Virus-positive migrant workers in Thailand cause stir Saw Eh Say from KEAN wins Human Rights Tulip Award

RICH PICKINGS Myanmar villagers seek to trade ‘illegal’ antique artifacts

ISSUE 1, VOL. 10, January 1, 2021 l Issued every Thursday l mizzima.com

EDITORIAL

WEEKLY

Editor In-Chief and Managing Director Soe Myint Director Thin Thin Aung Managing Editor Sein Win General Manager Aye Thet Hlaing HR and Admin Manager Aye Mya Oo Editors Win Naing, Julian Gearing, Paul Keenan Assistant Editor Kaung Kin Ko Contributors Sai Wansai, Upendranadh Choragudi, Kaung Kin Ko, Andrew Landen, Andre 2021 Wheeler, Marc Jacob, Venerable Sumedha Bodhi, Brian McCartan, Tom Fawthrop Photographer CRYSTAL BALL Thet Ko, Thura Layout Designer Aung Khaing Min hat can we hope for number of countries where a growing Finance Manager in 2021 in Myanmar number of doctors have reportedly Aye Aye Hlaing and around the world? been having success in providing Promotion Manager Hopefully something various forms of treatment. Going No No Lin Wbetter than 2020. forward, the Myanmar authorities Marketing Manager will have to learn to manage this Nay Zar Aung, April Thae Mar Seinn That is likely to be the sentiment pandemic, and potential future Sales & Marketing Assistant as we leave behind a year in which the outbreaks, in a less destructive way. May Oo Lwin COVID-19 pandemic shook the world Publisher and politics and governance went We should also keep sharply Soe Myint (00081) through troubled transitions. tuned to political developments around the world, particularly when MIZZIMA MAGAZINE As we saw and as we reported, it comes to major shifts in policy Neither this publication nor any part of it may be Myanmar faced trouble with the and development, and beware of reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or pandemic but also saw passage of the transmitted in any form or by any means, shifts of the paradigm encouraged electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording 8 November national election and so by policymakers who seek to use the or otherwise without prior permission from we are looking forward to see how the pandemic as an “opportunity” to push Mizzima Media Co. Ltd. new iteration of the National League through change, telling governments for Democracy-led government to “build back better” or accept a Photos are by Mizzima Unless otherwise credited. © 2015 MIZZIMA All will handle the challenges in 2021. “new normal”. This “change” is not rights reserved Naturally, the pandemic will stand necessarily for the better. centre-stage for a while but there INFORMATION are also the ongoing challenges of As we stumble into 2021, it is Mizzima is owned by Mizzima Media Group and the peace process and a stuttering hard to ignore the shaken economy printed by Pyi Aye Family Press (00892) in , Myanmar. economy to focus on. Nay Pyi Taw will and employment scene in Myanmar. have its hands full with all this. Although there have been predictions Subscriptions and sales in Myanmar that Myanmar will bounce back in Mizzima Weekly is now available in all major Gazing into our crystal ball, the 2021, there are many businesses that venues in Yangon, and Nay Pyi Taw and images are murky but Myanmar’s have been hard hit by the lockdown also available from our main Yangon office. experience of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing strategies, Contact: Mizzima Media Group will be tied in with how other countries not least the service and tourism Mizzima Media Yangon Head Office are handling the pandemic, including industries. It is not hard to foresee Building A3, Wing B, Star City, Kyaik Khauk Pagoda a growing awakening that a vaccine that some businesses and jobs will Road, , . may not be the answer, rather that Mizzima Media Nay Pyi Taw Office never come back. No. 2184-B, Corner of Kysapnadi Street & Sein attention ought to be focused on Pan Pyar Street, Shwe Kyar Pin Ward, Zabu Thiri effective treatment options instead. We would like to take this Township, Nay Pyi Taw Neighbouring , for example, opportunity to wish you a Happy New +95 9421010111 has seen doctors using cheap and Year for 2021. As we say, let’s hope it Email. [email protected] reportedly effective medical options to brings better tidings than 2020. For sales and marketing – [email protected] treat people with obvious symptoms Mobile: +95-9421010111 of the virus. The same can be said in a www.mizzima.com www.mizzimaburmese.com mizzima WEEKLY Wishing Our Readers a Happy New Year!

10 RICH PICKINGS NEWS & INSIGHT Myanmar villagers seek to trade ‘illegal’ antique artifacts 3 EDITORIAL 14 Challenges of Environmental 6 IN FOCUS Conservation Voices of Political Parties During the 2020 Elections 8 NEWS ROUNDUP 16 New multi stakeholder proposal for defamation

10 18 COVID-19 UPDATE Virus-positive Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand cause stir

20 Burying the dead Myanmar’s Muslim COVID-19 volunteers

22 'No hard evidence' new virus variant more contagious: US official 38

4 January 1, 2021 23 WHO Europe to convene members 41 US$1.25 billion earned from the export over new virus variant of finished industrial goods in first two months FY 24 Fears of fresh food shortages mount as UK faces isolation 42 Myanmar economy improving but negative impact from pandemic 26 EU rejects UK fish offer but door still open for deal 43 BUSINESS ALERTS

28 Rohingya women face odyssey of misery CULTURE & LIFESTYLE 30 UN rights expert urges Trump to pardon Assange 44 IN FOCUS

32 CHINA FOCUS 46 Saw Eh Say from KEAN wins Human China’s block on border crossings Rights Tulip Award troubles Nepal 47 Looking after the snake farms 34 Millions facing winter power shortages in China as coal supply 48 Myanmar Navy’s first submarine joins the squeezed fleet on the force’s 73rd anniversary

36 Fruits and vegetables crucial for healthy lives, sustainable world: Guterres 30

38 ETHNIC NEWS ROUNDUPS

39 LAST WEEK IN NAY PYI TAW BUSINESS Cover photo of artifacts buyer 40 Myanmar aims to export 2 million tons of 2020-21 by Nat Ye Hla 46

January 1, 2021 5 6 January 1, 2021 Sightseeing river cruise on Yangon river

eople enjoy the evening on a river cruise on the Yangon River at Yangon on 20 December 2020. The Myanmar Travel Association has launched sightseeing river cruise trips on Yangon River aiming to revive the tourism industry despite the fact that the COVID-19 P“curve” has yet to flatten. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 7 Denmark gives IT equipment to Anti-Corruption Commission

ast week, the Danish Ambassador data collection and analysis unit to Project where the UNODC as the John Nielsen handed over generate reliable data on corruption implementing partner is providing a essential IT equipment to the related matters. Scandasia reported. series of trainings on the assessment, Anti-corruption Commission monitoring and surveying of L(ACC) of Myanmar so the Commission The support is part of the Danish corruption. can establish a computer-based funded Capacity Strengthening

74.5 tons of illegal timbers seized

yanmar authorities have Monday. Illegal logging often occurs in the seized 74.5 tons of illegal area although the authorities have timbers in the southern According to the statement, outlawed all logging operations in the in a week, the confiscations made on Dec. 14 area of Bago Yoma mountain range Maccording to a statement from to 20 within the area of Bago Yoma for a 10-year period starting from the Forest Department under the mountain range included , fiscal year (FY) 2016-2017. Ministry of Natural Resources and hardwood and other types of timbers. Environmental Conservation on

Election expenses of 65 MPs is over 3,500 lakh kyats in Naypyidaw

he total expenses of the 65 according to the sub-commission. in disqualified candidates for election MPs who contested the 2020 they will not be eligible to run in the general election in Naypyidaw Candidates must submit their by-elections. is over 3,500 lakh kyats, election expenses to the relevant Taccording to Aung Soe Win, deputy sub-commissions within 30 days Aung Soe Win said the Union director of the Union Territorial after the results are announced, and Election Commission will form a Election sub-Commission. the relevant sub-commissions must tribunal to announce U Sein Win of submit them to the Union Election People Party as a disqualified person. Among them, Sein Win of the Commission within seven days. People's Party, who ran for the Pyithu Aung Myat Thu Hluttaw seat in Zabu Thiri Township, Failure to submit election did not submit election expenses, expenses by the due date will result

