PRESIDENTIAL PARDON GIVEN TO 8,490 PRISONERS P-4 (LOCAL NEWS)

Vol. V, No. 2, 4th Waxing of Kason 1380 ME www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com Wednesday, 18 April 2018

Republic of the Union of Myanmar Myanmar New Year Greetings of President U Win Myint (ME 1380, 1ST Day of New Year)

Dear esteemed citizens, on this auspicious occasion I will present an explanation to our esteemed citizens. active service, there are some who do not have proper of the New Year, I send you all, greetings and good In our efforts to tighten management controls over housing. I have also noticed that a great number of civil wishes to be blessed with good health and happiness. departments that are lagging behind in reform, these service personnel after retirement are suffering greatly departments will have to implement the development because they do not have housing. That is why our Union Dear esteemed citizens, policies of our Union Government in accordance with Government will work hard on a priority basis so that The priority goals of our Union Government have priority. Out of the three basic needs of our citizens civil service personnel will have at least a house or an already been declared on 30th March, the day on which which are “food, clothing and shelter”, it has been found apartment and live in dignity by the time they retire. I took my oath of office as President. On this matter, I that housing for the people is a vital need. We have also During the two year term of our Union Government, have heard that the expectations of our citizens have noticed the sufferings of our people who have to live in we have already built (4627) housing units for public become high and they are also quite eager to know make-shift shelters because they do not have a place to service personnel in States and Regions. how these goals would be met. At this opportune time live. Among our civil service personnel who are still in SEE PAGE-5

New Year Paritta Recitation Ceremony held The Paritta Recitation Ceremony for the 1380 Myanmar Era was held at Ngushwewar Hall of the Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning. President U Win Myint, First Lady Daw Cho Cho and State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi were present at the event to listen to the Paritta recitation. PHOTO: MNA (ARTICLE ON PAGE-3) 18 APRIL 2018 2 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Pyithu Hluttaw holds Paritta reciting ceremony

A PARITTA reciting ceremony At the ceremony, Pyithu was held at the meeting hall of Hluttaw Speaker U T Khun the Pyithu Hluttaw building C, Myat attended the ceremony. Nay Pyi Taw, in the afternoon The congregation first received on Myanmar’s New Year day of the five precepts administered 1380 ME. by the Sayadaw. Later, the Sang- Members of the Sangha, led has led by the Sayadaw recited by Sayadaw Bhaddanta Tejobha- the Parittas. The congregation attend the Paritta reciting ceremony at Pyithu Hluttaw Office. PHOTO: MNA sa of Yazathari Tharmanaykyaw Following this, the audience Monastery, Ottarathiri Town- donated alms and offertories to Also present at the New taw were Pyithu Hluttaw Deputy Hluttaw office and their family ship, Nay Pyi Taw, attended the the monks and shared the merit Year Paritta reciting ceremony Speaker U Tun Aung @ U Tun members.— Myanmar News ceremony to recite the Paritta. gained. organised by the Pyithu Hlut- Tun Hein, staff of the Pyithu Agency Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker pays respects to elderly in Myawady

AMYOTHA Hluttaw Speaker ing provided to the elderly. Mahn Win Khaing Than who The Speaker then attended was in Kayin State, Myawady the ceremony to pay respects Town, attended a ceremony to the elderly and donated cash yesterday to release fish fin- and kind. gerlings as Jivitadana dona- On behalf of the elders, tion and later paid respects to 87-year-old U Tin Maung from the elderly. No. 2 Ward delivered the word The Myawady District Jiv- of thanks. itadana fish release ceremony Following this, the Amyo- was held in the morning near tha Hluttaw Speaker cordially Myanmar-Thai Friendship greeted the elderly. The day’s Bridge over the Thaungyin ceremony to pay respects River, during which the Amyo- was held for 202 persons aged tha Hluttaw Speaker and wife, above 85 in Myawady Town. the Hluttaw representatives, The Amyotha Hluttaw departmental officials, and Speaker and officials also at- religious and social organisa- tended a tree-planting cere- tions released fish fingerlings mony in the compound of Deik into the river. Htan Aung Pagoda in No. 3 Next, the Speaker and the Ward and planted several vari- delegation visited the Shwe eties of tree saplings, including Myin Won pagoda trustee of- teak, padauk and mahogany, fice in Myawady Town, where among others. — Myanmar Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker Mahn Win Khaing Than greeting elderly person aged above 85 in Myawady healthcare services were be- News Agency Township. PHOTO: MNA

Rakhine traditional ceremony to pay respects to elders held on 17 April

THE 54th all Sittway Rakhine Minister U Nyi Pu, minis- State. traditional ceremony of paying ters and other officials from The committee for the all respects to elders took place the department concerned paid Sittway Rakhine traditional at the U Oattama Hall, Sittway their respects to the elderly. ceremony of paying respects to Township, on 17 April. Next, U San Thar Maung, elders visited some 135 elderly The ceremony was jointly chairman of the organising com- people aged 80 and above in the organised by the committee mittee, explained the purpose of wards in Sittway town and paid for holding the Rakhine State the ceremony. their respects. traditional Thingyan festival The Chief Minister and Also Present at the cere- and the committee for holding other ministers, the members mony were State Chief Minis- the Sittway Rakhine traditional of the ceremony organising ter U Nyi Pu, State Ministers ceremony for paying respects committee and other donors and their wives, State Advocate to elders. distributed cash, medicines General, officials and members Rakhine State Chief Minister U Nyi Pu donates offertories to an elderly First, the congregation and other necessities to the of Rakhine Culture organisa- person at the 54th all Sittway Rakhine traditional ceremony to pay led by Rakhine State Chief elderly in each ward in Rakhine tions.—Tin Tun (IPRD) respects to elders in Sittway. PHOTO: MNA 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 3

We have much to carry on fulfilling the hopes and needs May we all be able to build the peaceful, of the people of the country. We must press on until our modern, prosperous and genuine citizens have their dignity raised and our country can retain its Democratic Federal Republic which is the dream of the fathers of our independence and former glory on the global stage. which is what our people desire. (Excerpt from the speech by President U Win Myint at the ceremony to take oath of office at Pyidaungsu Hluttaw on th30 March 2018) (Excerpt from the speech by State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi on the 2nd Anniversary of NLD Government on 1st April 2018)

President U Win Myint and First Lady Daw Cho Cho donating offertories to Sayadaw at the State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi donating offertories to Sayadaw at the Paritta Paritta recitation ceremony at Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw. PHOTO: MNA recitation ceremony at Presidential Palace in Nay Pyi Taw. PHOTO: MNA New Year Paritta Recitation Ceremony held at Presidential Palace

Vice President U Myint Swe and wife donating offertories to The Paritta Recitation aw officers from the Com- Kings, governments and presidents Sayadaw at the Paritta recitation ceremony at Presidential Ceremony for the 1380 mander-in-Chief’s office, Palace in Nay Pyi Taw. PHOTO: MNA Myanmar Era was held at must follow the 10 point Code of Deputy Ministers, invited Ngushwewar Hall of the Conduct for Kings. In short, it will help guests and other officials. Maha Withutayama Zay- ernment servants. If these Presidential Palace in Nay provide sufficient seeds to the farmers, President U Win My- gon Monastery Sayadaw three things are done, the Pyi Taw yesterday morn- provide capital to the merchants and int, First Lady Daw Cho Abhidhaja Maha Rattha country will develop. The ing. President U Win Myint, pay or provide regularly to government Cho, State Counsellor Daw Guru Bhaddanta Kavisara Sayadaw concluded his First Lady Daw Cho Cho servants. If these three things are done, Aung San Suu Kyi and the mentioned Pakokku Say- New Year sermon by urg- and State Counsellor Daw the country will develop. The Sayadaw guests in attendance took daw’s guidance on praying ing the audience to start Aung San Suu Kyi were concluded his New Year sermon by the Nine Precepts from the three times a day; in the with the three practices. present at the event to lis- urging the audience to start with the Pyinmana Maha Withutay- morning, noon and in the President U Win Myint, ten to the Paritta recitation. three practices. ama Zaygon Monastery evening. As such, all are First Lady Daw Cho Cho, Sanghas led by Pyin- Sayadaw. advised to pray and share State Counsellor Daw mana Maha Withutayama Next, the Sayadaw merit. Doing this reduces Aung San Suu Kyi and the Zaygon Monastery Sayad- Constitutional Tribunal of Speaker U Aye Tha Aung and sanghas recited the anger and without anger, audience listened to the aw Abhidhaja Maha Rattha the Union U Myo Nyunt and wife, other Union Min- Parittas and the President all can live, sleep, eat and sermon and then shared Guru Bhaddanta Kavisara and wife, Chairman of isters and their wives, the and his congregation lis- work well for the country, merits by pouring the wa- attended the ceremony and the Union Election Com- Union Attorney-General tened to the Parittas. The he said. ter of libation. recited the Parittas. mission U Hla Thein and and wife, Chairman of Un- President and wife, the Kings, governments After the ceremony, Also present at the wife, Deputy Command- ion Civil Service Board and State Counsellor and the and presidents must fol- President U Win Myint, ceremony were Vice er-in-Chief of Defence Ser- wife, Nay Pyi Taw Council congregation donated of- low the 10 point Code of First Lady Daw Cho Cho, President U Myint Swe vices Commander-in-Chief Chairman and wife, the fertories to the members Conduct for Kings. In State Counsellor Daw and wife, Speaker of the (Army) Vice-Senior Gener- Governor of the Central of the sangha. short, it will help provide Aung San Suu Kyi and the Pyithu Hluttaw U T Khun al Soe Win and wife, Pyithu Bank of Myanmar and In his sermon deliv- sufficient seeds to the audience offered meals Myat and wife, Chief Jus- Hluttaw Deputy Speaker wife, the Chief of General ered to the audience for farmers, provide capital to the members of the tice of the Union U Htun U Tun Tun Hein and wife, Staff (Army, Navy and Air) the offerings and dona- to the merchants and pay Sangha.—Myanmar News Htun Oo, Chairman of the Amyotha Hluttaw Deputy and wife, senior Tatmad- tions made, Pyinmana or provide regularly to gov- Agency 18 APRIL 2018 4 LOCAL NEWS THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com Merit makers throng pagodas in

