage ment, finance or accounting studies. Fluent in English & Myanmar. Computer knowledge skills. Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references) to : U Than Win Aung, Base Manager - Solidarites Int'l office (Bhamo) at Hospital Rd, Kachin Su Ward, Bhamo or per mail hr.solidarites.mm@ gmail.com, Closing date : 30th June 2013. WORLD VISION Myanmar is seeking (1) Accountability, Monitoring & Evalua tion Facilitator (Food Program) in Waingmaw, Kachin State: Bachelor university degree in any discipline. 2 years experience in accounts or data management. Computer literate. (2) Field Accountant in Pyigyitagon, Mandalay Region : University Bachelor Degree in Accounting/ Finance or related subject. 3 years experience in the field of finance in commercial or public institutions or INGO. Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Word, Excel and good knowledge of computerize accounting. (3)Design, Monitoring & Evaluation Facilitator 1 post in Falam, Chin State: Bachelor University Degree in any discipline. Competent in use of Microsoft Office computer programs including Word, Excel & Power Point. 2 years of progressive experience in project programming and monitoring. Good command of Myanmar & English and report writing skill is desirable. (4)Credit Facilitator (Micro Finance Program) 2 posts in Chanmyathazi & Pyigyitagon, Mandalay: University Degree in any discipline with some desired focus in Finance, Accounting and/ or Development studies. 2 years experience in Microfinance Program. (5) Community D e v e l o p m e n t Facilitator 3 posts in Seikphyu, Falam & Pyigyitagon: University Bachelor Degree in any discipline. 1 year experience in community development or related field. (6) Area Development Program Manager - 2 post in Falam, Chin State & Seikphyu, Magway: University Bachelor Degree in Social Studies and Masters Degree in Development/ Public Administration/ Business Administration/ Policy Studies would be an advantage. 5 years experience. For 5 & 6 : Competent in use of Microsoft Office. Excellent command of Myanmar & English and excellent knowledge in report writing. Pls submit resume (clearly identify the post you apply) by post to HR Department, World Vision Myanmar or in person to application drop-box at 18, Shin Saw Pu Rd; Ahlone, Sanchaung PO or send to myajobapps@wvi. org Closing date : July 1, 2013. MEDECINS Sans Frontieres - Holland (AZG) is seeking Deputy Project Medical Coordinator 1 post in Maungdaw : MBBS Degree (essential). 1 year clinical experience (essential). Good level of English (essential). Computer skills, Micro soft office, Excel specifically (essential). 2 years experience as Medical Doctor in project with MSF (desirable). Pls send application letter, CV & passport photo, copies of education qualifications & references to: MSFHolland/ AZG (Yangon Coordination), 62A, Bawdiyeiktha - Thanlwin Rd, Bahan, Yangon or through rakhine-esdrecruiting@oca.msf.org, Closing date : 25th June 2013. MEDECINS Sans Frontiers - Holland (AZG) is seeking (1) Project Head Mechanic - 1 post in Yangon : Higher education in car mechanics. 2 years experience. Good command of English. (2) Medical Storekeeper - 1 post in Sittwe: University degree (preferably Pharmacy Degree or Diploma). Working experience in a related field with an INGO. Good computer skills. Good command of English. Pls send application letter, CV, passport photo, copies of education qualifications & references to: Logistics Coordinator, MSFHolland/ AZG (Yangon Coordination) : 62A, Bawdiyeiktha-Thanlwin Rd, Bahan, Yangon. or through msfh.myanmar. recruitment@gmail.com SOLIDARITES Int'l (SI) is seeking Logistics Manager in Bhamo/ Kachin State: 4 years of professional experience in Logistics field with INGO/NGO. University Degree or Diploma (preferably in Logistics Or related proven experience in similar area.). Knowledge of IT management & MS office. Fluent in English & Myanmar (Kachin & Chinese will be a plus). Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references) to attention of: Application for the Logistics Manager PositionSolidarites Int'l office - 44-A, Tharyarwaddy Lane, Bahan, Yangon or per email: recruitment@ solidarites-myanmar.org. ACF-MYANMAR is seeking (1) Programme Manager (Food security / Livelihoods / WaSH) for Maungdaw/Buthidaung, Rakhine State. Basic skills in Agronomy and/or economy and/or WASH, 4 years professional experiences(in Program me Management of Rural Development activities (Agriculture and/or social sciences or engineering),Analytical capacity, Capacity to supervise a team, Good human relations, Good knowledge of projects implementation & command of PCM tools, Computer knowledge, Good command in English. Pls send application (cover letter, CV, references) to ACF Office :78(D), Than Lwin Rd, Bahan, Yangon OR Via an email:jobs.acf. mya@gmail.com St, Corner of 45 St, Botahtaung, Yangon. Ph: 8610458 ~ 460 Ext: 300, email : leisure@ mm.diethelmtravel.com. WE ARE currently seeking (1).Cashier - F 1 post : Any Graduate, LCCI Level I, II, Age 20 ~ 25 (2).Accountant - M/F 1 post : B.Com, LCCI Level (III), ACCA, For 1 & 2 : Age 25 ~ 35. Knowledge of accounting procedure & accounting record (Data Entry) with 1 years experiences in account receivable control. (3). Sales Supervisor - M 1 post : Any graduate, Age 25 ~ 30, 2 years experience. Intermediate level (English), Dealer super vision in lower & upper (4). Marketing Office Staff - F 1 post : Any graduate, Age 25 ~ 30, 2 years experience, Intermediate level (English), Web Develop ment, DTP, Bookkeeping, Communi cating (5). Shipping Officer - M 1 post : To handle all competition of export/import matters, customer clearance & all government matters .(6).Logistics Manager - M 1 post : Any graduate, 35 ~ 45, 5 years experience in Logistics field , Must prefer alcohol production experience, Must have English & computer literacy. (7). Warehouse Data Entry Supervisor - M 1 post : Any Graduate, 25 ~ 30, 1 years experience, Good command in English & computer skills. Pls submit CV with 1 recent photo, relevant documents & references to HR Department Victory Myanmar Group Co., Ltd: 216, 6th Flr, Bogyoke Aung San Rd., Botahtaung, Yangon. Ph : 398414, 398074 (1)WEB DESIGNER - M/F 5 Posts : Photoshop, Flash, Dreamweaver (or) MS Front Page, HRML, CSS, JavaScript, CMS (Joomla,Mambo)(2) Marketing - M/F 5 Posts : Computer Basic, English Basic. 165/167, 1Flr, 35th St (Middle), Kyauktada. INTERNATIONAL law firm seeking qualified lawyers. Lawyers should have5yearsofexperience in International Firm. Strong command of English required due to significant interaction with foreign clients. Outstanding opportunity with competitive salary package Submit CV to suhlaing07@gmail.com Tel: 526180 KELVIN CHIA Yangon Ltd is a foreign legal consultancy firm is seeking(1) Lawyers who will work on a variety of corporate & commercial matters & transactions in Myanmar. Myanmar nationals admitted to intl bars are also welcome to apply. Training will be provided. Applicants may email to klm@kcyangon. com and submit your curriculum vitae. (2) Corporate Affairs Executive/Assistant As a corporate affairs executive/assistant, you will be involved with business development, networking, market research & liaison work. Proficient in English, energetic & self-motivated. All nationalities are welcome (Myanmar, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Taiwanese, etc). Pls email application & curriculum vitae to kk@kcyangon. com. (3) Admin cum Accounts Assistant: Good communication skills in English. Mature & capable of supervising & directing subordinates. Must be well-organized, meticulous, have initiative & execute instructions promptly. Some accounting back ground & experience preferred. Pls send full resume stating current & expected salaries,

