THE NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR
( Tuesday,    28 Marchl 2000)

*******************************************************************

1. Over 750 billion kyats spent for development of border areas and national races in time of Tatmadaw Government
2. Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe and Wife Daw KyaingKyaing host Armed Forces Day reception and dinner
3. Commander-in Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe addresses 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day
4. Armed Forces Day Literary and Art competitions held in recognition of important role of literature and art
5. Prizes presented to best column, company and unit in 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade
6. Prizes presented to winners in Armed Forces Day Military Code of Conduct and Extempore Talks Competition
7. Commander presents prizes to special prize winners
8. Military attaches pay tribute to the Fallen Heroes
9. 31 Monyo NLD members resign of own accord
10. WEATHER

(1) Over 750 billion kyats spent for development of border areas and national races in time of Tatmadaw Government,  pessimists, depending on foreigners, are jealous of Tatmadaw's efforts to achieve all-round development of the country Today, "the goal is shining and the way is clear" for Union of  Myanmar

YANGON, 27 March - Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe delivered an address at the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade in the Resistance Park on U Wisara Road here today.

The following is a translation of the address.

Comrades,

Today is the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day, a day significant for our nation and the Tatmadaw. It has been 55 years since our Tatmadaw, together with the people, waged the Resistance. On such a significant day, I will tell you., in all seriousness, what has to be told.

Comrades,

The attributes of our Tatmadaw and the essence of how it was formed are intertwined. Our Tatmadaw  was formed at the start with patriotic politicians for the realization of the national political objective of  wresting the nation free from foreign subjugation. Having transited from the life of national politician to  that of the Tatmadawman, our Tatmadaw is a patriotic Tatmadaw born of national politics.

Comrades,

The Tatmadaw born of national politics faced attempts at breaking up many times. Those who want to  enslave us, those who want to push us into the sphere of influence of others and those who ignore the  interest of our nation do not want to see our Tatmadaw strong at all. They are making attempts to  weaken and break up the Tatmadaw. History provides evidence of our Tatmadaw's having faced these
dangers.

As the Burma Independence Army marched into Myanmar Naingngan, the citizens joined the various  columns in a body, and the Tatmadaw's strength rose within a short time to well past 50,000.

After occupying the entire Myanmar Naingngan, the fascist authorities felt concerned and frightened at  the growing strength of the Burma Independence Army and disbanded it on the excuse that a  systematic Tatmadaw needed to be formed.

Although the fascist authorities wanted to totally disband the Burma Independence Army, they were  afraid there might be a groundswell opposition by Tatmadawmen and the entire citizenry whose  revolutionary fervour was on the rise, and reorganized it as the Burma Defence Army, cutting the  original strength exceeding 50,000 down to a mere 3,000.

The fascist authorities changed the name of the Burma Defence Army to Burma National Army on 15  September 1943. Although the name and insignias were changed, the Tatmadaw remained a Tatmadaw  under the fascists. Hence, the historic Resistance was waged on 27 March 1945 by the patriotic Bama  Tatmadaw with its own unique character and independent stance.

When the British colonialists returned they had no liking at all for the patriotic Bama Tatmadaw which  had not only collaborated with and fought alongside the Japanese but had also carried in the fore the  call for independence. Therefore, according to the Kandy Agreement, only 200 officers, over 5,000  soldiers and some reservists were allowed to merge into the Burma Army which the British had already  formed. That also was a limit imposed because they were concerned the Tatmadaw might grow in
strength.

There were also conspiracies to disband the Tatmadaw and replace it with pocket armies in the post- Independence period in the wake of the 1958 political splits.

Today also, pessimists, depending on foreigners, are jealous of our Tatmadaw's efforts to achieve all-round development of the country and are doing their utmost to weaken and break up the Tatmadaw in the belief that only when the Tatmadaw breaks up will they be able to grab power. Learning from the four crises we have encountered in history, we need always to be vigilant.

Comrades,

Looking back at the history of the Tatmadaw, we will find that those who once hailed independence first, independence second, independence third, drew blood from their arms and drank it in allegiance as comrades who shared blood had differences of belief when they were possessed by party politics and some among the blood-sharing comrades fought one another, and you will find them ending up in disgrace in history. As the Tatmadaw is an organization which must be everlasting, there cannot be
differences of belief. The Tatmadaw must be one with the people and must join hands with all governments that emerge. As governments differ in belief and nature, there can be further disunity if the Tatmadaw keeps changing along with party politics. A nation in disunity, I want to tell you, will be weakened and incapable of maintaining independence and sovereignty.

Comrades,

Just as the nation had to strive with much difficulty to regain independence, it also had to face four dangerous periods in safeguarding independence and sovereignty when it seemed like the Union would disintegrate.

The first crisis that was encountered was in 194&-49 post- Independence period when the danger of internal multi-coloured insurgency emerged. Because of the narrow-minded racialist insurgents spawned by colonialist divisive machinations in the period under servitude and the multi- coloured insurgents spawned by different ideological beliefs during the period of freedom struggle, the nation faced near-
disintegration. Loyal Tatmadawmen, together with the citizens imbued with Union Spirit, had to fight back to bring peace to the entire nation. At the same time, there was foreign incursion and our Tatmadaw without knowing when to rest, had to incessantly discharge national defence duties.

