An auspicious ceremony to administer Buddha’s teachings to mark the Buddha Day on Kason Full Moon Day 1388 ME was held at Agga Dhipati Sasana Beikman in the precinct of Maravijaya Buddha Park in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.

The congregation, led by Vice-President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Nyo Saw and his wife Daw San San Aye, and Vice-President Nan Ni Ni Aye, took the Five Precepts from Joint-Secretary of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Administrator Sayadaw of Maha Withokdayon Shwegyin Taikthit Monastery of Bahan Township in Yangon Region Aggamaha Pandita Dvipitakadhara Pitakattaya Paragu Bhaddanta Sirikancanabhivamsa, who also administered a Dhamma Katha on the full moon day of Kason (Buddha Day).

Vice-President U Nyo Saw presented cash for nine prerequisites, and Deputy Minister for Religious Affairs U Lin Aung accepted the donations.

The congregation listened to the sermon delivered by the SSMNC Joint Secretary Sayadaw of Maha Withokdayon Shwegyin Taikthit Monastery and shared the merits gained.

Also, present at the ceremony were Chief Justice of the Union U Tha Htay, Chairman of the Constitutional Tribunal of the Union U Aung Zaw Thein and his wife, Chairman of the Union Election Commission U Than Soe and his wife, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Kyaw Swa Lin and his wife, Union ministers and their wives, the Auditor-General of the Union, the Commander-in-Chief (Navy), the Commander-in-Chief (Air), the Chairman of the Union Civil Service Board, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, the Chief of the General Staff (Army, Navy and Air), the Governor of the Central Bank of Myanmar, the Chairman of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief, deputy ministers, and religious association members. — MNA/TTA

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A ceremony to offer alms and day meals to venerable Sayadaws who attended the ceremony to mark the Buddha Day of Kason Full Moon (Vesak Day) 1388 ME took place at Agga Dhipati Sasana Beikman in the precinct of Maravijaya Buddha Park yesterday morning, with Vice-President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar U Nyo Saw and his wife Daw San San Aye and Vice-President Nan Ni Ni Aye in attendance.

The ceremony was attended by members of the Sangha led by Vice-Chairman of the State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee, Presiding Patron of Sasana Wepulla Monastery in Meiktila of Mandalay Region Aggamaha Pandita Aggamaha Saddhammajotikadhaja Bhaddanta Kovida and Joint-Secretary of the SSMNC Administrator Sayadaw of Maha Withokdayon Shwegyin Taikthit of Bahan Township in Yangon Region Aggamaha Pandita Dvipitakadhara Pitakattaya Paragu Bhaddanta Sirikancanabhivamsa.

Vice-President U Nyo Saw offered alms in the emerald alms-bowl, fruits, flowers, water and oil lamps to the Maravijaya Naungdawgyi Buddha Image in the Beikman building.

The congregation took the Nine Precepts from the SSMNC Vice-Chairman Sayadaw, and members of the Sangha recited the Metta Sutta.

Vice-President U Nyo Saw and his wife donated offerings to Presiding Patron of Meiktila Sasana Wepulla Monastery SSMNC Vice-Chairman Sayadaw, while Vice-President Nan Ni Ni Aye offered alms to the Joint Secretary Sayadaw.

Chief Justice of the Union U Tha Htay, Chairman of the Constitutional Tribunal of the Union U Aung Zaw Thein and his wife, Chairman of the Union Election Commission U Than Soe and his wife, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army) General Kyaw Swa Lin and his wife, Union ministers and attendees donated offerings to venerable Sayadaws.

The SSMNC Joint-Secretary Sayadaw delivered a sermon, and the congregation shared merits gained.

After the ceremony, Vice-President U Nyo Saw and his wife, Vice-President Nan Ni Ni Aye and attendees offered day meals to members of the Sangha led by the SSMNC Vice-Chairman, Presiding Patron of Meiktila Sasana Wepulla Monastery.

Also, present at the ceremony were the Auditor-General of the Union, the Commander-in-Chief (Navy), the Commander-in-Chief (Air), the Chairman of the Union Civil Service Board, the Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, the Chief of the General Staff (Army, Navy and Air), the Governor of the Central Bank of Myanmar, the Chairman of the Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, senior Tatmadaw officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and deputy ministers. — MNA/TTA

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The government, employers and workers unite in a tripartite drive to build a skilled workforce and expand employment opportunities.

