Ukraine plane crash death Malaysian embattled PM toll rises to 26 wins in crucial polls

HEARTBEAT OF THE NATION FREE PDF

WWW.MMTIMES.COM DAILY EDITION MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2020

KEEPING THE VIRUS IN CHECK 2 www.mmtimes.com THE MYANMAR TIMES SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 Facts and figures for COVID-19 COVID-19 cases in Myanmar Total number of COVID-19 cases in Myanmar 10000 Confirmed cases

10,734 7500

Deaths from virus Number of cases suspected and 5000 confirmed by tests under investigation 226 13,773 2500

Recovered Number of people who tested negative for COVID-19 2,862* 250,262 0 Source: Ministry of Health and Sports, Myanmar Graphic: Khin Zaw/The Myanmar Times 4.4.2020 8.4.2020 2.5.2020 6.5.2020 3.6.2020 7.6.2020 1.7.2020 5.7.2020 9.7.2020 2.8.2020 6.8.2020 3.8.2020 7.9.2020 23.3.2020 27.3.2020 31.3.2020 12.4.2020 16.4.2020 20.4.2020 24.4.2020 28.4.2020 10.5.2020 14.5.2020 18.5.2020 22.5.2020 26.5.2020 30.5.2020 11.6.2020 15.6.2020 19.6.2020 23.6.2020 27.6.2020 13.7.2020 17.7.2020 21.7.2020 25.7.2020 29.7.2020 10.8.2020 14.8.2020 18.8.2020 22.8.2020 26.8.2020 30.8.2020 11.9.2020 15.9.2020 19.9.2020 23.9.2020 27.9.2020 COVID-19 cases in Rakhine State by township COVID-19 infections in Rakhine State

1500 Sittwe 733 Kyauk Phyu 168 Mrauk-U 90 Maungdaw 61 Pauk Taw 48 1000 Kyauktaw 43 Min Byar 38 Buthidaung 29 Myae Pon 29 Phonnar Kyun 22 500 Thandwe 11 Toungup 10 Rathedaung 6 Ann 4 0 Man Aung 2 Gwa 1 Yanbyae 1 2.6.2020 5.6.2020 8.8.2020 3.7.2020 6.7.2020 9.7.2020 2.8.2020 5.8.2020 8.8.2020 1.9.2020 4.9.2020 7.9.2020

0 150 300 450 600 750 18.5.2020 21.5.2020 24.5.2020 27.5.2020 30.5.2020 11.6.2020 14.6.2020 17.6.2020 20.6.2020 23.6.2020 25.6.2020 27.6.2020 30.6.2020 11.7.2020 14.7.2020 18.7.2020 21.7.2020 24.7.2020 27.7.2020 30.7.2020 11.8.2020 14.8.2020 17.8.2020 20.8.2020 23.8.2020 26.8.2020 29.8.2020 10.9.2020 13.9.2020 16.9.2020 19.9.2020 22.9.2020 25.9.2020 COVID-19 confirmed cases in COVID-19 confirmed Global numbers Yangon region. cases by state and for COVID-19

Insein 656 Thingangyun 578 region in Myanmar North Okkalapa 344 South Ohkala 324 Hlaing 317 Yangon 7395 Tamwe 312 Coronavirus cases: Hlaingtaryar 305 Mingaladon 285 Rakhine 1296 Thaketa 278 33,116,619 Mayangone 261 Kyi Myin Daing 258 Pegu Dala 232 272 Mingalartaungnyunt 225 Dagon Myothit (South) 196 Mon Pabedan 186 244 Dagon Myothit (North) 184 Lanmadaw 165 Mandalay Latha 164 231 Dagon 164 Shwepyitar 154 Ayeyarwaddy Recovered: Bahan 150 220 Than Lynn 144 Kamaryut 143 Nay Pyi Taw Pazundaung 134 104 24,459,158 Botahtaung 129 Sanchaung 124 Tontay 119 Sagaing 54 Dagon Myothit (East) 112 Kyauktada 107 Dawbon 106 Kayin 42 Yankin 104 Alone 103 Dagon Myothit (Seikkan) 78 Magway 37 Kaw Hmue 38 Kayan 31 Deaths: Kunchan Khone 30 Shan 28 Hmawbi 30 Seikkyi Kanaungtoe 29 Kyauktan 28 Tanintaryi 25 999,537 Hlegu 23 Htantapin 21 Thonekwa 16 Chin 22 Htauk Kyant 3 Thaik Kyi 3 Kachin 0 200 400 600 800 22 Source: worldometers.info

Figures as of 6pm September 16 *Includes patients sent home after 14-day quarantine SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 THE MYANMAR TIMES www.mmtimes.com News 3

A total of 27 businesses have been exempted Yangon starts inspecting QR from the stay-home order and their employ- ees are allowed to travel between townships in Yangon. These businesses are: 1. Banks and financial services; 2. Petrol stations; codes of vehicles, people 3. Food and cold storage; 4. Pharmaceutical and medical equipment distribution; NAING AUNG 5. Drinking water distribution; [email protected] 6. Factories producing daily hygiene prod- ucts; OFFICIALS have commenced inspecting driv- 7. Airlines operating relief flights, cargo ers on the road for the appropriate documents flights and chartered flights; required for travel between one township to an- 8. General aviation services; other in Yangon, according to the Yangon City 9. Ground services; Development Committee (YCDC). 10. Aviation fuel providers; “Only those with the right documentation 11. Air transport; and ID will be allowed to pass,” said U Aung 12. Freight forwarders; Nyein Kyaw, chair of Thaketa township YCDC 13. Customs service agencies; office. 14. In-flight catering services; “Roadside inspections have commenced to- 15. Aircraft maintenance services; day (September 27). Our main aim is to enforce 16. Port operators; the stay-home order and stop the spread of dis- 17. Representative offices of shipping lines; ease from one township to another,” he said. 18. Freight forwarding companies at Yangon U Nay Phone Latt, Hluttaw MP of Thingang- Port; yun township, said the checks are to ensure 19. Customs services agencies at the ports; there is no unnecessary traveling. 20. Container transport services; ​“The checks are mainly on the destination of 21. Transport of export/import goods at the the vehicles when they pass from one township Officials checks documentations from the drivers in Yangon on September 27. Photo: Nyan Zay Htet ports; to another to make sure there is no travelling 22. Inland container depots; without any reason. There is still no action such the stay-home order that would like to operate furnished whenever they pass from one town- 23. Dry ports; as arrests taken for now,” he said during this period will need to make an online ship to another. 24. Post offices; Only registered vehicles commuting for se- registration. Online registration can be made at http://QR- 25. Landline and mobile phone communica- lected essential businesses will be allowed to “Those who need to travel for important mat- pass.SawSawShar.gov.mm and for any inconven- tion services; travel from one township from another in Yan- ters must also have letters from their respective iences or further information; the phone num- 26. Internet services (not including vendors gon, according to a September 25 notice from township administrators,” said U Aung Nyein bers to call are 09-694820244 and 09-402790744 selling mobile phones and internet data); the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chamber Kyaw, chair of Thaketa township YCDC office. during office hours. On September 27, the Myan- 27. Services for communication towers and of Commerce and Industry. Once registered, an ID with QR code will be mar Times received complaints that the website fiber networks. Businesses which have been exempted from issued to those businesses and their staff to be has been facing down time. – Translated

