TAKE LESSONS FROM FINDINGS OF CULTURAL HERITAGE TO SHAPE GLITTERING FUTURE PAGE-8 (OPINION)

NATIONAL NATIONAL Working committee on facilitation of Union Minister U Aung Naing Oo inspects trade and goods holds meeting investment activities in Mandalay Region

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Vol. VIII, No. 27, 6th Waxing of Kason 1383 ME www.gnlm.com.mm Sunday, 16 May 2021

Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Order No 130/ 2021 5th Waxing of Kason 1383 ME 15 May 2021 Appointment and Duty Assignment of Deputy Minister

THE State Administration Council appointed and assigned Dr Aye Tun to the duty of Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Health and Sports, under Section 419 of the State Constitution. By Order, Aung Lin Dwe Lieutenant-General Secretary State Administration Council

Govt conserves wall paintings at Tilawka Guru Cave in Sagaing

CONSERVATION works are be- preserve the mural paintings ing conducted on ancient mural and history by using modern paintings of the Nyaung Yan era chemicals and techniques. If in Tilawka Guru Cave in Thawta the people visit here, they can Pan Ward of Sagaing, according see the unique architecture and to the Department of Archae- wall paintings of Nyaung Yan ology and National Museum era,” he said. (Sagaing branch). The Tilawka Guru Cave was The wall paintings were constructed in 1034 ME. Accord- drawn in AD 17 and represent ing to the ancient record, it was the artworks of the Nyaung Yan constructed in the term of King era. The artworks are more Anauk Phet Lun in 967ME. than 350 years old, and so con- The cave was made of stone, servation works are conducted including brick, and it is a unique with more than K80 million of architecture of the Nyaung Yan the 2020-2021FY. The operations era. There are three entrance were launched in March, and gates, and we can see six med- now 20 per cent of works com- itation rooms, Gandhakuti and pleted, said the deputy head of corridors to walk. The mural the department. The Tilawka Guru Cave was constructed in 1034 ME. According to the ancient record, it was constructed in the paintings are depicted along “The paintings of 28 Bud- term of King Anauk Phet Lun in 967 ME. the way to the cave.—Min Htet dha statues and more than 30 birth stories of the Buddha, were tus bloom and Buddha footprint the cave. Therefore, the officials Aung (Mandalay Sub-Printing Jataka tales, including ten great depicted on the cave wall. The lo- are also painted on the roof of conduct conservation works to House) /GNLM 16 MAY 2021 2 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Nine Objectives

1. Political affairs (b) To develop a stable market economy and promote international investment (a) To build a Union based on democracy and federalism, through a disciplined in order to enhance the economic development of the entire National people. and genuine multiparty democratic system that is fair and just. (c) To promote and support local businesses to create employment opportu- (b) To emphasize the achievement of enduring peace for the entire nation in nities and increase domestic production. line with the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA). (c) To continue implementing the principle of peaceful co-existence among 3. Social affairs countries through an independent, active and non-aligned foreign policy. (a) To ensure a strong and dynamic Union spirit, the genuine spirit of patriot- ism. 2. Economic affairs (b) To respect and promote the customs and traditions of all National peoples (a) To enhance production based on agriculture and livestock through modern and preserve and safeguard their cultural heritage and national charac- techniques and strengthen all-round development in other sectors of the teristics. economy. (c) To enhance the health, fitness and education quality of the entire nation.

Five-Point Road Map of the State Administration Council

1. The Union Election Commission will be reconstituted and its mandated tasks, including the scrutiny of voter lists, shall be implemented in accordance with the law. 2. Effective measures will be taken with added momentum to prevent and manage the COVID-19 pandemic. 3. Actions will be taken to ensure the speedy recovery of businesses from the impact of COVID-19. 4. Emphasis will be placed on achieving enduring peace for the entire nation in line with the agreements set out in the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement. 5. Upon accomplishing the provisions of the state of emergency, free and fair multiparty democratic elections will be held in line with the 2008 Constitution, and further work will be undertaken to hand over State duties to the winning party in accordance with democratic standards.

Working committee on facilitation Tatmadaw purchases of trade and goods holds meeting 30,755-viss onion from Myittha farmers THE Tatmadaw members they could sell. The COVID-19 from the Central Command outbreak has disrupted trans- visited the farms of local farm- port and make it difficult for ers in the villages in Myittha local farmers to sell their Township, Mandalay Region. crops and causing damage They bought 30,755 visses of to crops. onion at a price that local It is reported that they farmers could sell yesterday. will continue to buy the sea- Regional Tatmadaw sonal crops depending on the members have been buying difficulties of the local farm- farmers' crops at a price that ers.—MNA

CHAIRMAN of the Working rice loading for export to Bang- International Ports. Of them, a Committee on Ensuring the ladesh on MV VTC Planet. total of 3,445,810 tonnes of agri- Smooth Flow of Trade and Goods As of 12 May, the 2020- cultural products were exported Deputy Minister for Commerce 2021FY, 6,886,004 tonnes of ag- between February and 12 May U Nyunt Aung, the Permanent ricultural products: 1,306,300 2021. Secretary for Commerce, Secre- tonnes of rice and broken rice; It is reported that traders tary of the working committee, 2,035,113 tonnes of corn; 1,112,963 and business persons can con- officials from the Myanmar Port tonnes of various beans; 217,449 tact the Working Committee Authority and the Myanmar Rice tonnes of sesame seeds; 208,978 Telephone No 09-664075683; Federation discussed export of tonnes of raw rubber and 09-687635943; 09-676320826; 09- agricultural products yesterday 2,005,202 tonnes of other agri- 664596327 or Central Commit- evening in Yangon. cultural products. tee Telephone No. 067-409671; Afterwards, they visited A total of 6,886,004 tonnes 067-409672 and 067-409673 for Sule Port No (7) and inspected were exported through Yangon assistance. — MNA 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 3

MNMM MNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNNM N NN For reducing edible oil consumption N N N Edible oil crops are involved on the list of primary export items of Myanmar. As individual people of Myanmar consumes 4.5 visses of edible oil per year, its consumption rate is too high. Import of edible oil abroad spends much foreign exchange because edible oil cannot be produced at home sufficiently. As it is N M necessary to ensure edible oil sufficiency at home, efforts must be made for thriving edible oil crop plantations in the respective areas so as to increase the per-acre yield of edible oil crops. The Ministry of Health and Sports and the Ministry of Information must continuously perform the educative tasks N M for reducing edible oil consumption. N M (Excerpt from the speech to the Management Committee meeting made by the Republic of the Union of Myanmar State Administration Council Chairman Senior General Min Aung Hlaing on 11 May 2021) MNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNMMNN

Union Minister U Aung Naing Oo inspects investment activities in Mandalay Region UNION Minister for Investment tators, and called for business and Foreign Economic Relations community to cooperate with (MIFER) U Aung Naing Oo vis- government to stabilize the ited KM Terminal and Logistics banking business building mu- Limited near Myit Nge Railway tual trust. Station, Mandalay Region, on The Union Minister also up- the morning of 15 May. At the dated the existing cooperation company’s meeting room, the with ASEAN member states and Union Minister was briefed on benefits from regional cooper- the expansion of the dry port ation programmes despite the project phase-2 with increased challenge ahead. investment and the current sta- Afterwards, Chairman U tus of the phase-1 operation by Maung Ko of the Mandalay Re- U Win Naing Nyunt, Director of gional Administration Council Mother Logistic Co., Ltd. discussed the strategies and After hearing the report, recovery plan being undertak- the Union Minister explained ing by the Mandalay Regional the potential of logistic sectors government to mitigate the development in Myanmar and impacts of COVID-19. Then, existing and future regional co- the investors raised some im- operation programmes, future plementation constraints to be development strategies for dry coordinated with relevant gov- port business, the private sector and called for the public and The Union Minister ex- agency responsible for coordi- ernment agencies. The Union cooperation for the human re- private sectors collaboration plained the future programmes nation and facilitation among rel- Minister and the Chairman of source development and promo- to mitigate the serious impact laid down by State Adminis- evant government agencies, is Regional Administration Coun- tion of investment in the logistic on economy during the political tration Council particularly for providing necessary assistance cil coordinated and fulfilled the sectors. transition. economic affairs emphasizing not only for existing investors needs of the investors. In the afternoon, the Union The Union Minister said the agriculture and livestock sec- but also for expansion and new Members of the Mandalay Minister and the Chairman of that Myanmar’s economy has tor as priority areas since most investment, and also explained Region Administration Council, Mandalay Region Administra- not been spared from the re- suitable and relevant to current the current reform measures, officials from the Ministry of In- tion Council attended the meet- versed impact of the COVID-19 situation of the country, and to under the guidance of State Ad- vestment and Foreign Econom- ing with investors at Pullman pandemic, and effective and encourage the local investors to ministration Council, to facilitate ic Relations, the Chairman and Mandalay Mingalar Hotel in efficient cooperation with the promote their investment was the businesses by reducing reg- Vice-Chairmen of the Mandalay Mandalay. government and the stakehold- also highlighted in programmes. ulatory burden. Region Chambers of Commerce At the meeting, the Union ers are crucial for recovery of The Union Minister in- The Union Minister also and Industries and the investors Minister briefed the current de- the country’s economy in short formed the investors and de- explained the current banking and traders attended the meet- velopment of political situation term period. velopers that MIFER, a focal issues due to the political agi- ing. — MNA Insurgent groups attack police station, security members 24 new cases of COVID-19 reported on 15 May, total THE armed insurgent groups Hla Myo Aung, who lives in Aung lice conducted patrolling at the attacked the security forces in Thitsar Ward, at the corner of No middle school in Lanmadaw some townships. (3) B.E.M.S near Shwe Bon Tha street of No (6) Ward in Myingyan figure rises to 143,059 On 14 May, the terrorists football stadium together with Township of Mandalay Region. launched an attack on Kalay one handmade bomb and two A police member was injured MYANMAR’S COVID-19 positive cases rose to 143,059 after Myoma police station in Kalay motorcycles. in the attack and taken to Tat- Township of Sagaing Region. Similarly, about 40 insur- madaw hospital. 24 new cases were reported on 15 May 2021 according to The security members conduct- gents attacked the police with The security forces acceler- the Ministry of Health and Sports. Among these confirmed ed counterattack and blocked small weapons, including hand- ate their security measures to cases, 132,100 have been discharged from hospitals. —MNA the way of insurgents. The po- made guns, percussion rifles and uncover the armed insurgents. lice arrested five men, including handmade bombs, when the po- — MNA 16 MAY 2021 4 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Central institute of civil service (upper Myanmar) to reopen training courses

