Weekly Wrap-up, No.647 (5-11 October 2013)
- EIA NECESSARY FOR THE FIRST TIME!
- ASEAN CHAIR GOES TO MYANMAR!
- BIG NEWS: KIO WILL HOST ETHNIC SUMMIT!
- MORE POLITICAL PRISONERS RELEASED, BUT THAT’S NOT THE WHOLE STORY!
- CAPACITY BUILDING FOR DANU SHOULD BE EXTENDED TO OTHERS SOON!
Tips to peace brokers: How ‘frank and cordial’ were you?
Think Piece
On Burma’s Asean chair
- The chairmanship is an honor the government hasn’t earned. (Matthew Smith, Fortify Rights)
- Burma’s leaders cannot yet solve their own domestic problems. It is questionable how they can take the regional leadership role. (Yan Myo, political analyst)
- Now that the Asean leadership has fallen into their laps, they may think they don’t have to do more. (Panitan Wattanayagorn, specialist at Chulalongkorn University)
The KIO leaders did not refuse to sign a nationwide ceasefire agreement. They said they would find a way to sign it.
Hla Maung Shwe, special adviser to Myanmar Peace Center (MPC), 9 October 2013, Irrawaddy
Worse place for women than Burma
More than half of Pakistan girls are not educated. It also has the world’s second lowest rate of female employment in the world, according to the World Economic Forum Gender Parity Report, lower even than Saudi Arabia.
New York Times/ Bangkok Post, 10 October 2013
The World
10 October 2013
Malala Yousafzai, 16, wins EU’s annual human rights award, beating fugitive US intelligence analyst Edward Snowden. (Reuters)
International Relations
8 October 2013
President Thein Sein leaves for Brunei to take over the 2014 alternate chair. (Xinhua)
8 October 2010
Burma is yet to be one of 167 nations that have signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) that recognizes the right of peaceful assembly. (KIC)
10 October 2013
President Thein Sein accepts the gavel of Asean. (New York Times)
Thai-Burma Relations
7 October 2013
Border trade between Mae Sot-Myawaddy soared to 44 billion baht ($ 1.46 billion), up 25% from 35 billion) last year, according Customs office in Tak. (NNT)
8 October 2013
Thai energy minister Pongsak Raktapongpaisal says Thailand will be buying about 10,000 MW more of electricity from Myanmar: 7,000 MW from Mai Tong (Mongton) Hydropower Plant and 2,000-3,000 MW from Dawei Coalpower plant. Myanmar needs about 12 years to construct the Mai Tong venture. (Bernama)
Politics/ Inside Burma
7 October 2013
President Thein Sein announces a body to promote education standards will be formed immediately to draft action plans for educational reforms. He calls for experts to discuss their views openly. (Eleven)
10 October 2013
Over 95% of 400 people interviewed across 3 townships in Hpa-an district on 6 October want the constitution to be amended in order to reduce the military’s role in politics, says NLD’s Karen state chairperson Nan Khin Htwe Myint. Shan State chairperson Khin Moe Moe says she will also be conducting a survey in 13 districts. (DVB)
Ethnic Affairs
1 October 2013
2 soldiers from Karen National Union (KNU) Brigade 2, based in Toungoo district, arrested by the Burma Army’s IB 440. They were collecting tax from passing traders. (KIC)
8 October 2013
Negotiations in Myitkyina between KIO and UPWC. Topics: Development since May and formation of peace monitoring group. National Democratic Force (NDF) representative sees there is a good trend in the making. (DVB)
8 October 2013
U Aung Min, following today’s talks, says he expects KIO leaders to join the national ceasefire in November. KIO says it will hold a meeting with top leaders of other groups in Laiza likely at the end of this month. U Aung Min has agreed with the plan, says Shan spokesman. (Irrawaddy)
10 October 2013
New Mon State Army’s base in Thanbyuzayat forcibly removed by Burma Army for its advanced military training school last week. NMSP has lodged complaints with state government. (IMNA)
10 October 2013
KIO and UPWC conclude 3 day talks, agreeing to lay foundation for political dialogue, reopen roads, establish joint monitoring committee and develop plan for return of IDPs. The KIO has not ruled out signing the nationwide ceasefire, but they have to work out “their exact policy”, according to peace broker Lamai Gum Ja. (DVB)
11 October 2013
The alternative constitutional draft could come out at the end of next month (November), says Hkun Okker, leader of the UNFC constitution drafting team. (Irrawaddy)
Shans/ Shan State
29 September 2013
Institute for International Development (IID) has been awarded a German government development agency (GIZ) funded project to strengthen capacity of the Leading Body, local administration and civil society in the Danu Self-Administered Zone in Shan State and assist with formulation of a Regional Development Plan. (Press Release)
4-5 October 2013
Wa spokesman Aung Myint says they have made agreement to take census in 2014. The government will form six teams and provide necessary trainings and required facilities to them. It also discusses recruiting labor force from mainland Burma. (Mizzima)
4-5 October 2013
Naypyitaw delegation meets Xiao Minliang, Vice Chairman of Wa “State”, in Panghsang. Discussion topics include:
- Nationwide ceasefire signing
- Citizenship scrutiny cards
- 2014 census
- Appointment of municipal staff
- Job creation strategies for Wa
Economy/ Business
8 October 2013
The World Bank has revised its 2013 economic forecast for Myanmar up from 6.5% to 6.8% following a record setting $ 4 billion in the 2012-13 fiscal year from gas exports, surpassing $ 3.5 billion last year. (Myanmar Times)
Human Rights
4 October 2013
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) chairman Dr Akihiko Tanaka says JICA will contribute $ 910 million to aid the growth of internal infrastructure, including rural and social development. (Development)
8 October 2013
Burma announces plan to free 56 more political prisoners. About 135 remain and another 232 facing trials, says Bo Kyi of AAPP. (VOA)
9 October 2013
UN human rights expert Tomas Ojea Quintana says release of political prisoners must be unconditional. The Code of Criminal Procedure enables attachment of conditions to the discharge of prisoners, such as the imposition of the remaining sentence if the President judges that a condition of release has been broken. (UN News Center)
10 October 2013
Burma removes 1,010 doctors from its blacklist, according to Myo Win Aung, ministry director at the President’s Office. (Irrawaddy)
10 October 2013
NLD spokesman Nyan Win, 70, says he has been fined 1,000 kyat ($1) for claiming that a thin layer of wax had been put over check boxes for candidates of his party during the 2012 by-elections. Marks made on the wax could later be rubbed off to cancel the vote. (AFP)
Environment
11 October 2013
Recent winners of 16 onshore energy blocks are required to perform environmental impact assessments (EIA) before final approval, according to an energy ministry official. They include:
- Italy’s Eni
- Malaysia’s Petronus
- Pakistan’s PVT
- India’s ONGC Videsh
- Canada’s Pacific Hunt
Read More
Weekly Wrap-up, No.645 (21-27 September 2013)
- WOMEN AND EHTNIC LEADERS: NOW THAT WE KNOW WHAT WE WANT, WHAT’S NEXT?
