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Media

freedom
improves

industry
By Yadana Htun

he media in Myanmar has long been used to censorship, having lived under its pall since 1962. Even in October 2010, a record nine journals were suspended by the Press Scrutiny and Registration Division (PSRD), which oversees press censorship in the country. But since the new government was installed on March 30, media sources acknowledge that things have become more positive. We can write political news and interviews with political parties to some extent. We can even publish pictures and activities about opposition leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, veteran journalist Maung Wuntha told The Myanmar Times. I can say this is unusual as they were not allowed in the past, he said. Since the inauguration of President Thein Sein, the respect for the media has risen, bringing a number of surprising developments to the media industry, he said. The president recognises the role of media

Foreign and local correspondents cover the hluttaw sessions in Nay Pyi Taw for the first time last October. Pic: Soe Than Lynn

June 10 the PSRD allowed five genres entertainment, health, children, information technology and sports to publish without submitting a draft ahead of publication, benefiting a total of 178 journals. Foreign and local reporters have been permitted to cover parliamentary proceedings,

I admit that there have been a lot of changes and developments in the media industry this year..... we are still far behind other countries
and he emphasised the importance of media in his presidential speech. In his first address as President, U Thein Sein made an unprecedented call for the role of the media as the fourth estate to be respected. At the same time, there were many relaxations on media censorship, said Maung Wuntha, who is also an advisor of People Age (Pyi Thu Khit) journal. Some changes came quickly. On and, following years of restriction, many internet websites were unblocked in September. Also, following a meeting between the President and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in August, Maung Wuntha said that journals were allowed to run certain stories about the lady. On December 9, the PSRD permitted two more genres, business and crime, to publish freely, effecting 54 periodicals. But Maung Wuntha said these changes are

A vendor reads a journal while waiting for customers in Yangon last month. Pic: Kaung Htet

not that big when judged with international standards. I admit that there have been a lot of changes and developments in the media industry this year, in comparison with the previous 40 years. But compared to current international norms, we are still far behind other countries, he said. Even looking at our neighbour, Thailand, we dont have private daily newspapers. We dont even have the basic materials, so, the freedom of writing is far beyond that, Maung Wuntha said. Nevertheless, the media has had at least one significant impact this year. Journals repeatedly covered opinions and concerns surrounding the environmental impact of the controversial Myitsone Dam project in Kachin State. The awareness raised by the media played a big part in leading to the Presidents decision to suspend the project on September 30, said Maung Wuntha. U Wai Phyo, the chief Editor of Weekly Eleven journal, said he noticed that the industry is improving in its new found freedom, which is in turn drawing attention from the public. The work of the media is better than in the past. People are becoming conscious of the

importance of the media, he said. As the president shows more care for the media, people, including government officials, are more familiar with the media, he said. But for a country that is working towards democracy, he felt that familiarity is not enough, and both sides need to learn how to engage with each other constructively. As we are dealing with people from all classes, we find that people want to remain an anonymous source when they criticise issues. Its still hard for us to get affirmative sources, he said. Improvement starts at home however, and there have been positive signs the industry is willing to take the mantle. In January, freelance journalists, members of the Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association (MWJA) and staff of PSRD established a Committee for Professional Conduct (CPC) to protect rights of journalists and promote quality journalism. Although slow moving, the CPC formed a committee in August to hold a first ever national level press awards in five categories: news, feature, newsphoto, cartoon and editorial. Nothing has been set yet, but hopefully, with greater freedom, these initiatives will bear more fruit.

Poverty gets new recognition

By Geoffrey Goddard and Sandar Lwin

HE needs of Myanmars poor received unprecedented official recognition during 2011, with President U Thein Sein describing poverty alleviation as a major priority in his inaugural address on March 30 and the government hosting a workshop on the issue in Nay Pyi Taw in May. The Presidents reference to poverty in his inaugural speech was a fundamental step towards tackling the issue, acknowledged an editorial in The Myanmar Times in late November which focused on land use laws. U Thein Sein further addressed the issue in his opening speech at the workshop on rural development and poverty alleviation held in the administrative capital from May 20-22. The workshop is aimed at improving the living conditions for rural people and alleviating poverty by creating economic opportunities for them, U Thein Sein said. He said the government

poverty alleviation strategy. Such a strategy, he said, will be based on what the poor people tell us and insights gained from those that have dealt with povertyrelated issues in the country. The development of such a strategy would also benefit from the experience of Myanmars neighbours and other countries, both developed and developing throughout the world, that have embarked on poverty alleviation measures and programs for many years. Poverty alleviation was also the focus of a forum on the rural economy hosted on December 6 by the Livelihoods and Food Security Trust (LIFT), a US$100 million multi-donor trust fund. In an opening address to the forum, the British ambassador, Mr Andrew Heyn, said its objective was to strengthen linkages among stakeholders,including the private sector and township authorities, in order to boost the rural economy. The forum provided opportunities for representatives from the government, diplomatic community, UN

tween the government and non-government side in the implementation of poverty alleviation tasks. A survey conducted by the ministry and the UN Development Program in 2004-2005 put the national poverty rate at 32 percent, with a 22pc urban rate and 36pc in rural areas. Efforts to alleviate poverty will face challenges, of which one has been identified as the provisions in the 2008 constitution that resulted in the establishment of parliaments in each state and region which enact their own laws. One example concerns the provision of microfinance, one of the eight elements of the action plan, which will need to be implemented under the laws enacted by respective state or region parliaments. While the efforts and determination of the government, UN agencies and non-government organisation to improve the lot of the poor are to be commended, for many at the low end of the socio-economic scale they cannot come soon enough.