Myanmar team visits India to buy 15 million vaccines doses

Myanmar team has been in address on the night of 24 December purchase of the vaccines next week,” India to buy the COVID-19 regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. she said. vaccines for 15 million Myanmar citizens, said the “Our main focus now is on Aung San Suu Kyi added that high AState Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi. vaccines. Now our team is in India priority will be given to health workers to buy the vaccines for 15 million when it comes to vaccination. She made the remarks in a public people. We will know the details of the Hpoo Ei Ei New 8 January 1, 2021 Myanmar opposes fence posts on Chinese border

hina’s construction of fences contract. Eight posts have already Covid-19 virus and illegal crossings, near border posts between been objected to.” he said. the Chinese side has erected fences Myanmar and China, are around the border with Myanmar, opposed by Myanmar. Thein On November 22 last year, with temporary barbed wire fences as CMin Tun, director of the Boundary they had protested against Chinese well as reinforced structures, officials Division under the Consular and Legal construction of fences, crossing the said. Affairs Department, told (Mizzima) border, near border post BP-125 in eight fence posts on the Chinese side Laukkai Township in the Kokang Self- The Boundary Agreement was do not comply with the two countries' Administered Zone (SAZ), said Ngwe signed on January 28, 1960. border agreement, Do, Laukkai Township Administrator. Phu Ei Ei New "We oppose any breach of To prevent the spread of the

Stimulants worth over 3 million U.S. dollars seized in

yanmar authorities have (CCDAC) Xinhua reported. Monday. seized stimulants worth over 3 million U.S. dollars Acting on a tip-off, the joint anti- The township police have filed in Shan State, according narcotic police force confiscated a case against the suspect, the Mto a statement from the Central stimulants from a truck and arrested statement said. Committee for Drug Abuse Control one suspect in the Loilem township on

Myanmar government reclaims USDP’s land on which KTV exists

he Ministry of Construction has Development Party (USDP), for three “It all went wrong, so the reclaimed the land on which years on a temporary basis, to do government reclaimed the land.” Music Zone KTV is located, said charity and social work on the land. Lower House MP Shwe Hla Win All KTVs and restaurants were T(Thingangyun Constituency). The land Now, the Ministry of Construction ordered to be closed during the is in in Yangon has reclaimed the land because COVID-19 pandemic, but the Music Region. the USDP used the lands for their Zone KTV was operating illegally, and commercial purposes. hundreds of people were infected with In 1996, under the ruling of the COVID-19 in the Music Zone KTV. former military junta led by Senior "Instead of working for the General Than Shwe, the Housing benefits of the people, they sub-leased Zaw Min, owner of the Music Department under the Ministry of the land to other businesses,” said Zone KTV and the manager have been Construction leased the land to the Shwe Hla Win. “Eventually, the group sued under Section 25 of the Disaster Union Solidarity and Development became a political party. This is not in Management Law. Association (USDA), which later line with the principles.” became the Union Solidarity and Soe Thu Aung

January 1, 2021 9 RICH PICKINGS Myanmar villagers seek to trade ‘illegal’ antique artifacts Nat Ye Hla

t was a battle like no other - villagers prove to be rich pickings. Or they can Myanmar where a combination of with catapults firing stones at police provide a passage to jail. poverty and greed encourage the in a dusty field in Minbu Township illegal trade. in . Dark side of the antiques world I Illegal excavation and trading of The bone of contention? Ancient With the ancient Pyu beads black antiques and Pyu beads are popular antique artifacts, typically small market booming in recent years, in central Myanmar where ancient enough to hold in the palm of your the illegal excavation and trading of civilizations used to exist. Ancient hand. antiques and Pyu beads clash with burial sites from the Bronze Age the Myanmar government’s efforts to and Iron Age or Pyu civilization in The clash took place on 10 conserve and protect antique objects. , Magway Region and October 2020 as 300 villagers tried to Region have been targeted repel police who had come to try to Police patrols during the by villagers in search of antiques and uphold the law. COVID-19 pandemic in the ancient city beads which were buried together of Bagan aimed at protecting ancient with the bodies in those days. For dirt poor villagers, ancient artifacts might get media attention, artifacts dug out of the ground can but there are many other parts of There had been many cases in

An artifacts dealer, right, examines a selection of artifacts at a stall in Nay Pyi Taw. Photos: Na Ye Hla

10 January 1, 2021 which the villagers were arrested and faced legal action for excavating antiques including ancient bronze weapons, iron weapons, pots and beads from the graves and selling them to illegal traders and smugglers.

Village clash

In the case that happened on 10 October, 2020, the police were attacked with catapults by about 300 villagers as they came to prevent about 300 villagers from excavating an ancient burial site in a field owned by a farmer in Minbu Township, Magway Region.

Generally, to excavate a grave site, villagers have to pay compensation to the owner of the farmland. A digger The discovery of a miniature golden pagoda enshrined in a pagoda can excavate a plot measuring at from Pyu era in Hanlin Pyu ancient city sparked excitement and the 20 feet by 100 feet at the cost of K villager who found it was given an award. 200,000 to K300,000 in search of beads and antiques.

It can be hit or miss. Fortune smiles upon some when they dig up ancient beads in a plot, whereas others gain little or possibly small beads that are hardly worth the sweat and toil.

Farmers face drought

The possibility of making a profit from hidden treasure in the ground is attractive to farmers who have been suffering due to drought.

“We are doing this illegal business under threat of prison,” said Kyaw Win (a pseudonym), a farmer from Magway who has turned to searching for Pyu beads and antiques in grave sites in Magway Region.

He and others had to suspend their illegal operations due to tightened security by the authorities after the clash with police happened recently.

“It is uncertain to gain profits or not from farming crops due to extreme weather, high cost and unstable prices for crops,” Kyaw Win said.

The cost of fuel for pumping up underground water to their farmland is another blow to farmers when the government’s irrigation system cannot supply water to their farmland due to drought and low rainfall in some years.

With the high demand from smugglers, some villagers are resorting to illegal businesses to get Some are genuine, some are fake. by.

January 1, 2021 11 their ruins, however, the ruins of ancient Pyu cities are located across the country.

Ornaments and utensils made of stone, bronze, iron, and earth excavated from the ancient cities show the Pyu people possessed highly polished artistic skills that are now extinct.

Knowledge age

When it comes to antiques, most Myanmar people are familiar with Kongbaung era and colonial era artifacts such as cupboards and Buddha images.

There are a few road side antique There is a lucrative but illegal trade in the genuine ancient artifacts. stalls in Yangon, especially near Bogyoke Market and downtown Yangon which tourists love to visit in normal times. Most of the beads Kyaw Win The statement released by the found are ordinary beads in the shape Ministry of Religious Affairs and About 10 years ago, those who of a watermelon. He has not yet found Culture said the cash award includes had knowledge about antiques and animal beads which have high value. the street value of gold and silver had contacts with foreign buyers, used in the making of the relic and the could make easy money from selling Today, an ordination bead, locally cultural artistic value. antiques. They could come across called watermelon can fetch about valuable antique objects among the 400,000 to K500,000 Kyat. The same The ministry has been raising objects displayed at the road side bead could fetch 4,000 to K5,000 Kyat awareness about conservation of stalls. about 10 years ago. cultural heritage through education and talks especially in areas where Tin Win, a prominent artist and A bead with a rare design can antiques were unearthed by locals a local expert in Pyu artifacts, is one fetch as much as 15 million Kyat today. occasionally. of the collectors who came across antiques, small but valuable. Demand from China also fuels the The illegal excavation and trading illegal market. of antiques are banned in Myanmar He bought a Pyu bead designed by the Protection and Preservation of as a tiger from a roadside shop “About 10 years ago, the bead Antique Objects Law. in downtown Yangon. He did not market was relying on foreigners expect that he would find such kind who came from different countries. The Protection and Conservation of Pyu era tiger-bead and thought But, today, there is a black market of Antiquities Law states that anyone that that might be an imitation or with smugglers from China involved who attempts to bring or transport fake one. According to the antique in a market for beads,” a local bead “antiquities” overseas without communities, animal beads from the collector from Yangon told Mizzima. permission, or who destroys or Pyu era are very valuable. collects them for business purposes, Protecting heritage sites could face a five to ten year prison “When I checked the bead under a magnifying glass at my home, I found Protecting ancient heritage sites sentence, as well as fines. out it was an authentic one. It means is proving a touch call, particularly in Under current laws protecting the value of the tiger bead has spiked dirt poor agricultural regions where Myanmar antiquities, artifacts more to many times more than the price I families struggle to stay afloat. than 100 years old are protected paid to the seller,” he said. A discovery of a miniature golden and cannot be sold or transferred In another case, an antique given pagoda enshrined in a pagoda from without permission from the relevant for free by the seller to a buyer who Pyu era in Hanlin Pyu ancient city governmental departments. bought a number of items turned out state, which has been listed in the The ruins of the three Pyu city to have high artistic value and a high world heritage list, has become the states in Myanmar were designated financial value. first ever Pyu-era miniature stupa in as a UNESCO world heritage site last the city. year, coinciding with an exhibition Township find The local authorities awarded where some statues excavated from the Pyu sites were displayed for the In another case Pyu golden over 11.9 million Kyat to a villager artefacts including ear plugs and who handed over the cultural heritage first time at the Metropolitan Museum in New York. beads were discovered in a village in which was found by the farmer from Myaung Township, Sagaing Region by the relics chamber of a pagoda which In Myanmar, people mainly a villager. collapsed. The object – just a few know of the three Pyu city states of inches in height – was handed to the Sri Ksetra, Beikthano and Hanlin and Two days after a report on this authorities on 20 September 2020. surfaced in social media, the same 12 January 1, 2021 story appeared in the state-run and into private collections. and sent to the buyers. This is being Myanma Alin daily. The three- done in the black market. paragraph report sent from a staff It is not easy to stem the tide member of the local Information because mobile phone technology As Minbu Township farmer Kyaw and Public Relations Department is makes the illegal trading of artifacts Win suggests, the financial rewards ambiguous because the first para said very easy. The looters from central outweigh the threat of fines or a villager found the artifacts while Myanmar can send the photos of the imprisonment. he was bathing in the river. The third artifacts to smugglers in Yangon, in paragraph said the artefacts were Mandalay or in borders areas via a “We stopped this excavation for a found by six villagers. smart phone and the smuggler can while because the authorities noticed make the payment via Wave money our activities after the Minbu case. The report concluded with the or another form of digital payment. We will return to excavation once the information that the artifacts have The beads are easily smuggled, for situation favours us,” he said. been handed over the local authorities example in an assorted biscuits box and they will be transferred to the Archaeology Department.