The second crisis was the danger posed by political splits in 1958. during that period. , squabbles occurred h the party in power to the point of endangering the nation. Some political groups tried to covertly regroup and arm pocket armies. Some tied to From alliances with underground insurgents. The nation again faced the danger of disintegration and a bloodbath loomed. Because of the splits in the political parties, there was disunity among the people and the Tatmadaw had to assume the role of
Caretaker Government and had to work within a short time to restabilize the situation.

The third crisis came in l962. Some narrow-minded racialist elements, taking advantage of the flaws in the Constitution drawn up in 1947 to suit the liking of the colonialists, tried to secede. The government of the party power was unable to control the situation that pushed the Union toward near-disintegration. Therefore, on 2 March 1962, the Tatmadaw had to assume all duties of State and save the Union from the danger of disintegration.

The fourth crisis occurred 1988. Because of the aboveground and underground leftists and rightists, internal and external influences, the State administrative machinery ground to a stop and the nation was close to collapse. When sovereignty was about to be lost the Tatmadaw unavoidably had to step in and take up the duties of State.

As you see for yourself, our Tatmadaw, from the time the nation verged close to disintegration in 1988 till today, has been striving with goodwill, building the nation to be stable, peaceful, modern and developed see that because our Tatmadaw, while taking up the duties of the State temporarily has been striving unitedly with the people and the government the nation has developed in the short term.

Comrades,

We were able to west ourselves fee from the hands of the colonialists due to the Union Spirit forged together by all our Union-born nationals. The independence and sovereignty regained because of Union Spirit will take a different shape and be lost again it disintegrates. Union Spirit is the spirit that comes with the desire of all Union nationals to live together "eggs not broken, nest not disturbed", in weal or woe together, the singularly united spirit of nationalism. From time immemorial, all nationals have lived together eternally in the spirit of nationalism.

You will find that the history of the Union of Myanmar is intertwined with the unity of all Union nationals. When our nationals were united, our Union of Myanmar was strong and prestigious. When unity was weak, the nation's security, economy and social conditions ebbed as we have experienced.

Comrades,

In our Tatmadaw, various nationals have worked together in the spirit of comradeship for a long time, sacrificing our lives. The love, attachment and loyalty that national Tatmadawmen mutually hold for each other is due to the strong Union Spirit within the Tatmadaw. We must enhance the dynamism of Union Spirit throughout the nation.

Therefore, overtures were made for Union nationals to come into the legal fold and work together for regional development, and, to date, 17 armed groups and many smaller groups who have true goodwill toward the nation and the national people are working together with the Tatmadaw for regional development.

Our Tatmadawmen, together with the national people have been striving for providing equitable political, economic and social opportunities for all nationals. In our government's time, over 750 billion kyats have been spent for development of border areas and national races and you, Comrades, have witnessed the surprising economic and social development of the States and border areas which and hitherto remained backward in a short period. These are the immediate benefits of Union Spirit.

I would like to say that I hope some armed groups which still remain in the jungles will understand the objective of national reconsolidation and, like the 17 groups and smaller groups which have true goodwill for the national people, will quickly join hands with the Tatmadaw.

Comrades,

Today, although we should feel proud and happy about development in the border areas which have seen peace; we find that in the small number of areas where law and order still does not prevail, development endeavours have not made as much headway as expected. In national development, there must be proportionate development everywhere. Therefore, for proportionate development of all States and Divisions, roads and bridges, irrigations works and dams, hospitals, universities, colleges, schools, mills and factories are being built throughout the nation. We are showing what we can do through practical work, not words. To cite an example, what had been a dream the building of the Yangon-Sittway Union Highway has been made possible, which is proof of the great goodwill of the government. Similarly, you will find development projects in the States and Divisions, wherever you may point your finger. As these grow throughout the land, the nation's capability will be further enhanced and strengthened.

Comrades,

To gain national capability, peace within the nation must be sought till it is won. As peace is essential for the interest of the people, the regional peoples very much desire it. Once the nation is rid of the narrow racialist beliefs which are the legacy of the colonialists, we will be rid of the danger of the Union disintegrating and we will attain total peace. Therefore, it is essential that you totally accept and believe in Our Three Main National Causes, which are

1. Non-disintegration of the Union

2. Non-disintegration of National solidarity, and

3. Perpetuation of sovereignty.

Our Three Main National Causes are the nation's correct solution that is witness to the irrefutable lessons provided by history Just as it is the policy which will bring benefits to the entire nationals, it is also nationalism which safeguards the nationals. It has an accurate and firm objective and is also the policy which must be put to practical use without fail under current conditions. I want to tell you to accept Our Three Main National Causes in all seriousness in order to see that Myanmar Naingngan is endowed with good fortune in the future.

Comrades,

To build our Tatmadaw to be a strong, capable and modern Tatmadaw has become a duty which must be discharged without fail in order to prepetually uphold Our Three Main National Causes.

Our Tatmadaw's strength must be structured until it is sufficient to totally protect our sovereignty over
land, water and air. Moreover we, Tatmadawmen, must to carry through as heritage, as spiritual
strength, the twelve Noble Traditions of the Tatmadaw, which are:

(1 ) A Patriotic Tatmadaw.

