YANGON, 18 Oct - A mass rally, organized by Union Solidarity and Development Association, was held in support of the Prime Minister's clarification on seven policies and programmes of the State (roadmap) in Myeik, Taninthayi Division, this morning.

Present on the occasion were Central Executive Committee members of USDA, the secretaries and executives of Taninthayi Division, Myeik District, Dawei District and Kawthoung District USDAs, members of township USDAs of the three districts, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, Working Committee for Women's Affairs, War Veterans Organization, Red Cross Society and Auxiliary Fire Brigade, departmental staff, faculties of Myeik University, teachers and students of basic education schools, national entrepreneurs, farmers, workers and local people totalling over 18,700.

Before the mass rally, Bayintnaung column comprising members of USDA, social organizations and people led by column leader Myeik District USDA Executive U Kyaw Htay Win marched into the Myoma Sports Ground from the gymnasium and took their designated places.

Similarly, Anawrahta column comprising flag bearers, band troupe, USDA members, departmental staff, students and people led by column leader Myeik District USDA Joint-Secretary U Min Thein marched into the Myoma Sports Ground from Masoeyein Monastery and took their designated places.

Likewise, Aungzeya column comprising flag bearers, band troupe, members of MCWA and people led by column leader Myeik Township USDA Executive U Than Wai marched into the Myoma Sports Ground from BEHS 3 and took their designated places.

Similarly, Bandoola column comprising flag bearers, band troupe, nurses, members of WCWA, teachers and people led by column leader Myeik Township USDA Executive U Soe Naing marched into the Myoma Sports Ground from the office of Livestock Breeding and Veterinary Department and took their designated places.

At the rally, Pro-Rector of Myeik University U Khin Maung Cho presided over the mass rally together with Taninthayi Division USDA Joint-Secretary U Win Swe, townselder U Aw, entrepreneur Thudhamma Manijotadhara U Maung Hla and Myeik Township MCWA President Dr Aye Aye Thein as members. Myeik District USDA Executive Daw Aye Aye Min acted as master of ceremonies and Myeik Township USDA Executive Daw Khaing Zin Oo as co-master of ceremonies.

First, the master of ceremonies announced the commencement of the mass rally.

Afterwards, Chairman of the mass rally Pro-Rector U Khin Maung Cho made a speech.

He said the Prime Minister clarified matters relating to the future policies and programmes of the State on 30 August, 2003. In the first part of his speech he explained about all-round development of the State from the time of taking over the State duties by the Tatmadaw government to this date with reliable facts and figures.

In the second part, he touched on political developments of the State.

In the third part, the Prime Minister spoke about the seven-point political programmes which will be implemented for the emergence of a modern, developed and democratic State that corresponds to the political, economic and social conditions of the country and is based on Myanmar's historical background and experiences as well as the culture and civilization of the people.

Steps for nation-building tasks are as follows: (1) Reconvening of the National Convention that has been adjourned since 1996. (2) After the successful holding of the National Convention, step by step implementation of the process necessary for the emergence of a genuine and discipline-flourishing democratic system. (3) Drafting of a new constitution in accordance with basic principles and detailed basic principles laid down by the National Convention. (4) Adoption of the constitution through national referendum. (5) Holding of free and fair elections for Pyithu Hluttaws (Legislative bodies) according to the new constitution. (6) Convening of Hluttaws attended by Hluttaw members in accordance with the new constitution. (7) Building a modern, developed and democratic nation by the state leaders elected by the Hluttaw; and the government and other central organs formed by the Hluttaw.

These seven-point programmes are the own ones that have been laid down by the State Peace and Development Council in the interests of the State and its people.

These programmes and the four political objectives out of the twelve objectives that have been presented to the people constantly are in essence, the same.

In the seven-point programmes, there include two essential needs-the successful holding of the National Convention and emergence of an enduring State Constitution.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe, on one occasion, said that whatever system a nation prictises, it needs to be based on an enduring State Constitution that must serve the interests of the entire citizens.

Therefore, coordination meetings were held with the political parties and the elected representatives for three times in June 1992 for the convening of the National Convention. It was aimed at obtaining good advice with positive attitude.

At the plenary meeting held in 1992, matters relating to sending out invitations to the representatives to the National Convention were discussed. After holding several meetings in all parts of the country, the invitations were sent.

On 10 July 1992, Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Than Shwe cordially greeted the elected representatives from the political parties who attended the coordination meeting for holding the National Convention at the meeting room of the Presidential Residence on Ahlon Road. The National Convention commenced held in 1993.

At a time when efforts were made for drawing the State Constitution at the National Convention, 86 representatives of National League for Democracy walked out of the National Convention on 29 November 1995. As a result, the National Convention was adjourned temporarily. But now, the entire citizens are glad to know that there will be the resuming of the National Convention which was adjourned temporarily.

Only after successful holding of the National Convention and measures are being taken step by step, will there be drawing of the enduring State Constitution that is essential for the State.