Regarding the artifacts found on social media and in the state-run daily, Tin Win, confirmed that some are authentic with a high artistic value. But, some are fake, he said.

He assumed that some villagers tried to trick the authorities because the cash award offered by the archaeology department is higher than the price of a golden artifact because the department added the value of ancient art to the value of gold.

Asked how the archaeology department examined ancient artefacts to know if they are authentic or not, an official of the department said on condition of anonymity that the department's experts examined every artifact and also send them to the Ministry of Mining for checking authenticity of gold or other minerals used in the making of the artifacts.

Way forward?

For now, a cat and mouse game continues to be played between villagers and middle-men on the one side and the authorities on the other – one side seeking to profit and put food on the table and the other seeking to preserve Myanmar’s cultural and historical heritage.

To prevent and disrupt illegal excavations and trafficking of ancient artifacts, the authorities of the Archaeology Department conducts educational talks aimed at raising awareness about ancient artifacts and laws.

At the same time, tough methods are also used as seen in the police being used in the recent Minbu Township incident.

What is happening is that some artifacts are handed over to the authorities while many others are The artifacts come in all shapes and sizes. slipping beyond Myanmar’s borders January 1, 2021 13 Challenges of Environmental Conservation Voices of Political Parties During the 2020 Elections

Upendranadh Choragudi

s the November 2020 climate change and environment fifty per cent of the political parties. elections bestowed a defines the development pathway that renewed and larger mandate the country is going to adopt and they An enumeration of environmental for NLD to govern the country, do not warrant any partisan approach issues identified by the ethnic political Aissues of environmental conservation rather they have to accommodate the parties indicate that they are varied and climate change adaptation are long term sustainability and resilience and diverse, and communities are expected to receive specific attention of communities. A consensual concerned with about 28 issues that in its second term. approach to environment and climate affect their lives. Unsustainable change is required for Myanmar to logging, fishing, oil and gas, and In the run up to the 2020 move forward and meet the SDGs. mining activities, unsustainable large elections, political parties, including scale plantations (banana cultivation, NLD has pledged to address some of It is in this context, how the the pressing issues and work towards political parties articulated issues of mitigating the adverse impacts of environment and climate change in environmental degradation and their manifestos and party pledges climate induced disasters. Especially before the electorate during the parties from ethnic states have 2020 elections assumes significance. shown greater concern on issues . An analysis carried out by an of land, forests and environment environmental think-tank ALARM on management. the positions of political parties on environment is first of its kind that Myanmar’s sustainable explains the seriousness and resolve development plan gives emphasis of political parties. It can form basis on protecting the environment. for building consensus on some of the Sustainable use of land, forest and issues like investment decisions that marine resources would boost the factor in environmental and climate economic development as well as change impact on communities. employment. Over the past four years the government has put in ALARM’s analysis covering 15 place institutional mechanisms and political parties, of them ten being has developed action plan for climate ethnic parties points out that a change mitigation. This is one area that majority of them have expressed has received significant appreciation commitments on preserving and and at the same time remains an protecting environment and sought agenda of contestation as Myanmar’s to address issues of land and climate major environment issues are related change. It is interesting to note that to natural resource exploitation. UN for a significant majority of political agencies and development partners parties, agriculture development, have facilitated processes for climate governance of mineral resources change policies, strategies and action and land issues formed part of their plans and supported adaptation and political pledge before the electorate. in identification of solutions. However Emerging climate change crisis in contentious issues still remain terms of scarcity of water resources, on the table which seeks political transportation and pollution problems solutions, accommodating views of all have been identified as issues by concerned. few political parties. While there are environmental issues that warrant a The post COVID-19 economic national level response, there are state recovery also puts significant strain on specific issues, especially in relation to the public policy in terms of balancing land and natural resource governance environmental concerns with that that were sought to be addressed by of economic growth. Challenges of the ethnic political parties. Broader infrastructure development, power and national environmental issues and energy investments, mining and such as resource disputes, decline in forest resource use would call for agricultural production, increasing climate friendly investments, green natural disasters, energy shortages, technologies and resilience of the increasing (polluting) industrial communities that are going to be projects in industrial zones, and affected. Resolution of issues of deforestation were also mentioned by 14 January 1, 2021 oil palm, rubber), natural disasters like and accountable governance of would give right signal for the policy floods and land slides, land disputes environment, fair division of power makers in addressing the issues and and confiscation, polluting industries and authority for states/regions to build consensus in finding solutions. formed important issues raised by address environment management Accommodating the voices of all ethnic parties across the states of the and inter-generational justice in stakeholders becomes essential and country. It is interesting to note that environmental governance. Respect expression of political parties can be some of the national parties like NLD for customary laws that govern land seen as a first step in that direction. are also conscious of these issues and and environment, and adoption of It is contingent upon the upcoming sought to address them. green technologies and renewable government led by NLD to take on energy sources, green urban spaces, board views expressed by ethnic A striking feature according to waste management also figured in as parties and other national parties in ALARM study on electoral pledges aspirations of the political parties to addressing environmental and climate is that most political parties have build a sustainable future. change issues to the satisfaction expressed their commitment of all stakeholders. A closer citizen to address the issues in generic Given that Myanmar’s trajectory engagement and monitoring is also terms. This necessitates the need of development is heavily dependent necessary in order to ensure that the for more deeper understanding of on natural resource extraction, commitments made by the parties are issues for identification of solutions sustainable and responsible practices translated into reality. that work for many, especially the are critical in order to balance the affected communities. Some of economic growth with environmental the other issues highlighted by conservation. Views of all political political parties include transparent parties and their commitments

Most political parties have made a commitment to address issues related to climate change. In Myanmar that often is seen in the extremes of drought and flooding. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 15 New, multi-stakeholder proposal for defamation reform launched

EM last month launched revenge and censorship, others that specific and would deliver the positive a proposal for reform of they undermine anti-corruption change we need. We looked at the Myanmar’s oppressive efforts, and yet more are concerned defamation reforms made in other defamation laws. The proposal that the government’s limited budget countries, such as Sri Lanka, India, F- developed in consultation with MPs is being wasted on funding individuals’ Maldives, and the UK, and consulted and businesses, and endorsed by 50 complaints,” she added. with their judges too,” she added. leading CSOs - advances four options to remove one of the greatest barriers “This proposal includes four The proposal is launched as a to Myanmar’s democratic transition. options: adopting a civil defamation report, a new micro-site, and on social law, adding stronger defences to media. FEM is actively encouraging “This reform proposal would end the Penal Code, removing all prison other CSOs, NGOs, INGOs, media years of oppressive, anti-democratic, sentences, and limiting cases to organisations, law firms, and others and scandalous criminal cases under deliberate and serious defamation to endorse the proposal and support 66(d) and Myanmar’s five other only. These options were designed reform. defamation laws. It should be a priority to be of various levels of legislative for the new government as it is the difficulty so that the new government This proposal follows on from greatest barrier to democratisation and new MPs have flexibility in solving FEM’s review of the impact of 66(d) in Myanmar,” said FEM Director, Yin the defamation issue,” she added. after the Telecommunications Law Yadanar Thein. was amended, and from FEM’s review “This proposal is serious. We of Myanmar’s legal framework for “Stakeholders from all spent two years consulting with defamation compared to international backgrounds are somehow unhappy Myanmar’s civil society, media, standards. with Myanmar’s six defamation laws. lawyers, judges, and MPs to make Somebelieve that they facilitate sure that the proposal was Myanmar-

Too many people end up in jail for an offense that could be handled in a fairer way. Photo: De An Sun

16 January 1, 2021 January 1, 2021 17 COVID-19 UPDATE Virus-positive Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand cause stir

he discovery of Myanmar It is unclear how many of the least according to official figures. Total migrant workers with the 700 Myanmar migrant workers have COVID-19 positive figures for Thailand COVID-19 virus in a shrimp the virus and how many have tested stood at 5,716 as this magazine went market in Mahachai in Samut positive, an important distinction. to print. TSakhon, a province southwest of But the shock discovery has rattled Bangkok, has sparked alarm and Thailand’s good track record in The reasons why Thailand’s promoted a clampdown by the Thai tackling the spread of the virus with experience with the pandemic authorities. only 60 people dying of it in 2020, at has been markedly different than

Interestingly, Thailand has tended to steer away from mass testing and tended to focus on those ill with the virus, linking this with efforts to track and trace.

