Myanmar Digest

Saturday, 14 January, 2006

All the national people are to play a role for success of National Convention
that is the most important task for the nation
Mass meeting held in Monywa, Sagaing Division to support National Convention

YANGON, 13 Jan — Sagaing Division Union Solidarity and Development Association organized the mass meeting in support of the National Convention at Sagaing Division Sports Grounds in Monywa on 11 January morning.

Present at the meeting were Secretary of Sagaing Division USDA Dr Win Myint Aung and executives, secretaries and executives of Sagaing, Monywa and Shwebo District USDAs, members of Women’s Affairs Organization, Maternal and Child Welfare Association, War Veterans Organization, Writers and Journalists Association, Red Cross and Auxiliary Fire Brigades, faculty members and students of Monywa Universities, Monywa Institute of Economics, Institute of Education (Sagaing), University for Development of National Races, Monywa Government Computer College, Monywa Government Technological College, Sagaing Education College, Monywa Education College and Sagaing Cooperative College, members of Myanmar Thabin Asiayon and Myanmar Music Asiayon, departmental officials, social organizations, students, teachers and local people from 24 wards in Monywa, totalling over 25,000.

Townselder U Win Myint of Monywa Township presided over the mass meeting together with members of the panel of chairmen Dr Kyaw Win Naung, Captain Myo Chit (Retd) of WVO, industrialist U Nyein Aung, U Tin Win, townselder U Shwe Win of Monywa Township and entrepreneur U Tin Aung of Monywa Township.

Monywa Township USDA member Daw May Thu Hein and Monywa Township USDA executive Daw Kyu Moe Than acted as MCs.

In his speech, meeting chairman U Win Myint said that the Government carried out tasks for convening the National Convention to draw an enduring Constitution that is essential in shaping the future nation. Representatives-elect from political parties and independent representative-elect attended the first coordination meeting to hold the National Convention. The coordination meetings were held on 30 June and 10 July in 1992. And, the meeting discussed inviting delegates and the number. On 2 October 1992, the National Convention Convening Commission, the NCC Work Committee and the NCC Management Committee were set up.

The National Convention commenced at the meeting hall in the compound of President’s House on Ahlon Road on 9 January 1993.

All the participants of the National Convention held discussions from 7 June to 16 September 1993. With the agreement of all, 15 chapter headings and 104 basic principles were adopted. On 30 August 2003, the seven-point Road Map was declared. In line with the first step of the Road Map, the National Convention resumed on 17 May 2004.

The drafting of a new constitution is in progress to shape a new state in accordance with the objective conditions. Due to that weak points, the Union faced the danger of collapse. Hence, it is necessary to formulate an enduring Constitution for long-term existence.

Despite facing many hindrances for the emergence of the Constitution, the Government reconvened the National Convention on 5 December 2005. Progress of the National Convention, in which 1,088 delegates from eight delegate groups are taking part in discussions, can be witnessed through newspapers, TV and radio.

Head of State Senior General Than Shwe gave guidance that the nation must have a enduring Constitution that can serve the interest of the entire national people, practising any system.

In accord with wishes of the national people, it is necessary to frame the Constitution that is lifeblood of the nation. Only when the NC delegates have Union Spirit, farsightedness, patience and unity for the nation, will the National Convention achieve success to lay down basic principles and detailed basic principles for drafting the enduring State Constitution. Therefore, all the national people are to play a role for the success of the National Convention that is the most important task for the nation.

In conclusion, the meeting chairman urged all the participants to harmoniously participate in the respective sectors for drafting the Constitution with Union Spirit.

U Aung Zaw Oo, Secretary of Salingyi Township USDA in Monywa District, Sagaing Division tabled a motion in support of the National Convention.

He said the State has made progress in building its political, economic and social infrastructures. With these infrastructures, the government is striving to build a discipline-flourishing democratic nation in accord with the wishes of the people after unveiling the seven-point political Road Map.

It cannot be denied that the State is on its way to development as the government, the Tatmadaw and the people are working side by side to develop the country in all aspects in order to catch up with other nations.

Measures are also being taken for realization of the 12 political, economic and social objectives without assistance. The ongoing National Convention in laying down detailed basic principles has attached importance to ensuring Our Three Main National Causes, avoiding bitter experiences of the past and keeping sight of prevailing conditions of the State.

Today’s National Convention is patiently discussing matters to reach the goal of the State. According to the saying which goes by as the strength of the nation lies within, it is necessary for the people to continue their efforts no matter what disturbances internal and external destructive elements cause. He said the National Convention has been in session for the third time since 5 December 2005 to draw an enduring constitution. All the national people are in full support of the National Convention that is shaping a constitution, the lifeblood of the State and a national task. So, the people are urged to play their part in building a modern and developed democratic nation.

In seconding the motion in support of the NC, Daw Nu Nu Win of Sagaing Division Women’s Affairs Organization said now is the time the State is trying to shape a peaceful, modern and developed democratic nation with discipline flourishing after the seven-point Road Map has been adopted. Some big western nations and their lackeys are resorting to various ways to persuade the UN Security Council to take action against Myanmar.

Myanmar may get assistance and accusations would disappear if she directly copies western democracy and acts as their puppet. However, it is out of the question to do this as Myanmar way of life is totally different from theirs’.