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Ingo Positions
The HelpAge Project Consortium is currently looking for suitable candidates for the following positions: M& E Coordinator (1 position based in Yangon) Person Specification: University degree, at least 3 years experience in participatory M&E. Strong familiarity with monitoring and evaluation in livelihood/food security project. Experience in the design of simple M&E tools with project staff and community leaders. Experience in training and mentoring staff and community leaders, facilitating development of simple -M&E tools by staff and community leaders to collect qualitative and quantitative information on project progress. Demonstrated English language proficiency (reading,

Local Position
AN INTERNATIONAL School in Yangon is urgently looking for a Native English speaking Principal. Pls send the CV to (job.new. vacancy@gmail.com). DIETHELM Travel Ltd is a leading tourism company in Myanmar based in Yangon is looking for Reservation Senior Staff 2 posts. All applicants should be motivated, creative, hardworking, great communicatior with good written & spoken English & fully computer literate in MS office. Pls sumbit CV to 412, Merchant

together with a recent photograph to chw@ kcyangon.com. BANDOOLA Enterprises Ltd is seeking Assistant Service Manager - 1 Post : Degree in Mechanical Engineering. Work experience for around 10 years in Tractor, Automobile & generator repair. Experience in repair & maintenance of Heavy equipment is also acceptable. Fluent in English, Able to operate computers. Have the ability to train mechanics under him. (2) Service Engineer - 2 Posts : Degree/ Diploma in Mechanical Engineering. Without relevant education can also apply if more than 10 year experience Work experience for around 5 years in Tractor, Automobile & generator repair. Experience in repair and maintenance of Heavy equipment is also acceptable. (3) Marketing Manager : Experienced in liasing with Government & Institutional Officers. Experience in tender procedure & Submissions. Know ledge in automotive & farm equipment business, Fluent in English & computer operations. (4) Marketing Surveyor : Knowledge in automotive business in Myanmar. 5 years experience in market survey and research. Must have knowledge of customs & automotive importation regulation. Fluent in English & computer operations. (5)Sales Consultants - 5 Posts : 3 years experience in selling cars, pickups, motorcycles, 3 wheeler, Tractors or farm equipment. Knowledge of English is an add advent. Eligible applicants must send in CV's Before 30.6.2013 to Email (gbg. tractors@gmail.com) OR Ph :09-4200-87374. THE INT'L Montessori Myanmar (IMM) invites applications from Foreign English Native Speaker for teaching position: The foreign teacher works with Myanmar teachers. The position is not an ESL job. The foreign teacher also takes a role as model and mentor for Myanmar teachers. Lunch is provided for teachers at school. Both part-time and full time positions are available. Working hours: Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 4:00. Pls email CV through imm.myngmail. com or contact 55(B) Po Sein Rd, Bahan, Yangon. tel: 546097, 546761. WE ARE looking for an individual for the position of 'Associate Attorney (full-time)' in Yangon for a Cambodia Law Firm with highly attractive salary and benefit package. The personal interviews will be conducted from June 8 to 15 in Yangon.Pls submit your application ASAP to: info@ zenithpowermyanmar. com, hrsolutions@ zenithpowermyanmar. com WE ARE looking for Manager (Financial Control & Procurement)' with Int'l Pharmaceuticals Company in Myanmar: Finance related degree holder from any University with managerial experience. 5 to 10 years experience. Pharmaceutical experience will be an advantage. Strong SAP knowledge. Good command of English. Good analytical & interpersonal skill. Pls submit application ASAP to: info@ zenithpowermyanmar. com, hrsolutions@ zenithpowermyanmar. com BAYVIEW - The Beach Resort in Ngapali is urgently looking for (1) Bakery Chef - 1 post,