- DON’T BE TOO HAPPY WITH NAYPYITAW’S SIGNING OF NUKE PROTOCOL!
- NATIONWIDE CEASEFIRE IN OCTOBER, HAVE ALL THOSE CONCERNED SEEN THE DRAFT?
- CENTRAL BANK SAYS THERE ARE $7.6 BILLION IN FOREIGN BANKS! SHOULD THE PEOPLE BE HAPPY?
- MORE FIGHTING AS NATIONWIDE CEASEFIRE SIGNING DRAWS CLOSER!
- BANGKOK POST DOUBTS RELATIONS ARE IMPROVING!
Cartoon
Tips for all: To be happy and not to be unhappy, make a choice!
Think Piece
Peace will not be realized only by negotiations between the armed groups and the government. The voice of the people in conflict zones must also be taken into consideration.
Min Ko Naing, 88 Generation Students, 21 September 2013, at the Shan-Kayah-Mon Forum
The signing of the Additional Protocol on 17 September is but the first of three steps in the process of opening up Burma’s nuclear secrets, and diplomatic bureaucracy, could add many more years before Burma even begins to comply:
- The second step is to ratify the President’s signature in the legislatures
- Then Burma must put in place an internal administrative structure to poll all stakeholders who have any nuclear materials or activities and then produce declarative reports for IAEA to investigate and verify. This process can take many years unless Burma unilaterally cuts the red tape itself.
Democratic Voice of Burma, 22 September 2013
Buddhist extremism against Muslims is sweeping through Sri Lanka and Myanmar:
In Sri Lanka, it is the Bodu Bala Sena (BBS)
In Myanmar, it is the 969 movement
The World Outline, 24 September 2013
If we do not change the constitution, we cannot say our country is really a democracy. If we hold an election with an unfair constitution, the result will also be unfair.
Aung San Suu Kyi, speaking on the 25th anniversary of the NLD founding, 27 September 2013
The World
25 September 2013
Speaking at the UN in New York, Malala Yousafzia, the Pakistani girl who was shot by a Taliban gunman last October, calls for books not guns, and teachers not soldiers. (AFP)
International Relations
20 September 2013
40 activists of Kamtapur Liberation Organization (KLO) from North Bengal have gone to Myanmar through the Assam border for arms and explosive-making training, according to state intelligence branch. (Hindustan Times, Kolkata)
22 September 2013
Official sources say Burma has approved UNESCO’s peace education project in Maungdaw, Buthidaung and Rathedaung townships in Rakhine state, as a means of fostering mutual respect for cultural diversity. 350 teachers will be trained in peace education. The project is supported by Belgium government. (Xinhua)
24 September 2013
World Bank approves $ 140 million interest-free loan for a powerplant project in Burma. (AFP)
25 September 2013
NK News reports Burma continues to enjoy furtive defense relationship with North Korea by using front companies and false flags to ship military cargo from Pyongyang to Rangoon. It quotes official dispatch dated 23 June by Than Tun, general director of the military-run firm Union of Myanmar Economic Holdings (UMEH) backing Pyongyang in its fight against US “imperialists.” (DVB)
26 September 2013
The Elders, a group of former world leaders formed by Nelson Mandela in 2007, at the end of 3-day visit, appeals for end to impunity in Rakhine. It is led by ex-President Jimmy Carter. (AFP)
26 September 2013
Burma government has not endorsed the UN declaration to end sexual violence in conflict zones which was signed by 113 member countries this week. “If they sign, they will have to follow up on a lot of cases in the country,” says Tin Tin Nyo of Women’s League of Burma. (Irrawaddy)
27 September 2013
Joint delegation from US state and treasury departments concludes visit to Burma, where they have met American companies and reviewed impact of easing US sanctions over the past year. It will be a long and involved review process to change Washington’s Specially Designated Nationals Lists of individuals, groups and entities subject to economic sanctions, according to Sarah Hutchison, US embassy spokeswoman. (Irrawaddy)
Thai-Burma Relations
17 September 2013
Senior General Min Aung Hlaing informs Thai PM Yingluck Shinawatra in Bangkok he guarantees the country’s “political stability and urge Thai businessmen to do business in Myanmar.” (Eleven)
21 September 2013
Thai trawler fired upon in disputed waters and seized by Burmese navy near Ranong-Kawsawng. The incident comes about despite warming in ties between Naypyitaw and Bangkok, says Thai navy spokesman. (Bangkok Post)
22 September 2013
Thaksin Shinawatra “runs into” and chats with Aung San Suu Kyi visiting Singapore Grand Prix. (Bangkok Post)
22-26 September 2013
Speaker Shwe Mann visits Thailand as a guest of the kingdom’s National Assembly Speaker, Somsak Kiatsuranond. (Irrawaddy)
23 September 2013
Shan State Chief Minister Sao Aung Myat agrees to cooperate with Thai entrepreneurs to upgrade Kengtung-Taunggyi road during a meeting with Thai delegates led by Chiangmai governor. He also allows Thai Airways to operate direct flights to Kengtung. Both sides also discuss 7 point MoU to link Kengtung and Chiangmai, sister cities founded by King Mangrai in the 13th century. (Eleven)
25 September 2013
Myanmar military chief’s claim that Thai-Myanmar relations are their most cordial in history is misleading at best:
- Continued flood of drugs
- No steps taken against billionaire traffickers
- Continued flow of stateless persons from Myanmar
27 September 2013
The first tripartite meeting with Japan attending as a potential third partner in the Dawei development project held in Rangoon. (Bangkok Post)
Politics/ Inside Burma
17 September 2013
Anti-Corruption Law, approved by National Assembly, signed by President Thein Sein. (RFA)
22 September 2013
If the 2008 constitution is not amended, sustainable peace cannot be restored, the NLD statement read out by Nang Khin Htwe Myint, CEC member, at the Taunggyi Trust Building for Peace seminar. (Eleven)