After the emergence of the enduring State Constitution and efforts are being made step by step for nation-building task, the ultimat objective- emergence of a modern, developed discipline-flourishing democratic nation- will be achieved:

Democracy that Myanmar will accept and practise are as follow: 1. Democracy that practises freedom under disciplines within the framework of the law. 2. Democracy that is in conformity with political, economic and social structures of the State. 3. Democracy that is in line with the historical traditions of the State and culture and custom of the people. 4. Democracy that guarantees Union Spirit and Our Three Main National Causes. 5. Democracy that creates equal results for all national races within the framework of national solidarity.

In summing up, all the national people are glad to know that the seven-point programmes stated in the Prime Minister's speech will be implemented soon and they also are looking forward to the success of the seven-point programmes. At a time when the seven-point programmes are being implemented, it is very important to guard with the strength of the people against various dangers posed by destructive elements who do not want to see peace, unity and development of the State. At such a time like this efforts are being made to build new democratic nation, I would like to urge all the national people to actively participate with full sense of Union Spirit in the successful implementation of the programmes.

Tabling a motion calling for the active participation of the entire people by doing their bit in implementing the seven-stage future policy and programme of the State with strong Union Spirit, U Moe Myint, Secretary of Myeik Township USDA, said that the Prime Minister on 30 August delivered a speech that is crucially important for the State's future. Making clarifications on all-round progress of the State, the Prime Minister divided his address into three parts. The government changed its economic system from the centralized economic system into the market-oriented economic system, which is in conformity with the national economic plans. Simultaneously, it has been constructing basic economic foundations as well as roads, river and creek-crossing bridges, dams and reservoirs, universities, colleges and hospitals the length and breadth of the nation. Resulting from the government's intensive and relentless endeavours, the nation's GDP has recuperated. The nation's GDP in 1988-89 was K 47,000 million only. Later, the nation is cumulatively gaining annual GDP development rate up to 11.1 per cent in 2002-2003. At the end of 2002-2003 fiscal year, the per capita income of the nation was K 105,940.

The government encouraged the private sector, creating more job opportunities. In 1988, a total of around 19 million people were employed, compared with 29 million people now, reflecting the government's strenuous efforts for raising the living standard of the entire people.

In a bid to promote the industrial and other sectors with development of agriculture as the base, the government gave emphasis on extension of sown acreage, utilization of hybrid strains and irrigation of cultivable land. As a result, the paddy output in 2000-2001 was more than 1,000 million baskets, in comparison with 684 million baskets in 1988. And emergence of 151 dams and reservoirs and 265 river water pumping stations has helped the nation put some 2.9 million acres under crops. Moreover, 38 irrigation facility projects are under implementation and arrangements are being made for construction of 84 more dams and reservoirs.

The government provided necessary assistance for the meat and fish sector, which is prosperous in the nation. So, the fish and prawn output has increased from 681,000 tons in 1987-1988 to 1,579,000 tons in 2002-2003. So have the sectors of forestry, rail transportation, construction and communication. It has been witnessed by the entire people, he noted.

After taking up the State's responsibilities, the Tatmadaw gave priority to restoration of the normal life in the whole country. Realizing the genuine goodwill of the government, a total of 17 national races armed groups had returned to the legal fold and now they are participating in nation-building endeavours. Indeed, it is an invaluable result which had never been achieved in successive eras.

In his speech, the Prime Minister said that border area development projects are being implemented in 68 townships of 18 regions in 14 States and Divisions. It covers over 83,000 squire miles, benefiting over 5.3 million national people.

Now, such border towns as Panwa in Kachin State, Laukkai, Namtit, Panghsan and Mongla in Shan State, which lagged behind in development in the past, have substantially developed with modern buildings, international level hotels and supermarkets, enhancing the spirit of national solidarity and flourishing Union Spirit among the national brethren.

The Prime Minister, in his speech, gave a brief account of the State's political development. The people will never accept any circumstances which undermine the already-restored peace and tranquillity. The government has been making efforts to develop the best possible democracy in future Myanmar through a thorough study of strong and weak points of democratic system practised in the past, and to treat the historical wounds that have not yet well healed. Building up a democratic nation should be based on the historical background of objective conditions of the respective nation, and so a democratic system of a country cannot be copied. Basically, human and natural resources, investments, technologies and tranquil environs play a main role in building up a new nation. Tranquil environs mean political stability, the most basic need to shape the future of the nation. The State Constitution or the State's basic principles, which prescribe rights and authority for the government, head of State, and citizens, are of paramount importance for the future of the State.

The Prime Minister publicly announced in his speech that the State's future political stages are its roadmap. The internal and external elements holding negative views are making malicious comments on the State's seven policies and programmes, but no one can controvert that these points are not suitable and true.

The government has been implementing the 12 objectives to build up a modern developed nation. In other words, the government has been constructing the correct path leading to the national goal. Every duty-conscious citizen serves the long-term interest of the nation and the people through the correct path. The Prime Minister publicly announced that in an endeavour to build up a peaceful, modern and developed nation, firm economic infrastructures have been established for strengthening of national economic life, and all are thus to strive forward by utilizing the natural resources inside the country together with the resources of intellectuals, technicians and the united strength of the people.

