February 6 - 12, 2012

myanmartimes
Myanmars first international weekly Volume 31, No. 613 1200 Kyats
said Mr Vidar Helgesen, the Norwegian secretary general of the Sweden-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA). Theres obviously an interest by the government and the president in opening up and establishing better relationships with key international players. But theres no need for them to invite a democracy organisation. Like most people, we were surprised by the intensity of the reform effort, particularly as it materialised after August 19 [when President U Thein Sein met Daw Aung San Suu Kyi] and then after that I think one cant be surprised by anything because there is an openness for discussion that is very uplifting, he told The Myanmar Times in Yangon on February 2. The visit included the requisite meetings with parliamentary and electoral officials and the leader of the National League for Democracy, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. But unlike most foreign visitors to the country, International IDEA wont be sitting back watching how democracy unfolds in Myanmar: the organisation has already agreed to implement a program to build capacity among parliamentarians. Training for election commission officials also seems likely after the April 1 byelections. While we would like to try and get started as soon as possible, we would obviously take a long-term perspective because developing democracy and democratic institutions and processes is a very long process and the more complex the situation the longer it takes, Mr Helgesen said. One of the big issues on the horizon for this country given the bold moves on the peace negotiation front is obviously how do you build ways of including groups that have previously been in armed conflict into the political process and thats partly a process of negotiation but its also a process of institution building. More page 4

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In Nay Pyi Taw, parliament receives an unlikely visitor

IT says a lot about how expectations of Myanmars democratic experiment have changed that an international organisation dedicated to strengthening democracy and holding fair elections can today visit parliament and it barely raises an eyebrow. And as if that wasnt enough, the organisation was invited to Nay Pyi Taw by Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann, the former number three in the State Peace and Development Council. The fact that we were invited is a very positive indication,

Budget up for debate in hluttaw this week > 3 Thousands welcome Daw Suu Kyi in Dawei > 6 Singapore to provide govt with help on economy > 11
Pic: Kaung Htet

NEWS

NEWS

BUSINESS

Shwegyin monks pay homage at Shwedagon

More than 600 monks of the Shwegyin Nikaya Gain, or Shwegyin Buddhist order, pay homage at Yangons Shwedagon Pagoda on the evening of February 1. The monks were in Yangon for the 18th Shwegyin Sangha conference, held at a monastery in Hmawbi township, from January 31 to February 2. A total of 891 monks from 12 regions and states in Myanmar as well as Sri Lanka, Thailand, South Korea, Japan and England took part in the conference. The Shwegyin Buddhist order is the second largest in Myanmar, with about 60,000 members. Sandar Lwin

Fury in Egypt after 74 die at stadium > 19

WORLD

Daw Suu Kyi to visit state capitals

By Kyaw Hsu Mon DAW Aung San Suu Kyi plans to visit all state and region capitals during campaigning for the April 1 by-elections, she said last week, shortly after calling off a campaign trip to Mandalay because it could not arrange a suitable venue. The National League for Democracy leader said she would also begin campaigning in her own constituency, Kawmhu in Yangon Region, on February 11, after visiting Pathein in Ayeyarwady Region on February 7. She said she was contesting Kawmhu because of its large Kayin population. I might visit [Kawmhu] more than three times if I dont have to go elsewhere to campaign. There are Kayin people living there, thats why I chose to contest [this constituency], she told reporters after meeting Mr Tomas Quintana, the United Nations special rapporteur for human rights in Myanmar, in Yangon on February 3. I cant go and campaign in every constituency that the NLD will contest in the by-election but I plan to visit the capital of each region and state including Kachin State, she said, before adding: We will try to win 100 percent of seats in this by election. Party spokesperson U Nyan Win said a planned trip to Mandalay on February 4-5 would be rescheduled for when a suitable venue was available. Another spokesperson told news agency AFP that Ba Htoo Stadium was unavailable over the weekend and the Union Election Commission had offered the party the use of another football ground. However, with a capacity of about 10,000 Daw Aung San Suu Kyi was concerned it wouldnt be large enough for the rallies, he said. She worries people might be injured because of the size of the crowd. Thats why she postponed the trip. She will go there later for sure, the spokesperson said. The trip was to be Daw Aung San Suu Kyis second official campaign event, following a tour of Dawei and rural Tanintharyi Region on January 29. More page 4

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Shedding light on shadows from our countrys past

By BBS U Win Tin MUCH has changed since President U Thein Sein took over the reins of government in Nay Pyi Taw in March 2011. However, more visible changes are needed. There are some who clamour that the present administration is another military government in civilian attire, and that the Revolutionary Government, Burma Socialist Program Party Government, State Law and Order Restoration Council Government, State Peace and Development Council Government and the present government are all basically the same. I for one see things differently. It is true though that most members of the present government are former senior military officers and belong to the Union Solidarity and Development Party In addition to all the changes we have seen to date, I think there are a few additional things that can be done to show all concerned here and overseas that there has been a complete break from the past, that this government operates differently from its predecessors and is focusing on national reconciliation. 1. The statues of Bogyoke Aung San in Kandawgyi Park and Resistance Park The time has finally come for these areas to be improved and landscaped properly, with gardens, flowers water fountains and floodlights, as befitting the status of the national hero and founder of the modern Tatmadaw. Resistance Park should at least be open during weekends and on all official holidays. Likewise the Martyrs Mausoleum and Bogyoke Aung San Museum should be accessible to all, including regular visitors, students and tourists. Soldiers march beside Martyrs Mausoleum in Yangon as part of a ceremony to mark Martyrs Day on July 19, 2011. Pic: AFP

AirAsia, not quite king of the skies

ONE of the best things to have happened in this region over the past decade has been the successful launch of AirAsia. The Malaysia-based budget carrier, which marked its 10th anniversary last month, flies to every country in Southeast Asia and at a cost that plain folks can afford. Helmed by its dynamic boss and founder Tony Fernandes, it has been a regional unifier as well as a highly profitable enterprise. My own reasons for being an AirAsia patron are simple: there is a great selection of flights to a great variety of cities across Asia, the service is efficient, the planes usually new and there are relatively few delays. Most important of all, it is cheap. AirAsias fares are invariably the lowest available. That is why the first port of call for most regional travellers planning any trip in these parts is the AirAsia website. And therein lies a problem. It is a decent site, but a deceptively tricky one. And that trickiness, which also extends to AirAsias promotional campaigns, has got the airline into hot water. Recently it was hit with a lawsuit in one of its key markets, Australia, due to its infuriating policy of failing to reveal the full ticket price in its adverts and on its website. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission argued that many of AirAsias so-called all in fares neglect to include all taxes, duties, fees and other charges. Quite rightly, the watchdog body wants an injunction to restrain AirAsia from engaging in misleading conduct in the future. AirAsia reacted quickly and on January 26 reported that corrective action had already been taken to constructively resolve the matter. AirAsia may technically comply with the law, but like many other airlines, it often does not behave in an ethical and proper manner. Indeed, because of this, the

The president and hluttaws could also consider the posthumous promotion of General Aung San to Marshal, Generalissimo or a similar rank and name Nay Pyi Taw or Yangon airport Marshal Aung San International Airport. We have some good examples in and out of the region like Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, John F Kennedy Airport, New York and Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. This would be a long overdue gesture. 2. The tombs of Thakin Kodaw Hmaing, Bogyoke Kadaw Daw Khin Kyi, Queen Supayalat and U Thant on Shwedagon Pagoda Road These places should also be improved and landscaped to recognise the status and backgrounds of the four personalities in our long history. Legendary Thakin Kodaw Hmaing, also known as Professor Maung Hmaing, was from the Dohbama Asiayone; Daw Khin Kyi, the

widow of General Aung San, our only female ambassador and also referred to by many as the Mother of Burma; Queen Supayalat, the last Queen of Burma; and U Thant, who served two terms as United Nations Secretary General, from 1961 to 1971. Appropriate signs in Myanmar and English with a brief history and explanation of each should be placed in all locations. 3. The statue of Sayadaw U Wisara, freedom fighter Again, appropriate signage in Myanmar and English should be placed to honour this patriotic freedom fighter, who died in prison on September 19, 1929, on the 166th day of his fast. It would be good if the donor of the bronze statue, from Myaungmya, is also mentioned. 4. Panglong Agreement, union spirit and related matters The historic Panglong agreement was signed 65 years ago by 22 signatories,

including Bogyoke Aung San, on February 12, 1947. They include five Shan Sawbwas and the representative of one sawbwa, seven Shan representatives of the local populace, five Kachin representatives and three Chin representatives. It would be most appropriate to create awareness of their role in this historic agreement and name roads, streets, markets and in the respective regions after all these personalities. Even the small town of Panglong should be promoted so that visitors can learn more about this place that was integral to the formation of independent Myanmar. (BBS U Win Tin is a student of the former Methodist English High School in Yangon who worked in the Information & Broadcasting Department of the Ministry of Information from 1977-81 and then a UN agency for more than 25 years. He can be contacted on 10win17@gmail.com.)

United States has recently made it a criminal offence for airlines not to show all taxes and other surcharges in their advertised fares. As well, airlines flying in the US can no longer use opt-out provisions whereby they automatically charge for optional items unless the customer specifically rejects them. It is in its opt-outs that AirAsias trickiness has reached a fine art. Customers must be on high alert throughout the booking process or else they will be charged for checked baggage, priority seat assignments and insurance among other things, all of which they may not want. Even declining these options is tricky, because then another window pops up to caution customers and ask if they are really sure they want to decline. And the trickiness continues when customers who want to say that yes, they really are sure, must not hit ok but instead cancel as if, in fact, they are not sure and want to cancel their refusal and accept the option. It is all shockingly and deliberately designed to catch customers out. Just like the absurdly named convenience fee charged for using a credit card to buy a ticket, when it is for the airlines convenience that customers do this. As for the insurance charged unless customers carefully follow a two stage opt-out, it is a scam since all airlines under international conventions must insure and compensate passengers for accidents and lost baggage. Such practices, which drive longtime AirAsia patrons crazy, must be stopped so that when ASEAN completes its liberalisation of the regions airspace by 2015, an advertised all in fare is just that and nothing more.

The Mail Box

Dear editor, From my humble point of view, telecommunications plays a very important role in poverty alleviation in Myanmar. The K5000 SIM cards are now the most popular topic among people in Myanmar and a lot of hot air was exchanged between some bureaucrats at Myanmar Post and Telecommunications and the company that is trying its best to make K5000 SIM cards a reality. To be honest, we all know that even the forthcoming K300,000 SIM cards are still extremely expensive for the majority of people in Myanmar. On the other hand, K5000 a SIM card is too good to be true. I think the price of a SIM card should be about K20,000 apiece. I am a former resident representative of Scansia, former representative of Pan-China Trading, former director of Forest JV and former director of City Furniture so I have some idea of how things work in other countries to a certain extent. Nyunt Aung Dear Editor, I would like to thank The Myanmar Times for the article on the Ayeyarwady featured in the January 9-15 edition (Vol 31, Issue 609). It was excellent. One could vividly imagine all the colourful sights, sounds and smells that the author writes about. I look forward to more such features. Dr Khin S Aye Kaba Aye Villa Residences 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 correspondencei n 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

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Reps to debate draft budgets in NPT this week

By Soe Than Lynn PYIDAUNGSU Hluttaw representatives have been told to consider the desires of the public when they begin discussing budgetary and national planning bills this week. In his address at the start of the third session of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw on January 31 exactly one year after representatives gathered in the new parliament in Nay Pyi Taw for the first time Speaker U Khin Aung Myint said lawmakers would have to consider national planning, union budget and supplementary budget bills. At the present time we are making the democratic society of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar more dynamic and strong. Administration of democracy is merely public administration and accurately receiving receipts, which are the publics funds, and allocating and expending these funds meaningfully should be in accordance with the publics wishes. The public needs to be happy [with the allocation of public funds]. Regarding these bills, I would like you all to consider all possibilities, said U Khin Aung Myint, who is also speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw. Four bills were presented to parliament on January 31 and throughout the week Union Ministers presented their ministrys proposed budget. Debates are expected to begin this week, with representatives wishing to discuss the 2011-12 National Planning Bill and 2012-13 National Planning Bill instructed to register by February 3, while those wanting to discuss the 2012 Union Supplementary Budget Allocation Bill and Union Budget Bill to register by February 6. The budget is likely to dominate the third session of parliament in Nay Pyi Taw. Open discussion and public disclosure of budgetary matters would mark a dramatic departure from the approach of the State Peace and Development Council. The military governments budgets, characterised by high spending on the military and meagre amounts for health and education, were usually drawn up by a handful of the top generals and were rarely released to the public. Mr Sean Turnell, an associate professor of economics at Australias Macquarie University, said he hoped that the 2012-13 budget would see all foreign exchange earnings of state-owned enterprises recorded at a near-market exchange rate, rather than the official exchange rate. [This would] greatly revolutionise Myanmars fiscal position. If this does happen, then this will be an enormous step forward in terms of budgetary transparency, he told The Myanmar Times recently. Of course, transforming the budget in this way will not be easy and so the extent and the reality of the transformation will give us further insight into the institutional capabilities of the Myanmar government, but especially the Department of Finance. A major concern is also parliamentarians level of knowledge about budgetary matters, as they will be responsible for debating and approving the budgets. Pyidaungsu Hluttaw representatives received some training on planning principles and basic budgeting during the second session in late 2011 and last week each representative also received reference material from each Union Government ministry. A Joint Bill Committee and Joint Public Accounts Committee, both with an equal number of upper and lower house representatives, were formed on January 31 to scrutinise the bills before they are discussed in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw. Pyidaungsu Hluttaw Deputy Speaker U Mya Nyein was appointed chairman of both committees, which are made up of 30 members each. The first day of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session also saw U Kyaw Swa Khaing, Minister of the Presidents Office, granted permission to resign and U Myat Ko confirmed as the new Chief Minister of Tanintharyi Region, replacing U Khin Zaw who voluntarily resigned on health grounds. Translated by Thit Lwin Members of the Shan State Progressive Party and Tatmadaw shake hands after signing an agreement in Taunggyi on January 28. Pic: Boothee

Govt, SSPP reach initial peace agreement

By Win Ko Ko Latt A GOVERNMENT peace-making team signed a five-point initial peace agreement with the Shan State Progressive Party in the state capital Taunggyi. The agreement, which includes an immediate ceasefire, was signed on January 28 at the office of the Shan State regional government. Other provisions include the opening of liaison offices in Taunggyi, Lashio and Kho Lan, which are all located in Shan State. We came here not only for our SSPP and Shan State Army (SSA) but also for restoring peace in Shan State, said Sai Naw Late, a central committee member of the SSPP, the political wing of the Shan State Army-North. We will try to restore peace and stability throughout the country within the three years or at least in this governments term, U Aung Thaung, leader of the national peace making team, said after signing the agreement on January 28. Both sides agreed to uphold the three national causes and to cooperate to eliminate drug production and trade. U Thein Zaw, deputy leader of the governments peace-making team, said communication was an important factor in the success of the peace talks, which commenced on October 18, 2011. We met four times, sent nine official letters and made several phone calls before signing the agreement. To achieve peace, we must have a sincere attitude and must have equal rights and equal justice. He also suggested that to improve the countrys prospects for peace, an all-inclusive peace-making group must be established that includes people from all walks of life.

Health, education in line for increase

YANGON The Union Government has proposed a budget for the 2012/13 fiscal year that would give a huge boost to the health and education sectors but still provides far greater resources for the armed forces. The military, which ruled Myanmar for almost five decades until a civilian government took office in March, will receive a budget of K1.87 trillion (about US$2.3 billion). That represents 14.4 percent of the total K13.04 trillion budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year, which starts on April 1, and a rise of 36pc on last year. The total budget will increase 63pc from the K7.98 trillion in 2011-12. Health would get K368 billion, four times as much as the K92 billion in the last budget, while spending on education would almost double to K617 billion from K310 billion, according to information provided to Reuters by Amyotha Hluttaw representative Dr Aye Maung. The proposal, which is in line with the governments reform agenda, could help win it support at home and boost Myanmars case for a lifting of Western sanctions. The government has many of the same generals, now retired, who ruled the country with an iron fist, spending large sums of money on the armed forces and little on schools and hospitals, but the new administration insists the welfare of its people is now its priority. For the new fiscal year, the government is banking on K10.52 trillion in receipts, leaving a K2.52 trillion deficit. That compares with a projected K5.78 trillion in receipts and a K2.20 trillion deficit for the current fiscal year. Dollar conversions from Myanmars kyat currency are complicated by the countrys two exchange rates: it has a fluctuating black market rate and an official rate that is barely used other than for some government data. Myanmar is seeking help from the International Monetary Fund to unify its exchange rates. According to Dr Aye Maung, Minister for Finance and Revenue U Hla Tun also revealed that Myanmar owes some $11.02 billion in external debt run up decades ago, while its foreign currency reserves are a little over $7 billion. U Hla Tun said that $8.41 billion out of the $11.02 billion in external debt was incurred during the socialist military regime that ruled from 1962 to 1988. That included $6.39 billion owed to Japan, $802 million to the World Bank, $582 million to Germany and $357 million to the Asian Development Bank. Debt run up after 1988 amounted to $2.61 billion, including $2.14 billion owed to China. The minister said that total foreign exchange reserves were $7.20 billion. Reuters

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Stability of the State, community peace and tranquillity, prevalence of law and order Strengthening of national solidarity Building and strengthening of disciplineflourishing democracy system Building of a new modern developed nation in accord with the Constitution

Four political objectives

Building of modern industrialized nation through the agricultural development, and all-round development of other sectors of the economy Proper evolution of the market-oriented economic system Development of the economy inviting participation in terms of technical know-how and investment from sources inside the country and abroad initiative to shape the national economy must be kept in the hands The of the State and the national peoples

Four economic objectives

Uplift of the morale and morality of the entire nation of national prestige and integrity and preservation Uplift and safeguarding of cultural heritage and national character Flourishing of Union Spirit, the true patriotism Uplift of health, fitness and education standards of the entire nation

Four social objectives

E-visa trial to begin this month

By Zaw Win Than THE Ministry for Hotels and Tourism is pushing for a significant liberalisation of Myanmars visa regulations and plans to introduce an electronic visa application system from next month, Union Minister U Tint San said last week. We are trying to introduce an e-visa system from March that would allow international visitors to apply for a visa from anywhere via the internet before visiting Myanmar. They would no longer need to go to a Myanmar embassy to apply for a visa. The pilot project will begin in February before it is officially launched in March. We hope the system will be successful, he said in Nay Pyi Taw on February 1. The web address for the proposed e-visa site is www.myanmarevisa.gov.mm. He said the ministry was also working From page 1 to attract direct international flights to airports at Bagan and Ngapali in the near future. We are also in discussions with other ministries to allow tourists to enter or exit the country at any checkpoint by either air or land, he said. Tourists wanting to enter Myanmar by land currently face a raft of restrictions: only a handful of border crossings are open to foreigners and a regulation introduced in mid-2011 requires tourists to enter and exit at the same checkpoint. A ministry spokesperson said the e-visa system would be rolled out at all entry points, including border crossings. In late December, we had coordination meetings with the Minister for Hotels and Tourism on the launch of an e-visa system at entrance and exit points at airports, seaports and border checkpoints to make it more convenient for foreign visitors entering Myanmar, a ministry spokesperson said. We also discussed boat voyages in Kawthoung Region, development of Dawei and Myeik tours and the establishment of more hotel zones for the next peak season. All these plans are being discussed and we will try to implement them very soon before the next peak season. The government introduced a visa on arrival system on May 1, 2010 that allowed foreign visitors from any country to apply for a visa on arrival at Yangon and Mandalay international airports without having to make any prior arrangements with a travel agency. Hailed as a breakthrough for the industry, it was suspended by the Department of Immigration and National Registration just four months later. Visa on arrival is currently permitted on Myanmar Airways International flights from Phnom Penh and Siem Reap in Cambodia and Chinas Guangzhou.

Daw Suu Kyi to visit

Residents flooded the streets of the regional capital during her visit, waving flags, cheering and dancing with delight. Traffic clogged the roads as Daw Aung San Suu Kyis convoy, trailed by a large number of cars and motorbikes, travelled around the district. U Nyan Win said a third campaign trip, to Pathein in Ayeyarwady Region on February 7, would go ahead as scheduled. U Nyan Win also said the NLD was signing up many new members but had to take some time to make sure they were eligible for party membership. For example, some people quit from other parties to join the NLD. We will check all applications, he said. Senior member U Win Tin said that the NLD had already welcomed back Dr Myat Nyarna Soe, who won an Amyotha Hluttaw seat with the National Democratic Force in the November 2010 election. See related story page 6

Mr Vidar Helgesen, secretary general of the Sweden-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), in Yangon last week. Pic: Yadanar domestically and abroad, a disputed poll could be a setback for the reform process. Democracy is more than elections but elections are at the very heart of democracy and elections are the most visible process that can communicate to voters, and to the citizens, whether democracy works well. As the first elections after the launch of the reform process and the new dynamics between the president and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, these elections will be very instrumental. If they are conducted freely and fairly and are seen as by citizens as being conducted freely and fairly they will be a source of confidence and inspiration in the democratic process. In November 2010, the Union Solidarity and Development Party won an overwhelming majority. On April 1 the party will face a much stronger opposition, in the form of the NLD, and the by-elections could be expected to bring about clearer and stronger political divisions in both parliament and society. However, Mr Helgesen said it will also mark an important step forward in developing a political behaviour and political culture where contestation and consensus building are both parts of the game. Striking that balance between contestation and consensus building will be critical because democracy is about both. One of the main issues the NLD has highlighted is the 2008 constitution, and specifically the role of the military in politics. Mr Helgesen said International IDEA takes the view that democratisation is an inherently domestic process. We dont have a definition of democracy but we see it as being based on two principles: citizen control over public decision-making and then equality between citizens in the exercise of that control. But on the basis of those two principles democracy can take many forms and solutions need to be developed within each country. One of the features of democracy is obviously civilian control of the armed forces. Thats a fairly general view of democracy. But given that the reality in Myanmar, as

International IDEA
But a shorter-term challenge is the holding of by-elections in 48 constituencies. The government has insisted that the election process will be free and fair: electoral commission officials told International IDEA that there would be greater independent scrutiny of all activities on polling day, including voting, counting and the sealing of advanced votes. Political party monitors, the media, members of the public and diplomats will be able to observe the process but when we asked about going beyond that on observation such as international election monitors there was no clear response, Mr Helgesen said. He said that the by-elections would be a testing ground for the new freedoms and given the huge expectations both

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in many other countries, has been a dominant role for the military, you have to take the current situation as a starting point. He cited the example of Chile, where after many years the military has retreated from politics and the country has become a thriving democracy. Not so many decades back Chile had a strong military role in politics. The process of building civilian institutions and capacity and civilian control over the armed forces in Chile took quite a long time. I think you need to take that long-term approach and look at any democratic development as a positive and rather look at the direction things are taking rather than any snapshot in a moment. Its obvious in Myanmar, having met both the head of the NLD and officials from the [USDP], that one of the big discussions to be had is the role of the military and the constitution. While a resolution to that issue appears some time off, the huge need for institution and capacity building of parliaments, political parties, media, civil society, judiciary and more is enough to keep everyone occupied in the meantime. But Mr Helgesen said it was important to also not lose sight of that building of political culture, which is what happens between the institutions. In each of these [institutions] you need not only the rules of the game the constitution and the laws but also the actual game, once the rules are in place. [This] is very important. Thats where the political culture comes from. Thats where much of the quality of democracy is determined. Because if democracy is only about contestation, competition and conflict, and not also about building a shared vision for the countrys development, then democracy doesnt serve its citizens as well as it should.

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Volunteers repair a road in Sagaing Region built using funds raised through the sale of donated hair. Pic: Aung Shin

February 6 - 12, 2012

Press law to wait until next hluttaw session: govt

By Yadana Htun A DRAFT publishing law that the government says will end formal censorship is unlikely to be submitted for approval during the current session of parliament, The Myanmar Times has learned. U Tint Swe, the deputy director general of the Ministry of Informations Press Scrutinisation and Registration Department (PSRD), also confirmed to The Myanmar Times last week that the ministrys version of the Printing Press and Publications Law was finished but could be updated and would only cover print media. The draft is only for print media and electronic media is not included. We sent it to the Attorney Generals Office in January to get legal advice, U Tint Swe said on January 30 on the sidelines of a two-day workshop on Media Development in Democratic Society in Yangon. While the ministry had planned to submit the draft bill during the current session of parliament, U Tint Swe said this looked increasingly unlikely. This session is mainly focused on budgets and it probably wont be possible to [submit the draft for approval] before it ends. He said the ministry could also update the law to address points raised at the January 30-31 workshop and also a ministry-level workshop planned for March, which will be held with support from international organisations including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). When we met with international organisations they asked whether the law has been finalised as it has been sent to the Attorney Generals Office already. Its still a draft. We need to take into account the outcomes from the workshops and discuss [the draft] widely. And representatives in the parliament will also discuss it, U Tint Swe said. But while we need to discuss the content and take advice from the workshops it is definite that the law will come out in 2012. After that there wont be any more censorship. He said the law was drafted by PSRD officials and includes 11 chapters, including rights, duties and ethical codes for writers and journalists; principles to be observed by publications; committee for press freedom and raising ethical standards; registration of printers, publishers and distributors; and penalties. Though the draft was adapted from the Law for Registration of Printing and Publishing 1962, U Tint Swe said the committee made many changes, adopting sections of media laws used in Asia as well as Western countries like the United Kingdom, Germany and Hungary. There are many changes [to the 1962 law] in the draft. We took the table of contents from the 1962 law but not the content. So while it includes regulations on registration [of publications] it is much more flexible. You dont need to do many steps like in the past, he said. For example, at the moment, you can publish a publication only when the ministry gives a licence. According to the draft, you can easily get a licence and anyone can get one. The chief of the VOAs Burmese Service, U Than Lwin Htun, who participated in last weeks workshop, held at Inya Lake Hotel, said the law shouldnt be used to restrict journalists. Some people say that the ... censorship board will be abolished but we will have to wait and see. A media law should protect journalists, not restrict them, he said.

Residents form NGO in Sittwe

RESIDENTS in Sittwe have established a non-government organisation to promote environmental awareness and participate in regional development work. The aptly named Environmental Conservation and Regional Development Association (Sittwe) was officially founded in the Rakhine State capital on January 29. The association has 80 founding members, including 20 executive committee members, said the groups chairman, U Than Hlaing. Development projects are being implemented in Rakhine State. But we have not yet got true information about the details of those projects; nobody has said anything to us about them. People do not know how to get information. We want to make sure our environment is not damaged, he said. U Maung Maung Thein Pe, chairmanoftheRakhineCostal Conservation Association said he was pleased to see a new environmentally focused non-government group in the region. Other people think that natural resources in Rakhine State have not been damaged much but there are very few mangrove forests and even mountain forests left. We are ready to cooperate not only with this association but also the state government on conservation issues, he said. U Than Hlaing said his organisation hoped to work with environmental experts and other groups. He said the group would seek to mitigate the negative environmental and social impacts of large development projects, including a planned railway from Kyaukpyu to China. Ei Ei Toe Lwin

Sayardaw expands hair bridge project in Sagaing

By Aung Shin A PROMINENT sayardaw has announced plans to build a K1 billion (US$1.2 million) bridge in a remote part of Sagaing Region using funds raised from the sale of donated hair. There are about 30 villages on the other side of [Myaukyamar Creek] and it is very difficult to cross the flooded creek in rainy season, U Veponla said last week. At 540 feet (160 metres), the bridge will be the longest on the 15-mile stretch of road between Yinmabin and Pale townships that the sayardaw has repaired. The road provides access to Alaungdaw Kathapa National Park, a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site. Also known as Shwesanpin (Golden Hair) Sayardaw, U Veponla has been improving roads and bridges in Pale township since 2006 but his fundraising drive took off in 2009 when women started donating their hair for the project. Since then Shwesanpin Sayardaw has travelled around the country accepting donations, with women in Sagaing, Mandalay, Magwe and Yangon regions and Kachin State shedding their locks for his worthy cause. It would be hard to donate with our own cash because we are struggling in the countryside. We dont have much money for donations but we would like to contribute to repairing the road in our region so someone came up with the idea of donating hair, said Ma Nu, who lives in Pahtotha village in Pale township. A full head of hair can fetch around K10,000. The road is known as Shwesanpin Bridge Road after a bridge that the sayardaw opened in 2009, at a cost of about K100 million. To date more than K500 million has been invested in the road and about 20 mid-sized bridges along its length. Shwesanpin Sayardaw purchased a road roller and trucks to transport building materials, while volunteers give their labour to repair the road and bridges. We built the road and bridges with our own workers and this meant we got experience and kept expenses down, he said. We also have some other vehicles that we use to transport emergency patients from their village [to the hospital]. It is very hard for villagers to get to hospitals quickly so we started offering this service, he said, adding that more than 300 patients had been transferred to hospital with the vehicles in the past two years. More than 60 villages in Yinmabin and Pale townships with a combined population of about 50,000 rely on Shwesanpin road for transport.

Trade Mark CauTIon

Cluett, Peabody & Co., Inc., a Delaware corporation of 200 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016, U.S.A., is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

reg. no. 292/1998 in respect of Collars, handkerchiefs, shirts, underwear, ties and socks. The said Trade Mark is a slightly updated form of the ARROW mark used in Myanmar since 1924 and registered in Myanmar under numbers 490/1924, 1795/1959, 1688/1961, 726/1975, 714/1979, 1296/1980, 695/1987, 1585/1989, 574/1991, 292/1998 and Trade Mark Cautionary Notices published in The Nation of 17.9.61, 17.9.63, Guardian of 12.9.65, 11.9.70, 28.9.75, 10.9.81, 20.5.87 and The New Light of Myanmar of 28.9.94, 16.5.1998 and 17.9.2009. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for Cluett, Peabody & Co., Inc. P. O. Box 60, Yangon Dated: 6th February, 2012

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An NLD supporter holds a banner in Dawei on January 29. Pic: AFP

Thousands line streets of Dawei for first NLD rally

By Shwe Yinn Mar Oo THOUSANDS of National League for Democracy supporters in the Tanintharyi Region capital Dawei welcomed Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on January 29, in what was her first political trip since the party formally re-registered. The trip marked the start of campaigning in the lead up to the April 1 by-elections, in which the NLD will contest all 48 seats up for grabs, and was in significant contrast to the tentative campaign activities before the November 2010 election. Shortly after arriving in Dawei, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi made a speech at the NLDs regional office in which she outlined the three issues the party would make central to its election campaign. Rule of law is important for people not to be jobless in order to get out of poverty. Some laws of our country limit the people to work independently. I want to solve [those problems] in the hluttaw. There are a few laws that need to be revoked as well, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said. She also listed domestic peace building, which she said Dawei residents should understand well because they live in close proximity to areas dominated by ethnic minority groups. To build understanding among one another, we must listen to the other side and we must respect their voices. We must have the willingness to fulfill their expectations. If so, there is no reason for the country to discontinue its development, said Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, who visited Dawei in 1989 in the lead up to the 1990 election. She said that it was also important to efficiently utilise opportunities that arise from a successful democratisation process. Rule of law is very crucial to make sure the citizens receive the assistance granted to them [by the international community]. I think I dont need to explain further, she said. The NLD chair also urged party members to study the 2008 constitution carefully to identify provisions that need to be changed on the grounds that they arent beneficial for the people. Thats a must. We must dare to face [the need to change the constitution], she said. She said an important element of a flourishing democracy was political parties that were in touch with the people. Never try to trick the people. Those who try to trick the people will last only for a short time, no matter how powerful they are. Dont make promises that you cant keep. I promise to do my best in my capacity. I cant go beyond that, she said. Tens of thousands flocked to get a glimpse of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the streets of Dawei flooded with people waving flags, cheering and dancing at the appearance of the democracy icon, who is to contest the seat of Kawhmu near Yangon. Residents brought flowers and gifts and held up their children to see the NLD leader, with banners proclaiming You are our heart. The April polls will be the first time Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has been able to directly participate in an election. The NLD will vie for two seats in Tanintharyi Region, with Daw Tin Tin Yi contesting Kyunsu and U Aung Soe a candidate for Launglon. But Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said there was more to democracy than just winning seats. Yes, we want votes as they are important to win elections. But what we really want is the support of the people with their hearts. Dont forget that that is what is really valuable. Gaining votes without the affection and trust of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi addresses supporters on the outskirsts of Dawei on January 29. Pic: AFP the people is worthless, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said. The word democracy means the power of the people, the strength of the people. The power of the people must be able to influence the government. If the representative that you choose this time doesnt work for the interests of the people, you dont need to [vote for them] at the next election, she said. After the speech, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi travelled to Launglon, a small town south-west of Dawei. Thousands of people on motorbikes formed a motorcade to escort her, stopping on occasions to greet villagers along the way. She reminded supporters waiting in front of the Launglon NLD office that everyone should have equal rights in a fair election. While the rich have a single ballot paper, the poor also have one. From the highest officials to the people who dont have any title, every single citizen has the right to vote on a ballot paper. Even an ordinary man is at the same position as the countrys highest, the president, on the day of an election. So cast your vote with the sense that you are the leader of the country. From Launglon she travelled to Lower Ye Phyu village and then back to Maungmakan, the regions most famous beach, located close to the proposed site of a Thai-backed Special Economic Zone that is set to transform the region. We have a responsibility to build a country that our children would want to live in. I hope that we can soon build the kind of country that we all want, she said to people gathered at the beach. A resident of Dawei, Ma Theint Theint Thu, was among those who came out to meet the NLD leader on her trip. I heard that she once came here before. I am so glad to see her She is like a queen. I like all the things that she said, Ma Theint Theint Thu told The Myanmar Times in front of the NLDs Dawei office. Everyone supports her in Dawei. You can see there are thousands of people here. Another supporter, Ma Nge Nge Soe, said seeing the NLD leader in the flesh had only increased her support for the party. I have never been to Ye Phyu before. But today I drove there with her motorcade just to show support for her. With AFP

Senior NLD to make way for youth

By Kyaw Hsu Mon THE National League for Democracy is looking to inject new blood into its ranks ahead of the April 1 byelections, a senior member said last week. U Win Tin said the party was working to add more young members to its senior ranks but did not specify whether there would be any formal change. This doesnt mean that the older members will stop participating in the partys activities, it will just create new openings for youth members. We want some new blood to ensure the partys future us old members dont want to stay at the top of the party till the end of our lives, he said. The older members of the party are in their 90s, and many central executive committee members are over 80, including U Win Tin. Weve already seen and participated in many events over the past 23 years us older members will keep working but in more relaxed roles, he said. The party will also seek to work with the 88 Generation student movement to strengthen its ranks and work effectively both inside and outside parliament, he said. Were now working outside we want to also extend our strength to the parliaments. U Win Tin said he was pleased that an event had been held at the partys Bahan office on January 29 to welcome eight recently released political prisoners who live in the township. Ko Htay Kywe, Ko Zaw Thet Htwe, Ko Myo Min Zaw, Ko Myo Min Htike, U Zay Ya, Sithu Zay Ya, Ma Sandar Min and Ko Soe Moe Tun were honoured at the event. Ko Htay Kywe, an 88 Generation leader, said he supported the NLD and its leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi in their efforts to enter parliament and believed its representatives would push for amendments to some sections of the 2008 constitution when elected. But I also think that political activities need to be balanced between inside and outside [the parliament], he said. This is the very initial step towards reforming Myanmars political situation. We will have to unite and we will have to work together to change things.