18 January 1, 2021 Myanmar’s are unclear. The Myanmar symptoms. In these cases, the Thai workers in Thailand, or those stuck Ministry of Health and Sports authorities moved fast to track, trace in Myanmar wanting to come back to reported, as this magazine went to and test people who they could work in Thailand’s slowly improving press, that COVID-19 cases stood at identify as having come in contact economy. 120,546 with a total of 2,552 deaths. with the women. Interestingly, Thailand has tended The Thai authorities say a total of to steer away from mass testing and Unfortunately, all these recent 56 Myanmar workers were arrested in tended to focus on those ill with the cases have prompted the Thai Mae Sot on their way to return home virus, linking this with efforts to track authorities to clamp down on without permission, according a DVB and trace. Myanmar migrant workers and rush report. In Thailand, migrant workers to try to block border crossings. are banned from traveling to other This was seen in the case of a There is a sizeable element of the provinces during COVID-19 and if number of Thai women who visited Thai population who are fearful of the they want to return home, they must Tachilek in Myanmar over the last pandemic flaring up and are keen to pre-register with the relevant labour couple of months and who came back keep Thailand closed. All this makes ambassadors. with the virus, eventually displaying it harder for the Myanmar migrant

Factory workers wait to get tested for COVID-19 at a factory in Thailand. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 19 Burying the dead Myanmar's Muslim Covid volunteers

Lapyae Ko

weating under his protective "That's why we're risking our lives gear, volunteer Sithu Aung lays to do this job." another coronavirus victim to rest -- offering crucial funeral Yangon's Muslim community Srites to his Muslim community in numbers about 350,000 -- seven Myanmar's virus-ravaged commercial percent of the city's population -- and capital. various Muslim associations have provided the volunteers with three For the past few months, the ambulances, two cars and supplies of 23-year-old father and his fellow food. volunteers have been living in a cemetery, isolated from their families, The stigma attached to the as they spend their days collecting the virus means renting an apartment bodies of the deceased from Yangon's to isolate from their families is not overflowing hospitals and quarantine an option, so the team of 15 have centres. commandeered shacks inside the cemetery compound. Without the team's efforts, the bodies would be cremated -- a Clad in full protective suits, practice that is usual in the majority- rubber gloves, goggles and plastic Buddhist nation but strictly forbidden face shields, they work shifts around under Islamic law. the clock, beating a path through Yangon's traffic-choked streets with Thanks to them, the dead instead flashing emergency lights and sirens. receive a short funeral conducted by a local imam at a Muslim cemetery, in 'Crying under our goggles' the presence of a handful of socially distanced immediate relatives. For months, Myanmar remained relatively unscathed by the pandemic, "I get satisfaction from the registering fewer than 400 cases happiness of their families and nationwide by mid-August. knowing that Allah sees what we're doing," former shopkeeper Sithu Aung But that all changed when case tells AFP. numbers started to surge in a country with one of the weakest healthcare

Thanks to them, the dead instead receive a short funeral conducted by a local imam at a Muslim cemetery, in the presence of a handful of socially distanced immediate relatives.

20 January 1, 2021 systems in the world. When the city first went into coronavirus victims, however, he says lockdown in April, he chose not to tell he is no longer afraid of death. There are now over 100,000 his family about his plans to volunteer. infections, with more than 2,000 But he admits the emotions can deaths. "If I'd have let them know, my still be overwhelming. mum and my wife wouldn't have let Myanmar's teeming commercial me do it," he admits, adding his family "I feel sorry that family members hub Yangon became a virus hotspot sometimes visit him at the cemetery, can't see the faces of their loved and Sithu Aung's team now collects although they keep their distance. ones," he says, soaked in sweat after three or four bodies every day. peeling off layers of protective gear. Sithu Aung helped bury They work a rotational shift: two Myanmar's very first coronavirus "Some days we also cry under our weeks on, then a week's self-isolation victim, a 69-year-old Muslim man, and goggles." that allows Sithu Aung to spend a few remembers his fear of touching the days with his wife and one-year-old body. son before he returns to his macabre work. After helping to bury dozens of AFP

Bus passengers - wearing protective clothing - on a bus traveling from Sittwe to Yangon. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 21 'No hard evidence' new virus variant more contagious: US official

t is not yet certain whether the new impression of a surge when they did. On the question of coronavirus variant discovered in contagiousness, in order to determine Britain is more contagious, but the "There is no hard evidence cause and effect, experiments would US is conducting studies to learn that this virus is actually more need to be carried out on animals Imore, a top official said last week. transmissible, (but) there is clear in which they are co-housed and evidence that there is more of it in the deliberately infected, he said. Moncef Slaoui, chief advisor to population," the vaccine scientist and the Operation Warp Speed vaccine former pharmaceutical executive said. This would show the level of program, added he expected that viral load required to infect another lab experiments would show the "It may be just seeding happened animal. new strain would respond to existing in the shadows and we're seeing vaccines and treatments. now a surge, or maybe it has higher The National Institutes for transmissibility." Health (NIH) had begun lab studies While several countries have shut on the variant to determine whether their borders to Britain, Slaoui said "What's clear is it's not more antibodies against the more dominant it was possible the variant has long pathogenic," he continued, meaning strain of Covid-19 will be effective been prevalent in the United Kingdom it hasn't been shown to cause more against it, said Slaoui. -- but that scientists had not begun severe disease. looking for it until now, creating the "Which is very likely the expected outcome," he said.

The tests will use antibodies taken from recovered patients, antibodies raised by vaccines, and synthetic lab-made antibodies, and would take a few weeks to carry out.

Slaoui added he was optimistic that antibodies produced in response to Covid-19 vaccines would continue to be effective, because they bind to several "epitopes" or regions of the spike protein.

The spike protein is the three- dimensional surface molecule the virus uses to invade human cells, and is what gives the microbe its crown or "corona" like appearance.

The chances that a single mutation would alter all these regions at once are "extremely low," he said.

But, he cautioned: "Whether someday, somewhere, a virus may turn out to escape the protective response produced by the vaccine is impossible to exclude, so we have to remain absolutely vigilant."

In related news, the NIH is also planning a clinical trial involving highly allergic individuals to see how they respond to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, said Slaoui.

The move comes after several people across the US and Britain had allergic reactions to the Pfizer vaccine. The alleged new variant of the COVID-19 virus has sparked a panic and a number of countries have imposed restrictions on flights from the UK. Photo: EPA AFP

22 January 1, 2021 WHO Europe to convene members over new virus variant

he World Health Organization the situation and take associated to "increase the sequencing of in Europe said last week it questions," the spokeswoman said. SARS-CoV-2 viruses where possible would convene its members and sharing of sequence data to discuss how to handle a The WHO's European region internationally, in particular, to report Tnew variant of the novel coronavirus comprises 53 countries, including if the same mutations of concern are discovered in the UK. Russia and several Central Asian found." nations -- a region that has registered Hans Kluge, WHO's regional nearly 24 million Covid-19 cases and Dozens of countries from India to director for Europe said on Twitter over 500,000 deaths. Argentina have banned flights from that the organisation was closely Britain in fear of the new virus strain, monitoring the spread of the new Kluge said "limiting travel to which is reportedly 70 percent more variant and would "convene member contain spread is prudent until we contagious. states to discuss strategies for have better info," but cautioned that testing, reducing transmission & "supply chains for essential goods According to the WHO there is communicating risks." and essential travel should remain currently "no evidence to indicate any possible." change in disease severity." "This will be a closed, expert meeting, not a planning meeting, Over the weekend, WHO Europe and is an opportunity for UK health urged stronger action to contain the authorities to provide an update on new strain and called on members AFP

According to the WHO there is currently "no evidence to indicate any change in disease severity." Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 23 Fears of fresh food shortages mount as UK faces isolation Véronique Dupont

ritain could face a shortage The giant Sainsbury's poses difficulties for UK capacity to of fresh produce and greens supermarkets chain sought to strike a import and export key goods during due to transport chaos at the reassuring note, saying: "All products the busy Christmas period," Opie said. border as tortuous Brexit for the Great British Christmas lunch Btalks linger and more countries shut are already in the country and we "While goods can enter from borders after the emergence of what have plenty of these." France, few haulage firms will be is claimed to be a more contagious willing to send trucks and drivers COVID-19 variant in England. But it warned that "if nothing changes, we will start to see gaps over France last week decided to the coming days on lettuce, some prevent freight travelling through salad leaves, cauliflowers, broccoli the key port of Dover, through which and citrus fruit -- all of which are 10,000 heavy goods vehicles pass imported from the continent at this each day. time of year."