PRESIDENT of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Agga Maha Thray Sithu Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma U Min Aung Hlaing sent a message to the ceremony to mark International Workers’ Day which falls on 1 May 2026. The full text of the translated message is as follows: -

Esteemed workers,

International Workers’ Day is a historic and significant occasion that honours the value of labour of workers around the world, including those in Myanmar; a day on which fair and appropriate working hours are recognized; and a milestone in the history of the global labour movement. On this auspicious day, I extend my warm and respectful greetings, wishing all workers across the nation fulfilment of blessings and prosperity, and good health and physical and mental well-being.

International Workers’ Day has been commemorated worldwide yearly since 1 May 1890. Myanmar has also held annual ceremonies to recognize and honour the contributions of both blue and white collar workers, and this year marks the 88th such observance.

The development of a country depends on increased productivity and improved service quality. Therefore, the government would first like to respectfully express its recognition and honour for the workforce, which plays a key role in creating high-quality products.

Esteemed workers,

Myanmar became a member of the International Labour Organization (ILO) on 18 May 1948. From then on, Myanmar has been protecting and uplifting the rights of workers while following the basic principles and provisions of the ILO.

Myanmar has been implementing work plans in line with existing laws to meet international employer and employee standards. In order to support efforts to eliminate forced labour, an ILO liaison officer has been accepted and appointed since 2002.

In Myanmar, cooperation is being carried out with the ILO liaison officer based in the country, and the necessary information and support are being provided to the ILO liaison office. Complaints related to forced labour are being resolved in collaboration with the ILO through a national-level complaints mechanism. In addition, employer and employee organizations are being allowed to be freely formed in accordance with ILO Convention 87, from basic-level groups to township, region/state federations, and up to national-level organizations.

Esteemed workers,

Myanmar is among the countries with a large working-age population, and this abundance of employable people constitutes a strong human resource base that is essential for national development and economic growth.

In order to develop human resources, skills training courses are being conducted at seven skills training schools under the Ministry of Labour, 22 accredited workplace-based training centres that have been granted official registration certificates, and 26 training schools recognized by the National Skills Standards Authority (NSSA) of Myanmar.

Young people who complete skills training courses will advance from the level of unskilled labourers to become high-value skilled workers capable of taking practical leadership roles in the workplace, thereby improving their standard of living.

The National Skills Standards Authority (NSSA) issues competency certificates in accord with the standards to skilled workers. These certificates serve as recognized credentials that support their ability to work both domestically and abroad, and to receive wages commensurate with their skills and qualifications.

Efforts are being made to promote and enhance education in order to nurture a strong human resource base equipped with knowledge and skills. Upon completing at least the KG+9 level in the education system, vocational training is also provided to enable individuals to become skilled in agriculture, livestock breeding, and industrial fields.

The Government is making efforts to effectively deploy the country’s natural resources and to enhance agricultural and livestock products through the integration of modern technologies, transforming them into value-added products. It is also promoting domestic micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). In addition, measures are being implemented to increase workers’ incomes, create employment opportunities, provide skills training programmes to produce skilled workers, attract investments to expand labour-intensive production industries, and support access to overseas employment opportunities. The government is also working to ensure workers receive social security and other benefits, improve occupational safety and health standards, and fairly resolve labour disputes. These efforts are being carried out continuously with the interests of workers in focus.

The rural people, amounting to some 70 per cent of the total population of Myanmar, are engaging in agriculture and livestock activities. Hence, it is necessary to strive for the development of MSME businesses so as to improve the socioeconomic lives of the people, boost the State economy and manage substitution for imported goods through the development of the industrial sector based on agriculture and livestock farming activities.

Esteemed workers,

The Government is conducting domestic skills competitions with the aim of developing the skills of the workforce, promoting widespread knowledge of technical and vocational competencies, and ensuring that occupational skill standards can keep pace with international benchmarks. Outstanding young participants who win awards in these competitions are also being prepared and supported to participate in the ASEAN Skills Competition, which is held once every two years.