ACTING CHIEF EDITOR Aye Min Soe, [email protected] Yangon on New Year’s Day [email protected]

EXPATRIATE CONSULTANT EDITOR By Yi Yi Myint & (patron) sayadaws and then Mark Angeles, markrangeles@gmail .com Ohnmar Thant shared merit by pouring water. At 8 a.m. at the Chanthargyi SENIOR EDITORIAL CONSULTANT TO celebrate the end of My- prayer hall in Rahu corner, the Kyaw Myaing anmar Era (ME) 1379 and the 32nd group blood donation cer- SENIOR TRANSLATORS start of 1380, merit makers emony was held. In the Maha Zaw Min, thronged famous pagodas in Wizaya Pagoda located at the [email protected] Win Ko Ko Aung, Yangon. foot of Shwedagon Pagoda, dev- [email protected] The Shwedagon Pagoda otees witnessed the sunrays trustee organised a donation shining directly on the Buddha INTERNATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Ye Htut Tin, of fruits, flowers, water, illu- image inside the pagoda ex- [email protected] minated oil lamps and scented actly at 8:35 a.m. and 3:25 p.m.

LOCAL NEWS EDITORS water at the platform of the on New Year’s Day. This event Tun Tun Naing (Editor), pagoda at 5 a.m. yesterday. At occurs twice a year only during [email protected] 5.30 a.m., the pagoda’s Ovada- this time on New Year’s Day. After celebrating the Thingyan festival, people pay a visit to pagodas to Nwe Nwe Tun (Sub-editor), [email protected] cariya (patron) sayadaws and People keeping the Sab- welcome in the New Year of ME 1380. PHOTO: MNA invited sanghas were provided bath, merit makers and food TRANSLATORS with breakfast “soon” at the donors were seen flocking to The reciting of Paritta hygiene of the elderly, paying Khaing Thanda Lwin, Hay Mar Tin Win, Yaungdawpwint prayer hall. At other famous pagodas of Yan- by sanghas in the wards and respects to the elders and the Ei Myat Mon 6 a.m. in the old Buddha images gon such as Sule Pagoda and streets of Yangon, organised Jivitadana donation of releasing Zaw Htet Oo prayer hall, the audience lis- Shwebonpwint Pagoda. Some by the locals staying there, was animals from harm or captivity Kyaw Zin Lin Kyaw Zin Tun tened to the recitation of Parit- private buses and cars provid- held, while other merit making was also observed at various ta by the pagoda’s Ovadacariya ed free transport to the people. such as caring for the personal locations. REPORTER May Thet Hnin, [email protected] [email protected] Presidential pardon given PHOTOGRAPHER Kyaw Zeya Win @ Phoe Khwar to 8,490 prisoners on COMPUTER TEAM Tun Zaw , Thein Ngwe, Zaw Zaw Aung, Myanmar New Year’s Day Ye Naing Soe, Nyi Zaw Moe, Hnin Pwint, Kay Khaing Win, Sanda Hnin Eight-thousand, four-hundred Among the 336 prisoners and ninety prisoners received who were released from Insein EDITORIAL SECTION presidential pardons yesterday, Prison were former members of (+95) (01)8604529, Fax — (+95) (01) 8604305 among them eight political pris- the police and Tatmadaw, drug oners and one foreign prisoner in traffickers, and eight political CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION Insein Prison in Yangon. prisoners included in the list of San Lwin, (+95) (01) 8604532, Hotline - 09 974424114 As a humanitarian gesture the Assistance Association for for the Myanmar New Year, Political Prisoners (AAPP). The ADVERTISING & MARKETING and for the peace of mind of the one foreigner released was from ( +95) (01) 8604530, Hotline - 09 974424848 people, 8,490 prisoners serving China, officials said. [email protected] jail terms in various correction- One of the released prison- [email protected] al facilities across the country ers expressed his hope that oth- 336 prisoners from the Insein Prison in Yangon were given amnesty Printed and published at the Global New were given unconditional am- ers would be as fortunate. yesterday. PHOTO: ZAW GYI Light of Myanmar Printing Factory at nesty today under Sub-section “I got the long jail term. I am No.150, Nga Htat Kyee Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon, by the Global New Light (1), Section 401 of the Criminal released today after staying in the and released”. 178 from Myeik Prison and Cor- of Myanmar Daily under Printing Permit No. Procedure Code, according to the prison for thirteen years,” said Among those receiving un- rectional Facility, 64 from Dawei 00510 and Publishing Permit No. 00629. presidential order released by the Saw Walay, “I hope the remaining conditional amnesty were 13 prison and 87 from Sittway pris- [email protected] Office of the President yesterday. prisoners would be scrutinised prisoners from Thaton prison, on.— Zaw Gyi www.globalnewlightofmyanmar.com www.facebook.com/ globalnewlightofmyanmar Crimes, accidents, fatalities and injuries during Thingyan Festival reduce this year

THE number of accidents and one injury, while in the Sagaing In the Mandalay region, there ries, while six cases in the Ay- crimes that occurred during the Region there were seven cases were 16 cases causing two eyawady Region resulted in two Write for us 2018 Thingyan Festival from 13 resulting in two deaths and 37 deaths and 16 injuries. In Mon deaths and four injuries.

We appreciate your feedback and to 16 April has reduced slightly injuries. State, there was one death and Although crimes and ac- contributions. If you have any comments this year. In the Taninthayi Region, 15 injuries caused by five cas- cidents occurred during the or would like to submit editorials, analyses or reports please email In Nay Pyi Taw union ter- there were four cases resulting es, while two cases in Rakhine Thingyan Festival, the authori- [email protected] ritory, eight cases resulted in in one death and four injuries. State resulted in four injuries. ties were able to reduce crimes with your name and title. Due to limitation of space we are only three deaths and two injuries. In the Bago Region, there were In the Yangon Region, there and accidents related to the able to publish “Letter to the Editor” In Kachin State, there were four five cases causing three deaths were nine cases causing three Thingyan Festival through en- that do not exceed 500 words. Should you submit a text longer than 500 words cases resulting in six deaths and and four injuries. In the Mag- deaths and 19 injuries. Three hanced security, compared to please be aware that your letter will be two injuries. In Kayin State, way Region, 14 cases resulted cases in Shan State resulted the past years. – Myanmar News edited. there was one case resulting in in two deaths and 22 injuries. in one death and seven inju- Agency 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 5