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By-elections will be free, fair, speaker tells Quintana

By Soe Than Lynn and Kyaw Hsu Mon PYITHU Hluttaw Speaker Thura U Shwe Mann last week assured a United Nations human rights envoy the April 1 by-elections would be free and fair. Thura U Shwe Mann told journalists on February 2 that he had promised a fair poll during a meeting with UN special rapporteur for human rights, Mr Tomas Quintana, earlier the same day. If the upcoming by-election is going to be free and fair, many opportunities for Myanmar will appear, Mr Quintana said. I promised him the by-elections will be free and fair. He told me that he will watch our work, Thura U Shwe Mann said at a press conference. Mr Quintana, who arrived in Myanmar on February 1, is due to file a report to the UN on the human rights situation in Myanmar in March. He was scheduled to hold a press conference shortly before his departure on February 5. Speaking to the media after meeting Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at her home in Yangon on February 3, he said he was expecting the government to facilitate an election that showed respect for human rights and in particular freedom of expression, which means the possibility to exercise a free campaign and to not be intimidated in any case. I met with the electoral commissioner yesterday and we discussed these issues and well be looking closely at how this process goes in respect to the by-elections, Mr Quintana said. He said he had been glad that the government had allowed him to visit and been flexible in his schedule. This afternoon I visited Insein Prison, where I interviewed three prisoners of conscience. I have been in Nay Pyi Taw meeting several ministers so I thank the government for arranging this program. It is important for me to be in this country to have first-hand information is crucial for me to prepare a very balanced report for the United Nations members. Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said her talks with Mr Quintana had focused on prisoners of conscience, despite the recent amnesty that saw many prominent activists freed. But Thura U Shwe Mann said he told Mr Quintana the government had freed all the real prisoners of conscience on the National League for Democracys list. Even now they still said political prisoners remain behind bars. The prisoners left behind were sent to prison for committing a crime. If it is true that real political prisoners are still left in the prison, we can discuss these cases again with the relevant people. Thura U Shwe Mann said he also raised the issue of sanctions with Mr Quintana. I told him about the troubles of our citizens. Because of their sanctions, our people are poor. Some people are jobless. Some Myanmar become victims of human trafficking. I asked him, do you know by-product of sanctions? If you know these by-products, what will you do for Myanmar? I cant tell you his answer, Thura U Shwe Mann said. While in Nay Pyi Taw, Mr Quintana also met with Pyithu Hluttaw representative U Htay Oo, head of the Pyithu Hluttaws Citizens Fundamental Rights, Democratic Affairs and Human Rights Committee, and asked about Rakhine nationals living near the border with Bangladesh. Mr Quintana also quizzed Pyithu Hluttaw representative U Thein Zaw, deputy head of a national team tasked with negotiating with armed ethnic groups, on the countrys ethnic conflicts. He also met Union Election Commission Chairman U Tin Aye, members of the presidential advisory team, the ministers for home affairs and border affairs, and the deputy ministers for defence and foreign affairs. Translated by Thiri Min Htun

Government agrees ceasefire with New Mon State Party

YANGON The government agreed to a ceasefire with ethnic Mon separatists last week, a peace mediator said, the latest in a series of tentative peace deals. The ceasefire between the army and the New Mon State Party (NMSP) was the seventh such agreement between the government and armed ethnic groups since former military junta leader and now President U Thein Sein made a public call for peace talks with separatists late last year. The ceasefire, one of 11 being sought by the government which came to power in 2010 in disputed polls, may strengthen Myanmars case for getting Western sanctions lifted. Along with freeing political prisoners and holding fair by-elections in April, the United States and European Union have made peace with ethnic militias a prerequisite for a review of their embargoes. The NMSP, the political wing of the Mon National Liberation Army (MNLA), which has fought for autonomy in eastern Mon State under various guises since 1948, agreed to set up liaison offices and restrict movement of weapons, a mediator said. The Mon State government and NMSP this morning signed a five-point preliminary agreement in principle, U Hla Maung Shwe said by telephone from Mawlamyine, the venue for the talks about 304 kilometres (190 miles) east of Yangon. Most ethnic groups seek some form of self-rule. Deals have been reached with the Karen National Union (KNU) and Shan State Army- South. But talks with the powerful Kachin Independence Organisation have been derailed by persistent fighting that aid groups say has displaced as many as 50,000 people and underlines the high political, economic and diplomatic stakes at play. Kachin State is central to the energy interests of both Myanmar and China, hosting crucial hydropower dams and twin pipelines that will transport oil and natural gas to supply southwestern Yunnan province. Reuters

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Mizzima preparing to open Yangon branch office Rare tree in Magwe gets brokers excited
By Kyaw Hsu Mon By Aung Shin A RARE plant species thought to be found only near a small village in upper Myanmar has got tongues wagging with its apparent ability to dissolve iron. The latpanphyu, or white silk cotton tree, is found in a forest about 3 kilometres (2 miles) from Outo village in Yesagyo township in Magwe Region. The village is near the Sinphyushin Bridge across the Chindwin River, which forms the boundary between Magwe and Sagaing regions. One specimen recently sold for K5 million, but brokers say the new owner will be able to quickly cash in on the widespread belief that the trees have supernatural powers and make a large profit perhaps in the thousands of millions of kyats. Many people came here to test these latpanphyu trees. One of the trees was succeeded in the test and was able to dissolve iron. Its very strange that the tree is strong enough to do this ... so someone near the village bought this latpanphyu tree last month, paying the owner K5 million, a 42-year-old resident of Outo village told The Myanmar Times late last month. The most common method of testing the latpanphyu is to hit an iron nail halfway into the tree and leave it for 24 hours to see whether the section inside the tree remains intact. The former owner of the tree said people had been hassling him for 14 years to test whether it could really dissolve iron but no one had ever previously offered him money. Finally, after receiving the offer of K5 million, he decided to sell one latpanphyu that had passed the test. NEW Delhi-based Mizzima News Agency is preparing to establish a branch office in Yangon, editor-in-chief U Soe Myint revealed last week, in what would be an historic return to the country for the exile media group. Were ready to set up our office in Yangon. If the government allowed us we could open it straight away and we have a strong belief that the government will allow us to do it, he told The Myanmar Times on January 29. Were in discussion with an official from the government and Im optimistic that Mizzima will be given permission to return to Myanmar, he said. U Soe Myints brother, managing editor U Sein Win, has visited Myanmar twice in the past month and for both it was their first time back in the country since 1998, the year Mizzima was established. U Soe Myint said he wanted to diversify Mizzima to include more multimedia projects after it returned to Yangon. Im going to start with print media as

an initial step and after that I plan to move into other media, such as television and radio, U Soe Myint said. U Soe Myint said Mizzima would also conduct journalism training programs if necessary. He said there had been improvements in media freedom of late and the market was increasingly competitive. If we have a chance, we want to open our head office here, he said. Our intention is to set up our own media group but if we have the chance to work with others, we may also do that.

E. coli found in many Yangon sushi outlets, say researchers

By Yamon Phu Thit BACTERIOLOGICAL contamination caused by poor hygiene and storage has been detected in much of the sushi being sold at restaurants, sushi bars and supermarkets in Yangon, researchers say. Ninety-two samples of meat, seafood, vegetable, tofu and egg sushi were collected from well-known outlets in Yangon Region in late 2011 by researchers at the Department of Medical Research (Lower Myanmar). Subsequent tests showed that the sushi was contaminated with Escherichia coli better known as E.coli and other bacteria that can cause diarrhoea and food poisoning. The research showed that samples from supermarkets generally had higher levels of bacteria contamination than those from restaurants and sushi bars, with 91.7pc of supermarket samples showing unsatisfactory levels of coliform bacteria. Restaurants fared the best with 44pc of samples exceeding satisfactory levels, while 55pc of sushi bar samples failed the test. One of the research scientists involved in the survey, who asked not to be named, attributed the high levels of bacteria to a lack of hygiene during preparation, including unclean raw materials and kitchen utensils and poor personal hygiene of the person doing the preparation. Supermarket samples were more likely to have high coliform bacteria and E. coli contamination, the researcher said.

People also believe the tree is protected by a guardian

spirit ... we dont really know how powerful it is.

More than 44 percent of samples taken from Yangon restaurants selling sushi were found to contain dangerously high levels of bacteria, a group of Yangon researchers say. Pic: Kaung Htet E. coli was the most common form of bacteria detected, appearing in 51.1pc of all samples, of which more than two-thirds had high amounts. Bacteria counts increase faster when sushi is not stored adequately, the research scientist said. Sushi should be kept at temperature of 4-8 Celsius to prevent growth of bacteria. The research showed that seafood sushi was more likely to be contaminated with E. coli but the highest counts were detected in meat sushi, especially processed meats such as ham. E. coli is a bacterium that is commonly found in the colon of humans and warm-blooded animals. It is transmitted to humans primarily through consumption of contaminated foods and some strains are harmful and can cause severe foodborne disease. According to the research, the different forms of E. coli found in the sushi samples were EAEC (found in 41.6pc), EIEC (27pc), EPEC (25pc), EHEC (5pc) and ETEC (1.6pc). While all of these can be harmful, EHEC is considered the most dangerous. E. coli infection can cause normal-to-severe diarrhoea, bloody diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, fever, vomiting and acute renal failure. In extreme cases it can be lifethreatening. These results show the importance of hygienic preparation and proper storage of sushi, the director of the Department of Health Research said. Consumers should also try to choose clean and hygienic products. His comments were echoed by a prominent liver specialist, who at a recent health seminar revealed he had been infected with E. coli late last year. Our country is far behind in terms of food hygiene, said Dr Khin Maung Win. Its obvious when we observe food stalls on the pavement in downtown areas. People should be educated about food hygiene.

These trees are at least 100 years old. They grew in this forest since my parents time. I have been here for 40 years. There are seven white silk cotton trees in our plantation but only one succeeded when we tested if they could dissolve iron, said the 67-year-old man, who asked not be named. Each day, brokers from Yangon and Mandalay travel to this quiet corner of Magwe Region to see the white silk cotton trees. The new owner of the K5 million tree said he had to watch his specimen day and night, such is its value. Traces of coconut and banana were found at the tree site on January 25, the traditional offering of brokers seeking a high price. Residents said that the present owner of the tree, which has apparently does not yet have a scientific name, has invited an offer from the richest man in Myanmar, a Yangon resident, but no deal had gone through as of January 25. This latpanphyu has been there for many years. Some people found it 14 years ago and since then it has become a kind of tourist attraction, with people coming to see it very often, said a resident of Outo. This kind of tree is very powerful and strange. Its not always successful at dissolving iron. People also believe the tree is protected by a guardian spirit and women are not allowed to touch it we dont even really know how powerful it is. Myanmar pharmacopoeias list the latpanphyu as an extremely rare species and the flower, bark and sap are thought to have medicinal properties. It is useful for urinary diseases and for women, said Dr Aung Myint, a director general of the Ministry of Healths Department of Traditional Medicine. Ive heard that latpanphyu has medicinal value. Its also a rare species. Silk cotton trees can be grown everywhere but it is very rare to find a white silk cotton tree, said a Ministry of Forestry official.

Rain expected in February as records fall

By Aye Sapay Phyu MANY parts of the country are likely to experience at least a few days of untimely rain this month, the Department of Meteorology and Hydrology said in its monthly forecast released on January 31. Tanintharyi and upper Sagaing regions and Kachin State can expect four to six rainy days, while all other parts of the country except lower Sagaing and Magwe regions and Chin, Rakhine, Kayah and Shan states are forecast to receive three to five days of rain. The convergence of warm air from the south of country and cold air from the north of the country will result in cloudy weather and isolated showers in the delta areas of Yangon, Ayeyarwady and Bago regions, as well as Kayah, Kayin, Mon and southern Shan states, over the next three days, a department official said on February 2. The rain came early in Myeik, however, with the Tanintharyi Region town receiving a recordbreaking 82 millimetres (3.23 inches) of rain in the 24 hours to 9:30am on January 31. The total eclipsed the old January maximum of 69 millimetres (2.72 inches), set in 2004, and was the highest recorded since the station was established 62 years ago. Easterly winds from the Gulf of Thailand brought rain to the Tanintharyi area over the past few days, the official said. However, it was not the first record in the region this month. On January 3, Tanintharyis Kawthoung received 80 millimetres (3.80 inches) of rain, smashing the old mark of 69 millimetres (2.72 inches) set in 1967. On January 14, Kyaikkami in Mon State recorded 75 millimeters (2.95 inches), beating the old record of 42 millimeters (1.65 inches) set in 1999. Meanwhile, the department also forecast below average night temperatures for Magwe, Mandalay, upper Sagaing and Yangon regions and Chin, Kachin, Kayah and Shan states. Thick fog will also be a possibility throughout the country on five to 12 days in February.

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Additional support for reform process needed: Australia

By Thomas Kean THE Australian ambassador to Myanmar has called on the international community to provide greater support for human resources development in Myanmar in order to strengthen the reform process. Ms Bronte Moules said Australia was also looking at further steps it could take to encourage reform. The reform process is just beginning. Even where there is political will, Myanmar will need to develop greater capacity to implement the necessary changes. That is why it is so important that the international community reinforces and supports the momentum for reform, Ms Moules said in a message to mark Australia Day on January 26. For prosperity to spread and benefit all Myanmars citizens, it will be important for the political and economic reforms under way to continue and to deliver tangible results for the people of the country, she said. We have reason to hope that positive developments will continue. Free and fair conduct in upcoming by-elections would continue the momentum towards democracy. She said the recent signing of a ceasefire agreement with the Karen National Union was a positive step. While there may be no quick fixes in addressing these issues, negotiating meaningful ceasefire agreements is an essential first step. It is positive to see the Myanmar government making a start on economic reform. This is a huge and important task, but this does not mean that economic reform is unachievable. Australia hopes to play a constructive role as this process develops. Australia is one of the largest aid donors to Myanmar, providing about A$50 million a year to address needs in education, health and other sectors, and Ms Moules said she hoped this will increase further. Australia is now looking at further steps we can take to support Myanmar in its democratic and broader reform process. This is an historic opportunity to deepen our bilateral relationship and people-topeople links, and Australia stands ready to move forward cooperatively. Earlier in January Australia announced it had removed members of the government from its list of sanctioned individuals and Ms Moules said Australia would keep our approach to sanctions under review.

Telenor of Norway eyes investment after FM visit

By Shwe Yinn Mar Oo NORWEGIAN mobile operator Telenor is considering investing in the telecommunications sector, less than two weeks after Norway lifted some of its sanctions against Myanmar. Mr Sigve Brekke, a member of Telenors Executive Management Committee, accompanied Norwegian Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store on his two-day visit to Myanmar and also took part in the roundtable discussion with U Soe Thein, chairman of the Myanmar Investment Commission, in Yangon on January 26. I have a delegation of Norwegian Telenor, which operates mobile telecommunication in Bangladesh, India and Thailand. They have already seriously studied opportunities in Myanmar. Thats a great opportunity for Myanmars development [for Telenor] to invest in telecommunication. Thats an important driver of change, the foreign minister told journalists following a one-hour discussion at Traders Hotel in Yangon. The previous day, Mr Store met President U Thein Sein in Nay Pyi Taw and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at her house in Yangon. Norway announced it would lift sanctions against Myanmar after the government released more than 600 prisoners, including a large number of prominent activists, in an amnesty on January 13. I come from a country that is ready to stand up and support the transformation of Myanmar. The progress is irreversible and fragile so it is the responsibility of friends in the outside world to come to Myanmar and support [reform]. My message is that the process of reform should continue, he said. Norway is ready to share its experience and resources to ensure that efforts toward economic reform, industrial reform, job creation and peace and reconciliation between groups inside Myanmar are successful, Mr Store said. We today encourage Norwegian industries and services to engage in Myanmar. They have to make their own choice, he said. Myanmar has to have its own plan and strategy to make sense of that assistance. He also said it was absolutely critical that the April 1 by-elections were free, fair and transparent. If that occurred, sanctions would likely be lifted completely, he said. U Soe Thein, who is also Minister for Industry, told the Norwegian foreign minister that the elections would be free and fair. He said the government was doing its best to meet the demands of the international community. As chairman of the investment commission I must protect investors and dont want to change policies again and again. I am also taking care of the environment and social impacts. The profit is the second priority, said U Soe Thein. The Telenor boss Mr Sigve Brekke said at the roundtable that Myanmar needed to improve its investment regulations and framework to attract more foreign companies. You need to be [focused on the] long term [benefits] not a quick win. You need to be in a partnership with local investors or another type of partnership, Mr Brekke said. The Oslo-based mobile company started investing in Asia 15 years ago and, according to Wikipedia, Telenor is one of the largest mobile phone operators in the world, with 203 million subscribers at the end of 2010.

Company to launch hotel room booking site

TRAVEL company Global Union Express and Credent Technology plan to launch a website in April that would allow internet users outside the country to book hotel rooms online, Global Union managing director U Zaw Naing said last week. Visitors often cant find a hotel when they arrive in Myanmar and then they have to waste time, energy and cash. Using our website, visitors can search and choose from a database of hotels, he said. He said the portal would accept payments made by Visa, MasterCard and bank transfer via a bank account in Singapore. We will also open an international bank account so customers can transfer money to pay for a booking, after which we will send a confirmation receipt, he said. We can establish this website in a month but it will take longer to open the bank account and sign contracts with the hotels. Shwe Yee Saw Myint

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An advertisement for hostel accommodation in the busy Hledan area of Kamaryut township. Pic: Yadanar

Media workshop a model of free speech, say participants

By Yadana Htun PARTICIPANTS at a two-day workshop on media freedom last week commended all involved for encouraging free and open discussions. The workshop, titled Media Development in a Democratic Society, was jointly organised by the Myanmar Writers and Journalists Association (MWJA) and the Singapore-based Asian Media Information and Communication Centre (AMIC). It was held at Inya Lake hotel on January 30 and 31 and attended by a number of prominent local and foreign journalists. Altogether more than 170 people from local and exile media groups, international news agencies, nongovernment organisations and the press departments of embassies in Myanmar attended the workshop. On the first day of the workshop, 11 presentations were given on three topics: media related laws responding to the internet age; disseminating public information in a democratic society; and journalists perspectives on medias role in a democracy. The second day gave participants the chance to discuss the presentations and the issues raised. Daw Tin Htar Swe, head of the BBCs Burmese service, said participants expressed their difficulties openly and she believed the event would lead to greater media freedom. [The workshop will] help the struggling local journalists to do their jobs more freely, she said. We mainly discussed how to improve media development and freedom and that Myanmar media should get more rights than what they are getting now if its role is in a democratic country. She said that there should be more workshops to develop the media industry. I understand that this [event] was the first of its kind. Through the workshops, journalists can openly tell and discuss their difficulties and barriers in their works. So its very supportive, she said. U Aung Hla Tun, a correspondent with news agency Reuters, said he hoped for more opportunities to discuss the media situation in the future. Ive been working as a journalist for about 20 years and Ive never seen a workshop like this with the words media freedom; before it was taboo in our society. But we are not strangers to democracy. Once we were born with democracy but it only lasted in Myanmar for a decade, from 1948 to 1962. As a journalist, I wonder why democracy didnt last long though we got it early. What responsibilities did we journalist have for this? Did we fail our duty as a watchdog? What should we do so this situation doesnt happen again? I really wanted to discuss these kinds of topics. Though its the first workshop, its not too late. Its better late than never, he said. U Than Lwin Htun, the chief of VOAs Burmese service, agreed last weeks discussions would be beneficial for the entire media industry. It will be helpful for Myanmar media if the foreign speakers are able to present the media situation in their countries visibly their experiences can inspire to us, said, U Than Lwin Htun, who gave a presentation titled Media Development and Role of Media in Peace Building.

Accommodation costs rise after service charge increases

By Aung Kyi THE start of 2012 has brought an unwelcome rise in living costs, particularly short-term accommodation, residents and real estate industry sources in Yangon say. The rise seems to have been prompted by the governments decision to raise electricity and petrol prices from January 1. No official figures have been released to confirm the cost of living increase, however. The most recent figures from the Central Statistical Organisation show the consumer price index rose only 0.2 percent in the first 10 months of 2011. Landlords in Yangon are charging up to 30pc more for people staying at hostels, mostly because of the 30pc rise in electricity charges, said Ma Aye Aye Win, a resident of a boarding house in the Hledan area of Kamaryut township. Starting from January we have to pay K20,000 each for a small space measuring 6 feet by 10 feet. It used to be only K15,000, Ma Aye Aye Win said. I get only K80,000 a month working at a tailor shop so Im spending about 25pc of my income on accommodation. The government also raised water supply and garbage collection charges, as well as train fares, from the start of 2011, according to local media reports. We will have to pay more for our electricity, water supply and garbage collection bills to the Yangon City Development Committee so we have to raise the hostel charges to cover the rising costs, said U Win Naing, a landlord in Hledan. Soon after the changes were announced, some landlords in Yangon also started raising rents on apartments, said U Zaw Zaw from Unity Real Estate. He said this was unfair because, unlike at hostels, tenants pay the electricity, water and garbage collection fees. Some owners are asking an extra 20-30pc because they think that as service costs [such as electricity and water] have risen then commodity prices will soon follow. They say they are trying to cover themselves for a rise in inflation and general living costs, U Zaw Zaw said. But price rises happen sometimes just because the brokers push the landlord to put up the rent so the tenants move. They can then get another broker fee from whoever moves in. Migrant worker Daw Win Mar said the owner of the 600square-foot apartment she rents in Ahlone township had asked for K80,000 a month, up from K60,000, to renew the lease, which expires in February. Daw Win Mar shares the seventh-floor apartment and the rental fee with three other migrant workers. However, she said paying the higher rent would be difficult on their K70,000 to K90,000-a-month salaries, particularly when they have to pay six months upfront. Basically we have to find more money to rent an apartment for another six months even though our salaries are the same, said Daw Win Mar, who is originally from Magwe Region and works in Bogyoke Market. We will also have to pay about K10,000 extra for electricity because the government increased the unit rate from K25 to K35 from January. She said there was little chance of finding a cheaper apartment close to downtown. We do not have many choices and apartments on the seventh floor are the cheapest. If we cant find enough money well have to move to a hostel where we can pay by the month, she said. The increase in living costs was most likely to affect migrant workers, said U Aung Myint, who runs a language school in Tarmwe township. So many young people from other parts of the country come to Yangon in the hope of finding a way to go abroad and work.

UN sees new opportunities in Myanmar

By Thomas Kean THE United Nations sees a new window of opportunity to further tighten relations with the government and support its efforts towards socio-economic progress, the new UN resident and humanitarian coordinator said last week. The opportunities are growing every day and with it we welcome the operational space that will grow with it. The UN country team sees this as a new window of opportunity to strengthen our collaboration with the government and other partners to promote socio-economic progress in Myanmar, said Mr Ashok Nigam, who is also the UNDP resident representative. Mr Nigam replaced Mr Bishow Parajuli, who departed in mid2011 after heading the UN in Myanmar for about three years. Speaking at an informal gathering of local journalists at the UN compound on Natmauk Road on January 27, Mr Nigam said the media was playing an important role in Myanmars development. Changes in Myanmar are happening at an amazing pace and we have you, our media colleagues, to thank for keeping us all informed, he said. For us in the UN, we are privileged to be witnessing these changes and to be part of it. The UN country team shares the vision of the president in building the Myanmar of tomorrow. The UNs four priorities in Myanmar are encouraging inclusive growth in both rural and urban areas, increasing equitable access to quality social services, reducing vulnerability to natural disasters and climate change and promoting good governance and strengthening democratic institutions and rights, he said. In addition, we believe that it is the government and the people of Myanmar that must identify the issues in the country. We in the international community must also do our part to step up to the plate to meet the challenges and help Myanmar and its people leapfrog into the 21st century. The time is now, Mr Nigam said. In an effort to support the governments reform program, he said the UN was working with three government ministries to hold a three-day conference, from February 13 to 15. The conference, titled Development Policy Options in Myanmar (with special reference to Education and Health), is being held in collaboration with Myanmar Development Resources Institute and with support from the European Union. The conference will focus on discussing policy options and priorities and institutional reforms for accelerating inclusive human development in Myanmar. The conference will identify issues, explore critical shortfalls in policy and institutional arrangements, share experiences from countries in the Asia region, and inform future policy development, he said.

TiMESbusiness
By Martin Abbugao SINGAPORE Myanmar last week signed an agreement with Singapore seeking the financial centres help as the country emerges from political and economic isolation after decades of military rule. President U Thein Sein arrived in Singapore on January 29 for a four-day state visit accompanied by a top-level delegation which included business leaders and top ministers in charge of economic portfolios. U Thein Sein met Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on January 30 and the leaders witnessed the signing by their foreign ministers of an agreement under which Singapore will provide training for reforms in the legal, banking and financial sectors. The pact also calls on Singapore to share its best practices in trade, tourism and urban planning. With the West looking at easing sanctions and businesses closely watching sweeping democratic reforms in the formerly military-run country, Myanmar needs to prepare for an anticipated increase in investments and tourism, analysts said. Weakened by half a century of military rule and economic mismanagement, Myanmar nevertheless has rich natural resources, including gold, gas, teak, oil, jade and gems and a large pool of low-cost labour. The Southeast Asian state also boasts of a host of tourism attractions

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Myanmar seeks Singapores help on economy

financial centre and a favourite hub for global companies, is often seen as a model by its neighbours. After nearly five decades of outright army rule in Myanmar, a nominally civilian government took power last year and has since surprised outside observers with its apparent scope and pace of reforms. U Thein Sein, a former prime minister and an exgeneral who was a member of the junta, was elected president by parliament in February last year after the November 2010 elections. Myanmar and Singapore are members of ASEAN, which also includes Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. Aekapol Chongvilaivan, an analyst with the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies, said regional economies must help Myanmar push ahead with democratic reforms. Singapore really needs to push Myanmar because Myanmar needs to play a more important role in ASEAN ... The financial area is one major avenue that Singapore can contribute to, Aekapol told AFP. I think now Myanmar has already set the stage for economic and political transformation. An orchid was named after U Thein Seins wife, Daw Khin Khin Win during the visit. U Thein Sein had an orchid named after him when he visited Singapore in 2009 as prime minister. AFP

President U Thein Sein and his wife Daw Khin Khin Win (left) and and Singapore President Tony Tan and his wife Mary Tan after the welcoming ceremony at the presidential palace in Singapore on January 30. Pic: AFP with its appealing colonial architecture, picturesque temples and golden beaches. If all goes well, Myanmar certainly looks forward to being welcomed from the political wilderness, said Song Seng Wun, a regional economist with Malaysian bank CIMB. It looks like the Burmese are in a hurry to catch up in the shortest possible time, he told AFP. Myanmar will likely tap Singapores expertise in financial services, Song said. After so many years of isolation, their capacity to handle the expected inflow of investments and set up the much-needed regulatory frameworks have to be brought up to scratch as quickly as possible. A Southeast Asian diplomat also told AFP that Myanmar needs to train accountants, bankers and other people with technical skills as well as in corporate governance. Singapore is the logical place where it can seek help, said the diplomat, who asked not to be named. Singapore, a regional

Open door Myanmar offers 8-year tax break to foreign firms

DAVOS, Switzerland Myanmars government said last week it planned to offer eight-year tax exemptions to foreign investors as Western companies rushed to build ties with the one-time international pariah. Minister for Industry U Soe Thein told reporters there had been huge interest in Myanmar from business leaders he had met at the World Economic Forum in Davos as the Southeast Asian countrys reform process gathers pace. They are rushing to us, he said. We are just opening the door. The minister said that Myanma r e x p e c t e d i t s economy to grow by 6 percent in the coming year and that it should be an attractive location to foreign investors citing as proof his successful visit to Davos. I have met with a lot of people not just ministers but CEOs. We have engaged with them, explained our potential, our location at the junction of China and India. Our location is very favourable. We have a lot of hydro potential, we have lots of fishing potential, a big fisheries area. Also our people know the English language, it is easy to communicate, he said. Deputy railways minister U Lwin Thaung said the government was looking to enact radical legislation to attract investors. Presently we have a Myanmar investment law which is rather restrictive, but we are now revising it, he said. We have hired foreign consultants ... and we have told them to draw up the law so as to be more attractive than our neighbours. It will give tax exemptions for up to eight years and, if the enterprise is profitable for Myanmar, we will extend the incentive. We have already drafted the bill ... and at the end of February the law will come out. The European Union is considering lifting sanctions against Myanmar as soon as February, said diplomats in Brussels, while Washington has promised further reforms will be rewarded by the US. A few Western corporations such as French oil giant Total have a presence because the sanctions framework permitted firms that were already operating in the country at the time they were imposed in the 1990s to stay. U Soe Thein said Myanmar had significant gas reserves along its west coast, and was already supplying China and Thailand. It also had major potential for rice exports, he added. The invitation for the ministers to Davos was yet another sign of how Myanmar is being brought in from the cold since a nominally civilian government took over last year and then opened talks with opposition leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton paid a landmark visit to Myanmar in December and afterwards moved to restore full diplomatic relations. U Lwin Thaung, however, denied that sanctions had been a factor in the reform process. Our political reforms are not connected to the pressure from the outside. It is what is good for the people, good for the country and for the whole world community, he said. AFP

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Myanmar relaxes foreign currency exchange controls

YANGON Myanmars government last week relaxed rules on legitimate money exchangers, allowing them to swap up to US$10,000 into kyat without documentation for citizens. Under the previous rules, Myanmar nationals with identity cards could only buy or sell a maximum of $2000 daily at official foreign exchange outlets. Those seeking to exchange more than $2000 needed to provide evidence of how they had acquired the foreign currency. As of February 1, the limit was raised to $10,000 without documentation, bank sources said. The exchange rate on February 1 was K820 to the dollar, compared with the black market rate of K810. However, some customers complained that the official money exchanges had run out of kyat. I wanted to sell $3000 but the counter told me to come back tomorrow because they had already bought too many dollars, said one disgruntled dollar-holder who declined to be named. Regulations for foreigners were also relaxed on February 1. Exchange counters at Yangon International Airport were allowed to change a maximum of $200 into kyat for each foreigner in December. By mid-January, the maximum had been raised to $500 and as of February 1 it was raised to $2000. The relaxations on foreign exchange are part of the governments efforts to keep more currency in the banking system and out of the black market, bank sources said. Deustche Presse-Agentur

Govt reforms expected to bring new FDI

manufacturing, electronics, pharmaceuticals, garments, hotels and tourism. Deputy director of the Ministry for National Planning and Economic Development U Aung Naing Oo said between four and 10 foreign delegations approached MIC every day. Not many companies have reached the stage where they have put in project proposals to the government yet but Ive heard that many of them have starting searching for land and begun to make other preparations, he said. The MIC official added that there would be huge amounts of FDI flowing into Myanmar in the 2012-13 fiscal year, which begins on April 1. He added that one sector that had not received enough investor attention was the manufacturing industry, which was still hobbled by sanctions imposed by Western nations. Now, our relationships with Japan and the West are getting better and I think we can expect to see greater investment flowing into our manufacturing and services sectors, not just resources, he said. Dr Mg Aung, an economist and former-senior researcher of economic studies at the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industrys Research Institute, said possible investments by Japans electronics and automotive firms could create thousands of jobs and transfer technology to domestic firms. Obviously, manufacturingbased investments would be geared towards exports, which would improve our gross domestic product and reduce poverty, he said. Political commentator Maung Wuntha said FDI is hugely important for developing countries but the government had to carefully overview projects to ensure they did not damage the country. He said the lifting of EU sanctions depended on the governments release of prisoners of conscience and added that he hoped FDI would follow soon after sanctions were eased. U Zaw Min Win, a UMFCCI vice president, said the government should prioritise FDI spending on industry, which would have the most flow-on effect on domestic companies.

A foreign tourist changes money at an official Foreign Exchange Counter on Thein Byu Road in Yangon last week. Pic: Kaung Htet

ECONOMISTS expect the governments efforts since it took power last March to unlock the economy will pay dividends in terms of attracting new foreign direct investment. Since July last year a flood of business delegations from neighbouring countries and even some from Western nations have met members of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) and the Myanmar Investment Commission (MIC). An MIC official said the sectors attracting greatest foreign interest included automobile

Black market gasoline price falls

By Juliet Shwe Gaung BLACK market petrol (gasoline) prices in Yangon have fallen by about 25 percent since the first week of January as private fuel stations have started to sell more fuel outside Yangon, roadside sellers said last week. By the end of January black market fuel was selling for about K3500 a gallon (4.55 litres), down from the K4700 a gallon it reached on January 3, after the government raised the price of rationed gasoline from K2500 to K3350 on January 1. A black market fuel seller in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township said the introduction of electronic smart cards late last year had seriously curtailed the amount of fuel that drivers sold to the black market. He added that the price difference between ration gasoline and octane had narrowed to the point where there was little point in on-selling. Drivers would sell gasoline to us for about K3700 a gallon, while the official price of rationed fuel outside of Yangon was at least K3500, he said. This means there is more fuel going to other regional towns and cities, he said. Were only buying about four barrels [50 gallons] of gasoline a day, when we used to buy up to 30, the black market seller in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township said. With motorists only making K150 a gallon for on-selling fuel, many have stopped bothering. Ko Thet, an engineer who lives in Sanchaung township and owns a gasoline-powered car, said that because he does not drive much he still sells about 2 gallons from the 6 gallons he buys every three days. U Thin Soe, a car broker who recently imported a gasolinepowered car with a 2 litre engine, said he had not bothered to apply for a smart card and bought octane fuel instead, which costs about K3650 a gallon. My car runs better on octane and its only a little bit more expensive to buy, he said. However, U Tun Win, a taxi driver who operates a gasoline-powered car, said he preferred to buy as much regular gasoline as he could. Octane fuel doesnt last as long as regular gasoline but I have to buy about 1 gallon of octane every day in addition to the 2 gallons of gasoline, he said. One blackmarketeer in Tarmwe township said he was only buying about two barrels of fuel a day and was leaving the business. Im closing my shop in a few days time because I cant even sell the fuel that I have bought for K3500 a gallon, he said, adding that the profit margins were too low to continue, particularly since he still had to bribe police to operate. However, the seller in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township said he had regular buyers from towns in Ayeyarwady Region such as Myaungmya and Maubin, and Kyauktan and Kayan in Yangon Region where private fuel stations had not yet been established. He said roadside sellers could still buy fuel from government officials who get gasoline quotas. He added that he would also like to set up a legitimate filling station and had applied to the relevant ministries, township officials and the fire department for approval. Ministry of Commerce statistics show that the government imported US$1 billion in fuel oil from April 2011 to January 2012, up from $540 million from April 2010 to January 2011.

Trade volume tipped to jump 30 percent

By Aye Thidar Kyaw THE national trade volume for the 2011-12 fiscal year is expected to grow by more than 30 percent as a result of trade policy changes, Ministry of Commerce officials said last week. Ministry statistics show the trade volume in the previous fiscal year amounted to $12 billion but that is expected to rise to about $16.1 billion this year. By January the volume of trade had already reached $14 billion. A ministry official said the likely rise would be driven by increased spending on imports associated with huge foreignbacked infrastructure projects as well as imports of automobiles, fuel and palm oil, which had been restricted markets for many years. He added that cuts to export taxes on some key commodities to 2pc from 10pc were expected to push export volumes higher as well. Commerce Minister U Win Myint said during a meeting with government officials in Nay Pyi Taw on January 30 that imports were likely to outweigh exports for the year. By January, the value of imports stood at $7.3 billion, while exports were worth $7.1 billion and were made by mainly natural gas, fisheries products, rice, minerals and beans and pulses. He added that the ministry would work to explore new export markets and strategies in February in an effort to reduce the trade deficit. A Directorate of Trade official, under the Ministry of Commerce, said in the past 12 months the government had made efforts to move away from the business sector. The government has eased its control of a number of sectors and opened them up to the private companies, which has increased competition, he said. That has reduced the level of illegal trading as well, he said, referring to measures announced on December 9 to allow legal imports of five types of foodstuffs, such as fruit juice, seasoning powder, instant noodles, canned food and biscuits.