The democratic system to be practised in Myanmar must be the system that represents freedom in accord with rules and regulations within the framework of law; the system that is in harmony with the State's political, economic and social infrastructures; the system that is in conformity with the nation's background history, traditions and culture; the system that guarantees Our Three Main National Causes through Union Spirit; and especially the system that equally benefits all the national races within the bounds of national solidarity.

The most important factor in building a new, peaceful, modern, developed and democratic nation is the emergence of a discipline-flourishing democratic system that does not harm the historical traditions of the Union of the national races living in unison and harmony for thousands of years; that does not harm the national prestige and integrity of our people and nation; and that does not effect the national characteristics of our people. In conclusion, he tabled the motion, calling on the entire people being fully equipped with Union Spirit to actively and enthusiastically take part in successful implementation of the State's seven future policies and programmes.

Associate Professor Daw San Yi of Myeik University seconded the motion calling on the entire national people to actively participate in any sector for the successful implementation of the seven-stage future policy of the State with full sense of Union Spirit.

She said: there were three parts in the speech of Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt. In the first part, it touched on the development of the State achieved with the united efforts of the entire national people. In the second part, it dealt with the obstacles hindering the political progress. Political processes required for the emergence of a developed, modern, and democratic nation were mentioned in the third part of the speech.

The Prime Minister presented the economic, social and political developments of the State gained after the assumption of the State duties by the Tatmadaw Government. I would like to support the speech of the Prime Minister by presenting the development of Taninthayi Division.

In the agriculture sector, cultivated acreage of the division increased from over 486,000 acres previously to over 670,000 acres now, adding about 200,000 acres, and paddy production of the division reached 16.7 million baskets.

While striving for the self-sufficiency of paddy, irrigation facilities have been constructed in the division.

The division being a region suitable for cultivation of oil-palm, a total of 110,000 acres of oil-palms have been cultivated in the division thanks to the active involvement of 16 entrepreneurs groups. Arrangements are also under way to further grow oil-palms in the division and it will become one of the oil suppliers of the country in the near future.

As a result of extended cultivation of rubber, an industrial crop, total acreage of rubber in the division exceeded 140,000 acres.

The meat and fish sector of the division earns the State millions of dollar from export. Sea prawn and fish breeding, which was not carried out previously in the division, also met with success now. Companies such as Aquafarm, Ngwepinle, Vintage, Asaungkong and Yuzana are arranging the extended plans for sea prawn breeding.

Coastal and off-shore fish production of the division gradually increased yearly and now it reached over 500,000 tons, exceeding the local consumption. The division is able to export surplus fish every year.

Successful pearl culture and production of six local and foreign companies in the division rises up to 72,000 momme from 7,300 momme in the past. A total of 683 livestock farmers in the division have raised over 986,000 layers. In the industrial sector, industrial zones in the division are now manufacturing motor vehicles.

In the road and bridge sector, total length of roads in the division increased from 397 miles to 664 miles, showing an increase of 267 miles of length. Four bridges with the length of 180 feet and above including Winwa bridge, Palauk bridge, Palaw bridge and Taninthayi bridge have been built in the division, while completed Lenya-Mandaing bridge and 3612-feet long Kyeku-Kyaukphya bridge are not opened. On completion of Thanlwin Bridge (Mawlamyine), the Union Highway connecting the southernmost part of the country, Kawthoung, to the northernmost part, Putao, will be serviceable. As the railroad has been constructed in the division, local people can travel along Yay-Dawei railroad now.

Pleasant Mongmagan beach complete with white sandy coast is the distinctive feature of the division. There are other interesting beaches and islands in the division. Lanpi island and Dome island, and diving skill of Salon nationals are also fascinating and suitable destinations for adventure tours. Salon festival to be held on Lanpi island in February 2004 is attracting the attention of foreign tourists. On Salon island near Kawthoung, the breeding and training of dolphins is also successful. With such favourable conditions for tourism, the industry of the division will develop soon.

In the education sector, number of schools in the division has increased from 962 to 1,109, showing an increase of 147 schools, while that of teachers reached 5,018, which stood at 3451 in the past. Number of students increased by 93,196, up from 147,070 in the past to 240,266 now. A total of 14 multimedia class rooms have been opened in the division. Arrangements are also under way to open multimedia class rooms in the division. To be in accord with the Myanma education goal, eleven electronic learning centres have been set up in the division.

In the higher education sector, seven institutes of higher learning including two universities and five colleges have been opened; local parents and students are pleased with the arrangements of the government, and number of students of higher education has risen from 1174 previously to 11207 at present while that of teachers increased from 47 in the past to 457 now.

In the health sector, a total of 23 hospitals in the division are providing healthcare services for the people instead of 17 hospitals in the past, while number of health personnel increased from 470 to 817 now.

Border areas all over the country have developed in all sectors like those of Taninthayi Division. I would like to earnestly support the point that the adjourned National Convention is to be reconvened or the first phase of the political programme included in the speech of the Prime Minister is to be implemented.

In accord with the six objectives, a total of over 700 representatives of the eight categories of representatives of the National Convention, starting from 9-1-93, had held discussions at the National Convention. Basic principles required for drawing the state constitution could be laid down with due deliberation and patience at the National Convention then. These basic principles are as important as the soul of the Union of Myanmar. Therefore, efforts must be exerted for the emergence of the enduring State Constitution free from weakness and loopholes and perpetually reliable.