27 September 2013
Speaking on 25th anniversary of the NLD’s founding, Aung San Suu Kyi notes that “civilian groups are not in touch with the Tatmadaw” and extends “hand of friendship and peace” to the Burmese military. (Irrawaddy/DVB)
Ethnic Affairs
14 September 2013
Emergency meeting held by United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC) resolves not to accept Naypyitaw offer for nationwide ceasefire signing. All members except for the Shan State Progress Party (SSPP) attend it. (KIC)
17 September 2013
The Shan-Kayah-Mon forum, applied on 24 August for permission for convening, approved by government just 4 days ahead of its opening. (SHAN)
19 September 2013
The Myanmar government will commit itself to political dialogue only on the occasion of the nationwide ceasefire signing, according to Hla Maung Shwe, senior advisor to Myanmar Peace Center. (Eleven)
21 September 2013
Speaking at the seminar in Taunggyi, Minister Aung Min says a national dialogue will be held in early 2014. Two stages: agreements on nationwide ceasefire and on framework for political dialogue are needed to successfully hold it. A total of 16 armed groups will be invited. (Xinhua)
21-23 September 2013
Shan-Kayah-Mon Trustbuilding for Peace forum attended by a total of 331 individuals including representatives of 21 parties, 15 armed groups and 3 civic groups. 31 observers attend, including members of the government. They call for:
- Nationwide ceasefire
- Abolition of laws that do not meet democratic standards, including the Unlawful Associations Act
- Genuine federal union
- Convention representing all national races based on Panglong spirit
- Amendment to the constitution.
24 September 2013
U Aye Tha Aung, a member of the drafting committee of a new constitution, says it will be completed by late October and finalized in November. It will not be submitted to the Parliament but at a national conference which will probably take place in a foreign country. (Mizzima)
26 September 2013
Hla Maung Shwe of Myanmar Peace Center (MPC) says peace talks with KIO will resume on 8-10 October. Technical teams from both sides will meet on 2-3 October. (Mizzima)
Shans/ Shan State
26 September 2013
A study released by NGOs today say more than half of all male sex workers in Chiangmai are from Shan State. There are also some who are ethnic Chin and Karen. Among Thai respondents, there are highland tribes such as Lisu, Lahu and Akha. (Irrawaddy)
27 September 2013
Sao Yawdserk, leader of the Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army (RCSS/SSA) says he is writing a letter to Vice Senior General Soe Win to settle the ongoing problem of conflict between the two sides in a peaceful way. Since the ceasefire has been signed, the two have already fought 133 clashes, including 8 between 13-24 September. (SHAN)
Economy/ Business
11 September 2013
The Kyaukphyu-Kunming railway might be completed in 2015. It will include a 95 mile long new railway (Minbu-Badan-Kyaukphyu). When completed it will be linked to Minbu, Magwe, Mandalay, Lashio and Muse. Plan for crossborder railway between Muse and Jiegao has also been established. (Yunnan Information)
20 September 2013
Central Bank chairman Kyaw Kyaw Maung, at a press conference in Naypyitaw, confirms claims that government as well as private clients are holding foreign reserves in oversees bank account. He says the amount is $ 7.6 billion and not $ 1 billion as being reported. (Irrawaddy)
Human Rights
23 September 2013
Women’s Forum held in Rangoon by Women’s League of Burma (WLB) and Women Organizations Network (WON), alls for a complete rewrite of the 2008 constitution. (DVB)
23 September 2013
Burmese language journal of Human Rights and Democracy, launched in May, is showing strong sales, rising from 1,000 copies to 2,000 this month, according to director Zaw Oo. It receives funding from Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA). (Irrawaddy)
21 September 2013
300 people join colorful International Day of Peace rally through the city of Rangoon. No one prosecuted, unlike last September when 11 people were charged in connection with the rally. (AFP)
23 September 2013
Printing of International Herald begins in Rangoon. (Irrawaddy)
Drugs
21 September 2013
Phoemphong Chavalit, deputy ONCB (Office of Narcotics Control Board) chief says the ONCB wants establishment of an Asean drug enforcement agency to deal with drugs. Most drugs are brought into Thailand from production sites in Myanmar and Laos. (Bangkok Post)
24 September 2013
4-day 34th Asean Senior Officials Meeting on Drug Matters (ASOD) held in Naypyitaw. Police chief Maj Gen Zaw Win tells opening ceremony Burma is combating the problem through two-pronged approach: reduction of demand and supply. Pseudoephedrine has been 6 years high and most of the trafficking are from the Indian border. (Xinhua)
War
21 September 2013
Relief and Victims Care (RVC) Committee of parliament chairman Khin Shwe donates relief aid worth K 187.4 million ($ 187,400) for IDPs to town elders in Myitkyina. (Eleven)
23 September 2013
Shan State Army (SSA) North attacked by Burma Army in Mong Yen tract, Namtu township. The first attack was launched on 17 September, after the SSA notified the Tatmadaw of its movement from Wanhai HQ, according to SSA spokesman. (SHAN)
Read More
Weekly Diary, No.642 (1-7 September 2013)
- A LOT TO LEARN FROM UK!
- AMERICAN CAPITAL DEPLOYMENT? VERY LITTLE!
- SHWE MANN BEGINS CAMPAIGN IN SHAN STATE!
- MIGRANT WORKERS GETS ANOTHER REPRIEVE!
- SHAN HERALD REGISTERED INSIDE!
Tips for foreign firms: Is Burma at peace now?
Think Piece
Disconnectivity in Burma
There are about 500,000 Burmese who have access to the Internet. February report by RFA says nearly 4 million have landline connection.
