June 25 - July 1, 2012

myanmartimes
Myanmars first international weekly Volume 32, No. 632 1200 Kyats

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Help us as a friend and equal, says Daw Suu

LONDON Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on June 21 urged the world to help Myanmar complete its journey towards democracy as she became the first foreign woman to address both houses of Britains parliament. The Nobel Peace Prize laureate said her Southeast Asian homeland had yearned for democracy for decades, and could not afford to waste its chance to build a truly democratic and just society after 49 years of military rule. I am here, in part, to ask for practical help: help as a friend and an equal, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi told around 2000 lawmakers and guests, who gave her a standing ovation that echoed around parliaments cavernous Westminster Hall. The opposition leader, who was wearing a purple longyi and a white shawl, said it was an extraordinary honour to make an address in the 11 th-century building, an invitation previously only offered to heads of state. Since World War II, US President Barack Obama, Pope Benedict XVI, South African president Nelson Mandela and French president Charles de Gaulle are the only other foreigners to have addressed both houses in Westminster Hall. We have an opportunity to re-establish true democracy in Burma, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said. If we do not use this opportunity if we do not get things right this time around it may be several decades more before a similar opportunity arises, she warned. The 67-year-old added: Our own determination can get us so far; the support of the people of Britain and the peoples around the world can get us so much further. She urged Britain, Myanmars former colonial power, to help her country develop its institutions, warning that the parliament she recently joined would take time to find its feet. She also encouraged democracy-friendly investment in her impoverished homeland, two days after President U Thein Sein pledged to follow dramatic political changes with economic reforms. Investment that prioritises transparency, accountability, workers rights and environmental stability would be welcome in resource-rich Myanmar, she said. More page 4

Pic: AFP Daw Aung San Suu Kyi mingles with guests following her address to both houses of parliament in Westminster Hall on June 21.

Farmland laws should be amended: committee

By Sandar Lwin A MEMBER of a parliamentary committee on reform has announced plans to amend two recently promulgated land laws following a spate of complaints over land confiscation and ownership disputes. The Pyithu Hluttaws Reform and Development Monitoring Committee will take the necessary measures to amend the land laws, the committees chairman, U Aung Thein Linn, said on June 21 following a fact-finding trip to the dry zone. U Aung Thein Linn, the former mayor of Yangon and a senior member of the Union Solidarity and Development Party, said at a press conference on the committees June 16-20 trip that the Farmland Law and Vacant, Fallow and Virgin Lands Management Law both passed by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw in March contained mistakes, weaknesses and were incomplete. We will revise the two land laws. We missed some matters that need to be discussed thoroughly when the parliament approved the two land laws. But every law is evolving necessary amendments can be made to any law, he said. More page 4

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The Mail Box

Dear editor, I refer to Asia Focus In Depth with Roger Mitton article on page seven of the Monday, June 18 edition of The Myanmar Times. First, I want to freely admit that I admire The Lady, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, very much. Not only because we went to the same high school the former Methodist English High School, Rangoon where she was six years my senior. When I listened to the long overdue Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech she delivered at the Town Hall in Oslo, I had tears in my eyes. I was so very proud to be a fellow Myanmar citizen. However, in a democratic society, to which I think all of us here in Myanmar aspire to live in, it is the right of all of the people to question our leaders, to be critical and also advise or suggest as we see fit. We are suffering needlessly today in Myanmar because from 1962 to almost the present day most were flatterers and yes men who dared not even lift their eyes to the highest authority of the land! Some of the same people ended up in various political parties today, including the National League for Democracy and National Unity Party. We need more able, effective and reliable advisers who have the guts to say no or offer other options, solutions and alternatives as and when required. I wish and pray that both President U Thein Sein and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi may have many, many more healthy and fruitful years working closely together. BBS U Win Tin, Kamaryut, Yangon Dear editor, It was deplorable to read the news in your journal on June 11 under the headline of Team appointed to probe killings, which mentioned the barbaric incidents in Rakhine State. I felt comfort though when the government announced that a 16-member committee had been formed to investigate the cause of the incidents, identify the offenders and leaders and take legal action. It is pleasing to see the governments prompt action to form an investigation committee and declare a state of emergency in Rakhine State in order to restore peace, stability and the rule of law in the region. Now is the time to light a candle rather than curse the darkness. We have to light tomorrow with our actions today. It is high time that the Myanmar people all the citizens of Myanmar are educated in conformity with democratic practices about religious tolerance and union spirit. In order to avoid such incidents in the future, it is also high time to enact a law in line with section 364 of the 2008 constitution, which states: The abuse of religion for political purposes is forbidden. Moreover, any act which is intended or is likely to promote feelings of hatred, enmity or discord between racial or religious communities or sects is contrary to this Constitution. A law may be promulgated to punish such activity. If a law regarding all citizens of Myanmar is to be enacted, it should be thoroughly discussed with an exchange of views and opinions not only in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw but also among the wider public. All ethnic groups, religious organisations, political parties, media and people from all walks of life should participate in the discussions. I am confident that it will be an important step towards national reconciliation on the basis of understanding, trust and equality. It is my earnest hope and fervent prayer that we can build a prosperous democratic nation together in unity. Khin Maung Cho, Advocate, Yangon
Got something to say? We want to hear from you. Address all correspondence to the Editor, The Myanmar Times (English). We endeavour to respond to all correspondence in a timely manner. Address: 379-383, Bo Aung Kyaw Street, Kyauktada township, Yangon. Telephone: (+951) 392-928, 253-642 Fax: (+951) 392-706 Email: your.myanmar.times@gmail.com

Thai construction workers on a highrise building in Bangkok. Pic: AFP

Inviting trouble in Thailand

SUDDENLY there is talk of more violent unrest in Bangkok. People who should know better are, if not openly encouraging, then at least seeking to justify, a military coup. They are not wild hotheads or closet fascists, but a clique of affluent, educated businessmen, journalists, even opposition parliamentarians. People like the Democrat Party leaders Abhisit Vejjajiva, Suthep Thaugsuban and Korn Chatikavannij, who recently encouraged MPs to violently break up parliament. They have boasted, quite openly and forcefully, that in order to get their way they will take the fight into the streets. Along with their proxy gang of rent-a-mob goons, the sickly misnamed Peoples Alliance for Democracy and its elitist backers, they will stop at nothing to bring down the current elected government. As Voranai Vanijaka, no fan of this government, lamented in the Bangkok Post, they show a willingness to discard the democratic process and use thug-like intimidation and violence. It is shameful and beneath contempt, and causes so much anger to well up that a digression is needed in order to stay calm. So let me detour to Washington, where one of my

AsiA Focus

InsIde Cover
with Roger Mitton
perks as bureau chief for the Singapore Straits Times was to indulge in the daily lunches my secretary Maria arranged for me in the capitals best restaurants. Armed with the long list of names I gave her, she would begin calling them and once

Some of the people I dined with were very clued in, especially those from the White House or the departments of State or Defence, although they did not always, of course, relay much of their information. Others thankfully did. And then there was a third bunch who, though they believed theyd got all the latest dope and would talk up a storm, rarely emitted any real fresh tidings. However, these folks usually made up for it with their gay

Along with the sickly misnamed Peoples Alliance for Democracy and its elitist
backers, Democrat Party leaders will stop at nothing to bring down the government.
theyd agreed on a date, she would book a table at the Old Ebbitt Grill, or the Tabard Inn, or the Monocle or the Palm. My job was onerous and stressful and I worked my socks off from seven in the morning till eight or nine in the evening. For more than three years, there was never a day I did not go into the office. So I viewed my lavish expense-account lunches as just compensation and they became an essential quotidian and a highly enjoyable one, too.

volubility and extravagantly mischievous gossip. Husain Haqqani fell into this category. Having first met him a decade earlier in Singapore, it was a joy to rekindle our friendship and exchange scuttlebutt, which we did at the best Asian eateries, like Kopi Tiam, Thai Kingdom and the Bombay Club. A former journalist from Pakistan, Husain was by then a professor of International Relations at Boston University and a visiting scholar

at Washingtons Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. He was close to the Bhutto clan, particularly the late PM Benazir, and so his opinion of her nemesis, the countrys then dictator, General Pervez Musharraf, veered between contempt and ridicule. They are the same feelings we should have towards those trying to usurp democracy in Thailand and place another crackpot general in power. Someone like Musharraf, who, later forced into exile over his role in Benazirs murder, was an unmitigated disaster, as indeed are all military dictators, whether Pakistani, Indonesian, Filipino or Thai. Husain went on to become Pakistans ambassador in Washington but last November he was sacked after being accused of instigating a plea for US intervention to prevent another military coup in Pakistan. He denies this, but at the same time says that whoever was responsible did no wrong. He is right. Any action to prevent a military takeover is right. And those implicitly suggesting that another coup would be a good idea in Thailand need to back off pronto and start to remember an old, but apt adage. Be careful what you wish for; it may be granted.

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US praises govt steps to fight trafficking

By Zaw Win Than MYANMAR has been upgraded to Tier Two status on the United States 2012 Trafficking in Persons Report, US Secretary of States Hillary Clinton announced last week. This upgrade recognises that the government of Burma is making significant efforts for the elimination of trafficking, Ms Clinton, who visited Myanmar in December 2011, said in a statement released on June 19. It is the first time Myanmar has been upgraded from Tier Three status the lowest of four designations since the report was introduced in 2000. The US State Department classifies countries as Tier Three if their governments do not fully comply with the minimum standards on human trafficking and are not making significant efforts to remedy the problem. Myanmar officials have in the past criticised the US for not recognising its efforts to combat human trafficking, In December 2009, the head of the Myanmar Police Forces Department Against Transnational Crime said the government w as dis a p p o i n t e d t h e US continuously places Myanmar in the third tier in its Annual Trafficking in Persons report. We are somewhat discouraged, as we feel that our efforts, the government and also the effort of UN agencies and international organisations, have not been well acknowledged, Police Colonel Sit Aye now a presidential adviser for legal affairs said at the time. In her statement last week, Ms Clinton said the government had made significant efforts to address several areas of concern, including crossborder sex trafficking of women and girls. It had also inaugurated a national hotline to respond to public complaints of trafficking, repealed antiquated laws that sanctioned the use of forced labour, enacted new legislation that clearly prohibits forced labour, and embarked on an ambitious new plan of action with the International Labor Organisation to eradicate forced labour by 2015, she said. Nevertheless, Ms Clinton said forced labour and the recruitment of child soldiers by both military officials and private entities remained serious problems. The full report can be read online at http://www.state. gov/j/tip, while a Myanmarlanguage translation of the report will be posted on the website of the US embassy in Yangon within the next month, the embassy said last week.

GDP growth goals spark debate

Achieving projected rates would require historically unprecedented levels of growth, say experts
By Ei Ei Toe Lwin EXPERTS have welcomed the presidents ambitious plan for economic growth but warned that gross domestic product growth targets may be overambitious. In a speech to senior government officials and departmental heads on June 19, President U Thein Sein said the government projected a 7.7 percent average GDP growth to 2015-16, and a 170pc rise in per capita GDP over the same period based on 2010-11 figures. However, he added that its aspired goal was to triple per capita GDP by 2016. The targets would be met by limiting or eliminating national budget deficits, receiving more aid, grants and loans from abroad, and a robust increase in investment from foreign and local firms. Although we have projected a 1.7-fold per capita GDP increase in the fiscal 2015-16 based on GDP growth rate calculations, our aspired goal is a triple increase in per capita GDP. Especially we will strive to fulfill the basic needs of our people to witness a real income growth, President U Thein Sein said. We will see increase in job opportunities and income and a triple growth as projected only if we double our current volume of financial investments, I was very pleased when I heard the word GDP from the president, said Dr Aung Tun Thet, a senior advisor to the UN Resident Coordinator and member of the National Economic and Social Advisory Council, which was established last month. It is very important that the government has a vision and target for GDP [growth] to implement through a country development program, he said. Some people doubt whether [the figures] are possible or not. I believe that it can happen if we do [publicprivate partnerships]. When Singapores former prime minister, Goh Chok Tong, visited, he said he believed Myanmar could see GDP growth of 17pc. So, I think it is not difficult to meet this target but we need to discuss the methods we can use to drive growth. U Myat Thin Aung, a leading member of the business community, said the wide-ranging speech was very good. But in the case of GDP [growth targets], he said the government aimed to triple per capita GDP in five years. It is possible in theory, but I think it will be extremely difficult to meet this target, he said. But it can be possible with increased foreign investment and job opportunities, stable commodity prices and political situation, and good weather conditions. We also need to promote education and health and really implement clean government to eradicate bribery. One source close to the president said the intention of the speech was partly to push ministries that have been struggling to adjust to his reform plans. Were in a transition period and although the president urged them to carry out reform with a bottom-up system, some ministries have not caught up because they are sticking to the old topdown structure. Therefore, the president said to triple [per capita] GDP as a way to push these ministries, he said. The figures contrast with estimates made by the International Monetary Fund in May following its Article IV Consultation. The IMF said real GDP growth is estimated to have been 5.3pc in 2010-11 but was projected to increase to 5.5pc in 2011-12 and 6pc in 2012-13. Mr Sean Turnell, an expert on the Myanmar economy from Australias Macquarie University, said the figures were ambitious to the point of being unachievable. Meeting either the projected or aspirational targets would require growth rates unprecedented historically, even in China. More page 4

President U Thein Sein delivers a speech at the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw on March 1. Pic: AFP President U Thein Sein said. The government will soon submit a National Plan bill to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, he added. He said the budget for 2011-12 included a deficit of K2.159 billion and this was forecast to decline to about K1.954 billion in 2012-13. The government planned to trim down uneconomical and redundant enterprises and cut expenses, while shrinking the stateowned business sector and encouraging privatisation in a range of sectors, including communication, electricity, energy, forestry, education, health and finance, he said. This would be done through a reformed Privatisation Commission and doesnt mean a big sell-off of government-run businesses, the president said. Additionally, each ministry had been instructed to adopt and implement a reform strategy to determine exactly which functions of its sectors and businesses need reforms. The president also said the new Foreign Investment Law would soon be approved by the parliament, while a Minimum Wage Law would be submitted. The next Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session is scheduled to begin July 4. Most observers said they welcomed the boldness and intent of the presidents plan.

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Archaeological sites to be upgraded

By Cherry Thein THREE historical sites will be upgraded to archaeological parks in collaboration with local companies, the Department of Archaeology, National Museum and Library under the Ministry of Culture said last week. The department announced that Inwa, a former royal capital in Tada Oo township in Mandalay Region, Pakangyi at Yesagyo in Magwe Region and Padalin Cave in Shan States Taunggyi township, would all be upgraded under the plan, which will see private companies invited to jointly undertake the preservation projects. Department director general U Kyaw Oo Lwin said the project aimed to better preserve the historical sites and their contents in cooperation with From page 1 local residents. The project will include awareness training or talks for local residents, construction of facilities including bathrooms, toilets, restaurants, landscaping and information centres, and provision of training to tour guides and other people. We are raising awareness on the value of archaeological, cultural and historical [sites] to local residents so that they feel proud to maintain them. Our department cant do this alone; we need more cooperation with the public, he said. The department is also working to strengthen its ability to safeguard three Pyu-era sites in accordance with standards set by the World Heritage Convention, he said, in order to improve their chances of inclusion on the World Heritage List. It also plans to push for listing of Bagan and Mrauk-U in the future. The department lists 37 cultural sites as being of historical and archaeological value throughout the country. Last month, it announced that another five sites Myaung Mya ancient city in Ayeyarwady Region; Myo Haung village in Launglon, Tanintharyi Region; and Wethali and Tharlarwati in Mrauk-U township and Danyawati in Kyauktaw township, Rakhine State be listed as cultural sites. Meanwhile, Minister for Information and Culture U Kyaw Hsan said at a donation ceremony for the renovation of ancient pagodas on June 17 that the department was conscious of the need to preserve some pagodas in their original style, rather than conducting renovations to modernise their appearance. I do appreciate donors contributions for the renovation of ancient pagodas. Most donors prefer in detail renovation to maintaining the original style because they want to renovate them like new, he said. But we cant do in detail renovation to some ancient pagodas because the authenticity of the ancient designs is irreplaceable and we need to be very careful, U Kyaw Hsan said. We should give more awareness and knowledge to cherish the cultural as well as the historical heritage and encourage the public to participate in safeguarding them because we are all maintaining [the sites] for future generations, the minister said. From page 3 have argued that the bills were inadequate and could facilitate land grabs, leading to increased landlessness and poverty. While the bills were still before the parliament, international experts also weighed into the debate. Speaking at a seminar at the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry in February, Nobel Prize-winning economist Professor Joseph Stiglitz said that while it was absolutely essential to have a farmland law, if it is not the right law, it could really be very, very troublesome. The rule of the game can have a very big effect on creating inequality and poverty or creating a more equal society. And this is an example of a rule of the game; if you dont get it right, you can wind up with more people in poverty, more inequality and a few people at the top becoming much wealthier, Professor Stiglitz warned. Amendments proposed by the committee should have little trouble getting through the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, said Colonel Tin Maung Oo (retired), the Pyithu Hluttaw representative for Shwe Pyi Thar in Yangon Region, where several land grab cases have occurred in recent months. There is no difficulty to make amendment to the land laws because the USDP has a majority in the parliaments, said Col Tin Maung Oo, a USDP representative. He said the party was aware of the importance of getting land laws right. I discussed [the bills] 26 times during the discussion session in the parliament. We will keep amending the laws as necessary based on whatever new developments take place. U Kyaw Swar Soe, a member of the central executive committee of the Union of Myanmar Federation of National Politics and the organiser of the June 16-20 mission to the dry zone, said he was satisfied with the trip because it would likely bring about resolutions to some of the issues raised by the farmers. to suffer at the hands of the violence that has gripped parts of the country since independence in 1948, and urged aid for the tens of thousands displaced in recent months. In the immediate term we also need humanitarian support for the many people in the north and west largely women and children who have been forced to flee their homes, she said. The speech was the climax of Daw Aung San Suu Kyis visit to Britain, where she studied and lived for several years until she returned to Myanmar in 1988, leaving her children and her English husband behind. She earlier held talks with British Prime Minister David Cameron at his 10 Downing Street office, and with heir to the throne Prince Charles and his wife Camilla at their Clarence House residence, where she planted a tree in the garden. Mr Cameron defended his decision to invite U Thein Sein to Britain for talks, given that he was, until last year, a member of the military government that ruled Myanmar for more than two decades. There is a process of reform in Burma. In order for that to succeed we have to work with the regime, he told a press conference with Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi backed the decision to invite the president, saying: We dont want to be shackled by the past. We want to use the past to build up the future. On June 19, she made an emotional return to Oxford, the southern English city where she studied, met her late husband Michael Aris and brought up their two sons. She said she was deeply moved on June 20 as she received an honorary doctorate in civil law. The award was conferred in 1993 but she was unable to collect it at the time, fearing that if she left Myanmar the military would not have allowed her to return. Suu Kyi heads to France on June 26 for the last leg of her European tour, following warm welcomes in Switzerland, Ireland and Norway where she finally delivered her Nobel Peace Prize speech, 21 years after winning the award. AFP

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Land laws
So further prescriptions can be added to the land laws that have been approved by the parliaments. Amendments can be made or sections cancelled. We will do them. He said the tour, the purpose of which was to monitor agricultural development and the living standards of farmers, had reinforced the need to amend the laws. Im not an expert on land rights issues but as far as I could see during this tour, we need to add some sections for landless people in the [virgin land law], he said. The original landowners in some areas had lost control of their land and been forced to become tenants, said U Aung Thein Linn, the Pyithu Hluttaw representative for South Okkalapa in Yangon. Our farmers are severely suffering because of this, he said. I also saw plenty of land in that region that had been grabbed for particular projects but nothing had been implemented. I know there are similar things happening in Yangon Region too. We have received piles of complaints from thousands of farmers from 61 villages in Salin and Pwinbyu townships in Magwe Region. From them I realised that there are four serious issues among farmers, namely land use rights, arable water accessibility, problems concerning issues such as the tenancy system and the [governments] preference for large-scale investors when it comes to assigning ownership of virgin land. We will use two channels the parliament and regional government to help resolve these issues, he said. The Farmland Law bill was submitted to the parliament by former Minister for Agriculture and Irrigation U Htay Oo on behalf of the USDP, while the Vacant, Fallow and Virgin Lands Management Law bill was submitted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation. While U Aung Thein Linn would not comment on what specific amendments to the laws the committee would recommend, it seems they could address some of the concerns of activists and land rights experts, who

GDP growth goals

With reform and good policies high growth can and should be achieved in Myanmar, but not at these rates, he told The Myanmar Times by email last week. Nevertheless, there was much to applaud in the speech, he said, especially the way that privatisation seems to have been reconfigured to mean injecting new players, new competition, instead of just handing over state assets to the usual suspects. It recommits the government to economic reform. Given that economic reforms have hitherto been lagging, this is a good thing in itself, he said. Policy reform and structural change would play an important role in achieving high growth, he added. The role of the state in Burma is not just overwhelming via its spending. More problematic are the vast array of rules and restrictions that greatly inhibit the emergence of a prosperous market economy. In other words, a much greater liberalisation of economic life in Burma seems to me to be the one inescapable precondition for growth. Despite the president projecting the agriculture sector to decline as a percentage of GDP from 36.43pc to 29.2pc by 201516 industry will grow to 32.1pc from 26pc, while services will increase marginally to 38.7pc from 37.6pc Mr Turnell said he believed agriculture holds the key to Burmas future growth. The country has immense potential here, not only in terms of an extraordinary natural endowment that at present is operating far below potential, but agriculture has massive and growing markets (India and China) that are not going away, regardless of the state of the global and regional economies broadly. Additional reporting by Thomas Kean

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Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in Britain

But she warned that Myanmars development was continuing

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Briefs
President U Thein Sein invited to UK
LONDON British Prime Minister David Cameron has invited President U Thein Sein to visit Britain to discuss the need for further reform after decades of military rule, Downing Street said last week. News of the invitation emerged on June 21, just hours before Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was due to meet Cameron as part of her own trip to Britain, her first in 24 years. He is due to visit the UK in the coming months to continue the discussions that began when the prime minister was in Burma in April, Mr Camerons spokeswoman told reporters. Those discussions will centre on the need for further reform. Another spokeswoman said that U Thein Sein has welcomed the invitation but it was not for us to confirm if or when he would be coming. Asked whether Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had been asked if U Thein Sein should be invited to Britain the spokeswoman said: She was made aware of the invitation. AFP

Govt steps up dialogue with KIO

Y A N G O N Representatives from the government and Kachin Independence Organisation have held three rounds of talks over the past month in an attempt to resolve the civil war raging in the far north, the two sides said last week. A team led by Railways Minister U Aung Min met representatives of the KIO and its armed wing the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) again on June 20, said KIO deputy foreign affairs chief Colonel James Lum Dau, whose rank was bestowed on him by the KIA. The talks held in rebelcontrolled Maijayang aimed to strengthen the relationship between the negotiating teams, he said by telephone. The rebels aim is to secure greater autonomy for their state. A government official confirmed the meeting, which was the third since President U Thein Sein re-shuffled his team of negotiators in May, promoting U Aung Min at the expense of hardliners viewed suspiciously by the Kachin. The move is showing tentative signs of bearing fruit, after three previous rounds of talks since November failed to show any signs of progress. Aung Min understands that before we can agree on anything, the relationship should be strengthened, Col Lum Dau said. Contacts between the sides come amid ongoing reports of fierce fighting between Kachin guerillas and Myanmars army, in a conflict which has displaced tens of thousands of people since a 17-yearceasefire collapsed in June last year. AFP

The Secretariat, which was put up for tender for use as a museum in January. Manawhar Artist Group won the tender, according to Myanmar Investment Commission. Pic: Hein Latt Aung

MIC invites hotel tenders

By Zaw Win Than MYANMAR Investment Commission has announced another four stateowned buildings in Yangon will be put up for tender in an effort to ease the citys hotel room shortage. Both local and foreign companies have been invited to bid on the properties and convert them into hotels on long-term leases, a commission spokesperson said. The tender closes on July 7. The three-storey Ministry of Hotels and Tourism office at the corner of Sule Pagoda Road and Mahabandoola Street, the three-storey Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise building on Merchant Street, the four-storey Trade Corporation building on Bo Sun Pat Street and a four-storey building at the corner of Merchant Street and Mahabandoola Street that was formerly the office of Export and Import Department are available in the latest tender. These properties will be leased for 30 years under the current investment law with the possibility of two 15-year extensions. The terms and conditions do not allow the original structure and architectural features of the buildings to be changed, the spokesperson said. The commission is also offering an empty 17.17-acre block in Hmantan announce the list of properties at a later date, he said. In early January, the commission invited bids for the Yangon Region Government Office on Strand Road, the five-storey Myanma Railways building on Merchant Street and the former Foreign Ministers Office on Pyay Road for commercial use. The commission also invited bids from companies interested in restoring two historically significant buildings the Secretariat and High Court for use as museums. According to MIC, Manawhar Artist Group won the tender for the Secretariat, while U Thein Tun from Htoo Foundation acquired the High Court. The Yangon Region Government Office and Myanmar Railways buildings were acquired by two mystery local engineering firms, while the former Foreign Ministers Office on Pyay Road was acquired by Youth Force Company and will be used as serviced apartments.

Yangon man arrested over fake ID card

A MINGALAR Taung Nyunt resident was arrested earlier this month for allegedly using a fake National Registration Card to apply for a passport, according to police. Yangon Region Police Force said in a press release that U Kyaw Khin, 30, also known as Aduhashin, was arrested at Bahan Immigration and National Registration Department on June 12. He was charged under section 18 of the Myanmar Citizenship Act 1982 and if found guilty will face a jail term of 10 years, a fine of K50,000 or both. Htoo Aung

We have received a lot of enquiries from both local and international companies.

quarter, Amarapura township, Mandalay Region, to develop as a hotel, the spokesperson added. We have received a lot of enquiries from both local and international companies. We also plan to put some more properties up for tender and will

Correction
THE article Farmers complain over gas pipeline published in the June 18-24 edition (Volume 32, No 631) of The Myanmar Times incorrectly stated that the natural gas pipeline linking Rakhine State to Yunnan Province in China is a joint venture between China National Petroleum Corporation and Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise. The pipeline owner, South-East Asia Gas Pipeline Co Ltd, has six investors from four countries: MOGE; South-East Asia Pipeline Co Ltd; Daewoo and KOGAS from South Korea; and GAIL and ONGC Caspian E&P BV from India. We regret the error.

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Sittwe calm but fear remains for residents

By Soe Than Lynn RELATIVE calm has returned to Sittwe but the telltale signs of the recent sectarian violence remain, in the form of charred homes and thousands of displaced people. Residents remain frightened that the violence will return, despite assurances from government officials that the situation is under control. Local authorities used the power of the military [to end the violence] after the state of emergency was declared. The cooperation of local security regiments, the police force and Tatmadaw resulted in Sittwe becoming quiet again yesterday evening, Rakhine State Chief Justice U Hla Thein told reporters on June 14 at the government headquarters. Some banks and reopened shortly afterwards, which he said was a sign that the situation was beginning to return to normal. Unless there is stability, the banks wont reopen so this is a good signal that Sittwe has become peaceful again. The local government has been working to get further progress so that schools, businesses and agricultural production can return to as they were before, he said. Residents said a handful of teashops reopened on June 14 but the streets remained mostly silent. More businesses reopened their doors on June 15, but schools and government offices remained shut as of June 21. U Hla Thein said the violence had been fuelled by rumours and incitements, sparking violence between two communities that had lived side by side peacefully for many years. You can see nobody won, nobody benefited from the conflict. But those who want the violence to take place will be satisfied. However, all we got was an enormous number of displaced people. We dont want to see the kind of violence weve had in Rakhine State happen anywhere, the chief justice said. Those who followed these incitements are the kind of people who lack common sense so we will need to join together in a more sensible manner to prevent this happening again. U Hla Thein requested all people, including media personnel, to cooperate to prevent riots happening again. He said it reflected badly on the country when it transitioning to democracy and opening up to the outside world. The government had taken steps to reconcile the two communities after the May 28 rape and murder of a young Rakhine woman and the June 3 mob killing of 10 Muslims but an outbreak of violence in Maungdaw on June 8 had derailed the peace efforts, he said. To reconstruct the peace and stability of the region, the state government formed a cooperation committee with a wide range from people, including members of the state government, residents of Sittwe, Muslim communities, religious leaders, representatives from NGOs and political parties to parliamentary representatives and then made negotiations from June 5. The Deputy Minister for Home Affairs also participated in the negotiations, he said. The two sides showed a desire for peace during the talks. So we were somewhat successful, particularly when members of the cooperation committee went around the wards of Sittwe where both Rakhine and Muslim live. We also sent the committee members to other townships like this and until June 7 the situation in most areas was good. After the riots started there were cases of arson and fighting between mobs of Rakhine and Bengali Muslims from June 8 to 13. There were deaths, injures and other damage as well. Colonel Htein Lin, Security and Border Affairs Minister for Rakhine State, said that as of June 14, 1192 Rakhine househoulds and 1336 Muslim households had been destroyed, along with seven mosques, nine Buddhist monasteries and one school. Translated by Zar Zar Soe

Rahkine refugee camps short on supplies, security

By Soe Than Lynn A GROUP of people huddle quietly on the cold earthen floor of the flooded compound of the monastery. A baby sleeps nearby on a bamboo mat, not far from where its mother is sitting, a blunt dah lying within her reach. A man sitting at the end of the corridor to the pagodas ordination hall shoulders a homemade spear and stares off into the distance as the rain falls steadily. This is the grim reality of life in Sittwes 17 refugee camps, which as of June 14 housed 5960 Rakhine and 18,886 Rohingya also known as Bengali Muslims displaced by recent violence. Official figures on June 14 put the number of displaced at almost 32,000 in 37 camps in Rakhine Stat, but more recent estimates put the number at almost 50,000. Officials and camp managers say more supplies of food and clothing are needed to support those displaced by the fighting. Most refugees are women and children. They arrived here because they were homeless. They are still fearful, especially at night. They want the local authorities to provide security but they have declined so the men here have to look after security instead, U Hla Maung, a member of the board of trustees for Mahazeya Theikdi Ahdeikhtan Theindawgyi in Sittwes Mingan Ward, told The Myanmar Times on June 13. The ordination hall at the pagoda, which features an assortment of Buddha images and nat shrines, has been converted into a storeroom for goods provided for the 1200 or so people from Nar Zi, Danyawaddy and Ywatharyar wards who have sought refuge there. Local social organisations and private companies wereproviding food, but it was barely enough to cope with demand. [The displaced people] will still need some more rice, medicine and clothing as well as long-term support, U Hla Maung said. One man in the Mahazeya Theikdi Ahdeikhtan Theindawgyi camp, who leant on a stick because of an injury to his leg, said clothing, medicine and rice were most needed. Our factory housing in ward No 1 had more than 200 houses. The Bengalis burnt down everything, including five monasteries. My injury Pic: Boothee

Refugees wait at a refugee camp in Rakhine State last week. was sustained because I was hit by a piece of broken glass catapulted by the Bengalis. I was transferred here after I was struck, he said. The total number of affected is likely to be significantly higher, as many Rakhine have taken refuge with friends rather than camps. Rakhine friends are helping as much as they can. But as we have 10 people in our family the two tins of rice (one tin of rice is enough for two people for one meal) we are getting is not enough. Rice and other relief goods should be sent promptly to all the needy people, said U Nitarshay, a Hindu resident of Marammargyi ward in Sittwe whose house was destroyed in the violence. In Sinku Lan Monastery in Sinku Ward, Sittwe, a social organisation established by Shwezedi Monaster, Shwegaruna Group, has been working to provide medical care to refugees. The refugees started arriving June 8. There are more than 580 people [as of June 15]. They are from Byainephyu village and Satyoekya village of the other bank [of Kaladan River] and Konetan Ward of Sittwe all these areas were attacked by arsonists. For food, the wards nearby offered rice at first but this was only a short term solution. Now organisations and other benefactors are contributing. For healthcare, Shwegaruna Group contributed their services, said the Venerable Bhandanda Kheymeindarsara, the abbot of the monastery. For security at night, people from the ward are taking responsibility. This has troubled both Rakhine and Bengalis. I think quick action by the government is needed to help solve the problems of the refugees. Everything that is happening now is related to the misdeeds in Taunggok. But he said he couldnt see how Rohingya and Rakhine could continue to live side-by-side as they had done in the past. If Bengalis are put in their former place, their may be bad consequences. For instance, in Konetan ward, the houses of the Rakhine nationals are close to the Bengalis. When they are resettled, they should be separated. I dont think there is any place in Sittwe for Bengalis. While there appears little immediate chance of violence resuming, a security presence is required at the camps to give refugees peace of mind, many sources agreed. Most of refugees arrived here after braving many great hardships. They need food, clothing, shelter and healthcare. The state government should also deploy security to make people feel secure at night. We asked them to do it but they said they couldnt. Rather than provide security for each camp and road, they guard an area as a whole, said a monk in charge of one camp. U Win Myaing, the head of the committee, said as well as money and rice it had also received fuel to mill more rice for the camps. He said more goods were expected to arrive to Sittwe over the last week. Translated by Thit Lwin

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Musicians perform to support Rakhine

By Aung Kyi THE Pannyelann Social Network last week began a series of impromptu musical performances to raise funds for the victims of recent riots in Rakhine State, members said. The group, which is led by Mizzima Hlaings Ko Ye Lwin, conducted four public fundraising performances on June 17 at different locations in Yangon. We have been seeking donations with the help of these musicians by going around and entertaining the public in Yangon starting from June 17, said U Aung Than, a member of Pannyelann Social Network. The group visited Morning Star teashop near Yangon Zoological Garden, Mercury teashop in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township, Hantharwaddy car trading zone and Shwe Nga Maung Maung seafood shop in Latha township on June 17, collecting K2.6 million in donations from customers and passersby. On the coming weekends, we are going to go around Yangon to other places and entertain and collect donations from the public, U Aung Than said, adding that some members would go to Rakhine State on June 19. Daw Cho, a street vendor selling crabs on 17th Street in Latha township, was among those who donated to the group. I am very glad to see the musicians going out to meet the public near the market to collect donations for the victims in Rakhine state. I contributed K30,000, she said. As well as Ko Ye Lwin, the groups other musically inclined members include Tha Htwe, Ko Ye Htut, E Cho, Nyi Nyi Lwin and Toe Lwin.

We need help to rebuild, say residents of Sittwe

By Soe Than Lynn THE nightmare of sectarian violence might have receded for residents of Sittwe but the economic impact of the conflict is likely to linger for months, sources said last week. Rioting by mobs of Rakhine and Rohingya, also known as Bengali, earlier this month led to all major businesses in the town closing for at least a week. While some have started to reopen since June 14, thousands of people continue to live in refugee camps, with no homes or jobs to return to. There is now some activity in Sittwe again, said U Myint Zaw, a Rakhine leader in the town and secretary of the Rakhine State National Force Party, which contested the 2010 elections. Though businesses are not doing well, more than half of the shops have reopened, especially on main roads and in the wards that are mostly home to Rakhine people. However, schools and government offices remain closed. With the Tatmadaw and police ensuring security in the town, Myanmar Red Cross Society members and fire brigade personnel have cleared debris from June 16 to 20. Rakhine people have been able to move freely in wards such as Nar Zi Zay, Set Yone Su, Ingying Myaing, Myothegyi, Tayarthesu and Shwepya. However, U Myint Zaw said the number of refugees had risen to almost 100,000, up from some 32,000 last week, and he was concerned at how long it would take to restart the towns main industries. The main businesses of Sittwe like fisheries, construction and cargo handling, as well as paddy growing, which is about

Relief agencies scale up response

GENEVA Relief agencies announced last week a scaling up of aid to Rakhine State, where an estimated 90,000 people have been displaced by sectarian violence. Rioting and arson attacks in Rakhine State earlier this month left dozens dead and sparked growing international concern. The World Food Program said on June 19 it had distributed supplies to the townships of Sittwe, Maungdaw, Buthidang and Rathedaung and would boost its operations further in the coming days. WFP has reached more than 66,000 displaced people with emergency food supplies in the past week, delivering rations of rice, beans and cooking oil, said spokeswoman Ms Elisabeth Byrs. At this stage, WFP estimates there are about 90,000 displaced people in need of assistance as a result of the recent clashes. Initial Myanmar government estimates had put the figure at 48,000. The UN refugee agency said the situation on the ground remained tense. Aid workers were evacuated from its office temporarily following the flare-up between the regions Rakhine and Rohingya communities. Mr Adrian Edwards, spokesman for the office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), said an assessment team made up of UNHCR and other agencies visited the state capital Sittwe on June 19. AFP

A Sittwe resident stand besides her destroyed home on June 16. Pic: Boothee to start soon, have been forced to halt so most people have no daily income at all. Benefactors from other places need to support the relief camps. To restart businesses, we need advice and support from experts immediately. Just as Rakhine businesses have restarted, the main Muslim markets, such as Thekaipyin Bazaar, Dahbai Bazaar and Thechaung Bazaar, are slowly returning to normal. Measures have also been taken to control commodity prices, a senior Rakhine leader said, asking not to be named. Commodity prices went up during the unrest but now returned to normal, he said. During the height of the unrest, rice prices increased. The price of an egg doubled from K100 to K200. To encourage prices to return to normal, we distributed leaflets to all corners of Sittwe and other towns requesting that freight charges, fares and handling charges not be increased, he said. As a result, the rice price even went down to K21,000 a bag, lower than the preunrest price of K23,000, he said. With conditions in Sittwe starting to stabilise, many refugees are eager to return home. Some leave the camps in the afternoon and come back at night to sleep. After having lunch, they went to their village now there is stability, they want to return to their village to assess the situation. But they dared not sleep there so they come back to the camp, said the in-charge at the Ahdeikhtan Theindawgyi camp. Most people at the camp come from the Rakhine village of Byainephyu, he said. They have no jobs in their village at the moment. Also in Sittwe, all businesses stopped during the unrest so many people are surviving on what is given to them at the camps. They all really want to stand on their own two feet again by returning to work. Translated by Thit Lwin

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Famoso workers wait on arbitration panel decision

By Naw Say Phaw Waa EMPLOYEES at a Mingalardon Industrial Zone garment factory returned to work last week pending a decision by a Ministry of Labour arbitration body on their requests for a pay rise. Workers from the Japaneseowned Famoso factory went on strike on June 8, demanding an increase in basic pay from K14,500 a month to K30,000. About 400 workers were allowed to return to work on June 20, despite earlier warnings from management that any employees who continued the strike after June 16 would be fired, a labour rights activist helping the workers said. Ma Ei Shwe Zin from the Committee for Emergence of Free Trade Unions, which has been assisting the Famoso workers, said she believed the owner of the factory had relented on his threat to fire the workers because of media coverage of the strike. The owner had initially said the workers would be forced to sign a statement saying they were satisfied with the existing pay arrangements but later relented, Ma Ei Shwe Zin said. About 100 workers had returned to work on June 18 because of fears they would lose their jobs, said Ko they are happy with the result, will they return to work. But under the present law, you can only go to arbitration after returning to work. Mr Yamazaki said the company had asked the workers to sign a promise to work in line with the company regulations but insisted it had nothing to do with the arbitration or their wages. He also criticised the government for not supporting factory owners enough during the recent spate of strikes in Yangons industrial zones. I know there are some bad cases, where [workers] are forced to work long hours and arent paid properly, but not in our factory. We need the government people to protect us, to exercise the law properly. The situation is very unfair. We always follow the law and they [workers] ignore it. As of February 13, the minimum wage at Famoso was increased to K14,500 from K10,000. With performance and attendance bonuses, workers with at least one year of experience earn K57,00062,000 a month, while those with 10 years of experience get K78,000. The industrial action at Famoso was the third recent strike to take place in the Mingalardon Industrial Zone, which has five factories. Additional reporting by Thomas Kean

Govt restarts NRC project

By Yu Yu Maw THE Ministry of Immigration and Population earlier this month launched the third stage of a national project to issue new and replacement National Registration Cards to Myanmar citizens. Under the project, which began on June 1 and ends July 31, the identity cards are issued free of charge within one day to full citizens. Children at least 10 years old can apply for an NRC. We are sending our teams around to each quarter and also to state schools, said U Myint Soe, an immigration officer for Botahtaung township in Yangon Region. Among those who received a new NRC in Botahtaung township last week was Daw Thandar, 40, who praised the expedited issuing process. On June 20 she swapped her underage NRC for an adult card. I am struggling to look after my family every day so I cant give a lot of time to visit many offices to get this card. I came here because under the project I can get a card in one day. I dont need to pay any money or give much time. This project is really good for someone in my situation, she said. The first phase of the project ran from July 1, 2011 to the end of October, while the second phase began on February 1 and ended March 30. U Myint Soe said about 39,000 people lived in the township and his office had issued 519 cards in phase one, 267 in phase two and another 111 so far in phase three. Officer for Botahtaungs No 10 quarter, U Lay Myint, said administrative officials were cooperating with the Immigration Department so that members of the public were aware of the program. Applicants must present their household member list, the recommendation of the quarter officer, two passport-size photos and results of a blood test. However, those with one parent who is a non citizen will have to wait longer to get an NRC, officials said, as the ministry needs to check personal documents more closely. U Zaw Win Than, an immigration officer in Pazundaung township, said the program was beneficial for the public. But I found that some people dont want to give their time to apply for an NRC even during the project period so we have asked the quarter officials to motivate the public to come and apply for an NRC in this project period, he said. In Pazundaung, the office has already issued 470 people in first phase and 900 in the second phase, he said. U Mg Htwe from Thingangyun township said he had missed the earlier phases of the project so had to go through the normal channels to get an adult NRC for his daughter when she recently turned 18. It took one week to get the card and I had to give K1000 for the application form. We did not wait so long but it is unheard of to get a card in one day, he said.