Despite hinde-rances and disturbances caused by internal and external elements, the entire mass of the people will continue their efforts for the emergence of modern and discipline flourishing democratic nation and support the National Convention.

Next, Sagaing Division WVO Maj Thaung Aye (Retd) seconded the motion.

Major Thaung Aye (Retd) of Sagaing Division WVO seconded the motion in support of the National Convention saying that Tatmadaw had come forward in time of emergency and joined hands with the people in striving for regaining independence. It is known to all that Tatmadaw, which is always loyal to the State had always been in the forefront in the incidents of 1962 and 1988.

Our country is home to various national races who have lived in the same land and partaken water from the same sourrce since time immemorial. Being a Union country, we would not accept any scheme to cause disintegration to cause the Union.

Upholding Our Three Main National Causes, the Government is heading for a democratic State. In doing so, the State’s seven-point Road Map was set and its first phase, the National Convention is being convened. In all the world nations, no country is without a Tatmadaw. An armed force plays an important role in defending a nation. As the motto goes ‘ Only when the Tatmadaw is strong will the nation be strong’, we should strive for making the Tatmadaw to be a strong one.

Now, the State, the people and the Tatmadaw are trying to realize the seven-point Road Map to enable the nation to become a democratic one. Over 1,000 delegates are holding discussions at the National Convention to lay down basic principles for the emergence of the new constitution while holding the interests of the State and the people in esteem.

Therefore, he strongly endorsed the National Convention.

Daw Pauk Pauk of Ayadaw Township MCWA discussed that the Government is implementing national education promotion programmes to develop human recourses, building a peaceful modern developed democratic nation. To keep pace with changing technologies, a constant learning education system is being realized. In addition, the infrastructures on education are being built.

Nowadays, science and technology plays a key role in all aspects of developments. Some big nations are trying to interfere in the affairs of developing nations. So, our people should be full of vision and knowledge.

Educational network can contribute a lot towards formal and non-formal education. In health sector of the nation, the common diseases are being prevented.

The better foundations in education, health and economic sectors have been established. We need to maintain the progress. The NC is well under way.

So, he wholeheartedly seconded the motion in support of the NC.

Tutor of Myanmar Department U Kyaw Moe Win of Monywa University also seconded the motion.

The three fun-demental facts: peace, stability and prevelence of law and order, strong economy of citizens and maturity of people with wisdom after human resource development, are needed for building the modern and developed nation. Similarly, The strong basic foundations in polotical, economic, social and defence powers are essential for emergence of peaceful, modern, developed and discipline-flourishing democratic nation.

The government has laid down and is implementing Road Map to build the democratic nation while striving for economic development. The first phase of the Seven-Point Road Map, the National Convention is in progress.

After 1988, the 2,595 bridges under 180 feet and 14 bridges over 180 feet could be constructed in Sagaing Division. Ayeyawady Bridge (Yadanabon) which will bring the honour to the nation is being built in the division and the 60 per cent has completed now. In conclusion, he opposed the destructive elements hindering the National Convention. In Myanmar, Not only there is the food sufficiency for people but also rice, meat and beans and pulses are being exported. As a result of making efforts for development of the nation without taking any outside assistance, the interferences of any country cannot be accepted. The emergence of the enduring Constitution is so important for the perpetuation of sovereignity and the National Convention plays an important role in adopting the basic principles and the detailed basic principles to be included in the Constitution. He urged the entire people to participate in the drive for the success of the National Convention with might and main and seconded the motion in support of the National Convention.

Afterwards, District Law Officer U Maung Maung Lin of Monywa seconded the motion.

All the citizens are to uphold Our Three Main Natioanl Causes for the non-disintegration of the Union and reaching the national goal to build peaceful, modern, displine-flourishing democratic country. It is absolutely true and appropriate that the citizens are themselves drafting the Constitution for their nation in accord with their own customs, culture and history.

In accordance with the Seven-Point Road Map, the government has reconvenued the Constitution that was adjourned temporily. The National Convention can gurantee the Constitution which is also the lifeblood of all citizens and can serve the interests of the entire people. Upholding Our Three Main Natioanl Causes, all need to cooperate for the emergence of the democratic nation in the future, and he supported the National Convention.

Next, Peasant U Kyaw Win of Monywa District, Sagaing Division seconded the motion in support of the National Convention. Nowadays, the government is making efforts to develop the nation in all sectors including border areas and rural regions and at the same time striving for the development of agriculture as the base and all-round development of other sectors of the economy as well. The 318 dams could be built for providing the irrigation water. There remain 23 dams under construction and the 293 river pumping projects could be implemented.

Sagaing Division has extended from 2.7 million acres of farmland in 1988 to 4.1 million acres. Monsoon paddy cultivation acreage is now over 1.6 million, up from 1.2 million. Rice sufficiency of division has jumped to 199 per cent. With the spending of huge amount of funds by the State dams and river water pumping projects help the division to enjoy surplus of 15 million baskets of paddy. The division is regarded as a granary of the upper Myanmar. In addition, 0.5 million acres of beans and pulses and 0.1 million acres of cotton could be extended.