The decision, initially set to James Sibley, head of international last for 48 hours, caused Britain to affairs at the UK's Federation of Small bring forward "Operation Stack", the Businesses (FSB), said: "This morning contingency plan drawn up to deal we heard evidence which pointed, with anticipated freight tailbacks on even in the event of a Brexit deal, to roads around Dover in the event of a potential food shortages and price no deal Brexit. rises."

"Retailers have stocked up on As the clock ticks down to Brexit, goods ahead of Christmas which the country has already had a taster: a should prevent immediate problems. logjam at seaports has lasted several However, any prolonged closure weeks, disrupting supply chains. of the French border would be a problem," said Andrew Opie, director "The closure of France to UK at the British Retail Consortium. traffic, including accompanied freight

As the clock ticks down to Brexit, the country has already had a taster: a logjam at seaports has lasted several weeks, disrupting supply chains.

24 January 1, 2021 across to the UK without a guarantee exports of UK food and drink," said to get it resolved." they can return to the EU in a timely Ian Wright, CEO of the Food and Drink manner," he said. Federation. Paul Mummery, a spokesman for the Road Haulage Association (RHA), Only 10 days are left until January Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told Sky News: "We are urging people 1 when Britain will leave the EU single said 20 percent of the UK's daily not to panic buy because the supply market and customs union and hopes imports came through Dover and chain is resilient." of securing a new arrangement Folkestone. suffered a blow as another deadline "There is plenty of stuff to go went by with negotiators still unable He told the BBC: "6,000 lorries around at the moment, there will be to reach a deal. that would have been expected at plenty of toilet roll, pasta, flour" but Dover today or the Eurotunnel. Those added: "If this goes beyond 48 hours it 'Serious disruption' lorries won't be crossing but there's will be more of an issue." probably 32,000 lorries coming by all "Yesterday’s suspension of means of transport," he said. accompanied freight traffic from the UK to France has the potential "The shops are well stocked. In AFP to cause serious disruption to UK the short term this is not an issue in Christmas fresh food supplies – and terms of supply but we are very keen

Trucks were blocked from crossing the Channel last week in the UK. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 25 EU rejects UK fish offer but door still open for deal Clément Zampa and Peter Eber

he EU has rejected the latest phased in over three years. EU ambassadors. UK offer on fishing but is ready to pursue a post-Brexit trade The EU had suggested a level of "However, differences on deal even beyond the end of 25 percent, and over six years. fisheries remain difficult to bridge. Tthe year, diplomats said last week. Unfortunately, the UK is not moving But crucially the British offer enough yet to clinch a fair deal on According to sources in a meeting did not include "pelagic fish" -- those fisheries." of ambassadors, EU negotiator Michel that swim freely away from coasts or Barnier said he could not guarantee the seabed -- and had not addressed Fair trade there would be a deal but that the inshore fishing at all. EU's "door will remain open". Before heading into the closed If the loss of access to pelagic door meeting, Barnier told reporters: Britain was due to leave the species is included the EU would lose EU single market at midnight on 60 percent of its current catch, they December 31, 2020. said.

The only way for any agreement "In other words quite far outside to go into effect before then is if the the mandate of the EU negotiator," member states agree to apply it one EU source said, adding: "Barnier provisionally -- pending the approval has not asked for his mandate to of the EU parliament. change."

Britain has rejected the idea of Member states with northern continuing talks next year. fishing fleets like France, Denmark and the Netherlands are holding "EU negotiators are in a last push strongest on fish, but the EU remains now to make progress and to clinch broadly united, sources said. a deal acceptable for both sides," Barnier said, according to several In addition to fish, members are European diplomats. concerned about UK attempts to set time limits on some rules to ensure "The EU will not close its door to fair competition in business and the UK and remains ready to negotiate regulate state subsidies. even beyond January 1." "Progress has been made. Most According to the diplomats, issues are preliminarily closed or close Britain had suggested EU access to UK to being agreed," another diplomat fish stocks be reduced by 35 percent, said, recounting Barnier's briefing to

Britain was due to leave the EU single market at midnight on December 31, 2020.

26 January 1, 2021 "We are really in the crucial moment, without a follow-on trade deal. and around the world cut travel links and we are giving it the final push. to Britain. Tariffs would be reimposed on "In 10 days the UK will leave the cross-Channel trade in food and The EU is scrambling to come single market and I will continue to goods, exacerbating the economic up with a coordinated response work." shock of a return to a customs border after cross-channel traffic was left after 47 years of integration. snarled as France shut down entry for The EU envoys welcomed this, passengers and goods. but one warned: "Barnier was unable On Monday, British Prime to tell member states whether there Minister Boris Johnson and EU chief Ambassadors from the bloc's 27 would be a deal tomorrow, before Ursula von der Leyen held a crisis call members were seeking to hammer Christmas, the New Year or summer to discuss the Brexit talks but failed to out a joint plan to allow cargo to start 2021. make progress. moving again and EU nationals to return home. "Also a narrow path might in the Travel ban end prove a dead end," he said Von der Leyen's Commission The eleventh-hour talks have has recommended that blanket bans A colleague from another also been overshadowed by the be discontinued in order to allow member state suggested that if there fast-moving crisis over the new essential passenger travel and freight was no breakthrough on Wednesday coronavirus strain found by London. shipments to resume. talks could resume next week. Amid reports the new strain If Barnier and his UK counterpart might spread more quickly than David Frost fail, the UK will leave previous ones, 40 countries in Europe AFP

The issue of fishing in waters around the UK is contentious. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 27 'What choice do we have?' Rohingya women face odyssey of misery Sam Jahan, Haeril Halim and Sam Reeves

tay in a squalid refugee camp - Rohingya man who lives in Kuala Absent grooms hopeless, starving, and made to Lumpur. feel a burden - or leave, risking Arranged marriages are part death, rape, human trafficking She has seven other siblings, and of Rohingya custom, but in the Sand months at sea to reach a husband the family had to share and survive on Bangladeshi refugee camps, families you've never met. twice-monthly 25-kilogram (55-pound) have little income and struggle rations of rice. to afford the traditional dowries This is the bleak choice many required. Rohingya women, already scarred Ara has never met the man from fleeing violent persecution in she married via phonecall from the Virtual weddings and Myanmar, are now facing. refugee camp but, after mounting international betrothals can seem an pressure from relatives to seek him ideal solution. As conditions deteriorate in out, decided to leave. increasingly overcrowded Bangladeshi At just 18, Somuda Begum was refugee camps, desperate parents She is one of the thousands of regarded as getting "too old" for are marrying off their daughters Rohingya, who are stateless and marriage by relatives, and while to Rohingya men thousands of cannot travel abroad legally, forced to proposals came from some families kilometres (miles) away in Malaysia. put their faith in husbands they don't within the camp, they all demanded "a know and the people smugglers paid lot of money". Wed by phone or video apps, to transport them. the girls have little say in such unions "My parents couldn't fix my and rely on occasional calls to build a Her clandestine route took her marriage as my old father barely had relationship with their new partners via rickshaw to port, and from a small any money to pay for a wedding. So he as they begin treacherous journeys to boat to a packed, dilapidated trawler. thought it would be better to send me reach them. to Malaysia instead," she said. But Malaysia denied it entry "My parents kept asking me to and "after floating at sea for two Begum, one of 11 children, was find a way to reach Malaysia -- living months and seeing many people die, shown a photo of her prospective with them, I was just an extra mouth we returned to the place where we husband before the pair wed via video to feed," explained Jannat Ara, talking started," the 20-year-old told AFP from call -- her in-laws and an imam were about her marriage to Nur Alam, a the Bangladeshi camps. present in her family's shack for the