Myanmar New Year Greetings farmlands and garden lands which have been released are returned to their original owners. I will also work to ensure of President U Win Myint that in regard to confiscated farmlands and garden lands which have not yet been released, expeditious review is FROM PAGE-1 made by the various review committees in consultation In the remaining three years also, we have already with the States/Regional governments for the return of made arrangements to build more than (7000) housing these released lands to the original owners. units for civil service personnel. In the remanding three In working for uplifting of the socio-economic life of years, by extending this Programme, (10,000) housing farmers, I will work speedily and diligently for the farmers units will be built and sold for civil service personnel to to get land ownership certificates in the entire country be repaid in installments on a monthly basis. So that the within one year. I will also work to ensure that agricultural salary scales of clerical staff and officers are in accord loans are disbursed without delay in time for planting. with the minimum daily wage Ks. 4800 of a worker, Tax will not be collected on agricultural inputs such as the Union Government has already made calculations fertilizers, seeds, pesticides and agricultural implements. and drawn up plans to increase the salary scales of all Priority will be given to drinking water, agriculture, clerical staff by 20 per cent and that of all officers by 10 President U Win Myint. PHOTO: MNA electricity and roads. per cent. According to that calculation, the salary of a To improve the life of workers, in the short term, we lowest level clerical staff will increase from Ks. 120,000 to Dear esteemed citizens, will have to strive to manage the workers social security Ks. 138,000 and the highest salary scale of an officer will To intensify our efforts to protect against human fund effectively. To improve job opportunities within the increase from Ks. 500,000 to Ks. 550,000. Since the Union rights abuses, our Union Government will redouble our country, we will invite foreign investments. We will also Government has made these arrangements for civil efforts in cooperation with CBO’s (Community-based work to make sure that our workers in foreign countries service personnel, they should be reminded that they organizations) and CSO’s (Civil Society Organizations), are safe, and that they enjoy their rights. For this we will also need to reciprocate by participating in the reform the Media and the People. The Human Rights Commis- work with other countries based on bilateral agreements. programmes of the Union Government by cooperating sion should endeavor to provide protection to ensure To enable students to pursue higher learning, we will and accepting responsibilities. the legal basic rights of individuals, the fundamental work to raise the assistance provided. At the same time, The Ministry of Electricity and Energy will produce rights of citizens and the freedom and security of citizens we will focus and work towards having more students in 6000 MW in the coming three years by making an increase at interrogation centers, police station lock-ups, court the professional disciplines. Providing opportunities to of 3000 MW from the current 3000 MW in its effort to in- detention rooms, jails, and hard labor prisoner camps, students from low income families and poor families to crease electric power. In electric power distribution, in in fact, in all these places without discrimination. I have pursue higher education will soon become an important addition to the (230) KV line currently being used, another already met the Human Rights Commission members and policy for the State. We have to work to ensure that students (500) KV line will be added within the next three years. have given instructions to ensure that citizens do not lose with abilities get the opportunity to pursue the disciplines As for the Ministry of Construction, it will build (100) their inalienable rights, in other words their fundamental for which they qualify. To ensure they get the positions miles of new highways during the next year. From among rights. The organizations themselves which are working they deserve, we need to improve ways and means for the (200) miles of gravel roads, we will be turning these in the area of human rights should take extra care not to them to study abroad or at home. into tar roads or concrete roads. As for rural roads, we trample upon the fundamental rights and dignity of any will be building about (600) miles of new rural roads. individual and to act fairly in accordance with the law. Dear esteemed citizens, From among rural roads currently being used, we will To intensify our efforts to combat narcotic drugs, it In future years, our Union Government in its march be upgrading about (1000) miles of rural roads to tar or is necessary to focus our attention on the large operators for reform needs to begin at the base level which is closest concrete roads. For smooth transportation and the safety who are engaged in production, distribution and storage to the People, who are the original owners of sovereign of our citizens, we will be conducting detailed inspections of these drugs. In cases where we have an individual power. We need to approach reform with the twin ideas of and assessments of (29) suspension bridges all over the who turns a blind eye or knowingly fail to take action, “together with the people” and “United strength”. When country within three months with the cooperation of while narcotic and psychotropic drugs are being traded we say “together with the people”, it does not merely foreign experts. From among these suspension bridges, freely, we need to take action against the person who mean listening to the voices of the people. It means we those bridges which may pose danger will be repaired has primary responsibility. At the same time we need to have to build “United strength” by giving high regard to within six months in order of priority. In giving out loans take stringent action in cases where we lose track of the the wishes and opinions of the people. to SME’s (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises), a Credit perpetrators, and cases of abandoned ownerless drugs. In places where there is a mismatch in the reform Bureau will be established which can speed up the loan We need to give more authority to drug enforcement process, we will need to replace with people who are disbursement process and gather information regarding police officers and on the other hand we need to make qualified and can work expeditiously, if need be. Especially the credit worthiness of such enterprises. Permission to the reward and punishment system more effective. If in view of the fact that we need to make preparations for establish such a bureau will be given within one month. the situation requires, I will establish a Rapid Response the Federal Union administrative system, we will need to To shore up and strengthen the judiciary sector, I Drug Enforcement Unit at the national level. reduce central control and make changes where needed have already met the Chief Justice of the Union and the To prevent the wastage of public funds, to carry out based on the suggestions and recommendations of the Union Supreme Court judges, and have given necessary proper management of projects and to estimate project States and Regions. instructions to make sure that in all respective courts, costs as accurately as possible, it may be necessary to In carrying out the above programs, the basic idea judges at all levels are exercising proper supervisory calculate based on local prices. Furthermore, we need to we need to follow is thus: “make reforms without hurting functions with full accountability and responsibility. Our change the current habit of not using the allotted funds for stability”. I wish to submit that we need to work with Union Law Support Association and Rule of Law Centers submitted project budgets. For programmes which have the “United strength” of the Union Government, other should cooperate actively in this regard. We need to strive huge financial outlays, we need to upgrade the capacity branches of government, professionals, civil society for a judiciary branch that is impartial, independent and for project monitoring and evaluation. We will also need to organizations, the Media and the People. Especially, which balances fairness and judicious reasoning. take very harsh actions against officers at various levels we need to work for the transition process based on the We need to ensure that in the face of the law all are who report fake project completion reports; failure to standards of transparency, openness, accountability and equal and that things are done in accordance with the law. follow international procedures for inviting tenders; and responsibility at all levels. In our efforts to combat corruption which has become cases where advantages are taken by using loopholes Dear esteemed citizens, customary and has taken root in most departments, with in tender invitation procedures. In this case, the Union I will strive with heart and soul to bring forth the increased intensity it will be necessary to review the rights Auditor-General and all Audit Committee established in changes which are the aspirations of the people; make and responsibilities of government staff to ensure that all departments should be able to perform their duties them see with their very eyes. In this New Year, if we all there is a proper balance. Each department will have without giving favor and without engaging in corrupt work with “United Strength”, with renewed body and to take responsibility and respectively take action. The practices in strict compliance with the rules. spirit, I am fully confident that we will reach our common Anti-Corruption Commission, the Media and the People Dear esteemed citizens, goal and our common aim, very, very soon. will have to weed out corrupt cases in a proper manner. I will work for the return of farmlands confiscated At this auspicious time of the Myanmar New Year, It is very important to report cases of involvement by illegally and to ensure that compensation has been given, may all Union citizens have peace of mind; may the Un- people with authority and their efforts to interfere, with in close consultation with various States/Regional gov- ion be blessed with Peace, Development and Prosperity. accurate information and credible evidences. To intensify ernments based on the findings, remarks and opinions May all Union citizens participate in the building of the efforts to combat corruption, I have already urged the of different levels of committees, formed for the review Democratic Federal Union, in whatever role they may be Anti-Corruption Commission to draw up an Action Plan of farmlands and other lands, which also include Hluttaw assigned. I conclude this speech with these good wishes. and to exert more efforts in this endeavor. representatives. I will also work to ensure that confiscated Thank you all. 18 APRIL 2018 6 INTERVIEW THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Nay Pyi Taw Council turning the city into a livable place without occurring any bad impact on the environment