Now, there are 1416 river-water pumping projects benefiting over 1.1 million acres of land compared with only 124 in 1988. In Sagaing Division, per capita income had increased from K 4,000 in 1988 to 200,000 in 2005. Nowadays, the age of petrol chemicals is over and oil reserve will last next 40 years. So, world’s nations are trying to reduce the oil consumption. In Myanmar, farm machinery and vehicles have been put into test-run with the use of bio-diesel obtained from physic nut. Use of physic nut (Jatropha curcas) is cost-effective with a little carbon emission. It is found growing in many parts of the nation.

With the economic development in the State, all the people have enjoyed food sufficiency and surpluses are being exported. In the past, the country lagged behind in development in political, economic and social condition as it was under divide-and-rule policy. So taking lessons from the past, the people are working hard by upholding Our Three Main National Causes. The ongoing National Convention has put emphasis on safeguarding Our Three Main National Causes and the country’s independence and sovereignty.

That is why all the people are in full support of it. Sovereignty is the lifeblood of the people. To safeguard sovereignty, the emergence of a State constitution is of vital importance. Therefore, the people will have to support the National Convention which is laying down detailed basic principles to draw the constitution.

Next, the meeting chairman sought the approval of those present and they unanimously supported the National Convention. Then the mass meeting ended with the chanting of slogans.

Government has given directives to grow jatropha curcas for production of bio-diesel

YANGON, 13 Jan — The Government is seeking ways to develop businesses of agriculture and livestock breeding for the rural people and providing necessary assistance for them, State Peace and Development Council member Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than said on his inspection tour of progress in Kangyidaunt Township yesterday.

He added that it is necessary to put targeted acres of land under summer paddy in time. In addition, the Government had given directives to grow jatropha curcas for ensuring production of bio-diesel. The bio-diesel can be used in running tractors, water pumps and generators. Hence, officials are to assist agricultural technology to the jatropha curcas growers, he said.

While in Kangyi-daunt Township, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than inspected Hsinthwelat paddy plantations of Myanma Agriculture Service and jatropha curcas plantations of local growers. Furthermore, he heard reports on production of monsoon paddy of the township and cultivation of pepper by officials.

Kangyidaunt Township put 142,857 acres of land under monsoon paddy meeting the target, and over 70,000 acres of summer paddy against the target of 114,200 acres. Efforts are being made for cultivation of jatropha curcas to meet the target within three years.

On arrival at the construction site of Panmawady Bridge (Myinkaseik) on Pathein-Kangon-Myinkaseik-Myaungmya Road, Senior Engineer Daw Si Than and Deputy Chief Engineer U Tin Maung Hla of Public Works reported on matters related to the bridge to Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than.

Panmawady Bridge (Myinkaseik) will be 1,260 feet long and it is of suspension type. The road linking Pathein and Myaungmya through Pathein-Dahka-Einme-Myaungmya Road is 65 miles. On completion of the bridge, Pathein-Kangon-Myinkaseik-Myaungmya Road will be 32 miles. Therefore, the new road will be 33 miles shorter than the old one. At present, construction of the bridge was completed by 80 per cent.

In the afternoon, they arrived at Crops Pest Control Camp of MAS in Pathein, and inspected the jatropha curcas nursery.

At Ayeyawady Division PDC Office, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than met with departmental personnel. Commander Maj-Gen Thura Myint Aung reported on land utilization in the division, production of monsoon and cultivation of summer paddy, growing of 10 main crops and three new item crops, and the plan to grow 500,000 acres of jatropha curcas within three years.

Speaking on the occasion, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than said that Ayeyawady Division is the granary of the nation, and the division is vital for meat and fish sector. In 2005-2006, 3.6 million acres of monsoon paddy could be cultivated, and all are to strive for adding 100,000 acres more to become 3.7 million acres in coming year.

Especially, jatropha curcas plantations are to be placed on 500,000 acres of land within three years. Furthermore, Ayeyawady Division is to try to increase acres of pulses and beans. In conclusion, departmental personnel are to assist local authorities for ensuring peace and stability and prevalence of law and order in the region.

Ayeyawady Division cultivated 3,600,351 acres of monsoon paddy exceeding the target of 3.6 million acres in 2005-06. In addition, efforts are being made for growing summer paddy meeting the target of 1,687,140 acres in 2005-06. Furthermore, work is under way to put 500,000 acres of land under jatropha curcas plantations within three years.

Next, they inspected jatropha curcas plantations at the local battalion.

In the evening, Lt-Gen Khin Maung Than and party paid homage to Shwemokhtaw Pagoda in Pathein.

Jatropha curcas sapling planting ceremony held in Hmawby Township

YANGON, 13 Jan — Chairman of Yangon Division Peace and Development Council Commander of Yangon Command Lt-Gen Myint Swe participated in the jatropha curcas sapling planting ceremony at Yangon Division Vegetable Cultivation and Poultry Farming Special Zone near Nyaunghnapin Village of Hmawby Township on 11 January morning.

The commander oversaw thriving vegetable plantations in the special zone.

Next, the commander met with officials, agriculturists and breeders at the briefing hall of the Zone-3.