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while boosting competition for Thailand, Vietnam and India. The projected gain may make Myanmar the worlds sixth-largest shipper this year, with volumes at the highest level since the 1960s, when the country was the worlds largest exporter, showed data from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). Myanmar coming into the market will take away some markets from Thailand, worsening Thai rice exports, said Vichai Sriprasert, honorary president of Thai Rice Exporters Association. In the long run, Myanmar has the potential to become the top exporter because of its fertile land and water. The price of 100 percent grade-B rice from Thailand, a benchmark variety from the largest exporter, plunged 18pc from a three-year high in November to US$546 a tonne on January 18. Rough rice traded on the Chicago Board of Trade, which was at $14.49 for 100 pounds (about economic frontier if it takes advantage of its natural resources, young labour force and proximity to China and India, the International Monetary Fund said on January 25. The country, which shares borders with US and Europe to reassess sanctions against the former military government. The country is the most promising Asian market as the government reforms the political system in a nation that has ample natural resources, investor Jim Rogers said in November. While domestic consumption accounts for 11.5 million to 12 million tonnes a year, total milledrice output may increase 11pc to 13.5 million tonnes in the year that started in October, and climb to 15.5 million tonnes over the next three years, the association said in an email. Target markets for white-rice sales are Africa, Indonesia and the Philippines, it said. The increase in planting was driven by a government policy of buying rough rice at about 10pc above the market rate, said the association. The program started in about the middle of January, it said. Global rice stockpiles may gain 3pc to 100.1 million tonnes in 2011-2012, the highest level since the season ended 2003, as worldwide output increases 2.5pc to a record 461.4 million tonnes, showed projections by the USDA. Myanmar has agreed to sell 200,000 tonnes of white rice to Bulog, Indonesias state food agency, the association said in a separate statement on January 29. They will be the first exports to Indonesia in more than 10 years, it said. Bloomberg

MyanMar tiMes

Myanmars to double rice exports: MRIA

By Supunnabul Suwannakij YANGON Rice exports from Myanmar may more than double to 1.5 million tonnes this year, an industry group has forecast, highlighting the countrys potential to boost overseas trade as the government pursues reform. As the government starts to buy production at abovemarket prices to encourage greater planting, shipments may increase to as much as 2 million tonnes next year and reach 3 million tonnes by 2015, said the Myanmar Rice Industry Association. Exports totalled 700,000 tonnes in 2011. An advance in exports may bolster global stockpiles,

has the potential to Myanmar top exporter because become the of its fertile land and water.
49 kilograms) in Singapore on January 18, has lost 2.5pc this year. Prices have declined as India resumed exports of non-basmati rice after a four-year ban. Myanmar has the potential to become the Asias next the worlds two mostpopulous nations, may grow 5.5pc in 2011-2012, the IMF said. Myanmar President U Thein Sein has been releasing dissidents and engaging with the opposition, prompting the

Illegal shrimp imports a concern, says MFF

By Soe Sandar Oo ILLEGAL Thai shrimp imports entering Yangon from the border are undercutting domestically produced goods by about 20 percent, a Myanmar Fisheries Federation official said last week. U Win Kyaing, the federations general secretary, said processed shrimp was entering Myanmar through the recently reopened Myawaddy-Mae Sot border trading point to Yangon. From there it is sold at the San Pya fish market in Kyeemyindaing township, the biggest wholesale market for fisheries goods in Yangon, and distributed throughout the city. A shrimp farmer based in Ayeyarwady Region said the quality of the illegally imported shrimp was lower than domestically produced goods but it was also considerably cheaper, which made it attractive to many buyers. Local companies find it tough to compete against Thai imports because they are cheaper, which is an important consideration for many consumers, he said. We have informed the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries of our concerns on this matter on January 23, and they are working on this now, said U Win Kyaing. If foreign investment comes and but domestically produced goods cannot compete with imports from Thailand, theres a good chance that the local companies will cease to exist, said U Win Kyaing. He warned that the government could attempt to stem the flow of imported shrimp now but would not be allowed to do so in 2015 when the ASEAN Free Trade Area came into effect. This is one example of what we will face in coming years and companies need to start preparing for increased competition now, he added.

Trade Mark CauTIon

SCG Trading Company Limited, a company incorporated in Thailand, of 1 Siam Cement Road, Bangsue Sub-district, Bangsue District, Bangkok, Thailand, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

reg. no. 11130/2011 in respect of Intl Class 19: Fiber cement board, poly carbonate sheet, plastic board, aluminum composite panel, metal spandrel, ceiling and wall decorated accessories. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for SCG Trading Company Limited P. O. Box 60, Yangon. Dated: 6th February, 2012

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AusAID - 5 Vacancies The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) is the Australian Government's agency responsible for managing Australia's overseas aid program. The objective of the aid program is to assist developing countries reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development. AusAID is seeking to recruit the following four on-going positions for its office at the Australian Embassy: Administrative Officer (US$10,200 - $11,820 per annum) Senior Program Officer - Scholarships (US$13,344 - $15,456 per annum) Program Manager - Corporate and Effectiveness (US$44,592 - $51,636 per annum) Senior Program Manager - Education <US$59,400 - $68,772 per annum) AusAID is also accepting applications for the following expected vacancy: Senior Program Officer - Health/Education (US$13,344 - $15,456 per annum) The duty statements can be obtained from the Australian Embassy, 88 Strand Road, Yangon, Myanmar, or at the Australian Embassy website: http://www. burma.embassy.gov.au/rang/aboutus.html Closing date for the applications will be 4PM (Rangoon time) February 22, 2012.

Dawei developer seeks funding

BANGKOK The clay model of Myanmars ambitious Dawei deepsea port and special economic zone sprawls across a long table on the 43rd floor of the headquarters of ItalianThai Development Pcl. Glossy posters hail it as the new global gateway of IndoChina. But moving ahead with the first phase of the project is proving slow, despite the dramatic reforms sweeping Myanmar and the gradual lifting in Western sanctions as the former British colony emerges from half a century of isolation a prospect underlined on January 23 by plans by the European Union to ease some punitive measures. In a rare interview, a senior executive at ItalianThai Development outlined on January 23 the companys far reaching plans for a project that would transform the wild scrubland of southern Myanmar into Southeast Asias largest industrial complex. In a country where a third of its 60 million people live on less than US$1 a day, Dawei is striking in its ambition. Superhighways, steel mills, power plants, shipyards, refineries, pulp and paper mills and a petrochemical complex are part of the $50 billion project, as are two golf courses and a holiday resort all strategically nestled between rising powers India, China and Southeast Asia with a port on the Andaman Sea. The company hopes to secure $8.5 billion by yearend to finance infrastructure and utilities under the first phase of the project, and is confident it will find partners, but it also acknowledges that convincing investors remains tough, particularly given Myanmars low level of infrastructure, visa restrictions and urgent need for currency reforms. Somchet Thinaphong, managing director of Dawei Development Co, controlled by ItalianThai, told Reuters the first phase of construction roads, a telecoms network, utilities and a port would be completed within three-and-a-half years, along with a power plant, but it remains unclear what energy source the plant would use. Myanmars government abruptly halted construction of a 4000 megawatt coalfired power plant on January 10, citing environmental concerns. Somchet said its power plant partner, Ratchaburi Electricity Generating Holding Pcl, would decide on fuel type within three months, including the possibility of using natural gas funnelled to the site on a 50kilometre (31-mile) pipeline from fields within Myanmar. In the year to date, ItalianThai shares

Residents ride motorcycles down the main street in Dawei, which will house a special economic zone and deepsea port. Pic: Hein Latt Aung have underperformed those of its peers and the overall market due to uncertainty over the Myanmar project. We think this project is visionary. It is a door that is opening Myanmar. At the same time, Myanmar has to open this door, he said. As Myanmar embarks on its most dramatic political changes since a 1962 military coup in what was then Burma, megaprojects like the 250-square-kilometre Dawei Special Economic Zone hint at a rapid acceleration in both investment and development. But Somchet also illustrated some of the challenges that vex investors in Myanmar. While they have completed construction of a road that will link Dawei to Bangkok 250km to the east, the border is not fully open due to disputes between Myanmar and Thailand over its exact demarcation. Construction of the highway was delayed last year by ethnic Karen rebels who have since signed a preliminary peace deal with the government. Customs facilities still need to be built. Somchet is confident all that will be resolved. And while the road on the Myanmar side is not yet paved, he expects that, too, to be completed in about three years, creating a stable route for transport cargo that has been sent to Dawei from the Middle East and Africa for shipping to Bangkok and beyond in Southeast Asia, bypassing the lengthy and congested Strait of Malacca. Other challenges include Myanmars dual exchange rate. While the currency is pegged at six kyat to a dollar, it changes hands unofficially at rates more than 120 times higher, forcing the government to seek help from the International Monetary Fund. ItalianThai is looking for partners for the various parts of the project and the main ones are likely to come from China, Japan and South Korea, he said. A quarter of Dawei Development is now held by Max Myanmar Group, owned by tycoon U Zaw Zaw, whose close ties to the Myanmar government put him on the US targeted sanctions list in 2009. A November 15, 2007, U.S. diplomatic cable described Zaw Zaw as an up and coming crony. That might have been a problem last year, when some potential partners, according to Somchet, were reluctant to express their interest in the project publicly for fear of upsetting business allies in the United States. But since US Secretary of State Hillary Clintons visit to Myanmar in December, the mood has changed dramatically, he said. Although he has had no major expressions of interest in the project by Western investors, potential Asian partners are decidedly more open. Somchet said he met recently with Japanese Trade and Industry Minister Yukio Edano, for instance. ItalianThai hopes Dawei could be a location for Japanese firms to build parts to be used at car manufacturing plants in neighbouring Thailand, among other uses. An investment roadshow in South Korea is scheduled for late February. Thailands top lender, Bangkok Bank, is advising on the power project and Siam Commercial Bank on the whole project. Reuters

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a Japanese governmental organization mainly responsible for implementing Official Development Assistance (ODA) in developing countries such as Technical Cooperation, ODA Loans and Grant Aid, Myanmar Office is seeking a Programme Assistant and an Administrative Assistant for its expanded works in Myanmar. (1) Job Description for Programme Assistant: The Programme Assistant will work closely with Prgramme Officers and be responsible for:- assisting in Planning, Implementation, Monitoring & Evaluation of Development Projects and Programs - organizing Seminars and Workshops - undertaking Public Relations Activities - assisting in data collection, compilation, data analysis and writing reports - handling operation and logistic matters Eligible candidate for Program Assistant should possess following qualifications; - University Graduate - Fluent in English (reading, writing, speaking) - Age less than 45 years - Good relationship with Myanmar governmental offices - Ability to work in a team and maintain harmonious relationship with other staff - More than 5 years of working experience in the organization/s - Good computer skills and knowledge of Word, Excel & Power Point (2) Job Description for Administrative Assistant: The Administrative Assistant will work closely with respective Japanese Staff and Administrative Officer and be responsible for:- assisting in administrative management and general affairs in the office - assisting in operation of NGO/JICA-Japan Desk including library and meeting facilities - assisting in office IT management - handling operation and logistic matters Eligible candidate for Administrative Assistant should possess following qualifications; - University Graduate - Fluent in both Japanese and English (reading, writing, speaking) - Age less than 45 years - Ability to work in a team and maintain harmonious relationship with other staff - More than 5 years working experience in the organization/s - Good computer skills and knowledge of Word, Excel & Power Point (having experience in Computer Networking will be a distinct advantage) Duration of Assignment: From the first week of March 2012 (negotiable). yearly renewal upon satisfactory performance How to apply: Qualified and interested persons are requested to send the applications with updated C.V, educational credentials and references to JICA Myanmar Office, Room 701, 7th Floor, Sakura Tower, No. 339, Bokyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada Township. Yangon, not later than 5:00 p.m., 17 February 2012. Note: Only short listed candidates will be contacted for subsequent interviews.

Domestic gold Banks boost interest rates on savings accounts price to rise
By Aung Kyi SEVERAL banks, both private and government-owned, last week increased the interest paid on savings accounts back to 10 percent, from 8pc, in order to bring customers back. The Central Bank of Myanmar on January 1 allowed private banks to lower interest rates from 10pc to 8pc if they chose. In September, the Central Bank had granted private banks the option of setting interest rates in the 10-12pc range. A senior official from Innwa Bank said: We chose to raise the interest rate for current saving accounts 10pc starting from February 1. A Myanmar Economic Bank spokesperson added that his bank had also opted to raise interest rates to 10pc. We found that many customers were withdrawing their money during January because the interest rates we were offering were too low, so we raised it back to 10pc from February 1, he said. The Central Bank also lowered interest charged on loans to 13pc, from 15pc, on January 1. U Aung Kyaw, the owner of an import/ export company in Yangon, said the interest rate reduction in loans was useful but failed to address the difficulty of getting loans. We welcome the news that loan interest rates were cut by 2pc in January but its still very difficult to get loans in the first place because there are so many rules and regulations, he said. Banks only allow loans to businessmen that own land or real estate, he added. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a press release following its recently completed Article IV Mission via the state-run New Light of Myanmar newspaper on January 25 that touched on the need to expand the accessibility of credit, particularly to farmers. Improvements to financial intermediation should begin by phasing out the deposit-to-capital ratio and expanding the list of collateral, including to all crops. Expansion of bank networks, especially in rural areas, is essential to increase access to finance. Nurturing a stronger commercial banking culture requires price competition. Interest rate liberalisation started with some freedom in setting deposit rates, and should be extended to loan products, the IMF press release said. By Aung Kyi GOLDSMITHS and business people in Yangon are predicting prices of the precious metal to continue rising in line with international markets. International prices have climbed by about 10 percent in the past month, from US$1563 an ounce on January 2 to $1740 on February 1. In Yangon the increase has been only about 5pc K694,000 a tical (16.25 grams or 0.576 ounces) to K730,000 in the same period, goldsmiths said last week. The domestic gold price has only been 5pc against the 10pc seen on international markets because the US dollar has strengthened to K823 a dollar from K805 on January 2, said businessman U Tun Naing. He predicted that prices would continue to rise in coming weeks and might even reach the record high of K780,000, which was set on September 20. But U Khine Win, the manager of a goldsmiths shop in Latha township, said the domestic gold price was also affected by demand and people with money were more interested in other commodities. Most businesspeople in Yangon are investing their money in car trading or the property market, so there has been little interest in gold.

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Yadanar Myaing Construction companys Green Lake condominium project in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township. Pic: Kaung Htet

Take up of hire purchases slow: developers

By Noe Noe Aung AFTER an initial burst of enthusiasm, developers say the hire purchase system has not gained much traction with customers. Customers are not comfortable with this method of purchasing properties yet, said U Aung Tun, the owner of MTP construction in Kyauktada township. The hire purchase system was unveiled in October to applause by developers but even then there were warnings that it, like instalment payment plans that were rolled out several years ago, might not prove as popular with clients as intended. Only 1 or 2 percent of our sales in the past two months have been hire purchase deals. Most buyers still dont like the idea of buying an apartment by instalment and those that can pay cash, U Aung Tun said. He said the main factor leading to the slow take-up of the hire purchase system is a lack of knowledge among the public. Many people know nothing of the hire purchase system only a small percentage of the people who live in the big cities even know it exists and even fewer people know how it works, he said. MTP Construction began offering hire purchase payment plans to customers in conjunction with Kanbawza Bank for all of its apartment buildings in Yangon from December, he said. This is still the beginning and people are fumbling with the idea of buying by hire purchase, U Aung Tun said. He added that it would take time for awareness of the system to spread. Customers have to pay 30 percent downpayment on the total purchase price. The remaining 70 percent will be paid monthly over two years. He added that interest of 10pc on the total cost of the apartment is charged, with the builder paying half. MPT offers apartments priced between K35 million and K100 million. I think interest in the system will increase because bank interest rates are coming down, U Aung Tun said. And U Tin Tun, the manager of Yadanar Myaing Construction in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township, said that although the hire purchase system offered incentives to buyers, developers and the banks, it had so far failed to capture much interest from buyers. [The] bank pays the money instead of buyers. That means the company generates cashflow, the buyer gets to live in their own apartment sooner than they would normally expect and the banks get to build up their loan portfolios, he said. But some buyers doubt that the system really offers them any benefits because they dont understand how it works, he added. Yadanar Myaing began offering hire purchases with Kanbawza Bank in December. Hire purchases are slowly gaining attention but Im not disappointed, U Tin Tun said. He added that hire purchase sales will be included in the companys Green Lake condominium project in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township. U Tin Tun said the development would act as a test case for the company if it was deemed successful it would be offered on further developments in future. I know it will take a while for this system to be understood by buyers, said U Tin Tun. Some people really cant understand how it works, even if we explain to them repeatedly how it works and assure them that there are no pitfalls, he added. Yadanar Myaing has priced the Green Lake apartments from K100-300 million, he added.

Developers push safety inspections for 20-30 year old buildings

By Htar Htar Khin DEVELOPERS are urging residents and owners of buildings erected during a construction boom in the late 1980s and early 90s to seek structural assessments of the safety of their apartments following a massive explosion in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township in late December. On January 4 a building in the same township partially collapsed and developers say there could be more such incidents because contractors made potentially dangerous shortcuts during a shortlived construction boom. U Lazarus, the managing director of Yadanar Shwe Htun Construction in Botahtaung township, said buildings between 25 and 30 years of age should be inspected by structural engineers. Weve found a number of buildings between 25 and 30 years old that have structural flaws, he said last week. In my experience there were a number of shortterm contractors building apartment complexes at the time who ignored quality control. Building inspections were rare during that time and a number of companies used cheap, lowgrade materials, U Lazarus said. The state-run Mirror and Myanmar Ahlin newspapers both ran stories on February 1 that documented the partial collapse of a 24-yearold building in Mingalar Taung Nyunt. The collapse was blamed on poor quality bricks. U Lazarus said the Yangon City Development Committee, developers and structural engineers needed to work together to inspect the citys old buildings. Its the right time to do a wide ranging study of apartment buildings in Yangon that fall into that age bracket. Townships such as Pabedan, Kyauktada, Latha, Lanmadaw, Tarmwe, Botahtaung, Mingalar Taung Nyunt, Kyeemyindaing and Ahlone should be the areas where we need to start, U Lazarus said, adding that both government and private sector should cooperate on the issue. U Ko Ko Lay, the director of Three Friends Construction in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township, said the December 29 explosion showed how vulnerable some buildings were. In my opinion, buildings made between 20 and 30 years ago urgently need to be examined. The December 29 explosion was fairly close to a small earthquake and only a few days later a building on 124th Street partially collapsed, he said. I dont dare think what would happen if there is a big earthquake, he said. The new Golden Hexagon Business Journal recently quoted a senior official within the Yangon Region government as saying that the government planned to conduct a safety survey of the citys buildings this year. The report said priority would be placed on buildings 30-40 years old.

A fireman keeps watch outside a building in Ahlone township after it developed cracks in midJanuary. Pic: Thet Htoo

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Prepaid SIMS return

By Htoo Aung PREPAID FEC20 SIM cards were put back on the market from January 26, a spokesperson for the company producing the cards said last week. The cards are being made by E-Lite Tech IT Services and Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications and will be sold countrywide, she said on January 26. FEC20 GSM cards are back on sale today. Customers can choose to pay in either kyat or FEC, she said. Customers need to provide a photocopy of his/ her identity card, including their address. If a foreigner wishes to buy one, he or she has to provide a copy of their passport, she said, adding that customers are limited to one card for each sale. U Thein Win, MPTs chief engineer, said the prepaid cards had been discontinued in 2010. We stopped selling FEC20 cards because the numbering machine didnt have any more capacity. I cant clearly remember exactly what the problem was, he said. Outgoing calls will be charged at FEC0.30 a minute and text messages will cost FEC0.05 each, the E-lite spokesperson said. We dont plan to produce any FEC10 cards yet, she added.

Journalists attend a Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications press conference in Pazundaung township on January 29. Pic: Htoo Aung

K5000 mobiles impossible: MPT

By Aung Kyi and Stuart Deed SHWE Pyitagon Company will continue in its efforts to sell SIM cards for K5000 each, despite Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications pouring cold water on the idea, a company official said last week. We will go on trying to get permission to sell SIM cards for K5000 each so that everyone in our country would be able to use the mobile phones at cheap prices just like people do in neighbouring countries such as Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore, said U Lwin Naing Oo, the managing director of Shwe Pyitagon, said at a press conference at Traders Hotel on January 30. Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) held a press conference in Yangon on January 29 to inform the press that the K5000 SIM cards would not eventuate. The following day MPT issued a press release through the staterun New Light of Myanmar newspaper stating it would be absolutely impossible for the Shwe Pyitagon to sell SIM cards for K5000 each. [L]ocal journals are reporting that a phone could be used at the initial installation fee of K5000 starting in March and June. A journal even writes the company will erect 2800 cellphone towers, the MPT release said. The public is informed that telephone at the price of K5000 is absolutely impossible in the time being as it takes a considerable time to establish a communication network thoroughly and the proposal is not in accordance with the existing laws in the light of analysis of MPTs chief engineers and experienced technicians, it added. The press release said MPT is working with 23 private companies in its efforts to expand the mobile network and had reduced connection fees from K1.5 million to K500,000 already and planned to reduce mobile phone installation fee as it is in neighbouring countries during the project period of five years. However, U Lwin Naing Oo said Shwe Pyitagon could reduce fees and boost infrastructure in a much shorter timeframe. We would use modernised telecommunication techniques and we would be able to make it possible in a short period, said U Lwin Naing Oo. The company would use roof-top antennas for mobile connections and the company would be able to cover Yangon and Ayeyarwady regions within six months after getting permission from the government, said Mr Hillol Roy, the companys chief wireless network architect. To reduce the poverty rate of the country, communication plays an important role, said U Lwin Naing Oo. And it is the government that has to do the investment for the basic infrastructure needs but it is not usual in other countries to take so much profit from the public to cover the investment, he added. The company has already submitted proposals to the Attorney Generals Office and the proposals might also be submitted to the hluttaws, said Dr Zaw Than, the companys communications officer.

Davos wowed by device that reads code of life in hours

By Dave Clark DAVOS, Switzerland It was the talk of Davos, grabbing the imagination of a forum otherwise shrouded in gloom: a miracle machine that cracks the code of life within hours and could revolutionise healthcare. Patients will no longer have to wait weeks to know if they have cancer and their doctors will know immediately what kind of disease they have, allowing them to target therapies precisely and to avoid harmful delays or mistakes. Health officials confronted by superbug outbreaks will be able to identify the bugs strain and begin planning treatment within hours rather than days or weeks, potentially saving thousands of lives. Soon, researchers in the developing world will take portable DNA sequencers into the field to identify new viruses and verify water quality. And police investigators will be able to develop a suspects DNA profile as quickly as their fictional counterparts do in glossy television dramas, while commandos on the battlefield will identify the bodies of friend and foe. The man behind the revolution is Jonathan Rothberg, master biotechnician and chief executive officer of Ion Torrent, owned by US firm Life Technologies, which produces the Ion Proton the worlds first desktop semiconductor-based gene sequencer. Business and political leaders at this years Global Economic Forum were gripped by pessimism over the economy, but at a summit boycotted by Mick Jagger Rothberg was received in Davos like a rockstar of science. The man himself, geekily excited in a woolly ski hat and loud striped shirt, bursts with enthusiasm for a machine that has brought the once laborious task of gene-sequencing to the era of the semi-conductor microchip. With no false modesty, he compares the revolution to the transition from the era of room-sized computing machines to desktop microprocessors, and predicts that his technology will follow the computer into laptop and hand-held forms. Its the first machine that can do an entire human genome for less than US$1000. Its the first machine than can read the genome in two hours, he told AFP in an interview in Davos. Previously machines would cost more than half a million dollars and it would take weeks to get information on your genome, he said. A genome is the complete DNA code, unique to each individual, which shapes our organism. The Proton instrument is designed to do discovery find new genes that are involved in cancer, find new genes that are involved in autism, find new genes that are involved in diabetes, he said. But its also designed to be used in a clinical practice to make sure that you give the person the right medicine or the right medicine to the right person. And to help diagnose new born children with ailments. AFP

TiMESWORLD
CAIRO A second day of clashes with Egyptian police left three protesters dead on February 3 as anger against the ruling military boiled over amid fury at the deaths of 74 people in footballrelated violence. Marchers took to the streets throughout the country to demand that the generals cede power immediately after a night of violence in several cities. Two protesters died in Cairo of tear gas inhalation after being rushed to hospital unconscious from outside the interior ministry, where clashes raged into the night. Another 20-yearold protester died in violence in the canal city of Suez. Protesters, many of them organised supporters of Cairos main football clubs known as Ultras, held up a huge banner to the police that read: Those who didnt deserve to die have died at the hands of those who dont deserve to live. Many of the dead in the football riot in the northern city of Port Said on February 1 were thought to have been supporters of the Cairo club, Al-Ahly. They were set upon by fans of the Port Said team, Al-Masry, after the Cairo side lost 3-1 as security forces did little to prevent the rioting. State television screened footage of riot police standing rigidly in rows as pandemonium erupted around them. World football governing body FIFA called for a full report on the violence while its president, Sepp Blatter, expressed his shock at a black day for football. Rocks and stones flew in all directions in Cairo on February 3 as police vans repeatedly charged before retreating. In nearby Tahrir Square nerve centre of the mass rallies that forced former president Hosni Mubarak from power a year ago thousands chanted slogans against the military junta that took power when the

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Fury in Egypt after 74 die in black day for football

president quit. The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) blamed the unrest on foreign and domestic hands targeting the country. In a statement on Facebook, it urged all political and national forces of this great nation to take a national and historic role and intervene ... to return stability. The February 1 clashes in Port Said marked one of the deadliest incidents in football history. On February 3, Egypts prosecutor general imposed a travel ban on the head of the Egyptian Football Association Samir Zaher a day after he was sacked and on former Port Said governor Mohammed Abdullah, who resigned after the clashes. This happened as security services stood by and did nothing, like they did in previous events, and perhaps they even contributed to the massacre, wrote Ibrahim Mansur, a columnist for the independent daily Al-Tahrir. This happened under the military council whose ouster the people are demanding, and who has proved that it is a failure, he said. Egyptians have become increasingly angry with the junta, which they accuse of failing to manage the country and of human rights abuses. AFP

Afghans must decide future themselves, insists Pakistani FM

Briefly
JERUSALEM Iran has enough radioactive material to produce four nuclear bombs, Israels chief of military intelligence, General Aviv Kochavi, told a conference on February 2. UNITED NATIONS A new draft of a UN Security Council resolution aimed at ending violence in Syria leaves out an explicit call for President Bashar alAssad to step down, in a concession to Russia, diplomats said on February 2. Earlier report, P. 23. KIEV The death toll from a cold snap in Europe rose to 220 on February 4, as forecasters said the big freeze would persist during the weekend. A low of minus 38 Celsius (minus 36.5F) was recorded in the Czech Republic overnight on February 3. Picture, P. 25. LONDON WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange made what could be his last appearance in any British court on February 2 as Swedish authorities warned that opposing his extradition would undermine the fast-track European Arrest Warrant system. WASHINGTON International astronomers said on February 2 they have found the fourth potentially habitable planet outside our solar system with temperatures that could support water and life about 22 light-years from Earth. STOCKHOLM Twins born in Indonesia and put up separately for adoption nearly 30 years ago, have been reunited after finding each other on Facebook, living just 40 kilometres (25 miles) apart in southern Sweden. AFP ISLAMABAD Pakistan said on February 2 it was willing to do whatever Afghans wanted to end 10 years of war with the Taliban, but insisted the process should not be led by the Americans or any other foreign power. A day after talks with President Hamid Karzai billed as a fence-mending visit designed to ease frosty ties, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar sought to refute perceptions that Islamabad was an obstacle to peace. Pakistans role in Afghanistan is regarded with deep suspicion in many Western capitals because of its long-standing ties to the Taliban, Haqqani network and other Islamist fighters, whose leaders are based in Pakistan. Were willing to do whatever the Afghans want or expect, Khar said when asked whether Pakistan was ready to push the Haqqani network towards peace talks, but stopped short of naming the group or commenting further. She said Karzai was due in Islamabad in the middle of the month and that she would travel with Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani to Qatar, where the Taliban has set up a liaison office for talks with the Americans. She said it was not in anyones interest for Afghanistan to slide back into the chaos of the past, but said Pakistan had so far not played any substantial role in the contacts there between the Americans and the Taliban. Analysts say that Kabul and Islamabad have felt sidelined by the Qatar contacts. Khar did not comment explicitly, but said it was imperative that the Afghans were central to any eventual peace process, still miles away. Who can play this central role? Not Pakistan, the US, Germany, the UK, Qataris, Saudis or anyone, it has to be the Afghans. She was determined to distance from Pakistan being in any way an independent actor in an effective peace process. It is Afghanistan to decide and as a friendly neighbour, it is our job and responsibility and will to stand strongly behind that. The only prerequisite that Pakistan has is that it should be an Afghanled, Afghan-owned and Afghan-driven, Afghanbacked process which has the ownership of Afghan people. A NATO report leaked the day of her visit and based on information from interrogations of more than 4000 captured Taliban and al-Qaeda operatives, accused Pakistans security services of still backing the Taliban. Khar said that media reports and leaks do not reflect Pakistans dialogue with NATO and the United States. Pakistan would not want to be seen to be working at counter purposes with the rest of the world, including the Westerners, NATO, ISAF, US. It will be in our interest to be able to assist them in whatever way we can, she said. She also signalled that Pakistan could soon end a more than two-month blockade on NATO supplies entering Afghanistan for foreign forces. Islamabad shut the border and ordered a review of its US alliance after air strikes killed 24 Pakistani soldiers on November 26, in what NATO and the US military later blamed on a series of mistakes by both sides. Islamabad rejects any blame for the November strikes, which brought its relationship with the United States and NATO to an all-time low. AFP

Britains Queen Elizabeth II leaves Buckingham Palace in a carriage for the annual state opening of parliament ceremony at Westminster, in a file photo taken on November 18, 2009. Britain began five months of diamond jubilee celebrations last weekend to mark the 60th anniversary of the queens accession to the throne on February 6, 1952. Pic: AFP

RP says strike killed top militants

MANILA The Philippines said it killed three of Southeast Asias top Islamic militants in a US-backed air strike on February 2. The Philippine army, aided by US advisers, launched a pre-dawn bombing raid on a remote southern island in which 15 members of the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf and Jemaah Islamiyah organisations died, military chiefs said. This is a big victory. There were three senior leaders (killed). This will have a very big impact on the capability of the terrorists, regional military commander Major General Noel Coballes told reporters. Among those the military said it killed was Zulkifli bin Abdul Hir, alias Marwan, a Malaysian accused of being a senior member of regional terror network Jemaah Islamiyah. In 2007 the US government offered a $5-million reward for his capture. The Philippine military said others to die in air raid included Filipino Abu Pula, a core leader of the Abu Sayyaf militant organisation and a Singaporean, Mohammad Ali, alias Muawiyah, another top name in Jemaah Islamiyah. Jemaah Islamiyah is accused of carrying out many deadly attacks in Southeast Asia including the Bali bombings in 2002 that killed 202 people. AFP

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The left and right of crowd dynamics

IMAGINE that you are French. You are walking along a busy pavement in Paris and another pedestrian is approaching from the opposite direction. A collision will occur unless you each move out of the others way. Which way do you step? The answer is almost certainly to the right. Replay the same scene in many parts of Asia, however, and you would probably move to the left. It is not obvious why. There is no instruction to head in a specific direction (South Korea, where there is a campaign to get people to walk on the right, is an exception). There is no simple correlation with the side of the road on which people drive: Londoners funnel to the right on pavements, for example. Instead, says Mehdi Moussaid of the Max Planck Institute in Berlin, this is a behaviour brought about by probabilities. If two opposing people guess each others intentions correctly, each moving to one side and allowing the other past, then they are likely to choose to move the same way the next time they need to avoid a collision. The probability of a successful manoeuvre increases as more and more people adopt a bias in one direction, until the tendency sticks. Whether its right or left does not matter; what does is that it is the unspoken will of the majority. That is at odds with most peoples idea of being a pedestrian. More than any other way of getting around such as being crushed into a train or stuck in a traffic jam walking appears to offer freedom of choice. Reality is more complicated. Whether stepping aside to avoid a collision, following the person in front through a crowd or navigating busy streets, pedestrians are autonomous yet constrained by others. They are both highly mobile and very predictable. These are particles with a will, says Dirk Helbing of ETH Zurich, a technology-focused university. Helbing and Moussaid are at the cutting edge of a youngish field: understanding and modelling how pedestrians behave. Its purpose is when these transitions happen is tough. Bringing a real-life situation under control once a stop-and-go pattern has started is equally hard. So the trick is to ensure that serious crowding is avoided in the first place. From big events such as the London Olympics to the design of new railway stations, engineering firms now routinely simulate the movement of people to try to spot areas where crowding is likely to occur. A typical project involves using off-the-shelf software programs to identify potential bottlenecks in a particular environment, such as a stadium or a Tube station. These models specify the entry and exit points at a location and then use routing algorithms that send people to their destinations. Even a one-off event like the Olympics has plenty of data on pedestrian movement to draw on, from past games to other set-piece gatherings such as, say, city-centre carnivals, which enable some basic assumptions about how people will flow. Once potential points of congestion are identified, more sophisticated models can then be used to go down to a finer level of detail. This second stage allows planners to change architectural designs for new locations and identify when to intervene in existing ones. There should be many fewer crowd disasters given what we now know and can simulate, says Helbing. The biggest test possible of these tools and techniques is the haj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia that Muslims are expected to carry out at least once in their lives if they can. With as many as 3m pilgrims making the journey each year, the haj has a long history of crowd stampedes and deaths. Indeed, video footage of a haj stampede is used by lots of modellers to validate their simulations of crowd turbulence. The Saudi authorities have brought in consultants in recent years, focusing in particular on the layout of the Jamarat Bridge,

Studies on the behaviour of pedestrians suggest that a European among this downtown Yangon crowd might increase the risk of a collision. Pic: Boothee into lanes that allow people to move more efficiently in opposing directions. Individuals do not have to negotiate their way through a series of encounters with oncoming people; they can just follow the person in front. That works better than trying to overtake. Research by Moussaid suggests that the effect of one person trying to walk faster than the people around them in a dense crowd is to force an opposing lane of pedestrians to split in two, which has the effect of breaking up the lane next door, and so on. Everyone moves slower as a result. Another self-organising behaviour comes when opposing flows of people meet at a single intersection: think of parents trying to shepherd their children into school as other parents, their sprogs already dropped off, try equation is horribly complex, however. One problem is allowing for cultural biases, such as whether people step to the left or the right, or their willingness to get close to fellow pedestrians. An experiment in 2009 tested the walking speeds of Germans and Indians by getting volunteers in each country to walk in single file around an elliptical, makeshift corridor of ropes and chairs. At low densities the speeds of each nationality are similar; but once the numbers increase, Indians walk faster than Germans. This wont be news to anyone familiar with Munich and Mumbai, but Indians are just less bothered about bumping into other people. Another problem with assuming people act like particles is that up to 70 percent of people in a crowd are actually in groups. That matters, as anyone trying to get past shuffling tourists knows. It also leads to some lovely fine-scale choreography when small groups are squeezed. Observations of pavement crowds in Toulouse in France show that clusters of three and four people naturally organise themselves into concave V and U shapes, with middle members falling back slightly. If a group of three people cared about moving quickly, they would behave like geese and form a convex V, with the middle member slightly in front to forge a path. Instead, they adopt a formation that enables them to keep communicating with each other; talking trumps walking. Moussaids solution to such complexity has been to build a model based less on the analogy between humans and particles and more on cognitive science. Agents in this new model are allowed to see whats in front of them; they then try to carve a free path through the masses to get to their destination. This approach produces the same effects of lane-formation in crowds as the physics-based models, but with some added advantages. In particular, boffins think it could help make emergency evacuations safer. Simulating evacuations is a big part of what pedestrian modellers do the Kings Cross underground fire in London in 1987 gave the field one of its starting shoves. One big danger in an emergency is that people will follow the crowd and all herd towards a single exit. That in turn means that the crowd may jam as too many people try to force their way through a single doorway. The physics-based models do have an answer to this problem of arching (so called for the shape of the crowd that builds up around the exit). Their simulations suggest the flow of pedestrians through a narrow doorway can be smoothed by plonking an obstacle such as a pillar just in front of the exit. In theory, that should have the effect of splitting people into more efficient lanes. In practice, however, the idea of putting a barrier in front of an emergency exit is too counter-intuitive for planners to have tried. The cognitive-science model offers a more palatable option, that of experimenting with the effects of changes in peoples visual

More than any other way of getting around such as being crushed into a train or stuck in a traffic jam walking appears to offer freedom of choice. Reality is more complicated.
not mere curiosity. Understanding pedestrian flows makes crowd events safer: knowing about the propensity of different nationalities to step in different directions could, for instance, matter to organisers of an event such as a football World Cup, where fans from various countries mingle. The odds of collisions go up if they do not share a reflex to move to one side. In a packed crowd, that could slow down lots of people. In 1995 Helbing and Peter Molnar, both physicists, came up with a social force computer model that used insights from the way that particles in fluids and gases behave to describe pedestrian movement. The model assumed that people are attracted by some things, such as the destination they are heading for, and repelled by others, such as another pedestrian in their path. It proved its worth by predicting several self-organising effects among crowds that are visible in real life. One is the propensity of dense crowds spontaneously to break to leave. As people stream through in one direction, the pressure on their side of the intersection drops. That gives those waiting on the other side more opportunity to go through, until pressure on their side is relieved. The result is a series of alternating bursts of traffic through the gates. This oscillation in flows is clever enough to have got Helbing wondering about its application to cars. Traffic-light systems currently operate on fixed cycles, with lights staying green on the basis of past traffic patterns. If those patterns are not repeated, drivers are left to idle their engines for too long at red signals, raising emissions and tempers. Helbing thinks it is better to have decentralised, local systems, whichlike parents at the school gates can respond to a build-up of traffic and keep the lights on green for longer if need be. City authorities agree: Helbings ideas will soon be implemented in Dresden and Zurich. Trying to capture every element of pedestrian movement in an

From big events...to the design of new railway stations, engineering firms now routinely simulate the movement of people to try to spot areas where crowding is likely to occur.
fields. Moussaid speculates that adaptable lighting systems, which use darkness to repel people and light to attract them, could be used to direct them in emergencies, for example. Where the cognitive approach falls down is in the most packed environments. At low densities, behaviour is cognitive and strategic, says Moussaid. At high density, its about mass movement and physical pressures. At a certain point crowds can shift from a controlled flow to a stop-and-go pattern, as people are forced to shorten their stride length and occasionally halt to avoid collisions. This kind of movement can develop into something much more frightening, known as crowd turbulence, when people can no longer keep a space between themselves and others. The physical forces that are imparted from one body to another when that happens are both chaotic and powerful: if someone falls over, others will be unable to avoid them. Working out precisely how and where pilgrims perform a ritual in which they throw stones at three pillars. By making the crossing one-way, and changing the shape of the pillars so that people can stone them from a number of locations, they have improved the bridges safety. The Economist But according to Paul Townsend of Crowd Dynamics, a consultancy that has worked on the pilgrimage, the risks remain significant. He thinks that the use of gates that could be opened and shut would help to manage the flow. Yet the haj presents some very specific difficulties beyond its sheer scale. Part of the problem is not having a clear idea of how many pilgrims will turn up, which makes planning difficult. Another issue is the nature of the crowd. Pilgrims on the haj have the attitude that, if I die there it is Gods will, says Mr Townsend. There is a willingness to get more and more dense in the space. Scientists can model many aspects of pedestrian behaviour, but religious fervour is a step too far. The Economist

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Briefs
Obama confirms drone attacks
WASHINGTON President Barack Obama confirmed on January 31 for the first time that US drones have targeted Taliban and al-Qaeda militants on Pakistani soil. Asked about drones in a chat with web users on Google+ and YouTube, Obama said a lot of these strikes have been in the FATA Pakistans semiautonomous Federally Administered Tribal Areas on the Afghan border. The New America Foundation think tank in Washington says drone strikes in Pakistan have killed between 1715 and 2680 people in the past eight years.

