Established-1914
HOME
ARCHIVE
 Sunday,  27 July  2003
ONLINE  EDITION
Headlines
Region

International Relations


Headlines 

Secretary-1 attends ceremony to enshrine religious objects in reliquary on throne of Bronze Buddha Images at ancient Kyaikpadagyi Hsandawshin Pagoda

YANGON, 26 July - The ceremony to enshrine religious objects in the reliquary on the throne of bronze Buddha images at the prayer halls of ancient historic Kyaikpadagyi Hsandawshin Pagoda was held at the pagoda in Padagyi Model Village in Kyauktan Township, Yangon South District, this morning. It was attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

It was also attended by State Ovadacariya Sayadaw of Kyauktan Minkyaung Pariyatti Sarthintaik Agga Maha Pandita Bhaddanta Jagara and members of the Sangha, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the Yangon mayor, deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council office, departmental officials, local authorities, wellwishers, members of social organizations, wut associations, guests and local people. Assistant Director of Religious Affairs Department of the Ministry of Religious Affairs U San Thin Hlaing acted as master of ceremonies. The ceremony was opened with three-time recitation of namotassa. Sayadaw Bhaddanta Jagara administered the Secretary-1 and congregation with the Five Precepts and members of the Sangha recited parittas.

Next, the Secretary-1 offered religious objects and provisions to Sayadaw Bhaddanta Jagara. The commander, the ministers, the mayor and wellwishers presented offertories to the Sayadaws and members of the Sangha.

Afterwards, Sayadaw Bhaddanta Jagara delivered a sermon, followed by sharing of the merits gained. Next, the enshrinement ceremony followed. First, the religious objects were conveyed clockwise.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt enshrined religious objects in the reliquary on the throne of the Bronze Buddha Images kept in the eastern prayer hall on the platform of the pagoda, and covered it with jewelled tiles and sprinkled them with scented water. Later, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt also enshrined religious objects in the reliquary on the throne of the Bronze Buddha Images kept in the southern and western prayer halls on the platform of the pagoda. He then sealed it with jewelled tiles and poured scented water on them. At that time, the master of ceremonies recited enshrinement Gathas (verses). The Secretary-1 paid homage to the Buddha Image with flowers and lights in the eastern prayers' hall.

After the ceremony, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt shared merits gained from meritorious deeds by tolling the bells in the eastern part of the pagoda and performed a gold and silver shower to mark the success of the ceremony.

Later, a cash donation ceremony for all-round renovation of Kyaikpadagyi Hsandawshin Pagoda took place at the pagoda. First, Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt and wife Dr Daw Khin Win Shwe and family presented K 450,000 for installation of ironwork on the wall of eastern stairway to Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe who presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.

Next, the Secretary-1 accepted K 450,000 each donated by staff families of the Ministry of Religious Affairs, staff families of Yangon City Development Committee and U Htay Myint (Yuzana Co Ltd), K 4 million by Chairman of Central Development Co Ltd U Win Myint and members, K 2.2 million by U Tin Sein and Daw Nan Kham Tint and family of Universal Bank, K 600,000 for the archway of Minkyaung Pagoda in Kyauktan by the Minkyaung Sayadaw and his disciples, K 500,000 for all-round renovation of Kyaikpadagyi Pagoda by U Aung Myint and Daw Tin Tin Aye and family of Kyauktan, K 200,000 by U Arnt Maung and Daw Tin Tin Wai and family and K 400,000 by Daw Aye Myat Nwe (Bagan Hotel) and presented certificates of honour to the wellwishers.

|After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 inspected the all-round renovation tasks of Kyaikpadagyi Hsandawshin Pagoda and repair of ancient ordination hall. Next, the Secretary-1 inspected the repair of the stairway and construction of retaining wall of Kyaikpyatthettanon Minkyaung Zedidaw in the town and gave necessary instructions to the officials. Next, the Secretary-1 and party arrived at construction site of e-library being constructed in front of Shwehmawwun Sasana Beikman on Minkyaung Street. Wellwisher President of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry U Win Myint and officials welcomed them and reported on completion of construction of the library. The Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions and inspected round the work site.

Later, the Secretary-1 and party arrived back here by car.

Secretary-1 attends opening of BEPS No 20, day nurseries in Dagon Myothit (East) Township

YANGON, 26 July - Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt this evening attended the opening ceremony of Basic Education Primary School No 20 and Day Nurseries built by Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development in Dagon East Industrial Town in Dagon Myothit (East) Township.

Accompanied by Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe and officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, the Secretary-1 arrived at BEPS No 20 in Ward 164, Dagon Myothit (East) Township where they were welcomed by Ministers for Education U Than Aung, deputy ministers, departmental heads, local authorities, social organizations, members of School Board of Trustees, wellwishers, teachers and students.

Deputy Minister for Construction U Tint Swe and Deputy Minister for Education U Myo Nyunt formally opened the school building.

Next, Director-General U Arnt Kyaw of DHSHD reported on the purpose of the donation related to the school building of BEPS No 20.

Deputy Director-General Col Tin Tun handed over documents related to the building to Acting Director-General U Aye Myint of No 3 Basic Education Department.

Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt accepted K 1 million for the school donated by Dr Zaw Tun and Dr Htay Htay Kyi of Shwe Kyarbyan Construction; K 200,000 each by U Aung Zaw Win and party of East Dagon Industrial Town U Chan Aye of Chan Aye Construction; and U Ye Min of Parami Construction. Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Minister for Education U Than Aung accepted cash donations from wellwishers.

The Secretary-1 handed over K 2.4 million donated by 12 wellwishers to Headmistress Daw Thida of BEPS No 20. The headmistress spoke words of thanks.

Next, Minister for Education U Than Aung delivered an address. In his address, he said that the Government in cooperation with the people is implementing education promotion plans for development of the national education. Especially, the Government has been striving for development of the basic education sector with the participation of the people. Similarly, construction of basic education schools has been sponsored by the State, the people and the wellwishers.