By July Moe (Myanma sector development, electricity economic and health fields. Alinn) supply, good transport, rural Road and bridge building water supply, health care and have been prioritized in rural The Nay Pyi Taw Council of infrastructures for the spread areas. The newly developed the government in office is of education opportunities till towns have all the necessary working with the goal of turn- reaching the rural areas, the infrastructure and facilities in- ing Nay Pyi Taw into a livable rule of law, community peace, cluding power and water sup- city which is also the centre of protection of legal rights for ply. The government is making learning and research through the development of Nay Pyi all-out efforts for harmonious environmental friendly means. Taw while adopting the three progress of wards and villages During its first year in work guidelines for urban in Pyinmana, Lewe and Tatkon office, the government spent development according to the townships which are included over K 41 billion in implement- policies. in the Nay Pyi Taw. ing 1431 tasks to reach this Endeavours are being The old Yangon-Manda- end. The expenditure came made for the progress of lay road passes through the from the funds allowed by the education, health, transport, Nay Pyi Taw for over 57 miles. Union, funds allotted by the agriculture, small and medium The 24-ft wide road has been Pyidaungsu Huttaw and funds enterprises in fulfilling the repaved and extended to be- donated region-wise. In the basic needs. In many cases, come a 48-ft wide facility with second year, it implemented transport is a key for regional smooth surface. 1390 tasks at a cost of over K 42 development. Good transport In the road and bridges billion. facilitates commodity flow and sector, the government during The government is trade, thus helping develop its first year in office spent working to ensure agricultural other sectors such as social, over Ks 12 billion in imple- Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman Dr. Myo Aung. PHOTO: MNA

menting 651 programs and Livestock breeding is also spent over K 12 billion and important for the rural people implemented 361 programs in as the agriculture. Financial the second year. It is also build- and material assistance have ing rural roads and bridges to been provided to farmers narrow the gap between towns under various programs for and villages. peasants to take part in farm- Nay Pyi Taw has a popu- ing business as well. Nay Pyi lation of one million and over Taw provided a capital of Ks 50 per cent is living in the 90 million for 370 households rural areas where agriculture in Pyinmana, Ottarathiri and is the main livelihood. Nay Zeyathiri townships to earn ex- Pyi Taw put over 0.16 million tra icome through permanent areas under monsoon paddy breeding farms. and produced over 14.3 million In the education sector, baskets at the per acre yield of the government allotted over 84 baskets. It has already put Ks 5.4 billion for 234 programs 25,900 acres under summer in the eight townships of the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman Dr. Myo Aung and Chinese Ambassador Mr. Hong Lian inspect paddy. Private businesses are city during the first year, and Thapyaygone market. PHOTO: MNA also taking part in growing allotted over Ks 6 billion for 135 monsoon and summer paddy programs in the eight town- in the council area and they ships of the city during the sec- are introducing high-yield and ond year. The number of high, pest-resistant quality strains. middle and primary schools Nay Pyi Taw will distribute the government upgraded in quality strains and is launching academic year 2017-2018 in the pilot projects to test the new city area reached 96 and the strains. The city is also extend- government also appointed ing the irrigation system. The over 420 new teachers. It is government spent over Ks preparing to appoint 265 more 8 billion in implementing 199 ir- teachers in the academic year riigation works during the first 2018-2019. year and over spent K 10 billion The government spent implementing 413 works. over Ks 6.3 billion in this fiscal Under the World Bank year for the health sector loans and Agriculture Govern- alone. It has implemented ment Supporting Project, the health undertakings at a cost city is promoting the irrigation of over Ks 2.7 billion. The system by spending nearly works totaling over 130 includ- K 3.4 billion. The project will ed extension of new buildings, Workers assemble a 200 KVA transformer for the Sub-power station-1 in Dakkhinathiri Township in irrigate over 7,000 acres in the school health undertakings, Nay Pyi Taw Council Area. FILE PHOTO city area. and rural health activities. 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR INTERVIEW 7

The government rein- country has the draft agree- forced its activities in providing ment with Qatar and it has health teams comprising spe- been approved. So work is cialist surgeons for rural areas under way to hire land under in eight townships in Nay Pyi agreement. The zone now has Taw this year. It had launchd 12 24-ft wide streets, facilities such activities in the previous for water and power supply. year also. The health teams Work is being made under the included general practition- amended 16-point policy of the ers, child specialists, malaria Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specialists, leprosy specialists, the embassies to move to the surgeons and dentists. diplomatic zone. The government could fur- “We now have already ther upgrade the disease pre- adopted a future plan for vention measures as its main development of Nay Pyi Taw. health activity in the two-year We will implement the plan in period. It could administer vac- cooperation with the relevant cine to over 17000 children and ministries. We have a five- over 17000 expectant mothers point policy. The main aim in the first year and give vac- is to turn Nay Pyi Taw into a cine to over 18000 children and constantly clean and green city over 18000 expectant mothers where all-round development in the second year. It also gave undertakings are free from vaccine to nearly 300,000 chil- Chairman Dr Myo Aung observing while cardiologists treating patient who suffer from heart damaging the environment. dren in Nay Py Taw. problems. PHOTO: MNA As Nay Pyi Taw is the capital During its first year in of the country and the seat of office, the government imple- the government it will host mented four specialist hos- only small-scale industries pitals – gynecology specialist and no heavy industries will hospital, child specialist hospi- be allowed. It will become a tal, bone specialist hospital and smart city which is the centre eye specialist hospital. It also of knowledge of the country,” implemented a special hospital said Chairman of Nay Pyi Taw level dental hospital for the Council Dr Myo Aung. first time in the nation. The In addition, there are hospitals are giving treatment economic development under- to people from all over the takings of the city. One of the country. advantages of Nay Pyi Taw is The 1000-bed General its possession of an interna- Hospital in Nay Pyi Taw has tional airport. The number of been equipped with modern passengers coming through facilities, medicines and skilled the airport is still small at staff to treat people from far present. But it will become a and near. The hospitals in Nay vital place and a transit centre Pyi Taw is conducting medi- of Asia when the city becomes cal checks on cancer free of the centre of knowledge where charge to everyone. development of intellectual Zabuthiri Hospital in Nay property is high. Pyi Taw is a government-pri- The government is work- vate jont-venture providing ing together with the donors medical treatment with the in looking into the social needs most advanced equipment and of the public and solving the methods charging only 75 per hardships of the citizens of the cent of the actual cost. Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman Dr Myo Aung provides assistance to households. PHOTO: MNA city. In some cases, the depart- The government upgrad- mental staffs are providing one ed the meat and fish stalls of stop or door-to-door services Thabyaygon market in Nay Pyi all the villages in Zeyathiri for the satisfaction of the local Taw at the cost of nearly Ks 1 Township has been electrified. people. billion in cooperation with the This year alone, the govern- The main aim is to turn Nay Pyi Taw into a The Nay Pyi Taw Council People’s Republic of China. It ment spent over Ks 4 billion in constantly clean and green city where all- has been working for ensuring also created a neat and tidy implementing 86 more power round development undertakings are free security, progress, cleanness place for vendors in Tatkon. supply projects in the remain- and pleasantness of the people The government spent ing townships. from damaging the environment. living in the city. It is also nearly Ks 7 billion in imple- The government has been striving to further improve the menting 168 rural water supply opening OSS offices all around living standards of the people. projects in the first year and the country to serve the Additionally its endeavours in- spent Ks 1.4 billion in imple- public in various places. These The Nay Pyi Taw Develop- building and maintaining roads clude education development, menting 175 rural water supply officers had solved or settled ment Committee is developing and bridges and other neces- health and longevity, roads and projects in the second year. It over 60,000 public complaints the capital city as a sector sary facilities. bridges development, mainte- is adopting special plans for or problems through amicable of its tasks. The committee The government has nance of dam for good irriga- rural areas where water is and smooth services within is accepting funds from the created 120 500-ft by 500-ft tion, and uninterrupted supply insufficient. a two-year period. Talks of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw and gov- plots in the diplomatic zone of electricity. In so doing, the In the past of the eight courses on subjects related ernment financial support and of the capital city. Three plots council is striving with best ef- townships of Nay Pyi Taw only to vocation education or drug from its own budget in green- have already been hired and forts depending on the allotted Zabuthiri had the cent-per- awareness have been given in ing the city, implementing wa- 12 countries have already budget. cent rural power supply. Now various parts of the city area. ter works and sanitation plans, chosen 27 plots for them. The Translation TMT 18 APRIL 2018 18 APRIL 2018 8 OPINION THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR OPINION 9

Situation of Foreign Direct Investment in Myanmar

(US $ Millions) People over Let's strive for forest 9481.28 8010.53

6649.81

4644.46 4920.25 policy 4107.06

1419.47 T was reassuring to hear President U Win Myint speak products export to rise again about his support for ordinary Myanmar citizens such as 2011-2012 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018 (April-January) civil servants, farmers and students and to address human rights abuses. Source:Directorate of Investment & Company Administration ( DICA ) I Information Unit: Central Statistical Organization Too often, politicians speak in general terms about policy, vision, hopes and dreams. But his speech yesterday had ordinary By Myint Maung Soe regulation which can be prevent- citizens in mind, those who are usually ignored, or who have their ed from illegal timber trading. basic rights violated, such as detainees and prisoners. YANMAR has been Annual Specific Goods Tax Collection from Fiscal Year In his New Year address, U Win Myint stressed that hard-work- recognised for pro- U Aye Lwin, Chairman of 2012-2013 to 2016-2017 ing civil servants will be taken care of even after they retire. ducing valuable ASEAN Furniture Council (Million of Kyat) “Among our civil service personnel who are still in active Mhardwood for the Forests have long played 994235.726 service, there are some who do not have proper housing. I have world's timber trading, due to its an integral role in the devel- also noticed that a great number of civil service personnel after favourable weather conditions opment of national economies. retirement are suffering greatly because they do not have housing. and natural resources. Teak is The Ministry of Forestry had That is why our Union Government will work hard on a priority the most valuable wood in the earned $300 million annually basis so that civil service personnel will have at least a house or world, and Myanmar is regarded from exporting logging timbers. 0 an apartment and live in dignity by the time they retire”, U Win as the home of teak production. The export volumes have risen Myint said in his New Year’s The following are some ex- from $500 million to $1 billion speech yesterday. cerpts from interviews with the in 1997. According to the data, For farmers The President also said officials concerned. 90 per cent of export earnings 2012-2013 2016-2017