UN chief urges Israel to offer goodwill gesture

JERUSALEM UN chief Ban Ki-moon called on Israel last week to halt settlement activity and offer the Palestinians a goodwill gesture as the top diplomat sought to kick-start stalled peace talks. But he appeared to be rebuffed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who said he considered the issue of settlements in the West Bank and east Jerusalem something to be discussed during negotiations, not before. I have told clearly to President (Shimon) Peres this morning and this afternoon to the prime minister that they should refrain from further settlement, Ban told a news conference after talks with Netanyahu on February 1. This can be one of the ways of expressing a goodwill gesture, he said. But Netanyahu appeared to reject taking such a measure. I think the question of settlements should be part of the final peace talks. It cant be a precondition, he said. met Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, the UN chief warned these negotiations should not lose momentum. The Palestinians have accused Israel of failing to present proposals on borders and security called for by the Middle East Quartet the UN, US, EU and Russia and say they cannot continue talks unless Israel freezes settlements and agrees to parameters for discussions. In Jerusalem, after meeting Peres, Ban made clear he wanted to see Israeli action to lure the Palestinians back to the table. Israels cooperation in creating a positive dynamic is vital, he said. The five rounds of talks between Israeli and Palestinian negotiators, sponsored by the peacemaking Quartet, ended without a deal to continue discussions or return to direct negotiations. The Palestinians want a settlement freeze and a framework for talks that would base border discussions on the lines that preceded the 1967 Six-Day War. AFP

Workers all well after kidnap drama: China

BEIJING China said on February 1 that 25 Chinese workers kidnapped by Egyptian Bedouins demanding the release of their Islamist relatives had been freed. The incident came days after 29 Chinese in Sudan were captured by rebels who attacked their camp in volatile South Kordofan state, where they were involved in a road-building project. They have still not been released. I can confirm that all 25 people have been released. Right now they are being taken care of by the Egyptian government and are staying in army accommodation, the assistant to the Chinese ambassador to Egypt told AFP on February 1. They are all well, with no injuries. There was no need to send them to hospital, the Cairo-based assistant, who would not give his name, said over the phone. He refused to give details of how the workers were freed. A diplomat at the Chinese embassy as well as General Abdel Wehab Mabruk, the governor of north Sinai, met the workmen after their release in El-Arish, in the north of the peninsula, an AFP correspondent said. The Chinese technicians and engineers who work for a military-owned cement factory in central Sinai were abducted on January 31 on their way to work, an Egyptian security official said. They were held captive by dozens of Bedouins armed with submachine guns, and a rocket launcher was set up outside the tent where they were kept, a witness said. The protesters who seized them were demanding the release of five Bedouins held in connection with an attack on the tourist resort of Taba in 2004, part of a series of bombings claimed by an Islamist group. Chinas foreign ministry on February 1 warned Chinese companies and personnel working abroad to be on their guard after a similar incident in Sudan. The 29 workers in Sudan were captured on January 28. They have been described as hostages by the Sudanese military but rebels say they were only collateral victims of fighting with government troops. AFP

Pic: AFP UN chief Ban Ki-moon wants the Israelis to stop building settlements. His spokesman Mark Regev said later Netanyahu spoke to US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton by phone, saying Israel is interested in pursuing continued discussions with the Palestinians, and intends to preserve its security interests. Ban was visiting Israel and the Palestinian territories for a series of meetings intended to convince both sides to continue so-called exploratory talks they started last month in Amman. In the West Bank city of Ramallah, where he

French troops leave renegade attack base

PARIS French forces have withdrawn from a forward operating base in Afghanistan where four French servicemen were shot dead by a renegade Afghan soldier on January 20, the general staff said on February 2. The killing of the four soldiers by a rogue Afghan ally shocked France. On January 27, President Nicolas Sarkozy said France was withdrawing its 3600-strong contingent from Afghanistan by the end of 2013, a year before the international deadline of 2014.

Garzon on trial for abuse of power

MADRID Spanish judge Baltasar Garzon on January 31 defended his opening of an investigation into Franco-era crimes as he battled Supreme Court charges of abuse of power. Garzon, who in 1998 sought the extradition of Chilean dictator Ernesto Pinochet from Britain to face charges of human rights abuses, is accused of breaching an amnesty for crimes committed during the Franco-era. The Supreme Court refused to dismiss the case, despite the prosecution and defence agreeing that Garzon had done nothing wrong.

Pythons blamed for decline in wildlife

WASHINGTON Native wildlife has been disappearing at dramatic rates in southern Florida in the past decade and Burmese pythons are to blame, a US study said on January 30. The pythons have been devouring all kinds of wildlife leading to severe declines in once common animals, said the study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The US banned the import of Burmese pythons earlier this month. AFP

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An ocean wonders future on ice

DUBBO, Australia The arid plains fringing Australias desert centre are more suited to camels than blooms of coral but in Dubbo, hundreds of kilometres (miles) from the coast, a piece of the Great Barrier Reef has been put on ice. Suspended in a liquid nitrogen chamber of minus196 degrees Celsius (-320 Fahrenheit), the 70 billion sperm and 22 billion coral embryos are part of an ambitious Australian-first project to preserve and perhaps one day regenerate the world-famous reef. We know the Great Barrier Reef is in deep, deep trouble because of a number of different things global threats including climate change and acidification of waters as well as the warming of waters, said the projects director, Rebecca Spindler. We will never have as much genetic diversity again as we do right now on the reef, this is our last opportunity to save as much as we possibly can. Spindlers team is working with Hawaii-based Mary Hagedorn from the Smithsonian Institute to collect and freeze samples from the World Heritagelisted reef, a sprawling and vivid natural wonder visible from space. In order to maximise the amount of reproductive cells gametes collected the team cut away sections of the reef and took them back to land-based tanks to spawn, an event that only occurs for three days a year.

Above: Acropora tenuis coral releases sperm and egg packages during its brief annual spawning season at the Australian Institute of Marine Science laboratory in Townsville. AIMS scientists harvested the eggs and sperm for the Reef Recovery Project at Dubbos Western Plains Zoo. Top right: Reproductive biologist Nana Satake removes coral sperm and egg samples from liquid nitrogen at the wildlife reproductive laboratory at Dubbos Western Plains Zoo last month. Pix: AFP/AIMS endangered Tasmanian because they actually have next five years are going E x p e r t s f r o m t h e in a few years time. E x p e r t s a t D u b b o s devil, is a hive of hormonal all types of reproduction to be incredibly important Australian Institute of Marine Science, a major W e s t e r n P l a i n s Z o o , experiments using animal t h e y c a n r e p r o d u c e in terms of maintaining the health of the reef and asexually and sexually. partner in the research, then Australias top wildlife droppings and urine. Once more had been capturing as much of that Spermologist Nana Satake tagged the reef sections and reproductive lab, keep the returned them to Orpheus frozen reef ticking over did her doctorate in pig learned from this initial genetic diversity as we Island, literally gluing them with regular liquid nitrogen reproduction and usually round of samples, taken possibly can, she said. Any loss of the reef back to their original sites. top-ups while they explore works with African and from two foundational They plan to build up a optimal conditions for native animals, but she sees types of coral, Satake said worth some A$6 billion in catalogue of coral species as reviving and mating the the Reef Recovery Project as work could be done on more tourism a year would be endangered species which devastating, and not only to an exciting challenge. insurance against increasing coral. T h e G r e a t B a r r i e r the Great Barrier Reef has the one-third of all marine Some 400 kilometres (248 bleaching linked to ocean species that occupy a reef warming and acidification miles) inland from the coast Reef is really a bit of an quite a few of. Spindler said Australias at some point in their lives, a n d t h r e a t s i n c l u d i n g and far closer to desert than enigma theres very little chemical run-off, dredging ocean, Dubbo seems an (research been) done on corals had so far dodged the she added. We also know they and damage from cyclones unlikely location for marine coral reef production from kind of damage from climate (its) coral species, Satake change, disease and human provide, just physically, research. and floods. G i r a f f e s , r h i n o s a n d said, describing it as the impacts seen in the worlds structures (that) keep wave Eventually Spindler hopes other reefs but described the action down and stop areas to grow in-vitro reefs which elephants roam the 300- rainforest of the ocean. Coral is one of the most next few years as critical, from being impacted by tidal can be used to reseed wild hectare (740-acre) zoo and populations something she the lab, which backs onto unique species of the world, with some species already waves, said Spindler. E c o l o g i c a l l y , is confident will be possible a mating enclosure for the really of any organism, feared lost. Weve had a little bit (of economically and socially damage), but really just we cant lose these reefs, we a taste, and I think the just cant. AFP

Trade Mark CauTIon

NOTICE is hereby given that The Mentholatum Company, a Corporation of the State of Delaware of 707 Sterling Drive, Orchard Park, New York 14127, United States of America do solemnly and sincerely declare that we are the owners and sole proprietors of the following trade mark in Myanmar:

The said mark is used in respect of Skin care preparations, skin cleansers, soaps for skin care, nonmedicated toiletries, skin creams, and skin lotions; pharmaceutical preparations for the prevention and treatment of acne, medicated skin care preparations and medicated cosmetics and toiletries, in International Classes 3 and 5. The said trade mark is the subject of Declaration of Ownership recorded with the Registrar of Deeds and Assurances, Yangon, Myanmar, in Book under No. 7124 Dated 1st August, 2011. Any infringement or colourable imitation thereof or other infringement of the rights of the said corporation will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for The Mentholatum Company, by its Attorneys-at-Law REMFRY & SAGAR INDIA. Dated: 6th February, 2012

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killing machine is still at work, he said. But Russia, a longstanding ally of Assad and one of the regimes top suppliers of weapons, declared that the UN body did not have the authority to impose such a resolution. China voiced support for Russias position. Moscows ambassador to the UN, Vitaly Churkin, argued that Syria should be able to decide for itself and said the Council cannot impose the parameters for an internal settlement. It simply does not have the mandate to do so. However, the tone of the debate was measured and Churkin said that the latest version of the resolution gives rise for hope. We hope that the Council will come to consensus on the Syrian issue, as is not only possible but also necessary, he said. Speaking to reporters later, he also hinted at compromise, saying: I think that we can produce a text which would be useful in a way which would help the Arab League to play its key role. France also held out the possibility of a successful UN resolution and said that diplomats would pursue talks. From what Ive heard, I take away that this is not completely impossible and that there is a chance of bringing the viewpoints chief James Clapper said the fall of the Assad regime was in any case inevitable. I do not see how he can sustain his rule of Syria, Clapper told senators. I personally believe its a question of time but thats the issue, it could be a long time. Syria remained defiant, with UN ambassador Bashar Jaafari saying his country would stand firm in confronting its enemies. He accused the Western-Arab alliance of double standards and of fomenting the crisis. The opposition Syrian National Council meanwhile deplored the international communitys lack of swift action to protect civilians by all necessary means, in a statement on Facebook. On January 30 alone, almost 100 people, including 55 civilians, were killed during a regime assault on the flashpoint city of Homs, said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights. The rebel Free Syrian Army said half of the country was now effectively a no-go zone for the security forces. Its Turkey-based commander Colonel Riyadh al-Asaad told AFP that the morale of government troops was extremely low. Thats why they are bombing indiscriminately, killing men, women and children, he said. AFP

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Russia blocks bid to end Syria killings

UNITED NATIONS Western powers and the Arab League on January 31 demanded immediate United Nations action to stop Syrian President Bashar al-Assads killing machine, but Russia refused to give its support. The wrangling at the United Nations came as fighting sharply escalated between Assads security forces and rebels, with activists saying more than 5400 people have died in the 10-month-old uprising. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, backed by her French and British counterparts as well as Qatars prime minister, led the charge for a tough UN resolution that would call on Assad to end the bloodshed and hand over power. We all know that change is coming to Syria. Despite its ruthless tactics, the Assad regimes reign of terror will end, Clinton told the UN Security Council. The question for us is: how many more innocent civilians will die before this country is able to move forward? Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim Al-Thani, speaking on behalf of the Arab League, said Assads regime had failed to make any sincere effort to end the crisis and believed the only solution was to kill its own people. Bloodshed continued and the

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton reacts to a speech by the Syrian ambassador to the UN, Bashar Jaafari, at the UN Security Council meeting in New York on January 31. Jaafari accused a Western-Arab alliance striving to end the bloodshed in Syria of fomenting the crisis. Pic: AFP together, Foreign Minister Alain Juppe said. The key sticking point appeared to be the Arab League call for Assads speedy departure. The draft resolution, which was introduced by Arab League member Morocco, calls for the formation of a unity government leading to transparent and free elections. It stresses that there will be no foreign military intervention in Syria as there was in Libya, helping to topple Moamer Kadhafi. In Washington, US intelligence

Iraq says Washington needs permission to use surveillance drones

BAGHDAD Washington make sure that our embassy must obtain Baghdads compound is protected. During a news briefing permission to use drones to watch over US facilities in the same day, spokeswoman Iraq, the Iraqi government V i c t o r i a N u l a n d w e n t spokesman said on January into greater detail on the State Departments use of 31. But US President Barack drones. Asked about the use Obama spoke about surveillance drones in Iraq of surveillance drones in during an online event the Iraq at a news briefing previous day, indicating later the same day, State that they may already be Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said it had in use. The embassy needs to always used a wide variety of get the approvals from the security tools and techniques Iraqi government for any and procedures to ensure the sort of surveillance which safety of its personnel and is needed, Ali al-Dabbagh facilities. We do have an unmanned told AFP in a telephone interview, when asked about aerial vehicle program used Americas use of surveillance by the State Department. These are tiny drones. little things. We could understand how As far as I T h e y a r e n o t armed. They are important such surveillance (is) know, there is not capable of being armed. for the embassy What they and the security no request are designed to of the people do is help give working in the embassy, but at the same us pictures over our facilities time we would insist that the to help in their protection, permission needs (to come) Nuland said, adding that from the Iraqi government, they can be used over the facilities or to track personnel he said. Dabbagh said that, to his who are moving. She did not mention the knowledge, such permission has not yet been requested countries in which they are used. by the United States. Asked if the State As far as I know, there is no request till now, but D e p a r t m e n t o b t a i n e d hopefully... they will apply permission for their use, and the Iraqi government Nuland said: We, the State Department, always would look on this issue. Obama referred to drones work closely with host in Iraq during an event governments on the physical hosted by Google+ and protection of our facilities YouTube, saying that: The and our personnel, and truth of the matter is were this was part and parcel of not engaging in a bunch of that, without specifying drone attacks inside of Iraq. whether or not permission Theres some surveillance to was obtained. AFP

Sanctions may persuade Iran: US

WASHINGTON Sanctions and diplomacy may yet persuade Iran to give up its nuclear program, as its leaders have shown a rational cost-benefit approach in their calculations, senior US officials said on February 1. The top intelligence officials suggested that military conflict with Iran was not inevitable, despite soaring tensions with Tehran and a war of nerves over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key oil trade choke point. We judge Irans nuclear decision-making is guided by a cost-benefit approach, which offers the international community opportunities to influence Tehran, director of National Intelligence James Clapper told the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. Iranian leaders undoubtedly consider Irans security, prestige, and influence, as well as the international political and security environment, when making decisions about its nuclear program, he said. He said economic sanctions were taking a toll and described a worsening rift between Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The overriding goal of Irans leaders remained regime survival, and it was too early to say how economic strains triggered by tougher sanctions would affect their decisions, CIA director David Petraeus told the hearing. With a run on the Iranian currency, inflationary pressures and unemployment, the sanctions were biting more now than ever before, Petraeus said. The comments by senior intelligence officials echoed President Barack Obamas assessment in his State of the Union address the previous week, when he said a peaceful resolution remains possible with Iran. Asked by intelligence committee chair Senator Dianne Feinstein about the likelihood of preemptive Israeli military action, Clapper replied that he would prefer to answer in a closed-door session but said sanctions might force Tehran to change course. The United States and the European Union have ramped up sanctions on Iran following a damning UN International Atomic Energy Agency report in November. The measures focus on Irans vital oil industry and central bank in a bid to force Tehran to curtail its uranium enrichment program, which the West suspects is part of a secret drive to build an atomic bomb. Iran insists its nuclear project is peaceful and has threatened retaliation over the fresh sanctions, including possibly disrupting shipping through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. AFP

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Two reasons for Romney to smile

Republicans often have a WASHINGTON Mitt Analysis by Karen Tumulty disadvantage in the fall. In Romneys sweeping victory Florida, they were the key to in the Florida Republican Still, there is likely to Romneys victory. primary on January 31 did he has the potential to Among Florida Republican two things for him that he coalesce a party that has be tension ahead. In the badly needed: It set the been deeply split between exit polls, more than seven w o m e n , R o m n e y b e a t front-runner back on a glide its establishment wing, in 10 Gingrich supporters Gingrich by more than 20 path to the 2012 presidential which backs him, and the said they see Romney as percentage points, showed nomination and it raised his insurgent forces of the Tea insufficiently conservative, exit polls. That was a sharp standing with the GOPs Party movement, which and more than half would be swing from South Carolina, have been suspicious of his dissatisfied with him as the where Gingrich ran nine conservative base. points ahead of Romney partys nominee. Florida, the fourth state moderate record. Thats a feeling that goes among female primary The result in Florida to vote this primary season, was not only the biggest was very different from the both ways: About six in 10 voters. One adviser, who spoke on prize yet, but also the purest defeat Romney suffered in Romney supporters who test of where the party South Carolina only 10 days were polled said they would the condition of anonymity so be unhappy with Gingrich he could discuss campaign before. stands nationally. I n F l o r i d a , R o m n e y at the top of the Republican strategy frankly, said the Unlike earlier primaries Romney campaigns attacks in New Hampshire and w a s c o m p e t i t i v e w i t h ticket. But that breach may on Gingrich as unreliable and South Carolina, Floridas former House Speaker contest was open only to N e w t G i n g r i c h a m o n g close once a nominee is erratic were aimed squarely registered Republicans; evangelical Christians. He chosen and Republicans at winning Republican about seven in 10 voters also prevented Gingrich turn their attention to women. This election season identified themselves as from running up the large the general election. As in has been one of somewhat or very serial infatuation conservative, showed ns exit polls. Florida...will be a crucial state in the fall. f o rr oR e p u b lti c a h e th ughou t Though Romneys United States. At victory could be a This is an important win for Romney. various points since turning point, senior August, three other Republicans say the race for the nomination is margins he had in South earlier contests, a plurality candidates first Texas Carolina among Tea Party of Republicans in Florida Governor Rick Perry, then far from over. Florida is a big and supporters and the most said the top quality they are former pizza-chain executive seeking in a candidate is Herman Cain and then diverse state that will be conservative voters. The win also gives Romney the ability to beat President Gingrich have been ahead a crucial state in the fall. of Romney in the national This is an important win a shot of momentum going Barack Obama. Florida, a swing state where polls. for Romney, said Ralph into Februarys contests, So unsettled was the race Reed, head of the Faith most of which will be held the Republican Party will and Freedom Coalition, on terrain where he has hold its national convention that, for the first time, three a conservative Christian an advantage. Internally, in August, also afforded different candidates former political organisation. But R o m n e y s c a m p a i g n the Romney campaign an senator Rick Santorum of given all the ups and downs is calculating that the opportunity to road-test Pennsylvania, then Romney, weve had, I dont think you primaries and caucuses some of its messaging for then Gingrich won the first three contests. can call this for Romney this month could boost his the general election. In the Florida exit poll, For instance, Romneys delegate total to 250 or just yet. The size and breadth more, nearly a quarter of strategists closely watched nearly six in 10 said they of Romneys win provide what he needs to secure the his totals among women, were satisfied with the field a c o n s t i t u e n c y w h e r e of candidates. But that feeling the first real evidence that nomination.

Pic: AFP A delighted Mitt Romney greets supporters at his Florida primary night party in Tampa, Florida, on January 31. is not shared by Republicans nationally; indeed, as they have watched a campaign that has become increasingly bitter and bruising, there is evidence that they are growing more disenchanted with the choices. Yet for all their dissatisfaction with the options on the ballot, Republicans are turning up at the polls in record numbers. What we know for sure about Republican primary voters nationally is their level of interest matches the historic high-water mark of the 2008 election, said GOP pollster Bill McInturff. And this high interest and unprecedented campaign spending has led to historic levels of turnout in every caucus and primary so far in January. The Washington Post

People power will win over money, says Gingrich

ORLANDO, Florida Newt Gingrich put a positive spin on his crushing defeat in the Florida Republican primary last week, vowing to use people power to beat wealthy rival Mitt Romney for the partys presidential nod. Former Massachusetts governor Romney won Florida with some 46 percent of the vote showed early returns, tallying a double-digit lead over Gingrich. Trailing far behind were rivals Rick Santorum and Ron Paul. It is now clear, Gingrich told a crowd of supporters here, that this will be a two-person race between the conservative leader Newt Gingrich and the Massachusetts moderate. Romney and his supporters heavily outspent Gingrich in Florida and were able to portray the former speaker of the House in ads as an unreliable Washington insider. Gingrich, who lacks Romneys campaign infrastructure and has a smaller campaign war chest, was undeterred. Were going to have people power defeat money power in the next six months, Gingrich told the crowd. We are going to contest every place and we are going to win, and we will be in Tampa as the nominee in August, Gingrich vowed, referring to the Republican convention where the nominee will be chosen. Gingrich then turned on his putative rival, Barack Obama, warning that if the president is re-elected it will be a disaster for the country. If he can have a record this bad ... and still get reelected, you cant imagine how radical hell be in his second term, Gingrich said, insisting that the 2012 vote was the most important election of your lifetime. Gingrich then took a swipe at Obama for making news for singing a few lines of a pop song at a New York fund raising event. Im not going to compete with Obama in singing because Im not running for entertainer in chief, Im running for president! said Gingrich. The comment could also be seen as backhanded slap at Romney, who recently led supporters in singing the patriotic song America The Beautiful at a Florida campaign stop. In his speech Gingrich also urged fellow conservative Santorum, who won about 13pc of the Florida vote, to drop out of the race. AFP

Trade Mark CauTIon

NOTICE is hereby given that Seiko SeiSakuSho Co., Ltd of 14-14, 2-Chome, Misaki, Suminoe-Ku, Osaka, Japan is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

Trade Mark CauTIon

NOTICE is hereby given that PIaS CorP. a joint stock company duly organized under the laws of Japan, Manufacturers and Merchants of No.19-3, Toyosaki 3-chome, Kita-ku, Osaka, Japan is the Owner and Sole Proprietor of the following trademark: -

Police in Chile recover ice stolen from glacier

SANTIAGO Police in Chile were last week investigating a gang that allegedly stole blocks of ice from the Jorge Montt Glacier in the far south of the country. Agents with Chiles National Forest Service filed a legal complaint claiming that ice was being stolen from the glacier, in the Chilean Patagonia region some 1700 kilometers (1056 miles) south of Santiago. Police in the southern city of Cochrane then swooped in on a truck loaded with five tons of ice and arrested the driver, the daily El Mercurio reported on its online edition. The driver was arrested on charges of theft, but could also face charges of crimes against cultural heritage, said Cochrane prosecutor Jose Moris. Police, who put the value of the stolen ice at US$6200, are on the lookout for the drivers accomplices. The 454-square-kilometre (175sq m) Jorge Montt glacier is melting at a rate of a kilometer (0.6 miles) a year, making it one of the worlds most visible milestones of global warming, researchers said in December. The withering glacier, shared by Chile and Argentina, is part of the 13,000-square-kilometer (5020sq m) Southern Ice Field, the third largest frozen landmass after Antarctica and Greenland. AFP

SNOWMAN
(reg: no. IV/742/1994)

SUNGRACE
( reg: no. IV/5117/2008 )

in respect of:- Stationery Class: 16 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 Seiko SeiSakuSho Co., Ltd P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 6th February, 2012

in respect of : Cosmetics, essential oils, soaps, dentifrices, hair lotions Intl Class: 3

perfumery,

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 PIaS CorP. P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 6th February, 2012

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departments. But a senior academic has expressed concern about the donation, at a time when links between universities and wealthy donors are under scrutiny following criticism of the London School of Economics for accepting Libyan funds. Tarak Barkawi, a senior lecturer in war studies at Cambridges Department of Politics and International Studies, told the Daily Telegraph that the universitys behaviour was reckless and simply not good enough. Who is this Chong Hua Foundation that is giving us all this money? Where is the website? Who sits on its board? Does it have links to the Chinese government? These are all basic questions that need to be answered, he said. The lack of transparency, clarity and debate regarding the links between the Chong Hua Foundation and the regime is of very serious concern and raises basic questions about the relationship between donors and universities. Another unnamed faculty member also criticised the donation. However, a university source said the row had been whipped up by two embittered academics. Cambridge Universitys website says the foundation is focused on advancing education for the benefit of the Peoples Republic of China, and a spokesman said a thorough investigation had found no connection to the government. Its a philanthropic gift for advancing education about China. Theyre wealthy Chinese individuals and its perfectly common that benefactors ask to remain anonymous, spokesman Tim Holt told AFP. We retain full integrity and independence. AFP

MyanMar tiMes

Cambridge academics question donation from China

LONDON A row has broken out at Cambridge University over a 3.7 million (4.4 million euro, $5.8 million) donation by a Chinese foundation amid concern that it is linked to the Chinese government. The new professorship of Chinese development will be established on March 1, funded by the Chong Hua Educational Foundation, to link research and teaching on the subject across various university

UK to send warship to disputed islands

LONDON Britain said last be resolved through bilateral Falkland Islands, and of week it was sending a new negotiations, a foreign course aircraft there as well. Royal Naval ships frequently state-of-the-art warship to ministry statement said. Prime Minister David visit the area. the Falklands, but insisted Hague added: We will the deployment was purely Cameron angered Argentina r o u t i n e d e s p i t e r i s i n g the previous week by accusing always be in a position to tensions over the islands it of colonialism over the defend the Falkland Islands British overseas territory if necessary, not that we are sovereignty. Defence ministry officials which Buenos Aires claims aware of any military threat to the Falkland Islands at the said on January 31 the belongs to Argentina. T h a t l e d A r g e n t i n e moment. decision to send HMS Argentinas then-ruling Dauntless to the South President Cristina Kirchner junta launched an Atlantic Ocean was long invasion on April 2, planned. The Type 45 destroyer These things, they are 1982. Britain restored its control after a 74-day war is due to head out on which cost the lives of 649 her maiden voyage in routine deployments. Argentine and 255 British the coming months to troops. replace the smaller Type Tensions over the 30th to accuse Cameron of 23 frigate HMS Montrose. The Falklands dispute is portraying her country as anniversary have been raised by the announcement especially sensitive as the violent in the dispute. F o r e i g n S e c r e t a r y that Prince William, Queen 30th anniversary approaches of the war between Britain William Hague played Elizabeth IIs grandson and and Argentina over the down the deployment of the second in line to throne, HMS Dauntless, telling Sky will soon spend six weeks barren islands. Buenos Aires denounced News television: Theres on a routine deployment to what it called a militarisation nothing unusual about this the Falklands as an air force deployment, it doesnt reflect search and rescue helicopter of the dispute. The Argentine Republic any change in the situation of pilot. Argentina expressed rejects the British effort to any kind. These things, they are dismay over the deployment militarise a conflict which the United Nations has said routine deployments. We of William in a conquerors on multiple occasions should do keep a garrison on the uniform. AFP Icy conditions made driving hazardous in Givors, in central eastern France, on January 31. Europe shivered in some of the coldest weather in decades last week as a cold front from Siberia spread throughout the continent. The frigid conditions caused at least 80 deaths, including 30 in Ukraine, where the mercury plunged to minus 28 degrees Celsius (minus 18F). Many of the victims were homeless people who froze to death. Pic: AFP

Women do it better, says parking study

LONDON Women can take heart from a study released in Britain last week which revealed that they are better drivers than men when it comes to parking. A review of CCTV footage from 700 British car parks and interviews with 2000 drivers found that when a range of factors are considered, including the method used and the time taken, women come out on top. I was quite surprised by the results, because in my experience men have always been the best learners and usually performed better in lessons, driving instructor Neil Beeson, who designed the study for NCP carparks, said on January 30. Out of a maximum score of 20, women had an average result of 13.4, while the average for men was 12.3 Men fared better than women in some areas, including speed they took an average of 16 seconds to park, compared to 21 seconds for women and they were happier with the result, spending less time repositioning the car. But women were quicker at finding a park, a result attributed to the fact that men often missed spaces by driving through car parks too fast. And 53 percent of women were found to have parked in the centre of the space, compared to only 25pc of men. AFP

Putin too busy to host Chinese official: paper

MOSCOW Vladimir Putin has refused to host a top Chinese official tipped to become Chinas next prime minister due to his busy agenda ahead of polls, a newspaper said on February 1. Kommersant, citing sources in the RussianChinese inter-governmental commission, the Russian foreign ministry and the government, said that vice Premier Li Keqiang tagged to become Chinas next prime minister, had wanted this month to visit Russia to meet Prime Minister Putin and outgoing President Dmitry Medvedev. The newspaper said that Li had cancelled the visit because the Russian government indicated Putin would not be available to host him due to his busy agenda ahead of March presidential elections in which the Russian prime minister plans to win back his former Kremlin job. Theres so much fuss over these elections, theres no time for him, the newspaper quoted a government source as saying. Putin is facing the worst legitimacy crisis of his 12-year rule, with tens of thousands of people taking to the streets in December. The Kremlin also did not give a definitive answer as to whether Medvedev would be available to meet Li, who has never been to Russia, the report said. A n e w g e n e r a t i o n of leaders must take over the reins of power in China within a year. President Hu Jintao will end his second five-year term as party head this year, while Li is expected to take over from Premier Wen Jiabao who will resign in 2013. The reported cancellation of the visit comes after Russia declined Hus proposal to conduct a joint forum of the two countries ruling parties during Putins visit to China last October ahead of parliamentary elections in Russia, Kommersant said. Russian foreign ministry officials are hoping Li could visit Russia later in the year, the newspaper added. AFP

Trade Mark CauTIon

HLT International IP LLC, a company incorporated in the State of Delaware, U.S.A., of 9336 Civic Center Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210, U.S.A., is the Owner of the following Trade Marks:-

in respect of Paper, paper articles, cardboard, cardboard articles; wrapping and packaging material; printed materials, printed publications, books; stationery; posters, calendars, playing cards.

reg. no. 6831/2004 reg. no. 518/2008 in respect of Hotel Management services; management advisory services related to franchising. Rental of temporary accommodation; reservations (temporary accommodation); hotel management; hotel, motel, bar, cafe, restaurant, banqueting and catering services; hotel services providing facilities for holding functions, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, seminars and meetings. reg. no. 4430/2000 reg. no. 519/2008 in respect of Casino, gambling, gaming and betting services; live entertainment and musical entertainment services; nightclub services; health and leisure club services; provision of sport, leisure and recreational facilities; arranging and conducting of functions, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, seminars and meetings; theatre, opera and concert ticket reservations. reg. no. 859/1988 reg. no. 520/2008

HILTON

reg. no. 2409/1998 reg. no. 521/2008 in respect of Class 42: Accommodation, hotel, motel, bar, cafe. restaurant, banqueting and catering services; hotel management; hotel reservation; room service; housekeeping service; laundry, dry cleaning, seamstress and valet service; provision of function, conference, convention, exhibition, seminar and meeting facilities; sauna, spa, whirlpool and turkish bath services; provision of solarium and sun deck facilities; massage services; beauty salon and hairdressing services; barber shops. The said proprietors and owners claim the right to use the said trade marks in all colours, sizes and styles of type. 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 HLT International IP LLC P.O. Box 60, Yangon Dated: 6th February, 2012

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German architect chronicles Nepals architectural gems