He said he was delighted to see donations for construction of new school buildings, civil projects and housing estate projects. Arrangements have been made to implement the plan to open Post-Primary Schools for three years. Likewise, the plan to continuously pursue education for the students from primary to university levels are being implemented.

There are over 43,000 basic education schools in the country. As the number of Post-Primary Schools increases year after year, primary and middle students have remarkably been gaining opportunities to pursue education.

In implementing the education promotion programmes, tasks are being carried out with the concept that society is the resource of the education sector. At the same time, measures are being taken for promotion of education sector as human resource. In doing so, the education goal of the State is flourishing due to participation of the people in implementation of education plans. Later, the minister thanked the people and wellwishers for their donations of constructing the school buildings.

After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 viewed the rooms of the school and cordially greeted those present.

Then, the Secretary-1 attended the opening of the new building of Dagon East Industrial City's day nursery constructed by the Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development in Dagon Myothit (East Township).

Officials formally opened the new building. Director-General of DHSHD U Arnt Kyaw explained the purpose of the opening of the building.

Next, the employees of factories in the industrial zones of Yangon Division donated K 6 million to the trust fund of the nursery; Dr Zaw Tun and Dr Htay Htay Kyi and family, K 1 million; U Wai Lwin of TMW Enterprise Co Ltd and Dr Ko Ko Gyi of Diamond Star Flour Mill, K 500,000 each; and Daw Aye Aye Mu of Parami Construction, K 300,000 to the Secretary-1. Afterwards, U Aung Zaw Win and party and Golden Family Furniture presented K 200,000 each; Shwe Gabar Maung Maung Construction, Ngwe Win Aung Construction, Sinma Construction, Pyae Shwesin Construction, Chan Construction, KMA Construction, Aung Construction, Aye Yeik Mon Construction, Shwe Padomma Co, Japan Ma Co, Better Gain Import & Export Co Ltd, Triple Fish Co Ltd, Migathi Traditional Medicine and U Tin Hlaing, K 100,000 each through Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa.

The Secretary-1 handed over K 10 million donated by 21 wellwishers to Chairman of the school management committee U Thein Htoo.

Minister Maj-Gen Sein Htwa expressed thanks, saying that day nurseries play an important role in nurturing young children. Only when the young children deal with good surroundings in their early-childhood, can good foundations be built for the development of the children, he noted. In this process, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement hand in hand with the government is taking part in the project.

In the entire nation, the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement is undertaking 62 day nurseries, and the Maternal and Child Welfare Association, over 700 day nurseries and over 800 pre-primary schools. Young children are being well trained and nurtured for their all-round development in such day nurseries and pre-primary schools.

The teachers well trained by the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement are nurturing the young children for all-round development at that day nursery. So, he said he hoped that the day nursery is certain to make progress soon.

He pledged that the ministry will fulfil all the requirements of the day nursery. Next, he thanked those who contributed towards the building.

After the ceremony, the Secretary-1 and party viewed the day nursery.

They proceeded to the work site of Konbaung housing project being undertaken by the Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development in Dagon Myothit (East) Township. An official reported on work progress. The Secretary-1 inspected the Dagon Yeikmon Overpass Construction Project across Yangon-Mandalay Railroad, linking Dagon Myothit (North) and (South) townships, on Yangon No 2 Highway. Officials reported on progress of work, land reclamation for Shwepinlon Housing Project in Dagon Myothit (North) Township and Mya Yamon Housing Project in Dagon Myothit (South) Township.

Regarding the reports, the Secretary-1 gave necessary instructions to the officials.

Fifth annual general meeting of National Development Company Group Ltd held
Government providing full support for development of State's economic sector with participation of national entrepreneurs

YANGON, 26 July - The fifth annual general meeting of the National Development Company Group Ltd was held at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung Road here this afternoon, with an address by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council General Khin Nyunt.

Also present on the occasion were Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the Yangon mayor, deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, departmental heads, guests, Chairman of the company U Khin Shwe and members of the board of directors and shareholders.

In his address, the Secretary-1 said that the government has been making earnest efforts for strengthening the national economic life in order that the nation can keep abreast with the development of international community and can stand tall among the world nations.

In view of international affairs, it can be found that the world nations are vying with each other for promoting their own national interests and even wealthy nations are placing in the fore the national interests in international economic and trade fields. Besides, some super wealthy powers are economically resorting to widespread discrimination against or in favour of the developing nations to be under their domination, he noted. So, Myanmar, a developing one, has to strive for improving her economy and ensuring emergence of strong economic foundations. In this process, the government, facing the challenges, has been undertaking the tasks after laying down national economic plans. It is also encouraging national economic associations as well as private national entrepreneurs to ensure harmonious development between them.

Especially, the government is providing full support for the development of the State's economic sector and ensuring that the initiative to shape the national economy is kept in the hands of the national entrepreneurs.

Emergence of the thriving National Development Company Group Ltd consisting of national entrepreneurs is in accordance with the aims of the national economic policies, he said.

In the course of the history of the National Development Company Group Ltd, an industrial company has been established since 1998 in order that successful construction entrepreneurs, other entrepreneurs, technicians and technological experts can collectively participate in the industrial sector of the State's construction projects. And the national entrepreneurs are worthy of honour based on the emergence of the National Development Company Group Ltd consisting of 25 companies of the people.

The objectives of the company are: to follow and implement the economic objectives of the State; to cooperate with the intelligentsia and intellectuals and enhance the private sector; to cooperate in the interests of the public and share the benefits; and to participate in the efforts to modernize and develop the nation while upholding the national cause.

Nowadays, the National Development Company Group, after setting up its branches in such fields as trade, industry, construction, engineering, and general services, is doing its businesses on a broader scale. Moreover, it is operating its businesses through systematic management to ensure mutual benefits among its branches.