Emergence of the new enduring state constitution is indispensable necessity for the State and the entire people. It is also required to strictly observe the guidance of Senior General Than Shwe that whatever system the State practises, it needs to be based on state constitution that perpetually contributes towards the interests of the entire national people.

Many legal scholars and political scientists at home and abroad have defined the essence of a constitution from various aspects. Political scientist Woosey wrote that a constitution is a combined set of basic principles concerning the authority and power of the government, rights of the citizen, and relations between the government and the people.

I am confident that despite the obstacles and hindrances, the future programme of drafting the state constitution in accord with the basic principles and detailed basic principles laid down by the National Convention presented by the Prime Minister, will meet with success thanks to the active participation of the entire national people.

In conclusion, I earnestly support the motion calling on the entire national people to actively participate in any sectors for the successful implementation of the seven-stage future policy of the State.

eadmaster U Tin Maung Swe supported the motion calling on active participation of the entire national people by doing their bit for the successful implementation of the seven policies and programmes. He said: we are very much delighted to know that the Prime Minister described in his address the development of the socio-economic life of Myanmar including the sectors of agriculture, meat and fish, forestry, industry, roads and bridges, transport, communications, electric power, education, technology and health with accurate facts and figures. There is another thing to present that the significant development of border areas, which lagged behind in development in the past, thanks to the strenuous efforts of the Tatmadaw government. Although border area development tasks were carried out first in the regions where peace had prevailed, the tasks also could be implemented later in all the border regions across the country.

Now, the government is carrying out the border area development tasks day in, day out in 18 regions consisting of 68 townships covering 38000 square miles area where over 5.3 million national people reside.

As the tasks include road and bridge construction, education, health, agriculture, livestock breeding electric power, communications and mining, the people of border areas are enjoying the fruitful results of development.

The State has spent over K 45000 million plus US$ 506 million for the border area development tasks from 1989 to 2003. So, there has emerged significant development of all sectors in the border areas.

He said the second part of the Prime Minister's speech dealt with the efforts of the State for national reconsolidation. It is believed that making efforts for regional development, emergence of economic infrastructures and raising of living standard will be very fundamental only after the national unity has been built in the country.

While making efforts for the border area development, the State also could endeavour for national armed groups to return to the legal fold. As a result, 17 national race armed groups returned to the legal fold. The tasks for development of border areas, which could not be carried out by the previous government, can be now implemented in the time of the State Peace and Development Council, he added.

It is heartening to see that national leaders are participating not only in the task for development of their region but also in the nation-building task. Arrangements were made for convening of the National Convention in 1992 due to the prevalence of peace and national unity in the country.

National Convention is the forum in which the basic principles are to be discussed and sought for to be able to draw a constitution in shaping the democratic nation. National Convention was attended by political parties, representatives-elect, national race representatives of states and divisions, intellectuals and intelligentsia, departmental personnel and representatives form all walks of life. Political parties and politicians were permitted to officially make discussions and to make known their wishes at the convention. The convention also invited the participation of political forces. The aim of convening the National Convention is the emergence of a future discipline-flourishing democratic state.

It is important for our country to successfully convene the National Convention and to bring out a new enduring constitution of the State. Only when the National Convention is convened successfully, can the constitution of the State be drafted based on the basic principles resulting the convention. All the national people are looking forward to the success of the State's constitution, which will be drafted by the National Convention comprising multi-parties, the people of all strata and national representatives, in accord with the six objectives. That is why reconvening of the National Convention is the national duty of all citizens.

The seven-point political roadmap of the State clarified by the Prime Minister is the correct path for emergence of the genuine democratic system.

He went on to say that as Myanmar is made up of over 100 national races, it is important for national races to live in the country with dignity and peace of mind.

The supremacy of constitution is first and foremost requisite for various national races to be able to live in the Union with peace of mind, he said. It is also needed to emerge a complete constitution and all the national people are to safeguard it.

Because the State's constitution drafted in 1947 had its weaknesses, it lasted only for 14 years from 1948 to 1962. Similarly, the 1974 constitution also lasted 14 years from 1974 to 1988 as it was not in accord with the passage of time. Therefore, all our national people, drawing the lessons from the past, are urged to do their bit with unity for the emergence of a new enduring constitution which can serve the interests of the State and the people.

He quoted Head of State Senior General Than Shwe in his guidance, as saying that the entire national people have been living in the same land and drinking water from the same source keeping eggs and nest intact in the course of history. In accord with the saying "blood is thicker than water" the national people drove out every danger to the Union. And this is a significant fact of Myanmar. Union Spirit has been flourishing in Myanmar through the tap-roots of patriotism and nationalism.

For the emergence of the constitution in accordance with the guidance, emphasis is to be placed on crushing every danger and destructive act, he said.

In conclusion, he said he emphatically seconded the motion tabled by U Moe Myint calling for active participation of the entire national people by doing their bit for the successful implementation of the seven policies and programmes of the State.