A Rohingya refugee family in Malaysia. Photo: AFP

28 January 1, 2021 "ceremony", her fiance on screen with And while they may share a that, once travel curbs are eased, his friends. religion with about 60 percent of they will be able to quietly cross to the population, they frequently face neighbouring Malaysia. But the journey into the unknown discrimination and harassment. held some appeal. She says her fiancee sends money Most are unable to find local when he can, but conceded that "he "I often got frustrated hearing wives due to the stigma attached to has no plan to come here for me". my mother and neighbours saying marrying a refugee with few prospects I was too old. I had no reason to say or social standing. Domestic violence threat no. And deep inside I felt a bit happy that finally I would go and start my "It's very hard to find a wife in Glorene Das, executive director of own family, away from this chaos," Malaysia. Malays don't want to marry Tenaganita, an NGO that works with she said. (us)," explained Mahumudul Hasson migrants and refugees in Malaysia, Rashid, who fled Bangladesh five said that girls and women remain Betrayed years ago. vulnerable even if they reach their destination. Begum's ageing father, This shortfall of brides is driving Mohammad Ledu, entrusted her to the demand for women and girls from The community is "very closed" a middleman who pledged that for the Bangladesh camps. and, while little formal data exists, 30,000 taka ($350) he would take her she added that domestic abuse is to Malaysia. Lonely men turn to relatives "most definitely" a concern because and matchmakers in the camps to the women have few rights and little Instead, he took the money as organise unions, paying middlemen access to outside help. soon she reached the boat and left between $2,000 and $3,000 to her. smuggle in women by land and boat. "We found cases of forced marriages and child marriages -- it She never reached her husband -- "We do worry about this, but was the parents' decision," Das said. turned away from its destination, the there is no other way. There is no vessel drifted at sea for two months other option since we don't have Once the marriage is formalised, before the Bangladeshi coast guard passports," Rashid said. Rohingya husbands are also expected rescued them. to financially support their in-laws. 'I know it's dangerous' "We all thought she would have a Amerah, 18, has not seen her better life. But all these efforts were in Janu, whose husband is in fiance -- who is a construction worker vain. Now they won't even return the Malaysia, insisted she knew of the in Malaysia -- since she was six. money we paid," Ledu said. dangers before embarking on the journey to join him. "Since the marriage was arranged Charities warn that families in by my parents, I agreed. We cannot go camps can be easily tricked, mistaking "I know it is dangerous but I took beyond the opinion of our parents. I human traffickers and pimps for the decision," the 18-year-old said, have not met my husband since the matchmakers offering brighter adding that while her marriage was last time we saw each other when we futures. arranged by her parents, she went were kids," she explained. voluntarily to start a new life. The increase in attempts at Their courtship was via WhatsApp sailings is driven by desperation at life But her journey turned out to be and social media before she in the camps, where refugee numbers the stuff of nightmares. attempted to travel to join him. have swelled to almost one million since a 2017 military crackdown in Told the trip would take a week, The teenager expected seven mostly Buddhist Myanmar, said Chris she endured a 200-day ordeal as days of sailing -- instead she and her Lewa, director of NGO the Arakan her crowded fishing trawler was fellow passengers were adrift for Project. blocked from landing in Malaysia and seven months, battling sickness and smugglers refused to release those on malnutrition. Many did not survive. "Conditions in Bangladesh board until their relatives agreed to are getting worse, there are more make extra payments. Eventually, the traffickers restrictions on movement, more abandoned them in northern overcrowding," said Lewa, whose "The captain told my husband Indonesia. group tracks Rohingya boat journeys. that if he did not give money, he will torture and kill me and throw me into Listless and alone, having Limbo, stigma the sea," she said. swapped one refugee camp for another, Amerah has little hope for Just over 100,000 Rohingya are As a growing number of the future. currently registered with the United passengers perished and, with no Nations in Muslim-majority Malaysia, hope of reaching their intended "I don't know when I will get but as they are denied citizenship, destination, the smugglers eventually married. I do almost nothing here," they remain in limbo. cut their losses and dumped their she said. human cargo in northern Indonesia. The Rohingya men who have "I will follow whatever I am told to settled have few chances to assimilate Janu and about 300 others do." -- as refugees they cannot legally who survived the voyage now find work and so most take low-paid themselves in another refugee camp construction labour. in Lhokseumawe city but are hopeful AFP

January 1, 2021 29 UN rights expert urges Trump to pardon Assange

UN rights expert last week WikiLeaks "fights secrecy and "In pardoning Mr Assange, urged outgoing US President corruption throughout the world and Mr President, you would send a Donald Trump to pardon therefore acts in the public interest clear message of justice, truth and Julian Assange, saying the both of the American people and humanity to the American people AWikiLeaks founder is not "an enemy of humanity as a whole," Niels Melzer and to the world," said Melzer, the UN the American people". wrote in an open letter. special rapporteur on torture.

People protesting for the release of Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. Photo: EPA

30 January 1, 2021 WikiLeaks "fights secrecy and corruption throughout the world and therefore acts in the public interest both of the American people and humanity as a whole," Niels Melzer wrote in an open letter.

"You would rehabilitate a He noted that Assange suffers courageous man who has suffered from a respiratory condition that injustice, persecution and humilation makes him more vulnerable to for more than a decade, simply for Covid-19, which has infected several telling the truth," he added. Belmarsh inmates.

Assange, 49, is currently being Melzer said Assange "has held in the top-security Belmarsh not hacked or stolen any of the jail in London awaiting a January 4 information he published (but) decision by a British judge on a US obtained it from authentic documents extradition request, in a case seen by and sources in the same way as his supporters as a cause celebre for any other serious and independent media freedom. investigative journalists conduct their work." The Australian publisher faces 18 charges in the United States relating "Prosecuting Mr. Assange for to the 2010 release by WikiLeaks of publishing true information about 500,000 secret files detailing aspects serious official misconduct, whether in of military campaigns in Afghanistan America or elsewhere, would amount and Iraq. to 'shooting the messenger'," Melzer wrote. Melzer has previously condemned the conditions at Belmarsh, saying Rumours have been spreading the "progressively severe suffering through Twitter and other social inflicted" on Assange is tantamount to media that the United States will torture. pardon Assange.

In his letter on Tuesday, Melzer First arrested 10 years ago on wrote: "I visited Mr. Assange... with December 7, 2010, Assange could be two independent medical doctors, jailed for up to 175 years if convicted. and I can attest to the fact that his health has seriously deteriorated, to the point where his life is now in danger." AFP

January 1, 2021 31 china FOCUS China’s block on border crossings troubles Nepal Lee Chen

or a tiny landlocked country order to discipline it in an attempt This was formalized through various like Nepal, logistical routes are to diminish its ties with its adversary treaties and agreements signed post- limited and a small disruption economy - India. annexation that recognized Tibet as can lead to catastrophic being part of Chinese territory and Frepercussions for its economy. China Nepal shares its borders with confirmed the limits of Sino-Nepali has banked upon Nepal’s economic China through the illegal occupation borders. and geostrategic vulnerabilities in of Tibet in 1950 by Chinese forces.

Tension has risen in the Himalayan region in 2020 as Beijing has grown more aggressive in its border regions. Photo: EPA

32 January 1, 2021 Border-crossings are an integral source for food, medicines, etc. for small Nepalese villages and any failure in the supply chain would adversely impact the lives of the thousands dwelling in these lands.

Border-crossings are an integral authorities to all the smooth transit source for food, medicines, etc. for between China and Nepal. The Nepal small Nepalese villages and any failure China Chamber of Commerce and in the supply chain would adversely Industry has requested Chinese impact the lives of the thousands Embassy in Kathmandu to allow dwelling in these lands. While border smooth movement of vehicles crossings between Zhangmu and at Tatopani and Keyrung transit Kodari have been in operation since points. The traders have claimed 1968, newer ports for trade have that Nepalese businessmen are opened up in recent times, particularly disappointed with Chinese restrictions with the signing of the 2012 treaty. on border points, especially as most of the stranded vehicles were carrying China blocked Rasuwagadhi, food items which have now lost their Kerung and Tatopani checkpoints shelf life causing losses to traders. owing to pandemic control measures There is negative sentiment among for over six months this year. Nepali public as prices of essential goods traders have reported huge losses spiraled especially during the festive as trucks were left stranded at the season. checkpoints. The Nepalese Oli-led administration was urged to take China’s statements on the up diplomatic talks to allow the issue have raised questions over movement for essential services as its intimidation tactics yet again. the barest minimum. As Indian high-level visits colored Nepalese grounds over the past few The Tatopani border point months, China has used all possible remained shut since July after ways to communicate its dismay. a massive landslide in the area. This blockade in a time that calls Rasuwagadhi has remained shut since for acquiescence on humanitarian December 2019. Nepalese goods grounds has hit a new low for Sino- have been stuck for over 11 months Nepal relations. Several Nepalese now with no signs of any efforts organizations took to the streets being made to create a conducive to voice out their disapproval of environment for traders to bring Chinese games with the Nepalese in the marooned goods. Both the administration. With billions of losses checkpoints — Rasuwagadhi and in trade and lives at stake, both Tatopani — have closed and reopened governments have not taken any up to six times now. credible steps to solve the blockade issue that is plaguing Nepalese Even after the Tatopani border villages. China’s stance seems was opened on 6 July, Chinese unreasonable at a time when India restricted movement of goods from has maintained flexibility by allowing entering Nepal. Only four containers entry of Nepalese trucks despite a day were permitted to cross the the coronavirus pandemic.China’s borders, and exports from Nepal promise of turning Nepal from a land- are halted since March. According locked country into a ‘land-linked’ to Nepal’s Department of Customs, country is failing miserably. hundreds of containers remain stranded at border checkpoints. Lee Chen is the pseudonym of a writer who reports about Asia and world The traders have made solemn politics representations to the Chinese