For instance, the Construction and Engineering Ltd of the company is implementing high-standard housing projects under the charge of the Supervisory Committee for the City Estate Project, and sell them to the national people at reasonable prices.

Moreover, the Trading Ltd of the company imports construction materials and machinery with the money obtained from export business and helps further improve the housing projects by distributing them to construction entrepreneurs at reasonable prices.

After the company had started life, it extended its businesses and later it re-established itself as a public company, creating opportunities for the public to make investment. Therefore, with the earnest participation of well-rounded individuals, engineers and businessmen, the company became financially and technologically strong through experience and is growing as a national economic force.

Under this circumstance, it is necessary for the company to cherish the objectives - to help implement the economic objectives of the State, to enhance the private sector in cooperation with intelligentsia and intellectuals, to share the common benefits with the public, and to participate in the effort to make the nation prosper.

Moreover, efforts are still in need to establish itself as a private economic organization benefiting the nation and the people.

To stand as a firm company for ever, profits should be divided as fairly as possible and arrangements should also be made to ensure on annual increase in the investment.

In the belief that only when national economic enterprises capable of contributing to the national interests come into being will the national economic life be strong and can the State stand shoulder to shoulder with international community, the Government is making efforts to develop the national economic enterprises as a national cause.

Further, the Government is also creating opportunities for national businessmen to participate in the nation-building tasks.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance occasionally on well intention and hope of the Government for national entrepreneurs in private sector.

In his inspection tour of the Magway new airport construction project on 23 November 2002, Head of State Senior General Than Shwe expressed his attitude towards private economic enterprises and said that "it is out of question to implement nation-building tasks on a self-reliant basis by the Government alone, and it needs cooperation of national private entrepreneurs. Opportunities are being created for national entrepreneurs capable of utilizing modern technologies to make their economic infrastructure strong. There should be harmonious cooperation between the Government and national entrepreneurs in shaping the future of the State."

Likewise, the Head of State also expressed the hope of the State towards national entrepreneurs and said that "national entrepreneurs are to be skilled at the construction of not only transport infrastructures but also economic infrastructures - factories and industries - in the undertakings of nation-building tasks. Experienced Myanmar entrepreneurs are to strive to become international-level entrepreneurs."

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe's guidance highlights the great attitude and hope of the Government shown to national entrepreneurs.

Therefore, the national entrepreneurs should play an active role in the nation-building tasks. It is significant that the National Development Company Group made up of 25 companies came into being at a time when the Government is giving encouragement to the emergence of international-level economic productive forces.

Therefore, the National Development Company Group is to strive to establish itself as a prominent economic group.

In conclusion, the Secretary-1 said all the members of the board of directors and share holders are to continue to strive to stand as a successful and firm economic group, to set high aims to become international-level economic group capable of linking to foreign economic organizations and companies, to help support the firmness of national economic life in the interests of the company, the public and the State.

Chairman of National Development Company Group U Khin Shwe delivered a speech. He said the company is carrying out the general services and hotel services. The company was established in September, 2002 and has paid K 116 million as tax to the State.

With the assistance of the government, the company has achieved success in every sector. In  addition, the shareholders of the company will enjoy success. He continued to say that after concluding this meeting, they will be extending their business, he said. The company will sell more shares to the public to be able to enjoy the business boom. Arrangements are to be made for gaining success in the business in the years to come under the management of the new board of directors.

So far, there are 2,500 shareholders in the company - over 70 construction entrepreneurs, over 100 merchants, 16 industrialists, 75 doctors, over 140 engineers, 40 other company staff, 70 retired government servants and 1,900 students including monks and the public.

With the development momentum of the company's business according to the future work programmes, its branches will be set up in Mandalay and Mawlamyine. Arrangements are also under way to establish export production zones (EPZs) and make construction materials available at one stop at reasonable prices.

He then said the company will carry out the business in accord with the directives of Secretary-1 General Khin Nyunt.

Next, Managing Director U Tint Hsan reported on construction works of Construction & Engineering Group. Next, the chairman and members of the board of directors presented K 30 million donated by National Development Company Group to the Secretary-1 for use in education, health and social fields of the State.

The Secretary-1 presented certificates of honour to six advisers and 11 companies which cooperated with National Development Co. Before the meeting, the Secretary-1 and party inspected the small scale models of the housing estates and shops built by National Development Company Group in cooperation with the Department of Human Settlement and Housing Development under the guidance of City Housing Estate supervisory Committee, at the hall of the National Theatre.

Next, the second session of the fifth annual general meeting continued. Chairman of the company group U Khin Shwe presided over the meeting and gave a speech. General Secretary U Than Myint read out the report of the BOD and answered the queries raised by share-holders. Joint-Treasurer U Kyaw Nyunt and Treasurer U Tint Hsan presented the financial report for 2002-2003 fiscal and dividents for the share-holders. Next, the meeting sought the approval of the BOD report and the financial report. Later, 33 new BOD members were selected.


Region

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win inspect development tasks in Chin State

YANGON, 26 July - Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win and Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Ye Myint, accompanied by Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein, deputy ministers, senior military officers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental heads, arrived in Kanpetlet, Chin State, via Bagan-NyaungU by helicopter at 9.30 am on 19 July.

They were welcomed there by Chairman of Sagaing Division Peace and Development Council Commander of North-West Command Maj-Gen Soe Naing, Chairman of Chin State Peace and Development Council Col Tin Hla and officials.

At the office of Township Peace and Development Council, they met with departmental personnel, social organizations and local people. Township Peace and Development Council Chairman U Thein Tun Lwin reported on the area of the township, set-up of wards and villages, cultivation of monsoon paddy, maize, pulses and beans, edible oil crops, kitchen crops and tea, local sufficiency of rice, education and health matters and requirements. Officials reported on their respective sectors.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint gave instructions on regional development tasks.

Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win spoke on the occasion. He said the inspection tour team led by Member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann arrived there to inspect development tasks of Chin State and to fulfil the requirements.

Though Kanpetlet Township is located in southern part of Chin State, the township can be reached from Magway Division through Saw-Kazunma-Seikphyu Road and Anawrahta Bridge (Chauk) and from other neighbouring states and divisions easily. Therefore, progress had been made in economic, social, health and education fields along with flourishing of Union Spirit.

Land and climatic conditions of Chin State are suitable for tea cultivation. Efforts are to be made for extended cultivation of tea, development of Chin State and uplift of living standard of the local people. Similarly, it is necessary to extend breeding of domesticated wild ox on a commercial scale. As the Government, on its part, is fulfilling the requirements of the States and Divisions for equitable development of these regions, local authorities, service personnel and local people are to cooperate with the Government in the development tasks.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann delivered an address. He said peace and stability plays a key role in building a peaceful, modern and developed nation. He said peace and stability prevails fully in Chin State. Therefore, if efforts are to be made systematically for regional development, Chin State will achieve greater progress. Head of State Senior General Than Shwe is always thinking about development of the nation and fulfilling the requirements of the national people for raising their living standard.

He added that they arrived in Chin State to inspect development of Chin State and to fulfil requirements in accord with the guidance of Senior General Than Shwe. The Government is striving with genuine goodwill for development of the State on self-reliance basis. The Government, on its part, will attend to development tasks of Chin State. Therefore, local authorities, service personnel and local people should also strive for achieving progress in the region after realizing the aim of the Government.

Next, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented exercise books for basic education schools in Kanpetlet Township to Township Education Officer U Bo Myint and clothes for the local people to the Township Chairman.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint presented cash assistance to Kanpetlet Township Working Committee for Women's Affairs through Township WCWA member Daw Cherry Cho. Deputy Minister for Education Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung presented video tapes as teaching aids to the TEO.

After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party inspected Shwe Taungdan Agriculture and Livestock Breeding Farm. Owner of the farm U Mya Mong conducted them round the farm. The farm occupies 6.62 acres of land where 32,425 tea plants, 1,269 perennial trees and vegetables are grown. In addition, domestic and foreign pedigrees of poultry are being bred. At the Township Hospital, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and party comforted the patients and inspected the X-ray room and the operation theatre. The Secretary-2 presented K 3 million to the trust fund of the Kanpetlet Hospital to Dr Myint Soe. He also presented K 1.5 million for Kyindwe Station Hospital and cash assistance to Kanpetlet Township Maternal and Child Welfare Association to officials.

At Kanpetlet BEHS, the Secretary-2 and party inspected the language lab and conversed with students. Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win, Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing and Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan inspected the tea plantation of the school.

While in Kanpetlet, Lt-Gen Ye Myint went to the Monastic Education School and presented exercise books and school uniforms to students.

Chairman of Chin State Peace and Development Council Col Tin Hla presented cash assistance to teachers. In the afternoon, they proceeded to Mindat by helicopter. They were welcomed there by local authorities, service personnel and local people.

At Mindat BEHS No 1, they met with local authorities, service personnel and local people. Officials reported on progress of the region, agriculture, livestock breeding, education, health and transport matters and requirements. Deputy Minister for Health Dr Mya Oo and Deputy Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Brig-Gen Than Tun gave supplementary reports. Lt-Gen Ye Myint explained regional development tasks undertaken in Mindat.

Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win delivered an address. At present, better transportation has been achieved on Matupi-Mindat Road, Mindat-Kanpetlet Road, Mindat-Kyaukhtu-Pauk-Pakokku Road and Mindat-Saw-Seikphyu Road in southern part of Chin State.

Local people in Chin State can easily go to not only Pakokku region but also to other states and divisions to manage economic, education and health matters. Nowadays, southern part of Chin State has no longer isolated with poor transport. As the result of upgrading the district hospital in Pakokku region, the gateway of southern part of Chin State and opening of universities and colleges, local national races in Chin State (Southern Part) have now access to education and health opportunities.

The local people are to actively strive for local food sufficiency, changing of slash-and-burn practice to modern highland cultivation system, extended cultivation of perennial crops including tea and extended breeding of domesticated wild ox on a commercial scale.

Local people are to try hard in response to the goodwill of the State. As the nation today has been making progress with momentum due to good leadership of the Government and cooperation of the people, Chin State should make efforts for keeping abreast with other regions.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann delivered an address. He said that Chin State can make more progress using good opportunities created by the State.

The State Peace and Development Council led by Head of State Senior General Than Shwe laid down plans and is bringing about equitable development of across the Union, enhancement of development tasks after narrowing the gaps in economic and social opportunities among regions and reconsolidation of the national unity. Therefore, all states and divisions have been making progress simultaneously. At present, economic and transport infrastructures are being set up in Chin State.

Local people are to extend agriculture and livestock breeding tasks in Chin State to alleviate poverty and uplift living standard. Similarly, local authorities, service personnel and local people are to actively participate in regional development tasks.

Next, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented exercise books for basic education schools in Mindat Township to TEO U Win Myint and clothes for local people to Township Chairman U Win Lwin.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint also presented cash assistance for Mindat Township WCWA to member Daw Rwe Gyi and Daw Lwin Hton.

Next, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and party cordially met with those present. After the ceremony, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann went to the local battalion and cordially met with officers and other ranks and families.

Meanwhile, the Secretary-2 and party attended the opening ceremony of multimedia teaching centre at Mindat BEHS No 2. Commander Maj-Gen Soe Naing, Chin State EO U Soe Myint and Headmaster U San Choke formally opened the centre.

Afterwards, Vice-Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win formally unveiled the signboard of the centre.

The Secretary-2 and party inspected the multimedia teaching centre and skill demonstration of the students. Headmaster U San Choke reported on efforts made for opening the centre. Chairman of School Board of Trustees U Hon Menn presented K 1 million for the centre to the headmaster.