Workers from the Famoso garment factory in Mingalardon township, Yangon. Pic: Yadanar Ye Lin Soe, who took part in the industrial action. The striking workers submitted their case to a Ministry of Labour arbitration body on June 18 on the recommendation of the ministrys representative for Mingalardon township, U Kyaw Yin, who visited the workers on June 16. But Mr Kazuto Yamazaki, deputy managing director of Famoso Clothing Co Ltd, said by phone on June 23 that the workers had resumed their strike. They are still outside the compound, Mr Yamazaki said. They said only after getting the result of the arbitration, and only if

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Court rules against Voice on constitution

By Sandar Lwin A YANGON court last week dismissed an application by lawyers acting for The Voice to have a defamation suit forwarded to the Constitutional Tribunal. The case stems from a March 12 report in the weekly journal that quoted unnamed members of parliament as saying that misappropriation of funds and graft had been uncovered by the Office of the Auditor General at six government ministries, including the Ministry of Mines, which shortly afterwards announced it would apply to file defamation charges against the publication. Lawyers for The Voice argued on June 20 that the defamation charges contravened provisions of the constitution enshrining freedom of expression and so under section 323 of the constitution the suit should not be heard at the township court but instead sent to the Constitutional Tribunal. Under section 323, if a dispute arises over whether provisions contained in any law contradict or conform to the Constitution a court can stay the trial and submit its opinion to the Constitutional Tribunal of the Union in accord with the prescribed procedures and shall obtain a resolution. However, Dagon Township Court Judge Daw Khin Thant Zin dismissed the petition on the grounds that the freedom of expression enshrined by section 354(a) of the constitution meant every citizen had the liberty to express and publish their convictions and opinions if not contrary to the laws, enacted for union security, prevalence of law and order, community peace and tranquility or public order and morality. Defamation as defined by sections 499 and 500 of the Penal Code represented a check and balance on the person expressing a view, she said. The judge added that according to section 326 of the constitution a township court does not have the authority to directly submit cases to the Constitutional Tribunal. Under sections 325 and 326, only the heads of union and regional governments, speakers of national and regional level parliaments, the chief justice, the chairperson of the Union Election Commission, head of Self-Administered Division or Zone leading bodies or hluttaw representatives provided they can get at least 10 percent of the Pyithu Hluttaw or Amyotha Hluttaw to support them can submit a case to the tribunal. The trial will proceed in ac c o r d an c e w ith th e Un io n Judiciary Law, Daw Khin Thant Zin said. Lawyer U Thein Nyunt for The Voice said he would file an application to a higher court to correct last weeks ruling but declined to comment on the judges decision. Ill go as far as the law allows us, he said. According to section 17 of the Constitutional Tribunal By-law, any court can forward a case to the Constitutional Tribunal through the chief justice. The eighth sitting day of the suit will take place on June 28, when proceedings against two defendants The Voices publisher and editor will get underway. Charges against a third defendant the reporter who wrote the article were dropped on June 6 because the ministry could not identify the person in question. Daw Khin Thant Zin dismissed an application by the ministry to force the publication to reveal the identity of the reporter.

In Myanmar, moving beyond the miracle

By Thomas Kean WHEN political exile U Aung Naing Oo released Dialogue, a book about political negotiations and conflict resolution, in 2002, he dedicated it to the people of Burma, who dont have the culture of dialogue. He invokes the Myanmar saying, Nga hlay nga toe, Bago yaut yaut, nga myin nga saing Sagaing yaut yaut, to make his point. Roughly translated it means, Ill row my boat, and if I end up in Bago thats fine, and Ill ride my horse, and its okay if I end up in Sagaing. It signifies a mentality that doesnt take into account other people, other issues. But were in a democracy, were not in a revolution, so whatever you do, especially if youre a leader, either in government or opposition, you need to take into account the democratic institutions, the bigger picture, he told The Myanmar Times in a recent interview. We should look at the bigger picture; we should use dialogue to resolve our differences. We must promise ourselves that whatever we do, we wont go back to the old ways, the square one. One of the more notable features of Myanmars transition to democracy is the first traces or instances of a dialogue being used. At a recent town hall-style meeting convened in response to the series of labour strikes of the past few weeks. The meaning of dialogue is, we have a problem, we find a solution and we carry out that solution together. Its basically working together as equals and in a true sense of dialogue, not just one of us wins. Its either both of us win or both of us lose. You talk through things frankly and with respect. Oo, U Tin Maung Than and U Aung Thu Nyein, were among the first to test the invitation. In early February, U Aung Naing Oo returned to Myanmar for the first time in almost 24 years. Adjusting to life here has been far from easy, particularly after the initial euphoria wore off. I have lived comfortably in exile not everyone has, but personally I have. I got an education, like many of my colleagues, friends who left not everything was perfect but it was very good. And suddenly [after returning] it dawned on me that transitions are not easy [they are] difficult for everyone the country, the person, the organisation. We left, okay of our own volition, but it was a political reason that forced us to leave. I never wanted to leave in the first place so all my life Myanmar has been my destination, this is where my future lies. Ive made it very clear from the outset that if things turned around Id come back. For the past three or four months he has travelled across Myanmar lecturing on state-building challenges, drawing particularly on Myanmars modern history, from the First AngloBurmese War in 1824-26 to 2010. He sees very similar problems, similar issues between the early 19 th century and recent years, particularly in terms of the countrys isolation and the technological gap between Myanmar and its rivals.

theres Ifdialogue atoconflict, we need to use resolve that conflict

in Yangon industrial zone, for example, government officials, employers, workers, labour activists and lawyers were all able to discuss their grievances and views. It is an example that U Aung Naing Oo said needs to be replicated to resolve other conflicts and challenges that Myanmar faces. Speaking before the outbreak of sectarian violence in Rakhine State, his words take on an extra poignancy given the events

because in a democracy you negotiate.

Trade Mark CauTion

kT & G Corporation, a company incorporated in Republic of Korea and having its registered office at 100, Pyongchon-dong, Daedeok-gu, Daejeon, Republic of Korea is the owner and proprietor of the following Trademark: reg. no. 4/2105/2012 (28 February 2012) in respect of Tobacco; Cigarettes; Cigars; Snuff; Cigarette papers, Tobacco pipes, not of precious metal; Cigarette filters; Cigarette cases, not of precious metal; Tobacco pouches; Cigarette lighters, not of precious metal; Matches; Tobacco pipe cleaners; Ashtrays for smokers, not of precious metal; Cigar cutters in intl Class 34. Fraudulent or unauthorised use, or actual or colourable imitation of the said mark shall be dealt with according to law. U Than Maung, Advocate For kT & G Corporation, C/o kelvin Chia Yangon Ltd. Unit 1509, 15th Floor, Sakura Tower 339 Bogyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township Yangon, Republic of Union of Myanmar Dated: 25 June 2012 utm@kcyangon.com

BoHeM

The idea is really important here. The most important thing in our country is, if theres a conflict, we need to use dialogue to resolve that conflict, because in democracy thats what you do, you negotiate. Failure to engage in or encourage dialogue could result in the transition stalling, or being set back, at the first hint of trouble. The consequences would be disastrous: It could take 15 or 20 years to get back up and running, he said. The problem with these transitions is that theyre tricky, theyre messy. [We] need to use available democratic institutions like the parliament, the media, and the processes in which dialogue is encouraged, dialogue is used to resolve the differences, he said. Countries like Myanmar with no history of democracy, countries with no rooted democratic traditions, they go forward and run into a roadblock and what is likely to happen is they go back. For U Aung Naing Oo, the deputy director of Thailandbased Vahu Development Institute, the transition is as much a personal as a professional challenge. He left the country in the upheaval of 1988 and joined the All Burma Students Democratic Front. Later, he studied in the United States before returning to Thailand and co-founding Vahu. When President U Thein Sein publicly urged exiles to return home and work for the countrys development in August 2011, the leaders of Vahu, including U Zaw

U Aung Naing Oo. Pic: Ko Taik particular, U Aung Naing Oo referred to the books of South African journalist Allister Sparks, who wrote The Mind of South Africa, Tomorrow is Another Country and then Beyond the Miracle, to explain Myanmars position in the transition process. To me, after 2010, Myanmar has become a lot like another country. No one expected things would change this quick. A lot of isolation and military rule, economic downturn, internal strife, civil war, abuses to suddenly see a country on a different plane, to me it is sort of like a miracle. But then the reality now is, okay if what has happened in the past two years, 18 months, six months, has been a miracle, what should we do, what should we look for, beyond this miracle. In South Africa, the negotiations a lot of people thought they would never happen. So thats why suddenly it was, tomorrows another country, it was a miracle that they could discuss and have dialogue and really both sides were winners. There are lessons we should learn. And of course if you look at South Africa today there are still a lot of problems. But they have used rule of law, they have used democracy, democratic institutions, they have used dialogue to resolve whatever differences they have. So I think the key challenge here is, what do we do, how should we think, what should we think, to get beyond the miracle.

never wanted to leave so all my life IMyanmar has been my destination, this is where my future lies.
Now in 2010 and beyond were no longer isolated but we still have internal strife, peace is being forged but it is still a long way but as I said earlier we have seen the light at the end of the tunnel, unlike before. He likened Myanmar in mid-2012 to South Africa following the historic negotiations between Nelson Mandela and FW de Klerk in the early 1990s. In people thought that the new government was an extension of military rule. So no one expected the change. Even the ministers, even the leadership of the country, even, say, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and the political parties, the international community no one expected change would be this quick. In some ways everybody was caught off guard. Given the 50 years of

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MyanMar tiMes

NGOs ramp up lobbying for changes to organisation law

By Shwe Yee Saw Myint MYANMAR non-government organisations are lobbying Pyithu Hluttaw representatives to change restrictive rules that govern the registration and operations of NGOs. Registration is currently a time-consuming and relatively expensive process, and under the existing law registered organisations are forbidden from accepting members of the clergy, members of political parties or former political prisoners as members. Organisations are calling for the 1988 law to be amended or repealed and also for township officials to adopt a more cooperative approach to NGOs, in line with President U Thein Seins pledge to work more closely with civil society. Daw Nilar Myaing, director of the Local Resource Centre, a Yangon-based body that works to improve operating conditions for civil society organisations and dialogue with donors and the government, said policy changes at the national level were not filtering down to township-level officials, making it difficult for many Myanmar NGOs to operate. We need the right policies and role for local NGOs so we will try to amend the [1988] law at the next hluttaw session. We are negotiating with the Ministry of Home Affairs in Nay Pyi Taw about the current registration process, she said at a May 30 press conference at Yangons Central Hotel. The Local Research Centre surveyed 40 local NGOs and the results showed they were facing some problems, particularly with registration, because the process is not uniform and they have to work with the township officials. The registration fee is K500,000 and this is a burden for smaller organisations, she added. In consultation with 70 Myanmar NGOs, the Local Resource Centre has drafted a set of points that it is pushing to be addressed or included in the new or amended law. A Yangon Region Hluttaw increase cooperation with NGOs [and] intends to loosen restrictions gradually. Meanwhile, NGO representatives who attended the meeting last month said officials in Rakhine State and Mandalay Region were the most difficult to work with. U Maung Thet Tin, a spokesperson for environmental group Seinyaungso, said NGOs in three districts of Mandalay Region had received instructions to register and told that if they did not do so they would be unable to conduct any activities or projects. Those who defied the order would face legal activities in Mandalay but we especially focus on free funeral services. In Mandalay there are 61 social organisations doing free funeral services and until now we just had to pay K30,000 in tax to the Mandalay [City Development Committee] each year. But now the chief minister is forcing us to register, he said. We want to register but the fees are very high we think K10,000 a year is a suitable amount. 88 Generation leader U Ko Ko Gyi said his group faced challenges registering because the 1988 law banned political party members and former political prisoners from joining non-government organisations. It is not fair that NGOs are unable to be involved in politics. I would like to suggest to the government that the 1988 registration law is too restrictive and the government should introduce a new law that is free and fair for all. The Ministry of Home Affairs declined to comment on the issue but U Ko Ko Hlaing, chief presidential adviser for political affairs, said NGOs knew what they needed to do to have the law changed. They have to submit a draft through a Pyithu Hluttaw representative and after it receives the approval of the majority of the hluttaw it will be approved by the president, he said last week. All levels of the government will follow the new law.

Satellite usage surveys planned

By Aye Sapay Phyu THE Japanese government is supporting two surveys on possible uses in Myanmar for an earth observation satellite that is scheduled to be launched in December, the Ministry of Transport said. The ASNARO satellite, provided by the Japanese government, weighs almost 500 kilograms and will have an estimated lifespan of three years. The announcement was made at a press conference in Nay Pyi Taw on June 14 at which Minister for Transport U Nyan Tun Aung handed over the letter of approval to Marubeni Aerospace Corporation for the survey program. Under the agreement, Marubeni Aerospace will conduct a preliminary feasibility study for the development of an advanced small earth observation satellite in Myanmar. The ministry said in a press release that Marubeni Aerospace will work with Japan Space Systems, under the supervision of Japans Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, on the program. The program will include two surveys, the first of which was completed from June 10-20. The second is expected to take place in October concurrently with a joint workshop that will focus on topics including spacerelated national strategies, satellite data use, communication satellite usage and the teaching of space technology in Myanmar universities. Possible uses for an earth observation satellite include disaster management, environmental monitoring, forest management, mining, irrigation and agriculture. Mr Shoichi Satoh, programs manager at Marubeni Aerospace, said at the ceremony that the study would ascertain Myanmars earth observation satellite requirements and usage plans and pave the way for discussions on future cooperation in satellite data use and satellite system development. Our team plans to conduct two local surveys by interviewing space-related key personnel in government organisations, universities, non-government organisations and the private sector in order to highlight which application system will best [assist] Myanmar, he said.

registration law is The 1988government shouldtoo restrictive and the introduce a new law that is free and fair for all.
representative, Daw Nyo Nyo Thin, is assisting the centre and helping it link up with Pyidaungsu Hluttaw representatives and the parliamentary committee for NGO affairs. In April, a presidential adviser said the government would welcome proposed changes to the law, which was introduced in September 1988 following nationwide protests. The current law for [registration of] NGOs will be amended following a proposal from a member of parliament, adviser Dr Nay Zin Latt said. The government wants to action, including five years imprisonment for organisation leaders and three years for members, the groups were told. The chief minister of Mandalay Region told local organisations [in April] to register within two months. But most local NGOs, including our group, are still not registered. In Mandalay Region, officials also warned groups that monks and nuns were not allowed to be members of non-government organisations, said Dr Win Myint, president of the Byamaso group. We do many social welfare

Cries of laughter as clown doctors arrive in Yangon

By Yamon Phu Thit FREEZE put your gun down, the young man shouts comically, pointing a toy gun at the child. While the man wears a long white doctors coat, his face is painted and he has a small arsenal of amusing accessories, including the requisite red nose. When the doctor shoots the gun, colourful bubbles emerge from the barrel and the child laughs hysterically. These unusual scenes have become a regular occurrence each Saturday morning at Yangon Childrens Hospital, when a five-member team of clown doctors does the rounds of the wards to entertain the young patients. The laughter that fills the normally dour rooms is testament to their success. The clown doctor program was established in February 2012 by Mr Edward Wayne Junior, a founder of the United States-based Bridge of Life Foundation. The clown doctors are not medically trained and are not trying to replace mainstream medical treatment. Rather, they seek to alleviate the childrens suffering through entertainment, empowerment and psychological support, said Ko Hein Htike Aung, who has taken the name Dr Nose. The hospitalised children only think of the disease or pain theyre suffering. The doctors and parents also focus their attention on it. The fear and boredom that results can adversely affect the children, he told The Myanmar Times during a recent visit to Yangon Childrens Hospital. We want to cure their minds while real doctors are curing their disease. We want them to forget their fear at hospital and provide them with amusement. The first clown doctor program was established in New York in 1986 by Michael Christensen. It has since spread to many countries in Europe and some in Asia. Bridge of Life Foundation submitted a clown doctors program proposal to Myanmars Ministry of Health, which gave the group permission to conduct the program at Yangon Childrens Hospital. The program has been welcomed by both children and parents, said Ko Htet Paing Oo, known around the wards as Dr Gawky. Parents have not seen their children smile for a long time because they are anxious and upset over their pain. The parents feel relief when they see their children smiling again, he said. Another member of the team, Ma Kyi Nyein Chan Kyaw, agreed that parents welcomed the clown doctors warmly. Sometimes, parents even wake their children up when we arrive because they know we will make them happy. Ko Hein Htike Aung said: We try to distract children, parents and hospital staff during what is normally an anxious and boring time. We want the hospital to be a happy and active environment rather than a boring place. But he said they face some difficulties, particularly because clowns are not common in Myanmar. So some children are afraid of us and some parents seem to think, Who are these people and what are they

Two clown doctors on a recent visit to Yangon Childrens Hospital. Pic: Yamon Phu Thit doing, messing around in here? said Ko Hein Htike Aung. To alleviate these concerns, they try to cooperate as closely as possible with the hospitals doctors and nurses. All of the clown doctors said they wanted to be considered not just sources of entertainment but also providers of psychosocial support to needy children. And the doctors proved popular on the day that The Myanmar Times visited Yangon Childrens Hospital. The mother of patient Mg Ye Kyaw Thu, from Yangons Shwe Pyi Thar township, said she was impressed by the program. We only came to the hospital yesterday so this is the first time we have seen [the clown doctors]. My son was very amused, they were really funny. The grandmother of Mg La Yaung Than from Taikkyi said: My grandson was afraid of them at first but now he likes playing with them. They have many toys to amuse the kids. And what makes a good clown doctor? A sense of humour, energy and optimistic outlook, they agreed. We really need to be happy to be able to make other people happy. We even take a break from this work when we are feeling unhappy ourselves and restart when we feel better, Ko Htet Paing Oo said. Given its success after just six months, the clown doctors said they hope to be able to expand the program to other childrens hospitals around the country.

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June 25 - July 1, 2012
To be really honest at this point I dont think that Myanmar is ready yet to cope with the high demand of mass tourism, said Thomas Moons, front office manager at the colonialstyle Governors Residence hotel in Yangon. At the moment in terms of availability and accommodation that were able to offer, its just not enough to cope with demand, he said. People might think that if they come to Myanmar they will have a cheap holiday when its completely the opposite. While few doubt Myanmars attraction to tourists, some people returning to the country say they enjoyed it more before the hordes arrived. Klaus, a 61-year-old German travelling with his wife in the remote western town of Sittwe, said they were disappointed by their third trip to Myanmar. There are too many people this time, he said, even though it was the peak of hot season. People in hotels used to be so nice smiling and taking care of us but they dont have time anymore, he said. And hotel prices have gone through the roof. International arrivals have rocketed, with almost 365,000 foreigners jetting into the main city Yangon in 2011, up 22 percent on the previous year and almost double the figure for 2003, industry figures show. This year is likely to see another jump, with more than 175,000 arrivals between January and April, against almost 130,000 in the same period of 2011. According to the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism, there are only around 8000 hotels rooms in the city. At Yangons famed golden Shwedagon Pagoda, the slow, circular promenade around the majestic golden spire was until recently mainly the preserve of local couples, children and burgundy-robed monks. But recently foreigners have at times appeared to outnumber locals, their cameras seemingly searching for the rare frame not to include a posse of other visitors. U Phyo Wai Yar Zar, of the Myanmar Tourism Board, said the tourism influx had also caused unprecedented congestion at hotels, especially in Yangon, which have begun inflating their prices in response. Potential holidaymakers may opt for other destinations in the region, he added. Westerners used to the relative ease of travelling Candidly speaking, there have been some tourists who arrived in Myanmar with insufficient information and did not bring enough cash for their stay, said U Phyo Wai Yar Zar. The government is scrambling to improve the countrys tourism infrastructure, with efforts to build new hotels and upgrade transport links at major tourist destinations. A lot of the tourist money is concentrated into certain parts of the country, said Andrew Appleyard at British adventure tour operator Exodus Travels, which returned to the country last year after a decade-long hiatus. Mr Appleyard said the company, which advocates responsible travel, plans to take up to 400 people into the country annually but said there was an awareness that all operators were facing the problem of making money out of an emerging country that cant cope. We will continue to operate there and look at best practice but clients expectations are going to have to be managed, if they go there, he said. Service is slow, things dont always work and you are going to have to share places like Shwedagon with hundreds of tourists. AFP

MyanMar tiMes

Reforms open the tourist floodgates

YANGON The hotels are full or eye-wateringly expensive, creased dollar bills are worthless and credit cards are widely refused welcome to Myanmar, Asias next big tourist destination. The Southeast Asian nation, once shielded from international eyes by a military junta and a travel boycott supported by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, has become a must-see for many travellers. Because the country has been so isolated, the deeply Buddhist Land of the Golden Pagoda resonates with a strong sense of place, undiluted by mass tourism and warmed by genuine hospitality, the New York Times said in January, ranking the country third on its list of the top 45 destinations of 2012. But the influx of tourists is posing a challenge to the burgeoning travel industry in a country where a string of political reforms has not been matched by infrastructure development. The few hotels in Yangon offering international standards of business accommodation have begun to charge up to several hundred dollars a night for rooms that were half the price, if not less, a year ago. Even hoteliers admit that the situation is unsustainable.

Monks light candles at Shwedagon Pagoda during the Thadingyut full moon festival. Pic: Christopher Davy in other Southeast Asian countries, like neighbouring Thailand, are also being caught out by other symptoms of Myanmars long years of isolation. There are almost no places where credit and debit cards or travellers cheques are accepted so visitors must bring all the money they need for their trip with them in US dollar bills. While recent reforms mean there are more official moneychangers competing with the black market, the dollar bills must still be crisp and clean or they will be rejected.

Trade Mark CauTion

NOTICE is hereby given that Singapore Tourism Board, a corporation organized and existing under the laws of Singapore of Tourism Court, and having its principal office at 1 Orchard Spring Lane, Singapore 247729, Singapore is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

(reg: nos. iV/6272/2006 & iV/11760/2011) in respect of:- Bags [envelopes, pouches] of paper or plastics, for packaging; bookends; booklets; bookmarkers; books; boxes of cardboard or paper; cardboard articles; covers [stationery]; document files [stationery]; enveolpes [stationery]; files [office requisites]; folders [stationery]; folders for papers; forms [printed]; handbooks [manuals]; passport holders; stamps [seal] and holders therefor; index cards [stationery]; labels, not of textile; ledgers [books]; packing paper; pamphlets; paperweights; pens [office requisites]; placards of paper or cardboard; posters; stands for pens and pencils; stationery; stickers [stationery]; tear-off calendars; transparencies [stationery]; wrappers [stationery]; wrapping paper; writing paper; catalogues; journals [publication]; loose-leaf publication; magazines [printed publication]; periodical publication; manuals in the form of periodical publications; printed publications for educational institutions; publication containing program descriptions; newsletters; newspapers; notebooks, stationery pads; writing pads; post cards; printed matter; printed publication; printed timetables; prospectus; instructional materials [other than apparatus]; management guides [printed publications]; manuals for instructional purposes; instructional literature; educational materials [other than apparatus] for use in teaching; printed teaching aids; teaching manuals; teaching materials for education; teaching materials for information;

teaching materials for instruction; audiovisual teaching materials [printed matter]; all included in Class: 16. Advertising; business information; business management assistance; business research; marketing research and studies; organization of exhibitions or trade fairs for commercial or advertising purposes; public relations; office functions; office administration services; sales promotion (for others); statistical information; collection, compilation, dissemination and provision of business data, information, directories and advertising material; publication of publicity material; provision of information relating to employment; all included in Class: 35. Educational services; information services relating to education; organizing, arranging and conducting conventions; conferences, seminars, workshops, demonstrations, displays, presentations, symposiums and training, all for educational purposes; organizing, arranging and conducting education fairs and festivals; organizing, arranging and conducting educational orientation programs; educational road shows, youth festivals, exhibitions and educational events; arranging for students to participate in educational courses; arranging for students to participate in educational activities; organizing; arranging and conducting competitions for educational, entertainment or sporting purposes; professional consultancy services relating to education and training; career advisory services (educational and training advice); career counselling (training and education advice); career information and advisory services (educational and training advice); management of educational services; advising and providing information on universities, colleges, polytechnic, schools and academic institutions; advising and providing information on courses and admission procedures; conducting educational courses; conducting educational examination; conducting personal development courses, lifestyle courses, fine arts, designs; performing arts, culinary, sports and adventure courses, organizing, arranging and conducting oversea training; organising; arranging and conducting basic education, higher learning, corporate education and enrichment courses; adivising and providing information on education, entertainment, sporting and cultural activities; club services [entertainment or education];

computer based educational services; computer assisted educational services; library services; physical education; practical training [demonstration]; providing sports facilities; providing recreational facilities; publication of educational materials; publication of educational texts, printed matter relating to education; providing on-line electronic publications (not downloadable); publication of electronic books and journals on-line; dissemination of educational materials; providing on-line educational information services; conducting correspondence courses and courses through internet; providing on-line information relating to academic institutions, courses, admission procedure and financial aid and assistance; educational services provided on-line from a computer database, namely, the provision of lesson plan information, education and teaching topics; provision of information on-line from a computer database for teachers, students, and parents in the field of education; information on professional and career education and training provided on-line from a computer database or the Internet; publication of directories relating to tourism; publication of directories relating to travel; publication of maps; all included in Class: 41. Accommodation finding service for students; provision of temporary accommodation; rental of temporary accommodation; accommodation services for celebrations, functions and meetings; providing facilities [accommodation] for conducting conferences, fairs, conventions and exhibitions; arranging of accommodation in boarding houses and youth hostels; temporary accommodation reservation; providing information related to all the aforesaid services; all included in Class: 43 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for Singapore Tourism Board, P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 25th June, 2012

News
June 25 - July 1, 2012
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MyanMar tiMes

Middles school curriculum gets disaster, environment subjects

By Aye Sapay Phyu ENVIRONMENTAL conservation and natural disaster knowledge have been introduced to the middle school curriculum across lower Myanmar this academic year, a Ministry of Education official said in last week. She said the contents of the Life Skills subject taught at standards five, six and seven had been revised to include information on environmental conservation, water usage, proper disposal methods for rubbish and natural disasters. The revised Life Skills subject has been taught as a compulsory subject in 45 townships in Yangon Region since the [201112] academic year. This year the revised curriculum has been introduced in all schools under Basic Education Department No 1 in lower Myanmar and it is planned to implement in schools under Basic Education Department No 2 in upper Myanmar in the [2013-14] academic year, she said. The revised Life Skills subject also includes knowledge on general health, social skills, drug use and reproductive health. In the old curriculum of the Life Skills subject, which was introduced for middle school students in 2000-01, the focus was mainly on health awareness. The revised one was developed by staffs from the Ministry of Education, and international and national consultants supported by the United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF), she said. Students will learn about eight types of natural disasters that can afflict Myanmar, including storms, floods, earthquakes, landslides, tornadoes, thunder, fires and tsunamis. Basic knowledge about storms, floods and tsunami has been introduced in primary schools since before Nargis [in 2006]. Middle school students will learn about the nature of natural hazards, potential areas that can be affected, how to look after themselves, the consequences of disasters and what they should do before, during and after a disaster in the revised Life Skills subject, she said. She said UNICEF had provided supplementary reading materials on disasters in Myanmar and these had been distributed schools across the country to improve students disaster awareness.

Court accepts UEC filing against NLD spokesman

By Sandar Lwin and Win Ko Ko Latt A TOWNSHIP court in Nay Pyi Taw last week agreed to proceed with a case of electoral misconduct against the campaign manager of the National League for Democracy over the waxed ballots fiasco. The NLD had alleged that ballots with wax over the box next to the name of the NLD candidate, making it difficult to vote for them, had been found in 10 constituencies in the April 1 by-elections, including Pale, Mawlamyine, Myanaung, Magwe, Taungdwingyi, Kawhmu, Mingalar Taung Nyunt, Mayangone, Dagon Seikkan and Kalaw. In May, state media reported that the Union Election Commission had found no evidence that ballots were covered in wax and warned that those who filed spurious complaints could face legal action. Accordingly, the UEC filed a law suit at Zabuthiri Township Court, Nay Pyi Taw, against U Nyan Win, the campaign manager and general secretary of the NLD, under section 182 of the Penal Code. If convicted he faces six months in prison, a fine of K1000 or both. The court heard appeals from both sides on [June 14] as to whether the charge should be accepted the court has accepted it and set the next court date for June 26, U Nyan Win said last week. The NLD applied for bail and this was granted and set at K2 million, said U Kyaw Hoe, one of three lawyers representing U Nyan Win. This kind of case is eligible for bail. It is in accord with the law. There are no restrictions other than to come to the court regularly, U Nyan Win said.

Activists call for adherence to land policy

By Ei Ei Toe Lwin LAND rights activists have mostly welcomed President U Thein Seins comments on land use but warned that all levels of government ministries need to properly implement laws and policies. The president dedicated a significant section of his June 19 speech, which focused on economic reform, to land use issues, warning that land speculation was holding back the implementation of housing development and investment projects. We have difficulties in land management as squatters on forest land, virgin and fallow land and others are acting as if they originally own the plot they illegally occupied, he said in the nationally televised address. The result is widespread problems and because of these problems we are not in a position to allot a large number of hectares of land for investments as other countries do. He said that the government had established a Land Allocation and Utilisation Scrutiny Committee for Urban Development Projects and Investment Projects so as to formulate land use policies in line with laws, rules and regulations. Union ministries and region and state governments will have to submit proposals for land allotment and utilisation for their urban development projects, investment projects, mines, gems, energy and mineral mining, plantation and livestock farming projects to the committee for its approval, the president said. The committee will scrutinise the proposals and then coordinate with the national government, Myanmar Investment Commission, Privatisation Commission and relevant departments to decide on the appropriate course of action. Currently, procedures and land allotment specifications of respective land-related department are different from each other and thus are not in a position for practical management on the ground. Effective management could not be streamlined without reformulation and enactment of practical laws and procedures and taxation system which meet the conditions of present time and

A bulldozer destroys freshly ploughed fields in Alwan Sut village, Thanlyin township last month. Pic: Ko Taik international norms, U Thein Sein added. Land rights activists said they agreed with most points the president made but said it was important that government departments, particularly in the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation, properly followed his instructions. U Win Cho, a lawyer who has assisted farmers in land disputes around Yangon, said some saytanar (benevolence) has definitely not reached the people yet. U Nay Myo Wai, chairman of the Peace and Diversity Party, agreed that property speculation was a major problem. Brokers buy land and hold on to it, hoping to sell again to developers at a much higher price. These [land] difficulties are created by the brokers, said U Nay Myo Wai, who has been assisting according to the government policy or not. Our party publicises these cases constantly. While most of the recent highprofile land disputes have occurred in the vicinity of Yangon, activists said land-grabbing and property speculation were an issue across the country. In the Dawei area of Tanintharyi Region, near a planned special economic zone, there are so many land issues between land they possess an equal amount of land, he said. Theres also no transparency about the project implementation and residents have a lack of understanding about the project. U Win Myo Thu, managing director of EcoDev and an outspoken advocate of land reform, said the wishes of the majority of people, rather than a small business elite or foreign investors, needed to be taken into account when formulating land laws and land use policies. Policy should not be implement only from an administrative point of view. It should be implemented for the benefit of the majority of people, he said. The land issue is very complicated. The government should not necessarily look at it just in a legal sense, they must also take into account human rights and the traditional rights of the people. We will have to wait and see whether land use policy will improve and bring better results or whether this problematic situation will only get worse.

These land difficulties are created by the brokers. Real developers should discuss with the farmers directly.
ministries were struggling to adjust to the presidents reform agenda. Farmers are not against the policies that have been adopted by the government, they just want to see transparency [in implementation], he said, adding that the governments reforms had had little impact on the lives of most Myanmar so far. The impact of the presidents farmers involved in a land dispute with Zaykabar in Mingalardon township. Real developers should discuss with the farmers directly. Farmers do not ask much money. Now the president is talking about the Land Allocation and Utilisation Scrutiny Committee. I think political parties and the media have a duty to watch whether they are really working owners and brokers, brokers and companies, developer and land owners. There are also disputes between local residents, said U Thant Sin, coordinator of the Dawei Development Association. He said the main causes of the dispute was a lack of transparency in terms of compensation. [Residents] do not get compensate equally, even when

TiMESbusiness
By Aye Thidar Kyaw CAR traders have tipped prices to fall further in the wake of the Ministry of Rail Transportations announcement that registration taxes for vehicles with older number plates would be significantly reduced. The notice was printed in the Myanmar edition of the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper on June 16 and stated that owners of cars bearing licence plates 20 years or older would receive registration fee reductions of 40-60 percent when importing a newer vehicle. Within three days of the notice import licences issued under the overage car import substitution scheme, which can be used to import cars made between 1995 and 2006, had fallen to K5.5 million from K6.5 million, traders at the Hantharwaddy car trading zone in Yangon said. The import substitution scheme was announced in September last year and was intended to remove older cars from the road, supposedly for environmental reasons. However, the program was suspended on May 7 at number plates with the pazuat prefix. A man looks at a newly imported Suzuki Swift at Hantharwaddy car trading zone last week. Pic: Boothee

June 25 - July 1, 2012

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Govt adjusts vehicle import process, again

MyanMar tiMes

Shortly afterwards a separate import program was started that allowed anybody with at least US$10,000 in a state-run bank to import a car made in 2007 or later. However, the June 16 notice is aimed at removing pazuat- and balachaik-prefix number plate

cars from the road, although the announcement specifically states that the government will not forcibly remove them. Pazuat cars will receive a reduction of 40pc when registering a newly imported car, while those with the balachaik prefix will be granted a 60pc reduction.

A Ministry of Commerce official said the latest changes were aimed at reducing the cost of importing a newer vehicle for owners of older cars. The situation is tough for old car owners because they must first give up their old car and then pay the tax on the import, a Ministry

of Commerce official said. U Kyaw Nyunt, a car dealer at Hantharwaddy, said cars with 1350-cubic-centimetre or smaller engines made later than 2007 had become the most sought after vehicles. He said prices for these vehicles started at about K15 million but would likely come down to K13 million as more arrived in coming months. Container ships carrying the newer model cars have just started to arrive at the port in Yangon so they will begin to hit the market in late June, he said. Prices for 2007-model and newer cars should keep falling because its easy for people to import them and more will keep arriving, he added. He said buying replacement parts for the newer cars as well as their small engines would mean the newer cars would not retain their value in coming years. The New Light of Myanmar announcement said about 54,906 vehicles had been submitted to the government for scrapping since to June 14, with 48,919 permits so-far applied for. It added that the government had earned about $97.35 million in import taxes.

Investment conference draws mixed reaction from crowd

By Victoria Bruce HUNDREDS of delegates attended an investment conference at Yangons Parkroyal Hotel last week but many said they left with key questions unanswered. Around 300 delegates from more than 250 companies from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, India, China, Vietnam, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and Bangladesh attended the 2012 New Myanmar Investment Summit on June 20 and 21. Singaporean businessman and managing director of Inle Investment Partners, a firm focusing on investments in infrastructure and energy, U Moe Moe Oo, said there were still many grey areas concerning foreign investment in Myanmar. As an investor, my main concerns are around ownership issues, disputes with joint venture partners, arbitration and enforcement issues, U Moe Oo said. A lot of this focuses on big issues such as the rule of law that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has raised. However, at this point in time, none of that seems to be clear. U Moe Moe Oo said the government was keen to secure foreign investment to gain credibility for its reform process. But the problem is that although they know they want foreign investors to engage in Myanmar, they dont really seem to know how to do it beyond telling us we are welcome to invest, he said. Dr Kan Zaw, the deputy minister for National Planning and Economic Development, said the governments new investment law would put Myanmar in line with international standards and make it more competitive regionally. Parami Energy Group chief executive officer U Ken Tun encouraged foreign investors to test Myanmars market during his presentation. Businessmen, if you wait until 2015, I dont know what opportunities will be left for you, he said. The managing director of a Yangon-based market research company said Myanmar was open for business and their investments would be protected by the existing Foreign Investment Law. You can start doing business in Myanmar you do not have to wait for the new foreign investment law, said U Moe Kyaw of Myanmar Marketing Research Development. Previously, a web of overlapping US sanctions on Myanmar were the biggest deterrent to Western investors, U Moe Kyaw said. He added that the US governments recent suspension of sanctions would encourage new investment from that country. German businessman Joerg Gulden, managing partner of German-based integrated advisory firm Roedl & Partners, said the current investment framework was encouraging but a more comprehensive legal framework would be required before the country attracted sustainable foreign investment. The conference drew a good picture of todays investment climate in Myanmar: a typical frontier market with big opportunities, big risks and even bigger uncertainties, Mr Gulden said. It showed an investment framework that might be acceptable for foreign investments in the primary sector, but is far from being ready for capital intensive and sustainable foreign direct investment, he said. Dr Kan Zaw said Western investors could surpass China and Thailand as the biggest contributors to Myanmars economy. Western countries will be the top investors in Myanmar in the coming years, Dr Kan Zaw said. However, American lawyer Steven Dickinson said Myanmar still had a long way to go before becoming an attractive investment option for Western firms. Other than for oil and gas, Western companies wont come to Myanmar for some time, said Mr Dickinson, a lawyer for Hong Kong-based law firm Harris & Moure. He said a lack of infrastructure and high operating costs, coupled with political instability and a crippled banking system, would deter many Western investors, particularly those in the manufacturing industry. Thats a bad thing for Myanmar because there are people who are going to come here, particularly for the areas of oil and gas, minerals and timber, Mr Dickinson said. And those investors are going to strip the country bare, leave the money in the hands of a few top people and give little back to the general population, he said. Alessio Polastri, managing partner of Yangon-based law firm P&A Asia and a speaker at the conference, said he had received a positive response from most participants. However, he said the high price of land was a major deterrent to potential investors. Land prices are a dealbreaker, Mr Polastri said. Seventy-five percent people who contacted me were already planning to invest they are cash-ready but they couldnt complete the negotiation because the price of the land was too high, Mr Polastri told The Myanmar Times. Delegates paid up to US$1495 each for the event, which was organised by Centre for Management Technology, a Singaporebased firm.

Dr Kan Zaw is interviewed by journalists at the New Myanmar Investment summit last week. Pic: Ko Taik

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June 25 - July 1, 2012

MyanMar tiMes

CAEXPO focuses on science, tech

THE 9 China-ASEAN Expo (CAEXPO) will be held in Nanning, China on September 21-25, with this years focus on cooperation in science and technology. CAEXPOs Secretariat said the preparations for the upcoming event are in full swing. The 2012 edition of the CAEXPO marks the 10th year after the Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Economic Cooperation between ASEAN and China was concluded, and also marks the Year of ChinaASEAN Science and Technology Cooperation. The 9th CAEXPO will be another diverse and colourful event that will feature five pavilions showcasing commodity trading, investment cooperation, advanced technology, trade in services and the cities of charm. However, CAEXPO will also feature the ChinaASEAN Science & Technology Ministers Conference to celebrate the theme of this years event, while there will also be a series of high-end conferences, forums and activities. Many ASEAN and Chinese leaders will personally visit the grand event. CAEXPO, co-sponsored by the governments of Myanmar, China and the other ASEAN member states, has been successfully held every year since 2004. It has become an important platform for friendly exchanges, business promotion and bilateral cooperation in various fields between ASEAN and China. The previous eight CAEXPOs attracted 42 ASEAN and Chinese leaders, more than 1500 ministerial level VIPs and 316,000 participants. The event has also hosted more than 200 high-level conferences, forums and activities. ADVERTORIAL
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Amended foreign investment law set for July 4 parliament session

Delayed bill includes adjustments to land use provisions and increases duration of investments
By Aye Thidar Kyaw and Juliet Shwe Gaung MYANMARS amended Foreign Investment Law will be resubmitted to parliament on July 4, Dr Kan Zaw, Deputy Minister for National Planning and Economic Development, said last week. Key changes to the draft that was submitted earlier this year concern land use, Dr Kan Zaw said during the New Myanmar Investment Summit at the Parkroyal Hotel in Yangon on June 20. P r e s i d e nt U Thei n Sei n highlighted the importance of workable laws and regulations to potential investors during his state of the union address on national television on June 19. That is why the needed laws and regulations are drawn again according to the international regulations and soon, the foreign investment law will [be submitted to] the Pyidaungsu hluttaw, the president said. Also, the draft Myanma Special Economic Zone Law has [been] finished and after getting opinions from respective departments and business organisations, it will be submitted to the hluttaw, he said. Dr Kan Zaw added that the financial, taxation, trade, investment and industrial regulations within the draft law have also been amended. He said the countrys economic doors were open and he welcomed investors. An additional amendment changes the duration of investment from an initial period of 30 years, followed by two 15-year extensions to a 50-year investment followed by two 10-year periods, he said. The amended law enables companies to form joint ventures with domestic partners by putting in at least 35 percent of the investment or enter the country as wholly owned Locals who rent land to foreign investors also opt to use the lease money to buy a share in the project, which is one way of providing extra opportunities for people. Mr G Seelan, the managing director of Singapore-based Centre for Management Technology (CMT), which organised the two-day New Myanmar Investment Summit 2012, said more than 250 foreign companies and 20 domestic firms had attended the event. Although the [Myanmar Foreign Investment Law] has not passed yet we feel that people should be prepared, he said. He added that while huge multinationals had not begun investing in Myanmar yet, a patient approach would yield dividends in future. US sanctions were only eased about a month ago, so it will take some time for big investments to come. And the investment law is going to be passed soon, he added. He said the company was also organising a conference on the mining industry at the end of July.

US sanctions were only eased about a month ago, so it will take some time for big investments to come.
The main change [to the draft] regards land use but there have also been amendments to the duration of investment, he said. He said the 1988 law states that foreign investors are only allowed to lease land owned by the government but the new draft would allow leases of privately owned land, which greatly expands potential investment sites. foreign enterprises. However, some sectors would remain protected and would not be open to 100pc-owned foreign firms, he said. The economic situation of Myanmar in 2012 has improved from before, he said. It could be considered that there are not any situations [for potential investors] to be worried [about] and [the situation is] looking good.

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Job watch
The Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research Australian Government (ACIAR) is a statutory Australian Centre for authority that operInternational Agricultural Research ates as part of the Australian Government's development cooperation programs. ACIAR funds research projects that are developed within a framework reflecting the priorities of Australia's aid program and national research strengths, together with the agricultural research and development priorities of partner countries. Our functions are to: commission research into improving sustainable agricultural production in developing countries fund project related training communicate the results of funded research conduct and fund development activities related to research programs administer the Australian Government's contribution to the International Agricultural Research Centres. ACIAR is seeking to recruit the following non ongoing position to be based in Rangoon: Program Co-Ordinator (US$17,720 to US$20,480 per annum) The duty statements and selection criteria can be obtained from the Australian Embassy website http://www.myanmar.embassy.gov.au/ rang/aboutus.html For further information about this position please contact Dr Gamini Keerthisinghe +61 2 6217 0558 Closing date for the applications will be 4PM (Rangoon time) July 6, 2012.