‘No smell centres’, quarantine facilities up in Yangon as COVID-19 tops 10,000

HMUE ANGEL a mild symptom of being infected with U Zaw Wai Soe said the Ministry “We discussed with the regional gov- censed Contractors Public (MLCP). YEE YWAL MYINT COVID-19. of Health and Sports selected univer- ernment about converting the unoccu- Aside from the public housing es- [email protected] “I would like to request those peo- sities or schools near hospitals that pied low-cost housings into quarantine tates, newly constructed private hous- ple who lost their sense of smell to go can accommodate up to 500 people centers to expand the COVID-19 treat- ings will be also used as quarantine YANGON is setting up ‘no smell cen- to nearest hospital or clinic, where and can be converted into ‘no –smell ment and lockdown areas,” he said. centers, if the need arise. tres’ in the different townships in a bid they would be referred to the nearest centers’. Several unoccupied government As of Monday, the government re- to arrest the rise of COVID-19 infec- “no-smell centre” to them,” he said. U Min Htein, director-general of housing estates have been converted ported 10,734 infected persons in the tions in Myanmar’s commercial centre “Such patients are not considered Urban and Housing Development De- temporarily into quarantine centres or country, more than two third are from and most populace region. severe cases,” he said. “Only if we iso- partment, said the government will hospitals to accommodate the rising Yangon. U Zaw Wai Soe, rector of the Uni- late them, we will be able to disrupt also convert into quarantine facilities number of infected persons. The government has placed Yan- versity of Medicine (1), Yangon, said the infection cycle. It is very impor- just-completed low-cost housing pro- The plan to convert the housings gon under semi-lockdown since last the centres, which will be operational tant. We have chosen locations in each ject to ensure that infected persons or into quarantine centers is supported week until October 7, in order to con- within 12 days, aim to treat people and every township to accommodate those showing symptoms of the dis- by the Myanmar Licensed Contractors tain that new wave of outbreak that who lost their sense of smell, which is persons suffering from loss of smell.” ease would be properly isolated. Association (MLCA) and Myanmar Li- started in Rakhine on August 16. Stop ‘ridiculous’ treatments, get doctor’s FDA resumes help in treating COVID-19: State Counsellor operations MHUE ANGEL [email protected] KANG WAN CHERN We would be able to give effective treatment to the [email protected] patient only if the virus is detected early. If the pa- THE Food and Drug Administration tient is sent to the hospital only at a later stage of the (FDA) resumed operations last week. WITH the number of positive cases now above infection, it would ve difficult to contain the disease The agency, which is responsible for 10,000 in Myanmar, State Counsellor Daw Aung San and to provide treatment,” Daw Aung San Suu Kyi protecting public health and safety, Suu Kyi on September 25 urged the people to stop said. temporarily closed after a staff mem- using “ridiculous” home remedies to treat them- She assured the public that the rise in the COV- ber tested positive for COVID-19. selves and to instead visit the township hospital at ID-19 death rate from 1-4pc to 1-6pc is “not a sharp The Yangon branch of the FDA once should they experience symptoms of COVID-19. one” and in fact “not surprising” given that the num- closed on September 10 after a driver This, she said, will help the authorities become ber of confirmed cases have increased as swabs from returned a positive test, but the office more strategic in containing the spread of the virus more suspected persons were tested. since reopened on September 23, ac- and enable those infected to receive proper treat- Between March 23 and September 26, Myanmar cording to director Dr Min Won. ment and recover. had tested a total of 254,254 people for the corona- “We have provided place for staff Myanmar’s COVID-19 case count rose by 1991 to virus. That’s a positive test rate of around 4pc over outside the office, where they can 10,734 on September 27, and the death toll is now at the period, but since the mid-August outbreak in collect documents that have been 226 from 198 the day before. The country is now rac- A woman reading newspaper during the semi-lockdown Rakhine and subsequent spread of the virus across delivered. The basket containing the ing to find enough space to treat the rising number period on September 23. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing the country, mainly to Yangon, the daily positive test documents is then sprayed with disin- of people infected with the coronavirus and isolate rate has hit double-digit peaks. fectant, helping to avoid direct contact another 13,773 patients under investigation. Medical practitioners and healthcare workers from The State Counsellor reminded the public that with other people and staff,” he said. And, with the economy at stake and national the private sector were asked to support the public to-date, a cure for COVID-19 remains elusive and to 45 staff who had contact with the elections approaching in November, the pressure is hospitals “as much as possible”. avoid resorting to “ridiculous” home remedies and virus-positive employee were asked rising on the government to contain the spread of The move is expected to relieve the strain on spe- concoctions to cure themselves from the virus. to undergo a period of quarantine. Of COVID-19, fast. cialist hospitals and provide the public with a clear “Our people need to realise that there is no vac- the 45, three tested positive. The four Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said Myanmar is expect- course of action should they experience symptoms of cine for this disease. Don’t believe that certain food COVID-19-postive employees have ing to receive 100,000 Antigen test kits from Korea the virus. It will also help the authorities isolate and or drinks can relieve the disease. Get medical tests since recovered, but will continue to plus an additional US$500,000 worth of donated treat the most vulnerable people and become more at the hospitals. Choose township and district hospi- stay at home until their quarantine kits from the Koreans “within days”. effective in controlling local transmissions. tals as your first priority,” she said. period comes to an end. The tests will be disturbed and conducted at dis- “As we conduct these tests, if we find someone She added that a vaccine will be available in My- After quarantining its staff, the of- trict and township hospitals despite a “great major- who is tested positive, we would send this person to anmar at the earliest opportunity and after approval fice will run its operations with half ity” of people preferring to visit specialist hospitals. the type of hospital where treatment could be given. is obtained from the World Health Organization. the workforce. – Translated 4 News www.mmtimes.com THE MYANMAR TIMES SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 Tatmadaw rejects anew call for ceasefire in Rakhine