The Government will implement basic vocational training programmes for those who have faithfully completed their public military service duties, as well as for individuals who are out of school at the primary, middle, and high school levels. It will also provide opportunities for those who have entered the workforce with incomplete education to continue their studies and return to the formal education pathway. In this regard, arrangements will be made to enable a transition from workplace skills development back into the education system.

Myanmar migrant workers who go abroad for employment are required to live under the laws of the countries where they work, and it is known that some workers face unfair treatment and oppression. Rather than going abroad for work, there are already opportunities for prosperity and development by working within the country, where there is greater security in life. Therefore, instead of seeking employment overseas, I would like to urge that people work within the country so that all citizens can live peacefully and happily under the protection of the State, and relevant ministries and organizations are encouraged to facilitate this.

To ensure safe migration and mobility, Complaint Mechanism Centres have been established in Nay Pyi Taw and Yangon to receive and address the difficulties faced by Myanmar workers employed both domestically and abroad in labour-related matters. In addition, complaints are also received and handled through relevant embassies, agencies, Migrant Workers Resource Centres, media outlets, and social organizations. Labour attachés have been appointed in countries where a large number of Myanmar workers are employed, including the Republic of Korea, Japan, Thailand, and Malaysia, and efforts are made to resolve their difficulties in coordination with the respective host countries.

Workers, who are the country’s main productive force, are able to enjoy greater social security and healthcare services. By increasing public trust in the social security system, productivity can be improved, which in turn significantly contributes to the national economy. With this objective, workers’ hospitals, social security clinics, departmental clinics, traditional medicine clinics, mobile medical units, as well as contracted clinics have been established to provide healthcare services to insured workers.

Inspections and enforcement are being carried out in accordance with labour laws to ensure that workers are able to work in safe and healthy workplaces, and that they receive fair wages based on their skills and efforts, as well as equal rights in the workplace.

In addition, efforts to eliminate child labour have been carried out through fiveyear plans since 2019, with the industrial manufacturing sector and the trade and commerce sector designated as priority areas for implementation. School dropouts who enter the workforce prematurely reduce the number of knowledgeable and skilled professionals needed for the country’s future. Therefore, it is urged that everyone cooperate and participate in efforts to eliminate child labour.

In conclusion, the role of the workforce remains highly significant in efforts for the development of an industry based on agriculture and livestock to the improvement of the socioeconomic lives of all citizens, including workers, and to enabling people to live in peace and well-being while meeting the basic needs of the public. For this purpose, the Government, employers, and workers are cooperating through a tripartite approach to develop a skilled labour force and to create more employment opportunities. In honour of International Workers’ Day, I send this message, urging that workers contribute actively to the development of the nation and work hand in hand with the Government with energy and dedication.

Agga Maha Thray Sithu Agga Maha Thiri Thudhamma U Min Aung Hlaing

President of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

#TheGlobalNewLightOfMyanmar

1 May 2021

Esteemed workers,

I extend this message of greetings on the occasion of Workers’ Day. May the entire workers in Myanmar, all the workers worldwide, including Myanmar migrant workers, and the people enjoy fruitful results of their good deeds and their socio-economic lives.

All global countries celebrate Workers’ Day that falls on 1 May every year. Likewise, I send this message in honour of all the Myanmar workers who are the main force essential for developing the State economy in Myanmar.

In the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Myanmar encountered losses in socio-economic lives in all sectors affected by COVID-19. Amidst difficulties, crises and challenges, the government, on this opportune occasion, would like to explain the endeavours to serve the interests of its citizen workers and create the appropriate job opportunities.

Esteemed workers,

Emphasizing the role of workers steadfastly, the government disbursed loans to businesspersons, who suspended their businesses for various reasons during the outbreak of COVID-19, in order to sustain their factories and industries and ensure the employment of the jobless workers.

The Social Security Board accepted registration of 36,670 insured workplaces and 1,248,354 insured employees and allotted K69,109.58 million for 1,410,194 cases of entitlement from the 2014-2015 financial year up to the end of February 2021. Moreover, the amount of K67,912.467 million, 40 per cent of entitlement as social security assistance, was disbursed to 1,583,533 insured workers from temporarily closed factories during the COVID-19 period when the combined teams inspected factories whether they conformed with health guidelines of the Ministry of Health and Sports.

The Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population provides 40 per cent of the salaries as social security cash assistance to the workers from the factories, which were damaged by fire. Jobless workers from those factories are also appropriately re-employed.

The government holds negotiation with the Republic of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, relevant businesspersons and organizations in order to seek solutions for the resumption and continuous operation of factories and industries, including the labour-intensive garment industry.

Labour offices are being run across the nation for the people to grasp job opportunities. The government assigns mobile teams to go right down to the areas where the labour offices cannot be opened yet for seeking employment, cooperates with local employment agencies and holds the job fairs where employers and job seekers can negotiate for the job processes through one-stop service to cut time and money.

Esteemed workers,

The government has managed to soonest repatriate Myanmar workers and Myanmar citizens back home. They are stranded in foreign countries for a long time in various difficulties due to the suspension of international flights during the COVID-19 period.

In so doing, a total of 1,086 Myanmar citizens being detained under punishments at detention centres in Malaysia for lack of identity, based on various reasons. And, 70 Myanmar citizens arriving in India were brought back home by the naval vessel of the Tatmadaw.

Similarly, a total of 12,416 Myanmar citizens missing chances to return home by facing difficulties were sent back home by relief flight, while 26,681 Myanmar citizens re-entered Myanmar through border crossings. The government gave a helping hand to those citizens to receive test and prevention of COVID-19 and return to their respective native areas on a smooth process. In addition, arrangements were made to secure employment for them in Myanmar and attend the skill courses for their respective professions.

The government drafted the forced labour elimination action plan (2019-2021) and established the national complaint machinery for forced labour to resolve the complaints.

As Myanmar labours were sent to foreign countries under the 1999 Overseas Employment Law via overseas employment licensed agencies, a total of 1,322,386 Myanmar labour have been sent from 1990 to February 2021. Labour attachés were assigned in the Republic of Korea, Thailand and Malaysia for helping Myanmar labour enjoy entitlements under the laws of respective countries, whereas Myanmar embassies in international countries give necessary protection for those Myanmar labours.

Meetings to raise awareness of labour affairs were held between employers and employer organizations as well as workers and labour organizations in the Union territory, regions and states with the aim of enabling the employers and employees to have knowledge about proper exercises of fair workplace relations system, leadership, supervisions, labour law and policies.

Tripartite cooperation among the government, employers, and employees focuses on labour affairs with the formation of 3,102 employer and employee organizations under the Labour Organization Law2011 according to the ILO Convention 87 for freedom of association and protection of the right to organize Myanmar ratified.

Esteemed workers,

The State Administration Council is implementing the five-point roadmap and nine political, economic and social objectives after taking over the State’s power according to the Constitution (2008). COVID-19 pandemic affected businesses included in the five-point roadmap of the State Administration Council must be remedied in various ways as quickly as possible through cooperation and endeavours of the government, the strength of the labour forces, and all intellectual and intelligentsia people.

Moreover, it can vividly be seen that stabilizing the market economic system and creating the job opportunities to manufacture many products of the State in line with the objectives of the economic affairs are much expanded on the implementation of capable labour forces.

The government is striving for ensuring fair rights and protection without harming the interests of both employers and employees. As the competitiveness of the labour market will rise in accord with the free migration of skilled workers included in the roadmap of the ASEAN Economic Community being implemented in the ASEAN region, Myanmar labour need to compete with those at home and employees in the ASEAN region. As such, they have to make preparations to have skills in respective sectors if investments of foreign countries flow into Myanmar.

As now is an opportune time to make utmost efforts for the country’s development, all need to abide by the laws, rules and disciplines. That is why the tripartite endeavours of the government, the employers and the employees can soonest strengthen the State economy for the long term development of the State. Consequently, the production volume will increase while health, education and social sectors will meet improvement simultaneously. As such, employers and employees should understandably join hands with each other to strive for the emergence of a stable and peaceful environment.

That is why I’d like to sincerely urge the workers, which is the force playing a pivotal role in the economic development of the State, to fully cooperate with the government in its steadfast implementation so as to improve the socio-economic lives of the people and emerge a stable and peaceful environment.