(2) A Disciplined Tatmadaw.

(3) A loyal Tatmadaw.

(4) A united Tatmadaw.

(S) An efficient Tatmadaw.

(6) A Tatmadaw which makes heroic sacrifices.

(7) A Tatmadaw which does not seek personal gain.

(8) A Tatmadaw of noble spirit and high morale.

(9) A Tatmadaw which possesses courage to overcome obstacles.

(10) A Tatmadaw which can endure hardship

(11 ) A tenacious and persevering Tatmadaw.

(12)A Tatmadaw which perpetually upholds Our Three Main National Causes.

To carry through these twelve Noble Traditions, the Four Structuring Programmes have also been laid
down.

Comrades,

There are two components physical and psychological in structuring through training for our Tatmadaw to be modernized. The aim of the entire training is "From quantity to quality". Endurance, know-how and confidence must be imparted through physical training. Norms have already been laid down concerning endurance. As regards know-how, steps are being taken so that science and technology are instilled
according to rank. Only when lessons are given in training on how to encounter, in modern warfare, with whatever resources available, can there be confidence and self-reliance.

Training must be given, in the psychological aspect, for Our Three Main National Causes, our national policy, to be accepted with conviction. Love for our people will only be blind love without belief and concept. Blind patriotism can also be a danger for the country. That is why true patriotism must be built up through psychological training.

In structuring our units through administration, it is essential to be proficient in planning associated with modern and sophisticated science and technology. Our administration must be able to keep abreast with modern military principles. Good administration is an advantage. That is why administrative planning must be foreseen and planned in conformity with the natural conditions of our country.

Comrades,

Welfare, one of the structuring tasks, has emerged from family spirit as ours is a patriotic Tatmadaw. Although ranks have been demarcated because of the need to control and command for the accomplishment of the aims and tasks within the Tatmadaw, the spirit that exists is family spirit. Family spirit is the spirit of battalions and units which take responsibility for the facilitation of food, clothing and shelter requirements within the family. Therefore, I wish to tell you, Comrades, that welfare by which our soldiers, their wives and their families may not be wanting in food, clothing and shelter has been laid down as a 'must'.

We are Tatmadawmen who, in dutifully discharging assigned duties, have to forego family life by nearly always living apart from our wives and children. Besides being tough and tedious, the life of a serviceman is one where not only limb but also life has to be sacrificed. Thus, the need to earnestly and systematically cater to the welfare of families of Tatmadawmen through agriculture, livestock breeding and production, must be addressed.

Comrade,

We must, first of all, build up good morale in trying to improve our unit Lessons can be learnt from some wars in the world where, due to lack of the will to fight modern weapons were abandoned and defeat suffered although fully equipped with the most modern weapons. Thus, we must nature in our Tatmadawmen the belief and concept spirit to zealously fight on till only the hull is left, the spirit to fight on whatever the outcome and the spirit to keep up the traditions of the Tatmadaw even at the cost of
one's life.

Moreover, in military principles, psychological warfare is given top priority as a special operation. Being able to demoralize and destroy the enemy without actually fighting them rather than becoming victorious after fighting them in battle is the merit of psychological warfare. In the world today, unscrupulous psychological warfare is being massively waged Tatmadawmen to be imbued with the spirit to fight, to understand the psychological warfare machinations of the opposing groups and to be able to shield off the enemy's thrust of false propaganda, inservice information and educational projects
must be carried out.

Comrades,

If the four structuring tasks are seriously carried out, every unit, every Tatmadawmen will be imbued with the five basic attributes - morale, discipline, loyalty, unity and the Three Capabilities. Moreover, I would like to urge every Tatmadawman to solemnly abide by the Soldier's Code of Conduct comprising of 60 articles: These 60 articles are the virtue of our Tatmadawmen.

Comrades,

The duty to defend our country is the duty of every citizen by birth. The entire people must, together with the Tatmadaw, defend our country. The Myanmar Police Force, the Myanmar Fire Brigade and the Myanmar Red Cross are reserve forces and have special relationship. They are already trained brother organizations which, as and when the need arises, will defend the country together with the Tatmadaw. I wish to say that since these organizations have good historical backgrounds, are free from party politics
and have been in unity, they are good sons of the country who can be relied upon for the national cause.

Comrades,

The Union Solidarity and Development Association which will serve the interests of the country is formed with today's youths and is an organization, the foremost task of which is to see to the benefit of the people. Six resolutions were laid down at the mass meeting held in Bagan, ushering in the 21 century, on I January 2000. As these six resolutions were aimed at and concretely laid down for the well-being of every citizen, I would like to urge you, Comrades. to implement them.

Comrades,

Today, "the goal is shining and the way is clear " for our Union of Myanmar. We cannot close our eyes to actual conditions and wage a resolution. The difference between revolution and insurgency need to be understood. Rebelling in the name of revolution without national-need is pure insurrection. Some organizations, without considering national interest are indulging in subversion just because things are
not to their taste or because of a little difference. Opposition comprises of competition and rivalry. I wish to tell you that although the idea of opposition includes difference. not every difference is opposed. What is intentionally done with a narrow outlook without considering national interest will lead to undesirable consequences. Whoever, with narrow outlook. disturbs the stability and hinders the development of the nation must be eliminated as the common enemy together with the people.