SAI WUNNA until the end of September, except in seeking more autonomy from the tember 23 that random tests showed [email protected] some areas in Rakhine and adjacent central government. The new round there were no COVID-19 cases detect- Chin state, which the predominantly of clashes between AA fighters and ed in IDP camps. THE Myanmar military rejected Buddhist ethnic armed group is op- government troops started in Novem- Dr Sai Win Zaw Hlaing, chief of call for a ceasefire in Rakhine State, erating. ber 2018, when the armed group tried the Rakhine Public Health Depart- where clashes between government The government has declared AA to establish a base in Mrauk-U town- ment, said the tests were conducted troops and Arakan Army (AA) for a terrorist organization on March 23 ship. in IDP camps in townships of Sit- nearly two years now, a senior armed and the armed group vowed to con- Rakhine was the second worst hit twe, Pauktaw, Mrauk-U, Kyaukphyu, Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing forces official said. tinue attacking security outposts un- state in the country by COVD-19, with Maungdaw and Thandwe townships. Major General Zaw Min Tun, chief til the Tatmadaw leaves the state. 1261 confirmed cases of infections as He said the state government held of the Tatmadaw (military) True News “I think we should focus on Cov- of Saturday. an online meeting on September 21 Govt probes Information Team, said the demand id-19 to prevent, control and cure Amid concerns infections could with representatives of UN agencies of local and international humanitar- by declaring a ceasefire all over the engulf the different cramped camps and international non-government erroneous ian organizations for a truce is not country,” he said.” But, it is hard for for tens of thousands of internally organisations allowed to operate in practical as the ethnic armed group us to do in the situation that AA at- displaced persons across the Rakh- Rakhine, to discuss COVID-19 pre- news report continue to attack government forces. tacks government’s troops every day,” ine after UN and NGO workers tested ventive measures including health- The government has declared he said. positive for the disease, the state Pub- care services for Rakhine IDP camps about State ceasefire in all areas in the country Established in 2009, the AA is lic Health Department said on Sep- and Muslim IDP camps. Counsellor’s COVID-19 Groups urged more consideration for infection

MYAT THURA women’s needs in quarantine facilities [email protected] AUTHORITIES are conducting NU YIN MIN an investigation on an online [email protected] news portal that reported erro- neously about State Counsellor WOMEN groups are asking authorities to give more Daw Aung San Suu Kyi getting consideration to women’s needs in quarantine cen- infected with COVID-19. tres, such as sanitary pads and more privacy. U Zaw Htay, a government They noted that while there are many donors for spokesperson, hinted malice in meal box, toothbrush, towels and others for those the fake news report last week quarantine little attention are paid on the special for alleging that the government needs of women. hid the true health of the de fac- Daw Nang Phyu Phyu Linn, from the Gender to Myanmar leader. Equality Network (GEN), said once a person tested “There are also fake news positive for the disease, they are sent immediately to that another person is substitut- quarantine facilities and for women patients, they ed for her,” he said in a briefing have little time to gather all things they would need. last week. “It is completely incor- “We have to consider for all women in quaran- rect fake news,” tine center and it’s not disgusting to donate sanitary “We are looking into the page pads. Please, I request the public to donate sanitary which reports fake news. If we pads,” she appealed. find out irrefutable evidences we Daw Nang Phyu Phyu Linn pointed out the sani- will proceed with legal actions by tary pads is not only the women patients but also for the law,” he spokesperson said. all women doctors, nurses and volunteers. Prepare for emergency Corona Virus 19 ,COVID-19 Quarantine center at B.E.H.S (2) Bahan Township on U Zaw Htay has warned that “I have no experience living in a quarantine cent- September 27, 2020. Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing fake news and misinformation er but I can say that all women need the sanitary about the state’s leaders will be pads monthly,” she said. “I know that there must be that she have seen some sanitary pads donation dur- toilets in Kyaukphyu township in Rakhine State and punished harshly, he added. many more urgent problems in quarantine centers, ing the first wave of COVID-19, but since the second Kanbalu township in Sagaing Region, but the prob- On Friday, the State Coun- but ensuring sufficient supply of sanitary pads will wave of outbreak started on August 16, fewer dona- lem has been eventually resolved by the quarantine sellor went on a nationwide tel- be of great relief to all women there.” tions have arrived as infections rose rapidly and all administrators and volunteers. The same problem is evised address, expressing grati- A woman patient staying in a quarantine centre have been very busy. cropping up in the new quarantine centres rushed to tude to citizens who expressed in Latha township said men and women patients are “Aside from sanitary pads, donors also need donat- accommodated more infected patients. concern about her health. separated. But sanitary pads are not available and ing some underwear women as they usually feel shy to “From a woman point of view I think at least the If you want me to be healthy, each one has to take care of all the necessary acces- ask volunteers to buy these things for them,” she said. bathroom should be with shelters even those that you also should try to be healthy sories they need. A woman volunteer said that she had seen many are not separated by gender, to provide dignity and because if I hear that citizens “I think the township administration arranged donors providing meals and other needs, but little privacy of a woman” Daw Su Su Nga said. are healthy, I will gain mental only for accommodation,” she observed. “I need to on sanitary pads and other special needs of women. Dr. Min Ko Ko, project manager, working for strength and consequently my provide for all the other items, such as blanket.” “When someone needs these, they have to tell WASH Program of Water Aid Myanmar, agreed health will be better,” the 75-year- But the woman patient said she understands the their families and asked them to bring it to them about the need to have separate bathrooms and old Daw Aung San Suu Kyi said. situation as COVID-19 cases skyrocketed during the and the process usually takes some time,” she said. toilets for men and women in quarantine and treat- She urged the people to unite past month and there is not enough quarantine cen- Daw Su Su Nga said that despite the gravity of the ment centres. in the fight against the COVID-19 tres anymore. current sitiuation bathrooms in quarantine centres “I think, it should be gender separated. Sharing infections, which surged to past She appealed to kindhearted people donate for should have adequate protection for women. is not good because gender requirements are differ- 10,000 since the new outbreak the needs of the people in the quarantine centres. Earlier in the month, there were media reports ent. And toilets must be clean because of the risk of started in Rakhine State on Au- Daw Su Su Nge, from Water Aid Myanmar, said that men and women share the same bathrooms and infection,” he added. gust 16. – Translated Myanmar climbs six notches up in 2020 SDG index: report

SALAI TUN TUN 110th ranking in 2019. Among the 10-country Associa- could be derailed due to the pandemic for testing, tracing and treatment,” he Aside from poverty reduction, the tion of South-East Asian Nations, My- that have engulfed countries across added. “Universal access to treatments MYANMAR climbed six notches up country also showed improvement in anmar was behind Thailand, which the globe since the start of the year. and vaccines, when they become avail- in the United Nations 2020 sustain- reforming and developing its educa- ranked 41st, Vietnam, 49th, Malaysia “Due to COVID-19, an unprec- able, is essential.” able development goals index ranking, tion system, which stagnated under 60th, Singapore, 93rd, Philipppines, edented health, economic and social Myanmar has been experiencing making headway in the fight against the 54 years of military rule. 99th, and Indonesia, 101st. crisis is threatening lives and liveli- a surge in COVID-19 infections and poverty reduction despite armed con- Myanmar also made headway The sustainable development goals hoods, making the achievement of deaths for the past month, and au- flicts and lack of resources. in mitigating the effects of climate index is based on the17 goals set by the goals even more challenging,” he said thorities are scrambling to open more The 2020 SDGs Report placed change, as well as in food security, UN in 2015 aimed to be achieved by in the report. quarantine centres amid still uncon- Myanmar in 104th place out of the healthcare system, gender equality, 2030. “Health systems must be urgently trolled infection rate, especially in 166 countries around the world that energy, and economic development, Antonio Guterres, UN secretary strengthened in countries that are at Yangon, the country’s commercial cen- joined the programme, higher than its among others. general, said the SDGs timeframe, greatest risk, with increased capacity tre. – Translated SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 THE MYANMAR TIMES www.mmtimes.com 5 Business Myanmar’s trade outlook still positive despite stronger kyat, officials say