Workers arrange freshly unloaded fish at a market in Yangon. Pic: Boothee

UNICEF VACANCY Education Officer, based in Taunggyi (NO-B)

UNICEF Myanmar requires a dynamic, motivated, creative and committed professional individual to support the implementation of education interventions as supported by UNICEF. This includes monitoring of overall progress in terms of programme implementation, building partnership and collaboration for UNICEF supported intervention at the Township and State levels in Taunggyi. Major Duties: Undertake on-going assessments in Education focusing on access and quality of primary education; facilitate the implementation and monitoring of Education Programme activities; build partnerships and strengthen collaboration with and capacity of government counterparts in use of data for local situation analysis, planning and management of UNICEF supported intervention; plan, facilitate and monitor Township and school level trainings and delivery of educational supplies to schools and ECD centers; support more effective use of the school cluster system; share relevant findings with sub-office team members toward strengthening programme convergence; support and facilitate inter-sectoral collaboration on cross-cutting issues and coordination in the suboffice; participate in emergency preparedness and response. Qualifications and Experiences: University degree in Social Sciences or related technical field; two years progressively responsible experience in Education (policy, curriculum and teacher education), programme design, administration, monitoring and evaluation or related field; fluency in English and another UN language required. knowledge of the local working language of the duty station is an asset. Detailed Terms of Reference may be reviewed at UNICEF Myanmar Office. Qualified and interested candidates should submit CV and a cover letter to HR Unit, Traders Hotel, 15th. Floor, 223, Sule Pagoda Road, Yangon, by 9th July 2012.Applications may be sent electronically to: jobs.yangon@unicef.org Note: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for further review. Female candidates are encouraged to apply.
For every child Health, Education, Equality, Protection ADVANCE HUMANITY

Farmed fish production falls

By Soe Sandar Oo FISH production this year has been sharply curtailed following significant increases in production costs and an unstable foreign exchange rate that has hurt profits, a Myanmar Fish Farmers Association official said last week. U Than Lwin, the associations chairman, said the combination of higher production costs and declining exports in the past 24 months had persuaded farmers to reduce their investment, which had resulted in lower production. Farmers have faced an unstable foreign exchange rate for more than a year, with production costs rising in recent months, he said. And although the US dollar exchange rate has been improving, transport, wages and feed fees have been rising, he said. He added that the reduced production was being felt in Yangons fish markets. Ma Mon, a fish wholesaler at the Sanpya Fish Market in Kyeemyindaing township, confirmed that the stock of fish available in the market had fallen noticeably. Trading hours at the market are from 2am to 6am. Usually, the busiest time is 4-5am but starting from about a fortnight ago both buyers and sellers have left the market by 4:30am because theres no more fish, she said. M a M o n s aid so me f i sh farmers had switched to agriculture or other businesses because fish farming was no longer profitable. U Than Lwin said the association was working to solve the problem but warned that the situation was likely to get worse before it improved. If we cannot encourage farmers to boost their inputs, then the production and export of freshwater fish will continue to fall, he said. About 13,830 tonnes of f reshw ater f ish had been exported by mid-June, Department of Fisheries statistics showed, compared with more than 18,000 tonnes at the same time last year. U Than Lwin said rohu, a freshwater fish popular with farmers, made up the majority of the decreased exports. He said freshwater fish was selling for about K2000 a viss (1.6 kilograms or 3.6 pounds) in 2010 when the exchange rate was about K1200 to the dollar. But prices fell to K1300 a viss mid-2011 when the exchange rate hit a low of about K690. The price of farmed freshwater fish was K1400K1500 in Yangon last week, while the exchange rate was about K840. Ko Aye Ko, the owner of fish farm in Ayeyarwady Regions Maubin township, said farmers were losing K600-K700 for every viss they farmed, adding that it costs about K2 million to farm 1 acre. Exporter U Myint Sein said the export climate was starting to improve because the foreign exchange rate and export prices were rising. U Han Tun, vice president of the Myanmar Fisheries Federation, said bad weather and the ban on fishing during spawning season were contributing to starve the market of fish. If we go on like this prices will continue rising for the rest of rainy season, he said. There are 219,982 acres of freshwater fish farms and 3721 ponds in Myanmar, according to Department of Fisheries statistics. Exports of farmed fish earned US$105 million in the 2011-12 financial year from 90,305 tonnes.

PTTEP heads investment drive

Job Vacancy
NTT Communications is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world.(ranked 31st in the Fortune Global 500 list of 2011), is seeking individuals for the following candidates are encouraged to apply. Position Title : Sales staff- 1 position 1) Working experience in sales or pre-sales 2) Working with Telecommunications company or related 3) Good command in Japanese would be advantage 4) Basic Computer literacy especially MS Office software. Position Title : Admin Staff- 1 position 1) Working experience in sales, administration, or accounting 2 Good command in Japanese would be advantage 3) Basic Computer literacy especially MS Office software. Please submit your application letter with CV with a recent photo and copies of educational certificates to; NTT Communications(Thailand) Co., Ltd 6th floor, Dusit Thani Bldg., 946 Rama IV Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500, Thailand E-mail: sakurai.me@ntt.co.th

THAILANDS PTT Exploration and Production International increased its oil and gas foothold in Myanmar this month by signing two production sharing contracts with Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise. The company signed the deals, which related to onshore blocks PSC-G and EP-2, on June 6, the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper reported. Myanmar is one of our focus countries in upstream petroleum, and were also preparing gas development plans for its central government, PTTEP chief executive officer Tevin Vongvanich told Bangkok Post recently. PTTEP was awarded exploration and production concessions in the PSC-G and EP-2 blocks, which cover 13,333 square kilometres and 1344 square kilometres respectively, in January. PTTEP is partnering with Win Precious Resources on the exploration of both blocks, said Ma Tin Nilar Soe, PTTEPs external relations officer. Thai companies are also actively exploring other areas of investment potential in anticipation of changes to the investment

climate, a Thai embassy official said to The Myanmar Times last week. An amended foreign investment law is set to be put before parliament on July 4, which is widely expected to help attract interest from a number of countries, including Thailand. At least 10 business matching meetings between Thai and Myanmar businesspeople have been held in the past year, said Mr Prajuab Supinee, commercial counsellor at the Thai embassy in Yangon. Mr Supinee said the meetings have not focused on financial issues but on gaining greater understanding of the current situation and building beneficial contacts with Myanmar businesses. There are four sectors here that Thai businesspeople are particularly interested in: food, construction, medicine and garments, he said. As a least developed country, Myanmar could benefit from lower tax rates imposed on certain trade items imposed by developed countries in a generalised system of preferences, he added. Myat May Zin, United Press International

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and agricultural firms are already exploring investment opportunities in Myanmar. Theres been interest from a Brisbane-based property development and construction company specialising in modular building systems that could possibly service Myanmars huge demand for hotel and serviced accommodation, he said. He added that representatives from oil and gas giant BHP Petroleum recently visited. BHP have been revisiting the previous onshore opportunities in the oil and gas sector and no doubt eyeing the lucrative offshore market, the consultant said. And if youve got BHP Petroleum coming in here then it would be highly likely BHP Billiton will be hot on their heels. Australias mining expertise, he added, could provide essential technology to help exploit Myanmars rich resource reserves. Nestled between the heavyweight economies of India and China, Myanmar has proven natural resources, including oil and gas, minerals, gems and forestry, and vast potential for new agricultural projects. Recent political and economic reforms by President U Thein Seins government have been rewarded as many Western nations including the United States, Europe and Australia suspended or lifted sanctions restricting trade and investment and stepped up aid and development budget commitments. Myanmar economy expert and professor at Macquarie University Sean Turnell said Australian expertise in areas such as agriculture was in high demand. Australia has a lot to offer Burma as we are a big, rich resource/agricultural-led economy while Burma is a big but poor resource-rich agricultural economy, Prof Turnell said. He added that Australia could step up its presence in Myanmar as an alternative to Chinese or Asian investment. The biggest players here are other Asian countries and in that there is a bit of an upside for Australia. Theres a real hankering for connections with the West, mostly the US because its the most visible, but in a sense Australia could profit from that. However, Mr Turnell said many investors had been surprised by how difficult it was to do business in Myanmar. Limited infrastructure and restrictive legal and economic conditions are the main hindrances to international investment, he said. U Myat Thu Winn, managing director of Shwe Minn Tha Enterprises Co, a family-owned group of real estate, media and printing companies, said foreign investment in the construction and tourism sectors could give a much needed shot in the arm to the countrys economy and provide jobs for thousands. I understand that if youre a businessman youre trying to make money, but I encourage new foreign investors to think of how they can also contribute to the community, U Myat Thu Winn said. Tim Harcourt, former chief economist of Austrade, the Australian governments trade and investment arm, said investors have much to offer Myanmar. Australia could help Burma develop its rural industries as well as in education and training in tourism in much the same way as in Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. The emphasis will be in capacity building and helping people to reach their potential. But it would be a softly, softly approach provided the pro-democracy reforms continue.

MyanMar tiMes

Australian businesses set to boost Myanmar stake

By Victoria Bruce AUSTRALIAN firms are being tipped to take up the challenge of investing in Myanmar following the early June announcement by Foreign Minister Bob Carr to lift all remaining travel and financial sanctions on the country. In Yangon, the lobbies and bars of the citys highend hotels have transformed into impromptu offices for foreign investors including a new stream of Australians seeking their fortune in the resource-rich country. Right now, Myanmar is a blank canvas, one investor said. And were the artists. A Yangon-based business consultant said some Australian construction

Trade Mark CauTion

Henkel aG & Co. kGaa, a Company incorporated in Germany, of Henkelstrasse 67, 40589 Dsseldorf, Germany, is the Owner of the following Trade Marks:-

reg. no. 4171/2012 in respect of Class 3: Bleaching preparations and other substances for laundry use, rinsing agents for laundry and tableware, stain removing preparations; cleaning, polishing, scouring and abrasive preparations, chemical agents for cleaning metal, enameled sheet metal, wood, cork, porcelain, ceramic, glass, plastic, leather and textiles; spot remover; soaps not for personal use, perfumery, essential oils. Class 5: Disinfectants and deodorising agents, not for personal use, air refreshing and air deodorising agents.

BreF

reg. no. 4172/2012 in respect of Class 5: Insecticides, insect repellents, inset attractants, adhesives and/or adhesive strips for catching insects; agents for disruption or inhibition of mating of insects; preparations for destroying vermin; disinfectant; fungicides, herbicides; parasiticides and antiparasitic preparations. Class 21: Electric and/or electronic apparatus, instruments and devices for use in destroying, attracting and killing insects; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods; devices for trapping, repelling, capturing or killing insects and vermin; vermin and insect traps or catchers, cockroach traps or catchers; cups, jars or dishes for trapping insects.

CoMBaT

reg. no. 4173/2012 in respect of Class 1: Chemical preparations for industrial use; washing raw materials. Class 3: Bleaching preparations and other substances for laundry use, rinsing agents for laundry and tableware, fabric softeners, laundry starch, stain removing agents; cleaning, polishing, scouring and abrasive preparations, soaps, perfumery; essential oils; cosmetics; hair lotions; dentifrices. Class 5: Disinfectants. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Henkel aG & Co. kGaa P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 25th June, 2012

PerWoLL

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Real estate agents say demand for high-quality housing for foreigners is greater than supply. Pic: Ko Taik

Rental market strong before start of Lent

By Noe Noe Aung YANGONS rental market is running hot even as the traditional lull signaled by the start of Lent in early July approaches, several agents said last week. Agents and brokers who spoke with The Myanmar Times said most of the rental interest is coming from foreigners coming to take a closer look at the countrys business climate. The rental market is surprisingly strong this year. In most years we see increased numbers of rents before Lent begins but this year were taking queries from foreigners look to set up diplomatic residences, houses or offices, said Ma Tharaphu, a manager of Pan Sagar War real estate agency in Lanmadaw township. Houses, apartments and condominiums are all in strong demand. But this highlights Yangons lack of housing for foreigners and the high prices of hotel rooms and serviced apartments, she said. A lot of the people looking for accommodation want to spend more time in Yangon but dont want to pay for hotels any more, she added. Ma Tharaphu said the company was receiving twice as many rental queries compared wit the same period last year. She added that houses in Hlaing, Bahan, Kamaryut, Mayangone and Yankin townships were the most sought after, although condominiums in Pabedan township, especially on Yaw Min Gyi Street, were also popular. People are coming to look at investing in Myanmar but they want to investigate the situation first, which means they need to live here and want to do so for a reasonable price, Ma Tharaphu said. U Min Min Soe, a real estate agent in Latha township, confirmed that the rental market was hot this year. Rentals for both house and apartments are really up this year. But its not unusual to see lots of rental activity before Lend starts because many people believe that you shouldnt move house during those months, he said. However, he added that the number of deals made this year was much higher than in previous years. U Min Min Soe said he had also fielded a number of queries regarding buying properties in Yanogn. There are so many foreigners who are here looking to invest in different sectors, including property but many people have told me that prices here are even higher than their home countries. For that reason I dont think too many will buy properties here, he said. Ko Aung Kyaw Moe, a real estate agent for an agency in Kamaryut township, said demand for quality rental houses and apartments was greater than the available supply. New embassies have been set up in Yangon this year, which means that the foreign diplomats who work at those embassies must also find places to live nearby. But there is not enough available housing at the standard that people are expecting, he said. Condominiums in Kamaryut and Bahan townships are also popular. Many foreigners like these parts of the city. But houses in Bahan, Mayangone and Kamaryut townships remain the most popular choice for foreigners who can afford to live there, he said. Ko Aung Kyaw Moe said prices varied tremendously but apartments up to K700,000 and houses between K1- and K2 million were proving popular with foreigners.

Oracle chief buys Hawaiian island

LOS ANGELES Oracle boss Larry Ellison has bought a Hawaiian island from a fellow multi-billionaire businessman, the governor of the US Pacific Ocean state said on June 20. Ellison, co-founder and chief executive officer of the tech giant, has purchased 98 percent of the 141square-mile (365 square kilometres) island of Lanai from its owner Castle & Cooke, said governor Neil Abercrombie. Castle & Cooke, a Los Angeles-based company headed by businessman David Murdock, filed a transfer application with Hawaiis Public Utilities Commission, said a statement posted on the governors website. It is my understanding that Mr Ellison has had a long standing interest in Lanai, Abercrombie said. His passion for nature, particularly the ocean, is well known, specifically in the realm of Americas Cup sailing. He is also a businessman whose record of community involvement in medical research and education causes is equally notable. We look forward to welcoming Mr Ellison in the near future, he added. The price paid by the Oracle chief was not specified, but the island states Star Advertiser newspaper quotes Castle & Cooke as saying it was hundreds of millions of dollars. The seller added that Ellison plans to bring new investment to Lanai that should boost tourism and create jobs on the island, which includes two resort hotels and a golf course, among other facilities. The buyer anticipates making substantial investments in Lanai and is looking forward to partnering with the people of Lanai to chart the islands future, the company said, according to the paper. Lanai was formerly known as Pineapple Island, but Murdock has had bumpy relations with some residents over his uprooting of the pineapple industry in favour of resort and housing developments, it said. California-based Ellisons net worth is estimated at US$36 billion by Forbes magazine, which ranks him sixth in its global rich list, while Murdocks is somewhat lower, at $2.7 billion, sharing 442nd place. AFP

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down some more ramshackle houses, several people timidly approached the clerk sent by the mayor to list the people ready to go. Can you put down no. 52 too?, asked one young man. I want to leave Craica because my children are the laughing stock of everyone at school who knows they live here, he told AFP. At the far end of the shantytown, Geta Boros, 28, hastily gathers some pieces of furniture and some clothes, just before the excavator reduces her home to a pile of wood. Im afraid living at Cuprom will be like being in jail, but what am I to do here, my neighbours have all gone, she said. As soon as the excavator is driven away, several men rush to gather the pieces of wood left behind. Well use it to heat ourselves next winter, one of them said. But the clerk, Ioan Dumitru, seems to know better. Little by little, everyone will leave, he says with a smile, adding: As you can see, nobody is pressuring them. Maybe so, but several people complained that the authorities had cut their admittedly-illegal electricity connections and planned to deprive Craica of its only water source, so that even the most reluctant would have no choice but to leave. Constantin Boldijar, 26, is among those who chose to move to Cuprom. With his wife and four daughters he inspects the room they will share in Block No. 3, a building previously housing chemical labs. This is a hundred times better than Craica, he said, even if works to sanitise the building are still under way, and some rooms have no windows. Therell be no more microbes, lice or rats to bite our children, said a father of two boys playing in the yard among the rubble. Since the programme started on June 1, about a hundred families have moved into the three Cuprom buildings. Electricity, water and heating will be free of charge, with the municipality footing the bills. But Rodica, a 39-year-old mother of four, complained there was just one toilet on every floor and no kitchen. The mayor stressed that families can go to a neigbouring compound built with European aid to take a shower, get a hot meal and enroll their children in a kindergarten. But food portions are limited to about 70 daily. For Geta Boros, it is a case of grudgingly accepting the inevitable. She has to think of her children first: They will be better off here.

MyanMar tiMes

Italian Roma face slum or chemical plant

By Mihaela Rodina BAIA MARE, Romania, June 19, 2012 (AFP) - Defiant Aurica Ciucur speaks for many in her Roma camp incensed by a local authoritys plans to relocate them to a former chemical factory forced to close over pollution concerns. They want to tear down my house and make me go away? Over my dead body! said Ciucur, 54. Dozens of people living at Craica, a shantytown on the outskirts of the northeastern Romanian city of Baia Mare, told AFP they would rather die than leave their clay or cardboard huts built alongside a disused railway. Alexandru Varga settled here in the 1990s, when news of the closure of several factories in this old mining centre drew in hundreds of scrap iron scavengers. This is where I want to be buried, said Varga, 63. Several rights groups have accused local authorities in Baia Mare of violating the rights of Roma inhabitants by forcibly evicting hundreds and relocating them to an old copper-processing plant owned by Cuprom. Environmental studies showed the factory was responsible for air and soil contamination, and it was shut down a few years ago.

Roma children play outside a former chemical plant turned into a housing project in Baia Mare, on June 14. Pic : AFP This is not a viable solution, it only makes the Roma dependant on local authorities but does not solve the issue of access to education and to employment, said Gabriela Pop, head of a local Roma rights group, Together for Them. But mayor Catalin Chereches, a member of the ruling USL who won a landslide victory in the June 10 local elections, brushed aside the criticism. Moving people to Cuprom is only temporary, he told AFP. Next spring, the 1,600 Roma living in pockets of poverty in Baia Mare will all benefit from social housing, if the government agrees to finance the project, he added. He pleged that at least one member of each family will get a job, while children will go to school from September. Chereches sparked a scandal last year when he built a concrete wall separating mainly Roma apartment blocs from a main road. Romania counts up two two million Roma, most of whom are unemployed and have limited access to education and health care. Despite the relocation row, many Roma at Craica said moving to Cuprom was an opportunity to emerge from the extreme poverty they live in. When the excavator returned to the site to tear

Manhattan best deal for buyers since 2006

By Oshrat Carmiel NEW YORK Andy Queen and his wife have been renters in Manhattan since selling their home in 2006, when prices were peaking. They jumped back into the buyers market this year after their landlord sought a 16 percent monthly increase. That got my attention, said Queen, 46, a director of commercial operations for the advertising agency MRM. We quickly tried to figure out what our options are. Now is the best time in almost six years to buy in Manhattan as rents approach record highs and home prices hold steady. The price gap between leasing and buying an apartment is the narrowest its been since 2006, according to data from New York appraiser Miller Samuel Inc. Still, buying remains an expensive proposition in Manhattan, where the median price of an apartment is US$625,000 for a one-bedroom and $1.2 million for a twobedroom. In the United States, the median price of a previously owned single-family home was $158,100 in the first quarter, according to the National Association of Realtors. In Manhattan, buying was 20.8 times more expensive than the annual cost of renting, Miller Samuel data for the first quarter show. The last time the spread was smaller was at the end of 2006, when home prices were climbing and rents were swelled by demand from Manhattanites priced out of the sales market. Buying a co-op or condo then was 20.4 times the price of renting. The multiple had climbed to as high as 26.7 in the second quarter of 2008, the same time the median apartment price in Manhattan peaked, according to Miller Samuel. Its averaged 16.3 over the past 21 years. There are limits to the analysis. While its adjusted for inflation, it doesnt account for sign ificant costs such as maintenance and mortgage payments, which vary by buyer. Were just seeing a higher frequency of the decision going over to the buy side, whereas a year ago, the choice would be almost absolutely to rent, said Jonathan Miller, president of Miller Samuel. The median price of Manhattan condos and co-ops that sold in the first quarter was $775,000, a 0.9 pc decline from a year earlier, Miller Samuel and Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate reported April 3. Meanwhile, the median monthly rent jumped 7.1 percent to $3,100, or $37,200 annually. Rents are now within about 5 pc of the $3,265 peak reached at the end of 2006. Studios and one-bedroom units accounted for 56 pc of sales completed in the quarter, the highest market share of starter homes in three years, according to Miller. For homeownership to pay off in Manhattan, a buyer must meet certain hurdles, such as obtaining a mortgage, doing so near the current record-low rates, and making a substantial down payment, according to Miller. The cost of buying relative to renting remains the highest of anywhere in New York City and surrounding suburbs, according to Trulia Inc. Buying is slightly more affordable to renting than it was, but thats not enough for Manhattan to make buying a good deal, said Jed Kolko, chief economist at the San Franciscobased property-data firm, which cites Detroit and Oklahoma City as the top metropolitan areas where purchasing makes more sense. Queen and his wife, who have a 7-year-old son, decided to buy instead of pay more to rent their apartment in Murray Hill, and raced to find a two-bedroom unit with about 1,200 square feet for less than $1 million. They planned to put 40 pc down. When they ran out of time, they renewed the lease for their twobedroom apartment at $5,500 a month, a 10 pc increase. After we get through the summer season, Im going to be on top of it again, Queen said. If we find an incredible deal, I can break the lease and pay a two-month penalty. While Manhattans rents may tip the scales toward buying, qualifying for a mortgage muddies the decision for some as lenders exact ever-stricter standards, Miller said. Co-ops, which tend to be cheaper than condos and more attractive to new buyers, require average down payments of 35 pc, further limiting the pool of renters who can actually make a purchase. In co-ops with larger shares of starter units, the requirement is lower, according to Miller. For some people, the down payment is what halts the process and doesnt allow them to flip into a purchase, said Pamela Liebman, president of Corcoran Group, a New York-based brokerage. Some people are asking their parents for help. Lenders demand a minimum down payment of 20 pc of the sale price or appraised value, whichever is lower, said Debra Shultz, managing director at Manhattan Mortgage in New York. All the while, underwriters are amassing paper trails to justify loans to even the most credit-worthy borrowers. Recent clients of Shultzs were asked to explain each inquiry listed on their credit report and to submit 24 months of canceled rent checks to prove they pay on time. Its different than the last time, Shultz said. Clients havent experienced this degree of invasiveness. The rent on Anurag Sharmas one-bedroom apartment in the Financial Districts New York by Gehry building was set to increase 4.2 pc, to $3,715. The prices are at an all-time low, the interest rates are at an all-time low, so why not look into it? was Sharmas attitude, she said. The physicist, 38, asked a broker to find a home where her monthly costs, including mortgage and maintenance, wouldnt exceed $2,800 the price of a decent rental apartment in Manhattan. Last week, Sharma completed a deal for a 650-square-foot, onebedroom co-op on East 53rd Street for $395,000. After her 25 pc down payment, her monthly housing bill comes to $2,561, including the $1,170 maintenance fee. I may not make anything on it but at least Im not going to lose my shirt, she said. And I can paint it whatever the hell colour I want. Bloomberg News

Indian sadhus protest dams on Ganges

NEW DELHI Hundreds of saffronclad Indian sadhus, or holy men, protested in New Delhi June 18 against plans to construct more than 50 dams on the River Ganges whose waters are sacred to millions of Hindus. The sadhus, and environmentalists, say the dam projects which are linked to hydropower creation on the Ganges and its myriad tributaries will throttle the river at its source and threaten the natural ecosystem. Our mother river is being murdered by the government. It will dry up if all the dams are built,said Swami Mukteshwar of the Ganga Mukti Mahasangram (Battle to Save the Ganges). The dams will slow the mighty rivers flow to a trickle. Our holy water will be diverted and used to generate hydro power. This is shocking. The sadhus pledged to lay down their lives to save the Ganges as a dozen of them started a three-day hunger strike at Jantar Mantar, a common protest venue in New Delhi Dams will be built over our dead bodies. They can mix our blood in the cement, said Swami Aseemanand, 65, who has been bathing in the Ganges for over 35 years in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. Hindus believe the Ganges waters can wash away their sins and free them from the cycle of life and rebirth. The 2,525 kilometre (1,568 mile) long river flows across five states. A recent report prepared by the state-funded Wildlife Institute of India had recommended scrapping 34 of the Ganges dam projects, citing environmental concerns. AFP

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Microsoft seek to challenge iPad

By Michael Thurston LOS ANGELES Software giant Microsoft unveiled its first tablet computer, the Surface, on June 18, in a major hardware launch clearly designed to take on longterm rival Apples market-ruling iPad. Chief executive Steve Ballmer described the iPad challenger complete with a built-in stand and ultra thin covers-cum-keyboards in a range of colours as a tablet that works and plays. The Surface is a PC, the Surface is a tablet, and the Surface is something new that we think people will absolutely love, he said at an hour-long presentation in a Hollywood design studio. No prices or release dates were given, but the Surface is expected to go on sale in autumn, with retail prices competitive with a comparable ARM tablet or Intel Ultrabook-class computers, Microsoft said. There were spontaneous bursts of applause and whoops from tech journalists and bloggers as key features of the new tablet, which has a slightly bigger screen than the iPad, but in wide-screen movie-style 16:9 format. There was also one nervejangling moment for Windows Live Division chief Steven Sinofsky, when the first Surface model he was demonstrating failed to respond to a touch command. To his relief, a replacement worked immediately. It feels natural in your hands, he told the invite-only event, shrouded in secrecy reminiscent of Apple icon Steve Jobs, and held in a venue underlining cutting-edge design values, traditionally not Microsofts strong point. A version of the Surface tablet running on Windows RT software tailored for ARM mobile device chips will measure 9.3 millimetres thick and weigh 676 grams. It boasts a 10.6-inch (26.9 centimetre) high-definition screen and will be available with 32 or 64 gigabytes of memory. A model powered by Windows 8 Pro weighs 903 grams and will be available with 64 or 128 gigabytes of memory. Its a whole new community of computing devices from Microsoft, Ballmer said. It embodies the notion of hardware and software really pushing each other. The Surface features a flip-out rear kickstand to prop it up like a picture fram e and can be combined with a 3mm-thick Touch Cover that, when opened, acts as a keypad so tablets could be switched into desktop mode. There is also a 5 mm-thick Type Cover with moving keys for a more traditional typing feel. The keypad-cover attaches with a magnetic clasp familiar to iPad users, combining to feel like a book in weight and form, as confirmed when journalists were briefly given a brief chance to hold the device after the presentation. We designed this like a book. This spine feels like a book, Michael Angiulo, vice president for Windows Planning, Hardware & PC Ecosystem told the audience. Microsoft did not specify when the tablet would be available but it is likely to be timed with the release of Windows 8 software later this year. This product marks a crucial pivot in Microsofts product strategy, said Forrester analyst Sarah Rotman Epps. It puts the focus on the consumer

Mobiles surge in Asia, to overtake PCs: Google

SINGAPORE Asia-Pacific is leading a surge in the use of mobile devices as they play a more central role in peoples lives and are on track to replace conventional computers, a top Google executive said June 20. Aliza Knox, managing director of commerce for Google Asia Pacific, said smartphones and tablets were now becoming the primary means to access the Internet in the region, adding that the US firm was making preparations to respond to that. Asia has an insatiable appetite for mobile, she told a forum at the CommunicAsia telecom fair in Singapore. Four regional economies Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia and South Korea already have higher smartphone use rates than the United States, Knox said. She added that 74 percent of searches in Singapore are now done on mobile gadgets while in Indonesia 78 pc of Internet users go online with a tablet or smartphone. In Japan, a person has an average 45 apps on his or her mobile phone, with South Koreans coming next at 42 compared with 23 in the United States, according to Knox. By 2015, one in two people in the world using the Internet will be in Asia, and in the region a persons first experience online will likely be on a mobile. Asia is ahead, Asia is taking this up faster than other places, she said. AFP

Microsoft introduce their new tablet, Surface, during a press conference in Milky Studios in Hollywood, California on June 18. Pic : AFP rather than the enterprise, she effort in devices has been its Xbox continued in a blog post. And gaming console, in contrast to it lets Microsoft compete with its failed music player known as vertically-integrated Apple on Zune. Microsoft this month unveiled more even ground. Microsoft, which built its a SmartGlass application that fortune by specializing in software developers can use to synch iPads and leaving the job of making or other tablet computers to Xbox computers or other devices to 360 consoles. Zune handheld digital media partners, has had mixed results players were released in late from its hardware ventures. The Redmond, Washington- 2006 in a Microsoft challenge to based technology colossus has Apples culture-changing iPod stamped its brand on personal devices. Microsoft discontinued Zune computer keyboards, headsets, speakers, webcams and mouse h a r d w a r e l a s t y e a r . B u t i t continues to operate its Zune controllers. Microsoft has occasionally service offering online music, weighed in with more significant films and other entertainment hardware when it appeared that content, weaving it into the rivals were running away with offerings available on Internetlinked Xbox 360 videogame the market. The companys most successful consoles. AFP

Vietnam entrepreneurs find fertile ground online

By Tran Thi Minh Ha HANOI Vietnams young, tech-savvy population is turning to the Internet to break out of an economic system stifled by decades of communist rule, leading to a boom in e-commerce. Internet entrepreneur Thao Phuong earns twice as much money each month selling tropical fruit online to Hanoi housewives as she does from her day job working at a local post office. The 28-year-old buys fruit such as pomelo, oranges and durian direct from farmers, markets it in Vietnameselanguage online forums, and delivers orders herself on her motorbike when she has clocked off a shift sorting mail. Its fun and has become a major source of income for me, she said, adding that she earns up to seven million dong (US$330) a month online twice as much as her monthly salary from her day job. In communist Vietnam, setting up a business is a cumbersome process involving much bureaucratic red tape. As a result, the country has a huge informal economy, which by some estimates accounts for more than half of all economic activity. Over the past few years, hundreds of small online businesses, often run by civil servants or office workers in their spare time, have sprung up which are not officially registered or licensed, avoiding red tape and fees. Vietnam is fertile land for online trading to develop, said Nguyen Tam Khoi, CEO of small Hanoi-based Da Phuc company, which produces anti-fire doors. A young population and a world-leading Internet development rate are shining signals for the development of e-trade in the country, Khoi said, adding that social media growth was particularly striking in Vietnam. After a string of food scandals including the discovery of formaldehyde in the national dish, pho noodle soup Vietnamese consumers are wary and prefer to buy products from trusted sources. Cashing in on this, many small businesses like Phuongs fruit company are using Vietnamese-language social networks and online forums to market their wares and reach out to customers, usually starting with friends and family. E-trade in Vietnam now mainly counts on the personal trust between sellers and buyers, Phuong said. There has been no guarantee for clients on the products they buy. Everything depends on the conscience of the seller, she said. Despite hitches such as a lack of capacity for online payments, with most businesses only taking cash on delivery, the sector is growing. Vietnams top four Groupon-style coupon websites recorded hundreds of thousands of transactions and a total turnover of up to 670 billion dong ($31 million). There are no official statistics on how much e-trade more generally contributes to the economy but consultancy group McKinsey said in January the nascent industry accounted for a modest 0.9 percent of GDP. The average Vietnamese online shopper spends just $13 a month a combined total of three billion dollars per year below regional neighbours such as Malaysia ($16) and Taiwan ($26). E-commerce in Vietnam is an untapped market with high potential to grow, the report said. For many Hanoi residents like Nguyen Thu Huong, 34, an office worker and mother of two, the rise of online businesses made life easier for everyone. With just an Internetconnected laptop, I can now have everything for my family dinner without having to go to the market. I buy rice, seafood, meat, fruit and even fish sauce online, she said. As more people like Huong get online internet penetration is only 34 pc but rising fast, especially in urban areas online consumption could really take off in Vietnam, officials say. The trend may bring about stunning results, said an official from the Ministry of Industry and Trade. However, in order for e-trade to really benefit the official GDP figures, it needs to move from the informal to the mainstream economy, she warned. There are so many things to improve though, as e-trade in Vietnam is still developing at a very unprofessional manner, she said on condition of anonymity as she is not authorised to talk to the press. AFP

Thao Phuong, 28, IT engineer and an employee of Hanoi Posts Company works next to her laptop as a part-time e-trader selling fruit in Hanoi on May 10. Pic : AFP

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Rio+20 shows UN impotence on environment
RIO DE JANEIRO The outcome of the Rio+20 summit provides further proof that the nation-state system is failing badly in tackling global environmental threats, say analysts. The UNs Conference on Sustainable Development had been billed as a oncein-a-generation chance to overhaul an economic model that had left a billion people in poverty and imperiled the biosphere. But veteran observers who watched the 10-day event drag to a close on June 22 shook their heads in dismay. To them, it was a fresh failure by the United Nations system, after the near-disastrous 2009 Copenhagen climate summit, to respond to eco-perils that are now approaching at express speed. Its a demonstration of political impotence, of system paralysis, and it makes me feel pessimistic about the systems ability to deliver, Laurence Tubiana, director of a French think-tank, the Institute for Sustainable Development and International Relations (IDDRI), said in an interview. The multilateral process today is not delivering the urgent action we need, WWFs Jim Leape said in an email. International action is in fact important, to galvanise a global response to these challenges, but its clear that we need to look to leadership in other places ... that means looking for changes everywhere communities, cities, national governments and companies. After a three-day summit of 189 nation-states, the conference issued a 53-page declaration with the horizonsweeping title The Future We Want. It itemised a distressingly long list of problems from global warming, deforestation and fisheries collapse to water stress, pollution and biodiversity loss that scientists fear could turn into a mass extinction. But long months of textual trench warfare, as nations defended their own interests, meant radical proposals were either watered down or got the chop. They included a commitment to phase out subsidies for fossil fuels and demands for up to US$30 billion a year to help poor countries grow in a sustainable way. Connie Hedegaard, the European commissioner for climate change, admitted that to the normal citizen, it [the outcome] doesnt sound a lot. Observers said the most tangible success was a plan for Sustainable Development Goals to succeed the UNs Millennium Development Goals, which touch on health, poverty and so on, after they expire in 2015. Jeffrey Sachs, director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University in New York, said the MDGs had been an important catalyser but for ordinary citizens, not leaders. They have been a global call to action that has mobilised millions of people around the world, as well as informed, nudged or pushed governments to take seriously the challenges of poverty, hunger and disease. They thus teach us a lesson: we cannot rely on the politicians and the diplomats to get this job done. After Copenhagen, some critics said the UN system was genetically incapable of coping with a global environment crisis. Solutions demand sacrifice by all nations, which gives any dissenter the chance to sabotage or weaken a radical deal. But Steve Sawyer, a former Greenpeace campaigner who is now secretary general of a Brussels clean-energy lobby, the Global Wind Energy Council, said the UN still offered hope. The UN system has lost its way, crippled by the format determined by the victors of World War II, he argued. For all its warts, its what we have, and there is no alternative. To deal with global problems, we need a global framework, and to make that work we need the big powers to drive it and not fight against it. So were hoping that the Chinas, Indias, Brazils, Germanys and Japans will take up some of the slack. AFP By Samer al-Atrush CAIRO Egypt last week braced for a showdown between the military and the Muslim Brotherhood as the electoral commission delayed announcing the winner of a presidential poll claimed by the Islamists. A delay in the run-off results, which had been due on June 21, heightened fears of a soft coup by the ruling military, which has already disbanded the Islamist-led parliament and granted itself sweeping powers. A senior Brotherhood official warned the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) that it risked a confrontation with the people if Hosni Mubaraks last premier, Ahmed Shafiq, were declared the winner over Mohamed Morsi. Another Brotherhood leader, Khairat El-Shater, said Islamist supporters would rally peacefully if Shafiq were declared winner, because the Brotherhood had evidence that Morsi won, the groups website reported. Returning officers handed stamped results to representatives of the rival candidates after completing their tallies, which Morsis campaign has made public. But only the electoral commission can declare the official result. The commission argued it needed to review fraud allegations from both candidates that might affect

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troubling, said Clinton, whose government gives Egypt more than US$1 billion a year, mostly in military aid. The generals say they have no intention of remaining in power after a civilian president takes office for the first time since the February 11, 2011 overthrow of Mubarak. The ousted strongman is in a coma in a military hospital after suffering a stroke that prompted his transfer from a Cairo prison where he was serving a life sentence, military and medical sources said. A medical source speaking on condition of anonymity however said that the 84year-olds condition had improved slightly but did not elaborate. This is a constitutional coup, said Brotherhood member Abdel Rahman alSaoudi, a protester camped out in Tahrir on Thursday, adding that he would not leave the square until Morsis inauguration. The protesters are also demanding that the military repeal an updated interim constitution that allows it to assume parliaments powers and gives it a say in drafting Egypts next constitution. We insist on remaining in the square until we achieve the goals of the revolution and the demands of [the rally] confronting the military coup against legitimacy, the FJP website quoted senior party official Essam al-Erian as saying. AFP

A supporter of the Muslim Brotherhood presidential candidate Mohamed Morsi wear stickers on his face reading in Arabic Mohamed Morsi is a president for Egypt as thousands of Morsi supporters attend a rally in Cairos Tahrir Square on June 21. Pic: AFP the outcome of the June 1617 runoff. Shafiqs campaign team, which insists he won despite the Brotherhood claims of victory within hours of polls closing, accuses the Morsi camp of printing almost a million false ballots, the state-owned Al-Ahram newspaper reported. Morsis campaign denies the allegation and accuses Shafiqs team of bribing voters. On June 21, Shafiq told a press briefing: I am confident, based on the data and indications we have in hand, that I will be the future president. The newspaper of the Brotherhoods Freedom and Justice Party (FJP) ran a large red banner on its June 21 edition saying Sit-in above an announcement of an open-ended protest until Morsi is sworn in. The military has pledged to transfer power to the winner by the end of the month, but Brotherhood members who set up tents in Cairos Tahrir Square, the hub of protests that overthrew Mubarak last year, say they are not convinced. They cite the militarys assumption of legislative powers after a court ordered parliament dissolved, and decrees giving the army powers of arrest and a broad say in government policy. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said on June 20 it was imperative that the military follow through on its promise of a swift handover to civilian rule. Some of the actions by the military leadership in recent days were clearly

Syria fighter pilot defects in blow to Assad

DAMASCUS A Syrian air force colonel won political asylum after landing his MiG fighter in Jordan on June 21, as a watchdog reported the deadliest day of fighting in Syria since the battered April ceasefire. The pilot, who reportedly flew his jet under the radar to safely cross the border, was the first to defect from one of the most privileged branches of Syrias security forces. It came as human rights monitors reported that at least 168 people had died in clashes inside Syria on June 21, one of the bloodiest days since the uprising began in March 2011. The council of ministers has decided to grant the pilot, Colonel Hassan Merei al-Hamade, political asylum, said Jordanian Information Minister Samih Maaytah. The opposition Syrian National Council said that the plane took off at high speed and flew at low altitude from a military base between Daraa and Sweida in the south of the country to avoid detection by radar. The pilot is from Deir Ezzor, in eastern Syria, and his family is known for its opposition to the regime of President Bashar al- Assad, spokesman George Sabra said. The Syrian defence ministry denounced Hamade in a statement on state television as a deserter and a traitor to his country, and to his military honour, and said that he will be sanctioned under military rules. Syria has made contact with Jordan to arrange for the return of the jet, the statement added. Washington welcomed the defection. This is how these things start, said State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said. It is obviously a significant moment when a guy takes a US$25 million plane and flies it to another country. Tens of thousands of soldiers have defected since the revolt against Assads rule erupted in March last year, with thousands joining the rebel Free Syrian Army, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The air force had previously been seen as a loyal arm of the regime. Assads father Hafez headed the service before seizing power in 1970, and air force intelligence remains one of the most feared branches of the security services. Diplomats, meanwhile, stepped up their efforts to stem the bloodshed. Arab states called for Russia to stop arming Syria. Any assistance to violence must be ceased because when you supply military equipment, you help kill people. This must stop, Arab League deputy chief Ahmed Ben Hilli told the Interfax news agency. He also called for the mandate of UN and Arab League envoy Kofi Annan to be revamped, and for Irans inclusion in talks on ending the conflict. UN chief Ban Ki-moon discussed the situation in Syria on June 21 with Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on the sidelines of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development in Rio, said a spokesman for Ban. Iran is one of the Assad regimes last allies. In comments to reporters later, Ahmadinejad denounced Western interference in Syria, accusing them of pursuing their own interests. For this domination, they are setting people against each other. They are responsible for the deaths in the civilian population in Syria, he said. Both London and Washington denied a report in British newspaper The Guardian that they were working on an initiative for regime change based on Annans UN-backed plan that calls for a Syrian-led political transition. Reports said Britain and the United States have discussed offering Assad immunity from prosecution if he steps down as part of a political transition. But Britains Foreign Office said no new offer was on the table, and at the State Department Nuland also said there was no truth to the story. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, whose government retains close ties with Damascus, said any peace plan that calls for Assad to leave power and go into exile would not work because he would not quit. AFP

Brazilian natives arrive at RioCentro for the handing over of the Kari-Oca II Declaration to leaders attending the UN climate summit on June 21. Pic: AFP

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Iran, world powers stuck in nuclear impasse: analysts