that basic human rights will were from raw logs and finished Remark : Specific Goods Tax is started to collect at 2016-2017 FY. whose rights to not be violated, especially for U Win Myint, Director of logging products. Our country Source : Internal Revenue Department Information Unit : Central Statistical Organization their land have prisoners and detainees. Trade Promotion Department has managed to earn up to $ 500 “The Human Rights Com- Forest product is an industry million while other ASEAN coun- been previously mission should endeavour to which can attract foreign curren- provide protection to ensure Annual Income Tax Collection from Fiscal Year trampled upon, the legal basic rights of individ- 2012-2013 to 2016-2017 uals, the fundamental rights of (Million of Kyat) the President citizens and the freedom and expressed security of citizens at interro- 2016-2017 2323668.760 gation centres, police station support. lockups, court detention rooms, 2015-2016 2326399.764 jails, and hard labour prisoner camps without discrimination. 2014-2015 2234937.998 I have already met the Human Rights Commission members and have given instructions to ensure that citizens do not lose their 2013-2014 1799834.456 inalienable rights, in other words their fundamental rights. The 2012-2013 1432589.587 organizations themselves which are working in the area of human tries could earn $ 2 billion or $ 3 rights should take extra care not to trample upon the fundamental cy and employment opportunities and environment. Also there still U Khin Maung Aye, Chairman find ways and means to sell our have been conducting to dig these billion annually. That's why I'd Income Tax rights and dignity of any individual and to act fairly in accordance besides promoting GDP for the remains a few forest products of Central Cooperative Soci- products in the world markets. rare pine trees for eight years. like to request the government Source: Internal Revenue Department Information Unit : Central Statistical Organization with the law”, he said in his speech yesterday. country. It was also listed in the which cannot be exported such ety Myanmar produces teak, You can see many sculptures to relax some undesirable rules For farmers whose rights to their land have been previously National Strategy and there are as raw logs and finished timber Forest products are one of hardwood and Gum-Kino trees, made of rare pine trees in the and regulations for the benefits trampled upon, the President expressed support. hundreds of saw mills and oth- products to the foreign countries. Myanmar's treasures, and an- which are world-renowned prod- living rooms of houses in China. of the people and the state; to “I will work for the return of farmlands confiscated illegally and er related factories across the Therefore we are going to develop ything included among forest ucts. Another rare species of pine They value most these sculptures encourage wood-based industry to ensure that compensation has been given, in close consultation country. Forest product plays the production as a sector-wide products is valuable, whether tree have grown only along the and we will try to produce these and increase job opportunities Invitation to young writers with various States/Regional governments based on the findings, a vital role in the export sector approach. As for our department, they are animals or plants. We Myanmar-China borders. These rare pine trees as a value-added for the people; to reinforce rules remarks and opinions of different levels of committees, formed and has reached US$1.2 billion plans are underway to improve used to export logging timbers trees had been planted in Putao products when the transportation of laws for the people who live in for Sunday section for the review of farmlands and other lands”, the President said. in 2007. Nevertheless we can still the process of logging timbers and at present, we handle man- region over thousands of years. system is good. the legal-fold; to support financial Perhaps of greater importance, the President yesterday export these forest products to and finding new markets so that ufacturing and logging activities Unfortunately, these trees no Many big trees in Myanmar aids for the businessmen and to The Global New Light of Myanmar is accepting pledged his support for students, the future of the country, who foreign countries due to our nat- illegal logging will be completely which are a combination of sculp- longer grow in this area, but some had fallen down during the Cy- take action against some busi- submissions of poetry, opinion, articles, essays and short will contribute their efforts towards building a stable Democratic ural resources, climate condition wiped out in the country. tors and technology. We should roots remain underground. We clone Nargis. We can produce nessmen who violate the rules. stories from young people for its weekly Sunday Next Federal Republic with a thriving economy. them as a valuable treasure with Forest products remains as Generation Platform. Interested candidates can send their “We will focus and work towards having more students in the the combination of technology an important source of foreign works to the Global New Light of Myanmar at No. 150, professional disciplines. Providing opportunities to students from and innovation. Our Shwe Pyi exchange in the country and co- Nga Htat Kyee Pagoda Road, Bahan Township, Yangon or by low-income families and poor families to pursue higher education Resort is situated in Bago and operation is of great importance email to [email protected] with the following information: (1) Sector you wish to be included in will soon become an important policy for the State. We have to it is set on a 100-acre compound to maintain the sustainable de- Myanmar produces teak, hardwood and Gum-Kino trees, which are (poetry, opinion, etc.), (2) Real name and (if different) your work to ensure that students with abilities get the opportunity to with many sculptures. Moreo- velopment of Myanmar's forests, penname, (3) Your level of education, (4) Name of your pursue the disciplines for which they qualify. To ensure they get world-renowned products. Another rare species of pine tree have ver we are trying to be listed therefore effective approaches School/College/University, (5) A written note of declaration the positions they deserve, we need to improve ways and means in the world's record with the should be made to get benefits that the submitted piece is your original work and has not for them to study abroad or at home”. grown only along the Myanmar-China borders. These trees had been aim of displaying a variety of to the industry and economy in been submitted to any other news or magazine publishing As the President noted yesterday in his speech, the march sculptures from Myanmar. The Myanmar. houses, (6) A color photo of the submitter, (7) Copy of your NRC card, (8) Contact information (email address, mobile for reform needs to begin with the country’s people, “who are the government should encourage planted in Putao region over thousands of years. number, etc.).— Editorial Department, The Global New original owners of sovereign power”. developing value-added forest Translated by Win Ko Ko Aung Light of Myanmar news office products and relax some strict 18 APRIL 2018 10 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Myanmar New Year Greetings of Vice-Presidents, Hluttaw Speakers, Tatmadaw Commander-in-Chief and Cardinal Charles Bo