Myanmar farmers plant paddy in Twantay, Ayeyawady Region. Pic: AFP

For me, I havent received any help so far; I just hear those voices
would carefully consider ideas and proposals suggested at the workshop, which highlighted ways of improving the livelihoods of farmers, who comprise nearly 70 percent of the countrys population. Among those who presented papers at the workshop was Dr U Myint, the head of the Economic Advisory Unit in the Presidents Office. Dr U Myint stressed the importance of understanding the degree of poverty in Myanmar and of measuring the effectiveness of the governments agricultural policies, particularly as they affect the lives of farmers. He said two issues for an action program for poverty reduction concerned the rice growing sector. The first has to do with ensuring food security for the poor by making sure that there is sufficient rice on the local market that can be bought at prices they can afford, he said. The second is to restore Myanmars traditional role as a major rice exporter in the world which can have a major impact on improving the well-being of the rural population. Dr U Myint said in his paper that any effort to reduce poverty in a systematic and effective way would require a agencies, the private sector and non-government organisations to share views and experiences on ways of reducing poverty. The governments action plan for poverty alleviation includes increasing agricultural, livestock and fisheries production, improving rural productivity and cottage industries, creating microsavings and microcredit enterprises and efforts to strengthen rural cooperatives and environmental conservation. Speakers at the forum included Daw Myat Myat Soe, the director general of the Ministry of National Planning and Development, who said the ministry was preparing an eight-point action plan on poverty alleviation for 2012. Daw Myat Myat Soe said the ministry was negotiating with state and region governments on ways to implement the plan. The forum was followed by reports in state-run newspapers on December 9 that the ministry was working with UN agencies and other non-government organisations on the details of the action plan. The reports quoted the Minister for National Planning and Development, U Tin Naing Thein, as stressing the need for smooth coordination and collaboration be-

The 2011 economy crawls back from early struggles

By Aye Thidar Kyaw and Juliet Shwe Gaung
YANMARS economy in the 2011 calendar year was a case of two halves. The first three months, which were the final three of the 2010-11 fiscal year, benefited from the vast foreign direct investment (FDI) pumped into Myanmar, particularly for energy and infrastructure projects. But after March that FDI stopped flowing, which coincided with the government of President U Thein Sein taking power and beginning to take action on reforming the countrys economy. However, the flow of FDI during the 2010-11 fiscal year, combined with a number of other capital inflows, is still being felt throughout the country in the strength of the kyat against the US dollar. The exchange rate at the start of the year stood at about K900 to the dollar but in August it sunk to a low of about K690, leaving a number of key export industries feeling the burn. The government had to try and stabilise the exchange rate across various sectors, said U Min Ko Oo, secretary of the Myanmar Pulses, Beans and Sesame Seeds Merchants Association. If so much foreign money comes in, we just dont know how to use it all, U Min Ko Oo said. In response, the government cut export taxes twice during the year from 10 percent to 7pc in July, and then to 2pc in August, measures that have provided some relief, exporters said. Trade increased because of the 8pc export tax cut, which allows our exports to be more competitive on international markets, U Min Ko Oo said. Another measure aimed at boosting the dollar was a scheme to encourage owners of older vehicles specifically those at least 40 years old to exchange them for a permit to bring in newer imports, with a significant amount of the

An official at money changer counter explains a customer about the rates in Yangon last month. Pic: Thet Htoo

costs to be paid in dollar or Foreign Exchange Certificates (FEC). The plan was unveiled by the government in September In September, the government also introduced a scheme to exchange cars registered for over 40 years for newer models imported from abroad. Most of the 22,400-plus cars that had older number plate prefixes such as salone, salein and zagwe have been swapped for used cars from Japan. The three-phase plan moved onto zamyinzwae prefixes from November, with nya plates set to follow in December. The outflow of dollars to used car markets in Japan appears to have reduced the supply of greenback in Myanmar and boosted, or at least stabilised, its value to about K800 from September through December. However, the plan may have the possibly unwanted impact of making car ownership unaffordable for many former owners who, lacking the $30,000 or so to import a newer vehicle, sold their car for up to K10 million in the hope of buying a car on the open market. Car prices certainly dropped in the used market, especially for more expensive models but remained relatively steady at the lower end, with few cars available for less than K8 million. Prices of prized newer model Toyota Mark II sedans, which sold for about $3500 in Japan but were worth up to K100 million in Yangon, more than halved in price to about K40 million. U Thaung Win, the secretary of the Myanmar Rice Millers Association, told The Myanmar Times the car import scheme did help to stabilise the exchange rate but predicted exporters would face hardship for the foreseeable future. He said that while the governments reform policies were welcomed, more work needed to be done to make Myanmar competitive in the international market, with particular effort needed to change the attitude of government officials.

Peoples mindsets and attitudes in government offices have to change in line with working on a market-based economy, he said. As an important crop for the Myanmar economy, the government should pay heed to the demand for quality rice on the international market, he said. The low quality rice variety that Myanmar exports, 25pc broken grain ehmeta, is not attractive for buyers, so for trade to grow there needs to be an improvement in the quality of rice exports, he said. U Thaung Win added that exporters should also pay farmers depending on the quality of their product. U Hnin Oo, chairman of the Myanmar Shrimp Association, said the fisheries export industry had suffered a bad year, with some business forced to halt operations and delaying their return to business. Problems have continued in the fisheries sector since the exchange rate fell [below K900]. If the government did not reduce its export tax I fear the whole sector would have stopped, he said. Nevertheless, Ministry of Commerce officials expect total trade for the 2011-2012 fiscal year to reach $15 billion once the sale of natural gas and mining is registered. If true, this will exceed last years figure by $2 billion. The government is confident of this after a record year for FDI in the countrys oil and gas sector in 2010. And in 2011 the government has sought to consolidate its position establish the country as an attractive destination for the industry. Exploration and drilling activity has remained solid throughout the year, with new discoveries and contracts signed. And by the end of the year, the government was able to hold the Myanmar Drilling 2011 Conference and Exhibition on November 29-30, to attract further potential clients, its first since the Myanmar Oil and Gas Summit in 1996.