By Stuart Williams MOSCOW Talks between world powers and Iran to defuse the Iranian nuclear crisis face a tough future after the sides failed to edge any closer to a breakthrough at a crunch meeting in Moscow, analysts said. Negotiators from the six world powers and their Iranian counterparts managed at the Moscow talks to prevent the diplomatic process from complete collapse by agreeing a new meeting at expert-level in Istanbul on July 3. But with Iran defying Western demands to scale down its sensitive uranium enrichment activities and the West showing no sign of lifting sanctions, it is unclear how much room for manoeuvre is left for the new talks. The Moscow round came at a critical moment in the decade-long nuclear crisis, with Tehran about to face potentially crippling EU and US sanctions against its oil sector and the option of military action still on the table. Some narrowing may have occurred, but going forward talks will take place against the background of a new round of escalation and counter escalation as a result of the ramping up of new sanctions, said Trita Parsi, president of the National Iranian American Council. That will further render an agreement difficult, said Parsi, author of the book A Single Roll of the Dice on American diplomacy with Iran. The world powers known as P5+1 permanent UN Security Council members Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States, plus Germany failed to win any concession from Iran that would give the talks a new impulse. They want Iran to stop enriching uranium to 20 percent purity a level close to that needed to make the core of a nuclear bomb and to shut down its heavily fortified underground Fordo enrichment plant. Iran insists it needs to enrich uranium to produce nuclear fuel for an atomic energy programme and for medical purposes, but the West suspects Teheran secretly wants to become a nuclear weapons power. Western officials admitted the two-day Moscow talks, led by chief Iranian negotiator Saeed Jalili and EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, had been bruising. We went round and round for quite a while, said a senior US administration official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Western powers have refused to concede to Iranian demands to scrap US and EU sanctions targeting its oil export sector that are due to come into force on June 28 and July 1 respectively. The crucial sanctionslifting bit is missing and some Western states

Chief Iranian nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili (second left) takes part in the talks on the controversial Iranian nuclear program in Moscow on June 19. wont agree to do that unless Iran moves first, commented Mark Hibbs of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. But Iran isnt willing to do that, so there is no movement. The only firm outcome of the talks was the agreement for the lower-level meeting in Istanbul. This would be followed by a meeting between Ashton and Jalilis deputies and then the top envoys themselves. But no dates were set. Even the timing of the July 3 meeting was contentious as it coincides with the anniversary of the accidental 1988 shooting down of an Iranian civilian airliner by a US naval ship. Delegates said that the world powers initially proposed July 2 for the new talks, irritating the Iranians who mark the tragedy on that day according to the Persian calendar. The continuation of that talks on the experts level will not solve the issue, said Mohammad Saleh Sedghian of the Tehran-based Arabic Centre for Iranian Studies. If the talks continue at the current level or lower, as was decided, we should be looking at a marathon of talks with no end. But it also appears the Irans foes are already using other methods, away from negotiation. Iran was recently hit by a massive cyberattack by a malware known as Flame able to steal documents, according to industry experts. Sedghian said the West was for the moment happy to pressure Iran with the sanctions and cyberwarfare since it is much cheaper that military option which will burden the US, Israel and the Western allies. AFP

US, Israel developed virus to slow Iranian nuclear efforts

By Ellen Nakashima, Greg Miller and Julie Tate WASHINGTON The United States and Israel jointly developed a sophisticated computer virus nicknamed Flame that collected critical intelligence in preparation for cyber-sabotage attacks aimed at slowing Irans ability to develop a nuclear weapon, according to Western officials with knowledge of the effort. The massive piece of malware was designed to secretly map Irans computer networks and monitor the computers of Iranian officials, sending back a steady stream of intelligence used to enable an ongoing cyberwarfare campaign, according to the officials. The effort, involving the National Security Agency (NSA), the CIA and Israels military, has included the use of destructive software such as the so-called Stuxnet virus to cause malfunctions in Irans nuclear enrichment equipment. The emerging details about Flame provide new clues about what is believed to be the first sustained campaign of cybersabotage against an adversary of the US. This is about preparing the battlefield for another type of covert action, said one former high-ranking US intelligence official, who added that Flame and Stuxnet were elements of a broader assault that continues today. Flame came to light last month after Iran detected a series of cyberattacks on its oil industry. The disruption was directed by Israel in a unilateral operation that apparently caught its US partners off guard, according to several US and Western officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity. There had been speculation that Operations Centre is second only the US had a role in developing such as those working at NSA. Flame was developed at least to the CIAs Counterterrorism Flame, but the collaboration on the virus between Washington five years ago as part of a classified Centre in size. The IOC, as it and Israel has not been previously effort code-named Olympic Games, is known, performs an array of according to officials familiar with espionage functions, including confirmed. Commercial security researchers US cyber operations and experts extracting data from laptops seized in counterterrorism raids. earlier this month reported that who have scrutinised its code. But the centre specialises in The US-Israeli collaboration was Flame contained some of the same code as Stuxnet. Experts described intended to slow Irans nuclear computer penetrations that require the overlap as DNA-like evidence program, reduce the pressure for closer contact with the target, that the two sets of malware were a conventional military attack and such as using spies or unwitting parallel projects run by the same extend the timetable for diplomacy contractors to spread a contagion on a thumb drive. and sanctions. entity. Both agencies analyse the The best-known cyberweapon The virus is among the most sophisticated and subversive pieces set loose on Iran was Stuxnet, a intelligence obtained through name coined by researchers in the malware such as Flame, and have of malware exposed to date. Experts said the program was antivirus industry who discovered continued to develop new weapons even as recent attacks have been designed to replicate across even the virus two years ago. It infected a specific type of exposed. highly secure networks, then control Flames discovery shows the everyday computer functions to industrial controller at Irans send a flow of secrets back to uranium enrichment plant in important role of mapping networks and collecting its creators. intelligence The code on targets as could activate c o m p u t e r The collaboration was intended to slow Irans t h e p r e l u d e to an attack, microphones nuclear program, reduce the pressure for a e s p e c i a l l y i n and cameras, log keyboard conventional military attack and extend the closedwcomputer. net orks s t r o k e s , take Officials say computer screen timetable for diplomacy and sanctions. gaining and shots, extract keeping access geolocation data to a network is from images and send and receive commands and Natanz, causing almost 1000 99 percent of the challenge. It is far more difficult to data through Bluetooth wireless centrifuges to spin out of control. The damage occurred gradually, penetrate a network, learn about technology. Flame was designed to do all this over months, and Iranian officials it, reside on it forever and extract while masquerading as a routine initially thought it was the result information from it without being detected than it is to go in and Microsoft software update, evading of incompetence. To develop these tools, the stomp around inside the network detection for several years by using a sophisticated program to crack an US relies on two of its elite spy causing damage, said Michael agencies. The NSA, known mainly Hayden, a former NSA director encryption algorithm. This is not something that for its electronic eavesdropping and CIA director who left office most security researchers have and code-breaking capabilities, has in 2009. He declined to discuss any the skills or resources to do, said extensive expertise in developing Tom Parker, chief technology malicious code that can be aimed operations he was involved with officer for Fusion X, a security firm at US adversaries, including Iran. during his time in government. The effort to delay Irans nuclear specialising in simulating state- The CIA lacks the NSAs level of sponsored cyberattacks, who does sophistication in building malware, program using cyber-techniques not know who was behind the virus. but is deeply involved in the cyber began in the mid-2000s, when President George W Bush was in Youd expect that of only the most campaign. The agencys Information his second term. advanced cryptomathematicians, At that point it consisted mainly of intelligence gathering to identify potential targets and develop tools to disrupt them. In 2008, the program went operational and shifted from military to CIA control, former officials said. Despite their collaboration on developing the malicious code, the US and Israel have not always coordinated attacks. Israels April assaults on Irans Oil Ministry and oil export facilities caused only minor disruptions. The episode led Iran to investigate and ultimately discover Flame. The virus penetrated some fields one of them was the oil sector, Gholam Reza Jalali, an Iranian military cyber official, told Iranian state radio in May. Fortunately, we detected and controlled this single incident. Some US intelligence officials were dismayed that Israels unilateral incursion led to the discovery of the virus, prompting countermeasures. The disruptions led Iran to ask a Russian security firm and a Hungarian cyber lab for help, according to US and international officials familiar with the incident. Two weeks ago, researchers with the Kaspersky Labs, the Russian security firm, reported their conclusion that Flame was created by the same group or groups that built Stuxnet. We are now 100 percent sure that the Stuxnet and Flame groups worked together, said Roel Schouwenberg, a Boston-based senior researcher with Kaspersky Labs. Kaspersky also determined that the Flame malware predates Stuxnet. It looks like the Flame platform was used as a kickstarter of sorts to get the Stuxnet project going, Schouwenberg said. The Washington Post

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The five judges are expected to announce their verdict on either July 20 or August 24. Laying out the prosecutions arguments, Holden said he would rather err on the side of caution, stressing it was worse to sentence someone who is psychotic to prison than to send someone who is not psychotic to psychiatric care. We are not convinced or sure that Breivik is criminally insane, but we are in doubt, Holden said. Psychiatric evaluations of Breiviks mental health have sharply contradicted each other. But Holden and his colleague Inga Bejer Engh followed the line presented by a first court-ordered assessment, which found Breivik to be suffering from paranoid schizophrenia. Breivik, who has been charged with acts of terror, has told the court what he did was cruel but necessary to protect Norway from a wave of multiculturalism and a Muslim invasion. A majority of psychiatric experts who have observed Breivik in detention and in court have agreed he is not suffering from a psychosis, but rather some form of personality disorder -- which would mean he could be sentenced to prison. AFP

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Breivik prosecutors want insanity verdict

OSLO Anders Behring Breivik, who killed 77 people in Norway last July, should be locked up in a psychiatric ward instead of prison, the prosecution said on June 21, arguing his sanity had not been proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Our request is that he be obliged to undergo psychiatric treatment in a closed unit, prosecutor Svein Holden said, wrapping up the prosecutions three-hour closing arguments on the next-to-last day of the trial. He added though that if the Oslo district courts five judges instead opted to find Breivik criminally sane, they should sentence him to Norways harshest penalty: 21 years in prison, but with the possibility to extend the sentence for as long as he is considered a danger to society. In defiance of Holden, the 33-year-old rightwing extremist stood up and touched a clenched right fist to his chest before stretching his arm out in a nationalist salute he had made on the first days of his trial in April but had stopped doing at the request of his lawyers. Breivik is intent on being found sane to ensure his Islamophobic ideology is not written off as a crazy rant.

Life in Ecuador better than prison: Assange

By Martin Parry SYDNEY WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on June 22 said he was holed up in Ecuadors embassy in London to draw attention to an alleged US extradition plot and because Australia had abandoned him. Australian Assange, 40, sought asylum at the Ecuadorian mission on June 19 in a dramatic bid to avoid extradition to Sweden over allegations of rape and sexual assault. We hope that what I am doing now will simply draw attention to the underlying issues, he told ABC radio in an exclusive interview. Assange expressed fears that the ultimate aim is for him to be handed over to US authorities, which he claims want to try him for divulging American secrets. Australia has denied any knowledge of US extradition plans but in his first comments since entering the embassy, Assange accused officials of slimy rhetoric. At the moment the matter is before the Grand Jury. Until it comes out of the Grand Jury there will be no such evidence afforded, he said, insisting that criminal proceedings that could lead to his extradition were afoot. The [US] Department of Justice is not able to formally confirm or deny the existence of the Grand Jury. It is a policy with all grand juries. There [are] witnesses who have come out on public Ecuadorian embassy ahead of his home countrys because he felt Canberra had done nothing to protect him, a charge the government has denied. There is not a single matter of concern under which the Australian government would ask other governments to be reasonable or just in this case, he said. This has been an effective declaration of abandonment. be held there. The Swedes announced publicly that they would detain me, in prison, without charge while they continued their so-called investigation, he said. We had heard that the Ecuadorians were sympathetic in relation to my struggles and the struggles of the organisation with the United States, and the ability to exercise that option was at an effective end. Life in Ecuador, I mean they are a friendly, generous people, is much better than a life behind bars. Ecuador President Rafael Correa, who has often been at odds with Washington, said his government was studying Assanges claim that he could end up in the United States on political grounds and possibly be sentenced to death. Ecuador is a country which defends the right to life. We have to see whether there is a threat to Julian Assanges life, he said on the sidelines of the Rio+20 summit on sustainable development on June 21. AFP

is country which Ecuador thea right to life. defends

record about how theyve been dragged into the Grand Jury. We have received subpoenas. This is a hot, ongoing, active investigation. WikiLeaks enraged Washington by releasing a flood of classified US information about the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as more than 250,000 classified US diplomatic cables that embarrassed a series of governments. Assange said he chose the Canberra has said he has been given full consular access, but Assange disputed this. These are empty words. I havent met with anyone from the Australian High Commission since December 2010. What are they talking about? he said. Assange has denied the sexual assault claims and added he was not prepared to go to Sweden under the terms he believed he would

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At G-20 summit, Calderon popular with global leaders

By Eric Martin and Nacha Cattan LOS CABOS, Mexico Mexican President Felipe Calderon won praise from world leaders as host of last weeks Group of 20 summit. Its probably not enough to get his partys candidate elected next week. Calderon has touted the summit that wrapped up on June 20 in the beach resort of Los Cabos as the biggest and most important heads of state gathering in his nations history. Businessmen and politicians at the gathering have heaped praise on his administration for its role on everything from attracting foreign manufacturers who helped boost exports to a record to expanding health care coverage. Still, one of his top priorities, subduing violent drug cartels, remains unfulfilled. Voters list that battle, which has left more than 47,000 dead since Calderon took office in 2006, and sluggish job growth as their top concerns ahead of the July 1 presidential vote. Polls show Calderons former education minister, Josefina Vazquez Mota, looks set to finish third in the race as the once-dominant Institutional Revolutionary Party, or PRI, is favoured to return to power. Im sure Mexicans are proud that theyre hosting the G-20, but theyre looking at domestic concerns, Robert Pastor, a national security adviser for Latin America during the presidency of Jimmy Carter and a professor at Washingtons American University, said. His anti-drug strategy didnt work, and they want an alternative. Calderon, 49, was praised early and often at the first G-20 summit to be held in Latin America. Margaret Chan, the director general of the Geneva-based World Health Organisation, said the president had accomplished more for health care during his term than was achieved in the previous century in Mexico. Ive been following your presidency, and it is amazing, Chan, seated beside Calderon, told delegates in a pre-summit panel on June 16. You see very few presidents these days that walk their talk. You gave your promise to the Mexicans that you would, in your term, introduce universal health coverage, and then delivered, she said. World Bank President Robert Zoellick thanked Calderon for his commitment to multilateralism, highlighting his hosting of United Nations climate talks in 2010. Marcus Wallenberg, chairman of Swedish plane maker Saab AB, said Calderons legacy would be a positive investment climate marked by a commitment to free trade and minimal government interference in the economy. Its very appropriate, as you close out your term, that youre also trying to do this on the international economic stage, Zoellick said. Such praise may be falling on deaf ears among Mexicans, who look set to boot Calderons National Action Party from power for the first time since Vicente Foxs election in 2000 ended seven decades of one-party rule by the PRI. Enrique Pena Nieto, the former PRI governor of Mexico state whos campaigned on a promise to boost economic growth and lead a less deadly war against the drug gangs, had 37.8 percent support, ahead of Vazquez Motas 21.6pc, in a poll published June 14 by Mexico City-based pollster Consulta Mitofsky. The capitals former mayor, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, had 24pc backing in the survey of 1000 people, which had a 3.1 percentage point margin of error. Calderon, in speeches to delegates, touted his own economic achievements. Those include attracting investment from Nissan Motor Co and Mazda Motor Corp that he said will allow Mexico this year to surpass the US and become the worlds fourth largest car exporter from ninth place when he took office. Even as the US economic recovery stalls, Calderons government is forecasting growth this year of 3.5pc and expects exports to surpass a 2011 record of US$350 billion. The US buys 80pc of Mexicos shipments abroad. In a sign of Mexicos growing clout, Calderon on June 19 promised to contribute $10 billion in new resources for the International Monetary Fund, matching pledges by Russia and India, as well as Brazil, which has an economy twice its size. In advance of the summit, Calderon ordered built the worlds largest pollution-trapping green wall in Los Caboss new convention centre, to emphasize his governments G-20 agenda for sustainable development. To European leaders who are struggling to quell a debt crisis now in its third year, he offered Mexico experience stabilizing its own economy in the 1980s and 1990s as a model. Even though European leaders have said that they did not come to the summit to learn a lesson, they should open their ears to the suggestions of the extensively trained managers of the crises from the past, Alfredo Coutino, Latin America director at Moodys Analytics in West Chester, Pennsylvania, wrote in a report on June 20. If Latin America did it, Asia did it, why cant Europe overcome its economic woes? Alejandro Hernandez, chief executive officer of Operadora Cinepolis, a movie theatre operator, cautioned that Mexicans shouldnt take Calderons achievements for granted. Theres a natural erosion for any party that has been in power for 12 years, he said. People sometimes take as a given how things are and quickly forget how things were a few years ago. Bloomberg News US Attorney General Eric Holder talks to reporters after meeting with House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairman Darrell Issa in Washington, DC on June 19. Pic: AFP

House panel finds Holder in contempt

By Michael Mathes WASHINGTON A US House panel voted on June 20 to hold Attorney General Eric Holder in contempt of Congress, sharpening a political row between the White House and Republican foes less than five months before the election. Holder was cited for failure to turn over Justice Department documents tied to a probe into the failed Fast and Furious gunrunning program, even as President Barack Obama intervened with an 11 thhour assertion of executive privilege to withhold some of the documents. After four hours of tense deliberations the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee voted along straight party lines, 23-17, to censure Holder and send the report to the floor of the House of Representatives for what would be a historic contempt vote. This was not the outcome I had hoped for, and todays proceeding would not have occurred had Attorney General Eric Holder actually produced the subpoenaed documents he said he could provide, Issa said in a statement after the meeting. I still believe that a settlement, rendering the process of contempt unnecessary, is in the best interest of the Justice Department, Congress and those most directly affected by Operation Fast and Furious, he added. House Speaker John Boehner announced that the full chamber will vote on the contempt resolution this week should Holder not provide the documents, a move ranking committee Democrat Elijah Cummings labelled extreme. The contempt claim focuses on the botched program that saw guns knowingly smuggled across the border to Mexico in order to track arms flows. Issa has sought to obtain communications which he says may shed light on when Holder first knew of the gun-running operation and whether there was a cover-up about it. Holder, who was not at the deliberations, said Issa rejected all [Justice Department] efforts to reach a reasonable accommodation. The rationale for Obamas first use of executive privilege was laid out in a letter by Deputy Attorney General James Cole to Issa. Cole stressed that the forced production of these internal executive branch documents generated in the course of the deliberative process would have significant, damaging consequences. Holder himself wrote Obama to argue that such a release would inhibit the candor of such executive branch deliberations in the future and significantly impair the executive branchs ability to respond independently and effectively to congressional oversight. Holder met on June 19 with Issa and Cummings, and offered to provide a briefing on the matter and assurances that further documents would be provided. The offer was rejected by Issa who had demanded the documents be handed over before the deliberations. Our work is not complete, and we need the Department of Justice to cooperate, Issa said in his opening remarks. Thus far the cooperation has not been forthcoming. Issa, criticised by Democrats for waging a year-long witch hunt against Holder, insisted our purpose has never been to hold the attorney general in contempt, but merely to get the information the committee needs to complete its work. The department has provided the panel with 7600 pages of documents, and Holder has answered congressional questions about Fast and Furious at nine hearings. From 2009 to 2010, US agents knowingly allowed drug cartels to illegally purchase about 2000 assault weapons and then sought to trace those guns across the border into Mexico. Most of the weapons were never traced, but two were found at the scene of the murder of US Border Patrol agent Brian Terry, which led to the programs suspension. AFP

Trade Mark CauTion

NOTICE is hereby given that oni GLoBaL PTe. LTd a company organized and existing under the laws of Singapore and having its principal office at 65 Ubi Avenue 1, OSIM Headquarters, Singapore 408939 is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark:-

LaC iV/2152/2012) TauT (reg: no.

in respect of:- Non-medicated skin care preparations; nonmedicated creams for the skin and body; non-medicated skin products; non-medicated body care preparations; skin renewal creams, skin repair creams, lotions and gels and skin firming preparations; beauty creams; non-medicated sun care preparations; non-medicated toiletries; nonmedicated sun blocking preparations; non-medicated skin cleansing preparations; beauty care preparations; beauty, cosmetics and cleansing masks; cosmetics; cosmetic preparations; cosmetic preparations for skin care; collagen preparations for cosmetic application; cosmetic moisturizers; cosmetic oils; skin care creams; skin care lotions; skin care oils; anti-ageing creams, anti-cellulite preparations, anti-wrinkle cream; facial masks; eye masks; cosmetic serums (non-medicated) ; essences for skin care; moisturising concentrates [cosmetic]; skin firming preparations; eye cream, lotions and gels Int l Class: 3 Medicine for human use, traditional Chinese herbal preparations for medical purposes, Chinese medicinal and other tonic preparations; Chinese proprietary medicines; ginseng; traditional Chinese medicine; Chinese patent medicines; herbal beverages and compounds for medicinal use; herbal extracts and infusions for medicinal purposes; pharmaceutical, healthcare products [medicinal] and dietetic preparations [medicinal]; dietetic substances

adapted for medical use; cordyceps for medical purposes; medicinal health drinks containing cordyceps and lingzhi; health food supplements and health food containing lingzhi and cordyceps adapted for medical use; mineral food supplements, mineral dietary supplements for humans adapted for medical use, vitamins, vitamin preparations, vitamin supplements, vitamin tablets, health food supplements, food and dietary supplements adapted for medical use, nutritional supplements; collagen based medicated supplements for food; preparations containing collagen [medical]; royal jelly (for medical purposes); dietary supplements principally of royal jelly (for medical use); natural healthcare preparations (medicaments) Intl Class: 5 Non-alcoholic drinks; aerated water; beverages consisting of a blend of fruit and vegetable juices; other preparations for making beverages; beverages containing added trace elements; beverages enriched with added minerals; vitamin enriched non-alcoholic beverages [vitamins not predominating]; beverages (non-alcoholic) containing cordyceps and fungi, not for medical purposes; mixed plant drinks; drinks flavoured with herbs; syrups and other preparations for making beverages; soda water; fruit extracts (non-alcoholic); isotonic beverages; collagen drink (non-alcoholic) not for medical purposes; herbal beverages (other than for medicinal use) Intl Class: 32 Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademark or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for oni Global Pte. Ltd P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 25th June, 2012

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Syrian Kurds find refuge in Iraqi Kurdistan

By W G Dunlop DOMIZ CAMP, Iraq Syrian Kurds of all persuasions, from soldiers who did not want to kill their own countrymen to those seeking to escape the violence, have found refuge across the border in Kurdistan in north Iraq. Most had to be smuggled across the border, avoiding Syrian security forces, after facing what they said was discrimination and oppression in Syria. But they say they have been welcomed by Iraqs autonomous Kurdistan region, which hosts the Domiz refugee camp in Dohuk province, where some 1500 of them are now housed. Abu Samir, a 56-year-old from Qamishli in northeast Syria, left his hometown for Iraqi Kurdistan in order to protect his son, a soldier who had deserted from the Syrian army. Either he kills women, boys and children or he himself would be killed, Abu Samir said. He did not kill and he escaped. Abu Samir then had a choice: Either I hand him over to authorities and they kill him in front of me, or we escape together. He chose the latter option, travelling by vehicle with seven other family members until they were near the border, then sneaking past guards to cross by night. The Kurdistan region welcomed us and we are grateful, Abu Samir said. Because I am Kurdish, I preferred the Kurdistan region and I am comfortable here, he said. I do not consider myself a refugee. I feel that I am among my family here, I do not feel I am a stranger. The situation of Kurds in Syria is desperate and there is racism, he said. Kurds are mainly spread across four countries Turkey, Syria, Iraq and Iran. While Iraqs Kurdistan region is autonomous, there is no independent Kurdish state. Abu Samir and his family now live in the Domiz camp, with its dirt roads and long lines of dusty tents set up on concrete pads. It is home to some 1500 Syrians who have sought shelter in Kurdistan, according to Claire Bourgeois, Iraq representative of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). The number of people there now looks set to rise, at least temporarily, with Bourgeois saying a new Kurdistan government policy requires Syrian refugees elsewhere in the region to move to Domiz. Mohammed Abdullah Hammo, a refugee official from the Kurdistan interior ministry, said the regional government wants all the refugees to be registered in Dohuk, although they could later live elsewhere. The United Nations says that more than 86,000 Syrians have fled to surrounding countries to escape a brutal crackdown by President Bashar al-Assads regime on an uprising against his rule, although only around 5,400 have ended up in Iraq. International organisations such as the UNHCR, the International Organisation

A Syrian-Kurdish woman sits in a tent with her baby at Domiz refugee camp, 20 kilometres southeast of Dohuk city, Iraq, on June 8. Pic: AFP/Safin Hamed for Migration, local NGOs and the Kurdistan government are assisting the refugees in Domiz, most of whom are Syrian Kurds. Kurdistan currently provides electricity and food for the camp, though the World Food Program will provide aid from next month, Bourgeois said. Some areas of the camp are strewn with rubbish, but conditions are generally good for a refugee camp, and better than the slums where many Iraqis who were forced from their homes by threats or violence still live. Life in Domiz is also far preferable to what awaited the refugees had they stayed in Syria, they say. Jamal, who asked to be identified only by his first name, was a sergeant in the Syrian army stationed in Hama, a city that has been the site of frequent protests against Assad and clashes between rebels and government forces. The orders were for us to open fire on people in demonstrations, he said, adding that anyone who violated them would be immediately executed or detained, and no one will know where he is. Jamal did not return to Hama after going on leave in April, instead heading to his home town of Malkiya near the border with Kurdistan. He described the journey as scary, with numerous checkpoints along the way. To get through without a pass, he pleaded that his mother and father were sick, and eventually got home. A smuggler then helped him and nine others across the border at night to the safety of Kurdistan. I do not have the soul and conscience to kill my brothers in the street, Jamal said. I cannot kill a woman or old man, I could not bear that, and I came here. A 21-year-old university student from Qamishli, who asked not to be identified, said he was a protester and had been detained and beaten. I went to the demonstrations demanding freedom and against the miserable regime, he said. The Syrian regime detained me once or twice, they threatened me and they beat me several times, he said, also alleging that Syrian forces had fired on a funeral in Qamishli. Despite tight security measures in Qamishli, he was able to escape, and paid a smuggler US$400 to bring him to Kurdistan with a group of about 20 people. He found a job at a cafe in Kurdistans capital Arbil, but he said the wages were poor given the long hours. I want to live in a democratic country and I want rights like any other Syrian citizen, he said. I will stay in Kurdistan until the fall of the regime. AFP

Trade Mark CauTion

Notice is given that Schering Corporation (a New Jersey Corporation) of 2000 Galloping Hill Road, Kenilworth, New Jersey 07033, U.S.A., is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following Trade Marks:reg. no. 2228/1996 reg. no. 3909/2009 in respect of Antihistamine preparations.

CLarinaSe

reg. no. 2229/1996 reg. no. 3910/2009 in respect of Antihistamine/decongestant preparations.

CLariTYne diProSPan
reg. no. 573/1982 reg. no. 3911/2009

reg. no. 874/1982 reg. no. 3912/2009 in respect of Corticosteroid preparations.

diProGenTa rePeTaBS

In California, ample water leads to big waste

By Leila Macor PALM SPRINGS, California An oasis in the California desert, Palm Springs says it is committed to saving water but not before filling its swimming pools and tending to its dozens of verdant golf courses. Set in the Coachella Valley southeast of Los Angeles, the famously wellheeled town known as a refuge for retired Hollywood stars sits atop a huge aquifer able to provide for the 400,000 residents of the regions 10 towns. Despite its parched setting and baking temperatures, the valley plays host to regular golf competitions and the Indian Wells tennis championship, as well as one of Americas biggest music festivals. For now, the aquifer an underground layer of rock containing some 50 billion cubic meters (1.7 trillion cubic feet) of water meets the valleys daily needs, 16 percent of which goes to keeping the roughly 100 local golf courses green. But with the ample water supply comes waste. An average household in Palm Springs consumes some 1233 cubic metres (43,542 cubic feet) of water a year, twice as much as the average US home, which itself uses one of the highest figures worldwide. When you compare [us] to other places in the state, our number is high, we know this, said Heather Engel, communications director for the Coachella Valley Water District. But our consumption is going down. In recent years people are becoming more conscious and aware of the need to conserve water. It may take more than a change in attitude to truly make a difference, according to experts. Noah Garrison, a lawyer and analyst at the Natural Resources Defence Council, points to landscaping as a fundamental problem. We are in a desert or Mediterranean climate, and yet we have huge expanses of lawns, golf courses [and] other areas that require vast amounts of water, Garrison said. Landscaping in general in Southern California doesnt make sense for the climate we are in, he added. In order to make sure that we are able to meet our water needs in the future, we need to be smarter about the way we use water now. While the aquifer is a key source of water for Palm Springs, the district also pumps water from the Colorado River and ice from surrounding mountains to top up its supplies and stop subsidence in the valley, which has sunk 20 centimetres (eight inches) in the past 15 years. Some steps have been taken to promote conservation. The district has implemented watersaving measures, including pricing that penalizes waste. It also runs three recycling plants that treat waste water for some 16 major clients, including golf courses, but such efforts come with high pumping costs. Richard Mogensen, general manager of Desert Willows Golf Resort, said proper infrastructure was not yet in place to encourage more clubs to use recycled water. The challenge is that they havent developed the full infrastructure of piping throughout the whole valley to get more clubs on it, he said. It takes money. Without an economic incentive, it therefore remains unlikely that golf courses which on average use up to 1.2 million cubic metres (42.4 million cubic feet) of water a year will choose recycled supplies. Another challenge to increasing supplies of recycled water is the fluctuating nature of Palm Springs tourism, which provides a major source of revenue, Engel said. In summer, when temperatures are at their most punishing and tourist numbers at their lowest, not enough waste water is produced. And in winter, the high season for tourism, there is less need to recycle because it rains. Garrison, meanwhile, said California as a whole has seen increasingly long periods of drought in recent years and warned that this does not bode well for the future. There are a lot of indications that we are going to see drier conditions in the future were going to see less water availability, and thats something that we need to prepare for. AFP

reg. no. 2231/1996 reg. no. 3913/2009 in respect of Pharmaceutical long acting dosage preparations.

reg. no. 1218/1989 in respect of Human/veterinary Pharmaceuticals and biologicals and cosmetics.

neTroMYCin

in respect preparations.

reg. no. 183/1981 of medicinal and pharmaceutical

WARNING is hereby given that any fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Marks in any manner whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Schering Corporation P. O. Box 60, Yangon E-mail: makhinkyi.law@mptmail.net.mm Dated: 25th June, 2012

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Bombmaker gets 20 year prison term

JAKARTA An Indonesian court sentenced bombmaker Umar Patek to 20 years in jail on June 21 for his role in the 2002 Bali bombings, bringing to an end a 10year probe into the nations deadliest act of terror. Patek, 45, was found guilty of six charges, a number of which related to the twin suicide bombings on a Bali nightclub and bar that killed 202 people, including 88 Australians. We sentence Umar Patek to 20 years in jail, chief judge Encep Yuliardi told the West Jakarta district court. Patek was found guilty of premeditated murder linked to the Bali bombings, and other charges related to the Christmas Eve bombings in 2000 on several churches that killed 19 people in Jakarta. Upon hearing his fate, Patek stood up and shook the judges and prosecutors hands, before hugging his own lawyer and walking past reporters out of the court. His lawyer Asludin Hatjani told AFP said he would hold a consultation with Patek and his family to discuss whether his client wanted to appeal. Umar Patek is very disappointed with the sentence and considers it too severe. He has been honest and admitted what hes done, and he feels the court has not taken that into consideration. The decisions were made by a panel of five judges, who delivered their verdict after a gruelling 11-hour hearing observed by more than 100 journalists, many of whom were Australian, spilling out of the small courtroom. Prosecutors had sought a life sentence, sparing Patek from the firing squad which executed three other key players in the Bali attacks because he had shown remorse during the four-month trial. Patek claimed he was against it from the start and had tried to stop the attack at the 11 th hour. He has also apologised to victims and their families. But, Yuliardi said: He should know that no matter how small his role, the result is loss of lives. He had said he disagreed with it, but he could have rejected and could have considered not to follow the orders of his seniors or at least report to the authorities, the judge added. Before his arrest, Patek was the most-wanted terror suspect in Indonesia and the United States had a $1 million bounty on his head. He was the last suspect detained in Indonesia to be tried for the attacks. Indonesia also executed three men in 2008 Imam Samudra, and brothers Amrozi bin Nurhasyim and Ali Ghufron, known as Mukhlas for playing major roles on the ground in the operation. AFP

Ashraf elected new Pakistan PM

ISLAMABAD MPs elected Raja Pervez Ashraf as Pakistans new prime minister on June 22, in a bid to end a crisis sparked by judges ousting the premier and demanding the arrest of his would-be successor. The national assembly rubber stamped Ashrafs appointment by 211 votes in the 342-member lower house of parliament, dominated by the main ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and its fractious coalition members. Raja Pervez Ashraf is declared to be elected as prime minister of the Islamic republic of Pakistan, speaker Fehmida Mirza announced. In his first speech to parliament shortly after the announcement, Ashraf called on Pakistani Taliban militants to lay down their arms. The irresponsible behaviour of religious extremist has ruined Islam and Pakistan. I, as prime minister of Pakistan, appealed them to lay down arms and join the mainstream of life, he said. Pakistan says 35,000 people have been killed by terrorism in the country since the start of the US-led war on Al-Qaeda after the 9/11 attacks on the United States. Ashraf said his government would continue dialogue for peace with India and all other neighbouring countries including Iran and Afghanistan. He also promised to develop cordial relations with the United States, which have come under severe strain over the past year following a US raid that killed AlQaeda leader Osama bin Laden and a botched US air strike that left 24 Pakistani soldiers dead. We will develop cordial relations with United States and international community on the basis of equal rights and dignity, he said. Islamabad shut its border to NATO supply convoys in Afghanistan after the November air strike and talks designed to reopen the routes have stalled. Washington so far has refused to issue a formal apology over the incident, instead expressing regret and offering condolences. Ashraf did not mention reopening the supply routes. President Asif Ali Zardari Its culmination came on June 19 when the Supreme Court unceremoniously evicted Yousuf Raza Gilani from the prime ministers office after convicting him of contempt for refusing to reopen Swiss corruption cases against Zardari. Two days later an antinarcotics court ordered the arrest of Makhdoom Shahabuddin, Zardaris nomination to replace Gilani, over a drugs scandal. Ashraf has promised to make the power crisis his priority despite being widely criticised for incompetency when power minister from March 2008 to February 2011. I hope soon we will find a solution, he told reporters on June 22. But the question now remains when the next general election will be held. Ashraf promised to hold free, fair and transparent elections. The PPP won elections in 2008 ending nearly a decade of military rule and stands to become the first elected administration in Pakistans history to complete its term in office and hand over to another elected government. AFP

Pakistans new Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf (right) during a meeting in Islamabad on June 22. Pic: AFP will now hope that Ashraf can form a cabinet able to see through the governments five-year term in office, due to expire in February 2013, without the need for early elections. But Ashraf is a controversial choice. Currently being investigated over a corruption case from his tenure as water and power minister, he has also been blamed for much of the governments inability to resolve a disastrous energy crisis. The change in premier is likely to ease little of Pakistans myriad problems, not least appalling power cuts that enrage millions or the stalemate in US relations. Ashraf will also come under immediate pressure from the Supreme Court to write to Swiss authorities, asking them to reopen investigations into Zardari. The PPP government, dogged by corruption allegations, has been locked in a stand-off with the judiciary for years, accused of working behind the scenes with the military and the political opposition.

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Ai Weiwei says cannot Diplomatic tussle over Frenchman leave China as bail ends in China scandal
BEIJING Chinese dissident artist Ai Weiwei said on June 21 he was still barred from leaving the country despite the expiry of a one-year bail condition imposed after his release from detention last June. The outspoken 55-yearold, whose works have been exhibited in scores of countries, spent 81 days in custody last year as police rounded up dissidents amid online calls for Arab Springstyle protests in China. On his release on June 22, 2011, authorities accused him of tax evasion, took away his passport barred him from leaving Beijing for a year a restriction that has prevented him from attending his own exhibitions overseas. On June 21, Ai said he had received an official order announcing the end of his bail term, but that he was still barred from leaving the country. This morning, I went to the police station. My oneyear probation is finished, but they said they will still limit my rights to travel, he said. The order says I cannot travel outside of China. Ai said he was unsure whether he was now able to leave the capital, but added the order did not specify that he was prohibited from travelling within China. They said Im still under investigation for my other crimes. So I said, you have to make a case, you cant just say that. Ais detention last year sparked an international outcry, with the United States and the European Union leading calls for his release. The official Xinhua news agency said after Ais release that he had confessed to tax evasion via the Beijing Fake Cultural Development Ltd, a company he set up but which is legally registered in his wifes name. He has denied this, denouncing the charges as politically motivated and designed to crush his activism. Ai has previously riled the ruling Communist Party with high-profile investigations into the collapse of schools in the 2008 Sichuan earthquake and into a 2010 fire at a Shanghai high-rise that killed dozens of people. On June 20, lawyers for Fake went to court to try and challenge the tax evasion charges and a multi-million-dollar penalty brought against Fake a hearing blanketed in heavy security that Ai himself was not allowed to attend. In an indication of how sensitive the case is, other activists reported being restricted or harassed by authorities on June 20. Liu Xiaoyuan, a legal adviser to Ai Weiwei, said on June 21 authorities had forced him to leave Beijing and return to his native Jiangxi province, while veteran dissident Hu Jia PHNOM PENH Cambodia was at the centre of a diplomatic tug-of-war between Paris and Beijing last week over the arrest of a Frenchman linked to Chinas biggest political scandal in decades. Beijing has requested the extradition of 52year-old architect Patrick Devillers, who was arrested in Phnom Penh on June 13 for committing unspecified offences in China. Devillers is understood to have been a close business associate and friend of disgraced Chinese politician Bo Xilai and his wife Gu Kailai. Bo, the former leader of the southwestern Chinese megacity of Chongqing, is being probed for corruption while Gu has been detained for suspected involvement in the murder of British businessman Neil Heywood last year. But after France on June 20 warned Cambodia not to take any action without a clear legal basis, Phnom Penh promised not to send Devillers to China unless Beijing provides evidence to support its extradition request. In Cambodia he did not commit any wrongdoing, interior ministry spokesman Khieu Sopheak said. If there is no clear evidence he will be freed. China and Cambodia have an extradition treaty but Khieu Sopheak said no decision had been made about the Frenchman, adding that Cambodia was also consulting French authorities on the matter. We are waiting for evidence from the party that requested his arrest. We need evidence from China, he said. We can hold him for 60 days. Devillers connection to the Bo family drama remains unclear but in an interview with French daily Le Monde last month he denied allegations of any wrongdoing. Neighbours and friends in Phnom Penh spoke fondly of long-time resident Devillers, although they said he had not been seen much in recent weeks. He was probably keeping a low profile because he saw the storm coming, said an acquaintance who did not wish to be named. I strongly doubt whether that storm is justified. I see Patrick as a subtle, almost

Chinese artist Ai Weiwei waits at his home after claiming he was barred from attending his court hearing against a multi-million-dollar tax fine in Beijing on June 20. Pic: AFP/Mark Ralston said he was beaten by state security forces on June 20. The hearing lasted more than nine hours, and lawyers said at the end that the court now had until early August to give a ruling. Ai said June 21 he had asked police what specific other crimes he was being investigated for, and they said one of them was putting pornography on the internet. The artist said in November that he was being probed on pornography charges that centre on old pictures posted online of him posing with naked women. At the time, he ridiculed the charges, telling police nudity is not pornography. Before his detention, the burly artist travelled extensively, holding exhibitions of his installations, sculptures and photographs in many countries around the world. The value of his work has shot up since his detention thrust him into the global spotlight, and in October Britains influential Art Review magazine named him the most powerful figure in the art world. His latest piece of work is a pavilion for the London Olympics that he helped build with Swiss firm Herzog and de Meuron, with which he had previously collaborated to create Beijings Birds Nest Stadium. AFP

poetic, creative person who found himself caught in a Chinese tangle because of his enthusiasm. A security guard who works at a furniture store opposite Devillers two-storey house described seeing two vehicles carrying five police officers and two foreigners drive up to the property about two weeks ago. I saw that they took him away, the 18-year-old said, adding that Devillers was not handcuffed. That was the last time I saw him. The woman who runs the furniture store said Devillers had lived in the neighbourhood for around five years and did architectural design work. Hes a good man. He always respects the neighbours, she said, declining to be named. He told me that he lived in China for many years. He speaks Chinese well. A police source said Devillers was being held at Phnom Penhs immigration department. His elderly father Michel Devillers told British newspaper The Daily Telegraph from his home in France that his sons arrest had come as a shock. I spoke to my son 10 days ago and he appeared perfectly calm, he was quoted as saying. He had no idea he was in danger of being arrested. I will be speaking with a French consular contact in Cambodia tomorrow, and I intend to fly to Cambodia as soon as possible. French foreign ministry spokesman Bernard Valero said Paris had asked Cambodia for clarifications on the motives for his arrest. We have made clear that we will be watchful that no legal action of any kind be brought against him unless its legal basis has been clearly established, he said. In Beijing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters he had no information on this case when repeatedly asked about the arrest of Devillers. Hong refused to say whether the extradition of Devillers was brought up during a visit to Cambodia last week by top Chinese leader He Guoqiang, who heads the ruling Communist Partys internal disciplinary organ and is reportedly heading up the investigation into Bo. AFP

Time out
Book uncovers foundations of colonial architecture
By Zon Pann Pwint THE colonial-era buildings of downtown Yangon are the subject of an Englishlanguage book to be published next month by the Association of Myanmar Architects. The book, titled 30 Heritage Buildings of Yangon: Inside the City that Captured Time, will be published Serindia Publications, based in Chicago in the United States. It features photographs and detailed information about the history and current status of important Ya n g o n b u i l d i n g s s u c h as the Ministers Office ( S e c r e t a r i a t ) , Ya n g o n General Hospital, State Fine Arts School, Strand Hotel and Merchant Road Banks. Ms Sarah Rooney, who researched and wrote the text for the book, told The Myanmar Times by email that curiosity about these structures had driven her to study them. I have visited Yangon many times over the years. I was really unable to find out much about these wonderful old buildings that I often walked past in the downtown area, she said. Part of the process of compiling the book included talking to people who live in and around these buildings, but finding the facts about the origins of each building also required delving into archival records. Our personal memories can be fairly flawed as we form a false understanding or unwittingly distort stories we heard long ago, Ms Rooney said. I thought the buildings would have negative connotations for people according to their obvious and visual association with countrys colonial past but everyone I met seemed to be pretty fond of these old buildings and accept them as part of their own history, she said. Her favourite structure is the old Sofaers Building, located at No 62 Pansodan Ro a d a t t h e c o r n e r o f Mahabandoola Road, which now houses Lokanat Art Gallery. She said she was attracted to it not so much for its architectural grandeur but more for its history and the stories behind it. It was built by a Baghdadi Jew. It seems to me a symbol of how cosmopolitan and multi-faceted Yangon once was, Ms Rooney said. She added that the building welcomed all ethnicities and trades: It once housed a high-end Egyptian cigar shop, the Reuters telegram and news service, and a postcard store owned by German photographer Peter Klier. Kliers old photographs are now collectors items and the building even provided a hairdressing salon run by a Filipino who had come to Yangon with a travelling circus, she said. One of the cofounders of Lokanat Art Gallery, artist Pe Nyunt Way, said the gallerys two other cofounders, Paw Oo Thett and Shwe Oung Thame, had originally opened an art space called Gallery Orient at No 555 Merchant Road in 1971. But when they heard there was space available at the Sofaer Building they applied for the room with the purpose of opening a new art gallery. When their application was accepted they closed Gallery Orient and opened Lokanat in 1971. In the early days we displayed the artwork of U Ngwe Gaing and members of Lokanat Gallery, and it became one of the longestrunning galleries in Yangon, Pe Nyunt Way said. Ms Rooney said that most of the structures profiled in 30 Heritage Buildings of Yangon are still stateowned. When the government moved to Nay Pyi Taw in 2005, these buildings were either abandoned or left only partially in use, she said. She said the humid climate a n d e x t e n d e d m on soon season of Southeast Asian cause these buildings to suffer deterioration very quickly if they are not looked after. Weeds, sometimes even whole trees, start to force the brickwork apart, while mildew rises from the damp soil, weakening the structure. White ants add to the destruction by gradually nibbling away at timber beams and walls. Colonial-era buildings in Yangon are irreplaceable and unique within the Southeast Asian region. Many Asia countries have demolished their heritage buildings because of rapidfire development. They have lost their character and a crucial part of their own history, Ms Rooney said. U Min Lwin, owner of Gallery 65, located at No 65, Yaw Min Gyi Road, Dagon township, loves telling visitors the story behind his gallery. A section of 30 Heritage B u i l d i n g s o f Ya n g o n i s dedicated to the two-

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The Telegraph Office on Pansodan Street, Yangon. Pic: Myanmar Times Archives

storey building in which the gallery is located, which has a concrete base and teakwood flooring. My mother moved into the house when she was about 16, and now she is 86. Before that my grandparents stayed here. I didnt know the exact year they moved in, but it was sometime after independence [in 1948], said U Min Lwin, 45, who grew up in the house. There were three other houses on Yaw Min Gyi Road that were exactly like this one. Two houses across the road from us were damaged during World War II, and the one next door was sold to a contractor for redevelopment 25 years ago, he said. Only my house survives on this road, but there are bullet holes from the war on the portico, he said. U Min Lwin said foreign visitors who walk past his house often take photographs, and some even wanted to visit before the gallery opened in May 2010. Ms Rooney said the aim of the 30 Heritage Buildings of Yangon is to draw attention to the buildings history, the stories they hold, their intrinsic value, and the

many possibilities for their future. To write the book, she did a lot walking around downtown Yangon, and used the National Archive and the collection at the British Council Library in Myanmar. Outside the country, she conducted research at the India Office Records at the British Library in London, where the official colonial records are kept. I found fascinating material there, especially in the old Rangoon municipal records. I was able to piece together a lot of the missing links such as the names of the original architects and details of how the buildings were built, she said. She spent a considerable amount of time trying to trace the origins of old photographs. It involved digging around in dusty private collections in Yangon and contacting corporate offices in London that used to have branches in Yangon before World War II, she said. The urgency about heritage preservation is that once a building is knocked down it is, of course, gone forever. And with it goes an irretrievable part of the countrys history, Ms Rooney said.