Comrades,

In conclusion, I would like to say that the three main duties of our Tatmadaw are

(1) To defend the State,

(2) To train, and

(3) To perpetually serve the interest of the People.

The essence of these duties is to perpetually serve the interest of the state and the people. The four objectives of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade are

-To strive for promotion and propagation of the Union Spirit;

-To strive together with the people for emergence of a peaceful, tranquil, modern and developed nation;

-To strive together with the people to crush all internal and external destructive elements who are disturbing and destroying the stability and development office nation as the common enemy;

-To build a modern Tatmadaw of high qualification and calibre to be able to safeguard Our Three Main National Causes.

As these objectives have been laid down with the aim for our Tatmadaw to serve the interest of the people in accord with the requirement of the country and historical need, I urge you, Comrades, to implement them to the best of your ability and to strive vigorously to make our Tatmadaw strong, capable and modern for our nation to be able to rely on it forever.

With this, I conclude.

Excerpts from Senior General Than Shwe's address

-History of the Union of Myanmar is intertwined with the unity of all Union nationals.

-In our government's time, over 750 billion kyats have been spent for development of border area and national races.

-For proportionate development of all States and Divisions, roads and bridges, irrigation works and dams, hospitals, universities, colleges, schools, mills and factories are being built throughout the nation.

-Our Three Main National Causes are the nation's correct solution that is witness to the irrefutable lessons provided by history.

-To build our Tatmadaw to be a strong, capable and modern Tatmadaw has become a duty which must be discharged without fail in order to perpetually uphold Our Three Main National Causes.

-Without belief and concept love for our people will only be blind love.

-Blind patriotism can also be a danger to the country.

-Six resolutions laid down at the mass meeting held in Bagan, ushering in the 21st century are for well-being of every citizen.

---

(2) Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Senior General Than Shwe and Wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing host Armed Forces Day reception and dinner

YANGON, 27 March - Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing hosted reception and dinner in commemoration of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day at Zaya Thiri Beikman on Konmyinttha of Yangon Command Headquarters this evening.

Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing arrived at the venue of the reception and dinner at 6.50 pm.

Afterwards, Senior General Than Shwe and wife Daw Kyaing Kyaing cordially met Vice-Chairman of State Peace and Development Council Deputy  ommander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye, Secretary-l of State Peace and Development Council Chief of Office of Strategic Studies Director of Defence Services Intelligence Lt-Gen Khin Nyunt, Secretary-2 Chairman of Leading Committee for Organizing the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chief of Bureau of
Special Operations Chief of Staff (Army) Lt-Gen Tin Oo, Secretary-3 djutant-General Lt-Gen Win Myint, members of State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief (Navy ) Vice-Admiral , Commander-in-Chief (Air), Chairman of Management Committee for Organizing the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commander of Yangon Commander, Deputy Prime Ministers Vice-Admiral Maung
Maung Khin, Lt-Gen Tin Tun and Minister for Military Affairs Quartermasters General, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Dean of Diplomatic Corps Ambassador of Lao People's Democratic Republic Mr Ly Bounkham and ambassadors, Charge d' Affaires ai of the embassies and Military Attaches.

Also present at the reception and dinner were the ministers, the Chief-Justice, the Attorney-General, the Auditor-General, Chairman of Civil Service Selection and Training Board, the mayor members of National Convention Convening Work Committee, advisers to State Peace and Development Council, the deputy ministers, senior Tatmadaw officers of Tatmadaw (Army, Navy and Air) of the Ministry of Defence and their wives, senior Tatmadaw officers of Yangon Command, parade commander and column commands, trainees officers of National Defence College's No 4 Training Course, the director-general of Myanmar Police Force, the director-general of Fire Services Department and the President of Myanmar Red Cross Society and their wives, local and foreign journalists led by Managing Director of News and Periodical Enterprise, secretaries of State and Division Union Solidarity and Development Associations, officials of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, private bankers, departmental heads and guests.

Before the reception and dinner, variety songs were present to the audience by Myanma Athan modem music band. During and after the dinner, Fine Arts Department of the .Ministry of Culture entertained the guests with dances.

---

(3) Commander-in Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe addresses 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day

YANGON, 27 March - The 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade was held at the Resistance Park today with an address by Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe.

The 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day was held in accord with the objectives to strive for promotion and propagation of the Union Spirit; to strive together with the people for emergence of a peaceful, tranquil, modern and developed nation; to strive together with the people to crush all internal and external destructive elements who are disturbing and destroying the stability and development of the nation as the common enemy; and to build a modern Tatmadaw of high qualification and calibre to be
able to safeguard Our Three Main National Causes.