Cars imported from Japan arrive Yangon last November. Pic: Thet Htoo

Onshore test wells No 1 and 2 in Pahtolon oil well in Magwe and Sagaing regions were found to contain 909 billion cubic feet of natural gas and 7.16 million barrels of condensate. Chinese Sinopec International Petroleum (Myanmar) Co Ltd (SIPC) has begun sinking more test wells in the area this year under production sharing contracts (PSC) reached with the Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise (MOGE) under the Ministry of Energy since 2007. In May, a further 18 onshore blocks were opened for bidding by Ministry of Energy for any foreign companies to invest in. A month later the ministry accepted local companies to participate in the bids. The Minister is currently processing bidders for the recent onshore block bidding round. Operations for the 18 blocks are expected to start in the first quarter of 2012. For offshore, January marked the signing of a PSC contract between the Korea Myanmar Development Co Ltd (KMDC) from South Korea and Singapores Brilliant Oil Corporation Pte Ltd (BOC) for the A-5, A-7 blocks off the Rakhine coast as well as the M-15, M-16 blocks off the coast of Tanintharyi Region. The contracted offshore blocks are undergoing a study period to ascertain commercially viable discoveries of hydrocarbon, after extensive explorations at the blocks. In May, a new offshore drill plot was initiated at the Shwe Pyi Tan (1) at the M-1 offshore block in the Gulf of Mottama. The block was acquired by Rimbunan Petrogas Ltd, a firm registered in the British Virgin Islands along with Singapores UNOG Pte Ltd in a production sharing contract with MOGE signed in 2007. Elsewhere, the sale of gasoline has plagued the government in 2011, battling with a ration system and a rampant black market. After privatising the countrys filling stations in 2010, the government imposed a retail sale price of K2500 a gallon, despite continuing fluctuations on the black market that saw gasoline sold for K3200 in February, a high of K5000 in March and K4500 in November. After initially permitting free sale of gasoline, the government re-imposed a rationing system in order to stem illegal sales and market fluctuations. However, its initial ration book system proved inadequate in the face of the black market, and by September, the government was forced to introduce a system of electronically censored smart cards, which has proved effective so far in curtailing the extensive queues of cars that periodically sprung up around filling stations. In June, the government also moved to privatise the imports of LPG gas in an effort to combat market fluctuations fuelled by illegal trade coming from Thailand. Four companies were permitted to import gas, reducing market volatility, but creating a monopoly among the companies. Business sources across the board say that the new government still needs to push forward with its reform agenda in order to iron out such problems. Nevertheless, after crawling back in the second half of the year, many say that 2012 looks to be more positive for the economy as a whole.

Property market set to come through instability

By Htar Htar Khin

OOKING back on 2011, the property market suffered a tumultuous year. Widely expected to capitalise on the countrys political changes, it ended up buffeted by a number of unexpected economic developments. The significant drop in the dollar exchange rate from April and in September changes to the motor vehicle market forced the property market in Yangon into prolonged stagnation. U Sai Khung Noung, managing director of Sai Khung Noung real estate agency in Tarmwe township, told The Myanmar Times the property market started normally with an expected uptick in demand, before running into trouble. When you look back, demand in early part of the year was not too slow. For my agency, it rose by 20 per cent compared with the same period over the last year, especially for properties in the price range of K50 million to K1 billion in the hottest townships in Yangon, said U Sai Khung Noung. But it then changed significantly in April, right after the start of the new government when people felt that investing in property was the right decision for the future, he said. Despite market acceleration, a number of factors turned the industry on its head.

He said that anticipated market growth was restrained in the normally important second quarter, due mostly to the drop in the dollar rate that distorted prices. The dollar rate nosedived in June, causing the industry no end of difficulties. Major investors dealing in foreign currencies and trading businessmen were the hardest hit. This affected demand in property dramatically. Sales were much slower than the same period last year, he said. Even hot locations like Bahan, Mayangone, Yankin, South Okkalapa and Thingangyun townships proved unattractive at that time. The slump in the property market in most townships significantly reduced potential interest from new clients. The impact shifted buyers conception of purchasing a property as only a second option, U Sai Khung Noung added. New developments in other sectors proved attractive in comparison to the traditional investment in property. In September the government launched a car substitution scheme, subsidising new imports for old models that attracted a flurry of activity. More people ended up investing in the newly imported motor vehicles, making investment in property less exciting, with sales finally slumping to their lowest in August and September, said U Sai Khung

A taxi drives passed the residential areas near Junction Zaw Wa Na in Yangon last month. Pic: Hein Latt Aung

The strongest demand in the last month has come from land plots in Thilawa and Dala areas. This is because buyers are searching for the best investment returns

Noung. The instability not only affected what investors were doing but within the industry smaller agents were hit particularly hard. The situation was hardest for small agents in the industry, with many having to quit find other work, he said. With so much instability challenging the standard model, agents were forced to try alternative avenues, pushing new property markets to drive growth. Demand for high end properties valued at about K2billion on the market fell between June to September. But middle and low value properties dropped even more, said U Khin Maung Aye, owner of Shwe Kan Myay real estate agency in Bahan township. In response, prospective investors have begun to move toward Yangons outlying areas, he said. The strongest demand in the last month has come from land plots in Thilawa and Dala areas. This is

because buyers are searching for the best investment returns. My agency has recorded a 50pc rise in sales in November compared to last year. Thats really amazing considering what has happened in this year, he said. Another positive turn has come from business property interest and more foreign investors, indicating that changes to the political situation will slowly benefit the property market moving into 2012. Our agency has been forced to rely on rentals due to the poor sales market. But the impact of FDI and the car market only having short term potential indicates that demand will return, as we have begun to see from late November, said U Min Min Soe from (Mya) Pan Tha Khin real estate agency in Lanmadaw township. He said he has seen a particular rise in demand for Thilawa industrial zone outside of Yangon, particularly from South Korean clients, giving him hope for the coming year.

The international comm

By Nyunt Win

yanmar has seen a flurry of dignitary visits since the countrys civilian government took seat in March. At first tentative, the international community has relied on the use of dignitary visits as a policy of engagement, being at once symbolic while still maintaining distance from actual commitment. These visits, not only remarkable in their frequency, also highlight how the political process has developed since March through the differing responses each visiting dignitary has offered. Looking at the major visits this year, each offers a glimpse at how many of the concerns Myanmar faces in its transition are being addressed and responded to by the international community.

UN takes the lead

he new civilian governments diplomatic chapter began with a visit by United Nations special envoy to Myanmar, Mr Vijay Nambia, who visited Myanmar in early May. It was a chance for Mr Nambia to express what the international community was looking for from the new government. Arriving in Nay Pyi Taw, Mr Nambia met four out of nine presidential advisors, stating that while the UN recognised the political changes that were taking place in Myanmar, the government needs to do more to convince the international community that reform is taking place. Mr Nambia said the international community was expecting the new civilian government to make progress on political, developmental and humanitarian issues. In all my meetings, I stressed that this [reform process] must include the release of all political prisoners and inclusive dialogue with all segments of society, as well as greater outreach to the international community to ensure that the proposed reforms enjoyed a broad buy-in, the UN envoy said. Only then can there be greater confidence that the efforts undertaken will indeed serve to meet the long-standing needs and aspirations of the people of Myanmar. There is no time to waste if Myanmar is to move forward.