Legendary journalist Ludu Sein Win passes away, aged 72

By Nyein Ei Ei Htwe JOURNALIST U Sein Win, famed for his fearless news reporting, his willingness to help nurture young writers and his productivity, died on June 17 from lung disease at Shwegondine Specialist Centre (SSC) in Yangon. He was 72 years old. Colleagues said he had continued writing two features a day for local journals until April, even though he required supplementary oxygen. His failing health forced him to stop writing only in the last two months before his death. U Sein Win was born in Mandalay in 1940 and attended the wellknown Lafon Memorial High School. He later attended Mandalay University and graduated from Yangon University. He started working for Ludu newspaper in 1964 as a journalist, and his brave writing style earned him the name Ludu Sein Win. He wrote using 15 pennames throughout his life, and did translation work under the name Win Zaw. In 1967 Ludu newspaper was suspended by the government for publishing unauthorised news. Five editors were sent to jail, including U Sein Win. He was released from jail in 1976, but the following year was sent back for four years. During his second prison stint U Sein Win suffered a stroke that paralysed the right side of his body. When he resumed writing after his release, he had to use his left hand. He also started offering English-speaking classes from his home. In 1999 he dropped all his pennames except Ludu Sein Win, which he used to publish books that further increased his fame: Lu Nge Nae A Chit (Youth and Love), A Shat Nae Tan Phoe (Shame and Value), Sar Nal Zin A Yay A Thar Pone San Thit (New Writing Styles of Journalism) and The Essence of Journalism. It was during this period that he also became famous for his prolific habit of writing two stories or articles a day. Hantharwati U Win Tin, who wrote features and worked with U Sein Win for 40 years, said he will dearly miss his strong-minded and honest friend. With his views as a journalist, Ko Sein Win always stood on the right side. But he didnt just stand, he dared to point out what was wrong, and not just point them out, he also asked for changes, U Win Tin said. As a dutiful of journalist, he dared to indicate the wrong systems and wrong positions. He always stood on the side of the public and he tried to be a valuable person. I want to wish for his beliefs, thoughts and positions to stay alive for years, he said. U Wi n Ti n a d d e d t h a t t h e features written by U Sein Win were aimed first and foremost at benefiting the public. As he and I worked together for years, I see that he had a wish to nurture young people. In fact, he had a real ability to help young journalists improve their journalism skills. Whenever I looked at him, I saw all the signs of perseverance, he said. And although he used supplemental oxygen toward the end of his life, he still had the strength to write many books, all of which were great and perfect. One of U Sein Wins students, Mg Sein Win (Patigone), wrote a poem dedicated to his teacher, which he read aloud at the funeral service at Yay Way Cemetery on June 19. The poem means that if all the stars fell from the sky, it wouldnt cause many problems. But if a single star that showed people the way dropped form the sky, then all those who followed it would become lost. For me, all of Ludu Sein Wins words hold a value beyond my ability to express, Mg Sein Win said. As he disappears, it is a loss to Myanmars literary and journalism communities that cannot be replaced.

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Writers group forms executive committee

By Zon Pann Pwint THE formation of the Myanmar Writers Association (MWA) came one step closer to reality when an organisational meeting was held in Yangon on June 16, at which votes were cast to select executive committee members, including a chair and secretary. The associations first chairman, U Tin Hlaing (penname Letwin Thar Saw Chit), said an urgent conference had been held on March 24 at which a decision was made to form the MWA within three months. Myanmar Journalists Association will be organised by July, U Tin Hlaing said. Sometimes collaboration with others can work wonders, but fruitful results can also be achieved by working separately as a more focused organisation, he added, referring to the fact that the new association has risen from the ashes of the recently dissolved Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association (MWJA). Other new organisations being formed from the defunct association include the Myanmar Journalists Association and the Myanmar Publishers and Booksellers Association. U Tin Hlaing said that with the changes that were occurring in Myanmar, now was the time to pursue extensive reforms that would help local writers. One of the goals of MWA is to translate our finest novels so we can spread Myanmar literature around the globe, he said. Other goals include increasing literacy rates, developing the publics use of libraries, organising writing courses, arranging literature talks throughout the country and providing financial support to writers and their families, he added. The June 16 conference was attended by 199 representatives, who cast votes to select 35 committee members out of 53 candidates. The candidates included 20 members from the former MWJA, six well-known writers Chit San Win, Maung Sein Win (Padeegone), Nuam Jar Thine, Kaung Thant, Ma Hnin Phway and Pone Nya Khin and 27 conference representatives from townships throughout Myanmar. Following the vote, U Tin Hlaing was chosen as chairman, U Maung Maung Aye as secretary, and Maung Nyein Thu, Maung Sein Naung and Maung Soe Htike as assistant secretaries one, two and three respectively.

Chinese author wins German literature prize

BERLIN Chinese dissident author Liao Yiwu on June 21 won the annual German Book Trade Peace Prize, earning praise for his portrayal of what the judges called the outcasts of modern China. The author, also known as Lao Wei, has been in Germany since 2010 after successfully defying a travel ban by first walking by foot to Vietnam. He spent four years in jail after writing the poem Massacre about the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. Liao is also the author of The Corpse Walker, which records the lives of workingclass Chinese including a grave robber and a delusional peasant who believes he is an emperor. His works are banned in China. In its reasoning, the Book Trade foundation praised an author who has bravely and unflinchingly protested against political oppression and given an audible voice to the disenfranchised people in his country. The author, who has himself experienced prison, torture and repression, is a determined chronicler and observer of the outcasts of modern China, added the foundation in a statement. The honour, Germanys second highest book prize after the Georg Buechner Prize, carries an endowment of 25,000 euros (US$32,000). The German Book Trade Peace Prize has been awarded each year since 1950. Pa s t w i n n e r s i n c l u d e Turkish author Orhan Pamuk, Hungarian Peter Esterhazy and Czech writer and former president Vaclav Havel. Last years prize was won by internationally acclaimed Algerian author Boualem Sansal. Liao will be formally presented with the prize at the Frankfurt Book Fair, the worlds biggest, on October 14. AFP with ... Nuam Bawi

Book Review

Celebrating the hero of retreat

By Thomas Kean THE soldiers march into the parliament just as the house is voting on who will be the next prime minister. Bullets whiz through the air and the stunned representatives quickly hit the floor all except three. That scene in the Spanish Cortes on February 23, 1981 fortuitously recorded on the parliaments television cameras and broadcast live on national radio is the fulcrum for Javier Cercass The Anatomy of a Moment, a dissection of the ultimately failed attempt by Francoist military forces to snatch back power from an elected government. It is this powerful footage both failed and successful coup detats are rarely caught on film that Cercas returns to repeatedly in The Anatomy of the Moment, and in particular the stories of the three individuals who refused to take cover: Adolfo Surez, the outgoing prime minister; General Guttirez Mellado, his deputy prime minister; and Santiago Carrillo, secretary general of the recently legalised Communist Party. Under Surezs leadership, the country had quickly thrown off the vestiges of Francoism after the generals death in 1975, welcoming back political opponents and reforming the countrys political institutions. Yet from the middle of 1980, the government and more importantly Surezs leadership began to falter, prompting elements within the military to believe their involvement in government would be not only tolerated but also widely welcomed by the public in the guise of, as Cercas repeatedly puts it, a coalition or caretaker or unity government a touch on the rudder. For Spain, it was a moment in which the transition to democracy, begun at a rapid pace just five years earlier, could have taken an altogether different course, and Cercas details with precision how it played out and the reasons why it did not succeed. While the decision of Francos successor, King Juan Carlos I, to side with the elected parliamentarians and denounce the golpistas leading the coup was decisive in its failure, many other factors played a role, not least the defiance of Surez, Guttirez Mellado and Carrillo. Nevertheless, the book asks almost as many questions as it answers, particularly of persons who are suspected of having a hand in the coup but were never tried. Published in Spanish in 2009 as Anatomia de un instante and in English two years later, The Anatomy of a Moment began as a novel about the February 23 coup, Cercas writes in the introduction, before he realised that for once reality mattered more to me than fiction or mattered to me too much to want to reinvent it by substituting it with an alternative reality, because none of what I could imagine about 23 February concerned me and excited me as much or could be as complex and persuasive as the pure reality of 23 February. Best known for his novel Soldiers of Salamis, Cercas evidently felt no need to adopt the typical dryness of a work of non-fiction. While some may find it verbose and repetitive, for me his generous use of commas, colons, dashes and semicolons brings The Anatomy of a Moment to life. It seemed serendipitous to be reading The Anatomy of a Moment in Myanmar in 2012, at a time when the country is going through a similarly peaceful and unexpected political transformation to the one Spain experienced in the late 1970s. Without dwelling on these similarities too much, the Spanish government was also welcoming back exiled and underground dissidents and the military was receding from power, while slow-burning but violent insurgencies continued in the background.

Antonio Tejero stands with a gun in his hand at the Congress of Deputies in Spanish Parliament on February 23, 1981. Pic: Manuel Prez Barriopedro However, the Spanish miracle of the 1960s meant Spain was not forced to attempt economic reform at the same time as political change. There also appears to be no figure in Myanmar analogous to King Juan Carlos I. The months leading up to February 23 when many became disillusioned with democracy, turned on Surez and publicly called for some form military intervention offer an important warning for Myanmar: While democracy may not be a perfect system of government, it is certainly preferable to the alternatives. Perhaps t h e most speculative but also intriguing sections of The Anatomy of a Moment occur when Cercas explores the motivations of each of the key actors on both sides of the coup. The figure of Surez who, like President U Thein Sein, appeared an unlikely choice to get the top job and even less likely to be the person to lead a genuine opening up of the countrys political institutions is particularly compelling. Having quietly risen through the ranks through patronage and politics, the provincial Falangist upstart was considered by most Spaniards to be new wine in old barrels a young loyalist of the old regime. What they got, not only in the admittedly flawed form of Surez but also Guttirez Mellado and Carrillo the general and the communist who assisted in the dismantling of Francoism were, according to Cercas, traitors they betrayed their loyalty to an error in order to construct their loyalty to a truth. Sometimes loyalty is a form of betrayal and betrayal is a form of loyalty, he writes. The hero of retreat is a hero of betrayal. While somewhat counterintuitive, it is a powerful idea that dispenses with the oversimplistic notion of good and bad or collaborators and opponents. Although Spain had seen many coups before, February 23 seems anachronistic in hindsight, and Cercas argues that it killed off any chance of the military returning to power: Subsequent plots to overthrow elected governments emanated from an increasingly radical fringe of the armed forces. The kings decision to side with the parliament strengthened both the monarchy and parliamentary democracy as institutions, and the public and political elite permanently lost the nostalgia for military rule they showed in the months preceding February 23.

Liao Yiwu (aka Lao Wei). Pic: AFP

Events Flash
Rare book exhibition

A rare book exhibition organised by A Myin Thit publishing house will be held at Lokanat Gallery through June 30, from 9am to 5pm daily. The exhibition features old newspapers and journals, as well as rare books.

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programming that would appeal to a broader audience. To build up content, he has a simple arrangement with the bands: They allow him to professionally record their performances in his cramped Beijing studio for free and he uploads it up to his website without charge. The Mogo internet platform is really cool. It is a professional video site. It allows us to see what other bands are doing, said Qi Zihan, lead singer of the electronic folk band Mountain People. After 10 years of constant touring, Mountain People from the mountainous southwestern province of Yunnan have become renowned for their amped-up traditional Chinese instruments and energy-packed shows. As well as becoming a favourite band in Beijing, the Mountain People are revered in their home province of Yunnan and regularly tour overseas. Years before, the music was restricted in China, but now things are better, Qi said. [The government] realised that overall the music and the music industry didnt have such a big influence on society. They realised there are no problems [with rock music]. Overall they want the music industry to develop. Meanwhile, bands are smart enough to know that mixing music with sensitive political issues could be a fast way to end a career, Bloom said. There are thousands of bands, indie bands, hip-hop bands, ethnic bands that are really pushing the envelop in music. They are starting to write great songs, their arrangements are good, they are playing better, Bloom said. The bands arent stupid, they want to play music, the fans want to hear music, it is nothing more complicated than that. Not everything has to be political, music is music. AFP

MyanMar tiMes

Chinas new music scene takes off

By Robert Saiget BEIJING After decades struggling with official censorship, Chinas contemporary music scene is finally taking off, fuelled by live shows, the internet and a government eager to cash in on a growing market. Chinese indie bands came late to the music scene, largely missing out on the lucrative days of vinyl records, cassettes and compact discs, and also suffered enormously from state broadcasters preference for pop. But from rock to rap, and hiphop to grunge, the independent music scene has blossomed in recent years as the internet and an explosion in live venues have given an outlet to acts long shunned by state-run television and radio. Since I have been here, everything has changed, said Helen Feng, the lead singer of the electronica band Nova Heart who returned to her native Beijing in 2003 and has just finished a European tour. The changes in the music scene have been massive. Everything has gotten better, personal liberties have gone up, the numbers of bands have gone up, the numbers of venues have gone up, financial support has gone up, fans have gone up. Born in Beijing to Chinese parents, Feng, 34, spent most of her childhood in the United States where she was raised on the likes of Natalie Cole and George Gershwin, eventually graduating from University of Southern California where she minored in music. Since returning to China, the blonde diva has been at the centre of the Beijing music scene, fronting three different successful bands, while working jobs with state radio and television and American music video giant MTV.

Singer Helen Feng (R) of the band Nova Heart performs at the 2Kolegas live music venue in Beijing on May 26. Pic: AFP/Ed Jones Feng, whose bands have toured throughout China, playing numerous outdoor music festivals, says there is no longer much government antipathy to modern music something veteran music producer Kenny Bloom agrees with. The government has become supportive of the music industry. No one is banned in China and no one is arrested for singing a song, at least not to my knowledge, said Bloom, who runs an internet platform promoting Chinese indie bands. While available sales data is thin, bands get by on what they make from concerts and fairly low-level CD sales in a market notorious for piracy. Bloom said many of the around 100 music festivals that now take place in China every year were sponsored by local governments eager to showcase their local enterprises, bolster regional tourism and let the music industry grow. The fact that they give licences to all these music festivals is a great indicator. They are letting these big festivals take place with up to 60,000 people going to them. And nobody seems to mind. Bloom used to produce albums for Cui Jian, one of Chinas biggest music stars and known as the Godfather of Chinese rock and roll. He set up Mogo.com.cn in 2009 to promote independent music in China and the website now features footage of thousands of live performances from about 300 indie bands, which users can access for free. At the moment the site is mainly used by industry insiders and musicians themselves, but Bloom plans to introduce presenter-led

Japan tattooist draws line between art and underworld

TOKYO For tattoo artist Horiyoshi III, the skin into which he sinks his inkinfused needle is a canvas for the myths and legends of Japan where body art is indelibly linked to the criminal underworld. The mountains and waves of 18 th century art, or fabulous mythical creatures are a far cry from the stylised designs so common in the West that might usually draw disapproval from parents and teachers. But the tattoo in Japan has a much worse reputation, associated with the violent gangsters of the yakuza criminal underworld an association that ink proponents argue is unfair. Horiyoshi who uses the modern metal variation of a bamboo stick still favoured by some traditionalists said his biggest inspiration is Hokusai, an artist famed for woodblock prints of a tsunami against Mount Fuji. But I am also influenced by other Japanese artists, he said at an exhibition of his work with all live subjects last month in Tokyo, citing Utagawa Kuniyoshi, known for his landscapes, mystical animals and depictions of samurai swordfights. And of course I do not exactly reproduce their works: I have to adapt their designs to the bodies on which I work. Former gym teacher Asada Yoshi is covered with the masters designs, which retell Japanese mythology on the 52-year-olds body. On the right leg, you see a koi [Japanese carp] jumping and on the left leg a creature half dragon and half koi and then on the back I designed a massive dragon, said Horiyoshi, who like a kabuki actor, inherited his single name from his teacher. It refers to an ancient legend in which the carp turns into a dragon after it swam against a waterfall. H o r i y o s h i s G e r m a n born apprentice Alexander Reinke, who one day hopes to become Horiyoshi IV, said he was attracted to Japanese tattoos because of their singularity. He said, unlike those popular in the West, tattoos in Japan have their own narrative and do not borrow from other cultures. The often badlyrendered Chinese or Sanskrit characters that adorn bodies in London or New York would not be found in Japan, he said. The biggest difference is that tattoos in the West are created to underline a persons individuality, he said. They want to make a statement or remember something they are a really big fan of. But in Japan some groups get tattoos not to underline their individuality because individuality is not so important in Japan, its the group that is important, Reinke added. That mentality often translates into tattoo clubs where members meet and show off their designs, just regular people with normal jobs who have a passion for body art, he said. Usually, a group that is tattooed by the same master kind of forms a little club by themselves, like here today where everybody who is meeting has been tattooed

Japanese tattooist Horiyoshii III tattoos a flower on the back of a woman at the Foreign Correspondents Club in Tokyo on May 22. Pic: AFP/Toru Yamanaka by Mr Horiyoshi and is just having a good time. Yoshi concedes, however, that having a tattoo in his old job as a gym coach was impossible. Its hard to get a tattoo in Japan, he said. Most people have big prejudices. But my curiosity and my passion was stronger than prejudice. Tattooed people are barred entry from scores of venues in Japan, from hot springs to fitness centres, while the mayor of Osaka recently forced city employees to fill out a survey revealing whether or not they have a tattoo. That discrimination is tied to a seemingly unbreakable association with the yakuza, whose members distinctive tattoos denote their association to crime families, such as the Yamaguchigumi. The crime clan is believed to have about 50,000 members, who have a reputation for engaging in everything from gambling, drugs and prostitution to white-collar crime and loansharking. Tattoos have a bad image everywhere, but particularly in Japan they are associated with violence and yakuza, even if that is a simplistic view, Horiyoshi said. This image is still stuck in peoples minds: tattoo equals criminal, criminal equals yakuza. People are now scared of tattoos. AFP

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AFIC/SFIC Delegation Dinner of Nat Ray Co., Ltd. and MTMA
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SOCIALITE launched last week with a splendiferous bang by going to the YBS press conference at 46th Street in Botahtaung township on June 12. The WITH NYEIN EI EI HTWE next day she attended the new product launch for Myanmar Power Spectrum at Summit Park View Hotel. She spent June 13 at home, wondering why she refers to herself in the third person. She came to no conclusion, but the next day she was out and about again, hitting two events at Sedona Hotel: a Toshiba product launch, followed by a dinner party for United Pacific Group. On June 16 Socialite dropped by the opening ceremony for Lladro boutique shop, as well as the Liverpool Hope University Education seminar at Traders Hotel. The following day she attended the Pre-Collegiate Programs ninth graduation ceremony at Strand Hotel.

SOCIALITE

United Pacific Company Dinner Party

Ko Min Min Tun

U Hla Myint Shwe and Daw Aye Myat Mon

Daw Ye Ye Than and Daw Chout Sein

Ma San San Shwe Ko Mg Mg Win and Ko Tin tun Oo Ko Tun Lwin

Toshiba New Product Launch

Mr. Jerry Tan & Daw Khin Marla Model Ma Tin Su Su Latt and Daw Hla Hla Yee

Lladro Boutique Shop Opening

Mr Shawn, Mr Goto Yosuke, Mr Lester Lieu and Mr Dave

N3 Gems and Jewellery Shop Opening

Guest, Mr Fernando Gallego Cruz, Mr Gul Sugnomal Aswani and Daw Mi Mi Thin

Ma Nan Mo Khan, Daw Khin Naw Htwe, Ma Nang Naing Zan Lin and U Sin Tun Lin

Ma Hay Man Pyae Ribbon-cutting ceremony Ma Nan Moe Khan and Ma Thiri Wai

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June 25 - July 1, 2012
Pre-Collegiate Program Graduation Ceremony Liverpool Hope University Press Conference

MyanMar tiMes

Ms Nancy Cooke

U Ba Than Ma Ei Thant Sin and family Mr Jim Guyot

Dr Swe Swe Than Daw Mie Mie Nyo Ms Helen Waller Ko Lin San Oo, Ma Ei Than Sin and Ko Htoo Wai Htet

Myanmar Power Spectrum New Product Launch

Ma Ei Thant Sin Mr Jack and Mr Francesco Bellone U Moe Kyaw U Zay Yar Kyaw U Han Zar Tun, Ms Dorothy Guyot, Ma D Dee Kham, Ma Ei Thant Sin and Daw Myo Myint

Daw Thet Thet Mar, U Nyi Nyi Lwin, Ko Win Htaik and U Pouk

U Soe Moe Aung, U Thein Tan and U Lay Aung

Staff members

YBS Opening Ceremony

Ma Thaw Thaw Kyi Phyu, Daw Aye Aye Thar Tun, Ms Dorathy Nyo and Daw Ohnmar Thar Tun

Ma Pyae Pyae Kyaw, Ma Aye Moh Moh Khine and Ma Thaw Thaw Kyi Phyu

Ma Su Charlotte

trAvel
Days Flight Dep Arr Days Flight Dep Arr
TUE W9 009 AW 902 AW 892 6T 402 YH 910 W9 011 YH 812 6T 802 W9 251 W9 150 AW 762 K7 224 YH 730 6T 502 08:30 08:35 08:35 08:55 09:25 09:25 13:25 13:30 13:35 16:20 16:35 16:45 17:20 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:45 08:55 09:35 14:10 15:35 16:40 17:10 17:50 17:20 18:20 08:30 08:35 08:45 08:50 08:55 13:10 14:10 16:00 16:45 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:45 08:50 08:55 09:35 13:35 16:30 17:10 17:20 17:35 17:45 18:20 08:00 08:35 08:55 09:25 10:50 13:10 15:35 16:40 16:45 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:35 08:55 09:25 09:35 11:20 13:10 13:30 16:00 17:10 17:20 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 07:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 15:00 09:30 10:00 10:30 10:55 10:50 11:10 14:50 14:55 15:00 17:45 18:40 20:00 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:10 10:55 11:45 15:10 17:00 18:45 18:35 19:15 19:25 19:45 09:30 10:30 10:10 10:15 10:55 14:35 15:10 17:25 20:00 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:10 10:45 10:55 11:45 15:00 17:55 19:25 19:25 19:00 19:10 19:45 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:10 12:15 14:35 17:00 18:05 20:00 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:00 10:30 10:55 11:10 11:45 12:45 14:35 14:55 17:25 18:35 19:25 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:50 08:05 08:20 18:20 07:20 07:35 07:35 07:50 08:05 18:20

38
www.mmtimes.com/2012/flight/flight.pdf
the

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DOMESTIC FLIGHT SCHEDULES

Days Flight Dep Arr
FRI AW 891 06:15 07:35 W9 009 06:30 07:25 6T 401 06:30 07:50 YH 917 06:30 08:05 K7 222 07:00 08:20 SAT AW 891 06:15 07:35 6T 403 06:15 08:30 W9 009 06:30 07:25 6T 401 06:30 07:50 YH 917 06:30 08:05 6T 801 10:30 11:50 K7 224 15:00 18:20 SUN W9 143 06:00 07:20 AW 891 06:15 07:35 YH 909 06:15 07:50 W9 009 06:30 07:25 6T 401 06:30 07:50 YH 917 06:30 08:05 K7 222 07:00 08:20

Days Flight Dep Arr

TUE K7 826 6T 801 W9 115 AW 761 YH 811 6T 501 YH 731 K7 224 07:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 11:15 15:00 15:00 15:00 06:30 07:00 11:00 11:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 07:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 15:00 07:00 11:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 07:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 07:00 07:30 10:30 11:00 11:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 08:15 10:20 12:10 12:10 12:40 16:10 16:25 17:20 08:40 10:10 12:10 12:25 15:40 16:10 16:25 08:15 12:10 12:10 12:25 15:25 16:10 16:25 17:20 10:10 12:10 15:25 16:10 16:25 08:15 12:10 12:10 12:25 16:10 16:25 17:20 10:10 08:40 11:40 12:10 12:25 16:10 16:25 12:25

Days Flight Dep Arr

SUN AW SPL 08:55 10:05 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 W9 011 09:40 10:35 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 223 10:30 11:45 AW 752 16:45 17:55 W9 116 16:45 17:55 YH 738 17:20 18:35

Orangutans a
By John Gittelsohn THE sign at Camp Leakey on the Indonesian island of Borneo says: Never stand between a male and a female orangutan. We were watching a group of female orangutans feasting on bananas, babies clinging to their bellies, when we learned why. First came the sound of snapping branches, like a bulldozer crashing through the forest. The mother orangutans stuffed their mouths with bananas and started to flee just as Tom, a massive red-haired ape with black cheek pads framing his glassy brown eyes, swung down from the trees. One female, Akmad, was too slow to escape the long arm of Tom. He grabbed her ankle, tossed her on her back and had his way in less than a minute. When Tom was finished, he let out a loud fart. My wife and I visited Borneo in November, taking a four-day river trip to see some of our closest relatives on the evolutionary tree in their native habitat. We have gone on safaris to view tortoises in the Galapagos Islands, wild tigers in Indias Ranthambore National Park and grizzly bears in Alaskas Denali National Park. The Borneo trip was my favourite. Orangutan is an Indonesian word for jungle person. The babies are cute. The youthful apes are naughty. The mothers are nurturing. And you dont want to get in the way of the dominant males. We were the only passengers on the Kosasi, a 12-metre (40-foot) wooden boat powered by a singlecylinder diesel engine. It putted lazily up the Sekonyer River, gateway to the Tanjung Puting National Park, a refuge for one of the worlds largest colonies of the rare apes. Orangutans are native only to the islands of Borneo and Sumatra, their habitats shrinking from encroachment by loggers and palm-oil plantations, their ranks decimated by poachers and trappers. The Sumatran orangutan population has dwindled to an estimated 7500, according to the World Wildlife Fund, which lists the species as critically endangered with the possibility of extinction in 50 years. An estimated 41,000 orangutans live in Borneo, according to the WWF, including about 38,000 in Indonesias Central Kalimantan province, where the Tanjung Puting park is. Research on Borneos orangutans has been conducted continuously since 1971, when a thengraduate student named Birute Galdikas persuaded Louis Leakey, the famed African paleontologist, to fund her studies in Tanjung Puting. Galdikas became one of Leakeys Angels, living among Borneos orangutans as Jane Goodall stayed with the chimpanzees of Tanzania and Dian Fossey dwelled among Rwandas mountain gorillas. Galdikas still supervises research in Tanjung Puting, financed in part by the Orangutan Foundation International, a Los Angeles-based notfor-profit group she cofounded. She established Camp Leakey as a centre where orphaned and domesticated orangutans are rehabilitated to survive in the wild. The first chapter of Galdikass autobiography, Reflections of Eden: My Years With the Orangutans of Borneo, is titled Akmad after the ape who couldnt escape Tom. Akmad was a lady, Galdikas writes. How human she appeared, like an orange gnome, with her intelligent, quietly inquisitive face. Loggers captured the infant Akmad shortly after Galdikas arrived in Borneo, according to Reflections, holding the ape in a cage for possible sale until she was rescued and transferred to Camp Leakey for rehabilitation. Orangutan rehab consists mostly of daily feedings to help the apes survive while they re-adjust to life in the wild. Orangutans are usually reclusive, but those in rehab can be naughty neighbours. Rangers shield the windows of their cabins and outbuildings with chain-link fencing to prevent intrusions. During our visit, one ranger briefly left his kitchen door ajar and a

YANGON TO MANDALAY
MON AW 891 6T 405 AW 911 6T 401 K7 222 W9 011 6T 801 AW 761 6T 351 K7 824 AW 791 K7 224 6T 501 TUE K7 228 YH 909 6T 405 AW 891 AW 901 W9 251 6T 401 6T 801 YH 729 AW 761 K7 622 K7 224 6T 501 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 07:00 07:30 08:30 11:00 11:30 12:30 14:30 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 08:00 11:00 11:00 13:30 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:30 06:30 07:00 07:00 10:45 11:00 11:00 12:30 13:30 13:30 14:30 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 10:30 11:00 13:30 15:00 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 07:00 11:00 11:00 12:30 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 10:30 10:45 11:30 13:30 15:00 15:00 16:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 07:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 13:30 15:00 08:35 08:35 08:55 09:35 10:50 13:20 14:10 16:30 16:35 16:45 17:20 18:20 08:20 08:20 07:55 08:35 09:15 08:30 09:55 12:55 12:55 13:55 15:55 16:25 17:00 07:25 07:55 08:20 08:20 08:20 07:55 08:35 09:25 12:40 12:55 14:55 16:25 17:00 08:20 07:50 08:35 08:25 09:15 12:10 12:10 13:10 13:55 14:55 14:55 16:25 17:10 17:00 07:55 08:20 08:35 08:35 08:55 08:25 13:30 12:55 14:55 16:25 17:00 17:10 08:20 07:55 08:35 08:50 08:25 09:15 12:25 12:55 13:55 17:00 17:10 07:25 07:40 07:55 08:20 07:50 07:50 13:30 12:10 12:55 14:55 16:25 17:00 08:20 08:30 08:20 08:35 08:55 09:15 09:25 12:25 12:25 14:55 17:00 10:00 10:30 10:55 11:45 12:15 14:45 15:10 17:55 18:00 20:00 19:25 19:45

WED W9 009 AW 892 6T 332 6T 402 K7 223 W9 021 6T 802 AW 792 YH 738 AW 752 6T 502 K7 825 THUR W9 009 AW 892 6T 332 AW 902 6T 402 YH 812 W9 021 AW 202 K7 224 YH 730 6T 502 FRI W9 009 AW 892 6T 332 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 251 AW 212 YH 731 6T 502 W9 232 YH 728 K7 825 6T 404 AW 892 6T 402 W9 011 W9 262 YH 812 6T 802 AW 602 K7 224 YH 730 6T 502

WED AW 911 K7 222 W9 119 YH 737 AW 791 6T 501 YH 731 THUR K7 826 AW 761 AW 201 YH 811 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 224 FRI K7 222 AW 211 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 826 AW 751 W9 119 YH 811 6T 501 YH 731 K7 224

YANGON TO SITTWE
MON 6T 611 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45 TUE 6T 611 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45

WED 6T 611 09:00 10:25 W9 309 13:00 14:45 THUR 6T 611 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45 FRI 6T 607 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45 K7 426 15:00 16:20 6T 611 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45

NYAUNG U TO YANGON
MON K7 222 08:40 11:45 AW 792 17:50 19:10 W9 109 17:25 18:20 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25 K7 225 18:40 20:00 TUE YH 910 08:40 10:00 AW 762 17:20 18:40 W9 109 17:25 18:20 AW 792 17:25 18:45 6T 502 18:05 19:25 YH 732 18:10 19:30 K7 225 18:40 20:00 WED K7 222 08:40 11:45 W9 109 17:25 18:20 AW 792 17:25 18:45 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25 THUR YH 910 08:40 10:00 W9 109 17:25 18:20 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25 K7 225 18:40 20:00 FRI K7 222 08:40 11:45 W9 109 17:25 18:20 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25 SAT YH 910 08:40 10:00 6T 404 08:45 10:05 W9 109 17:25 18:20 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25 K7 225 18:40 20:00 SUN K7 222 08:40 11:45 YH 910 08:40 10:00 W9 109 17:25 18:20 YH 732 17:55 19:15 6T 502 18:05 19:25

SAT

WED AW 891 AW 911 6T 401 6T 331 K7 222 6T 801 AW 751 YH 737 K7 824 K7 622 W9 261 AW 791 YH 731 6T 501 THUR YH 909 AW 891 AW 901 6T 401 W9 255 6T 331 YH 729 AW 201 K7 226 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 FRI AW 891 W9 251 6T 401 YH 917 6T 331 K7 222 AW 751 AW 211 K7 824 6T 501 YH 731 W9 271 6T 403 YH 909 AW 891 AW 911 6T 401 YH 729 6T 801 AW 601 K7 622 K7 224 6T 501 AW 891

SUN 6T 611 11:15 12:40 W9 309 13:00 14:45 K7 426 15:00 16:20

SAT

SITTWE TO YANGON
MON 6T 612 12:55 14:20 W9 310 15:00 16:45 TUE 6T 612 12:55 14:20 W9 310 15:00 16:45

SUN K7 222 AW SPL AW 751 W9 115 YH 811 6T 501 YH 731 YH 737

WED 6T 612 10:40 12:05 W9 310 15:00 16:45 THUR 6T 612 12:55 14:20 W9 310 15:00 16:45 FRI 6T 608 12:55 14:55 W9 310 15:00 16:45 K7 427 16:40 18:00 6T 612 12:55 14:20 W9 310 15:00 16:45

SAT

HEHO TO YANGON
MON W9 143 09:05 10:15 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 W9 011 09:40 10:35 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 223 10:30 11:45 AW 792 16:55 19:10 K7 225 17:40 20:00 TUE AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 W9 011 09:40 10:35 6T 402 09:45 10:55 W9 116 16:45 17:55 K7 827 11:15 12:30 K7 225 17:40 20:00 WED W9 143 09:05 10:15 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 223 10:30 11:45 THUR W9 143 09:05 10:15 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 827 11:15 12:30 K7 225 17:40 20:00 FRI W9 143 09:05 10:15 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 223 10:30 11:45 SAT AW 911 08:55 11:05 W9 143 09:05 10:15 AW 892 09:20 10:30 YH 918 09:35 10:45 6T 402 09:45 10:55 K7 827 11:15 12:30 AW 752 17:15 18:25 K7 225 17:40 20:00

SUN 6T 612 12:55 14:20 K7 427 16:40 18:00

YANGON TO MYEIK
MON K7 319 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30 TUE AW 301 07:00 09:05 K7 313 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30

SAT

WED K7 313 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30 THUR K7 319 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30 AW 301 12:45 14:50 FRI AW 301 07:00 09:05 K7 319 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30 K7 319 07:00 09:10 6T 707 08:00 10:00

SAT

SUN W9 009 YH 910 AW 892 6T 402 W9 011 K7 223 W9 256 YH 812 6T 802 AW 212 YH 738 6T 502 MON W9 143 AW 891 YH 633 6T 401 YH 917 K7 222 K7 224 TUE W9 143 AW 901 AW 891 6T 401 YH 917 K7 224

SAT

YANGON TO MYITKYINA
MON W9 255 06:30 09:25 TUE W9 251 06:30 09:25 K7 622 13:30 16:30 WED K7 622 13:30 16:30 THUR AW 201 06:30 09:20 W9 255 06:30 09:25 FRI SAT W9 251 06:30 09:25 K7 622 13:30 16:30 W9 255 06:30 09:25 K7 622 13:30 16:30

SUN K7 319 07:00 09:10 6T 707 11:30 13:30 AW 301 12:45 14:50

MYEIK TO YANGON
MON K7 320 11:50 14:00 6T 708 15:55 17:55 TUE K7 314 09:30 11:40 6T 708 15:55 17:55 AW 302 17:15 19:20

YANGON TO NYAUNG U

SUN AW 211 06:00 08:50

WED K7 314 09:30 11:40 6T 708 15:55 17:55 THUR AW 302 11:30 13:35 K7 320 11:50 14:00 6T 708 15:55 17:55 FRI SAT K7 320 11:50 14:00 6T 708 15:55 17:55 K7 320 11:50 14:00 6T 708 12:25 14:25

SUN YH 909 AW 891 6T 401 W9 255 K7 222 6T 801 AW 211 AW 751 K7 622 6T 501 MON YH 634 AW 892 6T 402 K7 223 W9 262 6T 802 W9 021 YH 728 AW 762 K7 224 6T 502 K7 825

MYITKYINA TO YANGON
MON W9 256 09:45 12:40 TUE W9 252 12:05 15:00 K7 623 16:50 19:50 WED K7 623 16:50 19:50 THUR AW 202 09:35 12:25 W9 256 09:45 12:40 FRI SAT W9 252 12:05 15:00 K7 623 16:50 19:50 K7 623 16:50 19:50

Domestic Airlines
Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)
56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 652754 (Airport Office), Fax: 525 937

SUN K7 320 11:50 14:00 6T 708 15:55 17:55 AW 302 17:15 19:20

MANDALAY TO YANGON

WED W9 143 06:00 07:20 AW 891 06:15 07:35 6T 401 06:30 07:50 K7 222 07:00 08:20 YH 917 06:30 08:05 AW 781 15:00 17:10 THUR AW 891 06:15 07:35 W9 009 06:30 07:25 AW 901 06:30 07:50 6T 401 06:30 07:50 YH 917 06:30 08:05 K7 224 15:00 18:20

Domestic
6T = Air Mandalay W9 = Air Bagan AW = Asian Wings K7 = AIR KBZ YH = Yangon Airways

Asian Wings (AW)

No.34(A-1), Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Township,Yangon. Myanmar. Tel: 951 516654, 532253, 09-73135991~3.Fax: 951 532333

SUN W9 256 09:45 12:40

Air KBZ (K7) Subject to change without notice

33-49,Corner of Bank Street & Maha Bandoola Garden Street, Kyauktada Tsp,Yangon, Myanmar Tel: 372977~80, 533030~39 (Airport) Fax: 372983

YANGON TO HEHO
MON K7 222 07:00 10:10 W9 119 11:00 12:10 AW 761 11:00 12:10 YH 727 11:00 12:25 6T 501 15:00 16:10 YH 731 15:00 16:25 K7 224 15:00 17:20

Yangon Airways(YH)
166, MMB Tower, Level 5, Upper Pansodan Rd, Mingalar Taungnyunt Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (+95-1) 383 100, 383 107, 700 264, Fax: 652 533.