Next, the Secretary-2 presented cash assistance to purchase computers for Mindat BEHS No 1 and No 2 to school heads. Afterwards, they went to Mindat District Hospital and presented K 5 million for the hospital to District Surgeon Dr Maung Maw.

The Secretary-2 presented K 1.5 million for the trust funds of Wummathu Station Hospital and cash assistance for Township MCWA to officials. On arrival at Mindat BEHS No 1, they inspected e-Education Learning Centre.

Lt-Gen Ye Myint went to Border Region and Youth Border Training School No 2 in Mindat. He cordially greeted Principal U Ge Lein Mong and students and presented school uniforms to the students. Afterwards, Lt-Gen Ye Myint and party proceeded to Border Region and Youth Border Training School No 1.

On 20 July morning, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and party inspected Mindat by car. At noon, they left Mindat for Matupi by car.

At the 102nd mile camp, they inspected completion of Mindat-Matupi gravel road and collection of gravel for upgrading the road. At 35th mile camp, they viewed conservation of natural forest.

Next, after inspecting the condition of the road and conservation of natural forests at 56th mile camp, they arrived at Matupi on 21 July morning.

In meeting with departmental staff, members of social organizations and townspeople at Matupi Township Peace and Development Council office, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann first explained the purpose of their tour, work coordinated for regional development in their previous tours.

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann then said Matupi region in Chin State has been weak in development due to poor transport. The State is endeavouring for the development of the region, betterment of transport and enhancement of education and health standards in the whole Chin State including Matupi. In this process, local authorities, departmental staff and local people are needed to cooperate in the development tasks, he said.

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann and party viewed round the development of Matupi. Chairman U Ya Hti of Matupi Township Peace and Development Council reported to the Secretary-2 on the area of the township, thriving of paddy, corn and tea plantations, livestock breeding tasks, health and education matters and requirements. The Secretary-2 fulfilled the needs and gave necessary instructions to officials.

Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented exercise books for basic education schools in Matupi to Township Education Officer U Kyaw Shein and the clothes for local people to Council Chairman U Ya Hti.

The Secretary-2 presented cash assistance for Women's Affairs Work Committee to Daw Yon Yon of the township committee, and greeted those present at the meeting. The Secretary-2 and party went to the township People's Hospital where they comforted the patients and inspected the X-ray room and medical store.

At the hall of the hospital, Vice-Chairman of the National Health Committee Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win met with doctors and nurses. He next presented K 3 million to the fund of the township hospital, K 2 million to the fund of Yezwa Station Hospital, K 1.5 million to the fund of Laiklinpi Station Hospital to officials.

On arrival at Matupi Basic Education School, the Secretary-2 inspected multi-media classrooms and learning lessons of the students. After meeting with the headmistress and teachers, the Secretary-2 attended to the requirements of the school and presented cash for multi-media classrooms to the headmistress.

Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Soe Win Maung presented educational video tapes to the headmistress.

The Secretary-2 and party proceeded to Matupi monastic education school and donated school uniforms to the students and trainees of Border Area Youth Development Training School.

Afterwards, Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win and party left Matupi and arrived at Gangaw, Magway Division, in the afternoon. In meeting with service personnel, social associations and townselders, Lt-Gen Ye Myint explained the purpose of their tour of Matupi in Chin State.

The Secretary-2 made a speech, saying that Gangaw is a region that has favourable weather conditions. As the region is thriving on agricultural work, there is local self-sufficiency of rice and also a surplus, he noted. Departmental staff and local people, in cooperation with the State, are to make efforts for further development of Gangaw region.

Vice-Chairman of Myanmar Education Committee Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Soe Win presented exercise books for the schools in Gangaw to the assistant division education officer. Lt-Gen Ye Myint presented cash assistance for the township Women's Affairs Work Committee and Maternal and Child Welfare Association to officials.

Lt-Gen Thura Shwe Mann, the Secretary-2 and party cordially greeted those present at the meeting and left for Haka, Chin State.

Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, who was in the tour of Chin State, inspected Mindat District Information and Public Relations Department in Mindat on 19 July evening and gave necessary instructions to officials. Similarly, Minister for Livestock and Fisheries Brig-Gen Maung Maung Thein and Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Brig-Gen Khin Maung inspected model tea plantations in Mindat the same day.


Press conference clarifies arrest of those who attempted to detonate bombs and those who were in contact with anti- government organizations together with explosives

YANGON, 26 July - A press conference to clarify the arrest of those who attempted to commit terrorist acts by detonating bombs on Arzani Day and those who were in contact with the anti-government organizations together with explosives was held at the Tatmadaw Guest House on Inya Road here this morning.

Present on the occasion were Chairman of Public Relations and Information Work Group of the State Peace and Development Council Minister for Labour U Tin Winn, Vice-Chief of Military Intelligence Maj-Gen Kyaw Win, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Khin Maung Win, Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, senior military officers of the Ministry of Defence, heads of department, officials of News and Periodicals Enterprise under the Ministry of Information, U Sein Win of Kyodo News Agency, Patron of Myanmar Foreign Correspondents Club U Hla Htway, President U Sao Kai Hpa and member correspondents and guests.

Clarifying the arrest of those who attempted to commit terrorist acts by detonating bombs and those who were in contact with the anti-government organizations, Deputy Head of Department of the Ministry of Defence Col San Pwint said that members of the Military Intelligence Unit on 16 July 2003 arrested 12 persons who were attempting to commit terrorist acts by detonating bombs and who were in contact with the anti-government organizations together with explosives sent into the country by terrorist insurgents and anti-government organizations abroad with the intention of jeopardizing peace and stability in the country, of assassinating of members of the State Peace and Development Council, of causing panic among the people, and of causing commotion and unrest.