Internet players include Red Link, owned by U Shwe Mann’s sons; Sky Net MPS, owned by President Thein Sein’s close ally, Shwe Than, and Teleport, a state firm.
Internet speed is way behind Vietnam and Laos, though it can be faster due to use of fiber optics. Slow connection is yet another from of censorship, says a professor. The government is only “putting up a show,” says Burma Partner ship’s Jessica Steve.
Irrawaddy, 3 September 2013
No communication freedom, no peace
Dr Suikhar, Chin National Front, notes communication is “linked to the establishment of sustainable peace in the future.
Irrawaddy, 3 September 2013
On the surface, it looks open, and in many ways, it is more open compared to years ago. But all the factors are there that would indicate what the real Burma is now and what it intends to be in the future. In reality, nothing is really changed.
Jessica Steven, Burma Partnership, reported by Irrawaddy, 3 September 2013
Five lessons for national reconciliation
Reconciliation happens when the sense of shared opportunity is greater than the separate sense of grievance
- The past can be honestly examined, but it can never be judged in a way that is going to be the satisfaction of everyone (Reconciliation is never going to be about people changing their mind about the past. It is really going to be about changing the mind about the future)
- There has to be a future framework that people will accept as just
- The purpose of what is being created as a future framework is anchored in democracy
- Reconciliation is easier to achieve if the politics of the country as a whole is seen to be effective in delivering improvement to the people. The government has a challenge of honesty, a challenge of transparency as well as a challenge of efficacy (getting things delivered for the people)
Tony Blair, speech given in Bangkok on August, Bangkok Post
Washington’s main concern in Burma is not democracy and human rights. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel had stressed it was important Myanmar sever ties with North Korea. Its main concern is strategic: to keep China at bay and North Korea out.
Bertil Lintner, Asian Times, 5 September 2013
How to tackle communal violence: Thein Sein’s way
- Mindset change
- Education
- Job opportunities
- Burth control
The World
5 September 2013
Two Himalayan peaks are to be named Hillary and Tenzing, in honor of Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, who successfully climbed the Everest on 29 May 1953. (Reuters)
6 September 2013
New words added to the Oxford dictionary’s latest quarterly update include “fomo”, acronym for ‘fear of missing out.’ (Bangkok Post)
International Relations
1 September 2013
Malaysia launches 3 month crackdown on illegal immigrants. (Eleven) Among 2,433 detainees are 555 Myanmar nationals. (Bernama)
2 September 2013
Vijay Nambiar leaves Burma. (DVB)
3-6 September 2013
President Thein Sein attends Asean-China Expo, held in Nanning. Meets Premier Li Keqiang. (Xinhua)
5 September 2013
Very little American capital deployed inside Burma. Reasons:
- Finding local partner is a challenge
- Americans not allowed to deal with individuals or companies on OFAC sanctions list
- High cost of real estate
(The Diplomat)
5 September 2013
Burma ranks 102th worst country out of 176 nations in the global index of health care access released by World Vision. It places the country one place above Laos but far below Thailand, ranked 62nd. (Irrawaddy)
Thai-Burma Relations
1 September 2013
Meeting with Migrant Worker Rights Network (MWRN), quoting Pravit Khiengpol, Director General of the labor ministry, says migrant workers can re-enter the kingdom after staying one month in Myanmar, instead of 3 years, as agreed by the two countries in 2003. (Irrawaddy)
4 September 2013
Up to 100,000 Burmese migrants in Thailand whose 4 year work visas have expired will find no work back home. Some have chosen to remain in the country illegally. (Irrawaddy)
4 September 2013
Thai Journalists Association (TJA) and visiting Myanmar Journalists Association (MJA) sign MoU on a media exchange programme, the first of its kind between the two countries. It is signed by TTA president Pradit Ruangdit and head of MJA delegation Aung Hla Tun. (Bangkok Post)
5 September 2013
Upper House Speaker Khin Aung Myint pays courtesy call on Thai PM Yingluck Shinawatra during visit to Thailand. He hopes demarcation of the border will be accomplished soon in order to create stable sense of security enabling both sides to move onto further development. (NNT)
5 September 2013
Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) says investors are streaming across the border:
- Preferential trade arrangements for Burma by the US and Europe
- Bangkok implementation of 300 baht daily minimum wage
- Special economic zones can be established to impose minimum wage
7 September 2013
Tony Jaa aka Jaa Panom, of Ong Bak (film) fame, all set to be a part of Fast and Furious 7. (Bangkok Post)
Politics/ Inside Burma
3 September 2013
Aye Mawk, MP, Lower House, USDP, and Secretary of review committee, says its December report will be submitted only after negotiating with everyone from each party. (Eleven)
6 September 2013
Panel members of the charter review committee says to get the best results, the proposals should be discussed with the people. (Irrawaddy)
Ethnic Affairs
28 August 2013
Dr Tuja, former KIO Vice Chairman, applies for registration of Kachin State Democracy Party (KSDP). (KNG)
3 September 2013
90 minute meeting in Kengtung between U Shwe Mann and Wa focuses on development projects. (Irrawaddy)
4 September 2013
Nai Thet Lwin and Nai Soe Myint of Mon Democracy Party will be attending the UNFC-UPWC meeting on 8 September as UNA observers, say Sai Nyunt Lwin. (Mizzima)
5 September 2013
Aye Tha Aung, Arakan League for Democracy (ALD) leader, announces a new constitution will be drafted on 3 September to be completed by October. The concept of states based on ethnicity is a controversial one, says Hanthawaddy Win Tin. (Mizzima)
Shans/ Shan State
2 September 2013
U Shwe Mann meets RCSS, PNLO and SNPLO representatives in Taunggyi. Lt Gen Aung Than Tut interrupts when the RCSS informs Shwe Mann about clashes taking place, saying it is to protect locals from RCSS recruiting new soldiers and collecting taxes. (Irrawaddy)
2 September 2013
Union Assembly Speaker Shwe Mann meets 500 representatives from Shan and Kayah states in Taunggyi. In response to calls for federalism, he promises to do what he can. (Mizzima) Federalism must be a style that conform to our country, he says, and that it is important for peace. (DVB) He tells meeting with Shan State cabinet: No country has separate army for different states. All armies in different states must be inducted into the Union Army. (Mizzima)
Economy/ Business
4 September 2013
Burma this week signed a deal with China’s Sunshine Kaidi New Energy Group to develop carbon-cutting projects under the UN Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). (Reuters)
Human Rights
5 September 2013
The junta is gone, but its anti-press freedom laws still around:
- Electronic Transactions Act in 2004. A motion to abolish it in January rejected by the lower house
- The new printing and publishing enterprises law, already passed, differs little from the original one
6 September 2013
The Shan Herald Agency for News (SHAN) becomes the 7th member of the 12 member Burma News International (BNI) to get registered in Burma. It will be producing a bilingual monthly newsletter, Shan and Burmese, beginning October. (SHAN)
Environment
4 September 2013
Agriculture and irrigation ministry reports farmland affected by floodwaters in Karen, Mon, Arakan. Shan, Pegu, Rangoon and Irrawaddy, a total of 40,000 acres. Meanwhile, in Sagaing, Mandalay and Magwe, a complete lack of rain has killed crops. (DVB)
Drugs
1 September 2013
650,000 stimulant tablets unearthed by heavy rain in Tachilek. It was believed to be buried by the late Naw Kham. (DVB)
War
3 September 2013
Two clashes between KIA and Burma Army near Mongpaw, Muse township. 1 killed on the KIA side and at least 4 on the Burma Army side, according to eye witnesses. (KNG)
Read More
Weekly Diary, No.641 (24-31 August 2013)
- US: BETTER RELATIONS REST ON NPT-PYONGYANG RELATIONS!