CHAIRMAN of the Union Civil civil service personnel in order Board and Board Member U San to serve the people by following Myint arrived at the Central In- the rules, increasing coopera- stitute of Civil Service (Upper tion, mutual respect, working Myanmar) in Zeepin Gyi village in an organization, modernizing in PyinOoLwin and inspected curricula, and coordinating with preparation for the institute in related universities. line with COVID-19 preventive The Union Civil Service measures to open civil service Board will launch a primary of- training courses that have been ficer (special) training course suspended since the COVID-19 and Postgraduate Diploma outbreak. Course in Public Service Man- During the inspection tour, agement from 7 June. Basic the Chairman met the rector training for clerks, basic train- and officials of the institute. ing for junior officers, and ba- He discussed emphasizing the sic training for officers will be teaching on national defence and opened at the Central Institute of security disciplines in addition to Civil Service (Upper Myanmar). the regular courses taught by the It will continue to provide train- institute. He instructed them to ing within a specified period. – train in increasing the spirit of MNA/GNLM

Nay Pyi Taw Development Bank holds annual meeting of 2019-2020FY

NAY PYI TAW Development Kyaw Nyein read out the an- Bank held its annual meeting nual report of the 2019-2020FY. of the 2019-2020 financial year The meeting also ap- via videoconferencing yester- proved the BOD members for day. The stakeholders of the 2020-2021FY. Nay Pyi Taw Development Daw Khin Myo Aung, Committee and officials of the Senior Manager of Win Thin bank joined the meeting. & Associates Certified Public Nay Pyi Taw Council Accountants, read the audit Chairman Dr Maung Maung report of 2019-2020FY. At the Naing, in his capacity as May- same time, Deputy Managing or and Patron of the bank’s Director U Soe Tun clarified Board of Directors, discussed the further work plans of the the Financial Institutions Law, bank. Myanmar Companies Law, After that, Nay Pyi Taw Central Bank of Myanmar Council Chairman expressed Law and the use of IT in the words of thanks and concluded Digital Banking sector as per Then, Deputy Mayor of in his capacity as the chairman ing processes conducted in the the meeting.—MNA Myanmar auditing standards. Nay Pyi Taw U Maung Maung, of the bank, presented bank- 2019-2020FY and CEO Aung Low supply hikes up durian price this year

DURIAN sellers in Myeik Dis- mostly depends on horticul- trict, Taninthayi Region, earn a ture and fishery businesses. healthy profit due to the price Durian sees higher purchase gain amid the low yield this orders from Yangon this year. year, said a durian seller. Despite low yield, the sellers “The production declined are satisfied with a high price this year. However, we are and steady demand”, said a happy with the higher price. seasonal fruit seller. The price of a big sized duri- Additionally, Thailand is an soared to K5,000-6,000 from buying the durian seeds at K3,000. The small durian also K6,000 per viss (1.6 kg). So, fetched a high of K1,000-1,500. nothing goes to waste. Both the Shanchaung Road in Myeik is flesh and seeds are marketable, crowded with durian sellers she continued. and buyers this year”, said a The durians from Kyunsu, seller U Lwin Aye. Myeik and Taninthayi town- Last year, the demand ships are highly competitive sharply fell owing to the travel in the domestic market, regard- restrictions triggered by the less of the low yield as against The durians from Kyunsu, Myeik and Taninthayi townships are highly competitive in the domestic market, COVID-19. that of last year. — Myint Oo regardless of the low yield as against that of last year. “The local community (Myeik)/GNLM 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 5 SAC Information Team holds 5/2021 press conference

THE Information Team of the findings. State Administration Council The journalists raised held a 5/2021 press conference questions on the facts they at the Ministry of Information wanted to know. Maj-Gen yesterday. Team Leader Maj- Zaw Min Tun, UEC Member Gen Zaw Min Tun, UEC Mem- U Khin Maung Oo, CBM Dep- ber U Khin Maung Oo, CBM uty Governor U Win Thaw, and Deputy Governor U Win Thaw the departmental information and representatives of the de- team representatives gave the partmental information team answers. Then, the event has replied to the questions raised concluded. by the media. Those attending the press Information Team Leader conference viewed round facts Maj-Gen Zaw Min Tun, through about the press conference, en- PowerPoint presentation, ex- deavours of the current UEC, plained the efforts for the ed- the inspection of voter lists and ucation sector, the SAC perfor- necessary documents. mance in April, the declaration The press conference of terrorist groups against was also attended by report- NUG, CRPH and PDF and the ers from local news agencies, Press conference 5/2021 of the SAC Information Team in progress. news about the insurgents who daily newspapers, local TV launched bomb attacks. new UEC performance, voting oppression to commit voting of voter lists in daily newspa- broadcasting stations and lo- Then, UEC Member U frauds found before and after frauds, the UEC announce- pers and the plans to release cal-based foreign news agen- Khin Maung Oo clarified the the 2020 General Election, ments regarding the findings the inventory of the inspection cies. — MNA

Rioters set fire to state-owned 18 rioters arrested in Taunggyi and Yankin buildings and homes

Ravages in the aftermath of arson attacks. RIOTERS set fire on state- in Taze Township, Sagaing owned buildings and homes Region, was destroyed by fire. of the residents in townships Rioters also threw fire of Magway Region, Sagaing bottles, and homemade Region and Bago Region on bombs to two houses of 14 May. the ward administrators in Arrestees seen along with riot materials. Due to arson attacks, two Madauk town, Nyaunglebin houses of the teachers from Township, Bago Region, at A total of 18 rioters were ar- were detained from the riot on near Moe Kaung bus stop the Basic Education Prima- 1 am on 14 May. However, no rested with materials used in Yadanar Thiri road lane (4) and yesterday morning in Yankin ry School in Nhatpyarkyin explosion nor fire broke out. riots after the security forces West Ring Road, Nyaung Phyu Township, Yangon and 12 were village, Laungshay town, It is reported that investi- dispersed the crowd yester- camp ward, Taunggyi, after arrested. Gangaw Township, Magway gations are underway to iden- day morning in Taunggyi, Shan the security forces dispersed It is reported that rioters Region. Su Paung checkpoint tify and take action against State and Yankin, Yangon Re- the group of about 40 rioters who are under arrest will be temporarily closed on YeU- the arsonists responsible for gion. yesterday morning. taken actions under the law. Taze-Kalewa highway road the violent acts.—MNA Six men and two women About 20 rioters gathered —MNA Gun owners voluntarily surrender their firearms PEACEFUL people who do not want to take arms voluntarily handed over their handmade guns and percussion, lock firearms to security forces through the states/regions administrators. On 14 May, the people from Padaung Township gave 44 handmade guns, and the people from Nattalin Township of Bago Region transferred five percussion rifles to the security members on 14 May. The security members systematically keep the firearms surrendered by the people. — MNA 16 MAY 2021 6 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Military tribunal to take effective Tatmadaw medics ready action against terrorists in Mindat to assist in Phaunggyi COVID-19 medical centre THE COVID-19 prevention, control and treatment activities are being accelerated in the country, and the Tatmadaw medical team is dispatched to the COVID-19 treatment centre (Phaunggyi). The 17th Tatmadaw medical team will transfer duties with the 16th batch of a 41-member medical team. Commander of Yangon Command Maj-Gen Nyunt Win Swe and other officials met and comforted the new medical team members yesterday morning. Then, one of the medical team volunteers explained their aims for providing medical services, and the Commander gave the presents. The current 37-member Tatmadaw volunteer medical team includes Pathologists, Radiologists, staff nurses and other-level medical staff.—MNA