ZEYAR HEIN that the CBM has never purchased declined significantly. With a sharp The trade deficit for the year is es- THIHA KO KO such an amount before. contraction in the garment industry timated to be over US$ 1.5 billion. But local currency watchers said due to COVID-19, manufacturing In comparison, total trade THE Myanmar kyat has hit its strong- the CBM has to purchase more dol- exports in the first three quarters amounted to US$35 billion with the est level against the US dollar since lars to stabilise the exchange rate. of the year dropped by 4.4 percent trade deficit at just over US$1 billion 2018, with the Central Bank’s refer- The US dollar continues to weaken from the same period a year earlier, in fiscal 2018-19. ence exchange rate on September 24 after the Federal Reserve on Septem- data from the Commerce Ministry U Min Min said the trade situation reaching K1309 per dollar. ber 2 announced a new strategy to showed. is not too bad considering the spread This is despite the Central Bank boost employment and let inflation But U Min Min, Director General of COVID-19 in the country. of Myanmar (CBM) continuously rise higher for longer than in the of Trade Department under the Min- “We are estimating that the to- purchasing US dollars in the market past. istry of Commerce, said both export- tal trade volume will reach around in attempts to stabilise the exchange Under its new policy, inflation ers and importers are still in a good US$35 billion by the end of the fiscal rate. The strengthening kyat comes should be above 2 percent for “some position to continue trading at the year. Despite the difficulties in trade amid a second wave of COVID-19 cas- time” before the Fed would raise in- current exchange rate. due to COVID – 19 in the country, the es in the country, which has damaged terest rates. The Fed’s key interest According to data from the Com- government is prioritising trade fa- trade and demand. rate is now already near zero and its merce Ministry for the current fiscal cilitation,” he said. The CBM has scooped up a total new policy has led to a steady weak- year up to August 21, total trade value “In the current fiscal year, agricul- of US$23.7 million between K1326 ening of the dollar against other cur- was about US$33 billion for the cur- tural exports have been supported by and K1314 per dollar this month so rencies, including the kyat. rent fiscal year, with exports valued strong domestic and foreign demand, far. Last month, it purchased US$35.6 The strengthening local currency at over US$15 billion and imports val- and exports of rice and pulses have million at an exchange rate between will make Myanmar exports dearer to ued at over US$17 billion. Imports for shown strength. In the next fiscal K1361 and K1347 per dollar. international buyers, and comes amid Photo: Aung Htay Hlaing the period increased by 9.2pc, driven year, we are working to strengthen U San Win, a local analyst in the slower global demand for Myanmar by demand for capital and investment the agricultural export sector and foreign exchange market, told the goods due to the pandemic. year, export revenues from animal goods for government infrastructure the animal export sector,” U Min Min Myanmar Times earlier this month During the current 2019-20 fiscal products and manufactured goods projects. said.

Dala bridge construction Poultry farmers demand review of suspended during Yangon chicken import ban stay-home period AUNG LOON THE Myanmar Broiler Chicken Breeding Asso- starting in October. HMUE ANGEL ciation has sent a letter to the Ministry of Ag- ‘Local demand for Locally produced frozen chicken is sold at riculture, Livestock and Irrigation requesting it poultry has halved fried chicken shops, hotels, food manufactur- Nine people working on the construction of to review a request to suspend the import of ing industries and supermarkets. With the Dala Bridge who were quarantined for COV- frozen chicken into the country. because of COVID-19.’ pandemic, the local consumption rate of poul- ID-19 have tested positive for the coronavirus. Myanmar is now importing an equivalent of try has dropped, resulting in losses for chicken Work on the project will now be suspended for 4 percent of the total consumption of chicken, U Thein Myint breeders. as long as the Yangon stay-at-home order is in at a time when domestic demand has fallen Myanmar Livestock Federation Broiler chicken prices at poultry farms place. sharply. have fallen sharply as a result, and breeders “After we detected the first four positive cases “Currently, we are able to produce enough are now making about K50 Million in losses at Dala Bridge, we put 11 primary contacts in quar- to meet the local demand for frozen chicken. daily. antine and took swab tests. Nine have tested posi- The government allows importing 4pc of “Local demand for poultry has halved be- tive and the other two were found negative. All consumption rate and so it will be about 500 amount of frozen chicken can be produced cause of COVID-19. Although the processing primary contacts have been placed under quaran- tonnes per month. It is too large an amount,” locally,” said U Thein Myint, vice-president of cost of a chick is over K500, the current market tine, and there are no more people who had con- commented U Kyaw Win, chair of the asso- Myanmar Livestock Federation. price is only around K150 per chick. As such, tact with them,” said Dala Township Public Health ciation. The federation had proposed an import the federation has asked the Livestock Breed- Department Head and General Hospital Chief “We have sent the letter asking the minis- ban of at least three months but the authori- ing and Veterinary Department to suspend im- Physician Dr. Tun Win. try to reconsider the decision as the required ties approved just a one-month suspension ports,” said U Thein Myint. – Translated Four Myanmar engineers involved in the Dala Bridge Project were found positive on September 16, after which construction works on the Dala side of the bridge was halted. “We have now arranged to suspend construc- Myanmar govt to distribute cash to workers tion from September 24 to October 7 according to the Yangon stay-home order. Construction work on both sides of the Dala Bridge will be suspend- without social security ed,” said U Kyaw Kaung Cho, who heads the pro- ject. Construction of the bridge is currently about THIHA KO KO tion announced on September 24 that affected starting October,” U Aye Win said. 20 percent complete, he said. workers who have made SSB contributions will Officials from the government and UMFCCI Up until last month, construction of the Dala THE government is planning to provide receive 40 percent of their wages as financial are in the process of working with employers Bridge was being carried out around the clock to K30,000 per person for employees of busi- assistance. to provide the required employee information be complete by October 2022. nesses impacted by the work-from-home order Now, the government is also planning to needed to disseminate funds. The entire pro- The bridge, also known as the Myanmar – Ko- who do not contribute to the Social Security provide financial assistance to workers who do cess will be done online to avoid face-to-face rea Friendship Bridge, is expected to cost US$168 Board (SSB), U Aye Win, General Secretary of not contribute to the SSB. meetings. million (K257 billion), and is being funded by a the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers The issue now is getting information on The Ministry of Health and Sports has set a US$137.8 million loan from the South Korea Eco- of Commerce and Industry (UMFCCI), told the those who do not have social security in order stay-at-home order from September 24 to Octo- nomic Development Cooperation Fund at an inter- Myanmar Times. to help them. ber 7 to more effectively prevent the spread of est rate of 0.01 percent. The remaining US$30.3 Officials from the Yangon Region Govern- “While the government has statistics and COVID - 19 in the Yangon Region. million will be funded by the Myanmar govern- ment and UMFCCI discussed the plan to pro- information to support workers who have con- Only businesses involved in banking and fi- ment. vide financial assistance to workers who are tributed to SSB, we are still discussing how to nancial services, petrol stations, food and cold Construction of the bridge, which will connect not allowed to go to the workplace on Septem- support those who do not. In the meantime, storage, pharmaceuticals, purified water distri- Dala township across the Yangon River to down- ber 26. the plan is to provide K30,000 per person for bution and production of daily personal items town Yangon, began in May 2019 and is slated to The Ministry of Immigration and Popula- workers who do not have SSB contributions, have been exempted from the order. be complete in October 2022. – Translated 6 International Business www.mmtimes.com THE MYANMAR TIMES SEPTEMBER 21, 2020 World MOSCOW Ukraine plane crash death toll rises to 26, with 1 survivor