Afterwards, the chairman sought the approval of the mass rally concerning the motion calling for active participation of the entire people by doing their bit in implementing the seven-stage future policy and programme of the State with strong Union Spirit tabled by U Moe Myint.

The master of ceremonies announced the resolutions of the mass rally calling for active participation of the entire people by doing their bit in implementing the seven-stage future policy and programme of the State with strong Union Spirit.

The mass rally concluded by chanting of the slogans.

YANGON, 18 Oct - Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt, together with member of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the Chief of Staff (Navy), deputy ministers, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office and departmental officials, left here by helicopter this morning and arrived at Shwehlay Sluice Gate construction site in Kawa Township, Bago Division. The Prime Minister and party were welcomed there by Chairman of Bago Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Southern Command Brig-Gen Ko Ko and officials.

At the briefing hall, Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin and Director-General U Kyaw San Win of the Irrigation Department reported to the Prime Minister on facts about the project and measures being taken to build the sluice gate.

Commanders Maj-Gen Myint Swe and Brig-Gen Ko Ko reported on matters relating to increasing sown acreage in Yangon and Bago Divisions out of benefited 35,000 acres on completion of the sluice gate.

Afterwards, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt met with members of Township Peace and Development Council, townselders and farmers and asked about the conditions of education, health, economy and agriculture and livestock breeding in the region.

The local people reported to the Prime Minister on benefits that will be achieved by the sluice gate projects and regional development sectors of transportation, education and health.

After fulfilling the requirements, the Prime Minister said that the State is taking various measures to raise the socio-economic life of farmers. On completion of Shwehlay Sluice Gate, there will emerge new cultivable land. Moreover, the sluice gate will prevent flood and flowing of brine into the fields it experienced in the rainy season. Extended cultivation of monsoon paddy will be conducted as well as water needed for growing summer paddy be available. It is necessary to use the prevailing good conditions, he stressed.

The Prime Minister went on to say that more rural roads are being built to develop education and health sectors.

The Prime Minister spoke of the needs of officials to take measures with goodwill for regional development and raising the living standard of farmers.

Next, Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt and party inspected the construction tasks of Shwehlay Sluice Gate.

With 40 valves each with the width of 6x16 feet and a gate with the width of 22 feet, the sluice gate is located at the confluence of Hsema Creek and Bago River in Kawa Township, Bago Division.

In the rainy season, the region has faced floods every year. Shwehlay Sluice Gate will prevent floods in the rainy season and it will also prevent brine and silt carried by Bago River. Moreover, it will supply water to 35,000 acres of summer paddy.

The Prime Minister and party, on board the helicopter, viewed digging of canals for proper flow of water into the wetlands of Twantay, Kawhmu and Kungyangon Townships, the chosen site for construction of a bridge, fish breeding ponds and cultivation in wetlands in Shwemayin region in Twantay Township, cultivation in Bawlekyun wetlands in Htantabin Township and the fish breeding ponds.

On arrival at the briefing hall of Land Reclamation Project in Bawlekyun Wetland in Kyaman Village, Htantabin Township, Yangon Division, the Prime Minister and party were welcomed by local authorities and officials.

Chairman of Dagon Agriculture and Livestock Breeding Group U Win Aung reported to the Prime Minister on land reclamation for 4,000 acres in Aikalaungkyun in Taikkyi Township and 8,000 acres in Bawlekyun in Htantabin Township under Wetland Reclamation and Agriculture and Livestock Breeding Project, digging of tributary and main canals, building river water pumping station, land reclamation and cultivation on the land year-wise, digging of fish breeding ponds, conditions of fish breeding business and regional development tasks.

Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe presented a supplementary report on increase in sown acreage in the rainy season for greening the environs and cultivation of paddy and other crops in the 30-mile radius of Yangon, arrangements being made for supply of water to townships located in the 30-mile radius area for growing summer paddy, present conditions for extended cultivation of summer paddy by dredging the existing canals and creeks, plans for growing other crops on the land where paddy cannot be grown and digging of fish breeding ponds.

The Prime Minister and party inspected the water pumping station which supplies water to paddy fields from Bawle River.

Next, the Prime Minister met with headmistress of Kyaman Village Basic Education Primary School and gave instructions to officials on renovation of the school.

The Prime Minister and party proceeded to the site of Mahuya (Ngamoeyeik) Supporting Dam project in Hlegu Township in Yangon Division.

Minister Maj-Gen Nyunt Tin reported to the Prime Minister on inflow of water and water storage capacity of Ngamoeyeik Dam, its contribution to agriculture, arrangements being made to supply water from the dam not only for agricultural purpose but also for household use in Yangon, measures being taken to generate electricity from Ngamoeyeik Dam and arrangements being made to supply water to Nga-moeyeik Dam by building Mahuya dam and Paunglin Dam for ensuring the Ngamoeyeik Dam to be able to conduct its work in full capacity.

Director-General U Kyaw San Win reported on facts about Mahuya (Ngamoeyeik). Supporting Dam and work done. The Prime Minister gave instructions saying that as Ngamoeyeik Dam was built with the aim of supplying water to Yangon, measures are to be taken for keeping the natural resources of Ngamoeyeik region intact. He also gave instructions on conservation of the watershed areas of the region.