THE military tribunal will be were attacked on the way to Min- abducted two assistant engineers convened to try perpetrators of dat by about 1,000 rioters with from the Mindat District Electric- the terrorist attacks and those guns and homemade mines, ity Office on 12 May. who encouraged the violence and causing six vehicles were de- Terrorists contacted the il- crimes under the existing laws in stroyed by fire, and some soldiers legal CRPH and formed the ille- Mindat Township of Chin State. were killed and disappeared. gitimate Public Administration The Martial Law Order was During a total of 5 attacks Council intending to undermine issued on 13 May to promote the on the security forces on Matu- the security and safety of the re- rule of law and regional peace pi-Mindat road, one man was gion. It is reported that security more effectively in Mindat when dead, and one percussion lock forces will work day and night Security forces continue the terrorist attacks and violence firearm and four homemade for the peace and security of the were escalated, although admin- mines were confiscated. town with the cooperation of the confiscating weapons, istration officials, department In addition to the armed residents, and violators of crimes officials, elders of the town and attacks on security forces, the to be tried by the military tribu- equipment used in terrorist religious leader discussed peace terrorists opened fire to the My- nal will be taken effective action and the rule of law in the region. anma Economic Bank and the under the existing laws. – MNA attacks On 14 May, security forces Township Police Station. They SECURITY forces confiscat- searched the house of Daw ed one homemade gun and Win, 40. They confiscated Rockets fired at Toungoo airbase, military outfits related equipment to be used four long swords, four knives in the terrorist attack from a and related equipment used resident of Moekyo village, in terrorist attacks in Tamwe Madaya Township, Manda- Township, Yangon Region. lay Region and seven per- It is reported that in- cussion lock firearms and 28 vestigations are underway fibre helmets from Monywa to take actions against the Township, Sagaing Region owners of the weapons and on 14 May. equipment used in terrorist Similarly, security forces attacks.—MNA

THE terrorists (under scru- three fell at about 100metres, rockets attached with one tiny) used 107MM rockets to 200 metres and 350 metres 100W battery, one drip bottle attack the Toungoo airbase from the Air station and ex- and one clip used by the in- and the military outfits in Bago ploded. There were no reports surgents in the open field at Region yesterday. of injuries and damages to the about 1,300 metres from Aike During their attack, one buildings. Sauk Village. rocket fell at about 100 metres When security forces con- The security members from Toungoo military outfits ducted a land clearance oper- conduct investigations to ar- and did not explode. Another ation, they found six 107MM rest the terrorists. — MNA 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR LOCAL BUSINESS 7 Agro exports show remarkable growth despite slump in other export groups THE agricultural exports spike gapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, to a high of US$3.289 billion in the Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, past seven months (Oct-Apr) of and Sri Lanka. Sometimes, the the current financial year 2020- export market remains uncertain 2021, despite the downward trend due to unsteady global demand. in other export groups amid the The country requires specific banking restriction tightened export plans for each agro-prod- coronavirus containment meas- uct. They are currently exported ures in the border. to external markets based upon The figures reflect a signif- supply and demand. Contract icant rise of $901 million this FY. farming systems, regional and The agro exports topped $2.38 bil- state agriculture departments, lion in the corresponding period exporters, traders, and some of the 2019-2020FY, according to grower groups are required to the trade figures released by the meet production targets, said Ministry of Commerce. an official from the Agriculture The agricultural exports un- Department. expectedly surge regardless of The Commerce Ministry is the impact of the coronavirus on Myanmar agro-products are primarily exported to China, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Bangladesh, working to help farmers deal with India, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. foreign demand for other export challenges such as high input groups such as fishery, livestock, riculture industry performed the al industry are rice and broken agro products are also shipped to costs, procurement of pedigree mineral, forest products, finished best, accounting for over 22 per rice, pulses and beans and maize. other countries. seeds, high cultivation costs, industrial goods and other goods. cent of overall exports. The top Fruits and vegetables, sesame, Myanmar agro-products are and erratic weather conditions. In the exports sector, the ag- export items in the agricultur- dried tea leaves, sugar, and other primarily exported to China, Sin- — KK/GNLM

Domestic gold price hits Fuel oil import down by 1 mln tonnes in highest record of K1.7 mln in seven months (Oct-Apr) history, falls by K75,000 in a day MYANMAR imported nearly diesel and K1,015 for premium Myanmar, Myanmar Petroleum US$1.2 billion worth 2.7 million diesel, according to the local fuel Trade Association stated. THE price of the gold bar hit a (2 February) and the highest tonnes of diesel and gasoline oil market. Last year, the domestic oil new high of over K1.7 million level of K1,410,000 (3 February). during the past seven months Domestic oil price is posi- prices declined from January per tical (16.4 gm), which hit In March, the rate fluctuated (Oct-Apr) of the current finan- tively related to the global mar- owing to a fall in global oil prices. the highest record in the do- between the most elevated of cial year 2020-2021, indicating ket and the dollar value. Crude On 8 January 2020, oil prices mestic gold history. However, K1,391,000 (25 March) and the a sharp drop of 1 million tonnes oil futures have rallied to their were pegged at around K905 the price fell by K75,000 per lowest of K 1,302,000 (4 March). ($663.347 million) compared to highest finish in months, with per litre for Octane 92, K995 for tical in a single day, according In April, the rate touched the the corresponding period of last WTI climbing above $65 per bar- Octane 95, and K985 for diesel to Yangon Gold Entrepreneurs lowest level of K1,389,000 (1 year, according to the Ministry rel in mid-May. and premium diesel. Following Association (YGEA). April) and the highest level of of Commerce. Additionally, the foreign the global market crashing, the The domestic gold price K1,455,000 (30 April), the gold In the current budget year, exchange rate also affects the domestic oil price plunged to was recorded at its highest traders said. Myanmar imported 1.6 million petroleum price. The US dollar more than 50 per cent in April rate of K1,709,000 per tical on The local gold price tonnes ($721.173 million) of die- is gaining against Kyat in the against January’s prices. 12 May. Then, the price dramat- reached the lowest level of sel and over 1 million tonnes local forex market starting from In late April 2020, the oil ically dropped to K1,634,000 per K1,310,500 (2 September) and (536.113 million) of petrol, as per April, rising above K1,600 per prices touched the lowest of tical on 14 May, a drop by over the highest level of K1,314,000 data of the Commerce Ministry. dollar. In mid-February, a dollar K290-330 per litre for Octane 92, K75,000 per tical in only one day. (1 September). In October, the Typically, a monthly oil im- was worth only K1,430. K430-455 for Octane 95, K435- The domestic gold price rate ranged between K1,307,800 port is estimated at $400 mil- Usually, Myanmar imports 465 for diesel, and K445-475 for has significantly dropped, (30 October) and K1,316,500 lion, yet the oil importers face fuel oil primarily from Singapore, premium diesel, according to with instability in the global (21 October). The rate fluctu- banking restrictions for mar- with monthly volumes touching the domestic oil market. gold price and the US dollar ated between the highest of itime trade. Oil importers via 200,000 tonnes for gasoline and Ninety per cent of fuel oil exchange rate, said U Myo My- K1,312,000 (16 November) and land border can use informal 400,000 tonnes for diesel. About in Myanmar is imported, while int, the chair of YGEA. the lowest of K1,278,000 (28 payment Hundi system instead, 2,000 fuel stations and over 50 the remaining 10 per cent is pro- The global gold price was November). In December, the said an importer. oil importer companies exist in duced locally. – KH/GNLM recorded at US$1,834 per ounce pure yellow metal priced moved At present, the domestic on 12 May and it fell to $1,823 in the range of K1,275,000 (1 fuel oil price has risen above per ounce on 14 May, with a sig- December) and K1,333,000 (28 30 per cent per litre in three nificant tumble of $11 in a day. December), according to the months. The heightened coro- Meanwhile, the local dollar gold traders. navirus restriction and possi- exchange rate was at K1,720 With global gold prices on ble lockdown in Asia sparked oil per dollar on 12 May but it the uptick, the domestic price demand concerns, coupled with plummeted to K1,675per dollar hit fresh highs in 2019, reaching a strong dollar exchange rate. on 14 May, dropping by K45 per K1,000,000 per tical between The fuel oil was pegged at dollar a day. 17 January and 21 February, around K620 per litre for Octane In January 2021, the do- crossing K1,100,000 (22 June 92, K750 for Octane 95, K660 for mestic gold fetched the highest to 5 August), climbing to over diesel and K670 for premium price of K1,336,000 per tical on 6 K1,200,000 (7 August-4 Septem- diesel in early February 2021 in January. It reached the lowest ber), and then reaching an all- the domestic retail market. price of K 1,316,000 per tical on time record high of K1,300,000 On 13 May, it rallied to the In late April 2020, the oil prices touched the lowest of K290-330 per litre 28 January. In February, it got on 5 September in 2019. — NN/ highest of K1,005 for Octane 92, for Octane 92, K430-455 for Octane 95, K435-465 for diesel, and K445- the lowest level of K1,340,000 GNLM K1,090 for Octane 95, K1,005 for 475 for premium diesel, according to the domestic oil market. 16 MAY 2021 16 MAY 2021 8 OPINION THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR ARTICLE / NATIONAL 9