SEARCHERS combing the area where Friday night while coming in for land- halted pending investigation into the their whole lives and, I am sure, more by both military and civilian operators. a Ukrainian military aircraft crashed ing at the airport in Chuhuiv, about 400 cause of the crash. than one military feat ahead of them,” Nearly 1,400 of the planes were manu- found two more bodies Saturday, bring- kilometres east of the capital Kyiv. Zelenskiy, who visited the crash area Zelenskiy said in a statement released factured from 1969 to 1986, according ing the death toll to 26. One person sur- Two people initially survived the Saturday, called for a full assessment of by his office. “The whole country will to the company’s website. Defense Min- vived. crash, but one later died in a hospital. the condition of the country’s military mourn today with their families.” ister Andrei Taran said the plane that The plane, a twin-turboprop An- No cause for the crash has been deter- equipment. Prime Minister Denis Shy- Deputy Defense Minister Igor crashed was built in 1977. tonov-26 belonging to the Ukrainian air mined. Ukrainian President Volodymyr gal called for an official report on the Starobinksy said the families of the An An-26 chartered by a contractor force, was carrying a crew of seven and Zelenskiy declared Saturday to be a day crash by October 25. dead would each be paid compensation for the World Food Program crashed on 20 cadets of a military aviation school of mourning for the crash victims and “Yesterday we lost young cadets and of about 1,500,000 hryvna (US$56,000). Aug. 22 while taking off from Juba in when it crashed and burst into flames ordered that flights of An-26 planes be experienced military men, who had The An-26 is a transport plane used South Sudan, killing seven people. – AP

NEW YORK

Chief Operating Officer – U Wai Linn

ENGLISH EDITION Editor-in-Chief – Kang Wan Chern Tiny airborne particles may [email protected] News Editors John Grafilo, [email protected] Patrick Fong pose a big coronavirus problem [email protected] Chief Sub-Editor – Kevin Courtney [email protected] Chief Translator – Zaw Nyunt AT a University of Maryland lab, peo- than 200 other scientists to publish a [email protected] ple infected with the new coronavi- plea in July to pay attention to the Lifestyle/Metro Editors rus take turns sitting in a chair and potential risk from aerosols. The Andrew King putting their faces into the big end of World Health Organization, which [email protected] a large cone. They recite the alphabet had long dismissed a danger from Nandar Aung [email protected] and sing or just sit quietly for a half aerosols except in the case of certain Head of Photography hour. Sometimes they cough. medical procedures, later said that Zarni Phyo, Nyan Zay Htet The cone sucks up everything aerosol transmission of the corona- Head of Multimedia – Aung Khant that comes out of their mouths and virus can’t be ruled out in cases of noses. It’s part of a device called infection within crowded and poorly PRODUCTION Art Director – Tin Zaw Htwe “Gesundheit II” that is helping scien- ventilated indoor spaces. Production Manager – Zar Ni tists study a big question: Just how The issue drew attention recently [email protected] does the virus that causes COVID-19 when the US Centers for Disease Con- Assistant Manager - Zaw Naing Soe spread from one person to another? trol and Prevention posted and then [email protected] It clearly hitchhikes on small liq- deleted statements on its website HR/ADMIN uid particles sprayed out by an in- that highlighted the idea of aerosol HR/Admin Manager – Ei Thandar Myint fected person. People expel particles spread. The agency said the posting [email protected] while coughing, sneezing, singing, was an error, and that the statements [email protected] shouting, talking and even breath- were just a draft of proposed changes