Speaking on the occasion, the commander urged officials to provide necessary assistance to jatropha curcas growers. He added that jatropha curcas is to be placed on vacant land and fences of the farm for ensuring production of bio-diesel. Afterwards, the commander and party participated in the jatropha curcas sapling planting ceremony. Likewise, members of the social organizations planted 30,000 jatropha curcas plants and sowed 20,000 seeds.

Pakistani Additional Secretary returns home

YANGON, 13 Jan — Additional Secretary (Asia & Pacific) Mr Akhtar Tufail of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, who was on a goodwill visit to Myanmar at the invitation of Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Thu, called on Minister for Foreign Affairs U Nyan Win at the ministry yesterday noon.

He was accompanied by Pakistani Ambassador to the Union of Myanmar Mr Muham-mad Nawaz Chaudhry and Counsellor Mr Habib-ur-Rehman. Additional Secretary Mr Akhtar Tufail and party met Myanmar delegation led by Deputy Minisater for Foreign Affairs U Kyaw Thu at the ministry this afternoon and made discussions on bilateral affairs.

In the evening, Deputy Minister U Kyaw Thu hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting Pakistani Additional Secretary and party at the Hotel Nikko Royal Lake.

The Additional Secretary also held discussions with Deputy Minister for Science and Technology U Kyaw Soe yesterday.

The Pakistani Additional Secretary of Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who arrived Yangon on 11 January by air, left Yangon for Pakistan by air this morning.

Indonesia, Malaysia flesh out treaty on double taxation

JAKARTA, 12 Jan— Indonesia is slated to sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Malaysia this week to expand the current agreement on the avoidance of double taxation, reports said Wednesday.

The signing will take place during a two-day meeting between Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and his Malaysian counterpart Abdullah Ahmad Badawi in the West Sumatra town of Bukitinggi beginning Thursday, reported The Jakarta Post newspaper.

The measure was needed because the current agreement was no longer sufficient to accommodate the interests of the business community in the two countries, the paper said, quoting senior officials familiar with the issue.

"The revision is to boost business activities between the two countries, and to accommodate our new tax laws," said Minister of Foreign Affairs Wirayuda Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati said the deal would cover double taxation for proceeds derived from dividends, royalties and transfer of funds.

However, it would not cover transactions conducted in the offshore financial centre island of Labuan, she added. The island tax haven is a federal territory of Malaysia, which is strategically located close to Brunei Darussalam in the South China Sea. Both ministers declined to provide further details.

New roads emerged in Nuaungdon, Pantanaw Townships

YANGON, 13 Jan— In hailing the National Convention a new tarred road was opened this morning in Nyaungdon. Minister for Progress of Border Areas and National Races and Development Affairs Col Thein Nyunt attended the ceremony.

With the length of 2,120 feet and width of 12 feet, the road was built by Nyaungdon Township Development Affairs Department, spending K 10.23 million.

The minister also attended Dauntgyi-Tawkyaung-Pyintongyi-Gonmin gravel road built by Pantanaw Township DAD. With the length of over 6 miles, the road will serve the interests of over 50,000 people living in Shwekyaungmyauk, Yaybawgyi and Taw-kyaung Village-tracts.

The minister paid homage to Tawkyaung Sayadawgyi U Indaka and presented offertories.

The minister also attended the opening of Basic Education High School (Branch) in Chaunggalay Village in Pantanaw Township.

A ceremony to donate cash for building new two-storey building of the school was also held. U Kyin Nyein-Daw Aye Myint of Po Lamin Co and U Nyein Myaing-Daw Khin Yi of Po Lamin Co donated K 5 million to Patanaw Township Education Officer U Min Naing.

19 legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw are harmonious
with each other, reasonable, and satisfactory, and are presented in accord with
three noblest and worthiest of worldly values

YANGON, 13 Jan — The following is a translation of suggestions of Delegate Group of Workers submitted to the plenary session of the National Convention by U Min Myint Maung Lay of Mon State regarding the detailed basic principles for legislation of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the Pyithu Hluttaw, the Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaw in formulating the State Constitution on 6 January at Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division.

I would like to discuss matters on the detailed basic principles for legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw to be included in the Chapter “Legislature” in formulating the State Constitution.

The National Convention has adopted a detailed basic principle that legislative powers of the State are vested in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, Region Hluttaw and State Hluttaw, and legislative power prescribed by the Constitution is vested in self-administered areas. One of the detailed basic principles for legislative formation says that the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw is made up of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw. It has also adopted a detailed basic principle that the two Hluttaws are formed separately, but they have to deal with each other in carrying out legislative functions, the major task of Hluttaws.

According to the principles, the two Hluttaws will have to deal with each other in carrying out legislative functions, their major task, and their ways of carrying out legislative functions need to be as similar as possible. So, I would like to discuss the legislative functions of the two Hluttaws as a whole.

I noticed that at the plenary session of the National Convention held from 13 to 15 December this year, the National Convention Convening Work Committee Chairman held complete discussions on the detailed basic principles for the legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw to be included in the Chapter “Legislature” of the Constitution. The members of the panel of chairmen of the delegate group of workers made a clarification to the discussion of the Work Committee Chairman, which has helped us further understand them. Here, I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Work Committee Chairman and legal experts who showed their good volition in explaining these matters in the interests of the State and the people.