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The State Administration Council organized the 3rd coordination meeting at its office in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning. Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the chairman of the Council, held talks at the meeting. Present at the meeting together with the Senior General were Vice-Chairman of the Council Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Commander-in-Chief (Army), Vice-Senior General Soe Win, members of the Council General Mya Tun Oo, Admiral Tin Aung San, General Maung Maung Kyaw, Lieutenant-General Moe Myint Tun, Mahn Nyein Maung, U Thein Nyunt, U Khin Maung Swe, Daw Aye Nu Sein, Jeng Phang Naw Taung, U Moung Har, U Sai Lone Saing and Saw Deniel, Secretary Lieutenant-General Aung Lin Dway, Joint Secretary Lieutenant-General Ye Win Oo and Union Minister for Home Affairs Lieutenant-General Soe Htut. At the meeting, the Senior General said the Council had assumed the duty for about three weeks. During the period, many reforms have been undertaken. For the first point related to the State peace and stability, although protests were staged during the period between the second and third weeks, the Council took measures under control as much as it can. The action was taken similar to that of democratic countries in accord with the practices of democracy. Other countries carried out the use of tear gas bombs, rubber bullets and water cannons to crack down the crowds of riots and interruption of the internet. In comparing the number of dead and injured persons in other countries’ demonstrations, there were four deceased persons within three weeks in Myanmar. In reviewing the deaths, the dead woman was about 20 years old. It was found that she herself participated in the riots. It was found that riotous protesters used catapults, stones and nuts in attacks. In the event, police members used rubber bullets, not lead balls. The documentary video clip has been checked in detail. It was a reality. Effective action will be taken against those who initially propagated CDM to the service personnel. Some service personnel participated in the CDM, some of whom joined it with fear. With regard to the CDM measure, service personnel were urged to re-discharge their duties last week. State service personnel are associates of ours. Service personnel can vote for those they like, but they must focus on serving the State only during duty hours. The civil service personnel will have things they like or unlike. It is acceptable for democracy practice. However, civil service personnel need to serve the people. State service personnel need to perform State duty. Likewise, citizens must serve the State. The current event was based on voting frauds. Although the Tatmadaw cooperated with the past government in its term in a patient manner, the government did not conform to the current situation. So, the problems happened. Data was collected for the absence of State service personnel last Friday. Medical doctors are absent from hospitals and clinics. Medical doctors are service personnel to provide health care service to the people. There are three crucial service personnel in the country. They are health staff, police force and the Tatmadaw, and they always have to prepare to be ready. The Tatmadaw alerts regiments and units in regions and states to be readiness for defending the State. Police members also are discharging duty in unity at respective units and police stations. Likewise, health staff discharge duty in unity at respective hospitals and clinics to provide health care services to the people. One of the nine points of oaths of medical doctors mentions: “I shall respectfully and valuably protect the lives and souls of humans with medical knowledge we learnt.” Medical doctors break their oaths if they do not perform medical treatment. Likewise, the oaths of nurses say, “Physical and mental health of all human beings will be assumed as our measures,” and “I shall prevent any acts which can harm danger of lives and health of human beings.” In reviewing these points, acts of health staff can be assumed as breaking their ethics. Although there are 1,262 hospitals across the nation, the data received on the previous day mentioned that 778 hospitals are opened to provide medical treatment; 27 hospitals do not offer treatment, and 357 hospitals are totally closed. Just consideration will know how many people are getting into trouble. There is no such important thing as human lives. So, measures are being taken with the least restraint not to harm public lives in handling riots. Disciplinary actions will be taken against medical doctors and nurses for violating civil service rules and disciplines. Health workers have already taken their oaths. Likewise, police and military personnel are public servants who have taken their oaths by holding a State flag. They must, therefore, not be disloyal. In the Tatmadaw also, discipline violations will face strict action. It follows suit in the police force as well. Police members need to try to become ones the public trust and the State relies on. Disciplinary action will be taken against service personnel if they fail to report and go to work. Coordinated plans are underway to present cash awards to the doctors depending on the degrees they obtained. In the education sector, teaching quality must be raised. Teachers are crucial for the country. They