Present on the occasion were Vice-Chairman of the State Peace and Development Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Maung Aye, Secretary-l of the State Peace and Development Council Chief of the Office of Strategic Studies and Director of Defence Services Intelligence , Secretary-2 Chairman of the Leading Committee for Observance of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chief of Bureau of Special Operations and Chief of Staff (Army) , Secretary-3 Adjutant-General, members of the State Peace and Development Council representatives of Myanmar War Veterans Organization Central Headquarters, military. attaches of embassies in Myanmar, Chairman of Japan-Myanmar Economic Cooperation Company Ltd Mr Shigemoto Okuda and party, members of the Japanese war veteran group which wrote the book entitled Minamikikan, military officers of battalions and units of Yangon Command, local and foreign journalists, correspondents of TBS, NHK and Asia World news agencies, members of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council, senior police officers of Myanmar Police Force, officials of Fire Services Department and Red Cross Society,
representatives of Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association, Myanmar Medical Association, Myanmar Dental Surgeons Association, Myanmar Nurses Association, Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, Myanmar Thabin Artistes Asiayon, Myanmar Music Asiayon, Myanmar Motion Pictures Asiayon, Myanmar Artists and Artisans Asiayon, Myanmar National Working Committee for Women's Affairs, Myanmar Women Sports Federation, Myanmar Women Entrepreneurs
Association, the Union of Myanmar Federation of, Chambers of Commerce and Industry. invited Mawgun Award winners, representatives of the Union Solidarity and Development Association and trainees and prize winners of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Commemorative Competitions.

Tatmadaw men, members of Myanmar Police Force, Myanmar Fire Brigade and Myanmar Red Cross Brigade who would be participating in marching columns of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade, assembled at Myoma Sports Grounds at 5 am.

At 6 am, Parade Adjutant Lt-Col Thein Oo presented to Parade Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo nine parade columns which would march to the Resistance Park.

The bag-pipe platoon marched to the Resistance Park in advance and took the designated place.

Next, those present saluted the Flag of the Union of Myanmar.

The Central Military Band played the National Anthem of the Union of Myanmar.

After paying tribute to the fallen leader and members of the Tatmadaw, the columns made up of the Tatmadaw men, members of MPF, Red Cross and Fire Brigades took the Four Oaths.

Then, the Senior General delivered an address.

The columns led by Parade Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo marched past the Senior General, exited the park through No 1 Gate and left for Myoma Sports Ground.

The Senior General left there and the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade ended at 8.55 am.

---

(4) Armed Forces Day Literary and Art competitions held in recognition of important role  of literature and art

YANGON, 27- March - Prizes were presented to winners in 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Literary and Art Competitions at the National Theatre this afternoon.

Chairman of the Leading Committee for Observance of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chief of Bureau of Special Operations Chief of Staff (Army) Lt-Gen Tin Oo delivered an address on the occasion.

Also present were Secretary-3 of the State Peace and Development Council Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Win Myint, ministers, deputy ministers, senior Army, Navy and Air Force officers of Ministry of Defence, members of the Leading Committee and others.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen Tin Oo said one of the objectives in observing the Armed Forces Day is to edify the fine traditions and significant characters of the Tatmadaw. Literary and art competitions are being held as a means acknowledging their importance.

Myanmars founded the Pyu era in the First Century and uplifted the nation's image to be respected in Asia. Myanmars gained a lot of experience throughout the eras from Bagan to Konbaung, enhancing the nation's dignity and military skills. History indicates that Myanmar' s authoritative power spread as far as to Linzin, Chiangmai, Malay archipelago, Assam and Manipura.

He recounted the courage of Myanmars in crushing Mongol invasion with guerrilla tactics and throughout the independence struggles, saying the British had to use millions of funds as military expenditures in trying to ensure peace in colonized Myanmar. He said correct conviction, goodwill work and spirit will lead to the desired goal.

King Tabinshwehti formed the Tatmadaw based on 28 cavalrymen and Alaungphaya on 64 cavalrymen. The modern day Myanmar Tatmadaw was born of the people based on the Thirty Comrades. Sacrificing blood and sweat and with gallantry, the troops of Myanmar kings defended the nation against the intruders throughout history. Independence was regained as the Tatmadaw strove with the motto independence first, independence second and independence third. The Tatmadaw has the fine traditions of safeguarding the nation in times of emergency, during which the nation faced near disintegration.

Literary which is a branch of art played a vital role in all the national movements of the history, helping to vitalize patriotism and nationalistic fervour.

He then elaborated on the Armed Forces Day literary and an competitions which began at the 48th Anniversary Armed Forces Day in 1993. The competitions include novel, short story, poem, military and marching song composing, photo, extempore talks, TV quiz and military code of conduct contests at different level The competitions depict the love for the Tatmadaw by people of all strata of life and the students. The competitions are held in recognition of the important role of literature and art. The number of entries for the competitions exceeded 100,000 The age of the youngest participant was three and the oldest over 80. As prize winning works have been translated into English, the international community has already known the oneness of the Tatmadaw and the people Since its taking over the State's duties, the Tatmadaw is striving to win back national consolidation; almost all the armed groups in the jungles
have returned to the legal; and only one armed ground still remained in the jungles.

There left some of the destructive axe-handles making perpetrations with the assistance of aliens to destroy all the national peace and development endeavours of the government. All should strive for rapid advancement of industries and for boosting production and should apply thrifty methods and should buy more local made goods for the nation to became a peaceful, pleasant, modern and developed nation. History proves that the Tatmadaw also stands by the people.

Lt-Gen Tin Oo urged the literati to compile literature depicting the love between the Tatmadaw and the people and the glory of the Tatmadaw.