>From the observation tower, the Prime Minister and party inspected the construction of Mahuya (Ngamoeyeik) Supporting Dam.

They arrived back here in the afternoon.

YANGON, 18 Oct - The National Poison Control Centre in the compound of Medical Research Department (Lower Myanmar) on Ziwaka Road here was opened this morning with an address by Chairman of the National Health Committee Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt.

Also present on the occasion were Vice-Chairmen of NHC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Soe Win and Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Thein Sein, Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, the NHC members, the Yangon Mayor, deputy ministers, members of the National Poison Control Central Committee, the Work Committee and the Sub-Committees, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of department, rectors of the institutes of medicine and the Defence Services Institutes of Medicine, the President, Chairmen and vice-chairmen of Myanmar Maternal and Child Welfare Association, the National Commission for Environmental Affairs, Myanmar Red Cross Society (Central), Myanmar Medical Association, Myanmar Academy of Medical Science, Myanmar Dental Surgeons Association, and Myanmar Nurses Association , the medical superintendents of the hospitals in Yangon, officials of WHO and UNICEF, departmental officials, guests and others.

First, Vice-Chairmen of NHC Secretary-1 Lt-Gen Soe Win and Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Thein Sein formally opened the centre.

Next, the Prime Minister and party inspected the Chemical Toxicology Research Division, the Poison Information Laboratory, the Analytical Toxicology Laboratory, the Pharmaceutical Toxicology Research Division, the Sample Preparation Poison Screening Laboratory, the Biological Toxicology Research Division and the Radiation Toxicology Research Division on the first floor of the centre.

Next, the opening ceremony was held at the meeting hall of the MRD. Chairman of NHC Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt made a speech. He said that the opening of the NPCC of international level amounts to establishment of a basic foundation by the government to protect the people from the danger of poison, a health problem that has widely occurred in the world but not yet in Myanmar. It was thanks to the goodwill of the government that has been making efforts for improvement of the public health care services, he added.

The government, relying on own national force, is striving for enabling the nation to stand shoulder to shoulder with the nations of the world. At such a time, it is fulfilling all necessary requirements in public health care services for enabling the entire national people to be fit and healthy and participate in nation-building endeavours, and to enjoy the fruitful results of national development with peace of mind.

Keeping pace with the advancement of science and technology, measures are being taken to provide the effective medical care to the public, using advanced health education, modern diagnosis and treatment and sophisticated hospital equipment.

In addition, the government has been taking constant steps to protect the people from unusual diseases that widely occur in the world. Thus, the government has been constantly reviewing the public health care services to be in conformity with the current situation to be able to face the health challenges and health hazards. In the process, the National Poison Control Centre has been opened. Nowadays, medicines, foods, agricultural and industrial raw materials, and personal goods are widely produced with the use of chemicals and organic matters, gas and rays. These could touch off poisoning. At the same time, various items produced with the use of chemicals and organic matters are being used widely in developing nations.

The fertilizer, pesticide, fruits and foods preserved with chemical and biological technology, and medicines produced with the use of chemicals and organic matters tend to pose a threat to man and environment. Furthermore, terrorism resorting to chemical and biological matters occurs in some countries of the world. Therefore, control and monitoring of poisoning plays a crucial role in taking preventive measures.

That is why the respective countries in the world have been taking measures to form the poison control centres to prevent the poisoning.

At such a time, the National Poison Control Centre has emerged in accord with the guidance of Head of State Senior General Than Shwe who called for establishment of a poison control and research centre of international level in Myanmar to prevent the poisoning due to chemical and biological elements and radiation.

At present, the National Poisoning Control Central Committee and the work committees were formed to implement the work programmes for prevention of poisoning, giving effective treatment in case of poisoning, and conducting research on poisoning.

The government is making all-out efforts for the emergence of a modern and developed nation. With agricultural and industrial development, more industrial chemicals and pesticides are being applied. Thus, it is required to make safe and systematic use of them.

Likewise, preventive measures are to be taken to guard against dangers directly posed to the people due to waste chemicals and waste personal goods or environmental pollution.

With the emergence of the international level National Poison Control Centre, the prevention of poisoning will be carried out widely. At the same time, arrangements are being made to form mobile teams to give effective treatment to victims of poisoning.

Public participation plays a leading role in effective prevention of the poisoning although all-round arrangements have been made.

Health education and knowledge is to be widely imparted to the people as well as to the health staff and members of social organizations to enable them to guard against dangers and to inform the health personnel of the danger.

Educative measures need to be taken systematically and widely in cultivating eating habit and healthy living among the people; similarly extensive measures are to be taken in connection with emergency treatment for posioning, danger of chemical poisoning resulting from production, transport and storage.

He urged the officials concerned to take systematic measures in acquisition of the cooperation among governmental departments, cooperation among social organizations as well as active participation of the poison control centres in the region and the world, and in setting up of information network on poisoning.

The government has established the National Poison Control Centre together with the basic infrastructures and organizations for poison control. Therefore, strenuous efforts are to be made for the effective control of the poisoning with use of those basic infrastructures.