It was obvious that the terrorist insurgents and anti-government organizations abroad have been stepping up military and political campaign in collusion with political activities in the nation since early 2002. The representatives of KNU insurgents, SURA opium trafficking insurgents, KNPP insurgents, ALP insurgents, and CNF insurgents led by Phado Ba Thin of KNU held a meeting in the other country in November 2002. The five-party military alliance was formed at the meeting and resolution was passed to jointly launch military activities in harmony and step up military campaign.

An emergency meeting was held at NCUB office in Banmai Ward, Maesot in the first week of December 2002. The meeting was attended by Phado Ba Thin, Bo Mya and Phado Mann Shar of KNU, Khine Soe Naing Aung of ALP, Tin Aung, Bo Thaung, Than Htut and Maung Maung Aye of NLD (LA), Khun Mar Ko Ban, Kyaw Nyunt and Kyaw Htet of NCUB, Aung Moe Zaw and Zaw Naing Oo of DPNS, Myo Win, Than Khe and Kyaw Kyaw of ABSDF, Maung Maung (a) Pyithit Nyunt Wai of FTUB and Aye Hsaung of PLF. They discussed matters on supporting internal political activities of NLD, cooperation between democratic forces and ethnic groups, launching military activities after combining ethnic groups, drafting constitution and internal political affairs.

It was learnt that the representatives of remnant BCP, ABSDF, DPNS and NLD (LA), held a meeting in Maesot, Thailand in February 2003. At the meeting, they discussed and compiled one publication on fighting scheme for the people (draft) to create commotion and unrest in the nation.

The draft will be approved at a special meeting to be held in May 2003. The copies of the draft will be distributed to the anti-government organizations at home and abroad.

A meeting on the struggle with mass involvement (draft) was held at Chiang Mai, Thailand on 22 May. It was attended by about 50 persons including Phado Mann Shar and Man Nyein Maung of KNU led by Vice-Chairman of KNU Bo Mya, Aung Moe Zaw of DPNS, Khine Soe Naing Aung of ALP, Than Ghe of ABSDF and Tin Aung of NLD (LA). They discussed matters related to the struggle with mass involvement (draft). They then approved resolution for stepping up the struggle with mass involvement, beefing up military activities, infiltrating into the international community including the UN, and stepping up the international campaign. They also discussed matters on implementation of future work programmes organization-wise.

It was found that the terrorist insurgents and anti-government organizations abroad have been stepping up the military activities and destructive acts. In an interview with BBC on 21 April, Phado Mann Shar of KNU himself disclosed that the KNU would step up its military activities and destructive acts. The atrocities and destructive acts perpetrated by the insurgents were clarified at the press conferences held on 25 April, 10 May and 26 May.

An emergency meeting attending by the representatives of NCUB led by Bo Mya of KNU was held in Thailand from 3 to 9 June. The meeting assigned duties to Tamala Baw, a leader of KNU, as Chairman of Political Defiance Committee. Long-term and short-term plans were laid down to create commotion and unrest in the nation. Plans were drawn for despatching UGs into the nation, nurturing UG cadres, sending explosive devices, conducting training on detonating mines and bombs, designating Yangon, Mandalay, Pyay, Bago and Mawlamyine as basic regions, and establishing of communication routes.

Upon investigation, the authorities concerned on 16 July 2003 arrested Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay, son of U Thein Win, of Lanmadaw Street, Thonze and Zaw Myo Htet (a) Zaw Zaw, son of U Tin Maung Oo, of 4th Pyidawtha Street, Minhla together with four C4 gunpowder, one fuse and one bomb in ball pen shape.

Upon further investigation, it was learnt that San Naing (a) Ye Thiha under the guise of a gay together with a lady on April 2003 arrived at his parents' house in Thonze. San Naing (a) Ye Thiha met with his nephew Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay and enticed him into committing destructive acts. The two visited Mandalay and Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda. During the trip, San Naing (a) Ye Thiha made an abortive attempt of detonating two time bombs-one in Mandalay International Airport and another on the platform of Kyaikhtiyo Pagoda. They then arrived in Thonze. San Naing (a) Ye Thiha taught Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay how to use the time bombs, and gave him the two time bombs and a bomb in ball pen shape that have now been seized and K 60,000 for expenses. San Naing (a) Ye Thiha left instructions to Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay to detonate bombs at Bagan-NyaungU Airport with the prime target of hindering from tourist arrival there. San Naing (a) Ye Thiha then left for Maesot, Thailand.

Zar Naing Tun enticed Zaw Myo Htet (a) Zaw Zaw, one of his friends, into taking part in the destructive acts with money. Under the instructions of San Naing (a) Ye Thiha by phone, the two went to Bagan-NyaungU on 18 May 2003. They made an abortive attempt of blowing up Bagan-NyaungU Airport but they planted a time bomb on the uppermost floor of Bagan Archaeological Museum on 21 May. The security personnel defused the bomb in time before it went off.

On 26 June 2003, the two with one time bomb which was then kept in Gyobingauk went to Yangon. When they are planning to detonate the bomb at Mingalar market they made contact with San Naing (a) Ye Thiha and Naw Aye Mar in Thailand by phone, asking for sending expenses to them. Since the expenses could not be yet sent to them they were waiting for the word to make the attempt. They made survey to detonate bombs on 19 July at Yangon City Hall, the Memorial to Fallen Heroes and Mingalar market. They then went back to Thonze. Under the instructions of San Naing (a) Ye Thiha and Naw Aye Mar, Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay arrived in Yangon on 14 July. Members of Military Intelligence Unit arrested him on 16 July while he was making arrangements for detonating bombs in Yangon. Zaw Myo Htet was also arrested together with explosives.