must have 3 years experience in related field. Application letter by email to reservation@ b a y v i e w - m y a n m a r. com or Savoy Hotel 129, Dhammazedi Rd, Yangon. VDB Loi, a regional legal and tax firm, has a number of vacancies in legal, tax translation and admin. Details on these positions can be found at www.vdb-loi. com/careers/ ENTERPRETER'S available (Part time/ Full time). English to Myanmar + Hindi Myanmar to English + Urdu. By-: R.S.Verma. B.Sc.(Bot) ygn.UFL (Eng.)ygn. Ph: 09-730-42604. PARKWAY Cancer Centre is seeking Medical Doctor - F 1 post : A minimum degree from university M.B,B.S with SA MA registration. Age 23 28. Good communication in English. Must be able to use computer, internet and Microsoft application with excellent skills. We welcome the candidates who are trust worthy, selfmotivated & outstanding, willing to learn and able to focus on work,be polite and hospitality , able to communicate in courteous manners and must have positive working attitude. Pls submit CV with recent photocopy of relevant certificates & documents, describe working experience from graduation till present & expected salary to Rm (G-07), G Flr, Diamond Center, Pyay Rd, Kamayut. Tel : 532438, 532447, 09 - 513- 6584. RUBY DRAGON Companies Hotels Group : A well-established New Hotels are looking for (1) Operation Manager M/F 2 posts (2)Front Office Manager - M/F 2 posts. (3)Reception Supervisor - M/F 2 posts (4)Receptionist - M/F 3 post (5)Bell-men - M 4 post (6)Driver - M 2 posts (7)Business Center Attendant - M/F 2 posts (8)Souvenier Shop Assistant - M/F 2 posts (9)Spa Masseur - M/F 3 posts (10) Beautician M/F 2 posts. Pls submit application letter, CV with recent photo, with necessary documents to Admin Department : 39(A), 7miles, Pyay Rd, Ma Yan Gone. Ph: 664158, 652662 NETSMART, a leading IT company in Myanmar, is expanding its business and is looking for skilled & highly motivated individuals with good English to join its team.(1)IT Technical Engineer -F/M 7 Posts (2)Receptionist cum Secretary - F 1 Post. For details, please check on our website www.netsmart.com.mm. Apply on-line or send CV with a recent photo, labour registration, expected salary & other relevant documents to 70-B Tharthana Yeikthar St, Bahan, Ph : 541351, 552729 Closing date : 29.6.2013. INNOTECH is seeking (1).Electronics/ Mechantronics Engineer - M/F 3 Posts Age above 23, Bachelor (or) Degree in Electronics Field, 1 years experience (2).IT Engineer - M/F 2 Posts : Any graduate with strong IT knowledge, Age above 22, 1 years experience in IT field (3).Web Designer - M/F 1 Post : Any graduate, Age above 22 years. (4). Office Staff - M/F 2 Posts : Any graduate, Age between 20-23 years, Can use Microsoft Office, Internet & Email. Pls submit CV, 2 passport photo to (401), Kaba Aye Villa Residence, Myangone, Yangon. Ph : 09-421156547, 09732-20670 Email: eng@ innotechmyanmar.com

60 Sport
NICE, FRANCE OL PEJETA, KENYA

THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Contador my biggest threat, says Froome