ADVERTISING & SALES ing. But the drops come in a wide to its recommendations. (959) 25 400 6188 range of sizes, and scientists are try- Dr Jay Butler, CDC’s deputy direc- 2018 photo provided by the University of Maryland School of Public Health [email protected], ing to pin down how risky the vari- tor for infectious disease, said that shows The Gesundheit II machine in Dr. Donald Milton’s Public Health [email protected] ous kinds are. the agency continues to believe larg- Aerobiology, Virology, and Exhaled Biomarker Laboratory of the university in The answer affects what we er and heavier droplets that come College Park, Maryland. Photo: AP CIRCULATION & DISTRIBUTION Circulation & Distribution Manager - should all be doing to avoid getting from coughing or sneezing are the Ye Lynn Htay sick. That’s why it was thrust into primary means of transmission. There could be another way for just one at a time, researchers say. In [email protected] headlines a few days ago when a US Last month Butler told a scien- tiny particles to spread. They may a well ventilated environment, “6 feet (959) 421 011 651 health agency appeared to have shift- tific meeting that current research not necessarily come directly from (of separation) is pretty good if eve- [email protected] ed its position on the issue, but later suggests aerosol spreading of the somebody’s mouth or nose, says Wil- rybody’s got a mask on” and nobody Stand-Sales - (959) 421 148 807 Subscriber - (959) 550 2539 said it had published new language coronavirus is possible but it doesn’t liam Ristenpart of the University of stays directly downwind of an infected Delivery - (959) 443 063 030 in error. seem to be the main way that people California, Davis. His research found person for very long, says Dr Donald The recommendation to stay at get infected. Further research may that if paper tissues are seeded with Milton of the University of Maryland Publisher – U Wai Linn least 2 metres apart — some authori- change that conclusion, he added, influenza virus and then crumpled, School of Public Health, whose lab 01021 Myanmar Consolidated Media Co., Ltd. ties cite about half that distance — is and he urged scientists to study how they give off particles that bear the houses the Gesundheit II machine. The Myanmar Times is owned by Myanmar based on the idea that larger parti- often aerosol spread of the corona- virus. So people emptying a waste- Duration of exposure is impor- Consolidated Media Co., Ltd. and printed by cles fall to the ground before they can virus occurs, what situations make basket with tissues discarded by tant, so there’s probably not much Myanmar Times Press (00876) with approval travel very far. They are like the drop- it more likely and what reasonable somebody with COVID-19 should be risk from a short elevator ride while from MCM Co., Ltd. The title The Myanmar lets in a spritz of a window cleaner, steps might prevent it. sure to wear a mask, he said. masked or being passed by a jogger Times, in either English or Myanmar lan- and they can infect somebody by Marr said she thinks infection by Scientists who warn about aero- on the sidewalk, experts say. guages, its associated logos or devices, and the contents of this publication may not be landing on their nose, mouth or eyes, aerosols is “happening a lot more sols say current recommendations Scientists have published online reproduced in whole or in part without the or maybe being inhaled. than people initially were willing to still make sense. tools for calculating risk of airborne written consent of the Executive Director of But some scientists are now fo- think.” Wearing a mask is still important, spread in various settings. Myanmar Consolidated Media Co., Ltd. cusing on tinier particles, the ones As a key piece of evidence, Marr and make sure it fits snugly. Keep At a recent meeting on aerosols, that spread more like cigarette and others point to so-called “super- washing those hands diligently. And however, Dr Georges Benjamin, ex- Printing Inquiries – U Htay Maung [email protected] smoke. Those are carried by wisps of spreader” events where one infected again, staying farther apart is bet- ecutive director of the American air and even upward drafts caused by person evidently passed the virus to ter than being closer together. Avoid Public Health Association, noted Republishing Inquiries – Kang Wan Chern the warmth of our bodies. They can many others in a single setting. crowds, especially indoors. that preventive steps can be a chal- [email protected] linger in the air for minutes to hours, In March, for example, after a Their main addition to recom- lenge in the real world. Keeping spreading throughout a room and choir member with coronavirus mendations is ventilation to avoid a apart from other people can be dif- build up if ventilation is poor. symptoms attended a rehearsal in build-up of aerosol concentration. So, ficult in homes that house multiple The potential risk comes from in- Washington state, 52 others who had the researchers say, stay out of poorly generations. Some old buildings have Myanmar Consolidated Media Co., Ltd. haling them. Measles can spread this been seated throughout the room ventilated rooms. Open windows and windows that were “nailed shut years www.mmtimes.com way, but the new coronavirus is far were found to be infected and two doors. One can also use air-purifying ago,” he said. And “we have far too less contagious than that. died. In a crowded and poorly ven- devices or virus-inactivating ultravio- many communities where they sim- Yangon Head Office: No. 332 (A), Pyay Road, Myaynigone (North For these particles, called aero- tilated restaurant in China in Janu- let light. ply don’t have access to clean water Ward, Sanchang Township, Yangon. sols, “6 feet is not a magic distance,’’ ary, the virus evidently spread from Best of all: Just do as much as you to wash their hands.” Telephone: (959) 51 92046, 250 790 623, 899 says Linsey Marr, a leading research- a lunchtime patron to five people can outdoors, where dilution and the It might seem strange that for 170 965, 50 81329 er who is studying them at Virginia at two adjoining tables in a pattern sun’s ultraviolet light work in your all the scientific frenzy to study the Tech in Blacksburg. But she says it’s suggesting aerosols were spread by favour. new coronavirus, the details of how Mandalay Office: No.268/9, between 31st and 32nd Street and Between 85th and 86th Street, still important to keep one’s distance the air conditioner. Also in January, “We know outdoors is the most it spreads can still be in doubt nine Chan Aye Thar Zan township, Mandalay. from others, “the farther the better,” a passenger on a Chinese bus ap- spectacularly effective measure, by months later. But history suggests Tel: (959) 259 059 093, 550 2539 because aerosols are most concen- parently infected 23 others, many far,’’ says Jose-Luis Jimenez of the patience. Email: [email protected] trated near a source and pose a big- of whom were scattered around the University of Colorado-Boulder. “We’ve been studying influenza ger risk at close range. vehicle. “Outdoors it is not impossible to get for 102 years,” says Milton, referring Nay Pyi Taw: (959) 550 2539, 444 811 142, 444 811 143 Public health agencies have gen- Butler said such events raise con- infected, but it is difficult.” to the 1918 flu epidemic. “We still Nay Pyi Taw Agent: erally focused on the larger particles cern about aerosol spread but don’t The various precautions should don’t know how it’s transmitted and Thurain Win: (+959) 250 692 123 for coronavirus. That prompted more prove it happens. be used in combination rather than what the role of aerosols is.” – AP SEPTEMBER 28, 2020 THE MYANMAR TIMES www.mmtimes.com 7 ASEAN Focus