- CHARTER SCRUTINY UP TO END OF YEAR!
- VJ COMES TO LAIZA!
- SHAN-KAREN TEAM MEETS VICE PRESIDENT!
- DISABLED VETERANS GET $31 PER YEAR!
Tips for non-confrontationists: It’ll be useful to remember!
Think Piece
Three persons cross a fast flowing stream:
- One goes with the stream
- The other goes against the stream
- The last one follows the middle path
Myanmar’s honeymoon with the world is being built on the bodies of Muslim victims throughout the country.
Abdallah Yahya A. al-Mouallioni, Saudi Arabia’s permanent representative to the UN, July press conference, reported by Bangkok Post, 2 September 2013
The World
25 August 2013
66 men and 4 women from former communist rebels graduate from Nepal’s military academy and become officers in the national army they once fought against. (AP)
International Relations
28 August 2013
Burma announces foreigners holding its visas can freely choose to travel to the country via any of its 6 entry points: Tachilek, Myawaddy, Kawsawng as well as Rangoon, Mandalay and Naypyitaw. (Bangkok Post)
28 August 2013
Burmese embassy in Washington told Matt Rains and Alia Mehboob from Lux Capio Photography Agency earlier this month they were banned from returning to Burma after they visited conflict-stricken areas of Arakan State in April. (DVB)
28-29 August 2013
Dialogue between US Defense Institute of International Legal Studies (DILS) led by Captain Robert Sanders meet Ministry of Defense officials led by Maj Gen Ye Aung. They discuss human rights awareness and values and activities of a modern military, says Ambassador Derek Mitchell. (Myanmar Times)
29 August 2013
Statement by US Defense Department says Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met his Burmese counterpart Lt-Gen Wai Lwin on the sidelines of the Asean defense meeting in Brunei. Hagel had discussed “the importance of Myanmar severing military ties to North Korea,” defense spokesman George Little says. (UPI)
30 August 2013
William Brownfield, Assistant Secretary of State for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, will be visiting Rangoon on 4 September, says State Department. (UPI)
Thai-Burma Relations
24 August 2013
Sutin Wannabovorn, former reporter for Reuters and AP, known for asking hard questions and challenging authority, has launched a book titled Nakkhao Sai Jon (Reporter on the bandits’ beat), sharing 40 years of his experience as a newshound. “Bandits” he has met included Khmer Rouge, Wa, Pulo, God’s Army and Khun Sa. (Bangkok Post)
Politics/ Inside Burma
23 August 2013
Union Election Commission sends out warning to political parties any party found to be accepting assistance in cash or kind from foreign countries will be banned under 407 (c) of the constitution. 2 Lower House MPs say assistance for social work should not be counted. (Mizzima)
23 August 2013
Election Commission’s bill debated in Lower House: Lawmakers can be removed if 1% of their constituents send complaints to EC. Shwe Mann and USDP lawmakers oppose the bill, but army representatives demand it should be approved. Debate suspended. If not approved, the president and union level high officials can be dismissed by parliament. If approved, lawmakers could be dismissed by the EC, made up of President’s men, says Hsipaw MP Ye Htun. (Irrawaddy)
27 August 2013
Union Parliament has approved plan to agree to $ 261.5 million loan from World Bank to support development projects. It is a 40 year loan at a fixed 0.75% interest rate. (DVB)
27 August 2013
Statement released by parliament says a 4-month review of the constitution has been approved:
- The 109 member committee will be divided into small groups to review the charter by sections
- It will also consider historical background, current realities, “political maturity of the people”, national reconciliation process, rule of law and stability
- Findings will be submitted by 31 December
- No punitive action will be taken against committee members criticizing the charter
27 August 2013
Lower House MP Pe Than, a member of Land Seizure Inquiry Commission, says Army’s decision to return 18,364 acres out of 297,000 acres seized is too slow, too less. At least another 19,000 acres should be returned. (Mizzima)
28 August 2013
Deputy defense minister Gen Kyaw Nyunt, in reply to MPs’ query, says veterans who sustained permanent disabilities receive only 30,000 kyat ($31) per annum. (Mizzima)
28 August 2013
Farmers rights bill approved by Upper House and Lower House. (Eleven)
30 August 2013
Burmese military erects No Child Soldiers billboard in downtown Rangoon. (Irrawaddy)
31 August 2013
President Thein Sein and Aung San Suu Kyi meet at presidential ranch in Naypyitaw. No details reported. (DVB)
Ethnic Affairs
25 August 2013
Mahn Nyein Maung, Karen leader, launches his book Against the storm, Across the sea, detailing his escape from Coco Islands in 1971 in a small boat. It was first published outside Burma in 2000. (Irrawaddy)
27 August 2013
UN special envoy Vijay Nambiar meets Shan community leaders in Myitkyina who say the KIO has worked only for the Kachin ethnic group and not for the Shan. (RFA)
28 August 2013
Vijay Nambiar visits Laiza and spends 5 hours holding talks with KIO officials and inspecting IDP camps. (RFA)
26-29 August 2013
Karen commanders hold conferences in Hlaing Bwe. Decides to uphold ceasefire with the government although the latter has refused to withdraw from 90 out of 300 outposts in KNU territory. (Mizzima)
29 August 2013
The UNFC and the government will meet in Chiangmai on 7 or 8 September to discuss: political framework and nationwide peace accord, according to Dr Khin Maung of UNFC, and Hla Maung Shwe of Myanmar Peace Center. (Irrawaddy)
31 August 2013
Shan-Karen delegation meets Union Peacemaking Work Committee (UPWC) led by Vice President Sai Mawk Kham. (SHAN)
Shans/ Shan State
23 August 2013
Meeting in Taunggyi announces trust-building conference in September. Karen, Karenni, Chin and Shan will be participants, according to spokesman Sai Leik. (DVB)
Economy/ Business
28 August 2013