SPAINS two-time Tour de France champion Alberto Contador has been nominated by race favourite Chris Froome as his biggest threat for this years edition, which gets underway on June 29 in Corsica. Froome, who was Kenyan-born but brought up in South Africa and who has ridden with a British licence since 2008, had Contador well behind him in the Criterium du Dauphine, an influential warm-up race, earlier this month but he believes that will count for nothing once they start the Tour. I think there is quite a big group of competitors who could be looking to go for the yellow jersey this year, maybe 6, 7 guys who could be competitive there, the 28-year-old said. However, Alberto Contador is still the biggest threat at the moment. Hes won many grand tours in the past and hell certainly be ready for this years Tour de France. Froome, who finished second in the Tour last year to Sky teammate Bradley Wiggins after working tirelessly for his compatriot throughout the race, admitted that he was feeling nervous ahead of the start but he drew a positive message from that. Definitely nervous. Ahead of a three-week race like the Tour de France its probably a good thing to feel a little bit nervous, but I do feel confident that Ive done all the correct preparation up until now and Im going into the Tour de France with a really strong team behind me, said Froome, who has been virtually unbeatable this season. Froome, who also won Olympic time-trial bronze last year while Wiggins took gold, admitted that not having Wiggins on the team would make a difference, although it is widely believed that their relationship has deteriorated especially after Froome was chosen to be team leader for this years Tour. Wiggins has since pulled out of the Tour with a knee injury, although that hasnt prevented him from training in Mallorca as he prepares for a late season challenge at

the world championships, having said he does not want to contest the Tour of Spain. We no longer have the strength that Bradley could have brought to the Tour team, said Froome. Froome, who Sky is keen to see extend his contract with other teams reportedly preparing to try and lure him away come the August 1 deadline when official bids for riders are permitted, said that the idea was not to try and take the yellow jersey too early and then hold onto it. If I can get into the yellow jersey at any point, that would be, obviously, the objective for me but I

wouldnt say we have to try and go for it as soon as possible, he said. I think the first three stages in Corsica are going to be very tricky and to avoid any crashes or anything happening there is going to be the main objective. Froome, who has also won the Tour of Romandie and the Criterium International this term, rubbished reports that he had said he wanted to win the Tour de France on several occasions, especially as he was yet to win one. Ive never said that I want to win the Tour several times. I would love to win it once even, he said. AFP

The Maasai Warriors cricket team plays a T20 cricket match against the Ambassadors of

Kenyas crick

Maasai tribesmen pick up thei from lions to Lords

IN PICTURES

Royal flush: Britains Queen Elizabeth II greets her horse, Estimate, after becoming the first reigning British monarch to win the Gold Cup on the third day of the Royal Ascot, in Berkshire, on June 20. Photo: AFP

ITH lions lurking in the long grass, the barefoot Maasai warrior gallops into a sprint and swings his spear arm, delivering a fast-paced cricket ball straight at the wicket. Dressed in flowing red skirts and draped in colourful bead necklaces, the warriors from the legendary Kenyan tribe are one of the worlds most unusual and unlikely cricketing teams. It is a sport that at first seemed very strange to us, said Robert Kilesi Piroris, 28, Maasai warrior and cricket player. But today the game brings us and the community together, and we love it, he added, speaking as he waited to bat in a friendly match, on a pitch mown out of the rolling grass savannah of northern Kenya, with giraffes strolling past in the distance. It is doubtful you could find a place more different from the birthplace of the sport on the manicured grass of Britains famous Lords Cricket Ground. But that is exactly where the Maasai hope to go, after they were invited to join an international competition at the renowned field in August, at the Twenty20 cricket Last Man Stands World Championships in London. We can show the world that we may look different to those dressed in cricket whites but can still play the game, said captain Sonyanga Ole Ngais. The team needs to raise funds, drumming up support and sponsorship for the trip, but has already shown its ability to take an international tour, playing in South

Africa in 2012 in short format Twenty20 games there. Freddie Grounds, a major in the British army which trains troops in the Laikipia region of Kenya, joined in the match to make up numbers on a visiting Indian team playing against the Maasai. Its an amazing experience and sight to see them play here, said Grounds, but added that it would be nothing compared to the sight of the warriors playing at Lords. Lords is the spiritual home of cricket ... I guess that the traditional members of the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club, owner of Lords) will find it all a bit bizarre, Grounds added. But if they can get there, and lets hope they can raise sufficient funds to do it, you know, people just wont be able to believe themselves. British troops stationed in Kenya keen to encourage the Maasai are even helping out to clear a cricket field for the team, since the players currently have to walk for several hours from their dispersed and remote villages to reach a training ground.

We can show the world that we may look different to those dressed in cricket whites but can still play the game.
Sonyanga Ole Ngais Maasai cricket captain