KATHMANDU It is said that the medieval era never really ended in Nepal, its historic towns and architectural jewels blessed by an unbroken continuity of life and ritual that links the present with the past. The lasting image for tourists flying out of Kathmandu is of the multiroofed pagodas of palaces and temples and the 16th century courtyards, which were once the basic unit of city planning. But much of the capitals ancient architecture will soon be no more than a memory, said one of the worlds leading authorities, Niels Gotschow, as haphazard urbanisation and a desire for modernity change Kathmandu. To put things into a book is an act of preservation because one day this will be the only way to remember, says Gutschow, who has dedicated the last four decades to chronicling and preserving Nepals architectural treasures. Gutschow, 70, has pulled up countless floors and chipped endlessly at concrete to reveal the longlost craft of the Newars the Kathmandu Valleys indigenous inhabitants renowned for their striking brickwork and wood carving. The Hindu and Buddhist monuments of the three cities of the valley on which the German national has worked Bhaktapur, Kathmandu and Patan were collectively designated as the first Asian UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. But every year courtyards with richly-carved doors are demolished, balconies and lintels removed, and cornices and roof struts pulled down to make way for new homes in the fastexpanding capital. Significant monuments, monasteries, temples and historic houses across the valley are being lost. Until ten years ago a person did not even need a demolition permit, says Gutschow. An amendment of the law now requires a demolition permit but that doesnt mean much. Theres no enforcement because no municipality can ask the (authorities) to send a policeman to enforce the law. Its a lawless country. Born in Hamburg, the son of an architect, Gutschow studied architecture at the University of Darmstadt and spent time as an apprentice carpenter in Japan in the 1960s. He came to Nepal in 1971 to volunteer on the restoration of the Pujari Math Hindu monastery in Bhaktapur, a Newar city about 13 kilometres (eight miles) east of Kathmandu where he made a home with his wife, Wau. Gutschows latest project is on the restoration of the Patan Royal Palace and the Bhandarkhal Archaeological Garden, a trove of buried archaeological treasures dating to the 12th century. But local communities, preoccupied with moving towards a decent standard of 21st century living rather than preserving medieval character, are not always appreciative of his work. He recalls the at times violent resistance to his conservation efforts, particularly over the Itum Bahal, one of the largest Buddhist courtyards in Kathmandu, where his workers were attacked with hammers. He says his work is about documenting a period which is largely beyond salvation. But while the last Newari house may be gone in a generation, he is trying to preserve the key monuments of Kathmandu. Architecture of Newaris, Gutschows three-volume labour of love 40 years in the making and the latest in a canon of work stretching to more than a dozen books, was published at the end of last year. It is the ultimate chronicle of Newari building techniques, says Gutschow, but it may soon also be the only record of an age consigned to history by the thrust for modernity. AFP

German architect Niels Gutschow outside his home at Bhaktapur on the outskirts of Kathmandu. Pic: AFP

Trade Mark CauTIon

NOTICE is hereby given that MeGMILk SnoW Brand Co., Ltd a joint-stock company duly organized under the laws of Japan, Manufactures and merchants of 1-1, Naebo-cho, 6-chome, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Japan is the Owner and sole proprietor of the following trademarks:-

(reg: no. IV/11050/2011)

(reg: no. IV/11051/2011) (reg: no. IV/11052/2011) The above three trademarks are in respect of:Class - 5: Pharmaceutical and veterinary preparations; sanitary preparations for medical purposes; dietetic substances adapted for medical use, food for babies; plasters, materials for dressings; material for stopping teeth, dental wax; disinfectants; preparations for destroying vermin; fungicides, herbicides food for babies including powdered milk for babies, infants and young children, follow-up milk for infants and young children; growing-up milk for young children and children; powdered milk for medical treatment of congenital abnormal syndrome; lacteal flour for babies, powdered milk for pregnant and lactancy period women; powdered milk for added vitamins and minerals for adults and elder men; dietetic substances adapted for medical use, dietetic beverages adapted for medical purposes, dietetic food adapted for medical purposes, dietetic food for preparations adapted for medical purposes, dietary supplements, food-supplements not for medical purposes, mineral food supplements, medicated confectionery; medicated drinks, medical drinks; medical teas, herb teas for medical purposes, mineral water for medical purposes; therapeutic diets intended to prevent gastro-esophageal reflex adapted for pharmaceutical purposes; dietetic bread adapted for medical use; royal jelly for medical purposes; medical herb; vitamin preparations, enteral nutrition; albuminous preparations for medical purposes; albuminous milk; milk ferments for pharmaceutical purposes; milk sugar (lactose); enzymes preparations for medicinal purposes; enzymes for medicinal purposes; amino acids for medicinal purposes; protein for medical and veterinary use, peptide for medical and veterinary use, whey peptide for medical and veterinary use; ceramide for medical and veterinary use, milk ceramide for medical and veterinary use, sphingomyelin for medical and veterinary use; iron lactoferine for medical and veterinary use, microbe for medical and veterinary use, microorganism for medical and veterinary use, non-medicated nutrients being nutritional supplements Class 29: Powdered milk for children; powdered milk for pregnant and nursing women; powdered milk for added

MeGMILk SnoW Brand

vitamins and minerals for adults and elder men; whole milk powder; skimmed milk; condensed milk; milk beverages; milk-based beverages; fermented milk; yoghurt; butter, cheese, cheese spread, cream, milk ceramide (milk products), ceramide (milk products), sphingomyelin (mild products), iron lactoferine (milk products), milk and milk products; artificial cheese (or imitation cheese); margarine and fat spreads; fat-containing mixtures for bread; fatty substances for the manufacture of edible fats; non-diary Cream (Cream made from edible oils and/or fats); lard for food; chocolate nut butter, peanut butter, edible oils and fats; fermented soybeans; fermented bean curd; whey; protein for human consumption; nutritional consumption in the form of powder, granule, grain, tablet, liquid, gel, jelly and capsule made from proein; meat, fish, poultry and games; meat extracts; meat products; seafood products; preserved, dried and cooked fruits and vegetables; jellies; jams; compotes; eggs; soups Class 30: Coffee, tea, cocoa, sugar, rice, tapioca, sago, artificial coffee; flour and preparations made from cereals, bread, pastry and confectionery, ices; honey, treacle; yeast, baking-powder; salt, mustard; vinegar, sauces (condiments); spices; ice. coffee beans; seasonings; spices; aromatic preparations for food (not from essential oils); rice; husked barley; husked oats; flour for food; gluten for food; cereal preparations; Chinese stuffed dumplings; pizza crust; sandwich; Chinese steamed dumplings; Sushi; steamed buns stuffed with minced meats; humburgers; pizzas; box lunch (being prepared meals); hot dogs; meat pie; ravioli; confectionery and bread and buns; instant confectionery mixes; ice cream mixes; sherbet mixes; yeast powder; Binding agents for ice cream; meat tenderizers for household purpose; preparations for stiffening whipped cream; sake lees; chocolate-based beverages; cocoabased beverages; coffee-based beverages; ice cream; tea-based beverages; edible ices; sherbets; frozen yogurt (confectionery ices); fruit jellies (confectionery or desserts); puddings (desserts); seasoned powder for sprinkling on rice: pizza sauce; nutritional and dietary supplement (other than for medical purposes) Class 32: Beer; Beer wort; Extracts of hops for making beer; Mineral water [beverages], table waters, Waters [beverages], aerated water, soda water, preparations for making aerated water; ginger ale, powders for effervescing beverages, pastilles for effervescing beverages, fruit drinks and fruits juices, lemonades, non-alcoholic fruit nectars, tomato juice [beverage], vegetable juices [beverages], sherbets [beverages], syrups for beverages, essences for making beverages, preparations for making beverages, whey beverages, isotonic beverages, non-alcoholic beverages, mixed fruit and vegetable juices. Any fraudulent imitation or unauthorized use of the said trademarks or other infringements whatsoever will be dealt with according to law. U Kyi Win Associates for MeGMILk SnoW Brand Co., Ltd. P.O. Box No. 26, Yangon. Phone: 372416 Dated: 6th February, 2012

Trade Mark CauTIon

HLT Conrad IP LLC, a Company incorporated in the State of Delaware, U.S.A., of 9336 Civic Center Drive, Beverly Hills, California 90210, United States, is the Owner of the following Trade Mark:-

reg. no. 5880/2001 reg. no. 522/2008 in respect of Accommodation, hotel, motel, bar, cafe, restaurant, banqueting and catering services; hotel management; reservation services for hotel accommodation; provision of facilities for functions, conferences, conventions, exhibitions, seminars and meetings. The said proprietors and owners claim the right to use the said trade mark in all colours, sizes and styles of type. Fraudulent imitation or unauthorised use of the said Trade Mark will be dealt with according to law. Win Mu Tin, M.A., H.G.P., D.B.L for HLT Conrad IP LLC P. O. Box 60, Yangon. Dated: 6th February, 2012

CONRAD

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Briefs
US open to talks with North Korea
SEOUL The United States is open to diplomacy with North Koreas new leaders but they must improve frosty ties with South Korea and show seriousness about nuclear disarmament, a senior US diplomat said on February 1. Assistant Secretary of State Kurt Campbell said the North must take necessary steps before any revival of long-stalled sixparty nuclear disarmament talks. We are open to diplomacy with North Korea but there are a very clear set of steps necessary, he said.

Gilani vows to respect courts verdict

ISLAMABAD Embattled Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani said on February 3 he will respect the outcome of a move by the Supreme Court to indict him on contempt charges. The court had the previous day ordered Gilani to appear before it on February 13, to be indicted with contempt for failing to pursue corruption cases against president Asif Ali Zardari. The shock announcement threatened to plunge his weak government deeper into crisis and force early elections within months. I will go there and I will present my stance before the court, Gilani told reporters in the eastern city of Lahore. He said he will respect the court order and reiterated his opposition to conflict between state institutions. Supreme Court judge Nasir-ul-Mulk told the court on February 2 there were grounds to proceed against Gilani over the governments refusal to follow a court order and ask Swiss authorities to re-open graft cases against Zardari. Switzerland shelved the cases in 2008, when Zardari took office. The government argued that Zardari has immunity from prosecution while head of state and accused judges of plotting with the military to wage a witch-hunt against him. The prime minister told parliament late on February 3 he will appear in the court. AFP

Cambodian tribunal has no money to pay staff

PHNOM PENH Cambodias UN-backed Khmer Rouge tribunal has run out of money to pay the wages of hundreds of workers as contributions from donor countries have dried up, a court spokesman said on January 31. None of the more than 300 Cambodians working at the tribunal, from judges to drivers, will be paid this month and may not receive their salaries in February and March either, said Neth Pheaktra. We have no money, he told AFP, adding that some judges and prosecutors had not been paid since October. The funding shortfall does not affect the more than 130 international employees at the war crimes court, whose wages are paid by the United Nations. It affects morale at the court, said Neth Pheaktra. The people depend on their salaries to support their families and its not good to go without pay. Cambodian salaries are paid through voluntary contributions from donor nations such as Japan, France and Australia. The court, set up in 2006 to find justice for the deaths of up to two million people during the Khmer Rouges 1975-1979 rule, is perpetually cash-strapped but this is thought to be is longest period of non-payment. Court officials will travel to New York this month to meet donor countries to discuss the courts budget for 2012-2013, said Neth Pheaktra. AFP

India selects French firm for $12b fighter jet deal

NEW DELHI India has selected the French firm Dassault over the Eurofighter consortium as the preferred bidder for 126 fighter jets in a major contract estimated to be worth US$12 billion. Dassault won the right to enter exclusive negotiations with India after lodging a lower bid than its European rival in the worlds biggest single defence deal currently in process, an Indian government source told AFP on January 31. Dassault, whose Rafale fighter was pitted against the Eurofighter Typhoon, said it was honoured and grateful to be selected and stressed its commitment to meeting the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force. The French government welcomed the news but added that the final contract had yet to be signed. Eurofighter said it respected Indias decision of Britains BAE Systems, Italys Finmeccanica and the European Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS). James Hardy, Asia-Pacific editor of Janes Defence Weekly, said the decision was a big win for the Rafale but warned that the French side faced a period of tough negotiation. Rafale has been selected as the preferred bidder but any student of Indian procurement knows that this means nothing until the contract is physically signed, Hardy said. The tendered contract is for the outright purchase of 18 combat aircraft by 2012 with another 108 to be built in India with options to acquire more. The procurement of the fighter jets is a key part of Indias military upgrade program, aimed at securing its borders against rivals Pakistan and China. AFP

Khmer Rouge jailer to die in prison

PHNOM PENH A Khmer Rouge jailer who oversaw the deaths of some 15,000 people was sentenced to life in prison on appeal on February 3, ending a landmark first case at Cambodias UN-backed war crimes court. Survivors of the regime hailed the decision to increase the original jail term of 30 years for Kaing Guek Eav, better known as Duch, for war crimes and crimes against humanity. Judges said the initial punishment given to the former prison chief in 2010 did not reflect the gravity of the crimes committed in the late 1970s at the factory of death that was the S-21 detention centre in Phnom Penh.

but was disappointed. Although this is not yet a contract signature and contract negotiations are still ahead, we are disappointed, a statement said. The huge contract to supply warplanes to fastdeveloping India has been fiercely fought over for four years.

India in April pulled a surprise by cutting out US bidders Boeing and Lockheed Martin much to Washingtons disappointment as well as dropping Swedens Saab AB and the Russian makers of the MiG-35 from the race. That left Dassault and Eurofighter a consortium

Mutinous troops surrender weapons

PORT MORESBY Soldiers linked to a mutiny in Papua New Guinea handed over weapons on January 30 in exchange for an amnesty, reports said. Deputy Prime Minister Belden Namah told soldiers in the capital Port Moresby that they would escape charges for the previous weeks attempted uprising in exchange for their guns, but warned he would not show leniency again. The mutiny was led by troops demanding the reinstatement of former prime minister, Michael Somare.

Man dies unnoticed at video game venue

TAIPEI A Taiwanese man died while playing video games at an internet cafe as dozens of other patrons carried on for hours afterwards apparently unaware that they were sitting near a corpse, police said on February 3. The 23-year-old checked in at the cafe in New Taipei city on the night of January 31 and was found dead but still sitting rigidly on a chair with his hands stretched out the following night, police said. AFP

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Mainlanders hit back at HK locusts advertisement

SHANGHAI Chinese netizens voiced anger on February 2 over a Hong Kong advert portraying mainlanders as locusts, sparking a call for calm in a state newspaper after an increasingly bitter exchange of words. The advert was published in Hong Kongs widely-read Apple Daily the previous day by an anonymous group in retaliation for comments made by Chinese professor Kong Qingdong, who called Hong Kong residents dogs and bastards. How dare Hong Kong people have the courage to say we are locusts. No one should go to Hong Kong, said Reneeshou on Sinas popular microblog service. This shows a limited sense of appreciation (towards China) and a lack of tolerance of an international city, another commented. The full-page advert demanded action to stop mainland Chinese infiltration of the territory, showing a huge locust overlooking Hong Kongs skyline with the words Hong Kongers have had enough! and This city is dying, you know? Mainlanders are a key source of revenue for Hong Kong, but there is growing discontent over the thousands of mainland women who come to give birth in the territory every year, taking up limited beds and pushing up costs. Mainlanders, for their part, complain that residents of Hong Kong which is part of China but enjoys more economic and political freedom look down on them. Kong made the comments in an online, broadcast interview the previous week after a video of Hong Kongers scolding a mainland woman for disregarding rules and eating on a train went viral on the internet. Originally, I didnt agree with Kong Qingdong, but after seeing the Apple Daily ad, I just want to say that these people really are mad dogs, one outraged web user wrote. I do not like the Apple newspaper ad, but I think people who have been to Hong Kong should reflect on what they did. The quality of behaviour should be improved, another comment read. The recent, barbed exchanges have prompted the state-run Global Times newspaper to call for calm. In an editorial on February 2, the newspaper said China and Hong Kong should grow closer on the basis of a shared identity. The mixed mutual feelings are making things more complicated. More efforts are needed from both the mainland and Hong Kong, it said. AFP

Chinese officials under fire over river pollution scare

SHANGHAI Chinese media on February 1 blasted local officials for poor supervision after industrial waste in a southern river threatened the drinking water for millions of people. Up to a 300-kilometre (190mile) stretch of the Longjiang River in the Guangxi region could be contaminated by toxic cadmium and other industrial waste dumped by polluting factories. Authorities claimed late on January 31 they had brought the pollution under control but the China Daily newspaper said that better supervision of industry was needed and the work of local officials left much to be desired. Local authorities need to investigate thoroughly the root cause of the incident. This incident should be a wake-up call to the rest of the country, it said in an editorial. Eight company executives deemed responsible for the contamination have been detained. The Guangxi government said efforts to dilute the pollution by adding chemical neutralisers and allowing a greater volume of water had achieved clear results, said a statement. The government would maintain flow of tap water to Liuzhou city, the statement said, following earlier worries authorities would have to stop supply to some of the citys 3.7 million residents. Pollution would not affect areas beyond Liuzhou, it added. After two weeks of cleanup, the pollution is under control, Feng Zhennian, a local environmental official, was quoted as saying by the state-run Xinhua news agency. The Liuzhou government said pollution in some areas was still 2.6 times the national standard for cadmium at midday on February 1. Many waterways in China have become heavily contaminated with toxic waste from factories and farms, pollution blamed on three decades of rapid economic growth and lax enforcement of environmental protection laws. Activists say officials in China often turn a blind eye to industrial pollution or even collude with companies, as they seek to push forward local economic development at all costs.

Big bonus for bus workers

MELBOURNE An Australian bus operator has stunned his employees by handing out A$15 million (US$15.9 million) in thank you bonuses, with workers saying on February 1 they were overwhelmed by his generosity. Ken Grenda, 79, sold his family-run company after 66 years and decided to put a chunk of the profits into the pockets of his employees for their hard work and loyalty. Many of his 1800 workers thought their banks had made an error when they discovered thousands of dollars in their accounts, the Herald Sun reported. They received an average $8500 although some got bonuses as high as $100,000. A business is only as good as its people, and our people are fantastic, Grenda said. This is to recognise that. We have had people here who are second generation, and one fellow in the same job for 52 years. Vernon Franklin, a driver at the company for five years after moving to Melbourne from India, said he was blown away by the gesture. I was overwhelmed with the generosity of Mr Grenda, he told Channel Nine. I think we are losing a great man. AFP

Kangaroosand elephants?
PARIS Elephants could be introduced to Australia to eat an invasive African grass, according to an idea reported in a scientific journal on February 1. A major source of fuel for wildfires in the monsoon tropics is gamba grass, a giant African grass that has invaded north Australias savannas, said David Bowman, a professor of environmental change biology at the University of Tasmania. It is too big for marsupial grazers (kangaroos) and for cattle and buffalo, the largest feral mammals. But gamba grass is a great meal for elephants or rhinoceroses. Bowman, writing in the prestigious British journal Nature, admitted that introducing wild elephants to Australia may seem absurd. But the only other methods likely to control gamba grass involve using chemicals or physically clearing the land, which would destroy the habitat, he said. Using mega-herbivores may ultimately be more practical and cost-effective, and it would help to conserve animals that are threatened by poaching in their native environments. AFP

Workers check water supply pipes at Liuzhou, in Chinas Guangxi province on January 28, after industrial waste containing toxic cadmium polluted the Longjiang River. Pic: AFP Jinhe Mining Co has been blamed for dumping cadmium, a carcinogen which can seriously damage the kidneys, bones and respiratory system, into the river in a spill that was discovered on January 15. Another implicated company, Jinchengjiang Hongquan Lithopone Materials Factory, was producing the metal indium and disposing of waste directly into the ground, state media said. A doctor at Liuzhous main hospital said on February 1 there had been no reports of cadmium poisoning. AFP

Thailand to probe killing of four civilians by army

BANGKOK Thailand has ordered an investigation into the fatal shooting of four Muslim civilians by paramilitaries in the restive south, a top official said on January 31, after the deaths sparked local outrage. An elderly man and an 18-year-old boy were among those killed when Thai army rangers opened fire on a pick-up truck late on January 29 in Pattani, one of three Muslim-dominated southern provinces plagued by years of violence. Troops said they had heard a gunshot before the shooting, which also injured three other teenage boys and a 76-year-old man. Police said survivors told them that the truck was carrying mourners returning from a funeral. Today we are not convinced that we are absolutely in the right because the four victims are not militant sympathisers, said Deputy Prime Minister Yutthasak Sasiprapa, who oversees Thai national security. He said the probe would assess whether the proper procedures had been followed by paramilitaries, adding that if it was found that the men were shot in error, the state would apologise and pay compensation. A complex insurgency, waged without clearly stated aims, has riven Thailands deep south near the border with Malaysia for years, resulting in a heavy presence of government troops, supported by armed paramilitaries. Almost 5000 people have been killed and 8300 wounded since the unrest began in 2004, said local conflict monitor Deep South Watch. AFP

Scores feared trapped after ferry sinks

PORT MORESBY More than 100 missing passengers were feared trapped inside an overloaded ferry when it sank off Papua New Guinea, a maritime official said on February 3 as rescuers searched for more survivors. So far, 246 people have been plucked to safety in a joint rescue operation conducted by PNG and neighbouring Australia after the MV Rabaul Queen sank early the previous day. Australias Maritime Safety Authority said the ship went down about nine nautical miles off the coast and the survivors reached the eastern town of Lae in the early hours of February 3. Updated reports from the five rescue vessels indicate there were approximately 246 survivors recovered Thursday, AMSA said. trapped inside when the ship went down. He said it was hit by three large waves and quickly sank. PNG-based Rabaul Shipping, the owner of the vessel, said it lost contact with the MV Rabaul Queen while it was travelling between Kimbe and Lae. In a statement, it said there were 350 passengers and 12 crew onboard the Japanesebuilt vessel. Rahman said it was licensed to carry 310. The passengers were PNG citizens, many of them students studying at Lae, the ships destination and home to a large university. The catastrophe came just months after the town was rocked by PNGs worst air disaster in October which killed 28 people most of whom were believed to be parents travelling to graduation ceremonies. AFP

It said three merchant vessels remained on the scene with the search resuming at daylight assisted by two Australian planes and two local helicopters. But rescue co-ordinator Captain Nurur Rahman told AFP high winds and big seas were making it difficult. The winds have picked up and the seas are rough, making it very hard to

see anything other than white-cap waves, he said, but added that the sea temperature was warm which makes the possible survival times longer. Another rescue official, Rony Naigu from PNGs National Maritime Safety Authority was quoted by Australian broadcaster ABC as saying about 100 people were thought to have been

Time out
By May Sandy THE Institut Francaise de Birmanie celebrated its fourth annual photo festival on January 28, which proved its most successful yet, according to the festivals artistic director. The years best photoessays were shown on the night, taken from participants of the institutes intensive photo-essay workshops held throughout last year, as well as from individual submissions. Since the beginning of the Yangon Photo Festival in 2009, the interest and enthusiasm of the participants each year is growing, Christophe Loviny, the artistic director of the festival, told The Myanmar Times. We were able to come up with so many powerful stories. I was so touched by some of them. What is important is to touch the heart of the people. Of course youll get some technical skills but the strength of the story, its sensitivity, that in the end wins the heart of the people, he said. This years jury was led by Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, honoured as the festivals patron, and who personally congratulated the top three winners. Other members of the jury included U Soe Myint, owner and managing director of Mizzima, who also cosponsored the event, followed by French ambassador Thierry Mathou, the director of Institut Francaise de Birmanie Febrice

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Photo festival touches the heart

American citizen who works as an architect in Yangon. Id already looked at a couple of buildings in downtown Yangon but this particular one struck me, it was very special. I was drawn by how many different aspects of life it had: little shops, offices and the people living there themselves. It was almost like a world of its own. Observing the different lives of the people living in Lokanat, she was able to draw on the buildings past and its unsure status today. The building has an interesting past, it changed hands a few times and now it is owned by the government. One of my concerns was how the building could carry on. Obviously, it does need renovation and I wonder what will happen to the people who live in the building, she said. Many of the photo essays tackled social issues, including one essay, taken by Ko Ye Naung that documented a HIV prevention and care centre established by Ma Phyu Phyu Thin, herself a former prisoner of conscience and NLD member. As the evening came to its close, things took on a carnival atmosphere when one of the judges stunned the crowd by taking the stage to declare a donation of US$5000 to the centre and encouraging people for individual donations of $100, raising a further $2000. I was so touched seeing the work of so many generous Myanmar people, I wanted to give my support, he said.

Ma Phyu Phyu Thin (cente-left) stand nexts to Daw Aung San Suu Kyi at the close of the Yangon Photo Festival at the Institut Francaise de Birmanie on January 28. Pic: Thet Htoo Etienne and the festivals artistic director Christophe Loviny. The top three awards went first to U Myo Thame for his essay Gravel Girl; second prize went to Ma Seng Mai for Life Garden; and Ms Amlie Chai Shwe received third prize for Lokanat. U Myo Thame, said his photo-essay, which follows the story of a girl who carries gravel for a living alongside an interview soundtrack where she talks about her life. A friend of mine has this masonry business, said U Myo Thame, who is also a photographer for UNICEF . Whenever I go there I see these kids and I feel upset. I want to do something for them, sometimes giving them some money to buy icecream. I thought I couldnt do anything more than that. But as he got to know one of the girls through working with UNICEF, he struggled to come to terms with the contradiction of her situation and wanted to portray that to others. Although she is very poor, she is happy with her life. I struggled with this ... but I believe it is a way to freedom. I talked to her and in the end she sang for me, he said. For her essay, Ma Seng Mai said she wanted to show the life of Kachin children living in an child care centre, taking a year to fully get to know the children before working with them. I wanted to get close with them so that when I took pictures they would be natural. Understanding the childrens background also helped her build a narrative to the essay: telling the situation through the childrens voices. Im also a Kachin myself. Most of my people come from the same background of not living together with their parents. Some have lost their parents and some parents are working abroad. I thought it may affect them in certain ways when they grow up, become part of society and have their own family, said Ma Seng Mai, who was received the first prize at the Institutes 2009 Yangon Photo Festival. The third prize photo-essay, Lokanat, named after an old building in downtown Yangon, followed a different kind of subject to the other photoessays. Colonial buildings are a personal interest of mine, said Ms Amlie Chai Shwe, an

Events Flash
with ...

Theatre & Performance festival

A development of contemporary theatre and performance in Southeast Asia seminar will be held at the Institut Francais de Birmanie (No 340, Pyay Road) on February 3-4. The seminar is free admission for everyone. Eight local and international scholars/ artists will also conduct workshops and lectures on theatre and performance at the Institute from 6-9 February. Admission is free but places will be limited. Interested individuals may contact DiDi (or) Valentine Xenos at 536 900 and 537 122.

Nuam Bawi

Valentines Day Concert

Sai Sai Kham Laing, Ye Lay, Jauk Jack, Kyaw Htut Swe, Snare, Hlwan Paing, Bunny Phyoe, Wanted, Reason, Soe Tay, Wine Su Khine Thein, Mi Sandy and Bobby Soxer form the lineup for a music concert on February 14 at Myaw Sinkyun, Kandawgyi lake. Starting from 5pm, tickets are priced at K5000.

Saung Oo Hlaing One Man Show

Singer Saung Oo Hlaing will hold a one man show on February 17 at the National Theatre, donating all the proceeds to Free Funeral Service Society (Yangon), an orphanage and an association carrying out social work. He will perform alongside Plus Three music band, starting from 7pm. Tickets are priced at K15,000, K10,000 and K5000 and will be available from City Mart and MRTV-4.

Fridays Rock Concert

Han Tun, R Zarni, G Latt, Tha O, Linn Linn and Aung La will perform together with Metal Zone music band in a rock concert on February 10 at Kandawgyi, Myaw Sinkyun from 7pm. The ticket costs K5000 and is available at Ko Ko Beauty Saloon, Taw Win Center, Morning Star Cafe and Manthiri Recordings.

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Traditional Chin weaving sees revival

By Zon Pann Pwint MA Mai Ni Ni Aung wasnt so proud to be a Chin woman because for a long time they have been described as uncivilised, living in the wild parts of the country and wearing traditional dress. But she started to feel more confident in herself after she went to study in the West. When I studied abroad, living in a society that recognises multiculturalism, I came to realise that Chin has its own cultural identity. That stimulated me to retain my culture. I started to feel proud to be a Chin woman, says Mai Ni Ni Aung, a member of the Sonetu subgroup, which comprises just 50-odd villages in Southern Rakhine. She returned home after graduating from the University of London and started documenting the history and beliefs of Sonetu passed down by oral tradition. I began to keep a record of the oral history of Sonetu Chin in 2002, including rituals and customs, because they were disappearing. As a people who were once spirit worshipers became religious, they were losing these practices, she said. There were only seven elder spiritualists who could tell the history of Sonetu when she began to record the stories in 2002. As part of the documentary she sought out Sonetu traditional clothes in order to add life to her record but she found there was nothing much left. We a v i n g w a s s l o w l y disappearing along with many other aspects of their culture. Most Sonetu Chin people live in hill country. They once built the finest wooden houses because wood was abundant in the area. But with deforestation they lost a lot of their livelihood. When they faced financial difficulties, they even broke up their houses and sold the wood. Living on very little, they sold all their textiles. They couldnt buy threads to weave, so they were no longer weaving. Even so, each household still owns a loom, she said. There were a few old Sonetu women who came to us to listen to the oral history. They told us they possessed traditional skills in weaving and they wanted to share it with the young generation before they passed away, she said. Inspired by the old Sonetu women, she decided to offer support, starting the Sonetu Loom Weaving Project. She recruited old weavers from different villages in southern Rakhine state to revive the traditional craft. I started with 16 women over the age of 60. They are all illiterate but very adept at weaving complex patterns, which requires years of practice and a passion for weaving, she said. They hadnt woven for many years, some times even 20 years. It was wonderful that they have such a clear memory of how to weave these intricate patterns. At the beginning she focused on Sonetu Chin weaving where patterns represent such things as ritual performances, mangrove trees and elephants feet. But later she was able to expand to preserve Laytu and Mro Chin patterns that were disappearing too. In January 2010 she provided weaving training for Mro Chin in Kyauktaw township, Rakhine state. At first, I decided to revive my own groups weaving technique I thought my weaving preservation wouldnt last if we didnt find a market for their work. I needed resources to keep the traditional craft preservation going, she said.

An exhibition of Sonetu, Laytu and Mro Chin textiles is currently on display in Sharkys restaurant until the end of February. Pic: Thet Htoo When my work became known internationally, I was commissioned by the Brighton Museum, the Textile Museum Washington DC and the Museum of Asian Civilisations in Singapore, she said. Her project is now wellestablished, employing more than 80 women in southern Rakhine and selling in Myanmar and abroad. Some of their finest works can be seen at Sharkys Restaurant (No 117, Dhamazedi Road, Kamaryut township) until the end of February. But she came to realise that marketing the work was not enough to keep the culture alive. Some of the old weavers who were actively involved in my project from the beginning are no longer weaving anymore because of poor eyesight, but they can teach the technique to young weavers, she said. Many young weavers are illiterate too. I believe that education plays an important role in keeping our culture alive and income alone cant help in keeping our tradition going, she said. She sells the best textiles that her employees weave and then spends the money on weaving training given by the master weavers for the young women in the villages of southern Rakhine state. She also established a youth hostel in Minbya in Rakhine state where weavers from remote villages can gain access to the state-run schools in Minbya township. They can devote more time to weaving. Now they can send their children to school and keep pigs for breeding when they are comfortable, she added. In December 2010, National Geographic awarded her a grant to document the weaving process. Director Shin Daewi from Yangon Film School (YFS) will film the process of Sonetu and Laytu Chin weaving in midFebruary. With this aim to record the techniques of Sonetu and Laytu Chin weaving that National Geographic granted us, I hope young Chin can continue to learn the technique from the documentary when the old women are no longer here, she said.

Miss Myanmar goes double as tourism rises

By Yu Yu Maw and Nuam Bawi THINK youve got what it takes to be a national tourism ambassador? This year offers two chances as Myanmar Tourism Board (MTB), organisers of the Miss Myanmar 2012 pageant, and the Union of Myanmar Travel Association (UMTA) are both giving contestants the chance to represent the country. UMTA will hold their Miss Tourism 2012 on March 2 at the National Theatre, while MTB have started accepting entries for their March 25 competition to be held at the Myanmar Convention Centre in Yangon. We would like to invite people from all over the country to participate in this contest, said U Khin Maung Yin, vice chairman of Myanmar Tourism Board (MTB). However, organisers of the Miss Myanmar pageant have also announced strict entry criteria: applicants must be aged 18 to 25, at least five feet, four inches (162 centimetres) tall and some knowledge about the tourism industry. The contest will feature three stages, with participants donning traditional, sports and evening wear. They can participate even if they dont have experience, said U Lin Htein, managing director of Myanmar Tourism Service, which is co-hosting the event with the Talent and Model agency. The winner will become an ambassador for MTB and will have to attend international tourism expos. The main objective of this contest are promotion our country and let everyone Similarly, U Naung Naung Han, a UMTA executive, told reporters at a press conference held at Chatrium Hotel on January 31 that they will be looking to support contestants in their bid to become this years Miss Tourism. We started organising this competition since 2010 but as this year our country is getting more attention from tourists from around the world we wanted to upgrade compared to the last two years, he said. We will offer a trip to Bagan and some filming programs for the 20 shortlisted contestants. We will also provide lectures on tourism which will help them answer questions at the final competition, he added. U Naung Naung Han also stated that basic knowledge about tourism and English proficiency are required to enter the competition. As we will use them as an ambassador they will have to go abroad and promote our country so they will have to use English language to communicate with foreigners, he said. Last years Miss Tourism, Khin Yu Pa, said the award was very important for her as it wasnt just representing a product. Not only did I get the chance to visit countries I wanted to visit, but Im also representing our country, she said. UMTA is offering K1.5 million for the winner of the Miss Tourism 2012, K1 million for the runner up and K500,000 for third place. Application forms are available from February 1-13 at the Union of Myanmar Federation Chambers of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI) for K3000 each.

Save the Children holds documentary, photo exhibition

SAVE the Children is holding an inaugural screening of a documentary on child rights and civil society on February 8th at 10:00 AM at Gallery 65 (No 65 Yaw Mingyi Road, Dagon township) to raise awareness of their work in the country. The documentary and accompanying photo exhibition will be open to the public at Gallery 65 from February 8-14. This exhibition is aimed at raising awareness, promoting civil society as vanguards of child rights and protection and to show transparently what is happening, said the Director of Child Protection and Child Rights Governance, David Brickey Bloomer. Child rights are still not fully understood in Myanmar and event like this helps to spread that knowledge among the general public. Many children suffer violence and exploitation in this country but nobody wants to talk about it and so they dont. However, we are not organising this event to point out that people are not working for the cause but to show what is happening and how can we solve these issues together. We believe that holding this event is an additional way for us to promote the important role of civil society and communities in addressing and preventing child rights violations. We believe we can only get success by co-operating with everyone, he said. Save the Children has invited officials from the government, embassies, local community groups, INGOs, UN agencies and the general public at large as a means of promoting more effective collaborative efforts. The documentary will screen four stories on a range of child issues, including trafficking, neglect, working children, and children and armed conflict from four different parts of the country. . The exhibition also includes photographs highlighting key child rights issues and the work of civil society. The event will be free of charge to everyone. Nuam Bawi

Miss Tourism 2011, Khin Yu Pa, accepts her award. Pic: LMM around the world know about our countrys beauty, he said. MTB will also give the winner K3 million, while the first and second runners up will receive K1.5 million and K1 million respectively. U Lin Htein said the ceremony would also feature dance shows, performances from famous singers, a lucky draw and other activities. Entry forms can be purchased for K10,000 from Myanmar Tourism Services (Room 1010, Yuzana Tower, corner of Shwegonedaing and Kabar Aye Pagoda roads, Bahan township) or the MTB (No 3/A, Waizayandar and Thanthutmar roads, Thingangyun township) from January 23. Application forms will also be available at locations outside Yangon at a later date, U Htein Lin said.