Lt-Gen Tin Oo presented prizes to Maung Sein Naung (Lewe), first in long poem level-1 competition, Maung Kyi Thaw (Kawlin), second and Maung Lat (Kanyoedan), third; Mahuya Saw Lwin (Pakokku), first in long poem level-2, Yaynantha Maung Kyaw Nyunt, first, Paing Yun (Awaythin), second and cadet Han Tun third; Kaung Htet (Nyaunglebin), first in short poem level-1, Chit Daung Nwe, second and Maung Myint Than (Magway), third; Zeya Phone Myint, first in short poem level-2, Chan Nyein Aung, second and Pan Wa, third, Lwan Naing Oo (Zeyawady), first in novel competition and Maung Soe Htaik (Thonze), second and Thadumye Phone Shein, first in novice class, Kyawtaya, second and Zaw Myint Thein, third.

Minister Maj-Gen Saw Lwin presented prizes to Minbeda (Pwintbyu), first in short story competition, Ko Htwe (Kalaw-GTI), second and Yaynantha Maung Kyaw Nyunt, third; Thukha Htwe (Taungdwingyi), first in novice class, Tekkatho Hnin Wai, second and Nay Oo, third.

Minister U Soe Tha presented prizes to Chan Mya Aung, first in article competition, Naing Aung Swe, second and Kyaw Nwe Oo, third and Lu Naing, first in novice class, Ko Ko Han, second and Ma Mya Thuza, third.

Minister Brig-Gen Pyi Sone presented prizes to Ko Aung Zeya (UFO) first in making the nation colour photo competition, Hlaing Myat Soe, second and Ko Sein Htay, third; Shwe-in-tha Khin Maung Win, second in the lovely culture and arts colour photo competition and Man Tekkatho Nay Myo Win, third; Nyo Win Aung (Taunggyi), first in novice class, Ye Tun Oo, second and Cherry Pe Aung, third.

Minister Maj-Gen Kyi Aung presented prizes to Maung Zarni Ye Myint of Institute of Dental-Medicine in university, colleges and institute level essay competition, cadet Than Lin Htaik, second and Ma Saw Einda Thet Mauny of Bago Degree College, third; Maung Thein Htaik San of Basic Education High School No 1 in Myitkyina, first in the basic education level essay competition, Ma Myat Hsu Mon Oo of BEHS No 1, Magway, Maung Sein Pan of BEHS No1, Thaton, third.

Minister Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe presented prizes to Ma Khin Nan Cho of BEMS No I in Thaton, first in basic education middle school level essay competition, Maung Pyi Sone Aung of BEMS No 6 in Pathein, second and Maung Khun Hto of BEHS No 2, Hline Township, third and cadet Aung Zaw Moe of DSA, first in university, colleges and institute level poem competition, Ma Saw Einda Thet Maung of Bago Degree College, second and cadet Sai Htet Aung of Defence Services Institute of Medicine, third.

Minister U Win Sein presented prizes to Maung Aung Ko Htet of BEHS No 2, Pathein, first in basic education high school level poem competition, Ma Aye Nyein Thu of BEHS No 22, Chanayethazan Township, second and Maung Kyaw Lin Tun of BEHS in Myitkyina, third; Ma Kay Kay Zin of BEMS No 6 in Pathein in basic education middle

School level poem competition, Ma Htet Htet Tun of BEHS No 2 in Myitkyina, second and Ma Mra Phu Kyaww of BEHS No 5, Sattway, third .

Minister Brig-Gen Win Tin presented prizes to Ma Hsu Yamin of Latha Day Child Care Centre in pre-primary level painting competition, Ma Shwan Leh May of Pazundaung Township, second and Ma Nila Shwan Let of Bahan Township, third and Maung Khin Maung Cho of Institute of Education Practising School, first in junior primary level painting competition, Ma Hnin Oo Wai of BEHS No 2, Latha, second
and Ma Khin Thuza Aung of Institute of Education Practising School, third.

Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa presented prizes to Maung Tha Tha Han of BEPS No 7 in Taikkyi, first in senior primary level painting competition, Ma Thanda Thein Htaik of Institute of Education Practising School, second and Ma Nwe Oo Wai of BEHS No 2, Latha, third; Ma Hsaung Yu Hnin of BEHS No 1, Dagon, first in middle school level painting Kyaw of BEHS No1, Dagon, second and Ma Hsu Win Htaik of BEHS No 1, Dagon, third.

Minister Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein presented prizes to Ma Aye Myat Mon of BEHS No 1, Dagon, first in high school level painting competition, Maung Aung Kyaw Khaing of BEHS, Kawlin, second and Ma Myat Hsu Mon of BEHS No 4, Ahlon, third; Ma Win Thinza Myo, first in open class of painting competition, Ma Cho Cho Lwin, second and Maung Ye Aung Myat, third.

Secretary-3 Lt-Gen Win Myint presented prizes to Maung Chan Mye Aung, first in sculpture (wood) competition, U Zaw Lin of Hlegu, second and U Kyaw Lwin of Hlegu, third.

Minister U Than Aung presented prizes to U Bo Nyi, first in sculpture.(plaster) competition, Maung Zaw Zaw, second and U Moe Aung, third.

Deputy Minister U Soe Nyunt presented prizes to Lay Naing Min, first in marching song competition, sergeant Phone Myint, second and sergeant Myat Kyaw Thu, third; Aye Tun Lin, first in marching level- 1, Maung 'Thet Aye, second and sergeant Phone Myint, third.