www.mmtimes.com
BANGKOK

Sport 61

National futsal team struggles in Thailand

AUNG SI HEIN aungsiheinmm8@gmail.com MYANMARs national futsal team got off to an embarrassing start on their Southeast Asian Games preparation tour of Thailand, suffering three straight losses in their opening matches. Myanmar fell to Bangkok FC, the Thai national team and the national team of the United Arab Emirates during the first half of their neighbourly visit, which wraps up on June 28. Despite the disappointing outcomes, team manager Kyi Min Thein tried to look at the positives. We still have to play three more matches. We have been rewarded by gaining very good experience from playing against the best teams in Asia. We will try hard to have good results in the next matches, he said. Myanmar is scheduled to play against Thai teams Port Football Club, Gold Club and Sripatum Club before returning home. The lack of positive results does not bode well for Myanmar, which is hoping to make a deep run during the upcoming Southeast Asian (SEA) Games set to open in Nay Pyi Taw on December 11. Futsal Committee Chairman of the Myanmar Football Federation Ye Htut Tin blamed a lack of international experience and infrastructure for the teams inability to compete at a higher level. We never travel outside of our country to have friendly matches or participate in international tournaments, he said. Additionally we dont have a proper futsal stadium. We are using Hlaing Stadium and Thuwunna Stadium. They are not available sometimes because Hlaing stadium floods during the rainy season and Thuwunna Stadium is often used to host other sporting events. Ye Htut Tin looked at the decreasing goal differentials as a sign of progress despite the less than ideal conditions. That is a great hope for us, he said of the less one-sided outcomes. To see success at the SEA Games Myanmar will have the difficult task of upsetting rivals Vietnam and Indonesia, but face their biggest challenge in regional power Thailand, which competed in last years FIFA Futsal World Cup. To help achieve these lofty goals, Myanmar has hired an Iranian coach to train their team.

Murray poised to end Britains 77 years of pain

Cricket from India, in Laikipia National Park in Kenya on June 6. Photo: AFP

PARIS

ket warriors
The Maasai team are not simply about playing a good game, but also about raising awareness of key issues that their community faces. They visit schools to talk about AIDS prevention, early marriage, gender equality, environmental protection and battling alcoholism and drug addiction. School children turn up to watch the game here, while entertainment on the sidelines and during breaks in the game include simple dramas and songs focusing on HIV awareness. Tents alongside the grounds also offer HIV tests encouraging people to get tested to know their status. Another key issue that the cricketers can flag is the impact rampant poaching is having on wildlife. Weve come to watch the game but we learn about the problems of poaching too, said Murunga Tialolo, a schoolboy at the match, proudly showing the posters displayed near the pavilion of army canvas tents. Cricket, imported into Kenya during British colonial rule, is played in scattered schools and in the east African countrys largest cities. The Maasai team uses cricket metaphors to deliver messages within its highly traditional and patriarchal community, in which early marriage and female genital mutilation are firmly rooted customs. For captain Ngais, keeping the traditional dress is a way of showing that the team members are true Maasai while still working to move their society forward. We want to show people that we are trying to battle some of the retrogressive issues in our culture, he said. But the good part of the

ir bats as they look to go

A Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS) ranger adjusts the scoreboard during a T20 cricket match on June 6. Photo: AFP

culture, its there all the time, he added, pointing to his necklaces. While passionate about cricket, the team still needs plenty of practice should players raise the funds to go to Lords. But professionals are optimistic. Vikram Dayal, an ex-Mumbai cricketer heading a touring team playing in Kenya, was quick to praise the Maasais raw and natural talent at the game, and said he is hopeful team members could one day be playing for the national team. AFP

THE Spanish Civil War started, Gone with the Wind was a publishing sensation and Jesse Owens spectacularly defied Hitler and the Nazis at the Berlin Olympics. It was 1936, and it was also the year that Fred Perry won Britains most recent Wimbledon mens title. Now, 77 years on, Andy Murray is poised to end that longing at the All England Club where 12 months ago his campaign ended in a tearful final defeat before the pain was eased slightly by Olympic gold on the same storied Centre Court. Having also added the US Open last year, Murray knows that this could be his best Wimbledon opportunity. With each year that passes, you kind of know what sort of stuff you can and cant do, and whats going to get you in the best mindset for the tournament and physically get myself in the best shape possible, he said. Im experienced enough to deal with it and go into Wimbledon with no issues. Murray, 26, heads into his eighth Wimbledon, buoyed by a third Queens grasscourt trophy and free of the back injury which forced him to sit out the French Open. He will also go into the tournament riding a wave of national sympathy after his tearful response to losing the 2012 final to Roger Federer prompted a dramatic reassessment of the countrys only player in the worlds top 200. Suddenly, the granite-grim image of the muscular Scot softened into something altogether cuddlier, far more in keeping with the genteel expectations of leafy southwest London. But he is desperate to keep the lid on complacency, aware that standing in his way are seven-time champion Roger Federer; two-time winner Rafael Nadal, fresh from a record eighth Roland Garros title; as well as world number one Novak Djokovic, the 2011 champion. Just because I won the US Open, it doesnt mean Im going to do great there or because I played well on the grass last year. Theres no guarantees at all in sport, said the world number two, who has been on a constant upward curve at Wimbledon. As a gangly teenager, he made