Advertise Your Airline

392928

Air Mandalay (6T)

146, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon Tel : 501520, 525488 (Head Office) 720309, 652753,

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muse Borneo visitors

Pic: Bloomberg News/John Gittelsohn

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INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SCHEDULES
DAyS Flight
SAT 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 SUN 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517

DAyS Flight

Dep Arr

Dep Arr
07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 11:30 16:05 16:40 21:15 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 13:20 17:50 16:40 21:15

DAyS Flight

Dep Arr

DAyS Flight
THUR MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 8M 234 FRI MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 SAT MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 SUN MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 8M 234

Dep Arr
07:55 09:20 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 18:50 20:20 07:55 09:20 09:10 10:40 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 07:55 09:20 09:10 10:40 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 07:55 09:20 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 18:50 20:20

YANGON TO BANGKOK
MON 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 TUE 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 WED 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 THUR 8M 335 FD 3771 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40 07:35 09:20 08:30 10:15 09:50 11:45 10:55 12:50 16:30 18:15 16:40 18:35 17:40 19:25 19:45 21:40

BANGKOK TO YANGON
MON FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 TUE FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 WED FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 THUR FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 FRI FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 FD 3772 PG 703 TG 305 8M 332 SAT FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 SUN FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 8M 336 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 16:25 17:10 15:00 15:50 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00 07:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 09:15 10:05 10:40 11:25 15:00 15:50 16:25 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:15 20:00

YANGON TO SIEM REAP

WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401 08:50 11:25 08:50 11:25

YANGON TO KUALA LUMPUR

MON 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 TUE 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 WED 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 THU MH 741 AK 851 FRI 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 SAT 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 SUN MH 741 AK 851 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05 12:15 16:30 18:50 23:05

KAULA LUMPUR TO YANGON

MON MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 TUE MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 WED MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 THU MH 740 AK 850 FRI MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 SAT MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 SUN MH 740 AK 850 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 10:05 11:15 15:40 16:45

Deborah Belgum and guide Kres Harytono stand aboard the Orangutan Odyssey, at Camp Harapan on the Indonesian island of Borneo. female orangutan named Tutut dashed inside. She emerged with a bottle of hot sauce in her mouth and the ranger in pursuit. The ranger coaxed Tutut, who happens to be the mother of Tom, to exchange the hot sauce for a banana. The females are said to be at least four times as strong as a human. The males, like Tom, weigh as much as 136 kilograms (300 pounds) and have eight times the strength of a human. We took a prop plane from Surabaya, Java, to Pangkalanbun in Central Kalimantan, then rode an SUV for a half-hour to the port of Kumai, where stevedores shouldered bags of rice onto riverboats that carried cargo deep into Borneos jungles. We boarded the Kosasi and crossed a broad bay, entering the mouth of the Sekonyer River in the late afternoon, passing a billboard with a picture of Tom, welcoming us to his kingdom. It said his reign as dominant male began in 2006, when he dethroned a predecessor. As the sun sank, the cloudy sky turned pink and the wildlife came out. A hornbill that looked like a toucan, a storkbilled kingfisher and a huge bat called a flying fox soared above us. Proboscis monkeys with pink hooked n o se s c h a t t e r e d l i k e a quarrelling family as they clambered through trees. A monitor lizard dozed on a branch. Darkness fell. From palm trees that lined the banks, a firefly drifted onto the boat. Soon, the fireflies came in clouds, swarming and swirling like silent fireworks. We were beyond the range of our mobile phones. The only mechanical sound was our putting boat, which fell silent after the crew lashed it to the side of the river and we settled in for the night. Shielded by a tent of mosquito netting, we slept on mattresses rolled onto the deck. On the river, it was cool enough to doze comfortably without air conditioning, even though Tanjung Puting is only about 3 degrees latitude south of the equator. We awoke at dawn to the jungle din droning cicadas, chirping frogs, warbling birds, blabbering macaque monkeys. More than 40 wooden boats such as the Kosasi ply the Sekonyer River, ferrying tourists to the feeding stations for three- and four-day trips. Speedboats also roar out of Kumai to make the Camp Leakey journey in a single day. August and September make up the peak visitor season, when the tropical rains let up. More than 100 tourists at a time troop to the feeding platforms, their prattling scaring away many of the apes, according to our guide Kres Harytono, who spoke fluent English and a little Spanish. During our November trip, we never saw more than three other tourists at a time. The three feeding stations we visited were about a half-hour walk from the river. Orangutans came to greet us on the path. We fed bananas to one named Rica and her baby Roy. After Rica sucked the fruit down, she returned the empty peel to Kres or handed it to Roy. I like Rica, Kres said. Shes beautiful. Akmad was also beautiful, Galdikas wrote, and mysterious. The ape would stay away from the camp for years as she raised her babies in the wild. She would return at odd intervals, occasionally climbing into the scientists bed for comfort, like a member of the family. Bloomberg News

TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FRI 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 SAT 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 SUN 8M 335 FD 3771 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306

YANGON TO GAUNGZHOU
WED CZ 3056 THUR 8M 711 SAT CZ 3056 11:20 15:50 08:40 13:15 11:20 15:50 08:40 13:15

SUN 8M 711

YANGON TO TAIPEI
MON CI 7916 WED CI 7916 FRI CI 7916 14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25

GUANGZHOU TO YANGON
WED CZ 3055 THUR 8M 712 SAT CZ 3055 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:50 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:50

YANGON TO KUNMING
TUE CA 906 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35

WED CA 906 THUR CA 906 SAT SUN CA 906 CA 906

SUN 8M 712

TAIPEI TO YANGON
MON CI 7915 WED CI 7915 FRI CI 7915 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45

YANGON TO KOLKATA
Mon FRI IC734 IC734 13:30 16:40 13:30 16:40

KUNMING TO YANGON
TUE CA 905 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15

YANGON TO CHIANG MAI

THUR W9 9607 SUN W9 9607 12:00 13:30 12:00 13:30

WED CA 905 THUR CA 905 SAT SUN CA 905 CA 905

YANGON TO HANOI
MON VN 956 WED VN 956 FRI SAT VN 956 VN 956 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 TUE

YANGON TO SINGAPORE
MON 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 TUE 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 11:30 16:05 16:40 21:15 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 13:20 17:50 16:40 21:15 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 11:30 16:05 16:40 21:15 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 13:20 17:50 16:40 21:15 07:55 12:25 10:10 14:45 11:30 16:05 16:40 21:15

SINGAPORE TO YANGON
MON MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234 WED MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 07:55 09:20 09:10 10:40 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 07:55 09:20 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45 18:50 20:20 07:55 09:20 09:10 10:40 13:25 14:55 14:20 15:45

KOLKATA TO YANGON
Mon FRI IC733 IC728 10:00 14:55 15:50 16:40

YANGON TO CHI MINH

TUE VN 942 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10

CHIANG MAI TO YANGON

THUR W9 9608 SUN W9 9608 14:30 15:00 14:30 15:00

International Airlines
Air Asia (FD)
33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Ground Flr, Parkroyal Hotel, Yangon. Tel: 251 885, 251 886.

THUR VN 942 SUN VN 942

HANOI TO YANGON
MON VN 957 WED VN 957 FRI SAT VN 957 VN 957 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10

Bangkok Airways (PG)

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

#0305, 3rd Fl, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 255122, 255 265, Fax: 255119

Silk Air(MI)

339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, 2nd Floor, Sakura Tower, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 255 287~9 , Fax: 255 290

WED 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 THUR 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517 FRI 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517

YANGON TO PHNOM PENH

WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401 15:15 17:40 15:15 17:40

56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Building (2), corner of Pyay Rd and Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Hotel Yangon, 8 miles, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 666112, 655882.

Malaysia Airlines (MH)

335/357, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 387648, 241007 ext : 120, 121, 122 Fax : 241124

Thai Airways (TG)

#11-01, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Ygn. Tel : 255499 Fax : 255490

International
FD & AK = Air Asia TG = Thai Airways 8M = Myanmar Airways International PG = Bangkok Airways MI = Silk Air VN = Vietnam Airline MH = Malaysia Airlines CZ = China Southern CI = China Airlines CA = Air China IC = Indian Airlines Limited W9 = Air Bagan 3K = Jet Star

HO CHI MINH TO YANGON

TUE VN 943 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25

Subject to change without notice

Air India

Myanmar Airways International(8M)

Vietnam Airlines (VN)

THUR VN 943 SUN VN 943

75, Shwe Bon Thar St, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 253597~98, 254758. Fax: 248175

08-02, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Ygn. Tel : 255260, Fax: 255305

#1702, Sakura Tower 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon. Fax 255086. Tel 255066/ 255088/ 255068.

PHNOM PENH TO YANGON

WED 8M 402 SAT 8M 402 18:40 20:05 18:40 20:05

teA BreAk
June 25 - July 1, 2012
the

40
MyanMar tiMes

The art behind naming the worlds best beer

Pic: AFP

YOUR STARS
By Astrologer Aung Myin Kyaw Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18
Trying to uncover secret motivations will take up much of your time, and your psychological discoveries will breath new life into an atmosphere of silence. Your inability to make firm decisions might work for now, but in the future it could lead to disappointment in social relations and love affairs. Your family life might seem unrewarding, but you can compensate by becoming a sharing friend to all.

Pisces

Personal transformation will make your life clear and free, and will also boost your self-confidence, which is the fundamental emotional foundation necessary to encourage yourself to tackle new challenges. Changing conditions in social relationships will encourage you to uncover the facts and forces behind them. Use what you find to guide your social interactions. Mutual trust will strengthen love.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Aries

You must learn greater continuity in your affairs and direct your efforts into worthwhile endeavours. What you must develop is a more practical application for your talents. Learn to give to those you love but dont neglect those who may be less fortunate than you. Giving to others in need is an investment in your own security. You will be lucky in love.

March 21 - April 19

Taurus

The opinions of others can add value to your outlook. Listen to others, think about what they say and compare their message to your own knowledge. Never argue with old friends who might know you better than you know yourself. Using your past experiences to determine how best to communicate with others will set you on the long path to success. Let your heart look at itself before it looks to others.

April 20 - May 20

Gemini

Socialising is enjoyable to you, but overindulgence might be a warning sign that youre avoiding looking at your own life with a critical eye. You must have a dream that requires a dedicated effort to construct a fulfilling future. Intellectual creativity requires positive energy, which is also necessary for adjusting your philosophy to reflect your true nature. Losing interest in love is a beautiful challenge.

May 21 - June 20

A waitress carries glasses of beer during Kulmbacher Beer Week 2011 in Kulmbach, Germany, on July 30, 2011. By Brian Palmer EVERY February, the super-limited release of Russian River Brewing Companys Pliny the Younger sends beer lovers swarming to bars like ants to crusts of bread. All of this hubbub because the beer currently holds the No 1 ranking at the user-driven review site BeerAdvocate.com, making it the unofficial best beer in the world. Attempts to name a best beer may seem unenlightened, or even absurd, to some. After all, food and drink involve an element of personal taste chacun son got, as the French say and the greatest beer for you isnt necessarily the greatest beer for me. But this critique misses an essential point about the political structure of the beer world. Most fine comestibles, like wine, are ruled by oligarchies. A simple Google search demonstrates the point: If you search for wine rankings youll find opinions from Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator and the esteemed Robert Parker. I dont doubt that these experts have exceptionally sophisticated and sensitive palates that is, of course, the reason their opinions are supposed to count more than yours or mine. But why should a member of the ignorant, wine-swilling masses, someone who cant distinguish an unexceptional 2004 Bordeaux from the magnificent 2005 vintage, base his purchasing decisions on the opinions of someone who can? Beer lovers take a more democratic approach. If you Google beer rankings, the first hit is BeerAdvocate.com, the site that gave Pliny the Younger its fame. Although Beer Advocate takes its name from Parkers Wine Advocate, the approach is entirely different. You wont get the opinion of a single supertaster, or even a panel of experts. Its a raucous compilation of thousands of opinions from ordinary schlubs just like you. As the art critic Clement Greenberg noted [Q]uality in art is not just a matter of private experience. There is a consensus of taste. The beer world takes that consensus seriously. Ordinary beer lovers actually believe that their opinions matter, and theyre pretty much right. Professional brewers show up at home brew competitions to learn new ideas and techniques, and they read internet reviews to learn what people are saying about their latest release. The collaborative spirit runs in both directions, as professionals are expected to share their recipes with the public. Even Vinnie Cilurzo, the owner of Russian River Brewing Company, has divulged the recipe for his prized Pliny the Younger to the journal of the American Homebrewers Association. The brewers spirit of egalitarianism goes back to the late 1960s and early 1970s, the dark days of American beer. The only choice in most bars was between tastes great and less filling. Home brewing was illegal under federal law, one of the many senseless advantages the government gave to the handful of mega-breweries that dominated the market. So a cadre of dissatisfied consumers launched a beer revolution. Charlie Papazian, a physics undergraduate at the University of Virginia, gathered people to sample his home-brewed libations. Papazian knew he couldnt build a culture of connoisseurship by lecturing on the merits of noble Czech hops. Unlike wine, beer wasnt yet considered an artisanal product. So he formed clubs to help individuals discover how good beer could be by making it themselves and sharing their creations. Within a few years, thousands of people belonged to these fraternal orders of beer enthusiasm. In 1978, the feds dropped their prohibition on home brewing, and the states slowly followed. (Home brewing is still illegal or severely restricted in a few laggard states.) Papazians home brewing hordes became a grassroots movement with a sense of ownership over beer. Todays successful professional brewers emerged from that group, so theres little separation between beer lovers and beer makers. The movement wasnt just about making beer it was also about describing it, categorising it, and judging it. As of this year, more than 6000 individuals have been certified as beer judges, and the Beer Judge Certification Program cant score enough exams to keep up with annual demand. Ordinary brewers can also run for elected office to edit the style guidelines that delineate the difference between a saison and a bire de garde or a stout and a porter. If you dont agree with their decisions, you can just email the seven ordinary beer-swillers currently in charge. Good luck airing your grievances to the folks who make the AOC rules that govern winemaking in Bordeaux. Even the beverage itself is democratic. Wine competitions are essentially imbalanced, because wine is an agricultural product. Without the right soil and good weather, even the most talented vintner cant produce great wine. Beer offers competitors a level playing field. Most brewers commercial and amateur get their hops and malt from a handful of suppliers, so terroir plays a minor role in the quality of the final product. The only real wild card is water, which can always be manipulated with a little chemical know-how. If everyone starts with the same resources, the best brewer should win most of the time. The ascension of Pliny the Younger to the top of BeerAdvocate.coms list is one more piece of evidence for beers essential democracy. Until recently, a Belgian ale called Westvleteren 12 ruled the rankings. The Trappist monastery that makes the beer keeps it under tight wraps, and buying a case of Westvleteren is like being inducted into the Skull and Bones. You reserve it months in advance, then place a call to a special operator who tells you when youll be allowed to pick up your beer. You also have to provide your cars license plate number to have access to the abbey. The monastery wont let you have the beer unless you sign an agreement not to re-sell it. Anyone can drink, and opine on, Pliny the Younger. Its an egalitarian beer and thats the kind of beer that deserves the top spot on the peoples rankings. Slate

Cancer

If you can demonstrate your authenticity, then the world will recognise your efforts with financial and emotional rewards. The validity of your dreams will soon be tested when they collide with the hard edge of reality. Take the time to assess your relationship with honesty; if it passes the test, you know it can also stand the test of time.

June 22 - July 22

Leo

Some things are better left in the dreamy realms of your imagination. The most solid and stable parts of your life must become transparent and alive if you hope to reach your goals. Move beyond your memories and open yourself to a new love in which you are interested. You will find new ways to stay true to your heart, which will help you become wiser in words and deeds.

July 23 - Aug 22

Virgo

You will be loved and respected by each member of your family. Arguments and disagreements will be virtually nonexistent in your home. You can be happy in your marriage if you choose to be. Remember the rule that if you want to receive, you must first give. Make the first move yourself so you do not miss the opportunities that you deserve to have.

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Libra

Learn to listen with everything youve got: Sometimes, more than just ears are required to hear what is happening in the world around you. Dont abandon your standards for determining right from wrong. Praise is the best way to give a person your full attention. Make your spouse the most important person in your life by what you say. Develop your timing instinct.

Sept 23 - Oct 22

Scorpio

Heart-to-heart talks in a relationship are important for maintaining strong and stable love. Holding your love up to the light is a way of seeing the other as a soul in a constant state of becoming. Maintaining motivation is an integral part of achieving your personal best. Never again be at a loss for the right words in any business or social situation.

Oct 23 - Nov 21

Sagittarius

Never let activity bind your soul to moving towards perfection. Make your mind a receptacle for constructive influences, which will help you become the master of yourself and a leader of others. Understand that delusion and ignorance (moha) are the root of all pollution. Objects of the senses neither pollute nor purify the soul, but a person attached to them gets polluted.

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Capricorn

Consider your mate to be the most important person in the world. Maintain a high degree of respect for one another. Living according to a set of values that are based on humanity rather than individuality is known as the golden relationship, which you would do well to follow. Engage your brain before responding to others in your daily life. For a personal reading contact Aung Myin Kyaw, 4th Floor, 113 Thamain Bayan Road, Tamwe Township, Yangon. Tel: 0973135632, Email: williameaste@gmail.com

Dec 22 - Jan 19

Business
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Computer
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rEAL ESTATE or Landhousing investment in Myanmar. We coordinately invite Myanmar citizens or nons to cooperate with us as we will take responsibilities with our citizenship scrutiny For those who interest and want to cooperate with us may contact Saya Bryan (Engineer): 09-420-070692, Saya Htet (Engineer) :09-21500 75. AUGUST Engineering Service : Aircondition & Electrical Engineering Services (Installation, Repairing & Servicing) Add; 30, Oat Tha Phayar St, Kyaik Kasan Qt,Bahan. Tel; 09-731-10321, 586509 Email; aes.august@ googlemail.com LINUx (Server/Admin) Professional Home Tuition Teaching ph: 09-731-81642 GENErATOr: 24 hour Services. MESS Engineering. Ph: 09-73058252, 09-507-8426.

English (Basic Advance for Embassy staff/ Foreigner/ A group single / Kids + Teens / NGO INGO personal/ (Special rate for national peoples) by an Expert Tutor. (1) Home tuition available in groups or single. (2) Translation of English/ Hindi/Sanskrit/Bengali/ Nepali & Myanmar are also available. (3) Business Guide &Agency Services. (4) Partnership business welcome. Rs. Verma. B.Sc., (Bot), Yangon. (UFL-English), Yangon. Email: rsverma. maynamar@gmail.com, Ph: 09-730-42604, Add: 125, 43rd St, 5th Flr (R), Botahtaung.

For Rent
OFFICE SPACES for rent at Pearl Condominium. No Agent. Please call 0973250368.

For Sale
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Language
SPANISH Classes/ Spanish Tour Guide Trainer: Teacher Mr. Mario (MSc.), Native Speaker Group / oneto-one classes available. Contact: 09-731-61393. WHEN YOU stay in Myanmar, do you want to ask to your children to learn Myanmar language? Call: 09-5146505 (Christine) mYANmAr Language Progressive myanmar language private classes for foreigners who live in Myanmar. Private home classes are available. For details , please contact to 09-423 668 824. AFTEr SCHOOL & SUNDay Academic English and IELTS Preparation classes. Limited seats (6) only. Shwe Gone Daing, Bahan, Yangon. Teacher from the Philippines with masters degree in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and have been teaching graduate English courses in Yangon for two summers. Over 9 years of teaching experience in an internationalcommunity. Classes start on August 6. Contact Alex Dugan. Ph:09-851-6735 , Email:pinoytesol @ gmail.com FOr EmBASSY family and others : When you stay in Myanmar, do you want to ask to your children to learn Myanmar language? Call: 09-5146505 (Christine) HOmE TUTION : japanese language regular course (basic, inter) jpn going course, myanmar language for japanese. Ph: 09-420055323. LANGUAGE Proficiency (A) Effective & Scienti-fic way, (B) Intensive Class, (C) Interpreter - part time/ Full time (Under mentioned languages), (D) Hindi/ Myanmar/

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PROPERTY
HousingforRent
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Travel
NYAN Myint Thu: Car Rental Service. Ko Nyan Myint Win Kyi. Address: No.56, Bo Ywe St, Latha, Yangon. Ph: 246551, 375283. 09-645-0599, 09-213-2778.

Training
BASIC CONCEPTS and Applications of Statistics Using SPSS software : 30-6-2012 (Saturday) to 29-7-2012 (Sunday). 159, Thukha Myaing 3rd St, Ward (8), Hlaing. (Near Thukha Bus-stop on Innsein Rd.) Sat & Sun, 8:00 am to 10:30 am . 10 days ( five weeks). 25 hrs for Ks 50,000/- U Zaw Win, Ex-Lecturer, Dept. of Statistics, Yangon Institute of Economics. Research Manager at an INGO. Hp: 09-501 7691, Email: zawwineco@ gmail.com laND Survey Training: Course Contents, Types of survey, Basic Trigonometry. Angles, bearings, azimuths and coordinates. Leveling, Traversing,Topographic surveying. Setting out survey, Introduction to GPS. Terra Myanmar: 42/B, Rm-4B, New University Avenue, Bahan, Yangon, Tel: 553875,400599 Email: info@terramyanmar. com Website: www. terramyanmar.com KO zAW NGE : Guitor Shop & Training. Add : Aung Zaya 1 St, Thuwunna Zay, Yangon Thit Quarter, Thingangyun. Ph: 09-421072045.

Housing for Sale

BAHAN, Natmaut Yeiktha Lane, 0.22 Acre, RC 1 1/2 storey, Ph: 543350, 09-508-3097. No broker pls. N/DaGON, No.17, (Rose Garden) shwe pinlon, 8325 sq ft, land & building , 2RC price : 4500 lakh ph: 09-503-5522.

Want To Buy
USED Laptop, Notebook, Netbook, MacbookPro, Macbook Air, Samsung Galaxy Tablet, External Hardisk, External R/W, Used Phone Nokia Blackberry Motorola LG HTC Sony Ericsson Samsung Galaxy S2 Galaxy Note Galaxy Nexus, Huawei C8500 C8600 C8800 C8810 Ipod Touch 4G Iphone 3gs iphone 4, 4s handset Ipad Ipad2 New Ipad. Ph: 09-517-8391, 01376420 USED PhONE Nokia Blackberry Motorola LG HTC Sony Ericsson Samsung Galaxy S2 Galaxy Note Galaxy Nexus, Huawei C8500 C8600 C8800 C8820 Ipod Touch 4G Iphone 3gs iphone 4, 4s handset Ipad Ipad2 New Ipad Used Laptop, Notebook, Netbook, MacbookPro, Macbook Air, Samsung Galaxy Tablet, External Hardisk, External R/W Ph:-376427, 376420 aDSl, WiMax, McWill Contact : 245 415.

For Sale/Hire
ISUzU Trooper (1999 model) Left Hand Drive, 4X4. Ph: 09-500-9450 General NYOON Book Dealing: Various kinds of Books regarding Business Management, Business & Investing, Accounting, Briefcase Series, Interview skills, English Language can be available at Innwa Book Store, A Yone Thit Book Store, TAB Book Centre (Taw Win Centre), Yar Pyae (Mandalay) Book Store & Tun Oo (Mandalay) Book Store: 214, 4th Flr, Corner of Anawrahta Road & 32nd St, Pabedan, Yangon. Email: nyoon. bookdealing @gmail. com. Ph: 386693, 09504-6769. CLArION International - Sandar@Sonia : Managing Partner : Ph:

Expert Service
HOTEL Management, Consultants, Available Please contact : 09512-3260 KAYAH Pin Min (Since 1967) (Washing, Bleaching and Dyeing) Our Laundry Services established since 1967, which can be made Washing, Bleaching and Dyeing with fully satisfaction and fair price for Hotel, Motel, Inn, Guest House and Restaurants also. Pls call us 09-731-31387. No.621, Khay Mar Thi Rd, Za Myin Zwe ward, North Okkalapa, Yangon. IOLAr Translation Service Phone: 09 4200 31866 / 01 - 229 301 Email: iolar.translation @ gmail.com .

Education
IGCSE, Secondary 2,3,4 Physics, Mathematics B & Pure Mathematics, Practice with 15 years old questions. Near Hledan Sein Gay Har. Ph: 09-4500-25213, 09858-1761. WOUlD yOU like to apply for scholarships? College admission essay and personal statement writing. U Thu Ya - 09506-6913

BAHAN : New University Avenue Lane, Condo, 7 Flr, 1500 Sqft , Fully Furnished, Fully Furniture, 3 A/C, 1 MBR, 2 SBR ,1PH, 6.5 Lakhs, (Suitable to Rent for Foreigner), Ph:09-43200669 BAHAN: Golden Valley, 2 Story Building, Fully Furnished, Fully Furniture, 2MB, 2SB, Ph, A/C, Good Neighborhood, 25 Lakhs, Foreigners welcome. Ph: 09-432-00669 BAHAN,(1)0.5 acre land, 1 & half storey, 2 MBR, Ph line, 5 Aircons, 2 Single Rm, Generator, Nice Garden, Fully Furnished, US$ 3500 per month. (2) Inya Rd, 0.45 acre land, 11 Aircons, 3 Storey new house, Nice Garden, 5 MBR, 3 BR, US$ 8500 per month, (3) Thanlwin Rd, 0.23 acre land, 3 Storey new house, Ph line, semi furnished, 5 MBR, nice lawn, US$ 8000 per months, Ph: 09-513-7670 NOrTh DaGON, Shwe Pin lone Housing, Good Estate, 80' x 80', 2 MB, 2SB, Without Furniture, Fully Furnished Good neighborhood, near Pinlone hospital, Foreigner welcome 4.5 Lakhs, Ph: 09432-00669 or email

HLAING , Near Yangon Insein Rd For more information K Khaing Kyaw : 09-518-2894 LASHIO : Ward 12, 2Acres Land including the main house and 2storey building. In downtown and Very Good place for business. Price: negotiable. Ph: 09-517-1377, 09-5158738 NayPyIDaW, 15 acres of land near Naypyidaw Highway 20 miles. Ph: 09-512-3186.

Rent / Sale
BAHAN, Moe Myint San Condo, 2400 sqft, 2 MB, 1 BR, newly apartment f.f or no furn. 3 A/C, Lift, 15 Lakhs for rent, 3000 Lakhs for sale. Owner Maureen : 09- 518-8320. No agents pls.

Want to Hire
rESIDENCE needed (independent house) Three-four bed rooms with attached baths, a living room with a bath room attached,dining kitchen and a maids room. Within 1 or 2 kilometers of Eyes Hospital (Natmauk Yeiktha Road). Pls contact9:30am~5:30pm. Ph: 545884

UrGENTly rEQUIrED
Schenker Thai ltd., yangon Branch, International Freight Forwarder and Logistics Company URGENTLY require for the below positions. 1. assistant Manager (Sales/Marketing) (1) Post Male/Female 2. Coordinator (1) Post Male Interested candidates should apply to #59(A), U Lun Maung St., 7 Mile, Mayangon Tsp., Yangon. Tel: 651 250, 667 686, 666 646, Email: tun.myint@dbschenker.com, yi-yi.thwin@dbschenker.com, aung-kyaw.soethu@dbschenker.com

Employment
INGO Position
WOrlD VISION Myanmar is seeking (1) Protection Specialist: University Bachelor Degree in a appropriate discipline & academic background in Law or Human Rights is desirable. 3 years experience in community development. Must have good understanding of Protection/ Child Protection and Gender & Disability. Must have good interpersonal, communication, facilitation & leadership skills. Must have good verbal & written English skills. Good knowledge in Microsoft Office . (2) Design, Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist: Bachelor Univesity Degree in any discipline. BachelorDegreein Social Science or Computer Studies is desirable. 3 years of progressive experience in programme/ project monitoring & evaluation. Report writing skills in English and also teaching and training experiences are essential. Competent in use of Microsoft Office Word, Excel & PowerPoint. Good command of Myanmar & English. Pls submit resume (clearly identify the post you apply) by post to HR Department, World Vision Myanmar or in person to application drop-box at 18, Shin Saw Pu Rd, Ahlone, Sanchaung PO or send to myajobapps @wvi. org not later than July 4, 2012. mALTESEr Int'l is looking for (1) hIV Manager - 1 Post in Pang Kham, Wa Special Region 2, Northern Shan State & Mong Lar, Special Region 4, Eastern Shan State : Qualified medical doctor (SAMA) with strong work experience (minimum 4 years) in clinical / managementexperience in HIV / AIDS & STIs programmes. Excellent writing, communication & reporting skills. Excel-lent knowledge of English & Myanmar. (2) laboratory Technician -1 Post in Mong Lar, Eastern Shan State: Previous experience with a humanitarian organi-zation (INGOs) in the region. Computer literate in MS Office Package. Language : Myanmar, English, Shan (or) local languages spoken in project sites. (3) Counsellor (HIV / AIDS) - 1 Post in Kyaing Tong & Tachileik, Eastern Shan State. Diploma in Nursing. 2 ~ 3 years of counselling work experience & exposures in counselling for ART, PMTCT, Paediatric HIV, & Adherence monitor-ing. Prior INGO work experience. Language: Myanmar, English & Shan. Pls submit application incl. CV, photo, copy of educatio-nal certificates, references to Malteser Int'l Country Office: #14/15 (6F), Pyi Taw Aye Yeik Thar St, Yankin, Yangon Email: hr.co. malteser@ gmail. com (or) Kyaing Tong Programme Office: 159 Airport St, Myo Thit, Kyaing Tong Email: adfi. malteser.ess@gmail. com (or) Tachileike Office: 193 Par Lain (3) St, Taw Kawt, Tachi-leike Email: adfi. malteser. sr@gmail.com. Closing date: 3rd July, 2012 mYANmAr Red Cross Society is looking for Head of Communication Division, 1 post: Myanmar Nationality. Completion of higher education, preferably a Masters degree in Comunication, Busi-ness Administration, Internal relations or similar. Superior communication skills in English (both oral and written) & Myanmar launguages are essential. Good Know-ledge of information technology including publication & presen-tation software. Acade-mic background in journalism, literature, pedagogic studies or a relevant field of Communication/public Relations will be an asset. Pls submit a letter of application letter with a recent photo, resume, & related necessary testimonials to U Khin Maung Hla, Executive Director, Myanmar Red Cross Society, Nay Pyi Taw, mrschrrecruitment @ gmail.com MEDECINS du Monde (MDM) is looking for Field Nurse - 2 posts: (diploma, degree, specific certificates) Nursing Diploma or midwife. B.N.Sc or degree in Public Health (Health Assistant). Interested & qualified applications should submit CV & a cover letter to MDM Country Coordination Office: 47-B, Po Sein St, Bahan, Yangon. Ph: 542830, Email: hr. mdmmyanmar@gmail. com WELTHUNGErHILFE Myanmar Deutsche Welthungerhilfe (formerly German Agro Action/ GAA) is looking for hr Manager for our country office in Yangon : University degree in human resources management, public administration,industrial psychology or other related field. At least 3 years practical working experience in human resource management. Past working experience with INGO and/or int'l organization is an asset. Very good communication and interpersonal skills. Excellent knowledge in English (written & spoken). Very good skills in computer operation (MS office package). Pls send application to: Welthungerhilfe - HR Manager: 29(A),Thirimingalar Avenue, Yankin. Ph: 662908 Email: whh.hrm@ gmail. com, co. mmr. ygn. hr@ welthungerhilfe.de WELTHUNGErHILFE Myanmar Deutsche Welthungerhilfe (formerly German Agro Action/ GAA) is looking for Night Guard for the country office in Yangon : Matriculation passed/ secondary Education. 1 year experience as a night guard. Prepare to work had with flexible working hours. Reliable & required to be honest. Pls send application to: Welthungerhilfe - HR Manager : 29(A), Thirimingalar Avenue, Yankin. Ph: 662908 Email:whh.hrm@gmail. com mYANmAr Red Cross Society is recruiting (1) Branch Development Officer (MRCS-ICRS Branch Capacity Building Program) - 1 post : Any Graduate. 3 years experience. Experience of working as a volunteer or staff at least 3 years in Red Cross Movement. Good communications,mobilizations, coaching, mentoring, facilitation & training skills. Effective English language & computer skills. (2)Senior Admin Assistant - 1 post: University Graduate. 1 year experience in a project management & administration. Proven computer skills (MS word, Excel, Page Maker, Power Point) in both Myanmar & English. Strong Interpersonal communica- tion skill. Able to travel project sites Pls submit a letter of application, relevant documents & CV, Copy of Recom-mendation letter from Township Police station, Copy of Labor Registration Card, Copy of good health certifi-cate from Township Health centre & one passport photo (Cover letter & CV documents only need to be sent via e-mail to mrschrrecruitment@ gmail. com) U Khin Maung Hla, Executive Director, Myanmar Red Cross Society, Nay Pyi Taw before 29th June 2012. SOlIDarITES Int'l (SI) is looking for Deputy administrative & Finance Manager in Bhamo, Kachin State: University level or equivalent in accounting/ management/ administration. 1 years experience in a similar position with NGO. Excellent knowledge of word & excel, knowledge of accounting software SAGA & HR software HOMERE is a plus. Knowledge of logistics producures. Fluent spoken & written English and Myanmar. Good writing & communication skills. Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references) by email to : sol. ygn. hr@ gmail. com. Clos-ing date: 30 June 2012. items, metals & correlated areas ) - M/F 1 post . Key require-ments for (1) & (2) : Experienced, self starter, market know-ledge, motivated, willing to travel, Qualification:Graduate or M.B.A. Good pay. Should be able to communicate well in English. Pls submit the resume along with relevant documents to sandarstar@gmail.com or call 09-512-4850. THE KMA Hotel Group is urgently looking for (1) Marketing Manager - 1 post. Graduate, 2 or 3 years experience (preferable within the hospitability industry) as Marketing Manager. Proficiency in computer skills. Fluent in spoken/ written Myanmar & English. (2) reserva-tion Officer - 1 post. Graduate, 2 years experience. Proficien-cy in computer skills. (3) Graphic artist 1 post : Graduate, 3 years experience. Must be familiar with the designing soffware. Under-stand the principles of graphic design. Pls submit application with a resume to the HR Department of KMA Hotels Group Office at Sayar San Plaza at the corner of Sayarsan Rd & New University Avenue Rd, Ph: 401480~1. WE are seeking for the following candidates. Graduate (Economics, Finance, Business and related degrees preferred). 3-5 years professional experience (Market research, Banking, Accounting, Sales and Marketing & other related fields). Fluency in Myanmar & English (4 skills). Competitive pay. We are a Myanmar based investment firm and focused on identifying investment projects in a number of sectors. The person who interested can apply by sending CV to: noble.yga@ gmail. com WE are seeking two local English Teachers for part time hours. Candidates must be experienced teaching 4 skills and Business English to different levels. Course materials provided. Pls send C.V tobig.daz.s@ gmail.com DB Schenker (Thai) Ltd, Yangon Office is seeking (1) One Assistant Manager (Sales & Marketing) with following qualifica-tions: Male or Female. Degree Holder from any University (preferably related field). Sound & Good knowledge on freight forwarding field. Ability to observe and adhere on protocol. Computer knowledge is a must. Good command in English knowledge skills. (b) One Assistant Coordinator - M Degree HolderfromanyUniversity. Good interest on freight forwardingfield.Computer knowledge is a must. Fairly good command in English language skills. Pls send CV & copies of relevant credentails to Schenker (Thai) Ltd (Yangon Office). 59-A, U Lun Maung St, 7 Mile, Pyay Rd, Mayangone, Yangon (or) Interested candidates can also send their application together with copies relevant credentials via0 e-mail to: Tun Myint - tun.myint@ dbschenker. com and Yi Yi Thwin - yi-yi.thwin@ dbschenker.com within 7 days. rEQUIrED Native English Teacher, Part time or Full time. Ph: 09504-1653. WaNTED a driver English speaking, non alcoholic, no betel quid eater, honest and quiet in Yangon. Contact; 09-439-33844 SmArT Group of Companies is seeking (1) Project Coordinator - M 3 posts : Bachelor Degree. Computer literate (MS office, email & internet). Fluent in English (speaking, writing & reading) (Foreign language is a plus advantage). (2) Secretary to President - F 1 Post : Bachelor Degree or Master Degree holder (Prefer English major or abroad education). Fluent in English (writing & reading). 2 years experience in Secretary field & abroad working experience. (3) Invoicing Manager - F 1 Post : B.Com or Diploma in Accounting (LCCI Level 3). Good in English (reading/ writing). (4) Assistant Accountant F 1 Post : Age under 35. B.Com or LCCI Level 2 or 3. Must Chinese speaking (4 skills preferred). 2 years experience. (5) Operation assistant M 1 Post: Any Degree with F & B background or Diploma in Hospita-lity & Management. Fluent in English (reading/writing). 1 year experience. (6) Driver M 2 posts : Must have driving license (black or red). 1 or 2 years experience. Pls send CV, 2 passport photos, copy of NRC card, academic transcripts (copy) & testimonial documents to City Bank Building 4th Flr, Banyardala Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt , Yangon within 2 weeks. SUmmIT PArKVIEW Hotel is seeking (1). Income auditor - F 1 Post : 3 years experience in Hotel accounting. B.Com / Graduated in any discipline & LCCI Level III. ComputerliterateinMicros Fidelio (FO) System. F&B outlet POS System, Microsoft words & excel. Fluent in English (written/ spoken) (2). Health Club Instructor - M (1) Post : Graduate in any discipline. 1 year experience. Good communication skills. Proficiency in English. (3). receptionist - M/F 2 posts: Age under 25, Must have good personality. Proficiency in English. Good communication skills. Computer literate. (4). Porter/Driver - M 2 Posts: 1 year in related field is more preferable. Good communication skills. Good ability to speak in English. (5). room Attendants - M/F 2 Posts : Must have good communication skills. Room services Experience in Hotel is more preferable. (6). PA Attendants/ General Worker - M/F 2 Posts: Must have good communication skills. PA services Experience in Hotel is more preferable. Pls submit an application letter, C.V with a recent photo, copies of NRC & Labour registration card, Educational certificate and others testimonials to HR Department not Later than 7 July, 2012. PrESTIGIOUS Bordeaux French wine (VEYRET LATOUR) is looking for represen-tation in Myanmar; A distribution Company importing beverages or food items willing to develop a commercial network in Myanmar and especially Yangon. An Individual (Male or Female), good presen-tation, fluent in English, familiar with hotels, restaurants, diplomatic world, clubs & important Companies. Knowing wine would be appreci-ated, but a full training will be provided. To send application or contact : dsavariau@ gmail.com SAIL McCann-Erickson Ltd A joint venture of local and international advertising company is looking for young executives to be trained in media & advertising agency. Candidates shall speak and write English with computer knowledge of Power Point, Word and Excel. SAIL will train the new executive for client service & media. Those who have experience in service industry like hotel and tourism will be a plus. Pls send resume to : 790, Bogyoke Rd & Wadan Rd corner, Danathiha Center, Suite 403, Landmadaw, Yangon. VISION INTErIOrS renowned internationally, is starting its operations in Yangon & require eligible and efficient candidate for each of the following post: (1). Draftsmen: Should have min. 5 years of experience in both residential & commercial designs, must be well versed with Auto-Cad / 3D Max, can draft/ sketch designs manually, responsibi-lities include site visits & supervision. * Must speak, read & write English fluently. (2). Carpenter: Should have min. 10 years of experience in carpentry, musthaveateamofskilled labor.(3). Contractor Cum Site Supervisor: should have min. 5 years experience in the required field, must have a technical knowledge and good network among co-workers: civil engineers, painters, electricians, masons etc. Eligible applicants must send in their CV to visioninteriors@ gmail. com or contact 09-420087374 during office hours (10AM 6PM, Mon-Sat) EDUlINk Australia is currently recruiting more English language teachers. If you know of any teachers with a CELTA or TEFL who are native speakers of English and would like to teach in Yangon, pls ask them to send an email to: info@ edulinkaustralia. com with the subject: Potential English language teacher. TEACHErS of English/ Chinese: BA/ MA (English/ Chinese), BEd. / MEd.- Must be fluent and proficient in language. Any interest-ed degree holders who are proficient in English/ Chinese will be considered too. Specialisation in Early Years Teaching in Child Psychology & Methodo-logy. Have an in-depth knowledge & under-standing of Early years Education. 1 year experience in teaching early years. Valid certificate for Early years teachers training. Age under 40. Salary: Negotiable. Apply with C.V & one recent photo, attached with relevant certificates. P.O. Box 451 HrOIzON Intl Education Center is seeking: (1) Teachers - F : Age 20 ~ 35. M.A (English) or B.A (English). 2 years experience in teaching field. Must be good in English. (2) Assistant teachers - F : Age 18 ~ 35. Any graduate. Must be good in English. (3) Secretary - F : Age 20 ~ 30. Any Graduate. Must be proficient in English. Has basic accounting knowledge. Good letter writing skill. (4) Marketing Execut-ive - F : Age 20 ~ 30. Any Graduate. Strong knowledge & good experience in related field. Must be proficient in English. (5) Nurse aid - F 1 post : Age 18 ~ 35. Certificate or diploma in related field. Good command of English. (6) Child-care - F 4 posts : Age 18 ~ 25. Pass matriculat-ion exam. Pls submit within 2 weeks with a cover letter, a resume/ CV, a copy of relevant Diploma (certificate) & a current photo to Horizontal (Po Sein Campus). 5/A, Po Sein Rd, Bahan.Ph: 548452. BlUE BIrD Hotel (Bagan) Carrier Opportunity Executive Chef - M Front Office Supervisor - F Guest Service Officer - F Engineering Staff - M/F F&B Supervisor - M/F admin Purchasing - M Work place is in Bagan. Pls contact us with your CV to : Rm 907, FMI Centre. Pabedan. Bogyoke Aung San Rd . Ph: 248060, 09-505-2595 lEGENDary Myanmar Co., Ltd. (1) Office Staff (Export/ Import) - F 2 Posts. (2) Tour Operator (Travel & Tours) - F 1 post. (3) Office Staff (Travel & Tours) - F 2 posts: 1 year experience in Office. All applicants must be University Graduate, Spoken & written English, must have excellent interper-sonal skill & good computer knowledge. Pls apply CV with one recent photo, other certificate NRC copy, Labour registration card, Police recom-mendation letter to : 9, Rm(A-4), 3rd Flr, Kyaung St, Myaynigone, San-chaung . Ph: 523653, 516795 within 2 weeks. WE welcome applicat-ions from motivated people for the following immediate vacancies: Education Officer/ Customer Services Officer, Secretary, Marketing Executive/ assistant, accounts Officer, Course/ Teaching Assistant, Admin Assistant, receptionist, Graphic Designer. Pls post CV with a colour photo, expected salary, educational documents & testimonials to: Recruitment Manager, Regent Education B-13+23, Shwe Keinayee Estate, Narnattaw St, Kamaryut. (1) ASST: Accountant - F 1 post : with 1 year experience. Must be graduate with B.Com/ B.Act or LCCI Level II, III. Age must be under 30. (2) Sales Executive - M/F 3 post : with 3 years experience. Any graduate. Age 25~30. (3) Office assistant - F 1 post : Any graduate. (4) Driver - M 1 post: 5 years experience in driving at least, must pass 10th standard. For 1, 2 & 3 should have computer knowledge (word, excel, internet & email). For 2, know-ledge of English is an advantage. Pls submit CV, a recent photo & supporting documents to Rm 910 (H), La Pyayt Wun Plaza, Dagon Tsp, Ph: 382535, 376462 Closing date: 30.6.12. SILVErSONG Tourism Co.,Ltd. is seeking Tour Operation Manager (Sale) M/F any graduated. Preferable degree or diploma related to the post. Experience 3 years above in Tourism field. Age 30 to 40 years. Excellent command of the English language both writing and verbal communication skills. Good Management & Interpersonal skills (2) Tour Operation Executive - M/F : Any graduated. Age about 25 years. Able to speak and write good English. Computer literate (Microsoft Excel, Word, Pagemarker) (3) Tour Guide(English/Korean/ French/ Italian) - Any graduated. 3 years & above experience in Tourism field. Preferable degree or Diploma related to the post . Pls send CV with copy of certificates, NRC card, labor registration & 2 ID photos to 18/4B,U Tun Lin Chan St, Hledan Kamayut, Ph- 500027, 504911, talenthighway @gmail.comthe Closing date: 30.6 2012. UNIqUE Innovative Trading Co., Ltd is looking for dynamic leaders to support our challenging market in Myanmar to join our office in Yangon as positions belows. (1) Sales Executive - M 2 posts (Sales & Marketing). (2) Sales Executive - M 1 post (Sales & Service). Qualificat-ions: Any Graduate. Age 25 ~ 35 years. More than 3 year experience in sales/ Marketing position with internatio-nal companies. Pls send an application letter along with a current CV, to B5/9, Yadanar St, Malikha Housing, Thingan-gyun. E-mail : uit.ygn@ gmail.com. Ph: 01-8551301, 018551302. Closing date: 29 June, 2012 BErNharD SCHULTE Shipmanagement is seeking for > Container TEU 2000 - Masters, Chief Officers, Chief Engineers, 2/ENG, E/ ENG, BSN, AB, FTr , mTm,OS,C/CKInterested candidates are requested to visit personally to BSM PREMISES. Address : F/S - 1, Shwe Marlar Yeik Mon, Bayint Naung Rd, Kamaryut , 515031, 536805, HOrIzON Int'l Kindergarten is currently looking for English Native Speaker - F 2 posts: Ages 20 ~ 35. Childcare experienced. Ready to start as soon as possible. Contact mail: T.Angle (nattayaari@ gmail.com). Ph: 548452. www. horizon myanmar.com. mm HEIN THUzAr Travel need staff who speak fluent English (speaking and writing) Address : Hein Thuzar Travels & Tours : 53 (A), Moe Kaung St reet, (14) Qtr, Yan Kin, Yangon. Ph: 578370, 0920-28496, 09-430-75258 GOENka BaNDOOla Group Co., Ltd: We are looking for efficient & affluent candidates for the following posts, for a renowned multinational company operating in Yangon. (1). General Manager: Should have min.10yearsofexperience in Tractors & Agricultural Mechani-zation sector. Duties include over all operations & marketing of the products. Must be able to speak, read & write English fluently. (2). Marketing Manager: Should have min. 5 years of experience in market-ing tractors & other agricultural equipments. Applicants with experience in marketing generators, various industrial equipments & other vehicles can also apply. Must be able to speak, read & write English fluently. (3). Chief Engineer: should have min. 5 years experience in repairing & servicing of tractors & various agricultural equipments. Applicants with experience in repairing of generators & other vehicles can also apply. Must have a degree in Engineering or relevant certifications. (4). Demonstrator: Should have atleast 2 years experience in driving tractors & using agricultural imple-ments. (5). Service Executive: Should have atleast 3 years experience in service & maintence of tractors and various agricultural equipments. Applicants with experience in repairing generators can also apply. Eligible applicants must send in their CVs before 30th June 2012 to : gbg. tractors @gmail. com or contract us on Mobile : 09-420-087374

Vacancies For Part-time Teaching Posts in

(1) Civil Engineering (2) Mechanical Engineering (3) Electrical Electronic Engineering (4) Health & Social Care (5) Business (6) English Language (7) Hardware & Network Technician (8) Computing Operator

We are looking for part-time teachers who have good communication skills. English proficiency and Experience in teaching. Requirements: C.V Master Degree in relevant subjects Educational Qualifications 2 References (Last employer) Qualified candidates send applications to our office (MMB Campus - No.166, Upper Pansodan Street, Yangon). Not later than 5.7,2012. only short-lised candidates will be notified.