Mr Vijay Nambia

ASEAN paves the way for Myanmar chair

SEAN, more ready and willing to bring Myanmar closer into its fold, proved the first to offer concrete action in response to what it felt were significant moves by the government in providing genuine change. ASEANs current chair, Indonesia, sent its Foreign Minister Marty Natalegawa to assess progress in Myanmar and explore whether the country was in a position to be offered the rotating chair of the regional bloc in 2014. Mr Natalegawa arrived in Myanmar for a three-day visit on October 28 and held discussions with government ministers and other officials in Nay Pyi Taw before travelling to Yangon to meet Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other stakeholders. Although he didnt make a promise regarding the ASEAN chair during the visit, Mr Natalegawa praised the government for taking positive steps, including the release of some prisoners of conscience. Mr Natalegawa also said he was pleased with the governments decision to initiate dialogue with some armed ethnic groups. I only have preliminary views at this stage [but] I get the impression that the changes in Myanmar are significant and Myanmar has begun its own process of reform, he told reporters on October 29. He said he had got a sense that recent changes were irreversible . The visit proved influential in the later decision by ASEAN to accept Myanmars bid to hold the blocs regional chair, despite calls such a move would be premature without more action taken on the previously stated issues of prisoner releases and ethnic ceasefires.

EU talk sanctions
n contrast to the US, the EU has grappled with competing views on Myanmar, despite its symbolic final show of unity. But following the recent trend, Europes more sceptical countries appeared willing to step up engagement. In October, Norway, a long-time supporter of Myanmars opposition, sent its Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr Espen Barth Eide, to the country to meet the Pyithu Hluttaw speaker Thura U Shwe Mann, the Union Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Acknowledging that Myanmar had a long Mr Espen Barth Eide way to go, Mr Eide said Norway hoped that the government and all concerned parties were included in the political process. The wind of opportunity we have now seen in this country is promising and we are working closely with Asian countries, the United States, the European Union and United Nations on how we can help, Mr Eide said. He said it was important for the government to release significant numbers of prisoners and that he hoped for good news on that issue (the government released some 200 prisoners of conscience four days later). Noting that sanctions are more of a punishment and not the best tool for reform, he said the removal of European Union sanctions would come step by step in line with progress taken by Myanmar. Economic sanctions are on the table and should be discussed (after the release of the prisoners), he said. Sanctions are not constructive, he said, adding that he looked forward to the day when they are removed.

Britain commits to development

n another step up from Europe, the British Minister for International Development and senior member of cabinet, Mr Andrew Mitchell, arrived in Myanmar on November 15 to review the UKs aid program and discuss the reform process with members of the government and other stakeholders. Mr Paul Whittingham, head of DFID in Myanmar noted that Mr Mitchells visit was an historic visit the first by a British Minister in decades and the first by a cabinet-level EU Minister since the elections. In Nay Pyi Taw he met President U Thein Sein, speakers of parliament, parliamentarians and senior government officials. In talks he made clear that if political reform continued, Britain would be prepared to increase its role in the countrys development. In March, the British government had announced it would provide US$300 million in aid to Myanmar over the next four years through the United Nations, international and local NGOs and community groups. In Yangon he met Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and leaders of Mr Andrew Mitchell ethnic minority groups. Mr Mitchell highlighted the importance of three issues the release of political prisoners, by-elections and ethnic conflict to ensure confidence. Regarding the need to end armed conflict in Kachin State, Mr Mitchell said: the president must speak for himself but I made the case while I was listening to him and his ministers and obviously I hope that is part of the political development.

Mr Marty Natalegawa

munity responds in kind

FirstofmanyfortheUS The new engagement
uch signs of a thaw in US-Myanmar relations began to show when one of the USs sternest critics and supporters of sanctions against Myanmar, Republican Senator Mr John McCain, was issued a visa after 15 years worth of attempts to do so on my part were rejected. The visit represented a clear sign that both sides were willing to improve relations with more senior meetings arranged. Mr McCain met Vice President Thiha Thura U Tin Aung Myint Oo, speakers of both houses of the parliament, union level ministers, as well as Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, politicians and civil society leaders during his June 1-3 visit. Mr McCain reaffirmed that concrete actions were expected in order to accept that change was really taking place in Myanmar. In what would be a common theme expressed by US dignitaries, Mr McCain said that although the US would not be changing its established policy towards Myanmar immediately, concrete steps taken by the government would be met with reciprocal steps by the US to improve bilateral relations. repre Recognising that the new civilian government repreopportu sents some change from the past, he said that an opportunity for progress needed to be accomplished by concrete steps, such as the unconditional release of all prisoners of conscience, ensuring the safety of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, beginning a democratic process of national reconciliation and abiding by its international obligations to uphold UN Mr John McCain Security Council resolutions against North Korea.

M
Daw Suu Kyi and Mr Joseph Yun

r Nambias visit was followed by the deputy US assistant secretary of state for East Asia and Pacific affairs, Mr Joseph Yun, which would prove the first of numerous visits by American officials. Mr Yuns visit from May 18 to 20 included meetings with senior government officials, opposition figures, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, political parties, NGOs, representatives of ethnic minority groups and members of

the business community. Mr Yun emphasised that his trip was to find common ground in meetings with members of the new government and other stakeholders as well as to further his governments engagement policy toward Myanmar. The visit was seen by many as the first attempt from both sides to rebuild relations between Nay Pyi Taw and Washington.

Prove sceptics wrong:Mitchell

ppointed as the US special representative and policy coordinator for Myanmar in April, Mr Derek Mitchell paid his first visit to Myanmar in early September to help spur growing reform efforts. Mr Mitchells visit came soon after U Thein Seins administration made some significant moves, including a meeting between the president and Daw Aung Mr Derek Mitchell San Suu Kyi, establishing a National Human Rights Commission, a renewed commitment to resolve ethnic conflict and a relative easing of media censorship. While able to encourage these positive developments, Mr Mitchell still emphasised outstanding concerns that have formed the bedrock of US policy toward Myanmar. He raised US concerns on several issues with several senior government officials, including continued hostilities in ethnic minority areas accompanied by reports of serious human rights violations. Mr Mitchell echoed Mr McCains call for Nay Pyi Taw to take concrete action in its pledge to reform. Many within the international community remain sceptical about the governauthori ments commitment to genuine reform and reconciliation, and I urged the authorities to prove the sceptics wrong, Mr Mitchell said. He stressed that resolving these issues would be vital for improving bilateral relations, and the US would respond in kind to genuine and concrete action on the part of Myanmar.