Vice President U Myint Swe’s New Vice President U Henry Van Thio’s New Year Message Year Message On the occasion of the Myanmar New May all the people and ethnic na- Year, I send greetings and good wishes for tionals of the Republic of the Union of the good health and auspiciousness of all Myanmar be joyful on the occasion of the ethnic nationalities living in the Republic Myanmar New Year. of the Union of Myanmar. A peaceful and developed federal For the Republic of the Union of My- union is to be constructed through the anmar to be stable and peaceful and in collective strength of the ethnic brethren striving toward the firm establishment of born in the union with friendship, mutual a democracy system, everyone, including support, mutual assistance, mutual re- ethnic nationals, is urged to work together spect and mutual understanding based in unity with the government, play their on union spirit. Collective strength is the respective parts based on ethnic national main force that can face and overcome spirit, love for the country and with col- all obstacles. lective strength. Dear beloved, respected and parent May all ethnic national brethren be like people and ethnic nationals, face and overcome all difficulties well and happy on the New Year. May there be auspiciousness from with renewed strength in both body this occasion of the Myanmar New Year and mind. May all damaging fires be and throughout the whole life and may doused and may you all have eternal ME 1380 Myanmar New Year greeting your lives be full of happiness. May you peace. from Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker U T Khun Myat The old year has ended and a new Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker’s Myanmar year has begun. The old system has New Year message been changed to a new system. We are On the occasion of the Myanmar New amending or repealing laws that are not Year, may all ethnic national brothers in accord with the new era and system. and sisters in the Republic of the Union At the same time the Hluttaw is enacting of Myanmar and abroad be well both laws that benefit the people, protect their physically and mentally. May they be at basic human rights, providing for both peace and happy on the occasion of the physical and mental security. We will ex- Myanmar New Year. ert our mental and physical efforts to the On the occurrence of the New Year, utmost to fulfill the duties assigned to us people are to take lessons from the trou- by the people. bles, difficulties, strength, weaknesses May the people also cooperate and and challenges faced in the past year. The participate with the Hluttaw in establish- the Republic of the Union of Myanmar be people and ethnic nationals of the country ing a democracy federal union. May they peaceful and become developed. May the are to unite in friendship to achieve a bet- enjoy the full human rights and achieve people be happy and well on the occasion ter future, new opportunities for success the full benefit of unity and peace. May of the New Year. in the coming year with fresh body, mind and strength. With the aim toward benefiting the of the democracy and is of benefit to Cardinal Charles Maung Bo sends New Year is silently asking all ethnic na- people, the parliaments are drawing up the people and the country. wishes for Myanmar New Year tionals to forgive and forget the wounds and enacting laws for peace, rule of law May the federal democracy un- Esteemed brothers and sisters, of the past and move peacefully hand-in- and national reconciliation, and to amend ion be established with the collective Thingyan and cool fresh water, Padauk hand into the future in unity to build a or repeal laws that are not in harmony strength of the people and the ethnic flowers filling the landscape, always peaceful Union. with the time and the system. nationals. May the citizens of Myan- go hand in hand. Just as the cool fresh Furthermore, this landscape of In doing this, I pledge that our legis- mar have a prosperous and peaceful water of the New Year cools us down in Padauk flowers, represent the natural lative pillar, the parliaments, will provide life on the occasion of the New Year. the summer heat, this also symbolizes the resources of Myanmar. They are always check and balance to the administrative May the suspicions and hatred cease attainment of peace amidst the flaming reminding us that it is the duty of every and judicial sectors in the best possible and egoistic prides be discarded. May fires of anger. citizen to appreciate the value of our nat- ways so that it becomes stronger and they follow the true teachings of their The cool fresh water of the New Year ural resources and protect and conserve effective, are in accordance to the norms religions. symbolizes Unity. them for future generations. No matter how different the Chind- On this auspicious occasion of the win, Kaladan, Ayeyawady, Sittaung, Than- New Year I send these good wishes to you New Year Message by Tatmadaw lwin, and Taninthayi rivers may be, they all to be blessed with Peace, Unity, Rec- Commander-in-Chief Senior Gen- all flow into the ocean and become one onciliation and Metta (Loving-kindness). eral Min Aung Hlaing entity and one color. I send this message of greet- Likewise, the cool fresh water of the ings with good wishes for all Myan- New Year does not discriminate the color mar nationals living in the country of skin or religion, but unifies the people. and abroad to have peace of mind The cool fresh water of the New Year has and good health in the New Year. the power to cleanse us. It symbolizes During the year 1379, people went the ability to purify us both physically as through many experiences, including well as spiritually. It also portrays forgive- some changes. Let us all renew our ness. strength this New Year to overcome We should thus enter into the New the weariness of going through the Year forgiving all harms and transgres- past year. Let us all be happy and sions inflicted upon us with renewed spir- make merit together. And from thence its and bodies into a new world. may we all be able to do better and This cup of cool fresh water of the achieve more progress in 1380. 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 11

Maungtaw pays respects to elderly Republic of the Union of Myanmar Office of the President Order No. 16/2018 3rd Waxing of Kason, 1380 ME (17 April, 2018) Order to abolish rules for political cases set under Sub-section (1), Section 401 of the Criminal Procedure Code

Prisoners who were serving jail terms for political cases in various correctional facilities across the country have been given unconditional amnesty under the Sub-section (1), Section 401 of the Criminal Procedure Code, and the rules set under the above section of the Criminal Procedure Code have been abolished as from the date when this order was announced.

Sd/Win Myint President The congregation led by Maungtaw District Deputy Commissioner U Ye Htut pay respect to the elderly persons Republic of the Union of Myanmar at Sasana Beikman in Maungtaw, Rakhine State. PHOTO: TIN SOE

MAUNGTAW Town held the Next, they paid respects and town elders then provided 41st ceremony to pay respects to the elderly and recited offertories to the attending el- to the elderly at Sasana Beik- an homage poem. Later, an derly persons. Of the 126 elders man in Maungtaw Town, Rakh- elderly person delivered the who are above 80 in Maung- Republic of the Union of Myanmar ine State, yesterday morning. words of thanks on behalf of taw Township, 93 attended the Office of the President Maungtaw District Deputy the elders. ceremony. After the ceremony, Order No. 17/2018 Commissioner U Ye Htut and The district/township level officials went to the homes of 3rd Waxing of Kason, 1380 ME the ceremony’s Organising departmental officials, respon- the elders who were unable to (17 April, 2018) Committee Vice Chairman U sible persons, the Red Cross, attend the ceremony and pro- Aung San Thein first delivered civil society organisations, vided the offertories directly to Amnesty Order the speeches. philanthropic organisations them.— Aung Kyaw Oo

As a gesture of marking the Myanmar New Year, to ensure the peace of mind of the people and taking into con- Rakhine traditional water sideration the humanitarian concerns,8,490 prisoners serving jail terms in various correctional facilities across the country have been given unconditional amnesty today under the festival kicks off Sub-section (1), Section 401 of the Criminal Procedure Code.

Sd/Win Myint THE Rakhine traditional water President festival, which will be celebrat- Republic of the Union of Myanmar ed for three days from 17 to 19 April, kicked off yesterday. A ceremony to open the Rakhine traditional water festival at the central pan- dal in Maungtaw was held at Republic of the Union of Myanmar Myoma (east) Ward in Maung- Office of the President taw Town. Order No. 18/2018 At the event, Maungtaw 3rd Waxing of Kason, 1380 ME District Management Commit- (17 April, 2018) tee Chairman Deputy Commis- sioner U Ye Htut delivered the Amnesty Order New Year’s greetings. Western Command Commander Briga- dier General Soe Tint Naing, Deputy Commissioner U Ye Htut sprinkles with scented water to As a gesture of marking the Myanmar New Year and Rakhine traditional dancers at the Rakhine traditional water festival in No (15) Mobile Operation Com- Maungtaw. PHOTO: MAUNGTAW DISTRICT IPRD with a view to maintaining friendship with other countries mand Brigadier General Khin and taking into consideration the humanitarian concerns, 51 Maung Soe, Police Brigadier foreign prisoners serving jail terms in various correctional General Myint Toe, Maungtaw open the central pandal. and dances. The Rakhine tra- facilities across the country have been given unconditional District Management Commit- Later, departmental offi- ditional water festival is being amnesty and expelled today under the Sub-section (1), Section tee Chairman Deputy Com- cials and a few invited foreign- celebrated for nearly 80 years 401 of the Criminal Procedure Code.. missioner U Ye Htut, Town- ers from Maungtaw-based in- now. A music band is included ship Management Committee ternational non-governmental this year, with entertainment Sd/Win Myint Chairman U Myint Khaing, a organisations sprinkled with being provided by well-known President Rakhine State Hluttaw repre- scented water, while Rakhine performers and popular Ra- Republic of the Union of Myanmar sentative and a town elder then traditional dancers entertained khine singers. — Maungtaw cut the ceremonial ribbon to with classical Thingyan songs District IPRD 18 APRIL 2018 12 NATIONAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR Paritta recitation, merit making on New Year Day in Nay Pyi Taw

THE Myanmar people marked crowd conducted donations, in- Nay Pyi Taw Council members, the end of Myanmar Era (ME) cluding Jivitadana donations. members of the pagoda board 1379 and the start of 1380 with an In the morning, the 10th of trustees, and members and auspicious ceremony yesterday. Paritta recitation ceremony to staff of religious organisations. It is Myanmar tradition to exorcise evil spirits and bad Later, the union minister and wash away the dirt of the old omens was held at the Cave of officials provided offertories to year from the body with Thing- Uppatasanti Pagoda in Nay Pyi the Sayadaw and sanghas. yan water, while the dirt in the Taw, where pilgrims and audi- Later, the Sayadaw and mind is washed away through ence took the Nine Precepts monks recited Paritta in the Nay merit making on New Year’s Day. and listened to the sermons and Pyi Taw Council area in a heli- The New Year’s Day of ME recitation of Paritta delivered copter to repel imminent dan- 1380 started with people keep- by the Sayadaws and Buddhist gers and drive away evil spirits ing the Sabbath in pagodas and monks, led by Pyinmana Maha on the auspicious occasion of the monasteries, caring for personal Withutayama Zaygon Monastery New Year, sending Metta (loving hygiene of the elderly, paying Abhidhaja Maha Rattha Guru kindness), and then, the sacred Union Minister for Religious Affairs and Culture Thura U Aung Ko and respects to the elders, the Jiv- Bhaddanta Kavisara, who is waters were sprayed aerially. wife donate offertories to Sayadaw in Nay Pyi Taw. PHOTO: MNA itadana donation of releasing the Ovadacariya (patron) of Up- Similarly, famous pagodas in animals from harm or captivity patasanti Pagoda board of trus- Nay Pyi Taw Council area such crowded with people keeping apartments of public servants and other merit makings. tee. Present at the occasion were as Satta Sattaha Pagoda, Maha Sabbath, merit makers making in Nay Pyi Taw, sayadaws, sang- In Nay Pyi Taw, Sabbath Union Minister for Religious Af- Sakya Ranthi Pagoda, Datu Jaya food donations and Jivitadana has and monks were invited to keepers flocked to pagodas and fairs and Culture Thura U Aung Datupaungsu Pagoda, Ko Kham donation. recite Parittas and offerings of monasteries, sayadaws and Ko and wife, Union Attorney Pagoda, Loka Marazein Pago- In the ministries, Dham- food and donations were made. sanghas recited Paritta and the General U Tun Tun Oo and wife, da, Yan Aung Myin Pagoda were mayones, wards and housing – Myanmar News Agency Myanmar strongly objects use of such words as “ethnic cleansing” or “genocide” in reference to the situation in Rakhine State: Permanent Representative to UN Myanmar’s Permanent Representative to UN spoke on Myanmar’s efforts in prevention of sexual violence and measures taken to address the issue at the United Nations Security Council’s open debate on Women, Peace and Security: “Preventing sexual violence in conflict through empowerment, gender equality and access to justice” at the United Nations Headquarters on 16 April 2018.