San Naing (a) Ye Thiha was one of those who occupied the cooperative society shop and party unit offices in Thonze during the 1988 disturbance. He was filed as a runaway by Thonze Police Station. He went under ground in 1988 and joined the United Democratic Front and attended explosive course there. He and Thit Lwin (a) Ye Yint on 6 October 1989 hijacked F-28 aircraft of Myanma Airways which was on its way from Myeik to Yangon, and forced the aircraft to land in Thailand. The two discussed to commit a destructive act by detonating bombs with the intention of making the world community to draw attention to Myanmar students, instigating the political arena and stepping up political campaign. The KNU insurgents provided explosives for the plot. During their plot, Thai Police arrested San Naing (a) Ye Thiha on 23 November 1993 together with Mya Zaw (a) Ye Yan Aung, Than Htay and Maung Maung, who hijacked Thai TG-305 flight on 10 November 1990 to India together with explosives. San Naing (a) Ye Thiha escaped from a Thai jail on 27 February 1998. He continued to join with KNU insurgents and anti-government organizations based in Maesot. He together with a woman by the name of Ma Ni (a) Tin Tin Hlaing sneaked into the country and planted a time bomb in the Maha Bandoola Park in Yangon and another one near the telephone exchange on Bo Sun Pat Street. The security personnel managed to defuse the bomb planted in the park in time. But, the one planted near the telephone exchange went off killing one YCDC staff and injuring three others.

San Naing (a) Ye Thiha and Naw Aye Mar visited their parents in Thonze after planting mines in Yangon and met with Zar Naing Tun (a) Phyu Lay and hatched the plots.

It was learned that in the beginning of May 2003, General Secretary Phado Mann Shar of KNU insurgent group and Naw Aye Mar, DPNS Chairman Aung Moe Zaw and ABSDF Vice Chairman Kyaw Ko, who were operating in Maesok, Thailand, met and arranged to send bombers together with explosives to perpetrate the destructive acts in accord with the struggle with mass involvement. It was learnt that they hatched the plot to detonate bombs at eight separate places in Yangon on Arzani Day. According to information received Nay Win (a) Naing Yetkha, son of U Kyaing, of Kanni Village, Kawkareik Township, Myo Htway (a) Gyinga Kaung, son of U Aung Sein, of Panga Village, Thanphyuzayat Township, Aung Lun, son of U Bo Gyi, of Lagunein Street, Myaing Thaya Myothit, Mawlamyine, Shwe Mann (a) Zeya Oo, son of U Htaung Pay, of 5th Mon Sanpya Street, Hinthakon Ward, Bago, Than Tun, son of U Tun Shin, 9th Mon Sanpya Street, and Myo Chit, son of U Myat Tun, 1st Saikpyoyay Street, Ward 45, Dagon Myothit (South) were arrested on 17 July on the first floor of Building No 4, Mahlwagon Street, Ahtet Ward, Kyaukmyaung, Tamway Township together with two time bombs hidden in the lunch box, three mines in the form of album, two time bombs in the shape of compass box, two handguns made in Thailand and three hand grenades.

Upon investigation, the seized explosives were the ones sent by KNU General Secretary Phado Mann Shar and Naw Aye Mar to commit destructive acts in accordance with the struggle with mass involvement. The arrested bombers arrived in Yangon to detonate bombs at least at five separate places in Yangon on 19 July. They also made survey to blow up houses of some members of the State Peace and Development Council. While hatching the plots, they were arrested by the authorities concerned on 17 July.

Further information led to the arrest of Min Kyi (a) Naing Min Kyi, son of U Thein Maung, of Maga Street, Ward 18, Hinthagon, Bago, Aye Myint, son of U Ohn Maung, of 6th Street, Alinyaung Ward 1, Nandawya, Bago, and Thet Zaw (a) Zaw Thet Htwe, son of U Ko Lay, West Race Course Street, Bo Sein Hman Ward, Tamway Township, who are launching UG campaign in accord with the struggle with mass involvement.

Upon investigation, it was learnt that they made contacts with Lwan Ni (a) Kyaw Kyaw with the rank of member of ABSDF Central Committee, Maung Maung (a) Pyi Thit Nyunt Wai of FTUB and Aung Moe Zaw of DPNS and sent fabricated news to them. It was also learnt that Min Kyi (a) Naing Min Kyi met Maung Maung (a) Pyi Thit Nyunt Wai and Zar Ni Thway of FTUB through Shwe Mann (a) Zeya Oo. Min Kyi (a) Naing Min Kyi sent some 30 copies of publications carrying fabricated news to FTUB under the name of Min Dhamma. The FTUB gave K 150,000 to Min Kyi (a) Naing Min Kyi for his performance. The FTUB gave a satellite phone to Min Kyi and Shwe Mann to enable them to send news to it. Min Kyi and Shwe Mann went to Maesot, Thailand, and met with Maung Maung (a) Pyi Thit Nyunt Wai who gave instructions to them to form small groups in the nation to collect news. Under the arrangements of Maung Maung (a) Pyi Thit Nyunt Wai, Min Kyi and Shwe Mann sent fabricated news on purchase of paddy by the government to RFA on the phone. Upon investigation, it was learnt that they had the plots to organize hard cores and to learn underground activities in the nation for implementing the struggle with mass involvement. In addition, members of Military Intelligence Unit exposed and arrested Saw Kha Be (a) Saw Mya Sein with the rank of sergeant of No 2 Brigade of KNU, who was in Toungoo to detonate bombs, at the house of Saw Si Du in Ward 20, Toungoo, on 23 July.

Upon investigation, it was learnt that Saw Kha Be (a) Saw Mya Sein was in Toungoo under the directives of Ar Si (a) Me Ein Sein with the rank of No 2 Brigade Commander of KNU. He left No 2 Brigade and arrived at Toungoo on 22 July. He stayed at the house where he was arrested and made arrangements to blow up the communication tower and a building on No 1 BEHS Street. It was learnt that the bomb explosion at the cinema in Pyu on 15 May 2003 and the time bomb explosion near Sasana Hitakayi Dhamma Beikman in Toungoo on 27 June were under the istructions of Ar Si (a) Me Ein Sein.