UN special rapporteur welcomed back

n August, the UN special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, Mr Tomas Ojea Quintana, arrived to what he called a somehow different political context. Meeting with Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung Lwin, Home Affairs Minister Lieutenant General Ko Ko, Chief Justice U Tun Tun Oo, Labour Minister U Aung Kyi and four members of the presidential advisory board in Nay Pyi Taw, he found he was able to talk openly and candidly about human rights cases and issues like land mines. This was in marked contrast to his last visit in February 2010 when similar comments were met with a Mr Tomas Ojea Quintana refusal to return to the country. In Yangon, Mr Quintana was able to visit Insein Prison and then met with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Speaking to reporters at the end of his visit on August 25, Mr Quintana said the country was at a key moment in its history, with real opportunities for positive and meaningful developments to improve the human rights situation and bring about a genuine transition to democracy . However, to make this change happen, Mr Quintana reiterated that the new government must go further as there were still serious and ongoing human rights concerns that need to be addressed .

An unexpected guest
ear came to a close, diplomatic activity showed no signs of easing off. On December 1, Myanmar received its most important guest yet. US Secretary of State Mrs Hillary Clinton flew to Nay Pyi Taw the first time a US Secretary of State has visited the country in more than 50 years as President Obama accelerated efforts to engage with Myanmar. During her two day trip, Mrs Clinton met President U Thein Sein, speakers of the parliaments and elective representatives in Nay Pyi Taw before flying to Yangon. Their talks mainly centred on achieving national reconciliation, conditions to lift sanctions, reopening of aid channels and Myanmars relations with North Korea. Mrs Clinton said she saw openings during her three-day trip that give us some grounds for encouragement . In each of my meetings, leaders assured me that progress would continue and broaden. And as it does, the United States will actively support those, both inside and outside of government, who genuinely seek reform, Ms Clinton told reporters Mrs Hillary Clinton in Nay Pyi Taw. In Yangon she also met Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who had welcomed the renewed US engagement policy, which she hoped would help the process of democratisation . In the most positive affirmation by the US of the reform process to date, and a show of willingness to increase involvement, Mrs Clinton concluded her visit by saying that the US was prepared to go further if the reforms maintain momentum . I will once again reiterate to the leaders that the US is prepared to walk this path of reform with you if you choose to keep moving in that direction. Reformers both inside and outside of the government will have our support, and it will increase as we see actions taken that will further the hopes and aspirations of the people for a better future.

Will2012gofurther?
he visit by the US Secretary of State was a significant step up in diplomatic engagement and set the bar for 2012. Immediately after the US announcement of Mrs Clintons visit, UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon, announced he would visit Myanmar as soon as possible to help propel the reform process. And in December, the role of high profile visits continued with Japanese Foreign Minister Koichiro Gemba announcing he will visit Myanmar later this month, while British Foreign Secretary, William Hague, announced plans to travel to Myanmar in January. These indicate that engagement through diplomacy is set to continue into 2012 as the preferred tool by the international community in working toward better relations with Myanmar. Much depends on how the government can achieve reform, but for now it seems the international community is keen to respond in kind.

In 2011 the government targets zero

By Yamon Phu Thit

HE United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDG) are set for 2015 and in 2011, the government claimed that Myanmar is on course to achieve them. This year, the government has been able to make a number of developments and achievements to this end, particularly in HIV/ AIDS work. The government has initiated a National Strategic Plan for HIV/AIDS from 2011 to 2015, with the view to reducing new HIV infections, to provide more ART treatments to patients and to reduce AIDS-related side effects. This plan is intended to support the accomplishment of Myanmars Millennium Development Goals, targeting a reduction in the number of people infected with HIV to less than 5000. Estimated expenditure for the five-year plan is set at US$ 343.6 million, with the first two years costing $111.7 million. The Global Fund has also agreed to contribute $142 million towards the plan. In terms of HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, the Ministry of Health has been cooperating with seven United Nation Organizations, 11 local NGOs and 21 International NGOs. In Myanmar, 46 organisations and NGOs are working on HIV/AIDS projects. HIV/AIDS patients can now receive treatment at Mingalardon Hospital, Thakayta township hospital and 48 State and Region hospitals. 2011 is being considered a game changing year for the sector, said Dr Soe Naing, Social Mobilization Adviser for UNAIDS. For instance, if we use the analogy of a

This photo file shows a kid cries as a nurse injects measles prevention vaccine in Yangon. Pic: Hein Latt Aung

football match between the HIV virus and people, HIV used to defeat people all the time. However, this time people can score goals against HIV. It is very encouraging. Due to concerted efforts between the government and NGOs, HIV infections have been in decline for several years in Myanmar. According to national statistics record in 2009, more than 240,000 people were living with HIV. About 17,000 people were infected with HIV and more than 17,500 people were dying of AIDS a year. And the infection rate of HIV among the highest priority groups sex workers, men

who have sex with men (MSM) and injecting drug users have also been decreasing. The HIV infection rate for sex workers has declined from 33.5 in 2006 to 11.4 percent in 2010, rates among MSM have declined from 29.3 to 11 percent and those among injecting drug users have declined from 42.5 to 28.1 percent World AIDS Day 2011 held on December 1 was celebrated all over the world and also in Myanmar, including United Nations organisations, local and international NGOs, civil society groups, self-help groups and communitybased organizations. The theme for World AIDS Day was Getting

to Zero: zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths. At the ceremony held in Nay Pyi Taw on December 1, Dr Pe Thet Khin, Union Minister for the Ministry of Health, said that although infections are in steady decline, funding and ART treatment are still needed. More than 70,000 HIV patients in Myanmar are still in need of Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) said Dr Sun Gang, country coordinator of UNAIDS. We only provide ART treatment to 30 percent of patients. However, we can see tangible results because we only provided ART to 400 people in 2004, whereas now we can reach 30,000 people. However, in order to provide sufficient medical access across the country, the government still needs to go further in providing sufficient resources, staff and infrastructure, say experts. Vice President Dr Sai Mauk Kham told delegates at the eighth medical conference in Nay Pyi Taw that it is important for the country to increase the number of doctors as the ratio currently stands at 2261 patients to one doctor. Currently there are over 26,000 doctors, over 2,500 dental surgeons, over 25,000 nurses and 287 dental nurses in Myanmar, according to the Ministry of Health. In terms of infrastructure, there are altogether 942 hospitals including 100 hospitals in border areas and 82 township hospitals in 2011. While in Nay Pyi Taw Division, there is one 1000-bed general hospital, one 200-bed hospital, two 100-bed hospitals, six 50-bed hospitals, six regional hospitals. And 300-bed hospital and four 500-bed special hospitals are under construction.