Job Wanted
SOCCEr and Fitness Coach : Very eager to work in Myanmar as Soccer or Fitness Coach at FCs, sports clubs and schools. Have considerable amount of experiences in Singapore & overseas. Please feel free to contact Joseph Ronald for further enquiry at josephronald@yahoo. com

Local Position
ESTaBlIShED Singapore multinational Co is seeking qualified candidate for the below position; (1).Business developmentManager - Imports (Food Stuff & correlated areas ) - M/F 1 post (2).Business developmentManager - Imports (Construction

The Essentials
EMBASSIES Australia 88, Strand Road, Yangon. tel : 251810, 251797, 251798, 251809, 246462, 246463, fax: 246159 Bangladesh 11-B, Than Lwin Road, Yangon. tel: 515275, 526144, fax: 515273, email: bdootygn@mptmail.net. mm Brazil 56, Pyay Road, 6th mile, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. tel: 507225, 507251, 507482. fax: 507483. email: Administ.yangon@ itamaraty.gov.br. Brunei 317/319, U Wizara Road, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. tel: 526985, 524285, fax: 512854 email: bruneiemb@ bruneiemb.com.mm Cambodia 25 (3B/4B), New University Avenue Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 549609, 540964, fax: 541462, email: RECYANGON @mptmail. net.mm China 1, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 221280, 221281, 224025, 224097, 221926, fax: 227019, 228319 Egypt 81, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 222886, 222887, fax: 222865, email: egye mbyangon@mptmail. net.mm France 102, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 212178, 212520, 212523, 212528, 212532, fax: 212527, email: ambaf rance. rangoun@ diplomatie.fr Germany 9, Bogyoke Aung San Museum Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 548951, 548952, fax: 548899 email: info@rangun. diplo.de India 545-547, Merchant Street, Yangon. tel: 391219, 388412, 243972, fax: 254086, 250164, 388414, email: indiaembassy @mptmail. net.mm Indonesia 100, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 254465, 254469, 229750, fax: 254468, email: kukygn @indonesia.com.mm Israel 15, Khabaung Street, Hlaing Tsp, Yangon. tel: 515115, fax: 515116, email: info@ yangon.mfa.gov.il Italy 3, Inya Myaing Road, Golden Valley, Yangon. tel: 527100, 527101, fax: 514565, email: ambyang.mail@ esteri.it Japan 100, Natmauk Road, Yangon. tel: 549644-8, 540399, 540400, 540411, 545988, fax: 549643 Embassy of the State of Kuwait Chatrium Hotel, Rm: No.416, 418, 420, 422, 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe Tsp, Tel: 544500. North Korea 77C, Shin Saw Pu Road, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. tel: 512642, 510205, fax: 510206 South Korea 97 University Avenue, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 527142-4, 515190, fax: 513286, email: myanmar@mofat.go.kr Lao A-1, Diplomatic Quarters, Tawwin Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. tel: 222482, fax: 227446, email: Laoembcab@ mptmail. net.mm Malaysia 82, Pyidaungsu Yeiktha Road, Yangon. tel: 220248, 220249, 220251, 220230, fax: 221840, email: mwkyangon@mptmail. net.mm Nepal 16, Natmauk Yeiktha, Yangon. tel: 545880, 557168, fax: 549803, email: nepemb @mptmail.net.mm Pakistan A-4, diplomatic Quarters, Pyay Road, Yangon. tel: 222881 (Chancery Exchange) fax: 221147, email: pakistan@ myanmar. com.mm Philippines 50, Sayasan Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 558149-151, fax: 558154, email: p.e. yangon@gmail.com Russian 38, Sagawa Road, Yangon. tel: 241955, 254161, fax: 241953, email: rusinmyan@mptmail .net.mm Serbia No. 114-A, Inya Road, P.O.Box No. 943Yangon. tel: 515282, 515283, fax: 504274, email: serbemb@ yangon.net.mm Singapore 238, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. tel: 559001, fax: 559002, 559922, email: singemb_ ygn@_ sgmfa. gov.sg Sri Lanka 34 Taw Win Road, Yangon. tel: 222812, fax: 221509, email: slembassy. yangon@gmail.com, info@slembyangon.org, www.slembyangon.org Thailand 94 Pyay Road, Dagon Township, Yangon. tel: 226721, 226728, 226824, fax: 221713 United Kingdom 80 Kanna Road, Yangon. tel: 370867, 380322, 371852, 371853, 256438, 370863, 370864, 370865, fax: 370866 United States of America 110, University Avenue, Kamayut Township, Yangon. tel: 536509, 535756, 538038, fax: 650306 Vietnam Building No. 72, Thanlwin Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. tel: 511305, fax: 514897, email: vnemb myr@ cybertech.net.mm Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia No.287/289, U Wisara Rd, Sanchaung Tsp. tel : 01-536153, 516952, fax : 01-516951 UNITED NATIONS ILO Liaison Officer Rm (M1212~1220), 12 Fl-A, Traders Hotel. 223, tel: 242 393, 242811. fax: 242594. IOM 12th Flr, Traders Hotel, 223, tel: 252560 ext. 5002 UNAIDS Rm: (1223~1231), 12 Fl, Traders Hotel. tel: 252361, 252362, 252498. fax: 252364. UNDCP 11-A, Malikha St, Mayangone tsp. tel: 666903, 664539. fax: 651334. UNDP 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tel: 542910-19. fax: 292739. UNFPA 6, Natmauk Rd, Bahan tsp. tel: 546029. UNHCR 287, Pyay Rd, Sanchaung tsp. tel: 524022, 524024. fax 524031. UNIAP Rm: 1202, 12 Fl, Traders Hotel.tel: 254852, 254853. UNIC 6, Natmauk St., BHN tel: 52910~19 UNICEF 14~15 Flr, Traders Hotel. P.O. Box 1435, KTDA. tel: 375527~32, fax: 375552 email: unicef.yangon@unicef. org, www.unicef.org/myanmar. UNODC 11-A, Malikha Rd., Ward 7, MYGN. tel: 666903, 660556, 660538, 660398, 664539, fax: 651334. email: fo.myanmar@unodc.org www. unodc.org./myanmar/ UNOPS Inya Lake Hotel, 3rd floor, 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 951657281~7. Fax: 657279. UNRC 6, Natmauk Rd, P.O. Box 650, TMWE tel: 542911~19, 292637 (Resident Coordinator), fax: 292739, 544531. WFP 3rd-flr, Inya Lake Hotel, 37, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 657011~6 (6-lines) Ext: 2000. WHO 12A Fl, Traders Hotel. tel:250583. ASEAN Coordinating Of. for the ASEAN Humanitarian Task Force, 79, Taw Win st, Dagon Township. Ph: 225258. FAO Myanma Agriculture Service Insein Rd, Insein. tel: 641672, 641673. fax: 641561.

General Listing
ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS
Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40 Natmauk Rd, Tarmwe. tel: 544500. fax: 544400. Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. fax: 227995. Thamada Hotel 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon. tel: 243639, 243640, 243641. Traders Hotel 223 Sule Pagoda Rd. tel: 242828. fax: 242838. Winner Inn 42, Than Lwin Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 535205, 524387. email: winnerinnmyanmar @gmail.com Yangon YMCA 263, Mahabandoola Rd, Botataung Tsp. tel: 294128, Yuzana Hotel 130, Shwegondaing Rd, Bahan Tsp, tel : 01-549600, 543367 Yuzana Garden Hotel 44, Alanpya Pagoda Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp, tel : 01-248944

ACCOUNTANTS AND CONSULTANTS

Charted Certified, Certified Public Accountants. tel: 09-5010563. drtinlatt@matglobal.com

AIR CONDITION
Chigo No. 216, 38 Street (Upper), Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 373472

No.7A, Wingabar Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : (951) 546313, 430245. 09-731-77781~4. Fax : (01) 546313. www.cloverhotel.asia. info@cloverhotel.asia Confort Inn 4, Shweli Rd, Bet: Inya Rd & U Wisara Rd, Kamaryut, tel: 525781, 526872 Golden Aye Yeik Mon Hotel 4, Padauk Lane, 4th Word, Aye Yeik Mon Housing, Hlaing. tel: 681706. Hotel Yangon No. 91/93, 8th Mile Junction, Mayangone. tel : 01-667708, 667688. Inya Lake Resort Hotel 37 Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 662866. fax: 665537. Orchid Hotel 91, Anawrahta street, Pazundaung Township, Yangon, . Tel: 399930, 704740, 293261. E-mail: orchidhotel@myanmar. com. mm.

ACCOMMODATIONHOTELS (NAy PyI TAw)

The First Air conditioning systems designed to keep you fresh all day GUNKUL Engineer supply Co., Ltd. No.437 (A), Pyay Road, Kamayut. P., O 11041 Yangon, Tel: +(95-1) 502016-18, Mandalay- Tel: 02-60933. Nay Pyi Taw- Tel: 067-420778, E-mail : sales.ac@freshaircon. com. URL: http://www. freshaircon.com General 83-91, G-F, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Kyauktada Tsp, tel : 706223, 371906

Reservation Office (Yangon) 262-264, Pyay Road, Dagon Centre, A# 03-01, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 95-1-501937, 536255, 09-520-0926.
The Oasis Hotel (Nay Pyi Taw)

ASTROLOGER
Saya Min Thoun Dara Astrologer No(2), Maha Wizaya Pagoda North Stairway, Dagon Tsp. tel: 296184

Tel: 95-67-422088, 422099

ACCOMMODATION LONG TERM

No. 205, Corner of Wadan Street & Min Ye Kyaw Swa Road, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon. Myanmar. Tel: (95-1) 212850 ~ 3, 229358 ~ 61, Fax: (95-1) 212854. info@myanmarpandahotel .com http://www. myanmarpandahotel.com Panorama Hotel 294-300, Pansodan Street, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 253077. PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 250388. fax: 252478. email: enquiry.prygn@ parkroyalhotels.com Website: parkroyalhotels. com. Savoy Hotel 129, Damazedi Rd, Kamayut tsp. tel: 526289, 526298, Seasons of Yangon Yangon Intl Airport Compound. tel: 666699. Sweet Hotel 73, Damazedi Road, San Chaung Tsp, Ph: 539152 Sedona Hotel Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin. tel: 666900. Strand Hotel 92 Strand Rd. tel: 243377. fax: 289880. Easy Expat Accommodation Specialist in Yangon. Tel: 09-730-33776. Eco-Apartment Fully Furnished Ga 21, Pearl Centre (Pearl Condo), Bahan Tsp. Tel: 557488. Espace Avenir No 523, Pyay Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 505213-222. Golden Hill Towers 24-26, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel: 558556. ghtower@ mptmail.net.mm. Marina Residence 8, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 6506 51~4. fax: 650630. MiCasa Hotel Apartments 17, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp. tel: 650933. fax: 650960. Sakura Residence 9, Inya Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel: 525001. fax: 525002. The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residence 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp. tel 951-256355 (25 lines). fax: 951-256360. email: gmer@ mptmail.net.mm, www. grandmeeyahta.com Yangon City Villa (Residence) Pyay Rd, 8 Mile Junction, MYGN, tel: 513101

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

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

Emergency Numbers
Ambulance tel: 295133. Fire tel: 191, 252011, 252022. Police emergency tel: 199. Police headquarters tel: 282541, 284764. Red Cross tel:682600, 682368 Traffic Control Branch tel:298651 Department of Post & Telecommunication tel: 591384, 591387. Immigration tel: 286434. Ministry of Education tel:545500m 562390 Ministry of Sports tel: 370604, 370605 Ministry of Communications tel: 067-407037. Myanma Post & Telecommunication (MPT) tel: 067407007. Myanma Post & Tele-communication (Accountant Dept) tel: 254563, 370768. Ministry of Foreign Affairs tel: 067-412009, 067-412344. Ministry of Health tel: 067-411358-9. Yangon City Development Committee tel: 248112. HOSPITALS Central Womens Hospital tel: 221013, 222811. Children Hospital tel: 221421, 222807 Ear, Nose & Throat Hospital tel: 543888. Naypyitaw Hospital (emergency) tel: 420096. Workers Hospital tel: 554444, 554455, 554811. Yangon Children Hospital tel: 222807, 222808, 222809. Yangon General Hospital (East) tel: 292835, 292836, 292837. Yangon General Hospital (New) tel: 384493, 384494, 384495, 379109. Yangon General Hospital (West) tel: 222860, 222861, 220416. Yangon General Hospital (YGH) tel: 256112, 256123, 281443, 256131. ELECTRICITY Power Station tel:414235 POST OFFICE General Post Office 39, Bo Aung Kyaw St. (near British Council Library). tel: 285499. INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Yangon International Airport tel: 662811. YANGON PORT Shipping (Coastal vessels) tel: 382722 RAILWAYS Railways information tel: 274027, 202175-8.

INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com

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

Lobby Bar PARKROYAL Yangon, Myanmar. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388.

mt Quick guide
June 25 - July 1, 2012
ADvERTISING
WE STarTED ThE aDVErTISING INDUSTry IN MyaNMar SINCE 1991

36
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MyanMar tiMes

Inya Day Spa 16/2, Inya Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 537907, 503375.

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

Room - 4021, 3rd Floor, Taw Win Centre. Ph: 8600111 (Ext:4021), 09-803-2581. Qi Foot Spa At Inya Lake Hotel, Yangon. Tel: +951-662866, 662857 Ext: 1725 Zen Wellness Care No.62 (A), Rm-3, Yaw Min Gyi St, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: +951-252939.

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

CONSTRUCTION

ENTERTAINMENT

GAS COOKER & COOKER HOODS

24 hours Cancer centre No. 330, Yangon International Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 218388, 218292 Fax: (951) 218389

CAFS

Zamil Steel No-5, Pyay Road, 7 miles, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: (95-1) 652502~04. Fax: (95-1) 650306. Email: zamilsteel@ zamilsteel.com.mm

Dance Lessons Mon-Fri 12:00 to 23:00. Sat-Sun 10 am to 8 pm Fun dancing Friday nights with Filipino musicians 4, U Tun Myat St, Tamwe. Tel: 01-541 550 The Uranium Dance Studio Pearl condo Bldg (C), 2nd flr, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 09731-42624, 09-514-0404.

DOMAIN
La Brasserie (International) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel : 250388. Cafe de Angel Always Pure & Fresh No.24, Baho Rd, Ahlone Tsp. tel : 703449 Opening Hour: 9 am to 11 pm

Yangon : A-3, Aung San Stadium (North East Wing), Mingalartaungnyunt Tsp. Tel : 245543, 09-730-37772. Mandalay : Room No.(B,C) (National Gas), 35th St, Btw 80th & 81st, Chanayetharzan Tsp. Tel : 09-6803505, 02 34455, 36748, 71878.

GEMS & JEWELLERIES

ARCHITECT

.biz.mm .per.mm .com.mm .org.mm

FITNESS CENTRE
Espace Avenir 523, Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Tel : 505214, 505222 FIT Club - Rm 101~3, Marina Residence, 8, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Tel : 650634, 650651 Ext:102 Parkroyal Fitness & Spa Parkroyal Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. Tel: 250388.

Architecture 3 Construction Co, Ltd. No. 154, 39th Street, Between Maha Bandoola & Anawratha Road, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon. Contact: Ma Khaing Tun Business Development 09-502-5782

La Source Beauty Spa 80(A), Inya Rd, Kamayut. tel: 512 380, 511 252. Sedona Hotel, Kabar Aye Pagoda Rd. tel: 666 900 My Way Diamond Condo, Bldg(A), Rm (G-02), Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 52717, 09 51 70528

No. (8), Panchan Tower, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 951-516891~3 sm@mtg.biz.mm, www.mtg. biz.mm, www.mmnic.biz.mm.

DUTY FREE
INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com Traders Caf Traders Hotel, Yangon. #223, Sule Pagoda Rd. Tel: 242828 ext: 6519

Natural Gems of Myanmar No. 30 (A), Pyay Road (7 mile), Mayangone Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 01-660397, 654398~9. E-mail: spgems.myanmar @gmail.com

24 hours Medical centre No. 330, Ground Flr, Yangon Intl Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. 24 hour Call Centre : (951) 218 445 Clinic : (959) 4921 8159 Office : (951) 218 446 Fax : (951) 218 389 www.leomedicare.com
Shimmering Gold Services Co., Ltd.
VICTOrY FOr LIFE

GENERATORS

BANGKOK, THAILAND

BEAUTY & MASSAGE

BATTERY

CHOCOLATE
A Little Dayspa No. 475 C, Pyi Road, Kamayut, Yangon. Tel: 09-431-28831.
ISO 9001:2008 (QMS)

Duty Free Airport Shopping Yangon International Airport Arrival/Departure Tel: 662676 (Airport) Office: 17, 2nd street, Hlaing Yadanarmon Housing, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 500143, 500144, 500145.

Mr. Betchang No.(272), Pyay Rd, DNH Tower, Rm No.(503), 5th flr, Sanchaung Tsp, Tel: 095041216 The Yangon GYM Summit Parkview Hotel 350, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 211888, 211966. Traders Health Club. Level 5, Traders Hotel Yangon#223 Sule Pagoda Rd, Tel: 951 242828 Ext: 6561

Traders Hotel, 5th Floor Tel: 242828,Ext: Coreana. Sedona Hotel, Mandalay Ground Fl. Tel: 02-36488, Ext: Coreana

Proven Technology Industry Co., Ltd. No. FS 14, Bayintnaung Rd, Shwe Sabai Yeik Mon, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 951-951-701719~20, 527667, 531030, 531041, 530694. Fax: 527667, 531030. http//www. toyobatterymyanmar.com.

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

Winning Way No. 589-592, Bo Aung Kyaw St, Yangon-Pathein highway Road. Hlaing Tharyar tsp. Tel: 951645178-182, 685199, Fax: 951-645211, 545278. e-mail: mkt-mti@ winstrategic.com.mm

VEJTHANI MYANMAR REPRESENTATIVE OFFICE No.125(C), West Shwe Gon Dine Road, Bahan Township, Yangon, Myanmar. 01-3449977. Hot Line: 09-507-1111, 01-555448, 555998. vejthani@myanmar.com.mm www.vejthani.com

HOME FURNISHING

HEALTH SERvICES
22, Pyay Rd, 9 mile, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 660769, 664363.

G-A, Ground Floor, Pearl Center, Kabaraye Pagoda Road, Yangon. Tel: 09 500 6880 Email: chocolateheaven. sale@gmail.com

FLORAL SERvICES

BOOK STORES

COLD STORAGE

ELECTRICAL

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

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

Est. 1992 in Myanmar Cold Storage Specialist, Solar Hot Water Storage Solutions. Tel: 09-504-2196, 09-73194828. E-mail: gei.ygn2@ gmail.com, glover2812@ gmail.com

Est. 1992 in Myanmar Electrical & Mechanical Contractors, Designers, Consultants. Tel: 09-504-2196, 09-73194828. E-mail: gei.ygn2@ gmail.com, glover2812@ gmail.com

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

81, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 548022, 542979, 553783, 09-8030847, 09-730-56079. Email: asiapacific. myanmar@gmail.com.

HOTEL MANAGEMENT

Hotel ManagementConsultants (Singapore) Yangon Office Tel. : 09-516-6400 Email: info@univel.com.sg Agent Office, 5th Floor, Junction Centre (Maw Tin), Lanmadaw Township, Yangon. Myanmar. Ph: 09-731-56770, 09-5117584, Fax: 01-516313, myanmarmeditour@gmail. com

LEGAL SERvICE
U Min Sein, BSc, RA, CPA.,RL Advocate of the Supreme Court 83/14 Pansodan St, Yangon. tel: 253 273. uminsein@mptmail.net.mm

Floral Service & Gift Centre 102(A), Dhamazaydi Rd, Yangon.tel: 500142 Summit Parkview Hotel, tel: 211888, 211966 ext. 173 fax: 535376.email: sandy@ sandymyanmar.com.mm.

MARINE COMMUNICATION & NAvIGATION

Acupuncture, Medicine Massage, Foot Spa Add:No,27(A),Ywa Ma Kyaung Street, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 01-511122, 526765. Piyavate Hospital (Bangkok) Myanmar Represent ative (Head office) Grand Mee Yahta Executive Residences. No.372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, PBDN. Ph: 256355, Ext: 3206. Hotline: 09-73777799. Email: piyavate@cnt. com.mm, piyavate.cnt@ gmail.com, Website: www. piyavate.com PHIH-Specialist Clinic FMI Centre (4th Floor) #380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Tsp. tel: 243 010, 243 012, 243 013

Foral Service & Gifts shop No.2, Corner of Khay Mar St & Baho Rd (Near Asia Royal Hospital), Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. email: yangonflorist@ myanmar.com.mm. Tel: 01-510406, 09-73184714.

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

Media & Advertising

FOAM SPRAY INSULATION

Foam Spray Insulation No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazuntaung Road, Pazuntaung Tsp, Yangon. Telefax : 01-203743, 09730-26245, 09-500-7681. Hot Line-09-730-30825.

FURNITURE
NatRay Co., Ltd. Rm 807, La Pyayt Wun Plaza. tel : 01-370833, 370836

24 hours Laboratory & X-ray No. 330, Ground Flr, Yangon Intl Hotel, Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: (951) 218388, (951) 218292 Fax: (951) 218389

Intuitive Design, Advertising, Interior Decoration Corporate logo/Identity/ Branding, Brochure/ Profile Booklet/ Catalogue/ Billboard, Corporate diary/ email newsletter/ annual reports, Magazine, journal advertisement and 3D presentation and detailed planning for any interior decoration works. Talk to us: (951) 430-897, 553-918 www.medialane.com.au 58B Myanma Gon Yaung Housing, Than Thu Mar Road, Tamwe, Yangon.

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June 25 - July 1, 2012
Streamline Education 24, Myasabai Rd, Parami, Myangone Tsp. tel: 662304, 09-500-6916. No. 105/107, Kha-Yae-Bin Road. between Pyi Daung Su Yeik Tha (Halpin) and Manawhari Road/Ahlone Road, Dagon Tsp. Tel/Fax: 538895, Tel: 09730-29973, 09-540-9469.
padonmar.restaurant@ gmail.com. www.myanmarrestaurantpadonmar.com

MyanMar tiMes

MARKET RESEARCH
House of Memories Piano Bar & Restaurant Myanmar Cuisine & International Food 290, U Wizara Rd, Kamaryut Tsp, Yangon. tel: 525 195, 534 242. e-mail: houseofmemories 9@gmail.com

MMRD Research BLDG C, New Mingalar Market, 10-story BLDG, 8 & 9 flr, Coner of Mill St & Banyardala Rd, Mingalar Taungnyunt Tsp. Tel: 200326, 200846, 201350. Fax: 202425.

OFFICE FURNITURE

Legendary Myanmar Intl Shipping & Logistics Co., Ltd. No-9, Rm (A-4), 3rd Flr, Kyaung St, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 516827, 523653, 516795. Mobile. 09-512-3049. Email: legandarymyr@ mptmail.net .mm www.LMSL-shipping.com

1. WASABI : No.20-B, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Yankin Tsp,(Near MiCasa), Tel; 666781,09-503-9139 2. WASABI SUSHI : Market Place by City Mart (1st Floor). Tel; 09-430-67440 Myaynigone (City Mart) Yankin Center (City Mart) Junction Mawtin (City Mart)

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

SOLAR SYSTEM
The Brightest AC CFL Bulb 21, 9th St, Lanmadaw Tsp. Ph: 212243, 216861, 216864. spsolarstation@ gmail.com. www. spsolarstation.com

SCHOOLS
INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com Phoenix Court (Chinese) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388. Royal Garden Nat Mauk Road, Kandaw Gyi Natural Park, Bahan Tsp. tel: 546202 Signature Near U Htaung Bo Round, about Bahan Tsp. tel: 546488, 543387. Summer Palace (Chinese) Restaurant Level 2, Traders Hotel, #223, Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242828. ext:6483 Target Bldg B, 1-fl, Rm F-23, Pearl condo. Bahan tsp. Tel: 09-513-5924, 09-5048750. TG Bar & Restaurant The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residences (2nd Flr), Bogyoke Aung San Rd. Tel: 385101, 256355. Horizon Intl School 25, Po Sein Road, Bahan Tsp, tel : 541085, 551795, 551796, 450396~7. fax : 543926, email : contact@horizonmyanmar. com, www.horizon.com ILBC 180, Thunandar 9th Lane, Thumingalar Housing, Thingungyung.tel: 562401.

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

Schenker (Thai) Ltd. Yangon 59 A, U Lun Maung Street. 7 Mile Pyay Road, MYGN. tel: 667686, 666646.fax: 651250. email: sche nker@mptmail.net.mm.

STEEL CONSTRUCTION

PLEASURE CRUISES
Bo Sun Pat Tower, Bldg 608, Rm 6(B), Cor of Merchant Rd & Bo Sun Pat St, PBDN Tsp. Tel: 377263, 250582, 250032, 09-511-7876, 09-862-4563. Kohaku Japanese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6231 KSS Setyone Rd, Mingalar Taung Nyunt. tel: 203320.

PEB Steel Buildings 60 (A), Halpin Road, Yangon. Tel: 01-218223, 218224. Fax: 218224. marketing@pebsteel.com. mm www.pebsteel.com.mm

SUPERMARKETS
ILBC IGCSE SCHOOL No.(34), Laydauntkan Road, Tamwe Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 542982, 545720, 549106,545736,400156 Fax: 541040 Email: info@ilbc.net.mm www.ilbcedu.com ISM Intl School W 22/24, Mya Kan Thar Housing, Hlaing Tsp. tel:530082, 530083. International School Yangon 20, Shwe Taung Kyar St, Bahan Tsp. Tel: 512793. Asia Light 106, Set Yone Rd.tel: 294074, 294083. Capital Hyper Mart 14(E), Min Nandar Road, Dawbon Tsp. Ph: 553136. City Mart (Aung San Branch) tel: 253022, 294765. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (47th St Branch) tel: 200026, 298746. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Junction 8 Branch) tel: 650778. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (FMI City Branch) tel: 682323. City Mart (Yankin Center Branch) tel: 400284. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Myaynigone Branch) tel: 510697. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Zawana Branch) tel:564532. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Shwe Mya Yar Branch) tel: 294063. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Chinatown Point Branch) tel: 215560~63. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (Junction Maw Tin Branch) tel: 218159. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) City Mart (Marketplace) tel: 523840~43. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) City Mart (78th Brahch-Mandalay) tel: 02-71467~9. (9:00 am to 10:00 pm) IKON Mart IKON Trading Co., Ltd. No.332, Pyay Rd, San Chaung P.O (11111), Yangon,

Myanmar. Tel: 95-1-535783, 527705, 501429. Fax: 95-1-527705. Email: salesikon@myanmar.com.mm Junction Mawtin Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Cor of Wadan St. Lanmadaw Tsp. Tel: Junction Square Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: Ocean Supercentre (North Point ), 9th Mile, Mayangone Tsp. Tel: 651 200, 652963. Pick n Pay Hyper Market Bldg (A,B,C), (14~16), Shwe Mya Yar Housing, Mya Yar Gone St, Mingalartaungnyunt Tsp. Tel: 206001~3, Fax: 9000199 Sein Gay Har 44, Pyay Rd, Dagon Tsp. Tel: 383812, 379823. Super 1 (Kyaikkasan) 65, Lay Daunt Kan St, Tel: 545871~73 Super 1 (Shwe Bonthar) 397, Bogyoke Aung San St, Pabedan. Tel: 250268~29 Victoria Shwe Pone Nyet Yeik Mon, Bayint Naung Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. Tel : 515136.

Moby Dick Tours Co., Ltd. Islands Safari in the Mergui Archipelago 4 Days, 6 Days, 8 Days Trips Tel: 95 1 202063, 202064 E-mail: mobydicktours@ gmail.com. Website: www. moby-dick-adventures.com

TRAvEL AGENTS

RESTAURANTS

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

24 hours open. 5, Alan Pya Phaya Rd, Dagon Tsp, inside Thamada Hotel. tel 243640, 243047, Ext: 32.

Asian Trails Tour Ltd 73 Pyay Rd, Dagon tsp. tel: 211212, 223262. fax: 211670. email: res@ asiantrails.com.mm Htoo Travels 209/c, first flr, Shwe Gonedaing Rd, Bahan. Tel: 548554, 548039. Sun Far Travels & Tours 27, Ground flr, 38th st, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 380888.

Enchanting and Romantic, a Bliss on the Lake 62 D, U Tun Nyein Road, Mayangon Tsp, Yangon The Ritz Exclusive Lounge Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Ground Floor, Tel: 544500 Ext 6243, 6244

Lunch/Dinner/Catering 555539, 536174

PAINT
No.430(A), Corner of Dhamazedi Rd & Golden Valley Rd, Building(2) Market Place (City Mart), Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 01-523840(Ext-309), 09-73208079. Black Canyon Coffee & International Thai Cuisine 330, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. Tel: 0980 21691, 395052. email: blackcanyon@ yangon. net.mm. Feel 164/168, War Tan St, Lanmadaw Tsp, Yangon, Ph: 223697, 09 511 8415, 09 50 14288

Tel. 01 665 516, 660976 Mob. 09-4210-34875 operayangon@gmail.com www.operayangon.com

Admissions Office: No. 44, Than Lwin Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 535433, 09-850-3073. Email: rviacademygn@ rvcentre.com.sg

WATER HEATERS

TOP MARINE PAINT No-410, Ground Floor, Lower Pazundaung Road, Pazundaung Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 09-851-5202

22, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel 541997. email: leplanteur@ mptmail.net.mm. http://leplanteur.net Little Tokyo Japanese Fine Dining No.168 (C), Dhamazedi Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon. Ph: 09-731-85168, 09-731-78946 Tiger Hill Chinese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6253 Traders Gourmet Corner Level 1, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel : 242828 ext : 6503 Traders Gallery Bar Level 2, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242 828. ext: 6433 Traders Lobby Lounge Level 1, Traders Hotel, #223 Sule Pagoda Road. tel: 242 828. ext: 6456 Western Park Thakhin Mya Park, Ahlone. Tel: 225143 YKKO 28, Saya San Road, Bahan Tsp. tel:01-541998

RELOCATION

95, Anawrahta Rd. Tel:296552, 293754. 336, Pyay Rd, Sanchaung Tsp. Tel: 526456. New University Avenue, 551521, 551951, 553896. U Wisara Rd, Tel: 524599, 501976.

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

Same as Rinnai Gas cooker and cooker Hood Showroom Address

Water Heater

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

WEB SERvICES

Monsoon Restaurant & Bar 85/87, Thein Byu Road, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 295224, 09-501 5653. Pansweltaw Express Cafe: 228, Ahlone Rd, Ahlone Tsp. Tel: 215363 (1)-Rm-309, 3rd flr, Ocean, East Point Shopping Center, Pazundaung Tsp. Tel: 397900 Ext: 309. (2)G-Flr, Ocean North Point Shopping Center. Tel:652959, 652960, Ext: 133. www.pansweltaw.com E-mail: pansweltaw@ myanmar.com.mm

REMOvALISTS
Italian delicatesse & Ice-cream No.150, Dhamazadi Rd, Bahan Tsp. (Monunent Book Shop) Open Daily 9:00am to 7:00pm. Italian Ice-cream, Pasta, Pizza & Bar (2) G/F, City Mart, Myaynigone Centre. tel : 508469, 508470 ext. 113 Open Daily 9:00am to 10:00pm.

Crown Worldwide Movers Ltd 790, Rm 702, 7th Flr Danathiha Centre, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Lanmadaw. Tel: 223288, 210 670, 227650. ext: 702. Fax: 229212. email: crown worldwide@mptmail.net.mm

Yangon International School Fully Accredited K-12 International Curriculum with ESL support No.117,Thumingalar Housing, Thingangyun Township, Yangon. Tel: 578171, 573149 www.yismyanmar.net Yangon International School New Early Childhood Center Pan Hlaing Golf Estate Housing & U Tun Nyo Street, Hlaing Thar Yar Township, Yangon. Tel: 687701, 687702

World-class Web Services Tailor-made design, Professional research & writing for Brochure/ Catalogue/e-Commerce website, Customised business web apps, online advertisement and anything online. Talk to us: (951) 430-897, 553-918 www.medialane.com.au 58B Myanma Gon Yaung Housing. Than Thu Mar Road, Tamwe, Yangon.

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June 25 - July 1, 2012
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Pakistans Butt released, vows to clear name

By Shahid Hashmi LAHORE, Pakistan Pakistans disgraced former captain Salman Butt returned home to a chaotic welcome on June 22 after being released from a British prison, vowing to clear his name after being jailed for spot-fixing. The 27-year-old was imprisoned for 30 months in November on charges of accepting corrupt payments during the Lords Test against England in August 2010. Butt, teammates Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer, and agent Mazhar Majeed were accused of arranging deliberate no-balls in return for money. Aamer was released in February after serving half his six-month sentence while Asif, jailed for 12 months, was freed in May. Around 200 fans including Butts father Zulfiqar gathered at Lahores international airport as Butt wearing a green shirt and jeans made his way through the airport after being cleared by Pakistans immigration authorities. Fans carried banners and chanted slogans in support of Butt. An angry Butt shouted for space before leaving but he returned 10 minutes later to talk to the media, vowing to clear his name from the spotfixing charges that derailed his career. I am happy and relieved, said Butt. I want two to three days with my family and once I do that I will hold a detailed press conference to answer all questions to clear my name from spot-fixing. Butt said he hoped his difficult days were behind him. I am thankful to all those who helped me in my difficult times and I hope that my tough days are over. I am desperate to see my second son who I have not seen since his birth, said Butt of his son, born on November 3, the day he was sentenced. The three Pakistan players were banned for at least five years by the International Cricket Council, which has ordered the Pakistan Cricket Board to rehabilitate the former stars. Butt denied he had any links to spot-fixing. I have no links with spotfixing and my only mistake was that I did not make a complaint against those who made offers. I am consulting my legal advisers and will decide on when to appeal against the ICC ban, said Butt. I want to come back as a good person and cricketer. AFP

Pakistani cricketer Salman Butt speaks to the media on his arrival in Lahore on June 22. Pic: AFP

Disabled Frenchman swims from Africa to Asia

By Kamal Taha AQABA, Jordan A Frenchman who lost all of his limbs in an accident braved hot weather and sharks on June 21 to swim across the Red Sea from Egypts Taba to Aqaba in Jordan as part of a global challenge. Using prosthetic limbs with flippers attached, Philippe Croizon, 44, left Taba at 0630 GMT and arrived in Aqaba more than five hours later at 1150 GMT. I am very happy that I have made it. It is a great feeling to swim between Africa and Asia, Croizon said. French swimmer Arnaud Chassery as well as two disabled Jordanians, Mohammad Smadi and Mohammad Sawaai, accompanied Croizon throughout the challenge. We are all sunburned. We had to drink loads of water. It was very very hot and the sun was blazing. But the sea was calm and nice, said Croizon, wearing a red-and-white keffiyeh head scarf. I think we swam 15 or 20 kilometres (nine or 12 miles). We did not swim in a straight line in order to avoid some strong currents. I wanted to prove to myself and the world that I am normal and have the ability to do what the French swimmer did, said the 44year-old, who currently works at a security firm. Sawaai was injured during an anti-terror training exercise with US troops. My dream has come true thanks to Philippe, he said. Croizon, who swam the English Channel in 2010, has set out on his aquatic journey across the globe to highlight the abilities of disabled people, and to convey a message of peace and solidarity. On May 17, he swam from Papua New Guinea to Indonesia, in the first part of a mission to complete five arduous swims between continents. He had to have all four limbs amputated after he suffered an electric shock of more than 20,000 volts in 1994 as he tried to remove a TV antenna from a roof. In July, he plans to swim between Europe and Africa by traversing the Strait of Gibraltar. And in August, he will swim between the islands of Big Diomede in Russia and Little Diomede in the United States. AFP

Indian female athlete takes gender test: officials

KOLKATA A female Indian athlete who won a gold medal at the 2006 Asian Games underwent a gender test on June 19 after she was charged with raping her former lover, who alleged she is actually a man. Pinki Pramanik, who retired in 2007, is in police custody in Kolkata after being arrested last week over allegations that she repeatedly raped her female live-in partner. When Pramanik appeared in court to be charged with rape, the magistrate ordered a panel of experts to assess her gender. A seven-member medical board conducted a medical test on Pinki Pramanik at the Barasat hospital to determine her sex, chief medical officer Sukanta Seal, who is on the board, said on June 19. Seal said the board also included two gynaecologists, two general doctors, a psychiatrist and a surgeon. Pramanik has alleged her former partner brought the rape charges after the athlete refused to give her 300,000 rupees (US$5,400). Pramanik, 26, won a team gold in the 4x400m relay at the Asian Games and a silver for the same event in the 2006 Commonwealth Games before she stopped competing the following year. She grew up as the daughter of a poor farmer in rural West Bengal state, about 140 miles (220 kilometres) from Kolkata and now works as a ticket inspector on the Indian railways. Police said Pramanik, who had lived with her partner in Kolkata for several months, will stand trial for rape, criminal assault, cheating and criminal intimidation. Gender controversies in sport are often caused by Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) when females have male physical characteristics or Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (AIS), when someone is genetically male but their genitals may appear to be those of a female. AFP

Frenchman Phillipe Croizon has his fins removed after completing his swim across the Red Sea from Egypts Taba to Aqaba in Jordan on June 21. Pic: AFP Four Jordanian boats accompanied the swimmer and Croizons team and French embassy officials were on hand to welcome him ashore. Croizon said: Obtaining authorisation from the Egyptian side was difficult. We had to sign tonnes of documents. But thank God, we have achieved our goal at this stage, proving that there is no difference between a disabled swimmer and a normal swimmer. The Red Sea is infested with more than 40 species of shark. I took part in this adventure to prove that disabled people can do anything. I have already taken part in various sports championships, said Smadi, a 39-year-old former army officer. He said he lost his left foot in 1991 to a landmine on the Jordanian-Israeli border, three years before the two countries signed a peace treaty. For Sawaai, another former army officer, who has disabilities in his feet, the swim was the dream of his life.