Take lessons from Pandemic to be ‘far more deadly’ this year, WHO warns Public information

findings of cultural Yangon Region Administration Council is working with rele- The World Health Organization issued a grim warning on Friday that the second year of Covid-19 was set to be vant departments to help the businesses in the region. People are informed to contact the following phone numbers to get “far more deadly”, as Japan extended a state of emergency amid growing calls for the Olympics to be scrapped. assistance for their small and medium-scaled businesses heritage to shape and investments which are facing some delays and working to do new businesses. E’RE on track for Covid,” said Jil Wirries, a 28-year came out unequivocally against. Phone numbers: 01 830 1975, 01 830 2175 glittering future the second year of old student from Hanover, Ger- “Essential workers are still “Wthis pandemic to be many, collecting luggage on the forced to play mask police for Yangon Region Administration Council far more deadly than the first,” island of Crete. shoppers who are unvaccinated OREIGNERS have been identifying Myanmar as a golden said WHO director-general Tedros “Everything is terrible in and refuse to follow local COVID land in addition to the land of pagodas in successive eras. Adhanom Ghebreyesus. Germany... people are depressed... safety measures. Are they now F It is true that a lot of pagodas mushroom on the land of The mood also darkened in I’m so happy to be here.” supposed to become the vaccina- Myanmar. In fact, the land of Myanmar admits religious edifices not Japan where the coronavirus France and Spain launched tion police?” it said. only of Buddhism but also of other religions such as Christianity, state of emergency took in an- tourism campaigns this week too. “My initial reaction was sup- Islam and Hinduism. other three regions just 10 weeks But in the United States portive, but the more I think about Most of these religious edifices became ancient buildings con- before the Olympics, while cam- many were confused a day after it, I wish they had said, ‘Let’s do structed more than 100 years old. As such, these are involved in the paigners submitted a petition with the top health agency lifted all this on July 1. If you aren’t vacci- list of ancient buildings. more than 350,000 signatures call- mask-wearing requirements for nated yet, this is your chance to The Department of Ar- ing for the Games to be cancelled. fully vaccinated people. go do it,’” said airborne disease chaeology and National Mu- With Tokyo and other areas ‘Milestone’ specialist Linsey Marr. seum under the Ministry of already under emergency orders The move has raised ques- The WHO also said Friday Currently, Religious Affairs and Culture until the end of May, Hiroshima, tions about how to implement it that even the vaccinated should strives for repair, renovation, Okayama and northern Hokkaido, -- the foremost being, how do you keep wearing masks in areas maintenance and preserva- which will host the Olympic mar- Some lucky holidaymakers are enjoying the reopened tourist industry in Greek destinations. PHOTO: AFP tell if a person is fully vaccinated? where the virus is spreading. Myanmar tion of these ancient build- athon, will now join them. It has led to a patchwork of “Vaccination alone is not a ings not to lose architectural Japanese public opinion is India meanwhile started jab per year. gress,” Johnson said. regulations around the country. guarantee against infection or works and artistic works by firmly opposed to holding the deploying Russia’s Sputnik V India has been adding rough- Britain’s health ministry has Some states never had mask man- against being able to transmit is making applying various modern Games this summer. coronavirus vaccine, the first ly as many new Covid cases daily tracked the variant in northwest dates in the first place. Others that infection to others,” WHO’s techniques and expertise of Swiss tennis great Roger foreign-made shot to be used in as the rest of the world put to- England and in London. lifted them well before the new chief scientist Soumya Swamina- local and foreign experts. Federer said Friday that “what the country that has been reeling gether. Germany has already added advice. Some were reviewing the than said. utmost ef- The government has set the athletes need is a decision: is from an explosion in cases and More than 260,000 Indians the UK back onto its list of “risk idea, but others such as Maryland More than 580,000 people many archaeological sites it happening or isn’t it?” deaths. have died, according to official areas” requiring extra checks -- and Virginia rushed to implement have died in the US of Covid-19. forts to rec- across the nation depending “I would love to play in the The first token batch of Sput- figures. but not necessarily quarantine it. But almost 60 per cent of US on locations of ancient cultur- Olympics... But if that doesn’t hap- nik vaccines -- reportedly 150,000 In Europe, British Prime -- for incoming travellers. Major companies are also adults have now received one or al heritage while searching pen due to the situation, I would be doses -- arrived on May 1 and a Minister Boris Johnson warned Elsewhere around the conti- weighing their options. Retail gi- more doses, while cases are fall- ognize the more and more archaeologi- the first to understand,” he added. second delivery is expected in the that the arrival of the B1.617.2 nent, tourist hotspots are opening ant Walmart was among those ing fast, and children are also now cal sites in regions and states. The pandemic has killed at next few days. variant, one of those believed to up. who said Friday it would lift its being vaccinated. For the time being, the least 3,346,813 people worldwide A number of leading In- be driving the Indian surge, could Greece kickstarted its tour- mask mandate for fully vaccinated The WHO, however, urged internation- government is making efforts since the virus first emerged in dia-based drugmakers have delay reopening of society and the ism season on Friday, hoping to staff and customers. wealthy countries to stop vacci- for seeking the recognition of late 2019, according to an AFP agreements for local production economy. reverse last year’s miserable But United Food and Com- nating children and instead do- the international community, tally of official data. of Sputnik V with the aim to pro- “This new variant could pose summer. mercial Workers, a union which nate doses to poorer nations. al commu- particularly UNESCO, over Sputnik vaccines reach India duce over 850 million doses of the a serious disruption to our pro- “I hope to forget this damn represents 1.3 million people, SOURCE: AFP the heritage sites of Myan- mar. Thanks to the succes- nity over sive governments, ancient Pyu city-states of Myanmar, Experts call for new standards to combat airborne disease the Bagan archaeological its tangible area and others have been Building standards need to undergo a “paradigm shift” to better protect against airborne diseases, a group of ex- recognized by UNESCO and the ASEAN. perts said Thursday, drawing on hard-won lessons from the Covid pandemic. and intan- Currently, Myanmar is making utmost efforts to rec- UTURE building designs Aerial transmission of dis- fer for different venues according They also called for wide use “A paradigm shift is needed encourage cities to organize clean gible cultur- ognize the international com- must incorporate increased eases wasn’t recognized for a to the activities conducted there,” of monitors, so that members of on the scale that occurred when water supplies and centralized munity over its tangible and Fventilation and air-cleaning long time, the authors wrote, be- they said, with higher rates re- the public are aware of the air qual- Chadwick’s Sanitary Report in sewage systems,” they concluded. intangible cultural heritage. measures, including filtration and cause “it is much harder to trace quired for exercising in gyms com- ity in the indoor spaces they share. 1842 led the British government to SOURCE: AFP al heritage. In this regard, it is necessary disinfection using both filters and airborne infections,” while food pared to resting in movie theatres. to enhance researchers and ultraviolet devices, they wrote in and water contamination nearly Rates will also have to differ archaeologists’ capacity in or- the journal Science. always come from an easily iden- depending on the type of pathogen der to preserve the heritage This comes as accumulating tifiable source. that is currently prevalent, given with more arrangements of data suggest that tiny particles “Airborne studies are much that emission rates and infectious holding the seminars, workshops, and paper-reading sessions. containing the coronavirus that more difficult to conduct because doses vary. A paper-reading session on the conservation of ancient cultural are released by breathing, speak- air as a contagion medium is neb- It is also important to add heritage took place at the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Culture ing, sneezing, and coughing are a ulous, widespread, not owned by control systems to adjust energy in Nay Pyi Taw in recent days. Departmental officials from the major driver of Covid spread. anybody and uncontained.” use and prevent air pollution from ministry read their research papers focusing on findings in ancient The 39 experts, who include What’s more, “most modern outside contaminants indoors, the city-states, fine artworks, evidence in bronze and iron ages, and some of the world’s foremost en- building construction has oc- paper added. The authors called stone inscriptions. vironmental engineers, noted that curred subsequent to a decline in for global indoor air quality stand- Indeed, cultural heritage has the root causes of improving the there was a marked disparity in the belief that airborne pathogens ards (IAQ) led by the World Health current situation of the country. Such root causes proved the cultural the way governments regulated are important” and therefore lack Organization and the development standards of the past humans. That is why we need to take lessons food safety, sanitation and drink- design and construction elements of comprehensive standards by from these past events so as to shape the glittering future for all. ing water compared to airborne to mitigate the risk. national governments and profes- Future building designs must incorporate increased ventilation and air-cleaning measures, including filtration pathogens. “The ventilation rate will dif- sional bodies. and disinfection using both filters and ultraviolet devices, they wrote in the journal Science. PHOTO: AFP 16 MAY 2021 10 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Files opened against health staff who participated in CDM activity with attempts to deteriorate peace and stability of the State

THE following nurses have been charged under Section 505-A of the Penal Code for inciting State service personnel and health staff to participate in CDM activ- ities, themselves participating in it, supporting CDM activities and CRPH unlawful association with the aim of deteriorating the State administrative machinery.