Britains Andy Murray returns to Croatias Marin Cilic during their ATP Aegon Championships final tennis match in London on June 16. Photo: AFP

the third round on his 2005 debut, the last 16 the year after, the quarter-finals in 2008, followed by three successive semi-final runs before his breakthrough to the 2012 final. Federer, meanwhile, the holder of a record 17 majors, can become the first man to win eight Wimbledon titles and go one better than Pete Sampras. But he will be 32 in August while Sampras won the last of his Wimbledon titles as a 28-year-old in 2000. An eighth victory for the Swiss would make him the second oldest champion at Wimbledon in the Open era, just behind Arthur Ashe who was six days short of his 32nd birthday when he triumphed in 1975. Federer, who is celebrating the 10th anniversary of his first Wimbledon title, insists that he can approach the tournament free of worry. Ten years ago I went into Wimbledon with so much pressure, he said. In terms of needing to prove my point that I was a legitimate Grand Slam contender, I had incredible pressure. Now, ten years later, I know Wimbledon. I know my way around and what I need to do to perform well. Nadal, the 2008 and 2010 champion, played down his chances of a third title in London even as he was still celebrating his historic eighth

French Open victory. The Spaniard is worried over how his left knee will cope with the strains of the grass courts, a fear prompted by his bittersweet relationship with the tournament. Nadal had to skip the 2009 championships through injury while, 12 months ago, he was sent packing in a second round shocker by 100th-ranked Czech Lukas Rosol. That shattering defeat forced Nadal off the tour for seven months and he missed the Olympics as well as the US and Australian Opens. I am going without having trained on grass and it is a surface that you have to understand, learn once again and know how to play the points and focus in the right manner, said 12-time major winner Nadal, who has seven titles since his return in February. For a man who is top seed, and the defending Australian Open champion, Djokovic heads for Wimbledon overshadowed by talk of Murrays and Federers bids for history and the ongoing condition checks on Nadals knee. The 26-year-old hasnt played a grass court warm-up, opting to rest after his marathon five-set loss to Nadal in the French Open semi-finals. Djokovic beat Nadal in the 2011 final for his only Wimbledon title. AFP

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THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

Neymar counter-attacks
ARGETED by protesters as a symbol of footballs disconnection from reality, Brazil superstar Neymar went on the counter-attack by chiding the government and then sinking Mexico on the pitch in the Confederations Cup. Lauded ever since his debut as a teenager for Santos, the Brazilian club made famous by his illustrious predecessor, Pel, the prodigious attacker has long been accustomed to being the centre of attention. Typically, it is praise from male football supporters and howls from his female fan club, When he has received criticism, it has tended to focus on the gulf between his dazzling displays for Santos and his rather more prosaic performances for Brazil. But on June 19, the critics moved the goal posts. The mass protests that have rolled across Brazil since last week, initially against public transport price increases, have widened their scope. Now, as well as calling for better funding in health and education, the demonstrators have begun to denounce the vast sums invested by the government in the Confederations Cup and next years World Cup. And a slogan was coined on June 19 as some 15,000 people marched in Fortaleza, prior to Brazils match with Mexico: Brazil wake up, a teacher is worth more than Neymar! The 21-year-old forward, who joined Spanish super club Barcelona at the start of the month in a deal reportedly worth US$75.3 million had initially kept his silence. But after 250,000 people took to the streets of Brazil on June 17, national team stars David Luiz, Hulk, Dani Alves and Fred spoke out in support of the movement, and Neymar was quick to follow suit. Neymar, though, went even further than his team-mates, attacking the government in a manner rare for a high-profile sportsperson. Saddened by all that is occurring in Brazil, he wrote on his Instagram account.
Brazils forward Neymar scores past Mexicos goalkeeper Jose Corona during their FIFA Confederations Cup football match, at the Castelao Stadium in Fortaleza, Brazil on June 19. Photo: AFP