Comedy enjoys a comeback

By Zon Pann Pwint
comedian cracks a joke at a fundraising show at Thuwunna Stadium on December 4. I see a large crowd in the distance. What is it they are donating to? Ah, the Buddha tooth relic brought here to pay homage to. How is it able to make its way round, the roads are so bad? Dont worry, repairs are being done to roads it will pass on. Director Maung Myo Min who put on the show told The Myanmar Times:that kind of joke would have been censored a year ago. He said he was able to let the performers

tell such jokes that he had previously said they had to cut from their acts. Audiences crave the humorous criticism told by comics. It neednt be very severe, they just want to listen to light-hearted jokes that point out the failings of society, economics and politics without bias, he said. Comedy in Myanmar is making a comeback after a year of gradual relaxation of censorship rules, indicating a level of expression is once again permitted. This was no more exemplified than the release of Ko Thura, more famously known as comedian Zaganar, part of a prisoner amnesty on October 12. Zarganar is renowned for his humorous social commentary as well as social work, and

since his release continued such activities, such as arranging the film festival The Art of Freedom along with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, as well as offering donations to other prisoners of conscience still in jail. Such freedom is a good thing, said Maung Myo Min. And for comedy, it allows it to be more natural and funnier, he said. Comedians might forget the jokes they learn off by heart before the performance, so they need to rely on wit during the show that doesnt relate to what was on the text. He said that they are given more freedom to tell jokes with social commentary, but the censorship board is still wary when they perform a comic show. Although we are now given permission to tell jokes that dont drag someones name or society through the mud, members of the censorship board still keep an eye on our performances, he said. They take a note of jokes that arent on the script we gave them. They want to censor it as they are quite conservative and still suspicious of some jokes that include social and economic commentary. It shows that they still need to change their approach which they have been practicing for many years, he said. Myittar, a famous comedian told The Myanmar Times that comedy as social commentary should be permitted if used appropriately as it only helps. Fair commentary on political, social and economic inequality should be allowed to some extent if they dont damage somebody or some societys reputation, he said. For example, humour points out a fault or weakness in a system to get rid of any imperfections. If the humour we make is objective and not prejudiced, then the joke should be allowed, Myittar said. In fact, Myanmar has an old history of comical critique, said Maung Myo Min. Comics existed under the monarchy and

Comedian Zaganar at Yangon Airport often being released from Myitkyina Prison last October.

were given freedom to present critiques of the kings works, policy and rule etc, through comic shows. They cracked jokes lightly making people laugh without decrying anyone seriously. No one took their critique too seriously, Maung Myo Min said. But with colonial rule, this tradition was suppressed. In 1880s, there was strict restriction on cracking jokes freedom. Comedians dared not even make constructive criticism on failing among social and economy, he said. After independence, well-known comics such U Palata, U San Ma Tu and Thaw Tar were again able to joke about the economic, social and political situation of the day. Maung Myo Min and Myittar both said they would like to see the tradition of than chat (a musical form of satire performed during Thingyan festival) revived. Disallowed in the 1980s, a group of people stand on a decorated car perform satirical songs on social, economic and political issues. I hope than chat will appear this year for Thingyan. Successful comics and actors participated in than chat before they became popular on TV so I believe more comic shows will be held in the future, said Maung Myo Min.

Myanmar tourism enters a new era

By Zaw Win Than

HE new governments reforms have raised prospects of change not only for politics but also for the tourism industry in Myanmar. Travel industry experts in Yangon believe that Myanmar tourism is entering a new era in 2011. U Phyoe Wai Yar Zar, secretary of the Myanmar Marketing Committee (MMC) as well as the managing director of All Asia Exclusive Travel in Yangon said the industry was in good spirits and anticipating an increase of at least 20-25 per cent in the 2011-12 fiscal year, ending March 31. Ministry of Hotels and Tourism statistics for international tourist arrivals between January and August this year hit 221,190, representing an increase of 20.39 pc from the same period in 2010. Asian countries will continue to supply the majority of visitors, but many expect strong growth from Western markets because of the countrys improving international image. We expect a shift in the market for 2012. There will be a significant increase from the United Kingdom, Scandinavia, the United States and Australia from 2012 onwards, said said Daw May Myat Mon Win. Also the commercial side will increase along with the opening of the Myanmar economy. Major destinations such as Bagan, Inle and Ngapali will benefit as well as Yangon, being the key commercial hub, will benefit from business travellers and MICE business, she said. Most visitors to Myanmar from January to August in 2011 about 148,022, or 66.92 pc of the total were from Asian countries: 40,462 from Thailand, the largest single group; 23,020 from China; 14,798 from South Korea and 12,793 from Japan. A total of 49,090 tourists from European countries visited Myanmar from January to August, representing over 22.19 pc of total arrivals.The largest group of European visitors was from France, with 11,442 visitors, followed by Germany with 6917 visitors and Italy with 6291 visitors. Independent travellers, known in the industry as Foreign Independent Travellers (FIT), made up the majority of the increase, with arrivals jumping 28.92 pc to 133,585, compared to the 103,617 recorded for the same period in 2010. But only 7707 of 221,190 visitors who came to the country between January 1 to August 31 were on group packages, down more than 49 pc on the same period last year. There were more modest rises among travellers with business visas and social visas, at 40.76 pc and 25.84 pc respectively. As travel boycotts lift, tourist numbers are expected to rise somewhere in the region of 30 percent in 2012, following a similar increase in 2010-2011, industry sources said. I noticed some improvement after the general election on November [2010], the release of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and [the transfer of power to a] new government in March this year, said Daw Su Su Tin, managing director of Exotissimo Travel in Yangon. The Myanmar government is also keen to encourage both foreign and local investment in hotel and tourism sector as it can create job opportunities without significant environmental damage. The Myanmar Investment Commission agreed to allow Vietnam investors to build a hotel in the former Ministry of Industry (1)