Sr Name Occupation Address Section Photo 6 Daw Su Su Zalun Hospital Zalun Town, Ay- 505-a of Penal Aung (Senior eyawady Region Code Nurse) 1 Daw Alli Pala Station Pala Town, 505-a San (Senior Hospital Taninthayi Re- Nurse) gion 7 Daw Chaw Momauk Hos- Momauk Town, 505-a Su Su Pyay pital Kachin State (Nurse)

2 U Aung Kyaukka Station Palaw Town, 505-a Thi (Senior Hospital Taninthayi Re- Nurse) gion 8 Daw Nwe Zin Kyunhla Town, 505-a Myint Kawlin Hospital Sagaing Region (Nurse)

3 U Htaik Aung Pyinmana Hos- Loikaw Town, 505-a Khant (Senior pital Kayah State Nurse) 9 Daw Aye Wuntho Town, 505-a Chan May Kawlin Hospital Sagaing Region (Nurse) 4 Daw Phyu Bhamo Hospital Bhamo Town, 505-a Phyu Aye Kachin State (Senior 10 U Kyaw Soe Kengtung Gener- Kengtung town, 505-a Nurse) Thu (Nurse) al Hospital Shan State (East)

5 Daw Khin Kalaw Hospital Kalaw Town, 505-a Sanda Phyu Shan State (Senior (South) As tasks are being carried out to arrest those nurses charged, action will Nurse) be taken against the the persons who admitted them under the law for the supporting those nurse who participated in CDM and CRPH activities. —MNA

Files opened against education staff who participated in CDM activity with attempts to deteriorate peace and stability of the State

THE following teachers have been charged under Section 505-A of the Penal Code for inciting State service personnel and education staff to participate in CDM activities, themselves participating in it, supporting CDM activities and CRPH unlawful association with the aim of deteriorating the State administrative ma- chinery.

Sr Name Occupation Addresst Section Photo 6 U Myo Myint Assistant Lec- Amarapura, 505-a of Penal Aung turer, Yadanar- Mandalay Code pon University, Region 1 Dr Myo Min Pro Rector, Uni- Pyay, Bago 505-a Amapura Than versity of Com- Region puter Science, 7 U Taing Lecturer, Myit- Myitkyina, 505-a Pyay Kyaw Thu kyina University, Kachin State Myitkyina 2 U Tin Maung Assistant Regis- Chauk, Magway 505-a Swe trar, Technolog- Region ical University, 8 Dr May Yu Lecturer, Myit- Myitkyina, 505-a Pyay Aung kyina University, Kachin State Myitkyina 3 Dr Aung Associate Pro- Myitkyina, 505-a Naing Thu fessor, Myitkyina Kachin State University, Myit- 9 U Yan Myo Lecturer, Myit- Myitkyina, 505-a kyina Naing kyina University, Kachin State Myitkyina 4 Dr San Moe Associate Pro- Myitkyina, 505-a San fessor, Myitkyina Kachin State University, Myit- 10 U Win Min Lecturer, Tech- Mawlamyine, 505-a kyina Tun nological Univer- Mon State sity, Mawlamyine 5 Dr Kyaw Lecturer, Bago Bago, Bago 505-a Naing Oo University, Bago Region As tasks are being carried out to arrest those education staff charged, people are urged to inform nearby police stations about those education staff, action will be taken against the persons under the law for admitting those education staff. — MNA 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR PANDEMIC: WORLD 11