SPEAKING at the debate, of Cox’s Bazar to investigate In Myanmar, sexual vio- Myanmar strongly objects Permanent Representative of the cases. However, we are dis- lence is crime strongly abhorred the use of such words as “eth- Myanmar, Ambassador U Hau appointed that our request for by our traditional values, and nic cleansing” or “genocide” Do Suan explained Myanmar’s proper investigations had been strictly forbidden by law and its in reference to the situation in position of preventing and ad- denied. culture. Myanmar delegation Rakhine State. Such irrespon- dressing conflict – related sex- With regard to the alleged stressed that the members of sible accusations based on un- ual violence by taking further sexual violence as mentioned the armed forces are subject not substantiated, one-sided allega- steps to cooperate with the in the Secretary-General’s re- only to the Military Act of 1959 tions, fake news and tempered United Nations. With regard to port, the Government of My- and Military by-laws, but also reports for political purpose, the Annual Report of the Secre- anmar has made its position to the existing civilian laws and will only exacerbate the cur- tary-General on Conflict related very clear that it will not con- traditions. As such, severe legal rent situation and will lead to Sexual Violence, he said that the done any human rights abuse. action is taken against perpetra- further polarization of different Ambassador U Hau Do Suan, report acknowledges important If there is concrete evidence, we tors, be they civilian or member communities in the region. Permanent Representative of steps taken by Myanmar to pro- are ready to take action against of security forces. There were He said such incessant Myanmar to UN tect the rights of women and any perpetrator in accordance a number of evidences of pros- rhetoric against Myanmar will children. However, it is most with the law without impunity. ecutions of military personnel only impact negatively on the ed sexual violence, we should regrettable that the Tatmadaw The recent sentencing of seven for committing sexual violence. existing cooperation between also deplore the exploitation of has been listed in the annex of military personnel to 10 years Members of the armed forc- Myanmar and the United Na- this sensitive issue by certain the report despite Myanmar’s in prison with hard labour who es have been clearly instructed tions, as well as the on-going groups as a tool to achieve their genuine efforts to engage con- were involved in the Inn Din to strictly follow Military Code bilateral cooperation with Bang- own political goal. The problem structively with the office of the incident, is a clear demonstra- of Conduct and not to involve ladesh in the efforts to find a of sexual violence cannot be Special Representative of the tion of the Government’s strong in crimes including sexual vi- lasting solution to the current resolved through naming and Secretary-General on Sexual commitment to the rule of law. olence. A series of capacity humanitarian problem as well blaming. The international com- Violence in Conflict (SRSG- Myanmar delegation categori- building workshops were held as the complex situation in Ra- munity must take a constructive SVC). Besides, the decision of cally rejects the groundless ac- to educate military personnel on khine. approach through sharing of the listing was made based on cusations that sexual violence human rights. The curriculums According to the Ministry of information of violations and unverified allegations in spite had been used as a strategy to of the military training schools Foreign Affairs, Ambassador U assisting the member states in of our attempts to interview the force the Muslim people to flee include teaching of law related Hau Do Suan also reminded that their efforts to address the is- alleged victims in the camps their homes. to prevention of sexual violence. as we all condemn conflict-relat- sue.—Myanmar News Agency 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NATIONAL 13

Myanmar New Year greetings of Rector Sayadaw, prominent persons

Rector Sayadaw Dr. Bhaddanta Nanda Hanthawady U Ohn Kyaing, veteran Mala Bivamsa Journalist In the New Year of 1380, everyone “We saw our new president’s commit- should try to have a new outlook on life. ment to development of the media sector, Get rid of bad habits from the previous or the ‘Fourth Pillar’ of the country, in his year and adopt good habits to create a inaugural speech on 30 March. We, on new life. behalf of the members of our journalists’ The Buddha has left some teachings world, welcome his commitment. Also, for starting a new life: I wish success of the 3rd session of the 1. I shall not harm other people’ I Union Peace Conference-21st Century shall wish for their prosperity. Panglong.” 2. I shall not be envious of others’ accomplishments; I shall be joyous for them. U Zaw Min Win, President of the 3. I shall not trick or manipulate Republic of the UMFCCI other people; I shall be free from “I wish for development of econ- deceit and be honest. omy, peace and happiness that the people yearned for, while we, the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Interfaith Group sends wishes for New Year Federation of Chambers of Com- merce and Industry is striving to join U Aung Naing, General Manager of hands with the Government for the Interfaith Friendship and Untiy Group development of the private sector.” It is an auspicious occasion that My- anmar, with 90 per cent of its inhabitants being Buddhists, celebrates her New Year together with all races and religions. Dr. Thet Thet Zin (Chairperson of My- I wish for peace and wellness of mind, anmar Women’s Affairs Federation) and happiness for everyone every day. It is nature that the old year makes way for the New Year. This year witness- U Hla Maung, Retired Ambassador es ME 1379 advance to ME 1380 of the (Patron of Interfaith Friendship and Myanmar Calendar. Our country has Unity Group) developed with each passing year and Myanmar’s tradition encourages has overcome many challenges along people to have compassion and under- the way. The Myanmar Women’s Affairs standing for each other as the old year Federation has also accomplished much gives way for the New Year. I wish for for women to be inclusive in the country’s everyone’s wishes for Myanmar to be development process. In the New Year fulfilled in the New Year. I also wish for we will continue working for women’s the swift arrival of internal peace for our that there will be peace and stability in the development in states, regions, districts, ethnic brethren in the coming year. I wish country which will lead us to a modern, townships, wards, and villages. I wish for for all ethnics and all religions to be united developed democratic defderal union in all the women and citizens of the country with compassion in the coming year so the future. an auspicious New Year.

Prof. Dr. Aung Tun Thet, Chief Coordi- U Min Han (Chairman of Myanmar nator of UEHRD Printers and Publishers Association) Everyone looks forward to the New May all Myanmar citizens have an Year with high hopes. Everyone wishes auspicious New Year filled with peace of to overcome their challenges and difficul- mind and good health. May there be so- ties in the New Year, whether they be an cio-economic development, union peace individual, an organization, or as a coun- and full protection granted by the law. try. Our country is currently undergoing On behalf of the Myanmar Printers and political changes and the most important Publishers Association, I wish for every thing right now is lasting peace. As equally the right thing. Everyone will have hopes citizen to be capable of contributing to important as peace is economic devel- and dreams for the New Year. I wish for the nation’s development no matter how opment. Development and peace grow those hopes and dreams to be fulfilled small it may be. parallel. There needs to be understanding, and for Myanmar’s future to be bright. patience, and forgiveness for this. I have May the poor become rich and the weak trust in people and hope that they will do become strong. U Ye Min Aung (Vice-Chairman of UMFCCI) I wish for happiness, peace, and U Phyo Wai Yazar (Managing Director safety of the citizens, the farmers and of Diethelm Travel Myanmar) the fishermen who make up most of I wish for an auspicious MR 1380 the population. Exports of rice and Myanmar New Year for all Myanmar cit- fishery products have increased from izens. I wish for everyone to take all the last year. I wish for high exports and experiences from the previous year and increased quality of products for the use them to become better economically, farmers in this year as well and for socially, and politically among many other them and the government to collabo- sectors. rate together in this edeavour. 18 APRIL 2018 14 SOCIAL THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR

Eva Longoria gets Hip-hop superstar Drake is teasing a new album — without providing an star on Hollywood exact release date or other details. PHOTO: AFP Walk of Fame