In conclusion, he called on the officials concerned to strive for enabling the entire national people to be fit and healthy, using the National Poison Control Centre which has emerged out of the goodwill of the government.

The National Poison Control Centre was opened with the aim of imparting knowledge on poison control to the public, of informing the public of means and ways to take care of the emergency poisoning, of constant monitoring of the possibility of poisoning, of imparting techniques to the health staff to provide effective treatment to victims of poisoning, of conducting research on poisoning and practically using of the research findings, of collecting and exchanging experiences and information between local and foreign academicians.

The National Poison Control Centre was formed under the MRD (Lower Myanmar). It includes the Pharmaceutical Toxicology Research Division, the Chemical Toxicology Research Division, the Biological Toxicology Research Division, and Radiation Toxicology Research Division.

All research divisions are facilitated with the modern equipment of international level.

It will render medical and poisoning information service, pharmaceutical toxicology service, laboratory service, and research and teaching on poisoning. To be able to take measures for prevention of poisoning in Myanmar at any time, the mobile teams have been formed in Yangon.

The environmental sanitation division of Health Department is constantly monitoring the poisoning to guard against worksite poisoning.

Prime Minister visits Fifth International ICT Exhibition 2003

YANGON, 18 Oct - Prime Minister General Khin Nyunt, accompanied by officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, arrived at Tatmadaw Hall on U Wisara Road this afternoon.

The Prime Minister was welcomed there by Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander Maj-Gen Myint Swe, ministers, deputy ministers, members of the board of directors of Myanmar Information and Communication Technology Development Committee and officials of Myanmar Computer Federation, Myanmar Computer Scientists Association and Myanmar Computer Industrialists Association.

The Prime Minister and party viewed round the Fifth International ICT Exhibition 2003, jointly organized by MCF, MCSA and MCIA. Officials conducted them round the exhibition.

Secretary-1 and Secretary-2 meet officials of the Ministry of Transport

YANGON, 18 Oct - Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win and Secretary-2 Lt-Gen Thein Sein met with the minister, deputy ministers and officials of the Ministry of Transport at the meeting hall of the ministry on Strand Road here this morning.

Present on the occasion were Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe, Deputy Ministers U Pe Than and Col Nyan Tun Aung, Officer on Special Duty Brig-Gen Myo Tin, officials of the State Peace and Development Council Office, heads of departments, enterprises, university and institute under the ministry and officials.

First, Minister Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe presented a report to the Secretary-1 and the Secretary-2. In his report, the minister said in implementing the tasks of transportation which is the life-blood of the State, the Ministry of Transport is discharging duties on marine and air transport sectors. In doing so, safety, service and image are designated as the objectives of the ministry. There are five departments, five enterprises, the Institute of Marine Technology and the Myanmar Maritime University under the ministry. The minister also reported on organizational setups of departments, strength of staff and their tasks, tasks of the five enterprises carried out from 1993-94 fiscal year to 2002-2003 fiscal year and passengers and freight transport.

Deputy Director-General of the Transport Department U Win Pe, Director-General of the Marine Administration Department U Soe Win, Deputy Director-General of the Directorate of Water Resources and Improvement of River Systems U Soe Myint, Director-General of the Directorate of Civil Aviation U Win Maung and Director-General of the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology Dr San Hla Baw reported on tasks of their departments being undertaken and staff welfare.

Next, Rector of Myanmar Marine University U Thein Tun and Principal of Institute of Marine Technology U Win Thein reported on teaching and management affairs of their university and institute.

Afterwards, Managing Director of Inland Water Transport U Soe Tint, Managing Director of Myanma Five Star Line U Khin Maung Kyi, Managing Director of Myanma Port Authority U Thein Htay, Managing Director of Myanma Shipyards U Percy Maung Maung and Managing Director of Myanma Airways U Tin Hlaing Hmi reported on tasks of their departments, income and expenditure and staff welfare.

The Secretary-1 gave instructions on their reports.In his discussions, the Secretary-1 said progress on passenger and freight transport has been made according to the report of the ministry. Such achievement was made due to the cooperation of the service personnel at different levels under the leadership of the government. He said continued efforts are to be made for more progress.

He said in the country the Ayeyawady and the Chindwin are transport routes created by nature. He spoke of the need to use the rivers effectively.

Water transport saves cost and carries a large amount of commodities. The Ayeya-wady and the Chindwin are natural resources that much contribute towards the development of not only transport sector but also availability of water and generating of hydro-electric power. Opportunities created by nature must be utilized effectively, he said.

He said experts are to continuously conduct surveys on development of rivers for implementation of the tasks on speedy transport of passengers and commodities with safety, utilization of river water for agricultural purposes and hydro-electric power. In air transport, he also spoke of the need to make arrangements for convenience of the passengers and preventive measures against accidents.

The Ministry of Transport is making endeavours for development of water and air transport and it has established the Institute of Marine Technology and Myanmar Maritime University that can produce human resources on marine technology needed in the future. Therefore there are better prospects for more progress, he added.

He said records and files are stored with the use of modern electronic equipment and computers at the institutes, universities and departments under the ministry.

He gave instructions on effective use of software programmes and preparations for establishment of cable network and e-government in the future.