NEWS IN BRIEF Germany re-classifies UK as Covid ‘risk’ Australia calls for area over Indian variant empowering WHO GERMANY’S health agency on strain and has been classified by after Covid panel Friday re-classified Britain as the World Health Organization as a coronavirus “risk area” over a “variant of concern”. concerns about the spread of the The British government AUSTRALIA called Thursday Indian Covid-19 variant there, on Friday said the variant was for the World Health Organiza- but travellers will still be able to spreading “increasing rapidly” in tion to be given greater pow- avoid quarantine under updated parts of England, with identified ers to investigate outbreaks rules. cases doubling from 520 last week after an independent panel The move by Germany’s to 1,313 this week. found dithering and poor Robert Koch Institute puts Great Germany this week eased coordination when Covid-19 Britain and Northern Ireland rules for travellers coming from emerged in China. back in the lowest-level risk cat- “risk areas”, the lowest of three Australia has been in the egory, barely a month after they risk levels, allowing unvaccinated firing line from China, its larg- were taken off the list following a people to avoid the previous 10- est trading partner, over steps decline in new infections thanks day quarantine if they can show including backing US-led to widespread vaccinations. a negative test. Those who are calls for a probe into Covid’s “The classification is due, Patients register before getting their vaccination against Covid-19 at fully vaccinated or can prove they origins, with Beijing impos- despite (a low incidence rate), the vaccination centre installed at the congress centre in Wiesbaden, have recovered from Covid by western Germany, on January 19, 2021. PHOTO: AFP/ARNE DEDERT ing tariffs on key products to the at least a limited occur- showing a positive PCR test that including wine and cutting off rence of the B.1.617.2 variant in said in a statement. hard-hit India, is believed to be is at least 28 days old, do not need diplomatic and trade talks. the United Kingdom,” the RKI The variant, first detected in more contagious than the original to quarantine. — AFP On a visit to Washington, Foreign Minister Marise Payne praised recommendations of a panel report released Wednes- Don’t vaccinate kids, but give doses to Covax: WHO chief day and said, “We absolutely support those being taken outrage that a number of rich now being vaccinated. very seriously.” — AFP countries were now vaccinating “I understand why some children and teenagers, while countries want to vaccinate poorer states had barely begun their children and adolescents, Denmark incinerates vaccinating health workers and but right now I urge them to re- minks culled over the most vulnerable groups. consider and to instead donate virus fears Instead of offering jabs vaccines to Covax.” to young and healthy people, “Because in low and low- he called on countries to give er-middle income countries, DENMARK on Thursday their doses to the Covax glob- Covid-19 vaccine supply has not kicked off the grisly task of al vaccine-sharing scheme and been enough to even immunize unearthing and incinerating thereby ensure that those most healthcare workers, and hospi- minks that were hastily buried in need in all countries receive tals are being inundated with after a mass culling sparked by protection. people that need lifesaving care fears of a mutated coronavirus The WHO urged wealthy countries Friday to stop vaccinating children “In January, I spoke about urgently.” Nearly 1.4 billion doses strain, authorities said. against Covid-19 and instead donate doses to poorer nations, while the potential unfolding of a mor- of Covid-19 vaccines have been All 15 million of Den- warning that the pandemic’s second year looked set to be more al catastrophe,” he told a press injected in at least 210 territories mark’s minks were killed last deadly. PHOTO: AFP conference. around the world, according to year after it emerged they THE WHO urged wealthy coun- pandemic’s second year looked “Unfortunately, we’re now an AFP count. Some 44 per cent were carrying a virus strain tries Friday to stop vaccinating set to be more deadly. witnessing this play out. In a of the doses have been adminis- that experts feared could avert children against Covid-19 and World Health Organiza- handful of rich countries, which tered in high-income countries vaccines. instead donate doses to poorer tion director-general Tedros bought up the majority of the accounting for 16 percent of the Some were buried in nations, while warning that the Adhanom Ghebreyesus voiced supply, lower-risk groups are global population. — AFP November in two mass graves in west Denmark, sparking fears that their decomposing carcasses could pollute sur- Singapore tightens virus curbs after infections spike rounding areas. The government called SINGAPORE announced a ban among people working there. on them to be dug up and on dine-ins and cut group sizes to Starting on Sunday, group incinerated once the risk of two people on Friday as it further sizes in public or when visiting contagion had subsided. toughened virus curbs to stem a homes will be restricted to two On Thursday, teams rise in local transmissions. people, down from the currently started digging up some of After a partial lockdown and allowed five. the 13,000 tonnes (29 million a rigorous regime of testing and Dining in at restaurants will pounds) of mink carcasses contact tracing, Covid-19 had be banned, and all employees due to be unearthed, which almost disappeared in the city- who can work from home must were then transported to state, with authorities reporting do so, officials said in a news the nearby Maabjerg Energy hardly any local transmission in conference. Center (MEC) for incineration. recent months. The measures, which will be “I am relieved to see But over the last few weeks in place until June 13, resemble how the whole thing is going cases have risen, with officials those imposed during a partial Passengers arrive at the departure hall of Changi International Airport according to plan,” agriculture announcing several new clusters lockdown last year during which in Singapore on June 8, 2020, as Singapore prepares to reopen its minister Rasmus Prehn said in -- including one at the airport the economy suffered its worst borders after shutting them to curb the spread of the COVID-19 novel a post to Twitter. — AFP comprised of 46 cases, mostly ever recession. — AFP coronavirus. PHOTO: AFP 16 MAY 2021 12 SOCIETY THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Blinken to seek Arctic cooperation in Greenland NEWS IN BRIEF wanted to buy the vast island. The top US diplomat will Ivory Coast PM meet Greenland’s full leadership returns home after on the stop Thursday in Kanger- medical treatment lussuaq, the sparsely populated island’s main transport hub. in France “They will discuss the strong partnership between the United IVORY Coast’s Prime Minister States and Greenland and our Patrick Achi returned home shared commitment to increase on Friday after receiving cooperation in the Arctic,” State medical treatment in France Department spokesman Ned for four days, appearing on Price said in a statement. television to say he felt “on In Copenhagen, Blinken top form”. will meet Prime Minister Mette “I feel very well. I’ve Frederiksen and other Danish returned on top form to get leaders as well as businesspeo- back to work,” 65-year-old Colourful houses in Kulusuk (also spelled Qulusuk), a settlement in the Sermersooq municipality located on ple on issues including “combat- Achi told public broadcaster the island of the same name on the southeastern shore of Greenland. PHOTO: AFP ing the climate crisis,” including RTI at Abidjan airport, where US Secretary of State Antony The trip will come on the between the two powers. the development of new tech- he was welcomed by a dele- Blinken will visit Greenland next heels of his already announced Blinken will start the trip nologies, Price said. Climate gation of ministers. week to seek cooperation as cli- visit to Iceland for an Arctic Sunday in Denmark, of which change has quickly opened up Political sources said mate change rapidly transforms Council meeting where Blinken Greenland is an autonomous ter- once unpenetrable waterways in Thursday that Achi had been the Arctic, expanding roles for will hold his first meeting with ritory, two years after an unusual the Arctic, paving the way both taken to France on a special China and Russia, the State De- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei but bitter row when then-pres- for shipping and greater conflict flight a few days beforehand partment said Friday. Lavrov amid a range of tension ident Donald Trump said he among major powers. — AFP after suffering intestinal bleeding. Achi, a veteran govern- Moderate conservative Larijani bids for Iran presidential race ment figure close to Presi- dent Alassane Ouattara, is the IRAN’S former parliament negotiations with the West, a post West African country’s third speaker Ali Larijani, a moderate he resigned from two years later prime minister in the past conservative and a supporter of over serious disagreements with year after his two predeces- Tehran’s nuclear deal with world Ahmadinejad. sors died. — AFP powers, submitted his candidacy He then went on to be par- Saturday for next month’s pres- liament speaker from 2008 to idential election. 2020, and currently serves as an Russia lists US, Larijani, 63, waited until the advisor to the supreme leader Czech Republic as last day to register at the interior Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. ‘unfriendly states’ ministry after intense speculation Larijani proved to be one of in the media. the key allies of the incumbent This is his second run for President Hassan Rouhani, a RUSSIA on Friday formally the presidency. He ran in 2005, moderate elected on a platform designated the United States which saw a surprise victory by of ending Iran’s international Iran’s former parliament speaker Ali Larijani raises his passport as he and the Czech Republic as the ultraconservative Mahmoud isolation by reaching the nucle- registers his candidacy for Iran’s presidential elections. PHOTO: AFP “unfriendly states” amid the Ahmadinejad -- who is now run- ar agreement in 2015. Rouhani president Donald Trump uni- revive it.The accord has been a biggest crisis in ties between ning again as well. is constitutionally barred from laterally withdrew Washington constant target of criticism by Moscow and Washington in Larijani, seen as a promi- running for a third consecutive from it and reimposed punishing Rouhani’s opponents, and its fate years. nent establishment figure, was term. The nuclear deal has been sanctions on Tehran, and ongoing is expected to one of the major The Russian government then in charge of Iran’s nuclear on life-support since former US talks in Vienna are seeking to stakes in the 2021 poll. — AFP released a decree signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin that was accompa- nied by a list of “unfriendly Two tornadoes strike China, killing at least 12 states” that “have carried out unfriendly actions” against TWO tornadoes that struck struction cranes, one of which Russia, Russian nationals or central and eastern China toppled onto the site below, Russian entities. killed at least 12 people and causing significant damage. The list now includes the injured more than 400, author- In Suzhou, near Shanghai, US and the Czech Republic. ities said Saturday. another tornado with winds of The Czech embassy will Violent winds of more than more than 200 kilometres per be allowed to employ no 260 kilometres per hour (160 hour wreaked havoc. more than 19 Russian nation- miles per hour) blasted the Four people were killed als and the US embassy none central city of Wuhan on Fri- and one remains missing, ac- at all, Moscow said. day night. cording to local authorities. Kremlin spokesman Eight people died and Images shared on social Dmitry Peskov said on Friday more than 280 were injured media showed a black whirl- that Moscow remained there, authorities said, adding wind which left a trail of de- ready for dialogue, state that around 30 homes had col- struction. news agency TASS reported, lapsed. A tornado packing winds of more than 260 kph (160 mph) hit Wuhan, In May, a windstorm stressing the fact that Russia leaving eight dead and hundreds injured. PHOTO: AFP Vehicles were crushed by caused the deaths of 11 people had now only two nations on falling objects, trees uprooted, and electricity pylons felled, homes without power. in a different town also close to its “unfriendly states” list. — buildings partially destroyed leaving more than 26,000 The gale damaged two con- Shanghai. — AFP AFP 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR BIZ: WORLD/AD 13 Chip crunch to reduce Mazda global output by 100,000 units in FY 2021 MAZDA Motor Corp. cles, Mazda expects an Nissan Motor Co. and said Friday it expects output cut of 14,000 vehi- Mitsubishi Motors Corp. chip shortages to reduce cles in April and 10,000 in to project lower production its global production by May, following a combined volumes due to the chip 100,000 vehicles in the cur- production cut of 10,000 supply bottleneck. rent fiscal year, equivalent vehicles in the final two The auto industry is to 8 per cent of last year’s months of the last fiscal grappling with a shortage output. year. of semiconductors as the Nevertheless, the car- The automaker did pandemic boosted demand maker plans to limit the not disclose its production for products that use them, reduction in shipments in plan for the current busi- ranging from laptops and the year through March ness year but plans to ship game consoles. The sit- 2022 to 70,000 vehicles by 1.14 million vehicles world- uation was worsened by making use of inventories, wide. It built 1.17 million widespread chip-manufac- Managing Executive Of- vehicles in the year ended turing disruptions in Texas ficer Tetsuya Fujimoto said March 31. due to the severe weather in a telephone conference The automaker based in February and a fire at a on the automaker’s latest in Hiroshima Prefecture chip plant of Japan’s Re- earnings. is the latest in a line of nesas Electronics Corp. in A production line at Mazda Motor Corp.’s plant in Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is seen in Of the 100,000 vehi- domestic peers such as March. — Kyodo News May 2018. PHOTO: KYODO