Land prices in Muse, earlier 25 million kyat ($25,600) per acre, has climbed up to 100 million kyat ($ 105,000), following plans for 288 acre Central Economic Zone project was approved early this year. (Irrawaddy)
Human Rights
24 August 2013
42 houses and 15 shops burned down in Kantbalu, Sagaing region, following rumors that a Muslim man tried to sexually assault a young woman. (Irrawaddy)
26 August 2013
Teachers associations issue statement criticizing the sacking of a teacher in Naypyitaw for attending political rally and meetings. (Irrawaddy)
28 August 2013
Retired police officers’ criticism of today’s police force:
- Capacity building trainings to enable them to handle conflict situations
- Insufficient finances
- Cases when policemen have to buy their own uniforms
29 August 2013
Monywa court sentences Naw Ohn Hla to 2 years in prison with hard labor for Letpadaung protest earlier this month. (Irrawaddy)
2 September 2013
Human Rights Watch (HRW) says draft law relating to the forming of organizations, made public on 27 July, fails to meet international norms and should be revised:
- NGOs must obtain official registration
- Hand over authority to military
- Subject to decisions without appeal
Environment
2 September 2013
Sai Htun Yin, Minister for Electric Power, Shan State Government, says it is negotiating with Chinese Hanergy to begin Kunlong Hydro power project this year. The 1,400 megawatt project will be completed in 7 years under $ 1.4 billion investment. The government will receive 10% of the shares and 15% of electricity. (Mizzima)
Drugs
1 September 2013
Lt-Col Sai Harn, head of RCSS’s Anti Narcotics Committee (ANC), says implementation of October 2012 agreement for a joint project in Mong Nai and Mongpan has yet to take off:
- State government says they know nothing about the agreement and refuses entry to Mong Pan
- Government’s militia groups are involved in trafficking
- Further inaction will cause further suffering for the people
Read More
Weekly Wrap-up, No.640 (17-23 August 2013)
- WANTED! UN TO INVESTIATE CW IN BURMA!
- QUINTANA ENDS TRIP!
- MOM AND CHIN TO HOLD BIG MEETINGS!
- NEW FIGHTING IN SHAN STATE!
- DO ROHINGYAS MEAN BUSINESS?
Tips for the military: You know it strikes the right chord with you!
Think Piece
Japanese companies were the trailblazers for Asia where overseas investment is concerned, but even they had to move slowly and steadily. Toyota, for example, has been in the United States since 1957. It was another 15 years before Toyota opened a manufacturing plant there, and another decade before its cars become widely accepted in the North American market.
Bangkok Post, 19 August 2013
The World
21 August 2013
Gas attack by Syrian government kills 1,300 people near Damascus. West demands UN inspection. (Agencies)
International Relations
1 August 2013
US-Myanmar Trafficking in Persons dialogue held in Naypyitaw, led by Ambassador at Large Luis Cde Baca and Police Chief Maj Gen Zaw Win. (State Department)
19 August 2013
Quintana given open letter by 100 protestors in Meikhtila. (DVB)
21 August 2013
Indonesian police have arrested 8 more suspects in connection with a plot to bomb the Burmese embassy, bringing a total to 14 detainees since May. (AP)
21 August 2013
Quintana issues statement on 10 day visit to Burma. “Separation and segregation, of communities in Rakhine State is becoming increasingly permanent making restoration of trust difficult.” In Meikhtila, a crowd “punch and kick the windows and doors of the car”, incident left totally unprotected by the nearby police. (Press Release)
21 August 2013
Tomas Ojea Quintana says UN could provide only once a year to conflict zones. From July 2012-July 2013, UN could assist resistance-controlled areas only once. (Mizzima)
22 August 2013
Presidential spokesman Ye Htut says Quintana was never in any danger. (AP)
Quintana’s visit
16-17 August 2013
Chin State. Mindat and Kanpetlet. Chin Youth Organization complains “Kyemon” paper called Chins “Barbarians” comparing them to animals. (DVB)
18-19 August 2013
Shan State. Lashio and Namhsan. He meets Aye Aye Win, who was doused in petrol setting off violence. (DVB)
Thai-Burma Relations
17 August 2013
Migrant Workers Rights Network (MWRN) demands Thailand Myanmar issue concrete policy for migrant workers whose 4 year visas have expired. According to MoU signed or 15 June 2013, they must return to Burma and fulfill a 3 year homeland residency before returning to Thailand. (Mizzima)
Politics/ Inside Burma
19 August 2013
President Thein Sein warns local administrator at ward and village levels not to abuse their powers at a meeting on rural development held in Naypyitaw. (Mizzima)
Ethnic Affairs
17 August 2013
Arakan League for Democracy (AlD) and Rakhine Nationality Development Party (RNDP) announce they would merge into a single party and apply to be registered as Rakhine National Party (RNP). (Mizzima)
19 August 2013
Recently formed Mon National Congress (MNC) meets to plan Mon national seminar in Moulmein in December. New Mon State Party, Mon Democracy Party and All Mon Region Democracy Party are leading members. (IMNA)
22 August 2013
Chin groups will meet in Hakha, according to Salai Nge Pe, implementation committee member. They will review issues concerning politics, economy and culture and re-examine the status of 53 groups who all claim to be Chin. (DVB)
22 August 2013
Kachin State Red Cross says KIO has refused to accept its offer to provide household appliances for 1,300 families. The group says it cannot accept aid from the government until a stable peace has been established. The appliances were donated by Denmark and Singapore red crosses. (Mizzima)
22 August 2013
UNFC (11 parties) and UNA (12 parties) “are in a state of laying down policies” for the federal-based constitution, according to Hkun Okker, UNFC deputy Secretary. (Eleven News Media)
23 August 2013
Dr Tuja, former vice chairman of KIO, who had resigned to contest elections in 2010 — and was rejected — will be registering a new party, Kachin State Democracy Party (KSDP), according to him. (KNG)
Shans/ Shan State
15 August 2013