produce human resources. As their role is essential, measures will be taken for their capacity building. In the education sector also, cash awards should be presented based on their degrees. In the country’s human resources, the two important points are understanding laws and conducting courses on BA (Law) at universities. Discussion is underway to open courses on BA (Eco) for business knowledge in respective regions. Efforts must be made to create a good education atmosphere. Only then will students be motivated to learn. Education and healthcare promotion plans must be carried out. When it comes to CDM, there are instigators online and supporters behind them. There are also sponsors providing money. The Council will continue what is necessary to do in accord with the law. Protests cause a great impact on the country. In order to avoid losses to the country, it is necessary to explain with patience to the protesters so they can understand, reach the right track and cooperate with the people. The country sees budget and trade deficits every year. That affects the country’s currency value, so a substantial currency value is required. The economy must be raised through trade. Five objectives have been laid down. The Council needs to put its energy into reviving the country’s ailing economy. Economic remedy measures must be taken. It is necessary to reduce import and boost export to cut the trade deficit. Agriculture and livestock breeding play a key role in manufacturing local products. Meanwhile, the spending of State funds must be reduced as much as possible. It is also necessary to improve electricity generation, transport and communications as well as education and healthcare services necessary for the development of human resources. Renewable energy sources such as hydropower and solar power must be extensively tapped for reducing electricity charges and increased generating of electricity. Regular maintenance of railroads and motor roads is necessary for good transport. Ways must be sought to supply drinking water to the townships with scarce water. Efforts must be made without fail to improve the socio-economy of ethnic nationalities. Next, Council Vice-Chairman Vice-Senior General Soe Win and members U Thein Nyunt, Mahn Nyein Maung, Jeng Phang Naw Taung, Daw Aye Nu Sein, U Moung Har and U Khin Maung Swe reported on progress in mine clearance in Kachin and Rakhine states and continuation of mine clearance, opinions from the international community over the temporary assumption of State duties by the Council, the situation in Rakhine State, the confusing political situation caused by a personality cult, electricity bill reduction for religious buildings, incitement to CDM by encouraging civil servants to participate, the imposition of those organizations which are behind the instigation and taking of action against them and the need for protection of the service personnel who are shouldering their duties. The Senior General said the voter lists related to the commission would be publicized as quickly as possible. The commission is initially inspecting the townships that received the most complaints. The findings over the inaccuracies of the voter lists are being announced. The inspection will continue for the remaining townships. The ministry concerned needs to try to issue identity to citizens. Concerning the media, measures must be taken to regulate the press in accordance with press ethics through the Myanmar Press Council. Warnings have been issued against the use of military government that staged a coup in news reports, and action will be taken against violators who continue to use such usage in their writings by revoking publishing licences. Investigations will be conducted into the work of Kofi Annan report, and action will be taken on work done in the self-interest of an individual without taking national interests into consideration. Electricity bills have been reduced and exempted. Cash rewards are being offered to government employees, members of the police and Tatmadaw members depending on their performance. Teachers are required to prepare to make ready for the reopening of schools with maintenance when students return to schools by holding meetings that contribute to teaching and undergoing pieces of training. As Myanmar is an agriculture and livestock breeding country, it is necessary to nurture technicians in agriculture and livestock breeding by opening new training schools, colleges and universities for agriculture and livestock breeding. Effective research must be conducted to manufacture products that are suitable for the respective regions. It is necessary to implement hydropower projects, and measures will be taken to supply electricity to respective states. As electricity is essential for social development, hydropower projects that will not harm the environment must be implemented. As water is the most vital need in daily lives, measures must be taken to prevent excessive tapping of underground water in regions that receive little rain as it can worsen the shortages of water. Requests have been made to resume banking operations, and security measures will be taken as much as possible. As healthcare services of the public are important, measures must be taken to enable healthcare workers to return to their work, and action must be taken against those who put pressures on them in accordance with the law. MNA/GNLM #The Global New Light of Myanmar