FORTALEZA, BRAZIL

Tension, anger as Asian giants reach World Cup

ASIAN giants Iran, South Korea and Australia scrambled into next years World Cup on June 18 after scenes of crowd anger and high tension on the final night of group qualifying. Irate South Korean fans hurled water bottles and other debris after Iran booked their ticket with a 1-0 smash-and-grab win in Ulsan, following a tetchy build-up between the two teams. South Korea also accused Iran coach Carlos Queiroz of making an obscene hand gesture at his rival Choi Kang-Hee, and said they expected a FIFA investigation. No comment was immediately available from Queiroz. A South Korean newspaper condemned Irans players and officials, but made little mention of their own fans poor behaviour. When their victory was confirmed, all the Iranian players ran towards the South Korean bench, pumping their fists and making insulting gestures, the Sport Chosun daily wrote in an editorial. Those who are only good at playing games but have no respect for sportsmanship do not deserve to go to the World Cup. But some South Korean fans took to microblogging site Twitter with a different view of events. The water bottles thrown out to Iranian player showed to the whole world how ugly we are as a nation, tweeted user, @ulgongja. It emerged after that South Korea had also qualified as Uzbekistan, despite beating Qatar 5-1, just missed out on goal difference. The Uzbeks will now face Jordan, 1-0 victors over Oman thanks to Ahmad Ibrahims 57th-minute goal, in a play-off. Australia left it late before substitute striker Josh Kennedy earned a 1-0 win over Iraq in Sydney, enough to take the Socceroos through to their third successive World Cup. Im sorry it wasnt pretty, but we beat them ... Lets look at the positives tonight. Were going to Brazil! said captain Lucas Neill. Iran, South Korea and Australia now join Japan, the Asian Cupholders who booked their ticket a fortnight ago, at next years World Cup as the only countries to have qualified alongside hosts Brazil. Although all four Asian qualifiers are familiar names at the World Cup, the year-long elimination process has been hard-fought and came down to the last week of the final group stage. Tensions were high on June 18 and especially in Ulsan, where South Korea had promised to make life painful for Iran and to draw tears of blood from their captain, Javad Nekounam. Ex-Middlesbrough striker Lee Dong-Gook tested Rahman Ahmadi with a stinging attempt from distance but despite dominating the first half, South Korea struggled to create clear chances. Iran started the second period with more ambition and on 59 minutes, they were suddenly in front thanks to a defensive howler from Kim Young-Gwon and the alert thinking of Reza Ghoochannejhad. Defender Kim failed to make a simple clearance on the touchline and had his pocket picked by Ghoochannejhad, who scampered goalward and bent a left-footed shot around Jung Sung-Ryong. South Korea pressed desperately for the equaliser and Kim Young-Gwon nearly made amends for his mistake but put a free header wide near the end. Lee Keun-Ho also came close to scoring in injury time. It was a very difficult match. We knew that we played a great team, Queiroz said. South Koreas Choi, who is now stepping down from the job, preferred not to talk about his row with Queiroz. I am not going to comment on that. After this loss, whatever I say may sound like an excuse, said Choi. In Tashkent, Uzbekistan needed a hatful of goals but they went behind when a botched pass out of defence gave Abdulqadir Ilyas an easy chance on 36 minutes. Uzbekistan took up residence in Qatari territory and they finally got their reward through substitute striker Bahodir Nasimovs toe-poke on 60 minutes. Oleg Zoteevs dribble and shot put Uzbekistan in front on 72 minutes, and the massed fans at Bunyodkor Stadium dared to dream when Nasimov scored their third from close range two minutes later. Late strikes from Odil Ahmedov and Ulugbek Bakaev raised excitement to fever pitch but the clock quickly ticked through injury time and the former Soviet republic were kept waiting for a first foray to footballs biggest stage. Earlier in Sydney, Australia wasted countless chances in wet conditions before coach Holger Osieck replaced a visibly angry Tim Cahill with Kennedy in the 77th minute. The towering Nagoya Grampus striker justified the substitution when he saved the day with a clinical 83rd-minute header that not only sent the 80,000 crowd wild, but also dispatched his team to next years World Cup. AFP

SINGAPORE

I always had faith that it would not be necessary to come to the point of having to take to the streets to demand better conditions for transport, health, education and security. All this is the OBLIGATION of the government. He went on, seeking to underline that he, too, is a part of the Brazilian people. My parents worked hard to be able to provide my sister and me with a minimal quality of life, he said. The only possibility I have to

represent and defend the country is to play ball on the pitch. And starting from this match against Mexico, Ill go onto the pitch inspired by this movement. He stuck to his word. Having previously scored a fine opening goal in Brazils 3-0 win over Japan, he broke the deadlock against Mexico with a sumptuous left-foot volley and then completed a man-ofthe-match display by brilliantly teeing up Jo for the second goal in a 2-0 win. AFP

OLINDA, BRAZIL

Brazils poor feel left behind on road to World Cup

BRAZILIANS left behind by a vaunted economic boom have come to see next years World Cup not as a celebration of the countrys rising stature but as a symbol of its lingering inequality. Their anger has fuelled the countrys biggest protests in 20 years, casting a pall over the Confederations Cup, a dress rehearsal for next years football extravaganza, the first World Cup in football-mad Brazil since 1950. In my opinion, these people dont get anything from these tournaments. They dont have a voice, so they dont get heard, said Marcio, a tour guide in his 20s from the historic town of Olinda. The UNESCO heritage jewel lies 18 kilometeres (11 miles) outside the northeastern city of Recife, which on June 19 hosted Japan and three-time world champions Italy. Until June 19, Recife had been spared the social unrest that has increasingly engulfed other venues, starting with the capital, Brasilia, scene of Saturdays tournament opener between the Brazilians and the Japanese. The protests were triggered by hikes in public transit fares but have grown into a massive show of anger at the governments lavishing of funds on international sporting events and perceived neglect of health and education. Marcio said the authorities should have seen the problem coming. The pace of modernisation is slow here, and while of course we love football, many people can be forgiven for saying, when they see the new stadiums and the swanky hotels: Whats in it for me? he explained. The answer, it appears, is not much, particularly in places like Varadouro, a shanty town on the outskirts of Olinda. Barely three kilometeres away from central Olindas stately Portuguese colonial architecture lies another world far from the sprawling stadiums, one where football offers only a brief respite from grinding poverty. My name is Gleberson, Im 8 years old and my favorite player is Neymar, volunteered a small boy, one of a 20-strong group that quickly materialised in Varadouros potholed, muddy streets. His mother laughed as Gleberson and his friends, some barely two years old, chased their older peers after a long search for a ball and two makeshift nets proved successful. The older boys immediately showed off impressive barefoot skills before one stray shot on goal landed in a stinking canal. Quick as a flash, Gleberson vaulted the wall and gingerly stepped into the water to retrieve the ball so the match could continue in the baking hot sunshine. You wont see any evidence of the Confederations Cup around here, grunted Jaelton, 21, as he dismounted an ancient bicycle. Youve seen these roads and houses. How can anyone live like this? We dont count. No money will ever come here, he said. The local authorities promised nine or 10 years ago to build a cultural and sports centere. But theres no sign of it. The new multimillion-dollar stadium 19 kilometeres to the north of Recife, an island seemingly in the middle of nowhere, is set to become the heart of a new mini-town. But that is a long bike ride for Jaelton, and Varadouro cars are, to put it politely, not entirely roadworthy. I think they expect us to get the underground train up there, but it is too expensive to use at two reals (US$1) a go, he said. How can we spend money on these things when we are lucky to earn 30 reals a day? Once again, the conversation turned back to the transport protests and away from the beautiful game, the joga bonito, the public face of a country in turmoil. AFP