MALAYSIA’S 7-month-old ruling alli- ance triumphed Saturday in its first IN BRIEF electoral test in eastern Sabah state, Malaysia’s embattled PM a major victory for embattled Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin amid JAKARTA challenges to his leadership. Indonesia’s COVID-19 death toll Sabah was ruled by the opposition wins crucial state polls tops 10,000, highest in SE Asia and the state poll was seen as Indonesia said Thursday that 10,105 a referendum for Muhyiddin’s people have so far died of COVID-19, unelected government. Analysts said marking the first time that the the victory could push Muhyiddin death toll from the new coronavirus to call for early national elections to has exceeded 10,000 in an ASEAN bolster his coalition that has a thin member. two-seat majority in Parliament. The total number of infection cases The win could also help Muhyiddin in the country now stands at 262,022, thwart a challenge from opposition according to the latest Health Ministry leader Anwar Ibrahim, who declared data. Wednesday he has secured majority The momentum of infection has support in the national Parliament increased, with the number of daily to oust Muhyiddin and form a new new cases reaching a record high of government. 4634 on Thursday. Muhyiddin said in a brief televised Jakarta Gov. Anies Baswedan, in speech that his camp has won 38 a statement, said the period of re- out of the 73 state seats, enough to tightened restrictions in the capital, form a new state government, and including social distancing meas- thanked Sabah voters for their trust. ures, will be extended by two weeks “Muhyiddin has secured as coronavirus infections continue enough of a strong performance to spread in surrounding areas. to strengthen his legitimacy,” said They had been scheduled to end on Bridget Welsh, honorary research Sunday. associate at the University of The infection of medical workers is Nottingham in Malaysia. also serious, with 115 doctors having Sabah and neighbouring Sarawak reportedly died of COVID-19 so far. on Borneo island hold about a – Kyodo quarter of the seats in Parliament and are seen as crucial for political leverage. The two states are rich Malaysian voters wearing face masks wait for their turn at a polling station on the outskirts of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah BANGKOK in oil and timber, but are among state on Borneo island on Saturday. Photo: AP Thailand sues Facebook, Twitter the poorest in Malaysia. They have for allowing banned material a greater level of autonomy in administration. iddin’s camp. Institute of International Affairs. Thailand’s government lodged com- administration, immigration and Muhyiddin’s alliance has since Anwar hasn’t revealed details, Muhyiddin’s heavy campaigning plaints with police Thursday against judiciary. taken control of many states after as he is waiting to meet with in Sabah with a pledge for Facebook and Twitter, alleging they The leader of Sabah dissolved the lawmakers defected. After losing Malaysia’s king, who is in a hospital development has worked well in failed to comply with court orders to state assembly on July 30 to seek Sabah, the opposition now controls for treatment. The king has power interior seats, Oh said. Billboards block content judged illegal under early elections and block attempts by only two of the country’s richest to appoint a new prime minister of Muhyiddin’s smiling face dubbed Thai law. Muhyiddin’s ruling alliance to wrest states, Selangor and Penang. or dissolve Parliament for an early “Abah,” or father, are prominent in Minister of Digital Economy and power in Sabah through lawmakers’ But Muhyiddin has been strug- general election, which is not due many constituencies. Society Buddhipongse Punnakanta defections. gling to maintain support amid until 2023. Muhyiddin has said Muhyiddin’s allies in his ruling said at a news conference that it was The attempted takeover of Sabah infighting in his coalition. His Anwar’s declaration was a mere alliance are likely to increase calls for the first time his ministry has taken was reminiscent of how Muhyiddin leadership was thrown into fur- allegation until he provides evidence. early national polls after the Sabah such action against the social media took power in March after defecting ther doubt after Anwar claimed The Sabah victory “took wind win. “Situation remains uncertain, companies under Thailand’s Com- from the reformist government to have won majority support, in- away from Anwar’s sail,” said Oh Ei with pressures toward an election puter Crime Act. It has prosecuted to form a new Malay-centric cluding from lawmakers in Muhy- Sun, a senior fellow at the Singapore real,” Welsh said. – Associated Press website and account owners and users in the past. The ministry filed the complaints at the police Technology Crime Suppres- sion Division, where Buddhipongse Giant rat wins animal hero award for sniffing out landmines said the companies had failed to meet 15-day deadlines issued by the courts A RAT has for the first time won a Christophe Cox described Magawa’s Fast facts to block hundreds of accounts. He British charity’s top civilian award medal as a huge honour “for our The PDSA offers the following statis- said the targeted sites were banned for animal bravery, receiving the animal trainers.’’ tics on the hero rat: because they contained illegal content honor for searching out unexploded “But also it is big for the people • Name: Magawa. related to online gambling, pornogra- landmines in Cambodia. in Cambodia, and all the people • Sex: Male. phy, drugs or the monarchy, a highly Magawa, a giant African pouched around the world who are suffering • Date of birth: Nov. 5, 2014. sensitive subject. rat, was awarded the PDSA’s Gold from landmines,’’ Cox said. “The • Birthplace: Morogoro, Tanzania. The ministry also filed complaints Medal for his “lifesaving bravery PDSA Gold Medal award brings • Current home: Siem Reap, Cam- against parties using five accounts and devotion” after discovering the problem of landmines to global bodia. to disseminate material considered 39 landmines and 28 items of attention.” • Length: 70 centimetres. offensive during a large anti-govern- unexploded ordinance in the past More than 60 million people in 59 • Weight: 1230 grams. ment rally on September 19. seven years, according to the countries continue to be threatened • Favorite food: Bananas and pea- Buddhipongse said Facebook had charity. by landmines and unexploded nuts. blocked access in Thailand to 215 of • Favorite toy: Running wheel in the First known as the People’s ordnance, according to APOPO. In Cambodian landmine detection rat the 661 accounts his ministry had playground. Dispensary for Sick Animals, PDSA 2018, landmines and other remnants Magawa wears his PDSA Gold Medal, requested. Twitter had blocked four of • Personality: A determined worker started as a free veterinary clinic in of war killed or injured 6897 people, the animal equivalent of the George 69 accounts, he said. – AP and always friendly. 1917 and has honored heroic animals the group says. Cross, in Siem, Cambodia. • Temperament: Quick and decisive. since 1943. While many rodents can be Photo: People’s Dispensary for Sick Likes to take naps at break time. Magawa was trained by a Belgian trained to detect scents and will work Animals via AP organisation that has taught rats to at repetitive tasks for food rewards, • Favorite activities: Eating watermel- find landmines for more than 20 APOPO decided that giant African devotion by animals in civilian on and looking for landmines, know- years. The group, APOPO, works pouched rats were best suited to service. It is considered the animal ing he'll be rewarded with bananas. with programmes in Cambodia, landmine clearance because of their equivalent of the George Cross, a • What he has in common with Angola, Zimbabwe and Mozambique African origins and lifespan of up to decoration for heroism. Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex: to clear millions of mines left behind eight years. Before Magawa, all the recipients Magawa and the duchess share the same jeweler, Cleave & Company. The from wars and conflicts. Their size allows the rats to walk were dogs. court jewelers struck Magawa's min- Magawa is the group’s most across mine fields without triggering PDSA also awards the Dickin iature PDSA Gold Medal and created successful rat, having cleared more the explosives - and do it much more Medal for military service. The Meghan's engagement ring. than 141,000 square metres of land, quickly than people. medal has been awarded to 34 dogs, • How big is Magawa's medal: 18.25 the equivalent of some 20 soccer The PDSA’s Gold Medal has been 32 pigeons, four horses and one cat millimetres in diameter and weighs fields. awarded since 2002 to recognize since it was created in 1943. 3.9 grams. APOPO chief executive bravery and acts of exceptional – Associated Press 8 www.mmtimes.com THE MYANMAR TIMES SEPTEMBER 28 2020 SPORT FOOTBALL Man U, Chelsea leave it late on another wild day in the EPL