Deputy Minister U Thein Sein presented prizes to Nyunt Hlaing Win (Kungyangon), first in marching song composing competition level-2, Aye Min Tun, second and Hla Than Htay, third; Ma Khin Win Myint, first in extempore talk competition, Maung Kyaw Swa Win, second and Ma Myat Zarchi Soe, third.

Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung presented prizes to Ma Mya Thanda Oo, first in basic education high school level extempore talk competition, Maung Kyaw Naing Lin, second and Ma Chan Mye Thu, third; Maung Myat Kyaw, first in basic education middle school level extempore talk competition, Maung Sai Kyaw Kyaw Lat, second and Maung Thiha Swe, third.

Minister Maj-Gen Ket Sein presented prizes to Maung Htain Lin Aung, first in basic education high school level computer drawing competition, Maung Zeya Tun, second and Maung Nay Zaw Win Maung, third; Maung Bo Naing Lin, first in basic education middle competition, Maung Ngwe Tut, second and Maung Aung Khant Zaw, third; Ma Moe Moe San, first in basic education high school level computer application competition, Ma Soe Ohnmar Khin, second and Ma Hsu, third; Maung Tun
Tun Win, first in TV Quiz, Maung Aung Ze Hlaing and Ma Hnin Nwe Soe, third.

Minister Brig-Gen Lun Maung presented prizes to Maung Aung Htut Myint Tin, first in basic education high school level TV Quiz competition, Ma The Oo Lwin, second and Maung Soe Min Oo, third; Ma Khin San Htay, first in computer quiz on the Twelve Objectives and the Tatmadaw, Maung Than Htaik Oo, second and Maung Kyaw Wunna, third.

On behalf of the winners, Maung Sein Naung (Lewe) spoke words of thanks.

Lt-Gen Tin Oo cordially greeted the winners and guests after the ceremony.

---

(5) Prizes presented to best column, company and unit in 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade

YANGON, 27 March - On behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services, Chairman of the Leading Committee for Observance of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chief of the Bureau of Special Operations Chief of Staff (Army) Lt-Gen Tin Oo attended the prize presentation ceremony for best column, company and unit in the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade at Myoma Grounds on U Wisara Road this morning.

First, the Chief of Staff (Army)Lt-Gen Tin Oo took the salute of members of parade columns of Tatmadaw, Myanmar Police Force, Myanmar Fire Brigade and Myanmar Red Cross Society led by Parade Column Brig-Gen Htay Oo.

Then, the Chief of Staff (Army) gave necessary instructions.

Afterwards, the Chief of Staff (Army) presented special Bag-pipe troupe award to the Bag-pipe troupe, special military band award to the Central Military Band, the third prize to the military band of Aung San Column, the second prize to the military band of f Hsinbyushin Column, the first prize to the military band of Nawadae Column, the third prize for standard banner company award to the standard banner company of Nawadae: Column, the second prize to the standard banner company of Anawrahta Column, the first prize to the standard banner company of Hsinbyushin Column, special military song award-2 to North-West Command, special military discipline award-2 to Central Command special parade award-2 to No 11 LID, special military song award-l to No 99 LID, special military discipline award-1 to South-West Command, special parade award-l to No 44 LID, the third prize for military song to Commander-in-Chief (Navy)Police, the third military discipline prize to Commander-in-Chief (Air)'s Office, the third parade prize to No 101 LID, the second military song prize to Directorate of Ordnance, the second military discipline prize to Yangon Command, the second parade prize to Eastern Command, the first: military
song prize to No 88 LID, the military discipline first prize to Directorate of Supply and Transport, the parade first prize to No 77 LID, fifth model company award to Artillery Company of Directorate of Artillery and Armour, the fourth to Commander-in-Chief (Navy)'s Office, the third to Directorate of Medical Services, the second to Commander-in-Chief (Air)'s Office and the first to Armour Company of
Directorate of Artillery and Armour and best parade column award to Hsinbyushin Column.

Then, the Chief of Staff (Army) presented prizes and best awards to companies of Aung San Column, No 2 Company of MRCS, MFB No 2 Company and No I Company of MRCS won the prizes of honour, No I Company of MFB the best marching song award, No 2 Company of MPF the best military discipline award and Company of MPF the best parade award.

Next, the Chief of Staff (Army) presented special prizes to Parade Instructor Capt Maung Htwe and Chief Parade Instructor Lt-Col Aung Than Tun.

Then, the Chief of Staff (Army) took the salute of the Tatmadawmen. members of MPF, MFB and MRCS of parade columns led by Parade Commander Brig-Gen Htay Oo.

---

(6) Prizes presented to winners in Armed Forces Day Military Code of Conduct and Extempore Talks Competition

YANGON, 27 March - Prizes were presented to winners in the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Military Code of Conduct and Extempore Talks Competitions (Central level) at the main hall of the Ministry of Defence this afternoon.

Chairman of the Leading Committee for Observance of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Chief of Bureau of Special Operations Chief of Staff (Army) Lt-Gen Tin Oo attended the ceremony.

Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Win Myint delivered an address.