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64 THE MYANMAR TIMES JUNE 24 - 30, 2013

SPORT EDITOR: Tim McLaughlin | timothy.mclaughlin3@gmail.com

Superstar Neymar speaks with actions and words

SPORT 62

MIAMI

Spurs see title slip away

Were really disappointed, said guard Tony Parker. We had a great opportunity in game six. Tonight we did a great fight, but just couldnt get over the hump. Asked if their game six meltdown affected their confidence, Parker said, No, I dont think it matters. But after game seven, of course, youre going to think about game six and how close we were. One free throw, one rebound. But I dont think game six affected game seven. San Antonio was trying to become the first team to win game seven of an NBA finals on the road since the 1978 Washington Bullets. But they were unable to find an answer for playoff MVP LeBron James, who shredded their defense for 37 points, including five threepointers and 12 rebounds. LeBron was unbelievable, Duncan said. He stepped up in this last game and he made enough shots to make us change our defense over and over again. We just couldnt find a way to stop him. The Spurs lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder in last years NBA semi-finals, but came back this season to earn the number two seed behind Duncans best play in three years. Try as he might, Duncans 37-year-old legs couldnt carry the Spurs over the Heat. Probably for me game seven is going to haunt me, said Duncan, who scored 24 points but had a couple of missed shots from inside five feet in the final minute of the June 20 contest. AFP

BRIEFS
Yangon U-19 football team heading to China

N a span of just two days, the San Antonio Spurs went from being seconds away from winning their fifth NBA title to losing a heartbreaking game seven to the Miami Heat. The obvious word is disappointing, said Tim Duncan of the Spurs 95-88 loss late June 20 to the Heat, who won the NBA finals four games to three. Tough end to the game. I made some bad decisions, missed some shots. I dont know what to say. We gave ourselves opportunities to win the game. We just couldnt turn that corner. They made more plays down the stretch, thats the bottom line.

Myanmars U-19 football team will compete in the Weifang Cup in Chinas Shandong Province in July for the first time. The youth tournament, which runs through August, will feature 12 teams including the youth clubs from Portugals Porto, Englands Sunderland and Mexicos Chivas, along with reigning champion Villa Real FC from Spain and others. I am very pleased to participate in this competition. Entering this competition gives our players international experience. We are going to compete at our best and the players have been training hard, assistant coach of the Myanmar U-19 football team Nyi Nyi Thet told The Myanmar Times. The U-19 team is scheduled to compete in the 2013 ASEAN U-19 Championships held in Timor Leste in September and the AFC U-19 Championships to be held next year in Myanmar. Kyaw Zin Hlaing

Moscow Capello staying put despite PSG offer

Probably for me game seven is going to haunt me.

Tim Duncan San Antonio Spurs

Italian Fabio Capello is expected to stay on in his job as boss of the Russian national side until at least the 2014 World Cup, the Russian Football Union said, after he reportedly received an offer to join French big spenders Paris Saint-Germain. Former England manager Capello joined the Russian national team in 2012 on a mission to bring it up to world class standards for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and the 2018 edition which Russia will itself host.
LeBron James #6 of the Miami Heat makes a three-pointer during game seven of the 2013 NBA Finals on June 20 in Miami Photo: AFP

Losing game seven was bad enough, but knowing they let the NBA title slip through their fingers in game six makes it even worse. San Antonio was up by five points and appeared to have the championship in hand when they allowed the Heat to tie the game in the final seconds and force overtime. Miami then went on to win 103-100 in the extra session, setting the stage for the June 20 game.

Sydney Scott to end year at Australian Open

World number four Adam Scott will make his final appearance of the year at the Australian Open in November. The reigning US Masters champion has set himself a gruelling home schedule, having already agreed to play the Australian PGA Championship and defend his Australian Masters title. The Australian Open will be played at the Royal Sydney Golf Club from November 28-December 1. AFP