Tourists watch sun set in Bagan. Pic: Kaung Htet

near Sedona Hotel on Kabar Aye Pagoda road, according U Soe Thein, the Chairman of (MIC) and Minister of Industry, at a conference held in Nay Pyi Taw on November 28. He also said that investors from Japan, South Korea, Singapore and India have shown interest in investing in Myanmar, adding that foreign investments will rise significantly in the next six months. Singapore currently tops foreign investment in Myanmars hotel sector, followed by Thailand and Japan. Preparations are also under way for accommodating foreign guests arriving for the 27th Southeast Asian Games 2013 hosted by Myanmar. The government is anticipating launching over 50 hotels across the country over the next two years. Myanmar currently owns 22 foreign-invested hotels, 9 government and 678 private hotels. There are 11 hotel zones in regions where visitors mainly travel, and there are plans to extend these ahead of time. However, experts worry that this will not be enough, potentially pushing up prices. In 2012, hotels will surely manage to achieve higher Average Daily Room (ADR) and Revenue Per Available Room (REVPAR). I feel the increase will not be less than 25 pc for 2011, said Daw May Myat Mon Win. That means, the rates will definitely go up to cater the increase in demand, she said. But the sector is beginning to address its shortfalls. The Ministry of Hotels and Tourism together with private bodies such as the Myanmar Tourism Board (MTB), Myanmar Marketing Committee (MMC), Union of Myanmar Travel Association (UMTA) and Myanmar Hotelier Association (MHA) have committed to combining resources. The countrys first international travel trade event was hosted in Myanmars ancient capital city of Bagan from November 26 to 29. At the opening ceremony, U Htay Aung, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism and Mr Martin Craigs, Chief Executive Officer of Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) announced the formation of the PATA Myanmar Chapter. The Chapter is to be led by Chairman U Aung Zaw Win, and executive committee members drawn from travel industry members from both private and public sectors. During the GMS, PATA also submitted a summary report to the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism with a view to PATA helping Myanmar create a Tourism Master Plan. Delegates invited from many parts of the world joined the debate to find the best path for tourism development in Myanmar. People power, balance, youth involvement, and technology were all mentioned numerous times. Meanwhile, Myanmars growing airline sector is also reaping the benefits of a resurgent travel industry after three consecutively lacklustre years. Compared to 2010, where an airline company, Yangon Airways, was grounded, 2011 has

seen a reverse; with growing tourist numbers, airlines have been able to expand new routes, new airlines opened, and even Yangon Airways permitted to run again. The national carrier, Myanmar Airways International (MAI), took 20 pc market share on the Yangon-Bangkok-Yangon route, competing with Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways and Air Asia (Bangkok). MAIs share of the Yangon-Singapore-Yangon route was 33 pc, flying alongside Silk Air. And the Yangon-Kuala Lumpur-Yangon route is at 52 pc. And this year MAI has been able to increase its presence regionally, despite an increase in competition from foreign airlines and low cost carriers. On February 23, the company launched a service between Yangon and Siem Reap in

Cambodia and on March 3 launched another service between Yangon and Guangzhou in southern China. The airline also launched a flight to the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, from November 2 this year. The airline intends to open flights to Jakarta and New Delhi, and has future plans to fly to Tokyo, Seoul, Dubai, Doha and Bali further down the line. To deal with the growing airline industry, a spokesperson from the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) said that Yangon International Airports capacity would increase by 40 pc when a planned expansion is completed. The project aims to increase the airports capacity from 2.7 million to 3.8 million passengers a year.

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Storms and floods cause havoc and disaster in 2011

By Aye Sapay Phyu
011 was hit by series of unusual weather events, wetter than usual situations that resulted in flooding and damage to agriculture in many parts of the country. The impact of the moderate to strong La Nina in mid of 2010 meant that the country suffered wetter and colder conditions in 2011 through to October. A series of new record low temperatures were recorded in March as the country normally heads into summer. Such continuing cold weather and unseasonal rains proved detrimental for Myanmars agriculture sector, with summer paddy crops and beans and pulses particularly

damaged, affecting production. An official from the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said the situation was unprecedented since records began in 1948. Temperatures across the country dropped to their lowest on record on March 17, between 9 and 18 degrees Celsius lower than average, except for Tanintharyi Division, Chin state and Rakhine state, he said. We havent seen such cold weather that we have to wear warm clothes. Temperatures normally remain steady in March each year.The maximum difference has been about five to six degrees Celsius. This is the first time a significant temperature decrease in March in my 20 years of service.

March also disaster strike as 16,000 fishermen from Ayeyarwaddy region, Mon state and Tanintharyi region, working on prawn fishing rafts near Coco Island between the Gulf of Martaban and Bay of Bengal, were swept away in an unseasonal storm. It took all year for survivors to return home, with the latest 142, rescued by the Indian Navy, arriving in late November. According to the Myanmar Fisheries Federation, 25 fishermen have been confirmed dead and 475 are still missing. Survivors estimated that wind speed was as high as 130 kilometers (80 miles) an hour. Despite the storm that resulted in disaster for the several thousand fishermen, there has been no recorded cyclone

A resident looks at the broken bridge in Pakokku in Central Myanmar last October. Pic: Kaung Htet

hitting Myanmar this year. However, the country did receive heavier rainfall during the monsoon season, between June and October. A total of 23 records for rainfall were broken across the country. In Taungup,