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many feel domestic art is a riskier bet. Pr i c e s w e r e s k y rocketing and there were very high-value transactions taking place, Kirpal said, remembering the dramatic bubble in Indian art prices that burst in about 2008. What is required for a sustainable market is more people who are quality collectors who look at art in the long-term, she said. At the fair, Graham Steele, director of the world-leading White Cube gallery in London, showed off work by Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin and Antony Gormley, and said he was eager to see the publics response. The market is not yet hospitable to the international blue-chip art category but there is amazing interest which is very impressive, he said. We have not brought these works to sell, but to expose the artists to the Indian scene and learn ourselves about it. One gallery owner at the fair, Peter Femfert from Frankfurt, said he had seen collectors in other emerging markets such as South Korea move from their own homegrown art to world classics. It is the way collectors move, he said, promoting a large oil painting by Andre Masson. You can come here and buy off the wall. There are rich people in this country. Why not? AFP

MyanMar tiMes

Art dealers target new money in India

By Ben Sheppard NEW DELHI The first works by Van Gogh and Picasso to be auctioned by an Indian gallery are on display at a luxury hotel in New Delhi, a sign that dealers in Western art are now chasing local money. The 1885 Van Gogh landscape LAlee aux deux promeneurs and the 1953 Picasso oil Le Transformateur are being previewed ahead of a sale next month when 73 lots by top Impressionist and modern artists will go under the hammer. The auction will be the first sale of international masterpieces to target India, where a developing interest in Western art has been fuelled by strong economic growth. Indian collectors dont necessarily have access to this sort of work but they have grown up with these big names, said Abha Housego, representative of Saffron Art, which is conducting the online auction. It is a major challenge to do something like this for the first time. Housego said that wealthy Indian collectors were broadening out from Indian artists such as M. F. Hussain, the celebrated painter who died last year, towards international stars. Indian art is strong but Van Gogh represents a gold standard for buyers, she

Visitors attend the India Art Fair in New Delhi on January 25. Pic: AFP said. These names bring people in. Timed to coincide with the fourth annual India Art Fair in the city, the auction preview also includes work by Marc Chagall and Henry Moore alongside the Van Gogh which has an estimated auction price touching US$1 million. There is such a burgeoning art market here and a fantastic economic scenario, the fairs founder Neha Kirpal told AFP. For the first fair we had three foreign galleries, but this year it will be 45 foreign galleries from 20 countries. Kirpal said the fair, which opened on February 2, tries to balance development of the local art scene with education of a new generation of collectors who will have an ongoing interest in top-class work. The seriousness of foreign galleries at the show is very obvious as European dealers are in need of new markets, she said. There is saturation in some markets, as well as the changing economic environment. In India there is optimism, looking especially at the growth in the luxury and lifestyle sectors. Whether the new money will invest in Indian or international art is the key dilemma for dealers, but

Vinyl makes the world turn again

By Sebastian Smith NEW YORK In todays brave new world of MP3 players, compact discs are dying, cassettes are Stone Age, and old-fashioned vinyl records ... are back! It might seem that nothing short of a wind-up gramophone could be more out of place today than the nostalgia-laden, crackly-sounding 33 and 45 RPM disc. Yet in his Brooklyn, New York, factory, 40-year-old Thomas Bernich churns them out by the tens of thousands, feeding a vinyl revival that has record decks and cash tills spinning. Its my baby, Bernich said in his spartan office at Brooklynphono. Its growing. The small plant in a blue collar neighbourhood hums with the sound of machines and spaghettilike rows of pipes delivering ground-up vinyl to presses where the material reemerges as shiny albums etched with near-invisible, music-filled spirals. Bernich started on a shoestring 10 years ago. Now he has four full-time employees and two parttime, manufacturing a quarter of a million discs a year, with plans to double capacity. In an age of near-instant music downloads and entire libraries stored in gizmos the size of a cigarette lighter, the arcane process of making records defies convention. But the market is vibrant. Alan Bayer, who runs the online record store vinylrevinyl.com, said records refuse to go the way of the crumbling cassette tape or passe CD. The only music stores that have managed to stay in business in my area are ones that devote an important percentage of their stores to vinyl records, he said in an email from California. Purists swear that music sounds better from records than from compressed digital files. Collectors love the hunt for rare, scratch-free recordings, not to mention the art-filled sleeves. Young DJs, or turntablists, turn their parents fusty old technology into the hippest of night-club tools, while bands looking to make a name for themselves commission records so that they can stand out in the sea of YouTube videos and downloads. We give the band a record, they make 300 records, then drive around the country for the summer playing and the records all get sold out of the back of the van, Bernich said. Other than helping to create a fan base, fresh bands with a shiny record often find the labels take them very seriously. Scott Neuman, president of ForeverVinyl.com, an appraisal service and dealer, said sales of newly minted records were for the first time overtaking those of pre-existing records. Meanwhile, the pre-owned market, he said, is being flooded by people emptying out their basements in search of a quick buck. Retailers will pay about 25 US cents for a single, ordinary record or sleeve, then resell for between US$1-$5, he said. But more sought-after editions quickly go for $100 or far more. Neuman said hed got $10,000 for a rare sleeve to the Rolling Stones album Street Fighting Man. The cover, depicting a policeman beating a man, had been withdrawn soon after release because of complaints. Although thousands were made, only a handful survive. You have people who mine for gold and if they get an ounce of gold after digging in dirt for days and days theyre happy, he said. Its like that. Vinyl fans say theres also something in the physical attractiveness of the record and the ritual of using turntables that the MP3, like the CD, cannot match. Its personal. You get to spend more time with the music, said Jeff Ogiba, who opened Black Gold, a Brooklyn records store and coffee shop, 18 months ago. The last decade and a half has been an information age, so there are a lot of things that are intangible. People want to go out and have physically tangible things because now you press a button and a package comes to your door, Ogiba said. Bernich says making records is not all fun. Its very over-worked and underpaid. And he likens the manufacturing process, dependent on variables such as air temperature and inconsistent chemical components in the vinyl, to a moving target, a shot in the dark. But there is magic, too. At Brooklynphono all of last years production was made from recycled records mountains of Neil Young discs and their ilk pulled from musty old cupboards and shelves, then smashed, melted, and reborn as the very latest releases.

A worker packages new records at a record factory belonging to Thomas Bernich in New York on January 17. Pic: AFP When there are sound quality problems, Bernich will exchange the great, heaving machines of his shop floor for a microscope through which he can examine the music-filled grooves for flaws. A lifelong mechanic with the heart of an artist, Bernich says record-making makes his world go round. Im in a passionate state of mind, he said. AFP

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1st Anniversary of Asian Wings Airways

Hasselhoff proposes atop Sydney Harbour Bridge

SYDNEY Baywatch and Knight Rider star David Hasselhoff on January 31 proposed to girlfriend Hayley Roberts, 28 years his junior, on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Hasselhoff, 59, posted the news on his Twitter account, but left his followers guessing over how Roberts, a Welsh factory worker, replied. Tried it again on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. What do you think she said?, he tweeted, alongside a picture of him on one knee and another of the pair embracing during a climb to the top of the Sydney icon. According to reports, the twicemarried father-of-two has asked the 31-year-old to marry him before, once in his Britains Got Talent dressing room and again atop a mountain in Cape Town, South Africa. Hasselhoff is in Australia filming reality television show Celebrity Apprentice Australia.

U Kyi Win

U Wai Linn, U Lwin Moe and guest

U Kyaw Tun

U Myint Swe

Airhostess

Myo Thein Electronic (Yangon) branch launches

Dragon Tattoo cancelled in India over nudity

MUMBAI Sony Pictures will not release its blockbuster movie The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo in India after censors demanded that scenes showing bare bottoms be blurred. The Hollywood film starring Daniel Craig about a journalists search for a woman missing for 40 years was due to be released on February 10, but it ran into problems with Indias Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Bare bottom and bare-breast scenes are not allowed in India, J.P. Singh, an official at CBFC, told AFP. We objected to several scenes in The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo and wanted them to be blurred. Sony Pictures in India acknowledged in a statement sent to AFP on January 30 that it would not compromise on the content of the film, which has grossed US$185 million worldwide. The Censor Board has adjudged the film unsuitable for public viewing in its unaltered form, the statement said. And while we are committed to maintaining and protecting the vision of the director, we will, as always, respect the guidelines set by the board. The movie directed by David Fincher, whose previous hits include Fight Club and The Social Network, is the first US interpretation of a hugely popular book series by late Swedish writer Stieg Larsson.

U Myo Thein, U Win Aung and Daw Tin Tin Swe

Daw Tin Tin Swe and guests

Staffs

ILBC Art & Science Fair

Scorsese wins nod in Oscars dog fight

LOS ANGELES Hollywood veteran Martin Scorsese has won a pre-Oscars dog fight by securing an 11th hour nomination for the four-legged star of his latest movie in a canine contest. Scorsese wrote an open letter to the Los Angeles Times last weekend lamenting that Blackie, the snarling Doberman from his top-Oscar tipped movie Hugo, had been left out of nominees for the Golden Collar award. The frontrunner for the dog award is widely seen as Uggie, the cute trick-performing Jack Russell from silent movie The Artist, which is snapping at Scorseses heels with 10 nominations against 11 nods for Hugo. Contest organisers Dog News Daily responded to Scorseses letter by promising to nominate Blackie if at least 500 people backed him by liking its Facebook page. A deluge of message calls for Blackie to be nominated followed easily more than 500 in 24 hours, said a statement on the dog-friendly website. Blackies name has been added to the Best Dog in a Theatrical Film category as the sixth and final nominee in that category, said Dog News Daily head Alan Siskind. But the Goodfellas and Taxi Driver director admits that, while Blackie would win paws-down in a fight, he may have problems winning sympathy against the cute dog from French-directed The Artist.

Students post with own creation

Adele to make comeback at Grammys

LOS ANGELES British soul singer Adele is to make her much-awaited comeback after throat surgery at the upcoming Grammys show, organisers of the music industry awards bash said on January 31. Adele, who is nominated for six awards, including three of the key categories at the February 12 show, has been out of action since October when a throat problem forced her to cancel all engagements for the rest of the year. Im immensely proud to have been asked to perform at this years Grammy Awards, said Adele, whose hits include Someone Like You and Rolling in the Deep, in a statement issued by Grammys organisers The Recording Academy. Its an absolute honour to be included in such a night, and for it to be my first performance in months is very exciting and of course nerve-racking, but what a way to get back into it all, she added. Adele, 23, has continued to attract awards nominations and wins despite being dogged by her health problems last year, and was second only to Kanye west in Grammys nods. The US rapper is up for seven prizes.

Participants

Performers

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soCialite
February 6 - 12, 2012
SOCIALITE started her week by dropping in on the third solo show by artist Ngwe Phyo at City Star Hotel before attending the first anniversary of Asian Wings Airways at Sedona Hotel on the evening of January 23. The following day, she popped in on the opening of The Girl in the Red Scarf Saloon on Inya Road and then whisked off to the 33rd anniversary of vocalist Phyu Thi at Park Royal Hotel. On January 25 she went to the press launch of Korean Trip hosted by Eushido & Insin hair care products at Central Hotel. There was time to join the ILBC Art & Science Fair hosted at ILBC School, Tarmwe township before tasting cultural food delights at the Korea Food Fair 2012 at Orange Super Market on January 28. The same day she also attended the Art Exhibition at Market Place (City Mart) and the Chinese new year party of U Aik Htun at his residence. Then on January 29 it was down to the Myo Thein Electronic Center (Yangon Branch) opening on Bo Aung Kyaw road and the Calsome Nutritious Cereal competition 2012.

MyanMar tiMes
Phyu Thi 33rd anniversary

Phyu Thi

Saw Khu Sae and wife

Htar

Moh Moh

Chinese New Year party of U Aik Htun

Eushido & Insin cosmetics press for South Korea Trip

Ma Mi Mi Khine, Dr Sandar Tun Guest, Daw Win Win Tin, U Aik Htun and U Soe Moe Thu

Ma Thuzar A guest, U Aik Htun and Mr Mikhail Mgeladze

Ma Toe Toe Yee

Ko Sithu

Staffs

Guests

Korea Food Fair 2012

The Girl in the Red Scarf Saloon opening

Ma Shwe Yee, Eaindra Kyaw Zin and Mrs Popa

Attendees

Girls in Korean costumes

Attendees

Premier coffees staffs

Ma Sandar, Ma Theingi, Ma Shwe Yee, Ma Pwint Phyu and Dr Pyone Pyone Han

Artist Ngwe Phyos Third Exhibition press

Artist Ngwe Soe

U Tin Maung Win

Artist Ngwe Phyo

U Nyan Kyal

Art Show by Market Place (City Mart)

Artist Min Myint Khine

Artist Hla Phone Aung

Artist Win Pe Myint and artist Aung Kyaw San

Ma Cho Thet Aung Soe and Daw May Thin Nwe

Daw Thidar Aung and Daw Thazin Lay

Competition 2012 of Calsome Nutritious Cereal

Contest

Contestants

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February 6 - 12, 2012
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Tiger Air buys Mandala stake

SINGAPORE Singapore budget airline Tiger Airways said last week it had bought a 33 percent stake in beleaguered Indonesian carrier PT Mandala Airlines as part of its regional expansion plans. The investment will see Tiger Airways become the second biggest shareholder in Mandala, which has undergone financial restructuring after being grounded in January last year due to massive debts. Indonesian investment company Saratoga Group will hold a 51.3 percent stake while the remaining 15.7pc will be held by Mandalas previous shareholders and creditors. Tiger said in a statement the investment in Mandala will be held through a wholly owned subsidiary, Roar Aviation Pte Ltd and expects the firms air operators certificate to be reactivated next month and flights to resume in April. Mandala Airlines which was owned by the Indonesian military until 2006 when private investors took over will adopt Tiger Airways low-cost carrier model and will use Airbus A320 aircraft in its fleet. It aims to fly within Indonesia and to international destinations within a five-hour flying radius. The number of aircraft, and the initial routes and destinations will be announced once all approvals have been granted by the regulators and authorities, said Tiger Airways, which is partly owned by Singapore Airlines. Mandala is the first of Tiger Airways joint venture cubs and represents a significant step in our efforts to expand our paw print in this region, said Tiger Airways Holdings Ltd chief executive Chin Yau Seng. Tiger Airways, which has domestic operations in Australia, has been looking for expansion opportunities in Asia and last year it raised more than S$158 million (US$126 million) in a rights issue to fund its plans, including the purchase of aircraft. The acquisition comes as Tiger Airways itself struggles to rebuild its dented reputation after aviation regulators in Australia grounded its domestic services for six weeks last year, citing safety concerns. The suspension in July last year led to a major management shake-up in the airline, which is partially owned by Singapore Airlines and government investment arm Temasek Holdings. AFP

A letter to heaven
By Aye Min Tun AS a tourist guide I often accompany my clients throughout their journeys around Myanmar. In October 2010 my travel agent assigned me to an American couple, who spent 10 days travelling to various tourist sites in the country. Their names were Jean and Scott Adam. I met them when they arrived from Thailand at Yangon International Airport. I was waiting with their names written on a welcome board, and they smiled when we greeted one another. Scott was in his late 60s, short for an American man and slightly overweight. Jean was of average height and slimmer than her husband. On the way to the hotel, I introduced them to Yangon and Myanmar with some information about the history, weather and people. They checked into their room, took a short break and then we went sightseeing in Yangon. We started by visiting the Chaukhtatgyi reclining Buddha image, then stopped for lunch where I was able to learn more about Jean and Scott. It emerged that Scott was a film producer, and he had married Jean 10 years earlier after his first wife passed away. They lived in California, and since their children had grown up and left home, Scott and Jean were yachting round the world. They were proud of their yacht, which was called the Quest. It was made in New Zealand, Scott said, and it is pretty well built. During their visit to Myanmar, they had left the yacht in Phuket, Thailand, to be reconditioned before their next voyage. I had never met yacht owners before. Their conversation was so frank and friendly that my professional smile soon turned into something more. At dusk we visited Shwedagon Pagoda, and Scott and Jean were greatly impressed not only by the elegant, gilded spire but also by the faith shining from the calm faces of the local people paying homage at this holy place. When night fell, I took them to Junior Duck restaurant along the Yangon River for dinner. We were happily drinking Myanmar beer before the meal when our chat turned to the subject of their next voyage. A light breeze was blowing across the river and our faces were a little flushed with cold. When we get back to Thailand, well go for a diving trip and then well fly home to Los Angeles to buy some things for the journey, Scott said. He said that after they returned to Phuket to pick up their boat, they would sail to Sri Lanka. After a week there, well sail on to India and across the Indian Ocean, you know, the dangerous place close to Somalia, he said. I did not reply but nodded to indicate that I knew about the dangers of that sea. I told them what I had heard about Somali pirates. They both seemed fully aware of all this, yet were quite undeterred almost, it seemed to me, complacent. Wed wave to the pirates, Scott joked. We dont steer by the stars anymore. Our boat is well equipped and there are rescue stations everywhere for sailors. They both laughed at my concern but I wondered if it was the beer that was speaking. A sudden gust of wind from the river blew away our tablecloth and Jeans fork fell to the floor. At that moment I felt a chill in my heart. I begged them not to talk about pirates anymore and urged them to prepare for their next voyage with the greatest care. My anxiety astonished them. They asked me to explain. I did my best to set out how Myanmar people have a superstition about the dire consequences of scoffing at the dangers of a planned journey. This belief springs from Oriental cosmology, which places us in the Southern Island beside Mount Meru. On this island, where the holy Eugenia tree grows, Atit Namit can come true. As detailed in Dr Than Tuns 1960 book The Influence of Occultism in Myanmar History with Special Reference to Bodawpayas Reign 1782-1819, Atit means to draw an analogy between what is happening at present and what is likely to happen in the near future. Namit prophesises danger and is sensed by those with intuition. When I had finished my explanation, there was a long pause until our food arrived at the table. The American couple seemed reluctant to heed our superstition. Still, we enjoyed the meal. Next day we flew to Bagan. Scott and Jean said they were amazed by such a cluster of ancient monuments. After three days there, we flew to Mandalay, where we spent another three days. Then we flew to Heho and drove to Lake Inle. Jean and Scott fell in love with the scenery, brushed with the many shades of local life. Three days later we flew to Yangon, where they were scheduled to catch an evening flight to Thailand. With some spare time before check-in we went to Scott Market, where Scott bought Jean a ruby ring to mark their 10th wedding anniversary. After lunch, we returned to the airport where we said our heartfelt farewells and exchanged email addresses, with Jean promising she would keep in touch. Goodbye, Aye, she said. After what you told us, well be very careful when were sailing. A bus took me back to Mandalay the next evening. From then on, when I checked my emails each day, I had frequent messages from Jean. They had their own website (www.svquest.com), on which they shared news of their travels with wellorganised posts. They also posted photos and comments about our trip together. I read how, as soon as they rejoined the Quest in Phuket, they set out on a very enjoyable diving trip. Time went by and the date for departure on their next big voyage drew nearer. When I checked my emails on December 31, 2010, I found a New Year greeting from Adam and Jean, and a plan for their trip. According to their itinerary, they would leave Phuket on January 1, and over the next four months stop in Sri Lanka, India, Oman, Djibouti and Egypt. They added that they were pleased to have some company, a couple from Seattle. All four of them were ready for adventure. Jeans later emails told of visits to Galle, Sri Lanka, and Cochin, India. They were also forced to make an unplanned stop at Mumbai because the propeller and rudder were giving them trouble. Their last email arrived on February 12, 2011. They were bound for Oman. I had no word of them after that day. Sometime later I was sipping a beer in a bar after a long day when I happened to buy a local weekly. It had an item about the Quest. I was shocked to read that the yacht had been hijacked at sea by Somali pirates, and Jean and Scott Adam, along with their travel companions, had been taken hostage. The US Navy had tried but failed to negotiate with the pirates. In the ensuing confusion, all four hostages were shot and killed by their kidnappers. This tragedy had occurred on February 22, little more than one week after my last email from Jean. Who can be blamed for such a horrifying turn of events? Its the sort of thing you hope never happens, but it did happen, just as I feared on that happy evening when the wind blew away a tablecloth beside the Yangon River. If, as I hope, Jean and Scott are now somewhere in heaven, perhaps they can read this pathetic letter to them.

AIRLINE OFFICES
Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)

56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102 Air Asia (FD) 33, Alan Pya Pagoda Rd, Ground Flr, Parkroyal Hotel, Yangon. Tel: 251 885, 251 886.

Air China (CA)

Building (2), corner of Pyay Rd and Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Hotel Yangon, 8 miles, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel : 666112, 655882.

Bangkok Airways (PG)

Yangon. Tel: 255122, 255 265, Fax: 255119

#0305, 3rd Fl, Sakura Tower, 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Kyauktada Tsp,

Air India

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

Myanmar Airways International(8M)

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

Malaysia Airlines (MH)

335/357, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 387648, 241007 ext : 120, 121, 122 Fax : 241124 339, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, 2nd Floor, Sakura Tower, Kyauktada Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: 255 287~9 , Fax: 255 290

Silk Air(MI)

Thai Airways (TG)

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

Vietnam Airlines (VN)

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

Domestic Airlines
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.

Air Bagan Ltd.(W9)

56, Shwe Taung Gyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 513322, 513422, 504888, Fax : 515102

AIR KBZ (K7)

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

Air Mandalay (6T)

146, Dhamazedi Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon Tel : 501520, 525488 (Head Office) 720309, 652753, 652754 (Airport Office), Fax: 525 937

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

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February 6 - 12, 2012

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DOMESTIC FLIGHT SCHEDULES

DAYS
FRI FRI MON

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SCHEDULES

DAYS
MON

Flight
K7 244 K7 245 6T 405 AW 891 6T 401 6T 801 W9 011 AW 761 6T 451 K7 824 6T 501 K7 228 YH 909 6T 405 W9 251 6T 401 YH 729 6T 451 K7 622 AW 791 6T 501 6T 405 AW 891 6T 401 6T 331 6T 801 YH 737 K7 824 W9 261 YH 731 6T 501 K7 228 YH 909 AW 891 6T 405 AW 201 6T 401 W9 255 YH 729 6T 451 K7 622 K7 226 6T 501 YH 731 AW 891 6T 405 W9 251 6T 401 YH 917 AW 751 K7 824 6T 451 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 W9 271 6T 403 YH 909 6T 401 AW 601 6T 801 YH 729 K7 622 6T 501 AW 891 YH 909 AW 891 6T 401 W9 255 6T 405 AW 751 6T 451 K7 622 YH 634 AW 892 6T 402 W9 262 6T 802 W9 021 AW 762 YH 728 6T 502 K7 825 W9 009 6T 406 6T 402 YH 910 W9 011 K7 229 YH 812 W9 251 W9 150 AW 762 YH 730 6T 502

Dep Arr
13:00 15:50 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:15 07:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 11:00 11:30 12:00 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:00 10:45 11:00 12:00 13:30 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 10:30 11:30 12:00 12:30 15:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 11:00 11:00 11:30 13:00 15:00 15:00 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 07:00 08:30 10:30 12:00 15:00 16:15 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 07:00 11:00 12:00 12:00 08:35 08:35 08:55 10:50 13:20 14:10 16:25 16:30 17:20 17:50 08:30 08:40 08:55 09:25 09:25 11:15 13:25 13:35 16:20 16:25 17:20 17:20 15:30 16:50 08:20 08:20 08:35 09:15 08:30 12:55 12:55 13:25 17:00 07:25 07:55 08:20 07:55 08:35 12:40 12:55 13:25 16:25 17:00 07:35 08:20 08:35 08:25 12:10 13:10 13:25 07:55 17:10 17:00 07:25 07:55 08:20 08:20 07:55 08:35 08:55 13:30 12:55 13:25 13:55 17:00 17:10 08:20 07:40 07:55 08:35 08:50 12:25 12:25 12:55 14:25 17:00 17:10 07:25 07:40 07:55 08:35 08:25 09:55 13:30 13:25 17:00 08:20 08:30 08:20 08:35 08:55 09:05 12:25 13:25 13:25 10:00 10:30 10:55 12:15 14:45 15:10 17:50 17:55 19:25 19:15 09:30 10:40 10:55 10:50 11:10 12:40 14:50 15:00 17:45 17:50 18:45 19:25

DAYS
WED

Flight
W9 009 AW 892 6T 406 6T 332 6T 402 W9 021 6T 802 YH 738 K7 825 6T 502 W9 009 AW 892 6T 406 6T 402 YH 812 W9 021 K7 229 AW 762 YH 730 6T 502 W9 009 AW 892 YH 918 6T 402 AW 202 W9 251 YH 731 6T 502 W9 232 YH 728 6T 404 AW 892 6T 402 W9 011 W9 262 AW 602 YH 812 6T 802 K7 623 YH 730 6T 502 W9 009 YH 910 AW 892 6T 402 W9 011 6T 406 W9 256 YH 812 K7 623 AW 752 YH 738 6T 502 W9 143 AW 891 YH 633 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 W9 143 6T 405 6T 401 AW 891 K7 222 YH 917 W9 143 6T 405 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 K7 242 AW 781 AW 891 6T 405 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 AW 891 6T 405 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 K7 242 AW 891 6T 403 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 6T 451 W9 143 AW 891 YH 909 W9 009 6T 401 K7 222 YH 917 K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502

Dep Arr
08:30 08:35 08:40 08:45 08:55 14:10 15:35 17:10 17:50 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:40 08:55 13:10 14:10 15:45 16:25 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:50 08:55 11:00 13:35 17:10 17:20 17:35 17:45 08:00 08:35 08:55 09:25 10:50 12:20 13:10 13:20 16:55 17:15 17:20 08:30 08:35 08:35 08:55 09:25 09:25 11:20 13:10 16:55 17:10 17:10 18:10 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 15:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 07:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 10:30 06:00 06:15 06:15 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 09:30 10:30 10:40 10:10 10:55 15:10 17:00 18:35 19:15 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:40 10:55 14:35 15:10 17:10 17:50 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:30 10:45 10:55 12:25 15:00 19:25 19:25 19:00 19:10 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:10 12:15 13:45 14:35 14:45 18:20 18:45 19:25 09:30 10:00 10:30 10:55 11:10 11:25 12:45 14:35 18:20 18:35 18:35 20:15 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:50 07:50 08:05 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:35 07:50 08:05 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:50 08:05 08:20 17:10 07:35 07:35 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 07:35 08:30 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 08:20 07:35 08:30 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 11:50 07:20 07:35 07:50 07:25 07:50 07:50 08:05 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25

DAYS
TUE

Flight
K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 AW 792 6T 502 YH 732 K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 W9 109 AW 782 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 AW 792 YH 732 6T 502 K7 223 YH 910 W9 109 YH 732 6T 502 W9 255 W9 251 AW 201 W9 255 W9 251 AW 211 W9 255 W9 256 W9 252 AW 202 W9 256 W9 252 W9 256 6T 801 6T 405 W9 119 AW 761 YH 727 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 K7 822 W9 115 AW 761 YH 811 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 W9 119 YH 737 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 AW 761 YH 811 K7 224 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 224 W9 109 6T 501 YH 731 K7 822 AW 751 W9 119 YH 811 K7 224 6T 501 YH 731 W9 115 YH 811 K7 826 6T 501 K7 224 YH 731 YH 737

Dep Arr
08:10 08:40 17:25 17:25 18:05 18:10 08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:25 17:55 18:05 08:10 08:40 17:25 17:55 18:55 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:30 06:00 06:30 09:45 12:05 09:35 09:45 12:05 09:45 07:15 07:30 11:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 14:00 14:30 15:00 15:00 08:00 11:00 11:00 11:00 14:00 15:00 15:00 11:00 11:00 12:30 14:00 14:00 15:00 11:00 11:15 10:00 18:20 18:45 19:25 19:30 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 19:15 19:25 11:15 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 18:45 19:15 19:25 11:15 10:00 18:20 19:15 20:15 09:25 09:25 09:20 09:25 09:25 08:50 09:25

Flight
W9 143 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 K7 823 W9 116 W9 143 AW 892 6T 406 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 6T 406 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 AW 892 YH 918 6T 406 6T 402 K7 223 W9 143 AW 892 YH 918 6T 402 K7 223 K7 823 AW 892 YH 918 W9 011 6T 402 K7 223 6T 406 W9 116 YH 738 6T 452

Dep Arr
09:05 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 15:15 16:45 09:05 09:20 09:30 09:35 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:30 09:35 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:20 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 09:05 09:20 09:35 09:45 10:00 15:15 09:20 09:35 09:40 09:45 10:00 10:15 16:45 17:20 17:25 10:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 16:30 17:55 10:15 10:30 10:40 10:45 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:40 10:45 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:30 10:45 10:50 10:55 11:15 10:15 10:30 10:45 10:55 11:15 16:30 10:30 10:45 10:35 10:55 11:15 11:25 17:55 18:35 18:35

Flight
MON FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 TUE FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306

Dep
08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:30 08:50 09:50 10:55 16:30 16:40 17:40 19:45 08:40 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40 08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40

Arr
10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 10:15 10:35 11:45 12:50 18:15 18:35 19:25 21:40 13:05 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15 12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15

Flight
SAT 8M 231 MI 511 8M 6232 MI 517 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517

Dep
08:00 10:10 11:25 16:40 08:00 10:10 14:15 16:40

Arr
12:25 14:45 15:50 21:15 12:25 14:45 18:40 21:15

Flight
MON 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 TUE 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332

Dep
07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 16:25 15:00 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:10 07:10 07:55 09:15 15:00 16:25 17:50 19:25 07:55 14:10 14:20 19:40 07:55 14:10 14:20 19:40 07:55 09:10 14:10 14:20 07:55 14:10 14:20 15:20 19:40 07:55 09:10 14:10 14:20 15:20

Arr
07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 17:10 15:50 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 07:55 07:55 08:50 10:05 15:50 17:10 18:45 20:10 09:20 15:35 15:45 21:05 09:20 15:35 15:45 21:05 09:20 10:35 15:35 15:45 09:20 15:35 15:45 16:40 21:05 09:20 10:35 15:35 15:45 16:40

Flight
SAT MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 SUN MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520

Dep

Arr

YANGON TO NAYPYITAW NAYPYITAW TO YANGON YANGON TO MANDALAY

HEHO TO YANGON

YANGON TO BANGKOK

BANGKOK TO YANGON

07:55 09:20 09:10 10:35 14:10 15:35 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 07:55 09:20 14:10 15:35 14:20 15:45 15:20 16:40 19:40 21:05 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 10:05 11:15 14:00 15:00 15:40 16:45 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:45 08:50 10:30 14:15 15:45 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45 09:55 12:45 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 12:35 13:15 10:00 14:55 15:50 16:40 14:30 15:00 14:30 15:00 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 16:35 18:10 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25 11:40 13:25 13:50 15:15 13:50 15:15

WED

SUN

THUR

TUE

THUR

YANGON TO SIEM REAP

WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401 08:50 11:25 08:50 11:25 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 09:00 13:00 12:15 16:30 17:15 21:30 11:20 15:50 08:45 13:15 11:20 15:50 08:45 13:15

TUE

FRI

8M 234
MON MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 TUE MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 WED MH 740 AK 850 THU MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 FRI MH 740 8M 502 AK 850 MH 740 AK 850 MH 740 8M 502 AK 850

WED

KUALA LUMPUR TO YANGON

FRI

YANGON TO KUALA LUMPUR

MON 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 TUE 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851

SAT

THUR

WED

SUN

SAT

FRI

YANGON TO MYITKYINA
MON TUE THUR FRI SUN

THUR

SAT

WED FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 THUR FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FRI FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306 FD 3771 8M 335 TG 304 PG 702 8M 331 PG 704 FD 3773 TG 306

WED MH 741 AK 851 THU 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851 MH 741 AK 851 8M 501 MH 741 AK 851

WED 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 THUR 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 FRI 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 FD 3772 PG 703 TG 305 8M 332 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332 8M 336 FD 3770 TG 303 PG 701 PG 703 FD 3772 TG 305 8M 332

SUN

FRI

MYITKYINA TO YANGON
MON TUE THUR FRI SUN MON

SUN

SAT SUN

SAT SUN

12:40 15:00 12:25 12:40 15:00 12:40 08:25 08:40 12:10 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 09:15 12:10 12:10 12:40 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:10 12:25 15:15 15:25 16:10 16:25 15:15 15:25 16:10 16:25 09:15 12:10 12:10 12:25 15:15 16:10 16:25 12:10 12:25 13:45 15:10 15:15 16:25 12:25 MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN

FRI

MON

YANGON TO NYAUNG U

YANGON TO HEHO

YANGON TO SITTWE
6T 611 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 607 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 607 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 6T 611 W9 309 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:00 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 11:15 13:00 10:30 13:00 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 13:00 14:45 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 12:40 14:45 11:55 14:45

YANGON TO GUANGZHOU
WED CZ 3056 THUR 8M 711 SAT CZ 3056 SUN 8M 711 MON CI 7916 WED CI 7916 FRI TUE CI 7916 CA 906

GUANGZHOU TO YANGON
WED CZ 3055 THUR 8M 712 SAT CZ 3055

TUE

SUN 8M 712 MON CI 7915 WED CI 7915 FRI TUE CI 7915 CA 905

SAT

YANGON TO TAIPEI
14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25 14:00 19:25 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 14:15 17:35 13:30 16:40 13:30 16:40 12:00 13:30 12:00 13:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30 19:10 21:30

SAT

TAIPEI TO YANGON

WED

TUE

SAT

THUR

YANGON TO KUNMING
WED CA 906 THUR CA 906 SAT SUN Mon FRI CA 906 CA 906 IC734 IC734

SUN

WED

KUNMING TO YANGON
WED CA 905 THUR CA 905 SAT SUN Mon FRI CA 905 CA 905 IC733 IC728

SITTWE TO YANGON
MON TUE WED THUR FRI SAT SUN 6T 612 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 608 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 608 W9 310 6T 612 W9 310 6T 612 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 13:15 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:55 15:00 12:10 14:20 16:45 14:20 16:45 14:40 16:45 14:20 16:45 14:55 16:45 14:20 16:45 13:35

SUN

FRI

THUR

SUN

MANDALAY TO YANGON
MON SAT

YANGON TO KOLKATA

FRI

KOLKATA TO YANGON

SAT

YANGON TO CHIANG MAI

THUR W9 9607 SUN W9 9607

SINGAPORE TO YANGON
MON MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234 TUE MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 8M 234

YANGON TO SINGAPORE
MON 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517 TUE 8M 231 MI 511 8M 233 MI 517

CHIANG MAI TO YANGON

THUR W9 9608 SUN W9 9608

SUN

TUE

YANGON TO MYEIK
MON TUE 6T 707 AW 301 6T 707 K7 317 K7 317 AW 301 AW 301 6T 707 K7 317 AW 301 07:30 07:00 11:15 12:30 12:30 12:45 07:00 11:15 12:30 12:45 09:30 09:05 13:15 14:00 14:00 14:50 09:05 13:15 14:00 14:50

YANGON TO HANOI
MON VN 956 WED VN 956 FRI SAT VN 956 VN 956

HANOI TO YANGON
MON VN 957 WED VN 957 FRI SAT TUE VN 957 VN 957 VN 943

NYAUNG U TO YANGON
MON

SUN

THUR FRI SAT SUN

Domestic
6T = Air Mandalay W9 = Air Bagan AW = Asian Wings K7 = AIR KBZ YH = Yangon Airways FD & AK = Air Asia TG = Thai Airways

International
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

MYEIK TO YANGON
MON TUE 6T 708 6T 708 K7 318 AW 302 AW 302 K7 318 6T 708 K7 318 AW 302 11:55 15:40 16:40 17:15 11:30 16:40 15:40 16:40 17:15 13:55 17:40 18:10 19:20 13:35 18:10 17:40 18:10 19:20

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 HO CHI MINH

TUE VN 942 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10 14:25 17:10 08:50 12:50 08:50 12:50 THUR VN 942 SUN VN 942 WED 8M 401 SAT 8M 401

WED MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 THUR MI 512 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520 8M 234 FRI MI 512 8M 6231 8M 232 MI 518 MI 520

HO CHI MINH TO YANGON

THUR VN 943 SUN VN 943 WED 8M 402 SAT 8M 402

THUR FRI SAT SUN

YANGON TO PHNOM PENH

PHNOM PENH TO YANGON

YANGON TO GAYA
WED 8M 601 SAT 8M 601 09:00 10:30 09:00 10:30

GAYA TO YANGON
WED 8M 602 SAT 8M 602 11:30 15:00 11:30 15:00

Subject to change without notice

tea Break
February 6 - 12, 2012
the

36
MyanMar tiMes

Top chefs get back to the basics

By Anna Cuenca MADRID Wild herbs, leaves and even giant ants and tarantulas are in demand by the worlds top chefs who are putting a renewed focus on traditional recipes and the use of locally sourced raw ingredients. A number of leading chefs at last months Madrid Fusion, an annual gastronomy fair that wrapped up on January 26, said they preferred to use primary products on their creations and are in some cases even gathering them themselves. Swedish chef Magnus Ek said he gathers leaves, bark and wild herbs each morning from the grounds around his award-winning restaurant, Oaxen Skargardskrog, on the Swedish island of Oaxen, for use in his recipes. Our cuisine is very natural, most of the ingredients we use either grow or live around us. I try to bring as much nature as I can into the kitchen, he said. His restaurant is part of a Scandinavian gastronomic revolution that defends the use of local cooking traditions. The movement is led by Danish chef Rene Redzepi, whose restaurant Noma in Copenhagen is currently regarded by food critics as the worlds best. The raw materials used at Noma are all local either foraged from the sea, the shore or the forest or grown by organic producers. Redzepi refuses to use air transport to subvert the natural rhythm of the seasons. The trend stands in contrast with the molecular gastronomy made popular by Spanish chef Ferran Adria, which uses hi-tech methods to take apart and rebuild foods in surprising ways. Adrias acclaimed elBulli restaurant near Barcelona, which closed last year, was eaten by Amazon Indians a large pantry of flavours little known by the white man. Mendez gave up preparing French cuisine at luxury hotel restaurants in Caracas a decade ago to move to Puerto Ayacucho in the Venezuelan Amazon. From the town he supplies himself with the products that are gathered and grown by three local indigenous communities the Piaroa, t h e Ya n o m a m i a n d t h e Bare. In their cuisine they use jungle insects, palm worms, tarantulas and vachacos, which are giant ants, said Mendez, who is a Bare. He acknowledges that the use of these ingredients can be a cultural shock for a Westerner so he tries to combine these atypical products with classic recipes. The indigenous tribes of the Amazon eat giant tarantulas that are roasted. Mendez, however, transforms them into an encrusted croquette that is served with a spicy guava sauce. Palm worms are transformed into a mousse that is baked, wrapped in a puff pastry made with cassava flour. There are a variety of fruits and animal species in the Amazon that are not very well known, said Mendez, who advocates for the need to develop sustainable cuisine with a smaller environmental impact. We are not going to plunder this pantry, I would say it does not have one Michelin star but 10. Ek is confident that regional cuisines are poised for a huge comeback. People are very proud of the dishes which have been prepared for generations. Of course they want to reform it but also preserve its roots, he said. AFP

Japanese cooks take a break during the Madrid Fusion International Gastronomic Fair in Madrid on January 26. Pic: AFP famous for serving items such as patato foam, parmesan crystal and foie gras noodles frozen with liquid nitrogen. We are not afraid to use chemicals if we are seeking a special effect, but for us chemistry can never be primordial, said Ek as he watched a dozen chefs decked out in white prepare a sauce made out of lichens. Biodiversity offers cooks unlimited possibilities, said Venezuelan chef Nelson Mendez, adding that he had discovered in the foods

YOUR STARS
By Astrologer Aung Myin Kyaw
Aquarius
Use reason to guide your feelings. Encourage discrimination between good and bad in your social communications. Although you are not skilled at improvisation, you are able to deal with those who speak with honeyed tongues. It is always possible, through correct conduct, to lessen the effects of evil, or even transform it into good. Irresponsibility will never lead to pleasure or satisfaction in love.

term. Use periods of change as an opportunity to improve your situation. Know that the course of true love never runs smoothly.