Walmart to end mask US industrial output rises slowly in April: Fed mandate for vaccinated US industrial production creased 0.7 per cent the Fed said. shutdown plants amid a shoppers, staff rose in April but was last month compared to The report said in worldwide shortage of held back by falling auto March, in line with ex- many industries “results computer chips. manufacturing amid the pectations, as manufac- were mixed, with supply Oren Klachkin of Ox- sector’s crippling semi- turing gained a modest chain difficulties possibly ford Economics blamed conductor shortage, the 0.4 per cent -- held back hindering production.” the slowing on the supply Federal Reserve said by a 4.3 per cent drop in Automakers have bottlenecks, but was not Friday. motor vehicles and parts, been forced to slow or overly concerned. The total is far above “While supply chain the same month of 2020, and labor shortages will when the economy was temporarily increase largely shut down due to production and inflation the Covid-19 pandemic, pressures, they won’t but the data reflect some completely derail the of the bottlenecks busi- expansion,” he said in nesses have reported as an analysis of the data. Walmart is one of the first major US corporations to end its they struggle to return The report said util- mask-wearing requirement. PHOTO: AFP to normal. ities rose 2.6 per cent in US retail giant Walmart on jab. “These are positive The data also re- April, recovering some Friday said customers who developments. We can do vised March’s increase of the nine per cent are fully vaccinated against this. We’ve been through to a 2.4 per cent gain, one drop in the prior month Covid-19 no longer have to a lot this year, and now percentage point higher “when unseasonably wear masks in their stores, we need to do our part to than originally reported, warm weather reduced and staff can do the same finish this,” Walmart said according to the report. Motor vehicle production fell in the United States, hindered demand for heating.” — starting next week. in a statement signed by Total output in- by a shortage of computer chips. PHOTO: AFP AFP “Beginning today, corporate leadership. vaccinated customers and The announcement members are welcome to follows the Centres for Dis- shop without a mask, and ease Control and Preven- CLAIMS DAY NOTICE CLAIMS DAY NOTICE we will continue to request tion’s lifting on Thursday M.V AEGEAN EXPRESS VOY. NO. (210N/S) M.V KOTA HALUS VOY. NO. (KHLT017N/S) that non-vaccinated cus- of mask-wearing guidance Consignees of cargo carried on M.V AEGEAN Consignees of cargo carried on M.V KOTA HALUS tomers and members wear for people who are fully vac- EXPRESS VOY. NO. (210N/S) are hereby notified that VOY. NO. (KHLT017N/S) are hereby notified that the face coverings in our stores cinated against Covid-19, a the vessel will be arriving on 16-5-2021 and cargo will vessel will be arriving on 16-5-2021 and cargo will be and clubs,” the company decision that came over a be discharged into the premises of MIP where it will lie discharged into the premises of AWPT where it will lie said in a statement, while year after it was first issued at the consignee’s risk and expenses and subject to the at the consignee’s risk and expenses and subject to the byelaws and conditions of the Port of Yangon. byelaws and conditions of the Port of Yangon. adding that masks would at the beginning of the pan- Damaged cargo will be surveyed daily from 8 am Damaged cargo will be surveyed daily from 8 am still be required where demic that has killed more to 11:20 am and 12 noon to 4 pm to Claim’s Day now to 11:20 am and 12 noon to 4 pm to Claim’s Day now mandated by local author- than 585,000 people in the declared as the third day after final discharge of cargo declared as the third day after final discharge of cargo ities. Employees who are United States. from the Vessel. from the Vessel. more than two weeks past Walmart mandat- No claims against this vessel will be admitted after No claims against this vessel will be admitted after the Claims Day. the Claims Day. their vaccination can stop ed customers wear face Phone No: 2301185 Phone No: 2301185 wearing masks from May masks starting last July, Shipping Agency Department Shipping Agency Department 18, the company said, and and is now among the first Myanma Port Authority Myanma Port Authority all employees are eligi- major American corpora- Agent For: Agent For: ble for a $75 bonus if they tions to end the require- M/S CONTINENTAL SHIPPING LINES M/S ADVANCE CONTAINER LINES prove they have got their ment. — AFP 16 MAY 2021 14 ECON: WORLD THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Russian oil giant Rosneft back in black as prices recover

RUSSIAN oil giant Rosneft said the coronavirus pandemic last Friday that its earnings were year, with demand hammered back in the black in the first as many countries shut down quarter after oil prices recov- swathes of their economies in ered following Moscow’s pro- a bid to slow the spread of Cov- duction deals with OPEC. id-19. State-controlled Rosneft That caused a glut in sup- reported a net profit of 149 bil- plies and a plunge in prices that lion rubles ($2 billion) in the first briefly saw some turn negative. quarter, compared with a loss Russia and other major pro- of 156 billion rubles in the same ducers joined with the Organiza- period last year. tion of the Petroleum Exporting It is the latest major oil Countries (OPEC) in agreeing a company to report a spike in series of production limits that quarterly profits thanks to rising helped prop up prices. crude prices. In recent months prices Global oil prices, already have returned to pre-pandemic low amid growing competition, levels, hovering around $65 per Rosneft chief Igor Sechin meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin. PHOTO: AFP were hit hard by the onset of barrel. — AFP Expect ‘choppiness’ in US economic recovery: luxury goods can now be White House sold in fractions EXPECT “choppiness” in the their coronavirus masks sud- ures showing a leap in consum- US economic recovery as dif- denly means “we now anticipate er prices, as well as last week’s ferent sectors bounce back at an oversupply of masks and an hugely disappointing employ- varying speeds, but inflation will undersupply of lipstick.” ment data, need to be seen in not be a longterm problem, a top “In all seriousness, different context. White House official said Friday. sectors of the economy will come An average of half a million Cecilia Rouse, chair of the back online at different times,” jobs have been created every Council of Economic Advisers, she told reporters. “Given the month since January, she said, said the current turbulence is extraordinary and unprecedent- while the inflation figures reflect- unpredictable. ed circumstances of the pan- ed wild, yet temporary swings in For example, she joked, the demic, it will remain difficult for economic activity as Americans government health authority’s analysts to accurately forecast emerge from partial lockdowns ruling on Thursday that vacci- economic data.” -- particularly a return to air trav- nated people can safely drop Rouse said this week’s fig- el and buying cars. — AFP

A 1986 Ferrari Testarossa Spider Valeo, a luxury items which could be hypothetically ‘owned’ through fractional ownership. PHOTO: AFP

As Covid ebbs, tourists make their ANYONE can easily own a CEO of Collectable, a platform Basquiat painting, a pair of Yeezy that specializes in sports para- comeback to US capital sneakers or even a Ferrari – at phernalia. least, that’s the promise of a “It’s not like cryptocurren- WITH the park in front of the The question now is how to shop is parked near the African growing number of fractional cies where it was literally invent- White House reopening this attract more tourists and spur American museum. ownership platforms that sell ed five or 10 years ago,” he said. week, selfie-snapping tourists an economic rebound after a So far, DC residents, who shares of these rare items, start- “It’s just that the ways that have suddenly reappeared. year of pandemic restrictions are packing the terraces of ing at just a few dollars. people can participate in (the Washington DC, home to that left the US federal capital restaurants and bars, haven’t One platform, Masterworks, market) and experience it, en- some of the toughest anti-Cov- city, normally a hub for confer- rushed downtown to peruse in spring 2020 turned the $6 joy it, have just dramatically id regulations in the country, is ences and meetings of interna- Phung’s selection of caps, million painting The Mosque by changed in the last six months.” now reopening, highlighting the tional institutions, stricken. T-shirts and other trinkets. Jean-Michel Basquiat into Slugger, the username of a United States’s steady transition “For the moment, I have Instead the shopkeeper relies 284,420 shares at $20 each. collector who preferred to stay back to normality. very few customers,” said Ngre heavily on visitors to nearby With fractional ownership, anonymous, made a 500 per cent Boasting imposing land- Phung, whose mobile souvenir museums. — AFP there’s no chance of hanging profit on a few shares of a box of marks such as the US Capitol and the painting in a buyer’s home, Pokemon cards, initially priced the Supreme Court, Washington parking a Lamborghini in their at $125,000. The platform Rally began reopening the doors of its garage or storing six bottles of had offered the box via an IPO, museums on Friday, including Romanee-Conti wine in their similar to the listing of a com- the National Museum of African cellar. pany on the stock market and American History and Culture, But by owning at least a also subject to controls by the and the National Portrait Gallery, piece of the property – at least US market regulator, the SEC. which will soon host a painting of on paper, like the shares of a pub- “These fractional platforms former president Donald Trump. licly listed company – anyone just open up the class to people By next Friday, six museums can now directly benefit from an who can’t afford to buy a full (Mi- run by the famed Smithsonian increase in the item’s value, just chael) Jordan (trading) card,” Institution, and the National Zoo, like a wealthy collector. said John Schuck, 43, whose will once again welcome visitors Whether it’s paintings or holdings amount to about $20,000 as vaccination rates climb and Tourists visit the National Mall in Washington, D.C. on May 14, 2021, baseball cards, “it’s not a new in cars, paintings or sports mem- infections continue to plunge. which includes the Washington Monument obelisk. PHOTO: AFP industry”, says Ezra Levine, the orabilia. — AFP 16 MAY 2021 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR GLOBAL AFFAIRS 15