Next, the Secretary-2 gave instructions. In his discussions, the Secretary-2 said some big nations making use of technological superiority and wealth are attempting to enable small nations to think highly of them, to rely on them and to act under their influence through media. So we are to take care of this fact, he said.

He said political, economic and defence strengths of the nation must be strong in order to prevent above-mentioned dangers. Among the strengths, economic strength which contributes towards political and defence strengths is the most important. This is why the government is implementing the projects for national economic development. The Ministry of Transport is one of the ministries that make efforts for economic development, he added.

He said the ministry is to implement the tasks for achieving success. He called for a balance of income and expenditure, making arrangements for safety and convenience of the passengers, minimizing loss and wastage, supervision for increase of income, making field trips to grassroots levels and fulfilling requirements. He also placed emphasis on thrifty.

The meeting came to a close at 11.30 am.

11th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continue

YANGON, 18 Oct - The 11th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions continued for the fifth day at the designated places today. The song contest of the competitions continued at the National Museum on Pyay road, the dance contest at the National Theatre on Myoma Kyaung road, the song-composing contest at Pantra School on Kaba Aye Pagoda road, the Saing contest (troupe) at Padonma Theatre on Bagaya road, and the Donmin contest at Kanbawza Theatre on Kaba Aye Pagoda road.

The competitions were attended by Secretary-1 of the State Peace and Development Council Lt-Gen Soe Win, Members of the Panel of Patrons of the Committee for Holding the 11th Myanmar Traditional Cultural Performing Arts Competitions Minister for Information Brig-Gen Kyaw Hsan, Minister for Transport Maj-Gen Hla Myint Swe, Minister for Culture Maj-Gen Kyi Aung, Mayor of Yangon Brig-Gen Aung Thein Lin, Vice-Chairman of the Leading Committee Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein, Brig-Gen Than Tun of the Ministry of Defence, Deputy Commander of Yangon Command Col Wai Lwin, Chairman of the Work Committee Commander of No-3 Military Region Col Tint Hsan, officials of work committees and sub-committees, enthusiast and tourists.

The song contest continued at 9 am today. Chairperson of Judges Assistant Director Daw Tin Tin Mya of MRTV, Secretary Assistant Engineer Daw May Pyone Khaing and members made judgements on the performance at the song contest at the National Museum. A total of fourteen contestants participated in the amateur level Maha Gita song contest for women and fifteen contestants in basic education level Maha Gita song contest for boys (age 10-15).

The amateur level Dhammapuza song contest for woman, and professional level classic/modern song contest for men will be held tomorrow. At the dance contest, Chairman of Judges Wunna Kyaw Htin U Sein Aung Min, Secretary Daw Mu Mu Khin and members made judgements on the performance. A total of 14 contestants participated in the higher education level dance contest for man, and 16 contestants in the basic education level dance contest for girls (age 5-10). The rehearsal of songs composed by the contestants were held at the Pantra School on Kaba Aye Pangoda Road this morning. Songs composed by contestants of basic education level song composing contest (age10-15) were rehearsed with the accompaniment of music.

The Saing contest (troupe) was held at the Padonma Theatre in Sangyoung Township this morning. A total of six troupes participated in the basic education level Saing contest for boys (age 5-10) and eight troupes in the basic education level Saing contest for boys (age 10-15). Panel of judges led by U Sein Kyi Moe and U Sein Mutta acted as judges at the contests. A total of seven contestants participated in the professional level Donmin contest for men, and one contestant in the professional level Donmin contest for women. A total of five contestants participated in the basic education level Donmin contest for boys (age 10-15). Panel of judges led by U Khin Lin acted as judges at the contest. The professional level violin contest for man, the professional level violin contest for woman, basic education level violin contest for man (age15-20), basic education level violin contest for woman (age15-20), amateur level violin contest for men, and amateur level violin contest for women will be held at the Kanbawza Theatre tomorrow.

Myanmar Judo team wins one gold, one silver and one bronze

YANGON, 18 Oct - Selected Myanmar Judo team led by U Aung Win, executive of Myanmar Judo Federation won one gold, one silver and one bronze in the Thai International Junior (Under 19) Invitational Judo Contest being held in Thailand from 15 to 20 October.

Aye Aye Aung won the first in 57 kilo division, Nwe Nwe Than the second in 45 kilo division and Thanda Win the third in 48 kilo division. Altogether 14 teams of 11 countries participated in the contest.

Myanmar team will arrive back here tomorrow by air.

YANGON, 18 Oct - The Shwe-saryan Open Golf Championship of Myanmar Golf Tour 2003 continued at Shwesaryan Golf Course in Mandalay this morning.

After the third day 18-hole event, Min Naing (Srixon) and Zaw Paing Oo (Pan-West) led the tour with 217 strokes each in the professional golfers division, followed by Myint Shwe(Wilson) and Zaw Zaw Latt (Pan-west) with 219 each and Nanda Kyaw (YCDC) with 222.

Kyaw Thiha scored first with 226 strokes, Aung Aung Kyaw second with 233 and Myo Min Aung third with 234 in the men's amateur division.