Leo

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Differences of only a few minutes can add up to a big difference on a cumulative basis. Decide what you must do in order to gain time for contingency plans. Taking risks in financial matters will likely lead to success. Its also a good time to seek new educational opportunities and pursue further studies, and love can bloom in the same atmosphere.

July 23 - Aug 22

Lima hot spot offers new take on Peruvian cuisine

By Tom Sietsema FOUR of us pull up to whats been touted as one of the top restaurants in Lima, Peru, only to find a concrete facade that could be mistaken for any of the houses on the block. Should we get out of the cab? Central Restaurante, in the citys fashionable Miraflores district, doesnt even bother putting its name on the cedar door. Thats the deceptively simple first impression that Virgilio Martinez, 34, wants his restaurant to make. A little bit of a surprise, says the Lima-born chef and owner of Central. Introduced three years ago, the 80-seat restaurant brims with unexpected intricacies, from a mini-bottling plant for its water to meals made with ingredients plucked from the roof. Martinezs trajectory from law student in his home town to culinary schools in Ottawa and London to restaurant gigs in Colombia, Spain, Southeast Asia and New York dizzies the resume reader. His path reflects the reality that, until recently, Peru was not where anyone serious about cooking as a profession was likely to train. I wasnt proud as I am now of the countrys food, Martinez says. To dine at Central, which changes its menu six times a year, is to taste-test much of Peru. From the jungle of the Amazon comes the white-fleshed fish known as arapaima and from the mountains in the Andes comes everything from butter to chuno, a popular frozen dehydrated potato. Martinez isnt shy about using things hes fallen in love with on his travels, however; hence the splash of Spanish olive oil here and the whiff of kaffir lime there. Tagliatelle draped with rabbit ragu looks Italian and tastes why, theres orange blossom in the whip of chestnut-infused milk that hovers over the entree like a cloud. Dinner might close with some of the best gulab jamun Ive encountered outside an Indian restaurant. Red and violet flower petals from the upstairs garden help. Plan to ease into the evening with a cocktail in the jewel box off the entrance, and make it a pisco sour, the national drink made with grape brandy and whipped egg whites. But which flavour? Rosemary, ginger, Sichuan pepper and vanilla are among the infusions on hand. Potato chips stained with squid ink and offered in a little copper pot with what tastes like a glam turn on French onion dip are set out for snacking and offer a preview of whats to come in the room next door. A window in the bar frames the open and airy restaurant beyond, which in turn frames the gleaming exhibition kitchen, where a fleet of 18 cooks, including Martinezs girlfriend, Pia Leon, work like actors in a silent movie. The quiet is the result of a glass wall and several feet of stone open air, even! separating patrons from cooks. The divide works because it rarely rains, says Martinez. My quartet is contemplating the show when an appetizer called Lines of Scallops lands before us. The picture starts with coins of bay scallops dappled with a sunny sauce of lime juice and pureed cocona (a citrus billed as the Amazon tomato) and moves upward with thin stripes. One line is whipped scallop roe, another is minced yellow chillies and cocona, a third finds a pink rope of scallop tartare, a fourth band is red with raw tuna. Little blocks of glazed sweet potatoes stand off to the side (spuds never being far away from any plate in Peru). Martinez named his restaurant Central in part because he wanted a word that reinforced the notion of groundedness, which helps explain his all-Peruvian kitchen crew, members of which he thinks infuse the menu with the necessary heart. Cooking was not in the life plan for the teenage Martinez. I wanted to be an architect, like my mother, who was also a painter, says the chef. Mother and son got the chance to work together in creating the two-story Central, within walking distance of the Pacific Ocean, from scratch. Their collaboration embraces a temperature-controlled chocolate cabinet, a secondfloor dining room walled in bottles of wine and a studio lined with books as well as ingredients, including 120 jars of salt from around the world. Cooks gather some of what they need fennel, blackberries, chillies, herbs from the rooftop garden that their boss calls his orchard. No detail escapes the chefs attention. Because he doesnt want the bread to lose heat on its way to your mouth, the rolls, including one made from powdered cacao leaves, are served on warm stone slabs. Each chair in the main dining room is arranged so its occupant can see the kitchen. Mom isnt the only family member involved in Central; Martinezs sister, Malena, is in charge of teas at the restaurant, which cost US$1.5 million to put together, with none of the money coming from outside investors, says the chef. No one tells me what to do, he jokes. Just my girlfriend and my sister. The muses, and Martinez, are on to something hot. The Washington Post

Virgo

Pisces

Flexibility should be your main tactic for growing your social circle wider and wider. It is important to keep yourself accessible and familiar to people at every level of your organisation or company. You should learn to lead up, lead across and lead down, in order to get along with everyone. Rather than trying to increase your influence, take pleasure in performing good deeds for the benefit of others.

Feb 19 - Mar 20

Gaining fluency in different languages is a wonderful way to expand your social communications and enlarge your social circle with people of different cultures. New, exciting experiences could lead you to pursue a different lifestyle, in which you let go of your desires and let come what comes.

Aug 23 - Sept 22

Libra

Aries

Five minutes of thinking can often save an hour of work and clarify the direction you should take. Learning to speak the language of others is a golden practice that nobody notices, not even you. Thoughtful communication provides a multitude of avenues for finding good solutions and uncovering the truth. A relationship based on action and reaction is a sign that you and your partner must learn to pay more attention to one another.

March 21 - April 19

A fearful soul is undeserving of gain, and courage without knowledge has no chance of taking the prize. Dont hide from yourself, and at the same time show compassion for your own situation. Remember to love and value who you are and what you have to offer. Social relationships will enrich your life by providing great opportunities.

Sept 23 - Oct 22

Scorpio

Taurus

Social problems will encroach on your family affairs, resulting in feelings of sorrow and doubt, but good decisions on your part will help set things right once again. Deconstruct your problems and put them back together again to find success. Cultivate a life filled with compassion, and passion will automatically follow. Focussing your time chasing your one big desire, to the detriment of others around you, might lead to despair in your love life.

April 20 - May 20

Enjoy the feeling of being unburdened and refreshed like a child again. Dont be afraid to take risks in your life based on your own decisions. Old friends and partners will provide strength as you strive to fulfil your desires. Learn to use the diplomatic skills of those around you to your own advantage. Remain conscious to the world to stay truly alive, but dont take any new steps to ignite emotional sparks.

Oct 23 - Nov 21

Sagittarius

Gemini

Mindlessly grinding away without focus will lead you nowhere. You must make a conscious effort to train your mind to see the positive aspects in all situations. Good decision-making can improve your status and result in a big promotion. Pay more attention and favour to your old friends and partners. Your emotions will be shaken in a surprising way that could help heal a suffering heart.

May 21 - June 20

Your upward progress means that you will face ever-increasing difficulties. Welcome the challenge, but understand that you cannot borrow faith or courage from others they must come from within. Opportunities will come your way as if by magic, as long as you have faith in your ability to take advantage of them. Gird yourself to overcome all obstacles from the beginning, and you will be richly rewarded.

Nov 22 - Dec 21

Capricorn

Cancer

Caring for the mind is very important. Adjust your schedule so that you tackle difficult and frustrating tasks when your morale and energy levels are high. Take charge and control of management matters, with the aim of maintaining balance in the long

June 22 - July 22

Groping in the dark is sometimes a necessary part of the journey. Being true to yourself is an important step in the development of freedom of thought. Overcome ego attachments that constantly compel you to seek wealth and power. Always communicate with those in your social circle in a respectable manner, and in this way maintain good mental balance. To find true love, cultivate your connection to your own heart. 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

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83117 , Tr. Ahme B.Sc( IC ) Ph: 730 592 65,, Sayar Min Aung (217425) (* Korean English teacher for young learners) SAYA JAMES Abrahams extensive training in different subjects available for Grade 8, 9, 10 & 11 (English and Burmese will be used as the medium of teach-ing); home tutoring for primary 1,2,3,4,5 students (only English will be used as the medium of teaching) from int'l school esp. TOTAL & Horizon; The first two periods will be free and to be used to assess the IQ & diligence of the student. Ph: 242216, 09-515-0335 email: jimbrown88@ gmail.com SAT (Critical Reading, Literature Subject Test), TOEFL (iBT, pBT) test book, IELTS, 4 skills Proficiency course, teach by up-to-date edition book by Teacher Daw Nila Regular Section & Home Tuition Available Ph: 09-5128799, 640553.

Language
TEACHER Daw Khin Thawda Aung, English Grammar & Speaking in 60 hrs. IELTS, TOEFL, GCE & SAT in 120 hrs. Tel: 556571, 09-5089368. MYANMAR LANGUAGE Guide (For Embassy family and others) When you stay in Myanmar, do You want to ask to your children to learn Myanmar language? Call: 09-514-6505, 09730-75265. 01-501846 Ext:191(Christine) LEARN ENGLISH! In a quiet atmosphere and fun with an experienced teacher Certified in TEFL patient, friendly, organized Enjoys English language: daily conversations, business issues, preparation for examinations. Develop your skills: reading, writing, listening comprehension,conversation, grammar and vocabulary. Mode of work: textbooks, novels, magazines, newspapers, audio, video, etc. To all levels and ages individual classes or groups reviews of leveling! Calls Teacher Min Thant Mobile: 09-73173175. Email: khinmin@gmail. com LANGUAGE Proficiency(A) Effective & Scientific way, (B) Intensive Class, (C) Interpreter- part time/ Full time (Under mentioned languages), (D) Hindi/ Myanmar/ 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 Street, 5th Flr (R), Botahtaung. LANCASTER Education Centre Offirs Course on IELTS Preparation, IELTS Exam Practice, IELTS Speaking, Read-ing + Vocabulary and IELTS Academic Writing General English & Spoken English, IGCSE (English, Maths), TOEFL, Workplace Communication Skills & Weekend Classes for Young Learners (Starters, Movers, Flyers, KET, PET and FCE), Address: 26 (A), 3rd flr, Nawaday Rd, Dagon Tsp, Ph: 374664, 09-550-4342. HOME TUTION japanese language basic course, inter course kanji course,nattest jpn going course 09-7303-2296. FOR FOREIGNERS interested in learning Myanmar speaking effectively and easily in a short period with Myanmar English teacher at your home. Save your time & money. Contact : 09 5179125. 100,000 kyats per month INNOVIA (Your Language Solutions) English Speaking (General/ Office/ Busi-ness/ Travel) IELTS (Preparation/ Foundat-ion) IGCSE

Expert Service
AIRCON & Electrical Engineering Services (Installation,Repairing & Servicing) August Engineering Service. Tel; 09-73 110 321 / 01-586509 Email; aes. august@ googlemail. com C.L.T Ladies Fashion Tailoring (Use Centimeter Unit) Bldg. No. 8, Rm No. 1 Yankin Lane Thwe 5, East Yankin, Ph: 09-73025931. OUTSCOURCING - We are a Engineering and Trading firm which is privately owned and lead by senior citizen that engineer with diversified experience of more than 30 years in related industry. We are outscourcing the high-tech industrial equip-ments and products (Alcohol Meters, MOBREY Boiler Water Level Control, Draeger Water Vapour Tube, SWISS LOXX Chem-Bio Escape Mask, KROHNE Flow meter, DIABON Bursting Disc, Air-driven Double Diaphragm Pump, etc.,), Medical equip-ments (DREGER Products) and other products & equipments which especially you required from the World-wide countries. And develop and consult the various types of Turnkey Projects (BUSE CO2 Plant, Drinking Water Plant, Cement Plant, Bio-Fuel/Diesel Plant, Pharmaceutical Plant, Vinegar Plant, R.O Seal & Crown Cork Plant, Effluent Treatment Plant, etc.,) . Add: 141(B), 1st Flr, Bayintnaung Rd, Hlaing. Tel/ Fax: 01-513235 Mobile: 09-73075047 AUSTRALIAN VISA Specialists : Student visas, Guardian visas, Tourist visas. EduLink Australia : 01-500-464, 09-73162586. IF YOURE an expatriate needing to find an apartment or house in Yangon, Min Thu can help. He has experience and is very reliable. Call Min Thu on 09731-38659 or email thecleverson@ gmail. com TRANSLATION Service : Myanmar To English contact : high.guide@ gmail.com

(English/ Math / Physics) In Class (or) Home Delivery services. Master of Ceremony/ Announcer/ Presenter for hire Services (Myanmar/ English). Professional Translator/ Interpreter services (Myanmar/ English) . Ph : 09-43197761, 01-505099 ext144 Inya View Condo, 4D, Pyay Rd, Kamaryut BUSINESS ENGLISH : Classes of Saya Than (Yangon University) (LL.M., Ex. G.M.) will commence in January 2012 in line with UK syllabus. Limited 10 trainees per section. Essentials of business communication: introducing, greetings, telephoning, meetings, negotiating, presentation, business letters, report writing, business travel, etc. 4 skills with video & audio teaching aids in fully air con classroom. (special arrangement for companies in group study) Ph: (01) 535697 FOREIGNERS who want to study the Burmese Language. Home visit will available now. Contact me: Moe Pwint 537803 rainymoe85 @ gmail.com HAPPY LEARNING Japanese Language, we have basic level course, advance level course, we'll consult you who go to Japan to study, without having any profit, start in december. Contact. 130 (3A) Camp Bell Rd, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel : 555259, 430230.

contact Norwegian Refugee Council head office on 501 808. 1.CDMA 800 Mhz (Sim Card + Handset) 2. Razor Headphone 3.Apple Super Drive ph: 09-739-03193. APPLE Super Drive + Apple Magic mouse [ 110000 ] Acer LED monitor + graphic card (1G) [100000] Galaxy tab 7' (used) - 310000 HTC sensation XE (new) - 420000 Razor Headphone90000 ph: 09-739-03193. CAR Sunny Supersaloon 93 mdl W/RTA 85000kM AUTOTRANSMISSION 9A/---- 2 Nissan Bluebird SSS Auto Gear White Color Tha/---- call me 09502-2776

PROPERTY
HousingforRent
SUPERB location for TRUCKS parking in downtown area. 5 minutes drive from Hle Dan Junction. 15 minutes drive to Hlaing Thar Yar, airport. Dhama Thukha Kyaung Rd, Hlaing. 0.8 acres compound: (a) land only (b) 2 x 3-phase industrial power meter (c) 1 x phone landline pls contact 09 5012920 SOUTH OKKALAPA: 10 minutes drive from Sedona Hotel, Mya Thida Housing , Banglow , 2 story building, Fully furnish-ed, Fullyfurniture, lake view, 2 car garages and servant quarter. To let to foreigners only. ph: 512197 between 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays.

Housing for Sale

BAHAN, 40 x 60 ft plot at Kaba Aye, Two storey house include. Selling price - 2300 lakhs (negotiable). Tel: 663-326, 09-731-97531, 09-431-26571, 09-43141971. THINGINGYUN , Thumingalar Housing Comples, Land (84ft x 40ft) - Lakhs 3800 .Contact to : 095000811 AHLONE, Sin Minn Housing, Kannar Rd, 15 x 55, 2 Flr, 2 Bed Rooms, Extn Phone, Power Meter & Motor, already decorated with Parquet, 2 minutes work to bus-stop (Sin Min Market Bus Stop) & bazaar, Sales Price: 320 Lakhs, Pls contact owner : 226855/226822 (extn: 134) MANDALAY : 26(B) Road, between (86/87) Aungmyaytharsan Tsp. (22 ft X 75 ft ) Ph: 09-5048704, 02-21915

Rent / Sale Food

DE CHEF Corner Bakery Since- 1999, Rm No.03, Ground Flr. Block C, Pearl Condo, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 554253. 4 MB, 4SB, Ph, A/C, Good Neighborhood, 15 Lakhs, Foreigners welcome. Call - 01-569448, 09-73135900 BAHAN : New University Avenue Lane, Condo, 7F, 1500 sqft , Fully Furnished, Fully furniture, 3 A/C, 1 MBR, 2 SBR ,1PH, 6 Lakhs , (Suitable to Rent for Foreigner),Call-01569448, 09-73036937 BAHAN. (for Foreigner) Pearl Condo Tower D, 6 floor Fully Furnished about 1780 Sq Ft, 3BR. US$1800/mt 1 yr Contract. Call: 09-501-8701. BAHAN. Pearl Condo Tower E, 4th floor. Fully Furnished (including kitchen ware) Inclusive of electricity, water, wireless internet, satellite TV channels. about 1780sq ft, 3BR. US$3000/mt (nego) Payable Monthly Call: 095200654 BAHAN, Kanbawza RD, Golden Valley, Bahan,Yangon. 30x30 ft, 2 new stories building with 30 x110 ft land. Backyard lawn & greenery. Very quiet place.3 bed room. Well furnished. Best electricity in town. YCDC water. US$ 1500/mt.Can provide phone/internet depend on price. Ph: 09-501-0816. BAHAN , 0.25' acres, 2 Story Building, 5 MBR, Garden,2 Entrance gate Semi Funished, Phone, Generactor, Good Electricity Sutiable for office, US$ 3600 per month (Nego:)U Wisara Rd, 40x73' 2 1/2 Story Building, 3 MBR, new house, Fully aircon, Phone, US$ 2500 per month (Nego:) Inya Rd, 0.5acce Nice Colony style building, Big garden, 3MBR US$ 3500 per month (Nego:) Ph: 09-73206789 MAYANGONE, (4M) May Kha (Ady) Rd, 2 storey building situated on the Inya Lake bank, 3 large bedrooms with bathrooms attached, spacious living - dining room, spacious family room, spacious kitchen, garden with beautiful landscape with TAMWAE : Lovely Banglow, 2 Story, 1 MB, 2SB, 50x100' Yard, Fully Furnished, 1Ph, 9 Lakhs, Foreigners welcome. Call - 01-569448, 09731-35900

For Sale
(1) PLATINUM PRO tread mill, almost new, K120,000. (2) New Fibre glass bath tub, economy size, 48"x30" x 16", ideal for bath-rooms with limited space, 3 nos. available, K 1.45 lakhs each. (3) Used foam rubber double mattress, 78"x 66"x 6" K.30,000. (4) Used Yamaha Clavinova electronic piano - K 800,000. Ph: 09-500-3248. Address: 114 Kayebin Rd, Dagon Tsp., near Childrens hospital. HR Software Package: Price 200,000. Modules: Employee Management, Time Attendance, Payroll. (Available: Finger Print/ Card). Contact Ph:09-5042775 POS Software Package: Price 200,000. Modules: Inventory Control, Purchase, Sale, Account Payable. (Available :Barcode Priter/ Scanner). Contact Ph:09-504-2775 IPHONE 3GS - 16G White very very good All accessories with covers iOS 5.0.1 + jailbreak, unlock 250,000 ks. ph: 09-43184138 CHINA Generator (STC20KW, 3 Phase) 1-set (6-lakh) Ph: 541351, 552729 HD GAME, app (install). iPhone, iPod 6000ks, iPad 8000ks, iTunes account open (free game, app download) iOS 5 full untethered jailbreak (power off) available. Ph :09-5147480 TWO fibre-glass bodied speedboats for sale. 17 feet long by 5.5 feet wide, formerly used by NGO in the Ayeyarwady Delta. Engines not included for sale and not available. Will be released to best offer. For more information please

Public Notice
FREE English Conversation Opportunity. You can participate in individual conversation with native English speakers - February 20 March 9, 2012. Call MBJ Office ph. No # 537 307. Deadline for registration is February 10th 2012 . GARAGE SALES 9 :00am - 5:00 pm (10.2.2012 to 12.2.2012) 43, Inya Myaing , Shwe Taungyar Qtr I, Bahan Tsp. Ph: 511195, 0973224664.

Want to hire
VILLA OR CONDO (for foreigner) Bahan, Mayankone, Hlaing, Kamayut, Thingankyun, Yankin. RC, MB, SB, Water-Well & YCDC, Good Electricity, A/C, Ph, Attached to Garden, Furnished, Rent Rate $600 ~ $1000. Pls contact by house owner to Ms. Hnin Si within office hours 9AM to 5PM- 556692, 540995 HOUSE OR CONDO, Bahan, Mayankone, Hlaing, Kamayut, Yankin ,1RC, MB 1 or 2, WaterWell & YCDC, Compound 50x50, Furnished, Pls contact by house owner to Ms. Hnin Si Phyu within office hours 9AM to 5PM- 556407, 540995, 4412580 NEAR YUzANA PLAzA, warehouse to hire. Ph: 546309.

Training
GUITAR GUIDE To Home Ph-09 73194925 UNITED KARATE Aikido Combat Dojo No. 267, 5th Flr Pyay Rd (front of Dagon Center II) Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tel: 09-507-7634, 09567-0442 Monday, Wednesday, 18:00 to 20:00 - Sports Karate Friday, 18:00 to 20:00 Combat Karate (Sayargyi U Thaung Din Style) Member fees - 15,000 Kyats Registrat-ion Monthly - 10,000 Kyats. United Club old members: FOC Registration Monthly 50% off - Moe Lwin. SMART Fitness Center : Invite to all of our customer, Grantee for over weight men & women (over 200 lb), to get always smart & healthy body, Available to discuss with skillful training teacher, Teach in systematically. Ph: 09730-17729. 142, 47th St, 1st Flr, Botataung.

Want To Hire
TO HIRE Suitable building to run an office (or) to take relax two bed rooms with bathroom attached About 7milesfromPatheinbridge road side of Pathein Ngwe Saung run way Contact: 095201910/01-534580

Travel
PACKAGE Tour to USA & Europe for April 2012 are available at United Treasure Travel (UT) with attractive offer. For booking & inquiry, just call to 09-731-77936, 09-516-5219, 558866.

Employment
UN Positions
THE United Nations Office on Drugs & Crime (UNODC) is seeking for Myanmar nationals: Marketing Specialist (SC-6) MMRJ94/J95 Projects - 1 Post. Duty Station: Taunggyi/ Hopone, Southern Shan State : University degree in Business Administration, marketing or related field. Have a minimum 5 years experience in market-ing, with a focus on agriculture products preferred. Demonstrated experience in all aspects of developing & implementing marketing strategies. Proven ability in working with multidisciplinary and multicultural teams. Proven ability to write technical reports, reviews & programme/ project documents. Proficiency in MS Office & project management software. Fluency in spoken and written English. Knowledge of a local language of the region would be an asset. Application must include a cover letter, current CV, copies of relevant academic qualification certifi-cates, & a recent passport sized photograph. Application should be address to UNODC, 11A, Maylikha Rd, Ward-7, Mayangone , Yangon, Myanmar. (or) C/O UNDP, POBox (650), Yangon, Myanmar. Closing Date: 10 February 2012. fields with five years livelihood/food security project management experience with INGOs/ international agencies. Professional experience in project cycle management including participatory planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of projects. Experience in integration of ageing/cross-cutting issues with livelihood/ food security projects. Strategic, transparent, and flexible in thinking and working process. Experience in budget planning and financial management. Strong familiarity with networking with government, and other national and international agencies. Solid experience in managing staff, and working with expatriates. Proven track record of quality performance in remote locations and high pressure environments. Excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and Myanmar. Experience in facilitating training workshops & coaching. High degree of initiative and problem solving skills. Basic computer skill essential. Advanced written and spoken English & Myanmar language skills. Job Title: Monitoring and Evaluation Officer (1 post) Location: Yangon with regular field visits to the project locations. Qualifications : University degree, 3 years experience in M & E. Strong familiarity with monitoring and evaluation in livelihood/ food security project. Experience in the design of simple M&E tools with project staff and community leaders. Experience in training and mentoring staff and community leaders, facilitating development of simple -M&E tools by staff and community leaders to collect qualitative and quantitative informat-ion on project progress. Demonstrated English language proficiency (reading, writing, speaking), and competency in database establishment & management. Working experience with communities in rural Myanmar an advantage. Job Title: Health Coordinator (1 post) Location: Yangon with regular field visits to the project locations. Qualifications and competencies : Myanmar national with university degree in Medicine, preferably with advance studies in Public and / or community health, Minimum three years experience in general practice/health educator with an INGO, LNGO, UN agency is an advantage, Good experience in training & good facilitation skill. High level of interpersonal, written, oral communication and presentation skills . Computer literate and good report writing skills. Ability to work effectively in a team with from various cultures & professional back-grounds, Fluent in Myanmar, working knowledge of English an advantage. flexibility and ability to change work according to the objectives. Willingly to work at non-Yangon area and make frequent travel to Yangon. Job Title: Project FinanceAssistant (1 post) Location: Yangon with frequent travel. Qualifications and competencies. CPA/ACCA. At least 5 years experience in similar position with int'l agencies/ UN. Experience in producing budgets, financial monitoring and donor reports. Solid experience in developing internal finance control systems. Experience in building staff capacity in accounting, controls, budgeting and project financial management. Experience in working as part of multidisciplinary teams. Excellent communication & negotiation skills. Advance computer skills particularly in Excel. Good command of spoken and written English. Ability to deliver under pressure and willingness to travel in the field. Job Title: Field Facilitators / Community Development Workers (6 Posts) (1 post each in Yangon, Pathein, Kyailat, Pyin Oo Lwin and Pathein Gyi) Location: To be based in the project townships with regular visit to project villages Qualifications and competencies : Minimum BEHS level of education. Experience in community facilitation/ community organising using participatory PLA methods. A sincere desire to help small scale farmers, livestock farmers and landless families. At least 3 years community mobilization/facilitation work with INGO at the community level or equivalent experience is helpful. Strong familiarity with participatory development approaches. Good problem solving & organizational skills. Understanding of village level problems. Knowledge about agriculture, fisheries, livestock/small scale income generation activities helpful. Interested & qualified candidates are requested to send a Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae to the Human Resources Unit of HelpAge International Myanmar Country Office, No 10 Kanbawza Avenue, Shwe-taun-gya Ward No. 1, Bahan Township, Yangon OR by email to hr.helpagemyanmar@ gmail. com no later than 5 p.m., Monday, 13 February 2012. Candidates interested in positions based in Yangon, Pathein, Kyailat, Pyin Oo Lwin and Pathein Gyi are requested to clearly indicate their preferred job locations. Candidates interested in receiving full JD, please contact HelpAge International Myanmar Country Office OR send your request to hr. helpagemyanmar@ gmail. com Only shortlisted candidates will be notified for interview. 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 / management expe-rience in HIV / AIDS & STIs programmes; Excellent knowledge of English & Myanmar. (2) Laboratory Technician in Mong Lar & Kyaing Tong, Eastern Shan State : Qualified laboratory technician with previous work experience 2 years in public health, prefer-ably in HiV / AIDS & STIs clinics; Previous experience with a humanitarian organi-zation (INGOs) in the region; Computer literate in MS Office Package. Myanmar, English, Shan(or) local languages spoken in project sites. Pls submit application incl. CV, photo, copy of educational certificates, references to the Malteser Int'l Office; #14/15 (6F), Pyi Taw Aye Yeik Thar St, Yankin, Yangon Email: hr.co. malteser@ gmail. com) Closing date : 13rd February, 2012 SOLIDARITES Int'l (SI) is seeking (1) Logistician in Bhamo, Kachin State (with regular field trips). Person specifications: Degree/ Diploma in Logistics & Supply Chain Management from a recognized college/ university preferred. Relevant academic education or proven experience in logistics sector with INGO or UN may be acceptable in absence of Logistics diploma. 3 years experience in commodities programming & logistics management (for who specially based in Kachin State or speaks Kachin Language will be a plus). Good oral & written English commu-nication skills(2) Administrative Super-visor : Academic background in Management, finance or accounting studies. Humanitarian values & strong motivation to work with int'l Humanitarian Organi-zation. Fluent spoken & written English & Myanmar. Good writing & communication skills. Rigor, reactive, trustful, autonomous and clam under pressure. Computer knowledge: MS Windows XP/7, MS office. Duty station will be Bamaw & the position will require regular filed trips to the project areas.Pls submit application (CV, cover letter, references to the attention of: For Bhamo, Kachin State: Su Su Mon, Administrative Manager at: Solidarties Int'l office, Bhamo (Hospital Rd, Kachin Su Ward, Near Chinese Language School, Bhamo or email to sol.bog.adm. assist@ gmail.com. For Country office, Win Htay, Deputy Logistics Coordinator/ Acting Logistics Coordinator: Solidarites Int'l, Yangon (1b Saw Maha Lane, Bogyoke Pyatike, Bahan) Tel: 553845 Or Email to: ygn. dpt. logco@solidartiesinternational.org, hr. solidarites.mm@gmail. com. (Pls send only on email and put in copy all the email addresses Listed). Closing date : 15th February 2012. Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is seeking (1) Programme Assistant 1 post: University Graduate, Fluent in English, Age under 45, Good relationship with Myanmar governmental offices, More than 5 years experience, Good computer skills. (2) Administrative Assistant 1 post: University Graduate, Fluent in both Japanese and English, Age under 45, More than 5 years experience, Good computer skills. Duration of Assignment: From the first week of March 2012 (negotiable). yearly renewal upon satisfactory performance. Pls send the applications with updated C.V, educational credentials and references to JICA Myanmar Office, Room 701, 7th Floor, Sakura Tower, No. 339, Bokyoke Aung San Road, Kyauktada. 17 February 2012. & full details attached with a recent passportsized photograph by (15-02-2012). Dusit Inya Lake Hotel (Compound). 37, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone. Ph: 652536, 652544, thithi. ga@ gmail.com A MANDARIN Teacher position is open for the 2012-2013 school year at the International School Yangon (ISY). Experiencedcandidates should send their CV with references to splisinski@isyedu. org. MAID required for family in Bahan Tsp. Cleaning, laundry, shopping and childcare duties. Daily work(not live-in). Experience with babies & children preferred. Ability to speak basic English required. Only short listed candidates will be notified for interview. Pls submit C.V with a recent photo to Bldg A4-A5, Anawrahtar Housing Complex, Pyay Rd, Yangon. Tel: 527516, 09-493-25309 by 17th Feb 2012. MYANMAR WOMEN Entrepreneurs Association (MWEA) is seeking (1) Project Manager - 1 post (Yangon) University Degree /Master Degree in political science business management with related field, 3 years of relevant experience in the area of project management of gender related projects. (2) Project Officer - 1 post (Yangon) University Degree in management , social science gender related field, 3 years of related experience in the area of integrated women development project such as raising awareness and rights and trainings. (3) Project Assistant - 1 post (Yangon) : University Degree in social science , gender or related field, 2 years of related experience in the area of women development project. Application must include a cover letter, current CV, copies of relevant academic qualification certificate and a recent passport sized photograph to MWEA, 288/290, MWEA Tower, Shweda-gon Pagoda Rd, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Closing Date: 29 February 2012 BLUE BIRD Hotel (Bagan) is seeking : Hotel Manager - M/F, Engineering Staff - M/F, Engineering Asst: M/F, Sous Chef - M/F, Reservation Officer - F, Accountant - F, Work Place is in Bagan. Pls contact us with your CV to : Rm 907,FMI Centre, Pabedan Tsp . Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Tel : 248060, 09-50-52595. MYANMAR WONDERS Travel Ltd (Yangon) is seeking: Tour Operation Officer - M/F, Production Officer M/F. Pls Contact us with your CV to: Rm 907, FMI Centre, Pabedan. Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Tel : 248060, 09-5052595. SUMMIT PARKVIEW Hotel is seeking (1). Finance Manager - M/F (1) Post: B-Com / CPA / B.Act / DA / LCCI Level 3, 5 years experience in Financial Management field, Good leadership skills & communication skills. Computer literate. (2). F&B Manager - M 1 Post : Graduate in any discipline, 5 years experience in B Management. Proficiency in English. Good Communication skills & leadership skills. Computer literate. (3). Graphic Designer M/F 1 Post : Graduate in any discipline, 2 years experience. Computer literate experience in (Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator Software) is more preferable. Proficiency in English. Good Communication skills (4).Receptionist M/F 2 Post : Age under 25, Must have good personality, Proficiency in English. Good communication skills. Computer literate. (5). Porter / Driver - M 1 Post : Must have good personality, 1 year in related field is more preferable, Good communication skills, Good ability to speak in English. 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 15 February, 2012. SPINE ARCHITECTS : A Local Architectural Firm seeks : Architect (all levels) Diploma & Work Experience a Plus. All must know AutoCad well. 3-D modeling & Rendering skills a plus. Senior Project Manager 5 years + experience in design & construction, review & supervision of working drawings, site management,detailing ability. Autocad proficiency a plus but not essential. Civil/ Structural Engineer - 3 years + experience in structural design & construction. ETABS and Autocad proficiency required. M&E Engineer : 3 years experience in design/ installation: Electrical loading calculations & distribution Generator, voltage regulation, switch systems. Air con calculations & system planning. Sanitary & piping systems. Low voltage systems (telephone networking) Lighting Autocad familiarity will be helpful. Foreign work experience & know-ledge of int'l code preferred. Pls send CV with recent photo indicating education, work experience & salary requirements to 15/A, West Parami Rd, Mayangone . (Across RC-2). Ph: 660 996 / 667 770. (1) ADMIN Executive - F 1 Post : Japanese language proficiency Test Result N1 or N2, Basic computer skill. Age under 28, Travel Agent, Good working location & comfortable office. (2) Driver (for Foreign Company)- More than 5 years experience. Fluent in English. Age 30-40. Safety driving skill. Downtown, Bahan, Yankin Residents only. Branding Officer -M/F : Hospital Nurse or Experienced Sales Person (Female). Favourable condition: Marketing experience of Pharmaceutical (medicine), medical equipment & basic skill of English conversat-ion. Age under 28. Qualified candidates may submit CV with application letter, passport size color photo (within 3 months taken), copies of NRC cards, working experience, other relevant certificate and contact phone to Myanmar Yutani Co., Ltd. F13-15, Aung San Stadium (North Wing), Mingalar Taung Nyunt. Ph: 393051, 394824. TRAVEL MANAGER -M/F : Must have at least 5 years working experience in a travelrelated company Must have knowledge of MS Word & Excel and be able to speak English. Travel Assistant - M/F: Must have at least 3 years experiencein a travel-related company Must have knowledge of MS Word & Excel and be able to speak English. Pls call 383395 to arrange for an interview.