NEWS Israel escalation puts new Gulf partners IN BRIEF in diplomatic bind Armenia asks Putin for military support THE deadly escalation between after Azerbaijan Israel and the Palestinians has embarrassed Gulf states which ‘infiltration’ forged ties with the Jewish state and put a strain on their Abra- ARMENIAN Prime Minister ham Accords that were billed as Nikol Pashinyan said Friday a game-changer. he asked Russian President The bloodshed has prompt- Vladimir Putin for military ed condemnation from Israel’s support after accusing Azer- new Arab partners, at a time baijani troops of crossing the when Muslims have been cele- country’s southern border and brating the end of the holy month trying to claim territory. of Ramadan. The United States urged Less than a year after sign- an immediate pullback by ing normalisation agreements Azerbaijan amid mounting in- with Israel, the United Arab ternational concern after last Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, Sudan year’s war between the arch and Morocco have been forced foes over the disputed region to change course and turn to of Nagorno-Karabakh. critical rhetoric. Speaking at an extraor- “These statements are (L-R) The leaders of Bahrain, Israel and the UAE with then US president Donald Trump after the signing of the dinary session of Armenia’s largely intended as a public rela- Abraham Accords. PHOTO: AFP parliament on Friday evening, tions exercise towards a domes- Crisis Group think tank, told AFP. who feared they undercut their a new Middle East” as his son-in- Pashinyan said he had asked tic and regional Arab audience The Abraham Accords demands for a homeland. law and advisor Jared Kushner Putin “for the Russian Feder- that continues to overwhelm- swept away decades of consen- They were struck at the urg- dismissed the Israeli-Palestinian ation’s assistance, including ingly support the Palestinians,” sus and were condemned as ing of then US president Donald conflict as a mere “real estate military assistance.” Elham Fakhro, an analyst at the “treason” by Palestinian leaders Trump, who hailed the “dawn of dispute”.— AFP He also said that French President Emmanuel Macron “is considering the possibility of putting the issue on the Italy’s Salvini avoids trial in one of two migrant cases agenda of the UN Security Council.” — AFP legal troubles even as another been defending the country while related case looms. carrying out his so-called “closed Judge Nunzio Sarpietro in ports” policy amid a surge of mi- West Bank violence, the Sicilian city of Catania threw grants arriving on Italy’s shores Gaza air strikes out the case against the populist after crossing the Mediterrane- as Palestinian toll head of the League party, follow- an. ing recommendations in April by Italy’s Senate voted last year mounts the prosecutor that he should not to strip the politician of his par- be tried. liamentary immunity, paving the MORE than 300 people Salvini, known for an “Ital- way for the trial. were wounded Monday in ians first” policy, was accused of After leaving court, Salvini renewed clashes between abusing his powers in July 2019 said the ruling shows that “a min- Palestinians and Israeli po- when he was interior minister ister who defended the dignity lice at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa by blocking 116 migrants from and the borders of Italy is a min- mosque compound, as an Salvini’s party takes a hard line on migrants. PHOTO: AFP/FILE disembarking from the Italian ister who simply did his duty”. Israeli celebration of its 1967 Gregoretti coastguard boat. However, he still faces trial takeover of Jerusalem risked ITALIAN far-right leader Matteo on charges he illegally detained Salvini had staunchly de- in September in a separate but inflaming tensions. Salvini avoided trial on Friday migrants at sea, ending one of his fended himself, saying he had similar case. — AFP Israeli fighter jets hit targets in central Gaza over- night, the army said Satur- Venezuela paper seized in defamation case filed by top leader day, after a day of deadly vi- olence rocked the West Bank VENEZUELAN authorities on preme Court of Justice ordered and unprecedented unrest Friday seized the headquar- the daily to pay $13.4 million for persisted inside Israel. ters of a newspaper critical of causing “serious moral damage” Despite intensifying President Nicolas Maduro’s gov- to Diosdado Cabello, the second diplomatic efforts to ease ernment, to cover $13 million in most powerful person in Vene- five days of fighting be- compensation that a court had zuela after Maduro. tween Israel and Palestinian ordered it to pay a top official in “The process of paying the militants in Gaza, Israel’s air a defamation case. compensation has begun,” Ca- force struck several sites in “At this very moment, a bello said on Twitter. the strip overnight, while judge surrounded by national In 2015, Cabello, second in rockets again tore towards guards entered the building of command of the governing So- the Jewish state. El Nacional to seize everything,” cialist Party, took the newspaper Overall Palestinian fa- tweeted newspaper presi- to court for reproducing a report talities from strikes on Gaza dent-director Miguel Henrique by Spanish newspaper ABC that A woman holds up the final printed edition of El Nacional on December have reached 126 -- includ- Otero. accused him of links to drug traf- 14, 2018, with its front page reading “El Nacional is a warrior and will ing 31 children -- with 950 In April, Venezuela’s Su- ficking. — AFP keep on fighting”. PHOTO: AFP/FILE injured. — AFP 16 MAY 2021 16 SPORT THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Arjan Bhullar bags ONE Heavyweight belt with TKO win over Brandon Vera

INDIAN Mixed Martial Arts fighter Arjan Bhullar After the win, Bhullar has expressed his over- crowned the ONE Championship Heavyweight whelmed feeling upon the special fight. world title yesterday night after beating former “India, we got one now,” Bhullar said. “Your titleholder Brandon Vera of the Philippines via first world champion. Let’s go.” Technical Knockout (TKO) at round two of the main “We were going to box him up, get in and out event fight named ONE: DANGAL at Singapore range, wrestle him, pressure him, break him. That Indoor Stadium. was the game plan,” he continued. “I knew I was Brandon Vera relied on stand fight while Arjan going to hurt him. My coaches knew it. I’m well Bhullar used a mixed fight style of ground and stand. trained, guys. I’ve been with the best since day one.” Round one just finished with equal play as both “I have reached the pinnacle of this sport,” fighters took too much time to reach their targets. Bhullar said. “Now, I wanna attack the pro-wrestling But the round two saw more energetic efforts industry. AWE, WWE, I’m coming for you guys next. of the Indian fighter Arjan Bhullar. Consider this a warning”, the Indian fighter added. Just before the end of round two, Arjan Bhullar Next, the co-main event featured a Muay Thai landed some strong punches on Brandon Vera, and fight between Tawanchai PK Saenchai and Sean Indian MMA fighter Arjan Bhullar seen with ONE Heavyweight World that caused Vera to fall onto the ground and lost Clancy. Saenchai delivered a super head kick knock- Championship belt after his thrilling fight against Vera in Singapore on with a technical knockout. out in the third round. —GNLM 15 May. PHOTO: ONE CHAMPIONSHIP

Leicester beat Chelsea to claim first FA Cup ‘On this train until Mason Mount late on and Chel- sea also had a goal ruled out by Wimbledon,’ says Federer a VAR review for offside. Five years after the Foxes as Swiss legend returns stunned the Premier League’s ROGER Federer resumes test of how I was doing,” 20- giants to become champions, his injury comeback on Swiss time Grand Slam title winner Leicester have now claimed home soil in Geneva next Federer told Leman Bleu tel- English football’s other pres- week with the 39-year-old evision. tigious trophy at the fifth time legend insisting: “We’re on “Geneva is more than of asking. this train until Wimbledon”. just a little test, to see if I Four times they had previ- Federer returned to the can play several matches in ously lost the final, but the last courts in March, having been a row. of those was 52 years ago. out for more than a year fol- I know the danger of los- A historic week for Brendan lowing two knee surgeries, ing early is always there.” Rodgers’s men could get even winning his first match in Qa- Geneva should test what better as they are on the verge tar before losing his second. sort of shape Federer is in Leicester City’s English-born Jamaican defender Wes Morgan (L) and Leicester City’s Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel (L) hold up the of sealing a place in next sea- Doha was his first ap- ahead of the May 30-June winner’s trophy as the Leicester players celebrate victory after the son’s Champions League. pearance since January 13 French Open before he English FA Cup final football match between Chelsea and Leicester City The sides meet again in 2020 and an Australian Open targets his two major goals at Wembley Stadium in north west London on 15 May 2021. PHOTO : three days’ time at Stamford semi-final defeat to Novak — a ninth Wimbledon title AFP Bridge in a pivotal clash to Djokovic. and a singles gold medal at LEICESTER won the FA Cup the coronavirus pandemic hit decide who secures a top-four Federer was due to play the Tokyo Olympics. for the first time in the club’s 14 months ago were treated to finish in the Premier League. in the May 2-9 Madrid Open, “He is not coming to say 137-year history on Saturday as a goal worthy to win any tro- Chelsea need a quick re- but made a late decision hello,” Geneva tournament Youri Tielemans’s sensational phy as the Belgian midfielder sponse after losing for just the to switch to the lower-pro- director Thierry Grin told the strike beat Chelsea 1-0 in front blasted into the top corner on fourth time in 27 games since file Geneva event where he Swiss magazine L’Illustre. of 22,000 fans at Wembley. 63 minutes. Thomas Tuchel replaced the should have a better chance “He is coming to win The largest crowd for a Kasper Schmeichel pro- sacked Frank Lampard in Jan- of getting on a roll. matches before his big goal: sports event in England since duced a stunning save to deny uary. — AFP “Doha was just a little Wimbledon.” — AFP ‘Dangerous’ McIlroy at Kiawah seeking first major since ‘14 RORY MCILROY arrives at the 103rd PGA Cham- the 2019 WGC Shanghai event. McIlroy won a third pionship seeking his first major triumph since career victory at Quail Hollow and his first since 2014 after snapping an 18-month US PGA Tour becoming a father, wife Erica having given birth win drought last week. And it won’t hurt that the to daughter Poppy last year. four-time major winner from Northern Ireland is “He’s coming off a win,” 2015 PGA winner Jason returning to Kiawah Island, where he won the 2012 Day of Australia said. “He’s very confident right PGA by a record-setting eight-stroke margin. now, so going to be very dangerous.” “Hopefully history repeats itself,” McIlroy said. Nobody recognizes that fact more than McIlroy, “But I’m just happy that I can hit the golf shots I who is encouraged and confident after seeing hard need to under pressure. “You just need to get your- work with new coach Pete Cowen pay off. self in the position to put yourself under pressure “This victory is very important going into to hit the shots that really matter.” Kiawah,” he said. “I played really well there last After struggling through the Covid-19 pan- time. I’ll go up there and try to do my homework Four-time major winner Rory McIlroy celebrates his PGA victory at demic while playing without spectators, McIlroy and re-familiarize myself with the layout a little Quail Hollow with his wife Erica and their daughter Poppy on May has found his form and won for the first time since bit. — AFP 9. PHOTO: AFP