Shan Tribes Association Interim of Kachin State sends letter to UN special rapporteur to look into the plight of ethnic people:
- Shans make up two third of the state population
- No minister of state chairman positions for Shans
- Conflicts continue, Shans face more difficulties
20 August 2013
Shan State Army (SSA) leader Yawdserk says amendment, and not writing a new charter, is the way to peace and reconciliation in Burma. (SHAN)
19-22 August 2013
Workshop on Federalism in Lashio, attended by more than 70 participants, including White Tiger and Tiger Head parties. It was led by Dr Salai Lian H.Sakhong. (SHAN)
Economy/ Business
19 August 2013
Foreign trade hits $ 7.080 billion in the fires’ three months of the 2013-14 fiscal year:
Export Imports
2012-13 $3.152 billion $3.01 billion
2013-14 $3.161 billion $3.919 billion
(DVB)
21 August 2013
Freight and logistics firm Damco, a subsidiary of Danish firm Maersk, announces it has been granted license to operate in Burma. (DVB)
Human Rights
19-20 August 2013
500 farmers hold 2-day event organized by 88 Generation Students. They call on the government to address worsening land confiscation issue and to return land seized by previous regime. (Irrawaddy)
19 August 2013
Ministry of Information releases statement saying 14 out of 17 draft articles of the new media bill have been agreed. Unresolved are issuing of media licenses, whether to have one central press council or devolve power to local levels and the definition of what is in the “public interest”. The two sides, IPC and MoI, have agreed to obey the decision of the Union Assembly, according to IPC member Zaw Thet Htwe. (DVB)
20 August 2013
New York based Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) warns “mass atrocities” if attitudes behind violence against Muslims are left unchecked. (Reuters)
21 August 2013
Teacher Soe Soe Khaing, Zabuthiri, says school director Myint Zaw has ordered her to resign as she had violated school rule prohibing teachers from involvement in politics. She had attended a meeting with 88 Generation Students. (Irrawaddy)
Environment
16 August 2013
$1.6 million will be spent in the 2013 fiscal year on socioeconomic development projects along the Shwe pipelines. Contract signed and to be implemented by two subsidiaries of CNPC will cover 33 projects in Shan, Arakan, Mandalay and Magwe. (New Light of Myanmar)
Drugs
18 August 2013
A Nissan pickup truck searched by police in Maesai. No illegal items found. But 2 passengers acting nervously and driver fails to answer incoming calls. Later a Toyota Vigo is stopped and 958,000 speed pills found. (Bangkok Post)
War
16 August 2013
Asian News International (AN) says recent images published in an Urdu-language internet forum suggest the Taliban has recruited Rohingya Muslims and is training them in Myanmar. The force is led by Abu Sufiya and Abu Arif. It claims to have destroyed 2 Burmese vehicles killing 17 soldiers recently. It also claims having beheaded 3 Buddhists, including a priest, who were responsible for slaying Muslims. (BD News 24)
17 August 2013
Former NDA-K Border Guard Force attacks KIA troops in Chipwe and Sawlaw, backed by Burma Army’s LIB 521. (Irrawaddy)
22 August 2013
Clash in Nawng Lerh, Mongpan township. Burma Army suffers 4 dead, Shan State Army 1 dead and 2 wounded. (SHAN)
Obituary
19 August 2013
U Htay Myaing, pen-name Dagon Taya, 95, passes away at his home in Aung Ban. (Irrawaddy)
Read More
Weekly Wrap-up, No. 639 (10 August -18 August 2013)
- SHAN GOES ON AIR THIS WEEK!
- QUINTANA IN BURMA! WHO IS IN NEED OF NEW APPROACH, HE OR US?
- AUTHORITIES TARGET ROYAL ROSE!
- COUNTRY NEEDS MONEY FOR SCHOOLS, NOT GUNS!
- SSA-BURMA ARMY AT EACH OTHER’S THROAT AGAIN!
Tips for leaders: Deeds, not words!
Think Piece
In 1969, the future British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher predicted that "No woman in my time will be prime minister."
Ripley's Believe It or Not! Bangkok Post, 11 August 2013
The World
12 August 2013
US State Department says Cambodia has suspended military cooperation programs with US and others. Defense attaché in Washington says he has not received information from Phnom Penh about it. (AP)
13 August 213
Foreign ministers of Asean meet in Thailand's Hua Hin to discuss ways to strengthen the grouping once it becomes a single community in 2015. (Bangkok Post)
17 August 2013
Most endangered languages, having no written form, their data is collected and goes into Language Archive (TLA) in the Dutch city of Nijmegan. (DPA/BP)
International Relations
13 August 2013
UN special rapporteur Quintana visits parents of Win Maw Oo, whose photo appeared in 3 October 1988 Newsweek issue. (Irrawaddy)
14 August 2013
88 Generation leaders, meeting Tomas Quintana, urge him to approach his job with greater emphasis on understanding the country’s cultural and historical underpinnings more than speaking critically of the resultant conditions. (Irrawaddy)
15 August 2013
Quintana meets Kachin state government in Myitkyina. He fails to obtain permission to visit KIO headquarters in Laiza, according to UN Office Myanmar. (Mizzima)
Thai-Burma Relations
11 August 2013
Tai Yai youths that attacked a 19 year old Somnuek Torbue in Chiangmai on 24 June are just copy cats, not the original Samurai gang that terrorized the city a decade ago, according to former members. (Bangkok Post)
12 August 2013
H.M. Queen Sirikit's 81st birthday, also known as "Mother's Day," celebrated nationwide. (Agencies)
14 August 2013
FM Wunna Maung Lwin proposes visa exemption for free entry of the two countries’ nationals on the sidelines of the Asean foreign ministers meeting. FM Surapong Towichakchaikul says before waiving visas, the two sides should address concerns about Myanmar citizens illegally entering the country to work. (Bangkok Post)
Politics/ Inside Burma
13 August 2013
Royal Rose Hall owner Soe Nyunt in Bahan township says he was summoned by the township administrator on 31 July, ordering him to seek official permission 20 days in advance if he was renting his establishment for any politically related gatherings.