LOS ANGELES—Eva Longo- are expecting their first child ria, best known for her role in May. in the TV series “Desperate Celebrities such as Ricky Housewives,” got a star on Martin, Victoria Beckham and Hollywood’s Walk of Fame on actresses Felicity Huffman and Monday, in an event hailed by Anna Faris also attended the the Latino community. ceremony. “Representation matters. “It’s really important for So every time there’s another me to be here, for people to Latino on this Walk of Fame, come and see the star, and it’s another win for a whole know that you can do it with community,” the 43-year-old a lot of hard work,” said Lon- actress from a Texas family goria. tracing its roots to Mexico told In the romantic comedy AFP. “Overboard,” set for release Longoria received the next month, Longoria plays Drake, reigning on singles honor in the presence of her the best friend of a single moth- husband, former Televisa er struggling to make ends chairman Jose Baston. They meet.—AFP chart, announces album

NEW YORK—Hip-hop superstar an exact release date or other streamed in the United States Drake teased a new album on details. He has often played with more than 60 million times and Monday, all but certain to prove the traditional album format, in- downloaded 88,000 times in the a major commercial success as stead putting out sprawling song week through Thursday, track- he dethroned himself on top of collections marketed as mixtapes. ing service Nielsen Music said. the singles chart. But one consistency in his Drake, 31, has roots as a The Toronto artist posted prodigious output has been com- rapper but has increasingly on Instagram a picture of him- mercial achievement. gone in a pop direction and self with his back to the camera His song “God’s Plan” incorporated the infectious sporting a jacket that read “Scor- topped the US singles chart for beats of Jamaican dancehall, pion” and “June 2018.” 11 weeks -- until being dethroned most notably on his hit “One Drake, who separately put on Monday by another of his Dance,” which is the second Eva Longoria poses on her just-unveiled star on Hollywood’s Walk of out a picture of a necklace with a songs, “Nice for What.” most-streamed song ever on Fame. PHOTO: AFP scorpion pendant, did not reveal His latest song was Spotify.—AFP

South Korean actress once kidnapped to North dies at 91

SEOUL—A South Korean ac- abduction remain unclear. security. tress who was once kidnapped Choi remained trapped The couple returned to the by the North’s agents on the in the North for eight years, South in 1999 after spending orders of leader Kim Jong Un’s where the two made more than more than a decade in the US. late father and forced to make 10 films together under the in- They remained married until movies for the regime has died struction of Kim Jong Il. Shin’s death in 2006. aged 91, her family said. In a 2011 interview, Choi Their dramatic life inspired Choi Eun-hee was the said Kim “respected us as art- several books and movies. South’s most famous actress for ists and fully supported us,” but Choi, who made her cine- decades before being brazen- that she could never forgive him matic debut in 1942, had risen ly abducted by North Korean for the “outrageous and unfor- to stardom in the wake of the spies in Hong Kong in 1978 at givable” kidnapping. 1950-53 Korean War that sealed the request of the North’s then They were allowed to make the division between the com- leader-in-waiting Kim Jong Il, “films with artistic values, in- munist North and the capitalist an avid film fan. stead of just propaganda films South. During her visit to Hong extolling the regime,” Choi said, She was called the “queen” Kong to meet a potential in- but always longed for their free- of South Korean cinema from Choi Eun-hee was the South’s most famous actress for decades before vestor in her arts school, she dom. the 1950s to the 1970s while ap- being abducted by North Korean spies in Hong Kong in 1978. was reportedly lured onto a During their ordeal, the PHOTO: AFP pearing in more than 100 mov- boat by her guide before being couple travelled overseas ex- ies—many made by Shin. transferred against her will to tensively for movie production 1985 for her role in “Salt”—a trip to Hungary at Kim’s urging. North Korea abducted hun- a cargo ship destined for North missions and to attend film fes- film about Korean guerrillas But they finally staged a dreds of South Koreans under Korea. tivals—always under heavy sur- fighting against the 1910-45 Jap- daring escape to the US embas- a state-sanctioned policy in the Her husband Shin Sang- veillance by the North’s agents. anese colonial rule. sy in Vienna after attending the decades following the Korean ok, a top director, was taken to Choi even won the best The couple—who had di- Berlinale film festival in 1986, War. the North soon after, although actress award at the Moscow vorced in 1976, before their ab- and sought asylum in the US Choi’s funeral will be held circumstances over his alleged International Film Festival in ductions — remarried during a due to fear for their personal in Seoul on Thursday.—AFP 18 APRIL 2018 THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR NEW YEAR WISHING 15 18 APRIL 2018 16 SPORT THE GLOBAL NEW LIGHT OF MYANMAR De Bruyne eyes golden era for champs City

LONDON—Kevin De Bruyne ary, for longer than the one year squad and more rein- says Manchester City are ready remaining on his contract. forcements are likely to reign supreme in the Pre- “Everyone knows he’s one to arrive before next mier League for years to come of the best coaches in the world. season. under the astute leadership of To achieve what he has achieved But De Bruyne Pep Guardiola. in the game is special and to be believes the cur- City were confirmed as part of a group of players led rent City squad English champions on Sunday by him can only help us to keep is already well with a record-equalling five developing,” De Bruyne said. placed to games to spare after Manches- “He came in two years ago build on this ter United crashed to a shock 1-0 and changed the way we play. season’s defeat against struggling West That obviously takes time to achieve- Bromwich Albion. adapt to but we’ve developed ments. Belgium midfielder De together and this season is a “It’s no Bruyne has been one of the reward for all that work. coincidence standout players in City’s re- “What we want to do now that the type of cord-breaking campaign, but he is continue playing the way we players brought in knows Guardiola was the mas- have this season and become over the last year or termind behind their triumph. even stronger. He’s a big part of two have all been of a City’s top priority in the that and hopefully these can be similar age and we will look close-season will be securing his first trophies of many here to build as a group together. The Kevin de Bruyne predicts glittering the services of former Bayern at City.” feeling amongst the squad is future for English champions Munich and Barcelona chief Backed by City’s Abu Dha- great,” he said.—AFP Manchester City under manager Pep Guardiola, who also led his team bi-based owners, Guardiola has Guardiola. PHOTO: AFP to League Cup glory in Febru- spent big money to bolster his

Kawauchi becomes Pochettino proud 1st Japanese runner of Spurs success to win Boston LONDON—Mauricio then to try to maximise your po- Pochettino says he is tential,” said Pochettino, whose proud that Tottenham side can still finish second in the Marathon since 1987 have closed the gap on table behind champions Man- the Premier League’s chester City. BOSTON—Yuki Kawauchi be- running 26 years ago.” top clubs as he targets “At Tottenham for us it is came the first Japanese runner He became the first Champions League qualifi- to be brave, to believe, to work in 31 years to win the Boston Mar- Japanese man to win since cation for a third successive hard, to work harder than other athon after besting the men on Toshihiko Seko in 1987, the season. clubs that the people consider Monday with a time of 2 hours, 15 year Kawauchi was born, and are at our level,” said the Ar- minutes, 58 seconds to earn his the ninth Japanese champi- gentine. first World Marathon major title. on overall, with past winners He said Spurs had made Kawauchi endured the including Morio Shigematsu big strides in recent years and coldest start in 30 years, strong in 1965 and Kenji Kimihara in were now consistently challeng- winds and heavy rain to overtake 1966. ing at the top end of the Premier defending champion Geoffrey “I don’t think anyone here League table. Kirui of Kenya in the last mile thought I would win. This race “Now we are there but I and cross the tape over two min- proves that we never know what Tottenham manager Mauricio think for me the most impor- utes in front at the 122nd running can happen in marathon,” Ka- Pochettino is eyeing the tant thing is that we are there of the road race ending at Bos- wauchi said. Champions League for the third with a completely different way, ton’s Copley Square. The Saitama native, who has straight season. PHOTO: AFP or different tools of course, to Kirui finished second in won over 30 marathons and is teams like City or Manchester 2:18:23, and American Shadrack known as the “citizen runner” Spurs, who face Brighton on United,” he said. Biwott was third in 2:18:35. for his work in the prefectural Tuesday, are fourth in the table “You can work unbelievably “I just looked ahead. I just government, was recognized Yuki Kawauchi despite a lower financial outlay hard, you can have these ide- kept looking ahead and ran my by Guinness World Records approaches the than their rivals and playing at as on football as a coach or a best and that’s how I won,” Ka- last month for completing the 24 mile marker of Wembley while their new ground coaching staff,” added Pochet- the 2018 Boston wauchi said. “These were win- highest number of marathons in is built. tino, whose side have 67 points, Marathon. ning conditions for me. This is under 2 hours and 20 minutes.— PHOTO: “In football it’s about this, four fewer than Jose Mourinho’s the happiest day since I started Kyodo News KYODO NEWS it is to be clear who you are and United, in second spot.—AFP