Conducting a thorough review of the explanation of the Work Committee Chairman about legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw to be included in the Chapter “Legislature” in formulating the State Constitution, we found out the following points that should be adopted into detailed basic principles.

He made a complete clarification to 19 points suitable to be adopted into detailed basic principles referring the provisions and sections or articles of the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution and many facts including the fixing of the date for the first regular session that makes the terms of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw come into force; matters to convene first regular sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw to be held after the Constitution comes into force and first regular sessions to be held in the next terms; oaths to be taken by the members of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw in the first regular session of the Hluttaw concerned; the convening of regular sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; matters to be carried out in the sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; the fixing of quorum necessary for validity of the sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; making a decision through voting of members of the Hluttaw concerned to resolve a matter of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; action to be taken against the members who are absent from Hluttaw sessions; ensuring that the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw can go on carrying out their tasks even if there are some vacant seats for members in the Hluttaw concerned, and ensuring validity of decisions and activities of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw even if it is discovered later that a person who was not entitled to do so sat or voted or took part in the proceedings; public information about activities and records of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; submission of bills to the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; vesting power in the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw to revoke or amend bylaws, rules or regulations prescribed according to a law; submission and approving of bills at the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; rights of the Hluttaw that receives the bill when a bill approved by the Pyithu Hluttaw is sent to the Amyotha Hluttaw and a bill approved by the Amyotha Hluttaw is sent to the Pyithu Hluttaw; the rights of members representing a Union level body formed under the Constitution to hold discussions at the sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw and at the meetings of Hluttaw committee, commission and joint committee of the two Hluttaw; duties and rights of the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker; duties and rights of the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker; rights of members of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw; rights of a member or a person of a body formed under the Constitution to attend a Hluttaw session with permission or at the invitation; ways to attest a member of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw or a member of a commission and body formed by a Hluttaw if need arises; and legal privileges on reports and documents published by or in the name of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw.

These 19 legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Amyotha Hluttaw are harmonious with each other, reasonable, and satisfactory, and are presented in accord with three noblest and worthiest of worldly values such as justice, liberty and equality in the interests of the State and people. All members of the delegate group of workers agree to them unanimously. So, the following points should be adopted into detailed basic principles.

1. (a) The first regular session of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall be convened within 90 days after the general election commences

(b) (1) The term of the Amyotha Hluttaw commences on the date on which the term of the Pyithu Hluttaw commences

(2) The first regular session of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall be convened within seven days after the commencement of the term of that Hluttaw

2. (a) (1) The State Peace and Development Council shall convene the first regular session of the Pyithu Hluttaw after the Constitution has come into force

(2) The Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw who continues to perform his duties in accordance with provisions of this Constitution shall convene first regular sessions for the next terms of the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(b) (1) The State Peace and Development Council shall convene the first regular session of the Amyotha Hluttaw after the Constitution has come into force

(2) The Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw who continues to perform his duties in accordance with provisions of this Constitution shall convene first regular sessions for the next terms of the Amyotha Hluttaw.

3. (a) (1) Members of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall take oaths before the Chairman of the Pyithu Hluttaw at the first regular session of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(2) The members of the Pyithu Hluttaw, who have not taken oaths, shall take oaths before the Speaker of the Hluttaw at the session of the Pyithu Hluttaw they first attend

(b) (1) Members of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall take oaths before the Chairman of the Amyotha Hluttaw at the first regular session of the Amyotha Hluttaw

(2) The members of the Amyotha Hluttaw, who have not taken oaths, shall take oaths before the Speaker of the Hluttaw at the session of the Amyotha Hluttaw they first attend

4. (a) The Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall convene regular session of the Pyithu Hluttaw at least once a year. The interval between two regular sessions shall not exceed 12 months

(b) The Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall convene regular session of the Amyotha Hluttaw at least once a year. The interval between two regular sessions shall not exceed 12 months

5. (a) The following matters are carried out at the sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(1) Recording the address delivered by the President

(2) Reading out and recording the messages sent by the President and the messages permitted by the Speaker

(3) Submitting, discussing and making decision on a bill

(4) Discussing and deciding the matters the Pyithu Hluttaw shall implement in accord with the provisions of the Constitution

(5) Discussing, deciding and recording the reports presented to the Pyithu Hluttaw

(6) Submitting proposals, holding discussions and making decisions

(7) Raising questions and giving replies

(8) Implementing the matters permitted by the Speaker of Pyithu Hluttaw

(b) The following matters are carried out at the sessions of the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(1) Recording the address delivered by the President

(2) Reading out and recording the messages sent by the President and the messages permitted by the Speaker

(3) Submitting, discussing and making decision on a bill

(4) Discussing and deciding the matters the Amyotha Hluttaw shall implement in accord with the provisions of the Constitution

(5) Discussing, deciding and recording the reports presented to the Amyotha Hluttaw

(6) Submitting proposals, holding discussions and making decisions

(7) Raising questions and giving replies

(8) Implementing the matters permitted by the Speaker of Amyotha Hluttaw

6. (a) (1) The first day session of the Pyithu Hluttaw is valid if more than half the number of members who have the right to attend the Pyithu Hluttaw session, are present. If a session is not valid it shall be adjourned.