On 5 August (8 August according to DVB), Rangoon division issued directive for Bahan township requiring all residents, organizations and business owners to provide officials with 20 days notice if they plan to host an event.
Bahan is home to NLD HQ and Royal Rose. (Irrawaddy/DVB)
14 August 2013
Shwe Mann says the controversial Printing and Publishing Enterprise Bill passed by the Lower House could still be amended before it becomes law. (Irrawaddy)
15 August 2013
House Speaker Shwe Mann says he understands why the former regime allowed land confiscations. But the government’s orders were not followed properly when the Army seized large plots of land from the people. (Irrawaddy)
15 August 2013
Committee of Guarantees, Pledges and Undertaking Vetting Committee issues report on various ministries. As per the report, education ministry had failed to meet its targets in 220 counts, making it the worst performing ministry. MPs have blamed it on financial constraints as well as negligence. (Mizzima)
15 August 2013
Naypyitaw police are investigating complaints against Maj Gen Soe Shein, a personal staff office of Gen Than Shwe, who villagers said had pointed a gun at them and threatened to shoot on 5 July. Gen Soe Shein say he owns the land in dispute officially. (Myanmar Times)
Ethnic Affairs
16 August 2013
The United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC) says it has received a notification from Myanmar Peace Center (MPC) to meet in the last week of August. U Aung Min will head the delegation, according to Mahn Mahn, UNFC technical team head. (Mizzima)
16 August 2013
Regional governments considering plans for local development after President pledged last week wider mandates:
- Better transportation in Karenni
- Power project in Arakan
- Proposal for allocation of 50% all taxes from extractive industry to state governments
- Management of extractive industries in own state by state government
Shans/ Shan State
12 August 2013
Sai
Ai Pao, leader of White Tiger party (SNDP) says the plan to unite 3
Shan parties have been abandoned, due to restrictions by Election
Commission in June:- Original parties must be dissolved
- MPs must submit application if they wish to represent the new party
Sai Htay Aung of Taileng National Development Party (TNDP) says there is no plan to unite, since we are from a different region. (Mizzima)
13 August 2013
Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS) leader Yawd Serk says his units have been instructed to make direct contact with Burma Army units in the field and request notification of their movements through Shan army-controlled areas. Some units have responded positively, he says. (SHAN)
16 August 2013
Shan State Progress Party/Shan State Army (SSPP/SSA) celebrates 42nd anniversary of the founding of the SSPP at Wanhai headquarters. The ceremony presided over by party President Sao Pang Fa. (SHAN)
Economy/ Business
10 August 2013
South Korea's Incheon wins tender for the construction of $1 billion Hanthawaddy Airport, says State media. (AP)
12 August 2013
Yoma,
a Singapore-listed company, says that a consortium it has formed with
two Japanese firms, Mitsubishi and JALUX, has been selected by Myanmar
authorities to upgrade and operate Mandalay International Airport. (Mizzima)13 August 2013
A lack of infrastructure, human resources and technology, along with unfinished legal framework for businesses, are a concern for Burma as Asean attempts to form a single market within the next two years, according to business people. Apart from rice industry, there are still gaps, says a rice federation member. (Irrawaddy)
16 August 2013
British firms are staying out of Burma until after the 2015 elections, according to Burma Campaign UK’s Mark Farmaner, after talking to a number of companies:
- Burma is not significantly cheaper to source from
- Very hard to be sure factories they are dealing with are not associated with cronies or the military
- Also very hard to be sure workers’ rights will be respected
- Human rights problems have not gone away
(Irrawaddy)
Human Rights
8 August 2013
Anti Corruption law passed by parliament. It replaces anti-corruption law enacted in 1948. (Mizzima)
9 August 2013
Police rake Rohingya crowd with gunfire, killing at least 2 people and injuring more than a dozen. The crowd had disputed over police custody of a dead Rohingya. (Reuter)
9 August 2013
30 Rohingya asylum seekers escape from Sadao district police station in Songkla province. (Reuters)
10 August 2013
Ko Myo, 42 year old Burmese national, arrested on 1 August in Surat Thani and faces human trafficking charges according to Police Maj Gen Chavalit Sawangpuech. (AP)
Drugs
12 August 2013
Rule of Law Committee headed by Augn San Suu Kyi submits annual report. It states police forcuses only on arresting drug abusers rather than drug traffickers. It made field visits to Mandalay, Naypyitaw, Rangoon and Irrawaddy regions. (Mizzima)
16 August 2013
Thai authorities deport a suspected yaba trafficker, Shwe Nu, 46, who was arrested on 2 June in Bangkok. (The Nation)War
10 August 2013
ABSDF signs Union level truce with government. (Irrawaddy/Agencies)
15 August 2013
Clash in Mongyen tract, Namtu township. Unknown number killed and 4 injured on the Burma Army’s Light Infantry Battalion 504 side. Shan State Army (SSA) North also suffers some wounded. Shell falls in a corn field injures a woman. Her husband taken as a guide by the Burma Army. (SHAN)
Obituary
14 August 2013
Writer, poet and satirist Min Lu dies at the age of 60. He is a son of famous film director and writer Thadu. (Irrawaddy)
Read More