Local Position
FC (Dessert Bar & Bistro) Opening soon high class European food and dessert restaurant is urgently seeking (1) Head Chef (For Casual dining Restaurant) 1 Post : Expert in Italian/ modern European cuisines. 5 years experience. Fine dining & oversea working experience in preferred. Able to guide & train apprentice. Good salary according to skill level & experience. Able to work under pressure. University level or Degree holder. Must be creative. (2) Asst: Chef - 2 Posts : Knowledge in Italian/ modern European cuisines. 3 years experience. Able to work under pressure. (3) Bakery Chef - 5 years experience. Passion for the culinary arts. Hardworking, highly motivated selfstarters. Able to guide and train apprentice. Good salary according to skill level and experience. Min University level or Degree holder is required. (4) Waiter/ Waitress- M/F 20 Posts: 1 years experience. Able to speak English & working late night. Must have very good personality, sweet and charming. High school graduate. Detail CV with qualification certificate, recent 2 photos, expected salary & other necessary documentation & contact ph to 135, Inya Rd (ICE CREAM BAR) during 10am to 5pm daily except Sunday before 15/Jan/2012. Ph: 511141. BEST Livestock Limited is seeking: (1) Laboratory Super-visor - M/F 1 Post Ywarthargyi - Age 30 ~ 40. B.Sc (Chemistry), I.C Master Degree. 3 years experience. Good spoken & written English. Good knowledge how to make analyzing for moisture, proactine, detail and resultoriented, must possesstrong communication & analytical skills. (2) Electrician - M 1 Post :Ywarthargyi - Age 25 ~ 35. A.G.T.I Electrical Power (or) T.H.S E.P. 3 years experience. Well experienced on industrial electrical power experienced on electronic equipment and safety procedure perferable. Willing to learn more on electrical concern. Pls send application with copy of labour registration card

INGO Position
HelpAge International has received funding from HelpAge Korea/ KOICA for a 3-year project entitled Building Community Organisations to Reduce Poverty and Vulnerability Amongst Older People and their Families in Myanmra to be implemented in 23 new villages and 40 existing villages in Kyaiklat, Pathein, Kangyidauk townships and Shwe Thaung Yan subtownship in Ayeyawady Region, Pathein Gyi and Pyin Oo Lwin Townships in Mandalay Region and Yangon Region. We are seeking qualified and experience Myanmar nationals for the following positions: Job Title: National Project Manager (1 Post) Location: Yangon with frequent travel (minimum 50%) to the project locations Qualifications/ compe-tencies. Masters degree preferably in social work, community development or related

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 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: hankuk@ kore mby.net.mm 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) 502016-8, Mandalay- Tel: 02-60933. Nay Pyi TawTel: 067-420778, E-mail freshaircon@gkmyanmar. com.mm. 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

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.

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

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.

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

The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residences 372, Bogyoke Aung San Rd, Pabedan Tsp. tel: 951-256355 (25 lines). fax: 951-256360. email: gmer@ mptmail.net.mm, www.grandmeeyahta.com

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

40
February 6 - 12, 2012
BEAUTY & MASSAGE
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

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MyanMar tiMes

COLD STORAGE

ENTERTAINMENT

GAS COOKER & COOKER HOODS

A Little Dayspa No. 475 C, Pyi Road, (Between Sweety Home & Shwe Kant Kaw Silk) Kamayut, Yangon. Tel: 09-431-28831.

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, Bld(A), Rm (G-02), Pyay Rd, Kamayut Tsp, Yangon. Ph: 52717, 09 51 70528

PHIH-Specialist Clinic FMI Centre (4th Floor) #380, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Tsp. tel: 243 010, 243 012, 243 013

CAFS

Established 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

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.

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.

DUTY FREE
La Brasserie (International) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel : 250388.

GENERATORS

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

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

FITNESS CENTRE
Duty Free Airport Shopping Yangon International Airport Arrival / Departure. tel: 662676 (Airport). office: 90B/1, Inya Road, Kamayut Township. tel: 512534, 500143-5. 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. 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 Piyavate Hospital (Bangkok) Myanmar Represent ative (Head office) Miba Gon Yee Business Group, No.506, 5th-fl, Yuzana Twin Tower, (No.8, Pangyan Tower) Cor of Dhama Zedi & Bargayar Rd, SCHG Tsp. Tel: 500600, 500800, 500900. Fax: 539799. hotline: +9595018777. piyavate@ myanmar.com.mm www.piyavate.com
Shimmering Gold Services Co., Ltd.
VICTORY FOR LIFE

Qi Foot Spa At Inya Lake Hotel, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel: +951-662866, 662857 Ext: 1725

SR 22/1, Next to the Pearl Shopping Centre, Kaba Aye Pagoda Road, Bahan Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. tel: 544 297, 549 527, 700 777 , fax: 558 044. email: eros@ mptmail.net.mm. www.erosspa.com

INYA1 Resturant & Bar No.(1), Inya Road, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 01-527506 email: inyaone@gmail.com www.inya1.com Strand Caf 92, Strand Rd, Yangon. Tel: 243377. fax: 243393, sales@thestrand.com.mm. www.ghmhotels.com Traders Caf Traders Hotel, Yangon. #223, Sule Pagoda Rd. Tel: 242828 ext: 6519

EDUCATION CENTRE
MHR Business & Management Institute 905, 9th floor, Modern Iron Market(Thanzay Condo) Lanmadaw St. tel: 707822. NELC (Nelson English Language Centre Young Learner & Adults No 53, Dhamayon Street, Myaynigone, Sanchaung Tsp. tel: 534287 NLEC 82 Anawrahta Rd, Corner of 39 St, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 250225. RV! Centre Yangon Tel: 535433, 541886, 242410, 250388 Ext: 333. email: ask@rvcenre.com.sg The British Council 92, Strand Rd, Kyauktada Tsp. tel: 254658.

HOME FURNISHING

Zen Wellness Care No.62 (A), Room-3, Yaw Min Gyi Street, Dagon Tsp, Yangon. Tel: +951-252939.

Lemon Day Spa No. 96 F, Inya Road, Kamaryut Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 514848, 09-732-08476. E.mail: lemondayspa.2011 @gmail.com Saw Peter Foot Reflexology Oil Massage, Body Massage, Foot Massage. Any time you want at your place. Tel : 09-518-8047.

BATTERY

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

22, Pyay Rd, 9 mile, Mayangone Tsp. tel: 660769, 664363. Home Plus Trading Co., Ltd. No. 457, Aung San Stadium, Mingalartungnyunt Tsp. tel: 394888. Fax: 393008.

BANGKOK, THAILAND

CAR DEALER
ISO 9001:2008 (QMS)

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.

HEALTH SERVICES

MTG Motors Trading Co.,Ltd No.H, Hlaing Yadanar Housing, Yangon-Insein Road, Hlaing Tsp. tel: 503590, 514165

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

FLORAL SERVICES

CHOCOLATE

ELECTRICAL

Inya Day Spa

BOOK STORES

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

Room - 4021, 3rd Floor, Taw Win Centre. Ph: 8600111 (Ext:4021), 09-803-2581.

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

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

Established 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.

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

MARINE COMMUNICATION & NAVIGATION

Agent Office, 5th Floor, Junction Centre (Maw Tin), Lanmadaw Township, Yangon. Myanmar. Ph: 09-731-56770, 09-5117584, Fax: 01-516313, myanmarmeditour@gmail. com Bumrungrad Intl Rm 238, Summit Parkview Hotel, Dagon Tsp. tel: 723999, 211888. Ext: 8238.

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.

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

MARKET RESEARCH

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.

No. 365/367, Bo Aung Kyaw st (Upper), IHBC, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 392484 , 389824, 09803-0166. Fax: 392590. Email: radiant.aesthetics @gmail.com. Web: www. kembanganradiant.com

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

Media & Advertising

FOAM SPRAY INSULATION

Acupuncture, Medicine Massage, Foot Spa Add:No,27(A),Ywa Ma Kyaung Street, Hlaing Township, Yangon. Tel: 01-511122, 526765.

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 Medical centre No. 330, Yangon International 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

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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Myanmar. Tel: 95-1-535783, 527705, 501429. Fax: 95-1-527705. Email: salesikon@myanmar.com.mm 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, Ph: 545871~73 Super 1 (Shwe Bonthar) 397, Bogyoke Aung San St, Pabedan. Ph: 250268~29 Victoria Shwe Pone Nyet Yeik Mon, Bayint Naung Rd, Kamaryut Tsp. tel : 515136. No.35(b), Tatkatho Yeik Mon Housing, New University Avenue, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 951-549451, 557219, 540730. www.yangon-academy.org

MyanMar tiMes

PLEASURE CRUISES
Black Canyon Coffee & International Thai Cuisine 330, Ahlone Rd, Dagon Tsp. tel: 0980 21691, 395052. email: blackcanyon@yangon. net.mm. Eugenia 47, Manawhari Housing Estate, Baho Road, Ahlone Tsp. tel: 227346. Feel Myanmar Foods 124, Pyi Htaung Su Yeik Thar Street, Dagon Tsp. tel: 725736. 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.

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

No.168 (C), Dhamazedi Rd, Bahan Township, Yangon. Ph: 09-731-85168, 09-731-78946 Mesamis French Restaurant No.5, U Htun Nyein St, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Mayangone Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 656611, 09-431-35406. Email: info@ mesamisyangon.com Monsoon Restaurant & Bar 85/87, Thein Byu Road, Botahtaung Tsp. Tel: 295224, 09-501 5653.

The Ritz Exclusive Lounge Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Ground Floor, Tel: 544500 Ext 6243, 6244

SOLAR SYSTEM

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

PAINT

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.

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

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

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 No.20, Shwe Taung Kyar Street, Bahan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 512793. Kangaroo Child Care 55, Aung Min Gaung 1st Rd, Kamayut Tsp. Tel: 501 568, 09 504 7732. MAA Learning Centre 377, First fl, Shwe Bon Thar St., Pabedan Tsp. Yangon. Tel: 250501, 250502.

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

STEEL CONSTRUCTION

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

TRAVEL AGENTS

SUPERMARKETS
Asia Light 106, Set Yone Rd., Mingalar Taung Nyunt Tsp. 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. (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) 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,

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

REMOVALISTS

Crown Worldwide Movers Ltd 790, Rm 702, 7th Floor Danathiha Centre, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Lanmadaw Township. tel: 223288, 210 670, 227650. ext: 702. fax: 229212. email: crown worldwide@mptmail.net.mm

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

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

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.

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.

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)

Admissions Office: No. 44, Than Lwin Road, Bahan Township, Yangon. Tel: 535433, 09-850-3073. Email: rviacademygn@ rvcentre.com.sg Streamline Education 24, Myasabai Rd, Parami, Myangone Tsp. tel: 662304, 09-500-6916.

NO.13, Rm-3/4, Kyaung Lane, Myaynigone(N), Tel: 501971, 516955, 516977, email: miracle_ tour@ myanmar.com.mm Sun Far Travels & Tours 27, Ground flr, 38th st, Kyauktada Tsp. Tel: 380888.

WATER HEATERS

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. Kohaku Japanese Restaurant Chatrium Hotel Royal Lake Yangon 40, Natmauk Road, Tamwe Tsp, Lobby Level, Tel: 544500 Ext 6231

Shiki-Tel (Japanese) PARKROYAL Yangon. 33, Alan Pya Phaya Road, Dagon Tsp. tel: 250388. Signature Near U Htaung Bo Round, about Bahan Tsp. tel: 546488, 543387. Sky View Restaurant No. 255, Rm 1504, 15 Flr, Olympic Tower, Bo Aung Kyaw Rd, Kyauktada Tsp, Tel : 386539, 392886.

Kandawgyi (Royal Lake) Park, Yangon. (opposite of Eye Hospital) Ph: 556837, 556838. Fax: 556875. E-mail: whitericeyangon@gmail.com www.whiterice-myanmar. com

LANGUAGE
Bilingual Language Centre Teaching Myanmar to Non-Myanmar No.7 (Gournd Floor), Thu-Kha-Main Street, Myaynigone, San Chaung. Tel: 09-500-6431, nyalinphyu@gmail.com

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.

95, Anawrahta Rd, Pazundaung Tsp. 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

WEB SERVICES

RESTAURANTS

Enchanting and Romantic, a Bliss on the Lake 62 D, U Tun Nyein Road, Mayangon Tsp, Yangon

SCHOOLS

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

Tel. 01 665 516, 660976 Mob. 09-512-7795 operayangon@gmail.com www.operayangon.com

Bldg No. 12, Yangon Intl Compound, Ahlone Road. Tel: 09-431-85008, 09-731-60662. sales@corrianderleaf.com TB Bar & Restaurant The Grand Mee Ya Hta Executive Residences (Second Flr) 372, Bogyoke Aung San Road, Pabedan Tsp, Yangon. Tel: 385101, 256355. 256356 Fax: 385101

Lunch/Dinner/Catering 555539, 536174

22, Kaba Aye Pagoda Rd, Bahan Tsp. tel 541997. email: leplanteur@ mptmail.net.mm. http://leplanteur.net

ASIA Language & Business Academy (All classes are taught by native English-speaking teachers), No-66, Shwedagon Pagoda Road, Dagon Tsp, Yangon, Myanmar. Tel:+95-1376236, 376314, 384055. http://www.alba-edu.com

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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Djokovic eyes grand slam after OZ win

By Talek Harris MELBOURNE Rod Laver was the last man to complete the grand slam back in 1969 and after Novak Djokovics astonishing win in the Australian Open final it looks like the Serb could be next. Laver was watching at Melbourne Park as Djokovic claimed his fourth grand slam title in 12 months. And if his blistering run of form continues and he wins the French Open in June he will hold all four major titles at once. The true grand slam winning all four trophies in a single calendar year will also need him to retain his Wimbledon and US Open titles. Many would bet on Djokovic succeeding where both Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer have failed, after the once delicate world number one survived a record 5hr 53min slugfest with the snarling Spaniard. Youre in pain, youre suffering, you know that youre trying to activate your legs, youre trying to push yourself another point, just one more point, one more game, he said afterwards. Youre going through so much suffering your toes are bleeding. Everything is just outrageous, you know, but youre still enjoying that pain. Important victories seem to spur Djokovic to greater heights. After winning the 2010 Davis Cup with Serbia, he compiled a 43-match winning streak which was only halted by Federer after six months in the French Open semi-finals. Last year he collected the Australian Open, Wimbledon and US Open trophies among 10 titles, and went 70-6 despite struggling with injury from September onwards. Now Djokovic is targeting the French Open, the only major to elude him, which would make him a strong bet to complete the elusive grand slam. Im prioritising grand slams this year, as every year, and Olympic Games. I think thats one of my highest goals, he said. So I want to do well and I want to get to my first final at least in Paris. I have never been in the final there, and I have a feeling that Im ready this year to achieve that. The Australian open final on January 29 , which stretched into the early hours of January 30, proved Djokovic has the capacity to tough it out, something which had seemed in doubt earlier in his career when he was known for pulling out of big matches. And from regular beatings at the hands of Federer and Nadal, the Serb is now the man handing out the punishment.

Novak Djokovic kisses the Australian Open trophy after his victory over Rafael Nadal on January 30. Pic: AFP I was in that position a couple years ago, you know, losing most of the semifinals and finals against him [Nadal] and Roger in grand slams so I know how it feels, he said. I really thought what I said sincerely on the court, is that unfortunately there had to only be one winner because we both gave it all. We both put 100 percent of our abilities on the court and played to the last moment. Unfortunately there couldnt be two winners, but he definitely deserved to be a winner as well tonight. You know, I would be saying same thing if Im sitting here as a loser. And for Djokovic, winning his third Australian Open title in front of Laver, who was celebrating the 50 th anniversary of the first of his two grand slams, gave the occasion added significance. Im very proud just to be part of this history, part of the elite of the players that have won this tournament for several times, he said. I was very flattered to be playing in front of Rod Laver, in front of the alltime greats, and in front of 15,000 people that stayed until 1:30am. Its incredible, really. AFP

Pakistan Aamer released from UK jail, will appeal

By Julian Guyer LONDON Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Aamer was released on February 1 from a British jail after serving half of a six-month sentence for his part in a spot-fixing scam. The 19-year-old was freed from Portland Prison in Dorset, southwest England. Aamer, then a rising star of world cricket, was one of three Pakistan players jailed by a judge in London in November over their roles in a plan to bowl deliberate no-balls during a test against England at Lords in August 2010. However, he cannot immediately return to cricket as he is serving a five-year ban from the sport imposed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his role in the scandal. Aamers mentor Asif Bajwa said he was in good spirits. What has happened is beyond Aamer and when I talked to him on the phone he was in high spirits, Bajwa told AFP in Rawalpindi. He will stay in England for the next two weeks to discuss an appeal against the ICC ban. It remains to be seen whether Aamer can pursue his appeal against the ICC ban in the Switzerland based Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) or not after pleading guilty during last years criminal case. Aamers family is anxiously waiting for his return. We are happy at his release, said elder brother Ejaz. He talked to mother and other members of the family and was very happy at his release. Along with Aamer former Pakistan test captain Salman Butt, 27, was sentenced to two and a half years for his role as the orchestrator of the scam while seamer Mohammad Asif, 28, received a 12-month prison term for bowling a fraudulent no-ball. Mazhar Majeed, 36, the Londonbased sports agent who organised the scam was jailed for two years and eight months. All three players are serving fiveyear ICC bans. The scandal emerged as a result of an undercover investigation by now defunct British tabloid News of the World. Both Butt and Aamer had appeals against their sentences rejected in November, with Englands top judge saying they had betrayed their country. Lord Chief Justice Igor Judge said Aamer was a prodigious young talent with huge potential that might be irreparably damaged by his time out of the game. This is, of course, his own loss and cricket will also be the poorer for the loss. However, a short, immediate prison sentence was necessary and appropriate. Last month, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf held out the prospect of Aamer returning to international cricket once his jail term and ICC ban had been completed. The PCB cannot side with anyone who has done wrong and because of them the name of the country was stained, Ashraf said. Whenever Aamer is cleared by the ICC and serves his punishment, we think he needs intense counselling and then we will take guidance from the ICC about him on whether there was any hitch on his playing. Before the scandal, the left-arm paceman Aamer had made a huge impact with his on-field performances. He took 51 wickets in 14 tests, including seven at Leeds in 2010 as Pakistan beat Australia for the first time in 15 years. Cricket is ripe for exploitation by fixers as there are so many individual incidents that can be manipulated during a match. Much of the betting on the sport takes place in the Indian sub-continent, even though gambling on cricket is illegal in several Asian countries. Pakistan and England are currently playing each other for the first time since 2010, in the United Arab Emirates. The series is being staged in the UAE as major international cricket has been suspended in Pakistan since an armed attack on Sri Lankas team bus in Lahore in March 2009. AFP

McLaren-Mercedes drivers Lewis Hamilton (left) and Jenson Button sit on the newly unveiled MP4-27 Formula One car in Surrey, England on February 1. Pic: AFP

McLaren confident as new car unveiled

LONDON McLaren vowed to avoid a repeat of last years troubled winter testing as they unveiled the car which will carry the hopes of Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button into the new Formula One season on February 1. Former world champions Hamilton and Button were left in Sebastian Vettels slipstream for much of last year as the Red Bull driver clinched back-toback world titles. McLarens failure to mount a sustained challenge has been traced back to a poor winter of testing where the Wokingbased marque struggled to find a competitive set-up for their car. However McLaren chiefs said they expect the new MP4-27 to be capable of tackling Vettel and Red Bull when the 2012 season gets under way. We wont know until qualifying in Australia where this car is, team principal Martin Whitmarsh said. Last year we had, by McLaren standards, an abysmal winter testing session where we didnt have pace. It was a relatively stressful process, and of course Id be much happier to be not fighting those issues. Theres a lot of work gone into this car and we believe were in a better position this winter compared to last. Button and Hamilton, who finished second and fifth respectively last season, were purring with pleasure at the sight of the new McLaren car and are looking forward to testing in Jerez, Spain next week. Its a very exciting day for us all. Its the moment when we see how hard weve all been working, Button said. I want to say thanks to the guys who have been working flat out throughout the winter to develop this car. Testing is now very important. Weve got to come out of the box and be strong. Hamilton also enthused over the new car. I think it looks fantastic. Its great to be here after a great winter, he said. The car is the most refined looking weve had for some time, so Im excited to get back into it. Were coming in massively motivated, fresh, and when you have a good-looking car, generally its a good car, so hopefully that is the case. Hamilton meanwhile welcomed the prospect of a Formula One season that will see no fewer than six world champions lining up on the grid. Hamilton, Button and Vettel will be joined by Michael Schumacher, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen, the highest number of world champions ever to start a Formula One season. We love to have competition. Its great to have so many great drivers. Hopefully there wont be too many more added to it, Hamilton said. Its great for fans, great for the sport. Whitmarsh meanwhile brushed off suggestions that Button and Hamiltons intense r i v al r y c ou l d be c ou n t er productive. We dont like losing or coming second and the last two years have had their frustrations, Whitmarsh said. But weve two drivers who are fierce competitors, they want to beat each other very badly, yet they spur each other on. AFP

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February 6 - 12, 2012
Newcastle were sent on the way to victory at Ewood Park when Blackburns Scott Dann deflected a 22-metre shot from Ryan Taylor past stranded Rovers goalkeeper Paul Robinson in the 12th minute. Blackburn, who remain in the bottom three, had a giltedged chance to equalise before the break but David Dunns penalty was saved by Tim Krul and the Newcastle keeper blocked Gael Givets follow-up. Rovers failure to convert several second half chances was compounded when Gabriel Obertan made it 2-0 to Newcastle in the closing seconds. You have got to have resilience, a good keeper and a good captain and we have got that, said Newcastle manager Alan Pardew. Sunderlands revival under Martin ONeill continued as they beat promoted Norwich 3-0 at the Stadium of Light to climb into eighth position. Fraizer Campbell smashed home a 21st minute opener and seven minutes later he provided the cross for Stephane Sessegnon to head in the home sides second. Sunderlands sixth win in nine league matches under ONeill was completed when Norwich defender Daniel Ayala deflected in a Phil Bardsley cross in the 54th minute. Elsewhere Djibril Cisse marked his return to

MyanMar tiMes

Wenger defiant as Arsenal slip-up again

By Julian Guyer LONDON Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insisted his side could still finish in the top four of the Premier League after a goalless draw away to Bolton Wanderers left them five points shy of a Champions League spot. The February 1 result was made worse for Arsenal by Newcastle beating relegation threatened Blackburn Rovers 2-0 to leapfrog the Gunners and Liverpool into fifth place, two points in front of Wengers men. At the Reebok Stadium, visitors Arsenal dominated possession but, with Robin van Persie off-target, dropped down into seventh a huge 17 points behind leaders Manchester City. When you create six or seven clear-cut chances, it is difficult not to win and we do have regrets but the positives have to be that we didnt concede, said Wenger after Arsenal were left with just one point from their last four league games, having lost all their three previous encounters. And the Frenchman said there was still time for the Gunners to secure a place in the lucrative Champions League. The belief is there, the desire is there and the confidence is there. We have come through a difficult period and we have of course a fight in front of us but we are ready for it.

Arsenal striker, Robin van Persie (centre), has his shot saved by Bolton Wanderers Hungarian goalkeeper Adam Bogdan during a league match at the Reebok Stadium in England on February 1. Pic: AFP English football by scoring on his Queens Park Rangers debut in a 2-2 draw away to Aston Villa. The 30-year-old French striker, thrust into the side a day after completing a transfer deadline day move from Italian side Lazio on January 31, took just 12 minutes to open his Rangers account. Cisse, who had previous spells with Liverpool and Sunderland, struck a fierce shot past Shay Given before celebrating with a somersault. Were delighted that he has such an instant impact so early in his QPR career, said QPR manager Mark Hughes of Cisse. You saw his quality tonight in tight areas, where he was able to use his pace and power and that will be effective for us in the course of the season. Rangers went 2-0 up when Villa defender Stephen Warnock headed a cross from Taye Taiwo into his own net in the 29th minute when under no pressure at all. But Villa pulled one back on half-time when striker Darren Bent turned in an Alan Hutton cross for his 100th Premier League goal. And the resurgent hosts equalised 11 minutes from time when Charles NZogbia volleyed in a Stiliyan Petrov cross. However, the draw saw QPR inch further away from the relegation zone, with Rangers now three points above the bottom three. In London, West Brom manager Roy Hodgson saw his side come from behind to draw 1-1 with Fulham, one of his former clubs. West Brom fell behind to a 69th minute goal from Fulhams United States striker Clint Dempsey. But the Baggies equalised eight minutes from time through substitute Somen Tchoyi. AFP

Swansea agony as struggling Chelsea leave it late

By Graham Clutton SWANSEA, Wales Ten-man Chelsea scrambled an injury-time equaliser to deny Swansea a famous victory as the Londoners battled to a 1-1 draw at the Liberty Stadium on January 31. Former Chelsea winger Scott Sinclair fired Swansea ahead six minutes before half-time only for Jose Bosingwas shot to deflect in off Neil Taylor deep into stoppage time to make it 1-1. It was a dramatic finale for Chelsea, who had earlier seen Ashley Cole sent off after the England full back collected two yellow cards. Chelsea barely had a kick for half a dozen minutes as Swansea played with familiar confidence. Still, with John Terrys replacement Branislav Ivanovic looking solid at the heart of the back four, the Swans were seldom dangerous in the final third. When their chance came, Danny Graham scooped his shot wide from barely four yards. Unable to cope with Swanseas slick movement and speed of passing, the game was 13 minutes old before Chelsea had their first opportunity. David Luiz whipped in a cross from the left and with Swansea short on numbers at the far post, Daniel Sturridge dragged his shot wide. A booking for Taylor, for a rash challenge on Sturridge was thoroughly deserved, with Raul Meireles particularly unhappy with the Wales full-back. Meireles had a spat with Joe Allen too, after the midfield pair came together on the edge of the Swansea box. Shortly after, Swansea blew their best chance of the half. Petr Cech failed to clear from the edge of his penalty area but was thankful for two desperate blocks inside his own six yard box from Luiz. The first denied Gylfi Sigurdsson, the second Graham. As the game increased in pace, Sturridge shot straight at Michel Vorm and Juan Mata first volleyed wide and then put his attempted chip half a dozen yards over. Oriol Romeu was next up, but once more, Vorm was equal to the midfielders less-than-testing strike. A minute later, Swansea were in front. Chelsea failed to clear a free kick from Sigurdsson and Sinclair turned and duly beat Cech at his far post. A booking for Ashley Cole for a foul on Angel Rangel and a deserved yellow for Florent Malouda brought the first half to an end while Rangel followed the Chelsea pair into the book three minutes after the restart. With the words of Andre VillasBoas clearly ringing in their ears, Chelsea were the dominant force as the second half took shape. Torres was still a shadow of his former self with the ball at his feet and his confidence gently flowed away. Far from the force they were prior to half time, Swansea still had their moments and continued to harass the Chelsea playmakers in midfield. Malouda and Meireles had precious little time to dwell on possession as did Mata and Torres in the final third. There was simply no cutting edge, an issue highlighted when Coles searching cross from the left slipped harmlessly across the face of the Swansea goal. A wonderful drive from substitute Michael Essien brushed the woodwork and as Chelsea once again turned up the heat, Swansea found themselves starved of possession. Sturridge prodded Bosingwas cross inches wide 15 minutes from time and as hard as they tried, Chelsea could not break down Swanseas resolute defence until Bosingwa popped up a minute into stoppage time to save Chelseas blushes for a strike that went down as a Taylor own goal. AFP

Puyol grabs Barca draw in cup clash

MADRID A header from Barcelona veteran central defender Carles Puyol saw the Spanish champions come from behind to draw 1-1 with Valencia in their Spanish Cup semi-final first leg match on February 1. Barcelona beaten finalists last year could have won it in the second-half by Lionel Messis penalty was well saved by Diego Alves in the 55th minute. Valencia seven times Cup winners had taken a well deserved lead in the 27th minute thanks to Brazilian forward Jonass well takenshot from just inside the box. However, Barcelona were back on level terms eight minutes later as the talismanic Puyol leapt highest at the back post to head into the net to give his side what could be an invaluable away goal for next weeks second leg. It was all the more creditable as coach Pep Guardiola had to do without a quintet of first choice players because of injury, including Pedro Rodriguez and Andres Iniesta. The other semi-final on January 31 had seen top tier Athletic Bilbao take a 2-1 advantage into next weeks second leg after beating third division Mirandes away. AFP

Chelseas Petr Cech (left) dives for the ball as it goes into the net for Swansea Citys opening goal by Scott Sinclair at the Liberty Stadium in Wales on January 31. Pic: AFP

tImESsPORt
Fergie targets derby in title race
MANCHESTER Sir Alex Ferguson has already pinpointed the Manchester derby in April as the cornerstone of his teams current attempt to regain their Premier League title. Fergusons remarks came after Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini admitted he was to blame for the costly defeat to Everton, providing Manchester United with renewed hope in the title race. A 2-0 victory over Stoke, courtesy of penalties from Javier Hernandez and Dimitar Berbatov, helped United draw level on points with leaders Manchester City who lost 1-0 to Everton, and within six goals of their rivals, at the top of the table. In a campaign that has already produced so many twists and turns, the latest development merely adds to the intriguing plot. With Ferguson expecting to welcome back the injured trio of Wayne Rooney, Nani and Ashley Young for Sundays visit to Chelsea, the veteran manager is clearly happy with the current status quo. The win is obviously significant, but its still the last day in January, said Ferguson. I always see March as the important month and weve got City in April. Mancini insisted he got it all wrong as Darron Gibsons first Premier League goal since March 2010 enabled United to move level on points with City as they crashed to a 1-0 loss at Everton. Gibsons telling contribution for his new club ensures City have only won once in their last 21 visits to Goodison Park and completed an excellent evening for David Moyes, the Everton manager, who celebrated his 150th game in charge of the Merseysiders in style. And the City manager was content to take on the chin a defeat that could have serious repercussions as United bid to beat their deadly rivals to the Premier League crown. We didnt prepare well and we had a problem. I cant make the same mistake next time, Mancini said. Im very disappointed with my mistake and we didnt prepare well with the training. We are still at the top and there are 15 games to go and its important that we win the game at home on Saturday (against Fulham). I thought it would be easier but it never is here. We didnt deserve to lose the game but it was because of my mistake that we did. Moyes insisted this victory was one of the sweetest of his ten-year reign. It typified everything Everton was about - and could be one of the best. It was a brilliant effort and it was certainly up there, he said. Thats as good as its been at Everton for a long time. AFP

February 6 - 12, 2012

(left to right) Rikard Karlberg of Sweden, Himmat Rai of India, Tetsuji Hiratsuka of Japan, Nay Bala Win Myint and Yan Naing Phyoe of Myanmar hold the Zaykabar Myanmar Open trophy at the Royal Mingalardon Golf and Country Club in Yangon on February 2. Pic: AFP

Asian Tour tees off in Yangon

By Aung Si Hein with AFP GOLFERS on the 2012 Asian Tour will vie for prize money of US$40 million, the tour chief said last week. The tour kicked off on February 2 in Yangon with the Zaykabar Myanmar Open as Asian Tour chief Kyi Hla Han said there will be a minimum of 27 tournaments across Asia and as far as Switzerland. Kyi Hla Han said discussions were also in progress to add several other tournaments to the schedule. As the official sanctioning body for professional golf in Asia, we will continue to create vast playing opportunities for players from all around the world, Kyi Hla Han said. It will be another exciting year for us as we steam ahead with our tournaments. Kyi Hla Han also welcomed moves from the US PGA Tour to step up its presence in the region. The PGA has lagged behind the European Tour, which last year co-sanctioned eight Asian events, in its forays into the region, but is now considering an Asian swing with CIMB Asia Pacific Classic in Kuala Lumpur and Shanghais HSBC Champions gaining full PGA status. Previously, CIMB has had just a 40-man field including 10 Asian players. But Kyi Hla Han said it would make sense to turn it into a full event. If its not a ranking event it kind of defeats the purpose of having a sanctioned event, he said. If the PGA Tour puts it on their ranking list I think that would be a positive for all parties. Han said the move would probably be discussed at the International Federation of PGA Tours meeting at the US Masters in April. If the US PGA makes it a full-field ranking event, he said the Asian Tour may do the same. Right now we havent been notified. It will probably be discussed at our meeting during the US Masters, he said. On February 2, 144 players from 23 countries teed off in Yangon for the four-day Myanmar Open, held at Yangons Royal Mingalardon Golf & Country Club, heralding the start of the 27-stop Asian Tour. The rival OneAsia series is due to begin in March. This tournament is a boast for Myanmar golfers. Young guys like Nay Bala and Yan Naing Phyo are trying to make their way to the top in this tournament and hopefully in the world, said Asian Tours Order of Merit champion in 2007, Rikard Karlberg. Although they have their own ground advantage, it will be a tough game for them. The Asian Tour has grown by leaps and bounds, especially in the last 10 years. All the players are professional golfers, so anyone can win this time, he said. Yan Naing Phyo said he was just proud to represent his country at the event. This is my first Asian Tour event. I hope I can do my best, he said. The Zaykabar Myanmar Open is presented by Tay Zas Air Bagan and offers $300,000 to the champion and $47,550 to the top 65 ranked players on merit. This years defending champion is Japanese golfer, Tetsuji Hiratsuka who won in 2010. I am very excited to be back as defending champion in Myanmar. I will try my best to defend the title. Now it is very cold in Japan, so I went to Guan for a warm up exercise so now I feel ready to be here, he said. Myanmars national championship was inaugurated in 1996 and after a lapse last year, returned to the Asian Tour schedule for 2012. Asia has risen from golfing backwater to the sports prime growth area over the past decade, with a trickle of visiting stars becoming a flood thanks to worldstandard purses and facilities, and lavish appearance fees. But with the advent of OneAsia in 2009, and last years introduction of mega-rich exhibition events in China, the Asian schedule suddenly looks congested. However, Han said sponsors were continuing to back Asian golf, despite global economic problems, and he maintained there was still room to expand. The Asian economy so far is stable. I think a lot of companies are still going to have to market their brand, and we work hard to get the right branding with our TV distribution and media distribution, Han added. But he said the Asian Tour was unconcerned by the Chinese exhibition events, including the Shanghai Masters which last year offered a $2 million first prize, the biggest in the sport. These exhibition matches dont really do anything for the development of Chinese golf or golf in Asia. I think the majority of our sponsors are very pleased with having sanctioned, full-field events, he said. The markets crowded but the positive thing is all the sponsors are willing to put their money into golf. I see it as a positive and a challenge to make our results stronger.