The authorities concerned arrested nine bombers and three UGs together with four plates of C4 gunpowder, one fuse, one ball pen-shaped bomb, two time bombs hidden in a lunch box, three photo album mines, two time bombs in the shape of compass box, two handguns made in Thailand, three hand grenades and one satellite phone.

Vice-Chief of Military Intelligence Maj-Gen Kyaw Win said arrests of destructive elements sent by terrorists and anti-government organizations and related persons together with explosives were reported in detail. He said he would give further reports in connection with the arrests.

Information had been received in advance that terrorists and anti-government organizations would send a number of saboteurs to commit destruction in connection with Arzani Day.

Therefore arrangements on security were made and inquiries were also made. Their schemes were exposed before committing destruction and they were planned with ill intention. Organizations such as SURA, KNPP, ALP, CNF and ABSDF, a terrorist insurgent group under the name of students, NLD expartriate group and Democratic Party for New Society led by KNU, held meetings at the end of 2002 and participated in military and political movements.

They drew a fighting project for the people in order to create uprising among the people in the country. In the project, NCGUB of expartriate Sein Win, forces of NCUB led by Bo Mya, NLD and above-ground political organizations, peace organizations, student youths, members of the Sangha, workers, farmers, intellectuals and intelligentsia were regarded as fighting forces.

The project also included support and participation in mass movement by NLD and above-ground political parties and cooperation with NCBU, NLD and internal political forces, peace organizations and international forces. The saboteurs arrested were sent to the country to implement the project. Their intention was not destruction only. It was found that they were making plans to create public uprising in the country as UGs.

Their scheme aimed at creating disturbances and taking the people to the streets after making contact with NLD. Only those who were involved in it would know whether Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and NLD leaders knew the scheme or if there was any contact or not.

It was obvious the movements of the struggle with mass involvement led to political activities of NLD. Due to the project, if there were disturbances in the streets, atrocities like 1988 would surely occur . All the people do not want such situations at all and they will never accept such situations in any way.


The insurgents and anti-government organizations abroad will surely make attempts to their delight to create such situations. But, the government is to prevent the nation and the people from falling into such situations. Thus, severe action will be taken against those arrested. The authorities concerned will continue to expose and take action against those who jeopardize peace and stability of the State in collusion with the insurgents and anti-government organizations abroad.

Maj-Gen Kyaw Win, Deputy Minister U Khin Maung Win, Brig-Gen Than Tun of the Ministry of Defence and Col San Pwint replied to the queries raised by the journalists and the press conference ended at 11 am.

Next, the journalists viewed maps showing the route along which explosives were brought in, documentary photos of the bombers, the seizures of those in contact with the anti-government organizations.


MIDC Bank holds eighth annual general meeting

YANGON, 26 July - The eighth annual general meeting of Myanma Industrial Development Bank was held at the bank on Pansodan Street this morning.

Present were member of the State Peace and Development Council Quartermaster-General Lt-Gen Thiha Thura Tin Aung Myint Oo of the Ministry of Defence, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin, Minister for Industry-1 U Aung Thaung, Chairman of the Bank Minister for Industry-2 Maj-Gen Saw Lwin, Minister for Science and Technology U Thaung, deputy ministers, members of BOD, share-holders and guests.

First, Minister Maj-Gen Saw Lwin gave a speech. Next, Managing Director of the Bank U Aung Chit and officials presented reports to the meeting.

They selected new members of BOD for 2003-2004.

The profits for 2002-2003 will be given to the share-holders at the bank beginning 28 July.


Measures for greening environs of Yangon International Airport coordinated

YANGON, 26 July - Department of Civil Aviation under the Ministry of Transport held a coordination meeting greening the environs of Yangon International Airport at the Aung Nyunt hall of the airport this morning. Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe made an opening speech on the occasion.

It was also attended by Deputy Minister for Transport Brig-Gen Kyaw Myint, Director-General of DCA U Win Maung and officials of the respective ministries and Yangon City Development Committee.

At the meeting, the deputy minister, the director-general and officials reported on tasks being undertaken.

Next, the minister fulfilled the requirements and made closing remarks.

Afterwards, the minister and party inspected the oil-palm trees planted along the border of the airport and gave necessary instructions. The minister also inspected the plantations of flowery plants between the runway and the taxi way and cutting of grass.


'Knowledge Bank' paper reading session held

YANGON, 26 July - The 'Knowledge Bank' paper reading session, organized by Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association, was held at Sarpay Beikman building on Merchant Street at noon today.
MWJA Vice-Chairman U Tin Kha (Tekkatho Tin Kha), joint-secretaries, CEC members and enthusiasts attended the session.

Joint-Secretary U Myint Kywe (Maung Myint Kywe) and CEC member Daw Khin Than Win acted as masters of ceremonies.

At the session, resource person Dr Tin Tun Oo presented paper on SARS disease.

Afterwards, the vice-chairman spoke words of thanks and the ceremony ended.


International Relations

Myanma delegation arrives back

YANGON, 26 July - The Myanmar delegation led by Chairman of Central Committee for Drug Abuse Control Minister for Home Affairs Col Tin Hlaing arrived back here by air this evening after attending the Narcotic Drugs Control Ministerial and Senior Officials Meeting of Thailand, Myanmar, Lao PDR, China and India in Chaing Rai, Thailand.

The delegation was welcomed back at the airport by Minister at the State Peace and Development Council Chairman's Office Brig-Gen Abel, Minister for Cooperative Lt-Gen Tin Ngwe, Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brig-Gen Thura Myint Maung, departmental heads and families of the delegation.

Members of the delegation Brig-Gen Kyaw Thein of the Ministry of Defence and Police Head of CCDAC and Drug Elimination Department Police Col Kham Aung also arrived back on the same flight.
HOME
ARCHIVE