January 1, 2021 33 china FOCUS Millions facing winter power shortages in China as coal supply squeezed

ens of millions across China low as -10 degrees Celsius. are facing power shortages in below-freezing winter Office workers in provincial capital temperatures, as three Changsha complained on social media Tprovinces impose curbs on electricity about being forced to climb dozens use due to surging demand and a of flights of stairs and freezing indoor squeezed coal supply. temperatures as a result of frequent power outages. Residents, factories and businesses in Hunan, Zhejiang and "My office heating has already Jiangxi provinces have been ordered been stopped, and there were to ration electricity with some areas blackouts on December 1, 3 and 5. citing a shortfall in coal supplies, Temperatures will drop to minus 8 according to local media reports and degrees around New Year's Day, will I government notices. freeze to death in Hunan?" one Weibo user wrote last week. China's rebound from the Covid-19 pandemic has been driven Meanwhile in Zhejiang province, by energy intensive industries such factories in the manufacturing as construction, heaping pressure on hub of Yiwu have been told to stop the power grid and coal supplies, said operations and streetlights have Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the been turned off at night as part of an Centre for Research on Energy and emissions-saving drive by the local Clean Air. government, according to media reports and photos circulated on Earlier this month, Hunan Weibo. authorities ordered all billboards and outdoor lighting on buildings to power Supply 'largely stable' off for long periods each day and a temperature cap on indoor heating at China's top economic planner, entertainment venues. the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), on Hunan faces a shortfall of 3-4 Monday sought to reassure the million kilowatts of electricity this public by saying the electricity supply winter, local officials admitted last is "largely stable", and pledged to week, as demand soars due to increase generation capacity and coal unusually cold weather that will hit as procurement.

China's rebound from the Covid-19 pandemic has been driven by energy intensive industries such as construction, heaping pressure on the power grid and coal supplies, said Lauri Myllyvirta, lead analyst at the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air. 34 January 1, 2021 The power crisis points to the Speculation has swirled online impact on China's thermal coal challenges fast-growing China that the power shortages may be self- supply," said Yan Qin, carbon analyst faces in balancing the needs of its inflicted wound as a result of China's at financial data service Refinitiv. vast population with strict carbon embargo of Australian coal, which has emissions targets promised by its left ships stranded at ports, unable to "But China-Australia tensions leadership. offload large quantities of coal. have caused significant worries in the commodities markets, driving up China - by far the world's biggest However, Australian coal only domestic coal prices." consumer of coal - is pivoting to made up about three per cent of last renewable energy sources to meet a year's total coal imports of 265 million pledge to peak carbon emissions by tonnes, according to data from the 2030 and reach carbon neutrality by National Bureau of Statistics. AFP 2060. "The Aussie ban only had little

A coal-powered power plant in Hong Kong. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 35 COMMENTARY Fruits and vegetables crucial for healthy lives, sustainable world: Guterres

he United Nations is marking In a message launching the diet. They provide the human body 2021 as the International campaign, Secretary-General with an abundance of nutrients, Year of Fruits and Vegetables, António Guterres said that despite strengthen immune systems and help spotlighting their vital role in tremendous benefits of fruits and lower risks for a number of diseases,” Thuman nutrition and food security, vegetables, “we do not consume he said. as well as urging efforts to improve enough of them.” sustainable production and reduce “As the COVID-19 pandemic waste. “Fruits and vegetables are the continues to affect the health and cornerstone of a healthy and varied livelihoods of people across the world,

A Myanmar fruit seller. Photo: Sippakorn Yankarsikorn

36 January 1, 2021 we must come together to ensure that nutritious food, including fruits and vegetables, reaches the most vulnerable, leaving no one behind,” Consuming sufficient, or even the UN chief added. Mr. Guterres also drew attention more than the recommended to the strong links between food systems and sustainable development. He called on all stakeholders to make amounts, of fruit and vegetables food systems more inclusive, resilient and sustainable, including through has many health and nutrition adopting a more holistic approach to production and consumption that benefits human and environmental benefits. health.

“Let us use this International reducing waste, improving nutrition Year to rethink our relationship with and market opportunities. how we produce and consume food, and to re-examine our food systems He outlined the challenges in and commit to a healthier, more improving production and agrifood resilient and sustainable world where chains, and called on countries to everyone can access and afford the use the International Year to improve diverse nutrition they need.” infrastructure, farming practices thereby supporting small scale Health benefits farmers.

Consuming sufficient, or even Alongside, the also emphasized more than the recommended the importance of fruits and amounts, of fruit and vegetables has vegetables as a good way for farmers many health and nutrition benefits. to generate more income. Rich in fibres, vitamins and minerals, fruits and vegetables are crucial for The International Year growth and development of children, and help boost immune systems. The International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021 was proclaimed They are also linked to lower risk by the General Assembly in December of depression and anxiety, obesity 2019 to raise awareness on the and non-communicable diseases; important role of fruits and vegetables promote gut health; and counter in human nutrition, food security micronutrient deficiencies. and health, as well as in achieving Sustainable Development Goals According to the World Health (SDGs). Organization (WHO), people should eat a minimum of 400 grams of fruits It will promote diversified, and vegetables daily, as part of a balanced, and healthy diets and healthy diet. lifestyles through fruits and vegetables consumption, reducing losses and Not eating enough waste in fruits and vegetables food systems, and share best practices. However, due to a number of factors, such as availability, The International Year affordability, or lack of knowledge and complements several other key awareness, many people around the initiatives including the Decade of world consume less than that amount. Action on Nutrition (2016-2025), the Decade of Family Farming (2019- Against this background, Qu 2028), and the Global Strategy on Diet, Dongyu, Director-General of the UN Physical Activity and Health. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) described the International Year as “a unique opportunity to raise Courtesy of UN News global awareness.”

Speaking at a virtual launch event, on Tuesday, Mr. Qu also highlighted the role of digital technologies in January 1, 2021 37 Photo: EPA

KAREN STATE

fficials from the Peace Commission and two ministries have discussed holding a coordination meeting with Karen National Union (KNU) representatives for the implementation of Bawkahta hydropower project at the National Reconciliation and Peace Centre, state media reported. The meeting discussed the KNU’s proposals for Bawkahta hydropower project and holding a coordination meeting with KNU representatives for its Oimplementation. The hydropower project is located in Kyauk Kyi Township, Bago Region.

RAKHINE STATE

hree youths who participated in a campaign in the Arakan State capital Sittwe marking International Human Rights Day were charged under Section 19(a) of the Peaceful Assembly Law on December 21, DMG reported. Ko Min Bar Chay aka Ko Than Hla, Ko Naing Naing Tun and Ma Khaing Myat Thu from the Rakhine Youth New Generation Network have been charged by the head of the Sittwe Township police force, the trio said. More than 30 young Tpeople joined the Sittwe event denouncing human rights abuses to mark Human Rights Day, which is observed globally on December 10.

CHIN STATE

esidents of ’s Paletwa Township say they are facing livelihood difficulties as they have received no response nearly a month after asking the military and Chin State government to reopen waterways and motorways in the township, DMG reported. Travel along the waterway linking Kyauktaw and Paletwa has been suspended for more than a year due to clashes between the Tatmadaw and the Arakan Army, and local authorities have asked Rthat the affected waterway, as well as certain blockaded motorways, be reopened, said U Aung Law Har, the administrator of Paletwa Township.