Also present were senior Arm. Army, Navy, Air Force officers of the Ministry of Defence, prize winners and others.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen Win Myint said military personnel should have military outlook, political outlook, economic outlook and administrative outlook to effectively take part in all the four sectors.

Tatmadawmen must have physical and spiritual ability as they are to entirely serve the people. They should have the spirit of even risking their life in observing the fine traditions of the Tatmadaw. Efforts should be made for the Tatmadaw to become mighty for the nation to totally rely on. The sovereignty is the artery of a nation. The three organs of State power must be in the hands of the people. The Tatmadawmen will safeguard sovereignty at the risk of their life. A modem armed forces is a dignity for a peaceful, stable, modern and developed nation. The Tatmadawmen should have the spirit of sacrificing, the courage to risk their life and cooperation among one another.

Military Code of Conduct Competition

Then, the Chief of Staff (Army) presented Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services certificate of honour to Lt Toe Win of South-West Command, who won the first in officer level, Commander in-Chief of Defence Services certificate of honour and pro motion order to navigator-3 Tun Tun Lwin of Commander-in-Chief (Air')s Office, who won the first in WO level, C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour and promotion order to Cpl Yan Naing of C-in-C (Air)'s Office, who won the first in Cpl level and C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour and promotion order to Pvt Win Zaw Htaik of C-in-C (Navy)'s Office, who won the first in Pvt level. Extempore Talks Competition

Adjutant-General Lt-Gen Win Myint presented C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour to Lt Wint Wint Naing of South-West Command, who won the first in officer level, C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour and promotion order to WO II Aung Kyaw Naing of Commander-in-Chief (Navy)'s Office, who won the first in WO level, C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour and promotion order to Quartermaster-Sergeant Kyaw Hsint of C-in-C (Air)'s Office, who won the first in
Cpl/Sgt level and C-in-C of Defence Services' certificate of honour and promotion order to Pvt Aung Kyaw Oo of Yangon Command, who won the first in Pvt level.

Chief of Staff (Navy) Rear-Admiral Kyi Min presented first, second and third prizes to Lt Toe Win of South-West Command, Captain Kyaw Zin Moe of C-in-C (Air)'s Office and Lt, Than; Htut Oo of No 11 LID in the officer level of military code of conduct competition respectively.

Chief of Staff (Navy) Rear-Admiral Kyi Min presented first, second and third prizes to Lt Toe Win of South-West Command, Captain Kyaw Zin Moe of C-in-C (Air)'s Office and Lt Than Htut Oo of No 11 LID in the officer level of military code of conduct competition respectively.

Chief of Staff (Air) Maj-Gen Myint Swe presented first, second and third prizes to navigator-3 Tun Tun Lwin of C-in-C (Air)'s Office, Under-Officer Zaw Myo Naing of No 99 LID and aviation mechanic-3 Kyaw Zin Thant of C-in-C (Air)'s Office in the WO level of military code of conduct competition respectively.

Military Appointments General Maj-Gen Tin Ngwe, Judge Advocate-General Maj-Gen Thein Soe, Defence Services Inspector-General Maj-Gen Lun Maung, Vice-Adjutant-General Brig-Gen Maung Nyo, Vice-Quartermaster-General Brig-Gen Kyaw Win and Director of Signals Brig-Gen Aung Myint also presented prizes to the winners.

---

(7) Commander presents prizes to special prize winners

YANGON, 27 March - A prizes-distribution ceremony for 102 special prize winners in Literary and Art Competition to mark the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day in Yangon Command was held at the Myanyila Hall of No 2 BEHS in Latha Township this morning.

Chairman of the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Organizing Management Committee, Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Khin Maung Than presented prizes and certificates of honour to 102 special prize winners in Literary and Art Contest to mark the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day in Yangon Command area.

Also present were Military Region Commanders, senior military officers of Mingaladon and Yangon stations, Chairman and members of Township Peace and Development Council, Latha Township, Headmistress Daw Khin Ohn Myint, responsible persons and guests.

---

(8) Military attaches pay tribute to the Fallen Heroes

YANGON, 27 March - Military attaches, of foreign embassies in Myanmar who attended the 55th Anniversary Armed Forces Day Parade paid tribute to fallen comrades at the Memorial to Fallen Heroes after the parade at 9.30 am.

They were welcomed by Chairman of Maintenance Committee for the Memorial, Commandant of Defence Services Records Office, Commander of No 4 Military Region Col Myo Myint and officers at the Memorial.

The military attaches led by Dean Military attaches of Vietnam Senior Col Nguyen Ngoc Lu paid tribute to the fallen comrades laying a flower basket and signed in the visitors book. They posed for photographs.

---

(9) 31 Monyo NLD members resign of own accord

YANGON, 27 March - Thirty-one members resigned from the National League for Democracy of Monyo Township, Bago Division.

Thirty-one members of Monyo Township NLD, Bago Division, of their own accord, resigned by sending letters of resignation to Monyo Township Multiparty Democracy General Election Sub- commission and the party concerned on 13 October 1999 as they no longer wished participate in party politics of NLD.

---

(10)WEATHER

Maximum temperature on 26-3-2000 was 34.0°C (95°F)
Minimum temperature on 27-3-2000 was 24.0 °C (76°F)
 

TOP

To view with photos, please browse at - http://www.myanmar.com/nlm/