(2) The sessions that are adjourned under sub-para (1) due to invalidity and the valid sessions that are extended are valid if at least one-third of the Pyithu Hluttaw members are present.

(b) (1) The first day session of the Amyotha Hluttaw is valid if more than half the number of members who have the right to attend the Amyotha Hluttaw session, are present. If the session is not valid it shall be adjourned.

(2) The sessions that are adjourned under sub-para (1) due to invalidity and the valid sessions that are extended are valid if at least one-third of the Amyotha Hluttaw members are present.

7. (a) (1) Save as otherwise provided by this Constitution, a matter that should be decided through voting shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members present and voting.

(2) The Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw or the Deputy Speaker discharging duties as the Speaker at the Pyithu Hluttaw shall not vote in the first instance in the sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw, but shall have and exercise a casting vote in the matters of an equality of votes.

(b) (1) Save as otherwise provided by this Constitution, a matter that should be decided through voting shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members present and voting.

(2) The Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw or the Deputy Speaker discharging duties as the Speaker at the Amyotha Hluttaw sessions shall not vote in the first instance in the sessions of the Amyotha Hluttaw, but shall have and exercise a casting vote in the matters of an equality of votes.

8. (a) (1) The Pyithu Hluttaw may declare the seat of a member vacant in accord with the rules prescribed if he is absent, without asking the Pyithu Hluttaw for leave, from a session for 15 days successively. Provided that in computing the said period of 15 days no account shall be taken of any period during which the session is prorogued or is adjourned.

(2) The Pyithu Hluttaw shall take action against a member in accord with the rules prescribed if the Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw informed the Pyithu Hluttaw that member is absent from the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session for a period of 15 consecutive days without permission of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

(b) (1) The Amyotha Hluttaw may declare the seat of a member vacant in accord with the rules prescribed if he is absent, without asking the Pyithu Hluttaw for leave, from a session for 15 days successively. Provided that in computing the said period of 15 days no account shall be taken of any period during which the session is prorogued or is adjourned.

(2) The Amyotha Hluttaw shall take action against a member in accord with the rules prescribed if the Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw informed the Amyotha Hluttaw that member is absent from the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw session for a period of 15 consecutive days without permission of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

9. (a) Even if there are vacant seats, the Pyithu Hluttaw shall have the right to carry out its tasks. Moreover, the session shall not be annulled, if the acts of some person who was not entitled to do so, sat or voted or took part in the proceedings are discovered later.

(b) Even if there are vacant seats, the Amyotha Hluttaw shall have the right to carry out its tasks. Moreover, the session shall not be annulled, if the acts of some person who was not entitled to do so, sat or voted or took part in the proceedings are discovered later.

10. (a) The functions and records of Pyithu Hluttaw shall be published for public information. But the functions and records restricted by a law or decisions of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall not be published.

(b) The functions and records of Amyotha Hluttaw shall be published for public information. But the functions and records restricted by a law or decisions of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall not be published.

The bills approved by the Amyotha Hluttaw shall be forwarded to the
Pyithu Hluttaw for holding discussions and making a decision

YANGON, 13 Jan — The following is a translation of suggestions of Delegate Group of Workers submitted to the plenary session of the National Convention by Poe Rei Aung Thein of Kayah State regarding the detailed basic principles for legislation of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the Pyithu Hluttaw, the Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaw in formulating the State Constitution on 6 January at Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division.

I would like to read out the remaining points that should be adopted for legislative functions of the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw.

11. (a) Of the matters included in the Union Legislative List, except the matters prescribed in this Constitution which shall be initiated exclusively in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the remaining matters shall be initiated in the Pyithu Hluttaw according to the prescribed provisions

(b) Of the matters included in the Union Legislative List, except the matters prescribed in this Constitution which shall be initiated exclusively in the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the remaining matters shall be initiated in the Amyotha Hluttaw according to the prescribed provisions

12. (a) (1) After issuing a bylaw, rule or regulation in line with the law enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the organ concerned shall distribute the bylaw, rule or regulation to the Pyithu Hluttaw members at the nearest regular session of Pyithu Hluttaw under the arrangements permitted by the Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(2) If it is found that a bylaw, rule or regulation is not in conformity with the provisions of the law concerned, Hluttaw members can submit a proposal to annul or amend the bylaw, rule or regulation to the Pyithu Hluttaw within 90 days from the date that bylaw, rule or regulation is circulated.

(3) If the Pyithu Hluttaw and the Amyotha Hluttaw do not reach a consensus in making a decision to annul or amend a bylaw, rule or regulation, it shall be presented to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

(b) (1) After issuing a bylaw, rule or regulation in line with the law enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the organ concerned shall distribute the bylaw, rule or regulation to the Amyotha Hluttaw members at the nearest regular session of Amyotha Hluttaw under the arrangements permitted by the Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(2) If it is found that a bylaw, rule or regulation is not in conformity with the provisions of the law concerned, Hluttaw members can submit a proposal to annul or amend the bylaw, rule or regulation to the Amyotha Hluttaw within 90 days from the date that bylaw, rule or regulation is circulated.