38 January 1, 2021 Photo: Hong Sar for Mizzima

Social Welfare Minister emphasizes rehabilitation, resettlement activities

nion Minister for Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement Dr Win Myat Aye said that rehabilitation services for human trafficking victims and drug addicts, and the resettlement of IDPs are some of the government’s priorities, according to local news reports. He made the remark in his ministry’s meeting held on 23 December over the review of rehabilitation processes, and future plans of the ministry. During the meeting held in Nay Pyi Taw, Uhe said that his ministry is working to achieve the goals of sustainable development through transparent and effective cooperation with local and foreign NGOs. He added that the rehabilitation and resettlement activities are being linked to the Myanmar Sustainable Development Plan (MSDP). He called on all stakeholders to review the Anti Trafficking in Persons Law (2005) and the Amendments to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act (2018) to continue working together to implement humanitarian demining efforts.

MoHS organizes online seminar 'Healthy and Happy Life in the New Normal Era'

he Ministry of Health and Sports and the Myanmar Women’s Sports Federation jointly held “Healthy and Happy Life in the New Normal Era” online seminar on 19 December, according to the state-run newspaper The Global New Light of Myanmar. During the seminar, they discussed how to conduct sports events in the post-COVID-19 period. Myanmar Women’s Sports Federation also explained about their fitness dance programmes across Myanmar Tunder the “Exercise is Medicine (EIM)” theme. Deputy Minister Dr Mya Lay Sein, in her capacity as Patron of Myanmar Women’s Sports Federation, explained activities of the federation especially for women, expectant mothers and female athletes. She also discussed plans for the New Normal Life-style of the general public.

January 1, 2021 39 Myanmar aims to export 2 million tons of rice 2020-21

he Myanmar government aims said last month. of the ministry's trade promotion to achieve the export target department. of 2 million tons of rice and "Rice export depends on domestic broken rice in fiscal year (FY) market price and export demand. Myanmar surpassed its rice T2020-2021 beginning October, an Myanmar managed to export around export target of 2.5 million tons in last official from the Ministry of Commerce 2 million tons of rice in previous FY 2019-2020, showed data from the fiscal years," said Myo Thu, director Myanmar Rice Federation.

Photo: Andhika Wiguna

40 January 1, 2021 1.25 billion USD earned from the export of finished industrial goods in first two months FY

yanmar earned over 1.25 Commerce Ministry, Xinhua reported. among other exports. billion U.S. dollars from the export of finished industrial As of Dec. 11, the finished This year FY's figures decreased goods in over first two industrial goods or manufacturing by over 819 million U.S. dollars, Mmonths of present fiscal year (FY) goods sector topped the list with compared to the same period of FY 2020-2021 which started in October, the most export value, followed 2019-2020 when it registered over according to figures released by the by agriculture and mineral sectors 2.07 billion U.S. dollars.

Photo: Dominik Luckmann

January 1, 2021 41 Myanmar economy improving but negative impact from pandemic

he Myanmar Business all parts of the country. The only within the same state or region than Environment Index (MBEI) sub-index to decline was law and among the states and regions as a for 2020 indicates that while order. whole. And using the ability of the there have been negative MBEI to track changes over time, Teffects from the COVID-19 pandemic As might be expected, Yangon The Asia Foundation has conducted the overall trend for business and the Region, the country’s economic centre, two additional surveys, in 2020, to economy in Myanmar is on the up. came out on top in the overall ranking study the effects of Covid-19 on the of states and regions, followed by private sector. Thus far, the impact on The recently released MBEI Sagaing and Bago Regions and Nay businesses has been severe, leading findings also show that Myanmar Pyi Taw. No state or region showed a to significant losses of sales and has made progress since the first decline in its overall index, but some profitability. survey. Scores improved on six of improved considerably more than the 10 sub-indices. Among these six, others. The latest report can be infrastructure showed the biggest found at: https://asiafoundation. improvement. The availability of The 2020 MBEI report also org/2020/12/09/hows-business-we- suitably qualified labor improved as includes indices for over 70 townships. have-a-benchmark-for-that/ well. Transparency showed some MBEI scores were found to differ improvement but remains low in more significantly among townships

Photo: Zuyet Awarmatik

42 January 1, 2021 Kaung Kin Ko

135 South Korean companies to invest in KMIC

he groundbreaking ceremony for the Korea-Myanmar Industrial Complex (KMIC) was held in Hlegu Township in Yangon Region on 24 December, according to local news reports. A total of 135 companies from South Korea will invest in the KMIC. Korea is the sixth largest investor in Myanmar, with about US$4 billion invested in 187 businesses as of November this year, according to U Thaung Tun, Union TMinister for Investment and Foreign Economic Relations. The project will be carried out jointly by the Ministry of Construction of Myanmar and the Korea Land and Housing Corporation on 558 acres of land in Hlegu. State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said in the groundbreaking ceremony that the project will create job opportunities, bring prosperity to the people of Myanmar, and strengthen the friendship between the people of Myanmar and Korea. She added that the project will establish an economic foundation for a better future for the people of Myanmar.

British banks in hot water for lending to Viettel with links to Myanmar military

uman rights group Justice For Myanmar (JFM) has demanded that British banks HSBC and Standard Chartered explain why they have lent tens of millions of pounds to Vietnamese telecom giant Viettel, which is partly owned by the Myanmar military, reported The Guardian. The two British banks have loaned $60m (£44.5m) to Viettel, a major investor in Myanmar’s mobile network Mytel, in the last four Hyears, a period when the Myanmar military has been accused of committing genocide and crimes against humanity. Viettel has grown to become the second-biggest operator in the country with over 10 million users. A Myanmar state-owned enterprise, Star High Co Ltd, a subsidiary of the military-operated Myanmar Economic Corporation, has a 28% stake in the network; Viettel’s international telecommunications investment subsidiary, Viettel Global JSC, controls 49%; and Myanmar National Telecom Holdings, representing a group of Myanmar companies, owns 23%.

January 1, 2021 43 44 January 1, 2021 Great hornbill bird takes flight

great hornbill (Buceros bicornis) also called the concave-casqued hornbill and one of the larger members of the hornbill family, flies under a blue sky A in the Bago Region in December 2020. Photo: EPA January 1, 2021 45 Saw Eh Say from KEAN wins Human Rights Tulip Award

Saw Than Htike Oo

aw Eh Say, in-charge of the courageous human rights defenders. a recognition of endeavour which is Kayah Earthrights Action long neglected." said Saw Eh Say. Network (KEAN) in , "This award has a significant was awarded the Human Rights meaning for me. It does not refer to The award was received online STulip Award for 2020 by the Dutch just one person. It is a recognition due to the COVID-19 epidemic, but no Embassy on December 10. of the land sector of the farmers, details have been released regarding ethnic people and ordinary people the prize money said Saw Eh Say. Human Rights Tulip Award is who are more than 70% of Myanmar KEAN was formed in 2012 and is a an annual award given by the Dutch population. Their activities have been local human rights and environmental government to outstanding and going on for decades, this award is rights group in Kayah State.

Saw Eh Say from KEAN. Photo: supplied

46 January 1, 2021 Caring for the snakes

fforts are made to look after the snakes at a snake farm in Yangon. Photos: Thura for EMizzima January 1, 2021 47 Myanmar Navy’s first submarine joins the fleet on the force’s 73rd anniversary

he Myanmar Navy celebrated its 73rd anniversary last week with a display of cruisers and their first submarine. On the occasion of the anniversary of the Navy, seven warships, including the first warship owned by Min Ye Thein Kha Thu, joined the ceremony on the morning of December 24 in Yangon in the Naval Post 3 in Thilawa. India this year gave a Soviet-era Kilo-class submarine to Myanmar, a move that Tmany analysts see as an attempt by New Delhi to counter China's clout in the region, according to analysts. Photos: Thura for Mizzima

48 January 1, 2021 January 1, 2021 49 50 January 1, 2021 Ministry discusses tourism development amidst the pandemic

nion Minister for Hotels and discussed Community-Based The meeting was also attended Tourism Ohn Maung received Tourism in Nay Pyi Taw areas for by Deputy Minister Tin Latt, Director- Nay Pyi Taw Development local and foreign travellers and plans General for Directorate of Hotels and Committee member (2) U Min to follow the criteria of ministry in Tourism Maung Maung Kyaw and UThu, Representative implementing the Community-Based other responsible persons of ministry. for Pyinmana Township Than Soe Tourism to promote the social and Aung and Chairman of Nay Pyi Taw economic status of the local populace, Currently tourism and the Hotelier Association Kyaw Min Tun according to a report by MNA. hospitality industry are hampered in Nay Pyi Taw last week to tourism by the COVID-19 restrictions which development at this particularly They also exchanged views have seen borders closed and hotels difficult period due to the COVID-19 on the exploration of new tourist closed. There are some attempts pandemic. destinations, including proper underway to try to stimulate local functions for ecotourism. tourism at this stage. During the meeting, they

Local tourists in Yangon. Photo: EPA

January 1, 2021 51