16 February 2021

THE Union Election Commission scrutinized the voter lists in 8 townships of Nay Pyi Taw Union Territory in relation to the multiparty democracy general elections which took place on 8 November 2020. According to the findings, the number of voters released by the previous UEC was 906,226, while the figure of Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population up to November 2020 confirmed 703,546 eligible voters with 18-year-old and above. The voter lists of 108,333 include citizens, associate citizens, naturalized citizens and those without any scrutiny cards, while the same national scrutiny card number of 6,900 voters was found three times and above in the voter lists and 76,222 voters two times. The findings from the respective townships are as follows:

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The Ministry of Health and Sports received K300 million for COVID-19 prevention and control activities from Aung family lived in Pyay Avenue (2), Mayangon Township, yesterday morning in Nay Pyi Taw.

At the donation ceremony, Union Minister Dr Thet Khine Win said the first wave and the second wave of COVID-19 were overcome as well as the COVID-19 control measures were optimized with the participation of the people, volunteers, the staff from the Ministry of Health and Sports and donations from the generous donors.

He added the measures to prevent the coming waves by the Central Epidemiology Unit, the importance of the COVID-19 vaccination, the Standard Operation Procedure for relevant sectors to generate the socio-economic activities, keeping cash assistance at the relevant banks and money usage with the permission of the Central Committee without any waste.

After receiving the cash assistance, the Union Minister returned the certificate of honour and expressed words of thanks.

MNA

PHOTO: MNA

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Vice-Chairman of State Administration Council and Deputy Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Vice-Senior General Soe Win took part in the celebrations of 74th anniversary of Union Day in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday.

The Union Day message from the Chairman of State Administration Council and Commander-in-Chief of Defence Services Senior General Min Aung Hlaing was read by Vice-Senior General Soe Win at the flag-hoisting and saluting ceremonies held in front of Nay Pyi Taw City Hall.

The 74th Union Day was organized this year with the objectives: To work on the Union Peace Conference – 21st Century Panglong, till the success of the internal peace process is achieved; Development of the socio-economic life of the ethnic nationals; To work for the emergence of a constitution that is in alignment and harmony with the Democratic Federal Union; All ethnic nationals to work for the preservation and protection of non-disintegration of the Union, non-disintegration of national unity, and perpetuation of national sovereignty; To nurture and develop new generations endowed with high skills and capabilities imbued with strong Union spirit.

The flag-hoisting and saluting ceremonies took place at 5:30 am in the presence of ethnic national people, civil service personnel, members of civil society organizations and invited guests, together with the ceremonial Honour Guard Troop.

The ceremonies were also attended by Union Ministers, Union Attorney-General, Auditor-General of the Union, Nay Pyi Taw Council Chairman, senior Tatmadaw officers, judges of Supreme Court of the Union, Commander of Nay Pyi Taw Command, deputy ministers, members of Union Civil Service Board, members of Myanmar National Human Rights Commission, members of Anti-Corruption Commission, Nay Pyi Taw Council members, departmental heads, ministerial staff, ethnic cultural troupes, and representatives of ethnic groups.

MNA

PHOTO: MNA

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The 37th Session of Work Group on the Universal Periodic Review discussed Myanmar’s third-cycle national report on human rights yesterday.

The review session took place at the building of United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, yesterday. The Myanmar delegation led by Union Attorney-General U Tun Tun Oo joined it via videoconferencing from Nay Pyi Taw, and U Myint Thu, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, Permanent Representative of Myanmar to UNOG and party took part the event from Geneva.

In making discussions, the Union Attorney-General discussed the focus of Myanmar on human rights issue in establishing a Democracy Federal Union, fundamental needs of peace, socio-economic development, the rule of law and human rights in working for the genuine democratic system, signing the Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement with the ethnic armed organizations to end the 70-year internal armed conflicts of the country, the successful holding of the 4th session of the Union Peace Conference—21st Century Panglong, amendment, cancellation and enactment of 185 laws in the five-year term, carrying out the Myanmar Sustainable Development Plan, the COVID-19 Economic Relief Plan of Myanmar aimed not to leave anyone behind across the country, adopting judiciary sector reform strategy and the leading role of the Union Auditor-General Office and the Court Martial in conducting investigation and taking legal actions against the crimes in accordance with the Independent Commission of Enquiry report.

He also said that the Office of President issued a directive in relation to preventing the instigation of acts of hate speech and violence, progress in developing a law to prevent hate speech, holding of General Election in November 2020. He also expressed thanks to the partner countries and organizations which are supporting Myanmar in its democratic transition processes. The 107 UN member countries discussed and made suggestions on the third-cycle report of Myanmar.