(3) If the Amyotha Hluttaw and the Pyithu Hluttaw do not reach a consensus in making a decision to annul or amend a bylaw, rule or regulation, it shall be presented to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

13. (a) (1) If the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw sends the bills submitted by a Union level organization formed under the Constitution to the Pyithu Hluttaw in accordance with prescribed provisions, they shall be presumed that the bills are initiated in the Pyithu Hluttaw and shall be discussed and passed resolution in the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(2) Of the matters stated in the Union Legislative List, except the matters prescribed in the Constitution for which bills shall be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw to make a decision, members of the Pyithu Hluttaw have the right to initiate the bills related to the remaining matters in the Pyithu Hluttaw. Such bills shall be under discussion at the Pyithu Hluttaw in line with the prescribed provisions.

(3) The bills approved by the Pyithu Hluttaw shall be forwarded to the Amyotha Hluttaw for holding discussions and making a decision.

(b) (1) If the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw sends the bills submitted by a Union level organization formed under the Constitution to the Amyotha Hluttaw in accordance with prescribed provisions, they shall be presumed that the bills are initiated in the Amyotha Hluttaw and shall be discussed and passed resolution in the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(2) Of the matters stated in the Union Legislative List, except the matters prescribed in the Constitution for which bills shall be submitted to the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw to make a decision, members of the Amyotha Hluttaw have the right to initiate the bills related to the remaining matters in the Amyotha Hluttaw. Such bills shall be under discussion at the Amyotha Hluttaw in line with the prescribed provisions.

(3) The bills approved by the Amyotha Hluttaw shall be forwarded to the Pyithu Hluttaw for holding discussions and making a decision.

14. (a) (1) After receiving a bill sent by the Amyotha Hluttaw, the Pyithu Hluttaw can make a decision that it agrees or disagrees, or agrees with amendments. The Pyithu Hluttaw shall return the bill together with its decision to the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(2) When the Amyotha Hluttaw returns the bill, sent by the Pyithu Hluttaw to the Amyotha Hluttaw, with amendments, the Pyithu Hluttaw shall forward the bill to the Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw if it accepts the amendments of the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(3) The Pyithu Hluttaw shall seek the decision of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw if it disagrees with the Amyotha Hluttaw in dealing with the bill sent by the Pyithu Hluttaw to the Amyotha Hluttaw.

(b) (1) After receiving a bill sent by the Pyithu Hluttaw, the Amyotha Hluttaw can make a decision that it agrees or disagrees, or agrees with amendments. The Amyotha Hluttaw shall return the bill together with its decision to the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(2) When the Pyithu Hluttaw returns the bill, sent by the Amyotha Hluttaw to the Pyithu Hluttaw, with amendments, the Amyotha Hluttaw shall forward the bill to the Speaker of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw if it accepts the amendments of the Pyithu Hluttaw.

(3) The Amyotha Hluttaw shall seek the decision of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw if it disagrees with the Pyithu Hluttaw in dealing with the bill sent by the Pyithu Hluttaw to the Amyotha Hluttaw.

15. (a) Members of a Union level body formed under the Constitution shall have the right—

(1) to explain and discuss the bills and other matters of their bodies while attending a session of the Pyithu Hluttaw with the permission of the Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(2) to explain and discuss the bills and other matters of their bodies while attending sessions of the committee, commission and bodies of the Pyithu Hluttaw with the permission of the heads of these committee, commission and bodies

(b) Members of a Union level body formed under the Constitution shall have the right—

(1) to explain and discuss the bills and other matters of their bodies while attending a session of the Amyotha Hluttaw with the permission of the Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw

(2) to explain and discuss the bills and other matters of their bodies while attending sessions of the committee, commission and bodies of the Amyotha Hluttaw with the permission of the heads of these committee, commission and bodies

16. (a) The Speaker of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall have the right—

(1) to supervise sessions of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(2) to invite the President of the Union if he informs his desire to deliver a speech at a session of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(3) to invite members or persons representing a Union level body formed under the Constitution to a session of the Pyithu Hluttaw if necessary for a matter under way at a session of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(4) to discharge other duties and functions prescribed under the Constitution or a law

(b) The Speaker of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall have the right—

(1) to supervise sessions of the Amyotha Hluttaw

(2) to invite the President of the Union if he informs he wishes to deliver a speech at a session of the Amyotha Hluttaw

(3) to invite members or persons representing a Union level body formed under the Constitution to a session of the Amyotha Hluttaw if necessary for a matter under way at a session of the Amyotha Hluttaw

(4) to discharge other duties and functions prescribed under Constitution or a law

17. (a) (1) Members of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall have the freedom of speech and vote in the Pyithu Hluttaw and the committee of the Pyithu Hluttaw, subject to the provisions of the Constitution and the Pyithu Hluttaw. No action shall be taken against such persons for their speeches, except under the law of Pyithu Hluttaw.

(2) Members or persons representing a Union level body formed under the Constitution who are permitted to attend or invited to a session of the Pyithu Hluttaw or a committee of the Pyithu Hluttaw shall have the freedom of speech in the Pyithu Hluttaw or the committees of the Pyithu Hluttaw, subject to the provisions of the Constitution and the Pyithu Hluttaw. No action shall be taken against such persons for their speeches, except under the law of Pyithu Hluttaw.