THE clock was approaching 100 min- data in the 2003-04 season. Second-half goals by Mason Mount, utes and the final whistle had long Still, Brighton looked like grabbing substitute Callum Hudson-Odoi and been blown when Bruno Fernandes a draw few could have argued with then Abraham earned a point for stroked home yet another penalty when Solly March equalised in the Chelsea, but it was a worrying display to secure a wild win for Manchester fifth minute of stoppage time to make by a team which has been tipped to United. it 2-2. possibly challenge for the title after Chelsea also left it late in the Eng- Yet there was still time for United spending nearly US$300 million on lish Premier League on Saturday, but to immediately break forward from new players. its goal deep into injury time could the restart, force a corner, and then “We’re still finding our way with snatch only a draw from a perilous earn a penalty when Harry Maguire’s new players and a lack of preseason,” halftime position. goalbound header glanced off the flail- Chelsea manager Frank Lampard said. On another goal-filled day in a ing arm of Brighton striker Neal Mau- “Today is part of the process of getting league where defences have temporar- pay before being cleared off the line. better.” ily gone missing, United beat Brighton Referee Chris Kavanagh immedi- Thiago Silva, who made his Chel- 3-2 in a match that had pretty much ately blew the final whistle, only to be sea debut in the English League Cup everything to register its first victory surrounded by United players calling in midweek, was given the armband of the campaign. for handball to be given. Kavanagh for the game but was substituted after Chelsea then came from three goals reviewed the incident on the pitchside 73 minutes. down after 27 minutes to draw at West monitor and awarded a penalty, much Bromwich Albion 3-3, with Tammy to the anger of Brighton’s players who Helping hand Abraham netting in the third minute remonstrated. Everton is top of the nascent standings of stoppage time. When the chaos died down, Fer- with a maximum nine points, and has Forty-four goals were scored in nandes kept his cool to convert from a stricter handball ruling to thank. the last round — a record haul since the spot. After scoring a record 14 pen- Richarlison converted what proved the division was reduced to 20 teams alties last season, United is already up to be the winning goal against Palace in 1995 — and it is already up to 15 and running on the spot-kick counter from the spot in the 40th after Joel Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes celebrates after he scores his side’s third from four games in this round with for the 2020-21 campaign in the crazi- Ward became the latest player to fall goal from the penalty spot during the English Premier League match against Everton winning at Crystal Palace 2-1 est way imaginable. foul of the newly adopted interpreta- Brighton Hove Albion in Brighton, England, Saturday, September 26. Photo: AP and Southampton beating Burnley 1-0 “We got away with one,” United tion of defensive handballs, when the away. manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer said. ball struck his left arm after being Hodgson said it was “killing the Kouyaté equalised. Five of the goals came at Brighton’s “Maybe one point we deserved; we headed on by Lucas Digne. game.” It’s the first time Everton has won Amex Stadium, and it should have didn’t deserve more.” Because his arm was adjudged to Robin Koch, Victor Lindelof, Matt its first three games of a season since been many, many more. Just ask Lean- have made his body unnaturally big- Doherty and Maupay are other play- 1993. dro Trossard, the Brighton midfielder Debut to forget ger, a penalty was awarded and Rich- ers to have given away penalties for who hit both posts and the crossbar in Thiago Silva had a Premier League de- arlison struck his effort into the top defensive handball this season since Ings looking good an uncommon triple. but to forget for Chelsea. corner. the Premier League decided to fall Danny Ings looks to be making anoth- With his teammates Adam Web- The Brazil centre back coughed “I find it very disappointing that in line with the rest of European er run for the Golden Boot. ster and Solly March striking efforts up a simple pass to let Callum Rob- the game I love and believe in is be- football and apply the ruling in a The striker made it three goals in against the bar and post, respectively, inson run through and score his and ing reduced to this level,” Palace man- stricter way rather than judging it on three games with the winner against Brighton somehow managed to hit West Brom’s second goal on its way ager Roy Hodgson said. “Every week, intent. Burnley, his former club. the goal frame on five occasions — a to an unlikely three-goal lead at The games are being decided on so-called Dominic Calvert-Lewin gave Ings scored 22 last season, one be- record since the Premier League sta- Hawthorns with less than a half-hour penalty decisions for handball which Everton the lead with his fifth goal hind Golden Boot winner Jamie Vardy tistics supplier Opta began compiling played. are definitely not handball.” of the season before Cheikhou of Leicester. – AP

MOTORSPORTS F1: Hamilton takes pole in dramatic Russian qualifying

SOCHI, Russia – Lewis Hamilton took the race on medium tires, which could Vettel’s crash meant the red flag a step closer to equalling the Formula give them an edge in terms of pit was waved while Hamilton was trying One win record on Saturday by clinch- strategy over Hamilton, who is on soft to set his first valid lap time to make ing pole position at the Russian Grand tires, which wear much faster. the third session — after his first at- Prix, after narrowly avoiding early “I’m just going to have to nurse tempt was earlier ruled out for going elimination when Sebastian Vettel those tires for as far as I can. These off the track. crashed. guys, if they get by, they’re going to be After the track was cleared and the Hamilton charged to a track-record pulling away,” Hamilton said. session restarted, Hamilton had to time of 1 minute, 31.304 seconds, beat- Verstappen said he was delighted rush his out-lap and ran off the track ing the Red Bull of Max Verstappen by to start second. before making it over the line in time .563 for his fifth straight pole position. “I wasn’t expecting that and of for another flying lap with just a sec- Hamilton can achieve his 91st career course it’s great for us. If we can get a ond to spare. win in the race on Sunday, matching the good start tomorrow you never know “It was horrible,” Hamilton said. record held by Michael Schumacher. what can happen,” he said. “Heart in the mouth.” Hamilton’s Mercedes teammate, Vettel lost control of his car over Hamilton was also asked to report Valtteri Bottas, was beaten into third the kerb on the inside of the 90-degree, to race stewards over another incident by Verstappen’s fast run at the end of right-hand turn four and spun into the in which he went off the track in the the session and was .652 off Hamil- wall, before the Ferrari bounced back first part of qualifying. No further ac- ton’s time. onto the track. Teammate Charles tion was taken. It was found Hamilton The long run from the grid to the Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc of Monaco steers his car during the qualifying Leclerc was following closely behind didn’t gain an advantage because the first significant turn means Bottas session for the Russian Formula One Grand Prix, at the Sochi Autodrom circuit, and narrowly missed the wrecked car, lap time wasn’t counted. could yet threaten to overtake Hamil- in Sochi, Russia, Saturday, September 26. Photo: AP driving over its discarded front wing. Hamilton is the runaway champi- ton at the start Sunday using the slip- “Oh my god, that was very, very onship leader with a 55-point advan- stream from his teammate’s car. these two (Verstappen and Bottas) to Bottas earned his first win at the close,” Leclerc told his team over the tage over second-place Bottas and 80 “This year you’re seeing that our come flying by at some point,” Ham- 2017 race in Russia after starting third radio. Leclerc qualified 11th and Vet- over Verstappen. If he can earn four cars are more draggy and there’s more ilton said. “I think I’m just going to and overtaking the two Ferraris ahead tel 15th as Ferrari failed to reach the more pole positions in the last seven tow this year than we’ve seen in oth- focus on my race and run the fastest of him at the start. top-10 shootout with either car for the races, he would be the first driver to er years. So I generally expect one of race I can.” Verstappen and Bottas both start third time in four races. 100 in F1 history. – AP