In response to the discussions, Myanmar representatives talked about the government’s good democratic practices, good governance, responsibility and accountability, accelerating reform processes in management, economy and social sectors for the emergence of a Democratic Federal Union, efforts on anti-corruption and the rule of law, creating of a new political culture to be able to solve conflicts through negotiations by adopting peace plans for the post-2020, implementation of recommendations in the report of Advisory Commission on Rakhine State, closure of IDP camps, emphasis on education and health sector and repatriation programmes of displaced persons in line with bilateral agreements with Bangladesh.

Director-General Daw Marlar Than Htaik from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs discussed providing humanitarian assistance in collaboration with the United Nations, preparations for participating in international human rights agreements; Deputy Director-General Dr Thida Tin from the Ministry of Information held talks about works for enactment of a law in relation to prevention of hate speech and media freedom; Deputy-Director General Dr Aung Moe Chal from the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Economic Relations about the responsible business that covers economy, human rights and environmental conservation; Director-General U Ko Lay Win from the Ministry of Education about education, health and freedom of belief, Brig-Gen Aung Htay Myint from the Ministry of Home Affairs about anti-terrorism efforts, anti-trafficking in persons, prisoner issue; Director-General Dr San San Aye from the Ministry of Social Welfare, Relief and Resettlement about closure of IDPs, gender equality, women rights, child rights and the rights of persons with disabilities; Permanent Secretary from the Office of Union-Attorney General Dr Thida Oo, reviewing processes of the existing laws, reforms in judiciary sector, anti-corruption, the rule of law, legal protection for human right activists, freedom of speech, rights for peaceful gathering and protests, land dispute issue; Director-General from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration and Population U Nyunt Win about labour rights, prevention of forced labour and social security fund and citizenship issues.

After reviewing the report, U Tun Tun Oo, the Head of Myanmar delegation, expressed his appreciation to the countries that gave constructive recommendations on the report of Myanmar which is focusing on diversity and peaceful co-existence in implementing human rights in the country with diverse national races. He also said that Myanmar would continue cooperation with international organizations and civil society organizations in creating a good environment with social harmony among the people. The Union Attorney-General said that the processes of UPR would be helpful for Myanmar in addressing human right issues.

The initial document of UPR work group in relation to Myanmar’s report will be approved on 29 January 2021 and the implementation of recommendations and the progress of human rights situations will be assessed on the 4th cycle report in 2025.

MNA

(Translated by Aung Khin)

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Union Minister for Labour, Immigration and Population U Thein Swe received Resident Representative of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees Ms Hai Kyung Jun and Deputy Resident Representative Ms Yukiko Iriyama at the ministry in Nay Pyi Taw yesterday morning.

During the meeting, the Union Minister discussed the formation of committees on stability and development of the Rakhine State. He told the UNHCR officials that more budget was allocated for the Rakhine State than other regions/states. He added that the government has made efforts to improve infrastructures such as road connectivity, and provided better education and healthcare.

He told the UNHCR officials that Myanmar and Bangladesh are coordinating the repatriation and resettlement of the displaced persons in line with the MoU between the ministry and the UNDP/UNHCR.

The UNHCR delegation recently visited Hpa-an in the Kayin State and Sittway, Buthidaung and Maungtaw areas in the Rakhine State. The delegation met with local elders and teachers during their visit to Rakhine State, according to Ms Hai Kyung Jun.

Meanwhile, the UNDP and the UNHCR are carrying out Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).

The Union Minister said that the main requirement for regional development is security, and if the region is safe and stable, development works can be carried out efficiently.

The Union Minister stressed that the ministry is working hard in order for displaced persons to be able to go back to their places safely and with dignity. The Ministry is trying to strengthen security, education and healthcare for the displaced persons in line with the MoU.

He said that the government is making efforts for a balanced development plan for the entire country and focuses on stability and development in the Rakhine State. He said that if the government and international organizations, including the UN, can collaborate effectively, the residents will gain great benefits.

MNA

(Translated by Maung Maung Swe)

Photo: MNA

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