Rakhine State, the countrys heaviest rainfall reached 29.1 inches in 12 hours, according to meteorologists. Such heavy rain led to flooding in towns and farmland, as well as causing landslides in hilly regions that

damaged rural infrastructure, including roads and bridges. Several rivers in the country burst their banks in the monsoon season that caused frequent flooding in riverside towns such as Hinthada, Zalun, Nga Thaing Chaung, Mawlaik, Kalewa, Monywa, Myitnge, Hpa-an, Bago, Taungoo and Madauk station. Thousands of people were evacuated to relief camps in floods that affected Bago, Hpaan, Taungoo and Hinthada. Bago river reached its highest flood level of 960 cm in 47 years on August 11, while Thanlwin river in Hpa-an, Kayin state recorded 925 cm on August 5, the second highest river level since 1966. Ngawun in Nga Thaing Chaung topped its danger level for 51 days from July and flooding in Thanlwin in Hpaan in August took 26 days. Also in August, Sittong river flooded Madauk, Bago region, lasting for 67 days. Severe flash floods also occurred in Magway region on October 19 and 20, caused storms crossing the border with Bangladesh. According to figures from the Department of Agricultural Planning, about 97,000 acres of crops were destroyed by floods this year. A flash flood situation report released by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on November 25 stated that 161 people have been recorded dead or missing and 2335 out of 9523 houses destroyed, according to government figures. Nearly 30,000 people in the four worst-affected townships of Myaing, Pauk, Pakokku and Seikphyu in Magway region were affected. And over 5378 acres of cropland and seven bridges were also damaged. The Myanmar Agriculture Service of Magway Region has identified urgent support for seed crops, onion and chick peas is needed, as well as the replacement of agricultural equipment and drowned animals in all affected townships.

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Sports lurch from disaster to promise

By Aung Si Hein
FTER an eventful year for Myanmar sports, lurching from disaster to building for the future, things look set to get brighter as Myanmar targets success when hosting the SEA Games in 2013. The countrys football industry looked set solid development early on in the year, as the Myanmar Football Federation (MFF) president, U Zaw Zaw, welcomed FIFA chairman, Sepp Blatter to inaugurate the Mandalay Football Acadamy on March 15, calling it an historic moment for the sport. FIFA provided US$400 000 toward the Mandalay Football Academy and pledged further assistance to MFF in developing greater football infrastructure in the country. Affirming the potential for the sport in Myanmar, Sepp Blatter said he was positive about the future for football here. I see the talents are here. Football now in Myanmar is at a good standard and it will be better to come. Since Myanmar was the Asian Champion in 1967, it will play a very active role in the development of football in Asia, he said. But faced with poor existing infrastructure, MFF has been forced to address current problems as well as expand the sport. After a series of U-19 games struggled on waterlogged pitches due to heavy rains, MFF installed sand barriers and drainage pipes in all youth training centres in Yangon. Alongside infrastructural changes MFF launched workshops to encourage more people and professions to contribute to the sports growth. At a workshop in Naypyidaw on 18-19 October participants discussed establishing a professional league and a number of ways to develop Myanmar football in the long run. More recently a second football academy was set up in Pathein, Ayeyarwady Division, in November, promoting both the sport and providing a means of development support in the cyclone Nargis hit region. However, despite such developments, the sport was rocked by the fateful World Cup qualifying match against Oman on July 28. Seemingly incensed by decisions made by the officials, Myanmar fans began throwing bottles, slippers and even stones at the Omani players and match officials. Unable to calm the crowd, the match was ended prematurely, dumping the team out of the competition, and with FIFA later disqualifying Myanmar from participating in the 2018 World Cup. The Myanmar Football Federation (MFF) lodged an appeal against the ban claiming no history of misconduct. After a lengthy consideration process, in November FIFA

Strikers from Ayeyawady and Yangon teams tackle in the final match of Myanmar National League Championship in Yangon last September. Pic: Thet Htoo

finally showed leniency by allowing Myanmar re-entry for 2018, but upheld its ban on hosting international games. After a narrow escape, it is possible to look back on other successes achieved in Myanmar football this year. Internationally, the Myanmar U-21 team brought home the BIDC cup from Cambodia on 17 October while the Myanmar U-23 team secured third place bronze at the 26th South East Asian Games in Indonesia after defeating Vietnam 4-1. The win felt especially sweet after Myanmar had received a 5-0 hiding from Vietnam during the VFF cup prior to the SEA Games. At home, Yangon United FC were crowned

Myanmar National League champions, beating second placed Ayeyarwady United FC in the decisive last match of the season on 28 September. Yangon United FC then went on to claim the double with the MFF cup, defeating Naypyidaw FC 5-0 on October 4. The MNL also welcomed a newcomer to its ranks in Rakhapura United FC, swelling the league to 12 teams for its third year. However, early optimism gave way to internal crisis for Rackapura as allegations whirled that the club failed to pay its players and coaches in June and July. MFF set about establishing an enquiry and ultimately forced the club to give joint owner U Zaw Min Thein sole responsibility for the club.

This year, a new football club Rakhapura was added to the eleven-team Myanmar National League. The MNL is set to grow again for 2012 after Chin United FC and Mawyawady FC received a licence to establish. Aiming to learn the lessons of Rakhapura, the new FC Chin United owner, Dr James Lian Sai, said he will be fully involved in the teams finances and make use of support from MFF to keep the club finances running smoothly. Aside from football, the countrys other sports were busy working toward the 26th SEA Games held in Indonesia in November. Reports of inadequate funding and poor infrastructure dampened the preparations, but come the day Myanmar was willing to give its all. During the games however, despite ending with a respectable haul of 16 golds, 27 silvers, and 37 bronzes medals, placing the country 7th on the medals table, Myanmar walked away from the games with two lasting memories in stark contrast to each other. Myanmars rowing team outperformed everyone else, securing ten of the countrys 16 gold medals. It was no ordinary achievement given the struggles faced in preparation, as the Myanmar Rowing Federation almost failed to find enough members to field a full squad. But the success of the team even led to the countrys traditional dragon boat coach, U Win Pay, being approached by Thailand, Philippines and Malaysian officials to coach their teams. On the other side, the Myanmar two-man Sepaktakraw team ended its strong run to the finals in the ignominy of defeat to Indonesia. Fancying themselves favourites, the secretary of Myanmar Sepaktakraw Federation U Kyaw Zin Moe felt his team should have pocketed two gold medals if it werent for repeatedly biased judgment calls from the match referees. The images of U Kyaw Zin storming the pitch and holding up six fingers to the referees to point out that they wrongly gave six points to the home team, before the players walked off in protest overshadowed the scintillating play of the match. Indonesia walked away close winners to a fuming Myanmar team. But the hosts had their own troubles for the games as criticism of their handling of the event reached boiling point after football fans stampeded before the final match between Indonesia and Malaysia, leaving one person dead and several injured. This even prompted Myanmars chef-de-mission to vow his country will do a better job when they host the next Games in 2013. We wait in anticipation.