London approaches in Gatlins trek back from doping

By Jim Slater EUGENE, Oregon Justin Gatlins bid for an Olympic comeback eight years after winning gold and following a four-year doping ban comes down to showing the world that he is a legitimate champion after all. Gatlin has recorded the fastest 100 in the world by an American this year at 9.87 seconds from a victory last month at Doha. For me, its almost like a welcoming home party, Gatlin said June 21. I dont think anybody expected me to get this far. Just being able to come back and compete is a victory in itself. Its the first time in a long time I feel excited like a little kid again. Gatlin won 100 meters gold at Athens and 100 and 200 world titles in 2005, but he tested positive for doping and was banned from 2006-2010. Critics say he should not even have a chance for another Olympic appearance after shaming the sport. There was a point in my life when I was torn up, Gatlin said. Thats why I intend to show my detractors and naysayers that I am a legitimate athlete. I might not be one of the most charismatic guys out there, but Im one of the bravest. At 30, Gatlin sees himself as a winner just by getting in position to qualify for London by reaching one of the countrys top three. People just want to see how far the ride takes me, he said. Im a little older but also a little wiser and a little grittier. Gatlin said watching the 2008 trials and not being allowed to compete was bittersweet, but his victory at Doha the fastest 2012 time not run by Jamaican stars Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake or Asafa Powell gave him confidence. It was the victory in Doha that helped me decide Im back. It was a discovery for me, he said. It gave me a lot of incentive to shape up, run hard and leave no room for errors. Last October, Gatlin joined forces with coach Dennis Mitchell, a 1992 100 metre Olympic bronze medalist who was hit with a two-year doping ban in 1998. He has brought in a lot of mental sharpness, awareness he still has a lot of aggressiveness in him, Gatlin said. He makes slight changes here and there. He felt like I had a lot of lazy footsteps. He wanted me to have a stronger turnover. He felt there was a lot of room for improvement. Ive gone home, gotten some good training and Im ready to challenge the best in the world. Mitchell has worked to maximise Gatlins every stride. The issue is to go into Justins body and make him do what he can do, said Mitchell. I wouldnt say I had to rebuild him. I had to fortify the base. All I did was kind of sharpen him. To run the speeds these guys are running requires a lot of technical focus. Theres a lot of room for improvement but at the same time theres a lot more room for mistakes. Weve been able to reduce the chances of those mistakes. Things in these races are so minute, so precise, that theres a millisecond between success and failure. Theres a very small range between first and fourth. Were going to have to have our best time just to make the team. Doping bans and Gatlins final legacy are not used as motivating tools. We know Justin has some good and bad things going on in his past. We dont focus on that, Mitchell said. My goal is to take his dreams and try to make them real. Any other weight is unnecessary. AFP

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June 25 - July 1, 2012
or ask Bradley to surrender the belt, but that it could authorise a rematch. The Philippine boxing hero said in reaction to the ruling that he had won his controversial bout against Timothy Bradley would help restore peoples faith in the sport. I hope with this ruling the publics faith in boxing would be restored, 33-yearold Pacquiao said by phone from his home in the southern Philippines. I was not surprised by the WBO ruling. I knew that I won, so did the whole world. But that is already over and I am now focusing on the next fight. He said he and his promoter Bob Arum would discuss his next move in a Los Angeles meeting set for next week, but remained coy on who would be his next opponent. We will soon find out who I will fight next, he said, when asked if he was aiming for a rematch against US fighter Bradley. Bradley snatched Pacquiaos belt via a split decision, with two judges scoring it 115113 for the American and a third scoring it 115-113 for Pacquiao. The decision sparked outrage in the boxing-crazy Philippines and in the United States, where two senators pushed for the creation of a national boxing commission to regulate the sport. Arum questioned the competence of the judges and pressed for an inquiry from the Nevada attorney generals office. AFP

MyanMar tiMes

WBO panel calls Bradley fight in favour of Pacquiao

MANILA The World Boxing Organization (WBO) came down in favour of Manny Pacquiao in his defeat to Timothy Bradley earlier this month. The WBO on its website June 21 said all five members of a special panel it asked to review the controversial June 9 Las Vegas bout scored it in favour of Pacquiao, who lost his welterweight belt to Manning, and ending his 15-fight, sevenyear winning streak. The WBO said it could not overturn the result of the fight

Bayern in talks with exBarca boss Guardiola

BERLIN German giants Bayern Munich are reportedly in talks to sign former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola when current boss Jupp Heynckes steps down in 2013, mass circulation Bild reported on June 19. Bayerns director of football Christian Nerlinger held talks in May with Guardiolas brother Pere, who is also his advisor, on the sidelines of the Spanish Cup Final, which Barcelona won 3-0, Bild said. The world-class manager is said to have signalled his interest, the paper wrote. Guardiola, 41, delivered three Spanish league trophies, two Champions Leagues, two FIFA World Club Cups, two UEFA Supercups, three Spanish Supercups and two Spanish Cup victories in four years as coach at the Nou Camp. Heynckes has a contract running until 2013. Bild said this was perfect timing. Guardiola wants to take a year out to recharge his batteries and study. Its perfect timing ... he can then learn German at his leisure, said the paper, usually well informed on comings and goings at Bayerns Allianz Arena. AFP

German banker admits bribery in F1 case

MUNICH, Germany A former German bank boss admitted on June 20 receiving tens of millions of euros in bribes from Formula One mogul Bernie Ecclestone, breaking months of silence in the case. In a shock move, Gerhard Gribkowsky told a court in Munich, southern Germany, that the charges against him were essentially true. He stands accused of receiving nearly US$44 million ($56 million) from Ecclestone in 2006 and 2007 in connection with the sale of Formula One rights to CVC, the private equity investor which owns most of the multibillion-dollar sport. At the time, Gribkowsky was the chief risk officer for the state-owned German bank BayernLB, which had acquired the rights to Formula One in 2002. Gribkowsky was faced with 15 years behind bars if found guilty of the charges of corruption, tax evasion and embezzlement against him. Presiding judge Peter Noll had promised a lighter sentence of between seven years and 10 months and nine years if he confessed. Ecclestone faces no charges and denies having bribed Gribkowsky to make sure that Formula One was sold to CVC. In testimony in November, the Briton told the court he had paid Gribkowsky because he had little alternative, indicating the German had threatened to blackmail him. But Gribkowsky countered this version of events, saying Ecclestone had told him at a first meeting in May 2005 that the practice in Formula One is that you scratch my back and I scratch yours. He said that Ecclestone had threatened to take Formula One business away from BayernLB. A judgement in the case is expected next week. AFP

Tiger Woods walks off the 18th green after the 2010 Chevron World Challenge on December 3, 2010. Pic: AFP

Woods loses top spot in sports rich list

NEW YORK Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao, the boxers that fight fans worldwide want to see in the ring together, top the list of the 100 highest-paid athletes released by Forbes magazine on June 18. Tiger Woods, who had topped the Forbes list since 2001, fell to third with US$59.4 million, his earnings off $16 million from the previous year and by half since his peak in 2009, mostly due to lost endorsement deals after a sex scandal in 2009 and repeated injuries. Mayweather, who came top with $85 million made off two fights last year, is serving a three-month jail sentence for domestic battery in Las Vegas, having failed in a bid to serve the remainder of his time under house arrest. Boxings other superstar, Pacquiao, came second on the list at $62 million from earnings and endorsements. But the Filipino icon is still to fight Mayweather in the mega-bout that boxing fans have sought for years. Miami Heat star LeBron James ranks fourth at $53 million, the highest of 13 basketball players and on the list. Swiss tennis star Roger Federer was fifth at $52.7 million followed by NBA star Kobe Bryant at $52.3 million, US golfer Phil Mickelson at $47.8 million, English football star David Beckham of the Los Angeles Galaxy at $46 million and Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo at $42.5 million, with the top annual salary of any athlete in any league at $20 million. Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, the reigning 100- and 200-meter Olympic champion and world record-holder who figures to be a top attraction at the London Olympics, was 63rd with $20.3 million. In total, the top 100 made $2.6 billion. AFP

Gerhard Gribkowsky, former head of risk management at Bavarian bank Bayern LB, admitted receiving tens of millions of euros in bribes from Formula One mogul Bernie Ecclestone on June 20. Pic: AFP

tImESsPORt
Drogba arrival heads China football rebrand
SHANGHAI Chelsea and Ivory Coast idol Didier Drogba on June 20 sealed a two-and-a-half-year deal with Shanghai Shenhua, becoming the biggest recruit so far to Chinas ambitious Super League. Drogbas signing is sweetly timed as China looks to turn the page on its legendary corruption but its also sparked heated debate over a new wave of foreign players. The announcement ends months of speculation about the move, in which the striker will become Chinas best paid player with weekly pay of 200,000 pounds ($314,000), according to reports, and join ex-Chelsea team-mate Nicolas Anelka. Today I can inform you that I have signed with Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua FC for a two-anda-half year deal [until the end of 2014], Drogba, 34, said on his website. I will fly out to join up with the squad in July. I am looking forward to a new challenge and to experiencing a new culture, and I am excited about the new developments in the Chinese Super League, he said. He added: I hope to help promote Chinese football around the world and further improve the links between China and Africa. Just a week before Drogbas move to Shanghai Shenhua was announced, a final batch of officials and players received lengthy jail terms over the bribery and matchfixing which had plunged the sport into disarray. Until recently, Chinese football was notorious for its black whistle cheating by referees and frequent, related outbursts of crowd violence, plus the repeated failures of its national team. Now the Chinese Super League (CSL) is aiming to re-establish itself with top-dollar acquisitions like Drogba, fellow Shenhua recruit Nicolas Anelka and Guangzhou Evergrandes World Cup-winning coach, Marcello Lippi. But the emphasis on foreign players has unsettled some commentators, who say paying big money for top stars is unsustainable and will not help develop Chinese players. Chinese soccer is facing a serious polarisation. The rich become richer while the poor become poorer, former Chinese international Li Weifeng told the China Daily. Fans are happy that the Chinese league will finally have world-class players and coaches, but will there be more if these people leave one day? Zhang Lu, a keeper with Liaoning Whowin, said foreign players could help their Chinese team-mates. But he also expressed reservations. Of course more fans will be attracted. But does that mean that the CSL is a game for the rich? he said, according to the newspaper. Meanwhile some clubs criticised the mid-season move to raise the quota for foreign players, accusing Evergrande of influencing the vote. How can it [the rule] be changed in the middle of the season? Beijing Guoan general manager Gao Chao said, as reported by the China Daily. His club has already been eliminated from the AFC Champions League. The debate may intensify when China, already out of the running for the 2014 World Cup and this years Ol y m p i cs , e m bar k s on qualifying for the 2015 Asian Cup in Australia. The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has also spent big on its national team, hiring ex-Real Madrid and Spain boss Jose Antonio Camacho as manager, in a bid to improve Chinas dismal record in international competition. China have only ever reached one World Cup, in 2002, where they lost all three matches and failed to score a goal. AFP

June 25 - July 1, 2012

A worker sits in front of an under-construction stadium in Nay Pyi Taw last month. Pic: Kaung Htet

Sports Feds to move to NPT

By Aung Si Hein MOST sports federations have been told to up sticks and move to Nay Pyi Taw by the Ministry of Sports in preparation for next years SEA Games, which will be mainly held in the capital. The move is intended to benefit Myanmars contenders, helping them familiarise themselves with the newly constructed venues. The venues for each sport have been set. Each federation has to move when they feel they are ready they are not being forced to relocate, U Kyaw Zin Moe, assistant director of the sports and physical education department told The Myanmar Times. Rowing and Sepaktakraw federations have agreed to move in 2013, he added. All Myanmar Sports Federations have long been established in Yangon as the former capital and commercial hub of the country, and several federation officials have expressed their reservations that the wholesale move solely for the SEA Games could have a negative effect on the development of the sports. The taekwando federation has expressed its concern that their training practices have been adapted to their current setup, and could be disrupted by the move. Certain federations have improvised their training methods due to a lack of professional equipment, and cannot take these along to Nay Pyi Daw. It works for us to use the structure and staircase of Aung San Stadium for several of our taekwando exercises. For example, the staircases here are very suitable for jumping exercises. The new structures and environment in Nay Pyi Taw will be difficult to fit with our exercise methods, U Kyaw Than Oo a coach with the Myanmar taekwando federation said. Some federations will have to straddle moving only in part to Nyay Pyi Taw, which could have logistical problems. The equestrian federation is moving to Naypyidaw at the end of the year as the stables there are still being built. But only our selected riders and their horses will be moved while the federation will remain [in Yangon]. This is because it will be too difficult to move all our equipment to Naypyidaw, U Zaw Zaw Ye, manager of Myanmar equestrian federation said. Other federations have complained that they will have to make longer trips to reach specific training grounds from Nay Pyi Taw rather than Yangon. Myanmar rowing federation will have to train at the Paung Laung dam where the competition will be held. The accommodation prepared for us in Naypyidaw is quite far from Paung Laung dam where we are to train, U Phay Win the secretary of Myanmar rowing federation said. It will take about 45 minutes to reach there and I am worried that traveling each day by bus will tire us out. In Yangon, the lake [Inya] where we train is quite close, he said. Federations of such sports such as badminton, body building, futsal, shooting, tennis, chinlone, and wrestling are exempt from moving to Naypyidaw as their competitions will be held in Yangon, while sailing will happen at Ngwe Saung beach, Pathein.

Chinatown
By Ben White
south too. Chinatowns are always a classic place for culinary delights, and the best practice is simply to go with something if it looks good. Simply strolling along offers plenty of opportunity to sample an array of Chinese and Myanmar snacks. in front of the Chinese temple there are Chinese dumplings, fried wontons, steamed black sticky rice, semolina cakes, and for the more adventurous, deep fried crickets. A joy of Myanmars relaxed attitude to dining, is that it is perfectly acceptable to add such snacks to your meal when sat at another stall. You can even have foods like the dish of tiny fishcake parcels made and brought over to your table. hile every major city around the world boasts its own Chinatown, beyond the odd string of red lanterns and overhead signboards displaying a Chinese character or two, they would

barely resemble each other. in Yangon, the beauty of Chinatown is the heady, sensual overload of its street life, where every inch of space is taken up by a hawker as keen to sell you their innumerable paraphernalia as the person beside them is as uninterested by your tentative enquiries to the cost of that strange looking produce.

immersed in the chaos of Myanmar street trading, Chinatown has all too heartedly followed in concert. everything is out on the streets. By night Yangonites flock here in search of a feast, a drink, and the chance to while away the evening hours engaged in enthusiastic banter. Street stalls open up along the

eat along with Myanmar beer on tap. highlights are certainly the marinated pork ribs and the fish.

20th Street
Rice soup Nestled in a side street to the side of the main Chinese temple is a popular rice soup stall. A favourite for Chinese if your feeling under the weather, but equally comforting at any time, the piping hot bowls of rice soup in chicken broth come with a choice of chicken or fish, dough sticks and chives. The also have a selection of cold dishes, chicken salad, and even duck blood salad if you can stomach it although it is actually made from black bean and not duck.

main drag of Mahabandoola road, spilling into side streets, while there are plenty more to be found a block north and

19th Street
Beer & Barbecue Yangon benefits from a large contingent of Yunnanese among its Chinese, differing from more common Mandarin or Cantonese in other countries. And this shows with the plenty stalls selling barbecue and mala hin fragrant, spicy vegetable and noodle dish

typical of Yunnan. The heart of Chinatown is 19th street, the hugely popular and ever expanding run of barbecue and beer stalls that sits in the epicentre of all the madness. After skirting the repeated gestures by waiters encouraging you to sit at their respective tables, you get to pick from an array of barbecue skewers to

Cherry Mann
Latha street Somewhat incongruously situated in the heart of Chinatown, but if you fancy something different, there is an indian Muslim restaurant diagonally opposite the Chinese temple on latha street. The shop serves up excellent plates of succulently spiced mutton and chick-

en along with paratha bread and dahl soup. The dishes are

a little expensive and large, which is disappointing if you like getting carried away with ordering a whole selection.

Baw Ka
No 737 Mahabandoola Road Near the far edge of Chinatown, just before you reach lanmadaw Road is a cute little Chinese eatery that does some of the best steam ribs in gravy, noodle soup, and especially zhongzi, triangular sticky rice parcels wrapped in banana leaf

and stuffed with pork preserved egg, Chinese sausage, dried prawns. The shop is identifiable by the hanging zhongzi at the front, and its stained white tile walls and dark wooded tables give you a genuine feeling of being in China.

18th street
And if you still feel you can find space for something sweet, a nice Chinese desert to try is silken tofu in hot, sweet ginger water. This can be found in large wooden drums by the street side along Mahabandoola Road, with a particularly good one opposite 18th street. if sweet tofu seems a bit too odd then there is an excellent yoghurt stall opposite, tucked in the side street. The perfectly tangy yoghurt comes lathered in sticky sweet jaggery syrup.

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Pictures : Kaung Htet, Ko taik

Myaynigone
By Douglas Long
wards the goal of ingesting the daily allotment of required nutrients: los Angeles has its Silver lake, Paris its Saint-Germain-des-Prs, Bangkok its Thonglor, and even Sydney probably has something of the sort. veRY world-class city has its trendy neighbourhoods, chock-full of chic clothing shops where all the hepcats and chickie-babes lay down the dough for happening threads, and likewise graced with a surfeit of stupendously with it eateries where being seen is just as important as the mastication of victuals tohearts of a certain kind of traveller, and evokes joy in others: utterly local, completely devoid of Famous Tourist Sights, often crowded, sometimes gritty. its also tremendously diverse, home to a Catholic church, at least two hindu temples, several islamic community centres, a Sikh temple, and the usual collection of neighbourhood Buddhist pagodas and nat (spirit) shrines. Mercifully, the streets of Myaynigone are too narrow to accommodate cyclopean tour buses, and many shops are too narrow, and their plastic seats too small, for the comfort of

Yangon, not being a world-class city, has no such thing. it will likely take a few years before the city reaches the cosmopolitan heights of other emerging hotbeds of neo-cultural excitation in Asia, such as Shanghai, Singapore and Nay Pyi Taw. in the meantime, Yangon has Myaynigone ward in Sanchaung township, a roughly triangleshaped area bordered on the west by Pyay Road, the east by U Wisara Road, the north by hanthawaddy roundabout (where Pyay and U Wisara meet at a point) and the south by Dhammazedi Road. This is the kind of neighbourhood that strikes fear into the

Myaynigone is to plunge in and follow your senses wherever they lead. But for those who want a bit of guidance, heres a brief list of a few of the neighbourhoods more firmly established restaurants.

Seit Taing Kya

the endomorphs who can often be seen disembarking en masse from the aforementioned modes of conveyance. As far as food goes, Myaynigone is not the right destination if you are looking for burgers, pizza or gourmet French food. it is, however, a great place to walk around and sample local fare. There are a huge number of small restaurants selling Myanmar, Shan and Kachin food, as well as the usual smattering of places to drink tea or beer while sitting on low, plastic stools and enjoying a dogs-eye view of street life. At virtually every corner there are mobile barbecue and boilingpig-gut carts, and there are also several outdoor markets in the area. Perhaps the best approach to No 44 Ma Po Street This is one of the most wellknown teashops in Yangon, and most taxi drivers can take you straight there, provided you pronounce the name correctly. its particularly crowded in the morning (its closed in the evening) look for the traffic jam on the west end of narrow Ma Po Street, as hungry patrons from across Yangon converge and jockey for limited parking. The fame is justified: The mut-

Food and Beverage Special Feature

Editors: Writers:

Myo Lwin, Ben White Myo Lwin, Ben White, Douglas Long, Aye Sapay Phu, Myat May Zin, Noe Noe Aung, Shwe Yee Saw Myint, Nyein Ei Ei Htwe

Design and DTP: Ko Htay, Ko Pxyo, Khin Zaw, Zarni, Ye Htay, Tha Hlyan Photographers: Kaung Htet, Boothee, Ko Taik

Contact: myolwin@myanmartimes.com.mm

places around Yangon. Coming from the north, its first in a row of small shops that cook up a decent range of regional fare: DCountry Food (Shan and Thai), Jingpaw (Kachin) and Shin Shin lashio (Chinese Muslim).

Danuphyu Daw Saw Yee Myanmar Restaurant

No 15 Mahabawga Street Quite famous among Yangon residents, this big, clean, bright, often-crowded venue features Myanmar food for Myanmar people. its the real deal: The cooks dont scrimp on the oil, and the tastes are not sissified to conform to the delicate requirements of Western palates. Beer, fruit juices and yogurt drinks are also on the menu.

which an iron griddle is used for cooking) and hot pot (a type of Chinese food in which ingredients are added to a pot containing simmering stock). Big windows provide a fishbowl effect for passers-by who want to watch diners watching chefs frying up their meat and vegetable on the huge griddle.

Zeal Coffee Lounge and Restaurant

No 99B Myae Nu Street (Ground Floor, Lamai Condominium) This street was once home to two popular, side-by-side

barbecue shops that were booted out a few years ago by landowners who wanted to cash in on the condominium boom. On nights of one-eighth-full sickle moon, the ghosts of people enjoying

their grilled fish, marlar hinn and Tiger draught can sometimes be heard. in the world of the living, meanwhile, theres now Zeal Coffee lounge and Restaurant, with its comfy chairs, fully stocked bar and wall-mounted Tvs. virtually unknown in its first months of existence, it attained must-see status when a legendary local film director chose it as the location for a music video for hip-hop star and gangsta extraordinaire J-Me. Now people from all over the world flock here to see where the magic happened.

ton, paratha bread, lentil soup, meat-filled pauksi and local tea are all excellent.

Malkikhu Cuisine
No 68 Myaynigone Zay Street This low-key place offers very good Kachin food, including curries and noodles, using fresh ingredients. Owned by a Christian family, its closed on Sundays. There is also a branch in Kandawgyi Park.

Ke Co Teppanyaki and Hot Pot

No 12B, corner of Shankone and Myawaddy Streets This sparkling-clean restaurant is brought to you by the people behind the Shwe li Barbecue outlets on Pyay Road and Kaba Aye Pagoda Road. As the name suggests, there are two main menus here: teppanyaki (a style of Japanese food in

Tin Aye Biryani

No 36 Yadana Street Tin Aye offers the usual biryani-oriented fare, perhaps a bit less oily than some other
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By Myo Lwin with Thomas Kean and Ben White
No .1 In du

while Samurai Sushi offers a quirky, but nicely intimate experience in a bungalow just off Saya San, hidden away down a small alleyway.

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Mr Guitar
No 22 Saya San Road Mr Guitar opened 15 years ago, setting a standard for decent drinking holes. its distinctive decent from the main road by stone stairwell through an overgrown garden adds to the feel of the place, before entering the dimly lit bar itself. Red brick walls covered in graffiti show the many years that customers have been frequenting the bar. The main pull of the place has been its commitment to showcasing live bands, as well as the decent selection of drinks and food on offer. Dr Nay Myo Say, the bars owner, got the idea to open the first Mr Guitar chain restaurant back in 1994 as an under ground place on Barr street in downtown Yangon, before opening a second at Bogyoke market. he opened

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iTUATeD northeast of downtown, Saya San Road has for a long while balanced on the edge of decent places to dine out in Yangon, offering potential but without fully developing what could be. Things are starting to look quite different now, with a number of new venues opening up giving the street a new lease of life. Nestled a reasonable distance past Shwedagone in Dagon township, Saya San Street just off Kaba Aye road and heads down towards new university

avenue and Yankin centre. The street in itself is nothing special, and without a pavement to stroll along it is more suited to clientele turning up in car or taxi. Dimly lit at night, each brightly lit place draws in their respective customers, with a few places struggling to keep the parked cars from blocking the street off entirely. And while it is still lined with fair number of karaoke joints and generic pan-Asian style restaurants that make it like most other parts of town, the streets early promise was forged by a

handful of places such as Mr Guitar, 7-Up and Sein lyan, while its attraction has been raised by new places such as Acacia tea Salon. The road also boasts a decent showing of east Asian cuisine, with the newly opened Shwe Be, one of the only places to get roast duck in Yangon, opposite the solitary North Korean restaurant in town, Pyongyang Koryo. The south Korean, Dae Won Gak, is further along Saya San street,

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a third on link street in Bahan township, before deciding in 1997 to open one single spacious venue, and moved to Saya San Street. To be cost effective, we tried to decorate the restaurant with whatever was available nearby and free. We kept the brick walls so it would have

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a natural feel and unplugged-music attracted many foreigners, said Dr Nay Myo Say. But he admitted business has suffered with higher land lease rates, an inevitable part of the streets growing status.

Sein Hlyan
Saya San Road The other stalwart of the road is Sein hlyan. Named after a famous racing horse back in the 1960s, there are pictures of the shop owner posing together with the winning horse hung on the walls of the restaurant. Standing out from the other standard Myanmar restaurants, it has a down to earth feel that has seen its popularity endure, offering decent food on one side, and a lively place to drink and catch sports on the other. Sein lyan also has a live music band at night. The place made itself a name for its noodle salad, nan-gyi and mohinga, Myanmars national breakfast, but served till night.

The doeji galbi (pork ribs; K6000) is a highlight; thinly sliced, it comes with a variety of lettuce leaves and condiments. Other popular dishes at Dae Won Gak include mok sal gui (roasted pork neck meat; K5500), bul go gi jeon gol (sliced and seasoned Australian beef; K12,000) and chingiz khan (seafood hot pot with vegetables and sauces; K10,000). The gaori jim (steamed stingray) also looks promising. While it might sound expensive it seems about average for a decent South Korean restaurant. The meat is high quality and all meals are delivered with a tray of side dishes, including kimchi, mushroom salad, a chopped Korean-style pancake, and sliced garlic and chilli, as well as a small cup of ginseng tea.

in your introduction to the culture of the Democratic Peoples Republic.

Dae Won Gak

No 17 Saya San Road high-quality South Korean fare ranging from K5000 to K15,000. The pleasant and bright interior features a number of comfy booths for four to six people, as well as several partitioned sections for larger groups.

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Acacia tea salon

No 52 Saya San Road One of the roads latest offering certainly raises the stakes to make Saya San a key culinary attraction. housed in an elegantly designed colonial style house, replete with an adjacent glass-house bakery, and garden seating, the biggest draw would be the chance to sit in grandiose exclusion if it werent for the enticing display of elaborate deserts that greet you in the lobby. For all its surface attraction, there is the sense it is still a work in progress, with the decoration a little bare in places, while the understandably high prices dont fully match the quality of the food on offer. When i first walked into Acacia, i was

Pyongyang Koryo
A-5 Saya San Road Myanmars very own North Korean restaurant, awaits the intrepid foodie. Along with the requisite kimchi and soju, Koryo offers an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza, with its waitresses-cum-singers performing an array of highlights such as robot dances, renditions of Thingyan classics and, of course, Celine Dion. Unlike most South Korean restaurants, the dishes at Koryo do not come with a vast number of side dishes and assorted pickled items. everything needs to be ordered from the rather extensive and expensive menu, which tops out at K45,000 for a dish of sea cucumber. The fried kimchi-stuffed chicken (K8000), beef and jinchae sauce (K8500) and white kimchi (K4000) match up nicely with a bottle of Pyongyang soju (K8000). But, lets face it; the food is a secondary concern at Koryo, a mere footnote

impressed by the color combination and interior decoration, Win Myat Myat, a Myanmar student studying in the United States, told The Myanmar Times.

i would say the food was only average so i kind of felt it wasnt particularly worth the price, said Ma Win Myat Myat.

Pictures : Ko taik

Hledan Junction
By Noe Noe Aung
generation. Wandering hledan offers a theoretical safari of veritable delights, with a myriad of side streets that demand to be explored.

iTh its proximity to Yangon University, filling the area with students, hledan has become one of Yangons liveliest areas to eat out. Centred around hledan junction, the area boasts a heady mix of trendsetting fashion outlets, all manner of street side delights, and Myanmar teashops made for a new

Grilled Fish hledan Road

One of the big attractions to hledan is seeing the WhAT street taken over by a run of grilled fish stalls. From 6pm hoards of students gather in groups, sat on knee-high stools, and packed into the hotly fought over spaces designated to each stall. The sight of so many people thronged together in appreciation of grilled fish gives an immediate picture of the vibrancy of hledans micro-culture. The stalls also offer sumptuous Shan-Chinese mala hin and Thai-style papaya salad.

Fried ice-cream, strawberry smoothie and pie Caf Bisou insein Road
Aside from the culinary delicacies of Barbecue and grilled fish, hledan offers plenty of places to sit back and relax over a cold drink and sweet desserts. Caf Bisou on the Yangon-insein road, facing YKKO kyay-oh, hledan branch is an excellent choice. Situated above a flower shop, it boasts colourful floral-inspired design, and gives you an unrivalled view of the bustling crowds below. Their menu has a selection of western foods such as pizza, burgers, pies, as well as cold drinks. Their strawberry smoothie a mix of yogurt and strawberry juice has a nice balance of sour and sweet. Fried vanilla ice-cream is also great, with the crispy outer layer giving a new texture to the classic ice-cream.

Hot tea, black coffee and light food Shwe teashop U Tun lin yard
even when the crowds die down after feasting out on the stalls along the main streets, hledan doesnt stop. Turning into side streets such as U Tun lin yard street, kids head for more modern designed teashops than the classic street-corner haunts associated with Myanmar. Shwe certainly doesnt catch the eye as a Myanmar teashop. Once you pass through the entrance, you are confronted with a large open space with artificial waterfall, coconut tree, green grass and colourful tables and chairs. A favourite hangout, it one of the many places you can get tea, coffee, cold drinks and, of course, some food untill 11 pm.

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Yay-mont, Mont Thaing Chone and chicken-skin salad insein Road

hledans food offerings dont seem to stop attracting people, no matter what time of night. For a good distance along insein Road, there is hardly room to move for all the snack stalls, selling everything from trendy South Korean snacks or dimsum to more traditional Myanmar fare. Yay mont , a traditional snack made of rice powder and water, is a favourite for Myanmar. While Mont Thaing Chone another traditional snack made of egg, rice powder and coconut is equally as tasty. Myanmar traditional snacks are not expensive, giving extra incentive to try everything on show. if you fancy testing yourself, and willing to wait in the long queue of eager customers, chicken-skin salad is a local delight. its mix of spicy chili and sour lemon, with the chicken skin is a mouth-watering dish.

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Pork and Barbecue The Prome Pyay Road

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The Prome restaurant sits beside the Yangon-insein Road, offering a menu of shell-less crab, eel with butter and pork-neck salad, frog, sparrow and pig-tail for those with a taste for the unordinary. if this is a step too far for many, they also have barbecued pork skewers. The meat is succulent, benefiting from being steamed first, and then coated in a moorish sweet sauce.

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Adverts drive vitamin supplement popularity

By Aye Sapay Phyu
he increasing use of vitamin supplements as a dietary supplement is often being driven by advertisements rather than direct recommendation from doctors, and can cause negative effects, say health experts. A retired physician said that advertisements of some vitamin supplements by certain medical suppliers are very good at attracting consumers to buy their products, and people should be aware of that. he said that vitamins and minerals are a fundamental need for a healthy life on a daily basis, but the main resources are vegetables, fruits, fishes and dairy products. if you eat enough vegetables, fish - which is cooked in a proper way - regularly, you dont need to take vitamin supplements. instead, vitamin supplements are essential for people who are recovering from illness and for those who have no time to prepare decent

Concerns growing with MSG over-use

By Shwe Yee Saw Myint
MONOSODiUM glutamate (MSG) has risen to become a household staple in Myanmar, but increasing awareness of the dangers of overuse is helping to reduce such over-reliance. i used to use traditional ingredients like dried prawn, fish sauce and fish paste before MSG appeared in Myanmar. Today i use a 50 gram pack of MSG every three days in my home, said housewife Daw Khin May. A big reason for the conversion to MSG is price and the fact that it is available anywhere, despite being banned by the government since 2000. i spend K100 on a 50 gram packet of MSG. it is cheaper than dry prawn and fish sauce; i even heard that some people use MSG to make dried prawn and fish sauce now. i know using MSG is not healthy, so i now try to reduce the amount of MSG i use, she said. Dr Sett Paing lynn Khant, a health columnist, told The Myanmar Times that MSG can aid obesity, cardiac problems such as extreme drops in blood pressure, a rapid heartbeat and hypertension, as well as neurological problems, reproductive disorders, and can affect the brain system. Myanmar people eat a lot of very salty foods, such as fish paste and dried fish and now also use a lot of MSG. Mohinga shops in Yangon often compete with each other to see how many packets of MSG they can use, he said. The main problem is the overuse of MSG in an already salty diet, due to a lack of public awareness of the possible health consequences, he said. Some restaurants have begun to advertise themselves as non-MSG, such as Shwe Yee snack shop and Shwe Zone fresh juice and salad shops owned by U Maung Mg Thein. The government doesnt prohibit us not to use MSG in shops, but in my opinion, we shouldnt use MSG for health reasons, he said. his shops even have signs up saying they dont use MSG in the food. When i to go some restaurants, i dont know that a little amount of MSG has been added to the food but i cant stand it when a lot of MSG is used, he said. U Maung Mg Thein said that as MSG enhances the flavour of dishes, the taste is very different. People say that MSG improves the taste of food. Many of my customers dont like our mohinga because they say it isnt like other shops, he said. But the miss-use of MSG is important as it reflects the broader issue of the use of chemicals in food production, he added. every day we see many kinds of disease occur because of unnatural products. Today people find it more difficult to eat healthy foods such as fresh fish, meats and fruits. Most foods have been grown using chemicals to enhance their flavour and colour. however, four months ago the trade department permitted the legal import of five new products, including MSG, according to Dr Zaw Win, director of Food and Drug Administration department. The government move is intended to improve regulation and increase trade of products that comply to official health standards, he said, adding it came after continuous lobbying from companies, including from Thailand and China, seeking FDA approval.

Pic: The Myanmar Times

tisement, thinking it would be beneficial for girls. i hoped my skin, hair and nails would become healthier and more beautiful, she said. i noticed that i am getting more quality sleep and eating well after taking the vitamins but i dont think my skin, hair and nails are any healthier than before, she said. however, she admitted that

Pic: The Myanmar Times

food, he said, adding that in these instances, the important thing is not to consume more than is needed for your daily requirement. in Myanmar, South Korean ginseng, enervon C, Revicon, vitiron are popular items, which is partly due to television commercials or print media advertisements. Ma May Oo, 26, said that she is taking multi-vitamins everyday not on the instruction of her doctor, but on her own decision. i have been taking them for about three months. i became aware of them from an adver-

she had previously taken vitamin pills she had seen through adverts that had made her feel sick. When i took vitamins with ginseng, i got stomach pains so i stopped taking them. i also took medicine that contained iron supplements but i stopped after direction from my doctor. After viewing my results from a medical check up, he said it could harm my health. i plan to consult my doctor about the vitamin tablets im taking now, she added. however, even under direction from pharmacies, recommendations can be given

out without adequate health checks to find out if the customer has any history of allergies or negative reaction to certain prescriptions. Ma Khine, 36, a housewife, said she was apprehensive to take vitamin pills that she had not consumed before, after suffering an allergy from a new brand of vitamins. i usually just take vitamin pills such as Cevit as i have used them since childhood. Unfortunately, i tried some new vitamin tablets after being recommended by my local pharmacy last year. i suffered a serious allergy. i had no idea at first that the cause of the allergy was due to that new vitamin product until i went to my doctor and she asked me if i was taking anything. Now i dont dare take any medicine that i havent had before, she said. While vitamins are important for a healthy diet, the important thing is to understand their correct dosage, said the retired physician. he said that taking vitamin A in excess can cause convulsions while a surplus of vitamin D can lead to stones developing in the urine system and also stiff joints. he said vitamin A however, which is present in red, yellow and green coloured vegetables and fruit and also eggs, can help eyesight, while a similar lack of vitamin A can lead to night blindness. vitamin D is essential for the strength of bones and teeth. having a bath in the morn-

ing sun is the best way to get enough vitamin D, preventing soft bones in children and lower bone density in old people, he said. The physician suggested eating sea fish, green vegetables and also nuts to enrich vitamin e, essential in reducing free radicals. he added that a maximum need of vitamin C, which is present in fruits such as lemon, lime and tomatoes, is 200 mg a person a day. if you take more than the required amount, the excess is not stored in the body. vitamin C acts as an antioxident to prevent cancer and helps maintain healthy skin. he said that the B group vitamins, B1, B6 and B12 are also important for the nervous system and eye sight. if someone suffers from a particular vitamin deficiency, it is possible that the patient would need a boost from all the other kinds of vitamins, he said.

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Local knowledge a commodity for soft drinks market

By Myat May Zin
OFT drinks companies are facing the challenge of improving their business models as the market develops and opens up, say industry experts. i can see the local soft drinks market growing and growing. There are many new brands coming in. And things are changing as the glass bottles market is on a downward trend while aluminium and plastic bottles market, such as Blue Mountain and Max Plus, is increasing, said U Win Myint, director of loi hein company. To maintain market share in the face of increasing competition from foreign brands coming to Myanmar, mostly from China and Thailand, local soft

drink business need to improve technical capacity, he said. But a key advantage for local companies is an understanding of the local market. The Myanmar consumer prefers a cheap product and they also like it sweet, especially in rural areas. Only a small number of people have brand loyalty, such as Coca Cola, Pokker, Sprite etc., most soft drink consumers in Myanmar only focus on price, said U Win Myint. You can see this with the large market share of Chinese products because of their cheap price. Most of the Chinese products are distributed under so many different brand names, coming in both legally and illegally, he said. The carbonate soft drink market currently has three main local players, Max Plus

soft drinks produced by Pin Ya company, Blue Mountain soft drinks from loi hein company and Crusher, Orange, Star Cola drinks by MGS. The other soft drinks market is cordials, represented by Thayaphu (Crown) brand and happy brand. i see only two class of consumer in Myanmar: upper and lower class, said U Than Naing, owner of happy industry. Upper class people are more brand loyal than lower class people, who only focus on price. There is a middle class but they buy expensive brands when they have the money or choose cheaper products when they dont, he added. Before the new government, the price was quite different between foreign soft drinks

Plastic bottles and alluminium cans are the market trend in the soft drink industry. Pic: The Myanmar Times

and local products because most of the foreign products entered Myanmar illegally over the border. But as they .. distribute in the Myanmar market legally the price is not so different. Queen brand (cordial) from Thailand is K1200 a bottle while happy brand is K800

a bottle. The consumer who isnt concerned about K400 will choose Queen. There is also a sizable homemade soft drink market that caters for lower income consumers, he said. home-made soft drinks are used by street sellers for making cold drinks

and frozen ice sticks. They can get the soft drink chemical products to create home-made soft drinks easily from shops on 38th street and 40th streets. But they have no health guarantee and the companies also have no health insurance certificate, he said.

Instant gratification in a packet comes with hidden costs

By Nyein Ei Ei Htwe
WAKiNG up in the morning to the smell of a cup of coffee mix, or a choice of instant noodles for lunch, while grabbing a packet of crisps when returning home from work can all seem tempting due to lack of preparation needed for instant gratification. When the alternative of grabbing a bite or a drink from a street vendor can cause a moments hesitation over hygiene, the rise in variety of instant foods can appear all the more appealing. But attractive packaging and advertising campaigns can be a distraction in themselves, minimizing important issues concerning health and food safety. instant foods are a timesaver but there needs be strict laws for the production of instant foods, said doctor linn Sat Paing hmuu. There have been cases of packs of instant foods made using lead paint which can rub from the pack to the food. it needs to have tin and nickel underneath otherwise customers can be at risk from the lead, he said. And also for cans, there are procedures in packaging that if it is not followed then bacteria can spread, causing stomach problems, the doctor said. Another chemical used with instant foods, Nitrite, can trigger asthma, cause headaches while other long term risks can come from the use of formalin in meat, linn Sat Paing hmuu added if we eat those chemicals daily, it can lead to cancer and other diseases, but we can drink fresh fruit juice after eating, because it can reduce the level of toxins we ingest, he said. The Biological value Unit, which is the guide on the outside of a packet should contain the vitamin C groups, vitamin B groups, some Amino Acids in ratio. For Ko Kyaw Kyaw han, 27, who works as a seaman, he said that instant foods were a necessity for him as there was little alternative. it is not easy to eat instant noodles all the time. Although our chef cooked fish for lunch and dinner, some of us cant eat fish since childhood, so it was always noodles. Ko Kyaw Kyaw han said they would buy a lot of instant products when they arrived at harbour and survived off them until the next time they docked. After eating those instant noodles for nearly one year on a daily basis, i felt pains in my stomach and my hair fell out more than ever. i started to doubt the health value of noodles and am now trying to eat fish, Ko Kyaw Kyaw han said. Ma Wai Wai hlaing used to eat a lot of instant noodles, but stopped after developing backache and regular headaches, which she felt came from her diet. i used to eat two packs of noodles everyday, for breakfast and lunch, and then maybe for dinner, but after reading carefully the ingredients list on the pack, i made sure to only eat them occasionally, she said. Also, we cant see how the factories make instant foods last for such a long time and to be tasty. i dont mean it is necessarily dangerous to eat, but we need to take care not to over eat, she said.

Different instant foods in colourful packagings attract customers. Pic: The Myanmar Times