(3) Action shall be taken against those members stated in sub-paras (a) and (b) in accordance with the existing laws if they make physical assault in enjoying the privileges.

(b) (1) Members of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall have the freedom of speech and vote in the Amyotha Hluttaw and the committee of the Amyotha Hluttaw, subject to the provisions of the Constitution and the Amyotha Hluttaw. No action shall be taken against such persons for their speeches, except under the law of Amyotha Hluttaw.

(2) Members or persons representing a Union level body formed under the Constitution who are permitted to attend or invited to a session of the Amyotha Hluttaw or a committee of the Amyotha Hluttaw shall have the freedom of speech in the Amyotha Hluttaw or the committees of the Amyotha Hluttaw, subject to the provisions of the Constitution and the Amyotha Hluttaw. No action shall be taken against such persons for their speeches, except under the law of Amyotha Hluttaw.

(3) Action shall be taken against those members stated in sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) in accordance with the existing laws if they make physical assault in enjoying the privileges.

18. (a) (1) If there arises a need to arrest a Pyithu Hluttaw member attending a Pyithu Hluttaw session or a person attending the Pyithu Hluttaw session with the permission or at the invitation of the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker.

(2) If there arises a need to arrest a member of a committee or commission or organization formed by the Pyithu Hluttaw attending a session of the committee or commission or organization, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker through the head of the committee or commission or organization concerned. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker.

(3) If there arises a need to arrest a member of Pyithu Hluttaw or committee, commission or organization when the Pyithu Hluttaw or the committee or the commission or the organization is not in session, reliable evidence in support of such arrest shall promptly be submitted to the Pyithu Hluttaw Speaker.

(b) (1) If there arises a need to arrest a Amyotha Hluttaw member attending a Amyotha Hluttaw session or a person attending the Amyotha Hluttaw session with the permission or at the invitation of the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker.

(2) If there arises a need to arrest a member of a committee or commission or organization formed by the Amyotha Hluttaw attending a session of the committee or commission or organization, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker thorough the head of the committee or commission or organization concerned. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker.

(3) If there arises a need to arrest a member of Amyotha Hluttaw or committee, commission or organization when the Amyotha Hluttaw or the committee or the commission or the organization is not in session, reliable evidence in support of such arrest shall promptly be submitted to the Amyotha Hluttaw Speaker.

19. (a) The reports, publications and records published by the Pyithu Hluttaw or under its authority shall be privileged.

(b) The reports, publications and records published by the Amyotha Hluttaw or under its authority shall be privileged.

Members of the delegate group of workers have discussed the detailed
basic principles that should be adopted regarding the legislative
functions of the Region or State Hluttaw

YANGON, 13 Jan— The following is a translation of suggestions of Delegate Group of Workers submitted to the plenary session of the National Convention by U Tha Aye of Rakhine State regarding the detailed basic principles for legislation of the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw, the Pyithu Hluttaw, the Amyotha Hluttaw, and Region or State Hluttaw in formulating the State Constitution on 6 January at Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division.

I would like to present the paper of the delegate group of workers regarding the detailed basic principles for legislative functions of the Region or State Hluttaw in formulating the State Constitution.

At the plenary session of the National Convention held from 13 to 15 December this year, the National Convention Convening Work Committee Chairman held discussions on the detailed basic principles for the legislative functions of the Region or State Hluttaw to be included in the Chapter “Legislature” of the Constitution. And the panel of chairmen made a further clarification to the discussions of the Work Committee Chairman on 16 December this year.

Every member of the delegate group of workers took time to study a copy each of the booklet featuring the clarification of the Work Committee Chairman distributed to National Convention delegates.

Then, we witnessed that the National Convention Convening Work Committee made a satisfactory explanation providing a complete reference to constitutions of many other nations apart from the 1947 Constitution and the 1974 Constitution.

We found that the Work Committee Chairman’s presentation is in conformity with and the most appropriate for the prevailing situations of our nation and the people.

So, we the delegate group of workers would like to suggest that the following points presented by the Work Committee Chairman should be adopted into detailed basic principles.

1. (a) The day the term of Region or State Hluttaw comes into force is that of the Pyithu Hluttaw

(b) The first regular session of Region or State Hluttaw shall be convened within 15 days after the commencement of the term of the Hluttaw

2. (a) The State Peace and Development Council shall convene the first regular session of Region or State Hluttaws after the Constitution has come into force

(b) The Speaker of Region or State Hluttaw who continues to perform his duties in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution shall convene the first regular session for the next terms of Region or State Hluttaw

3. (a) Members of Region or State Hluttaws shall take oaths before the chairman of Region or State Hluttaw at the first regular session of Region or State Hluttaw.

(b) Members of Region or State Hluttaw who have not taken oaths, shall take oath before the Speaker of the Hluttaw at the session of the Region or State Hluttaw they first attend

4. The Speaker of the Region or State Hluttaw shall convene the regular session of the Region or State Hluttaw at least once a year. The interval between two regular sessions shall not exceed 12 months.

5. The following matters are carried out at the session of the Region or State Hluttaw.

(a) Recording the address delivered by the Union President

(b) Reading out and recording messages sent by the President and other messages permitted by the Speaker

(d) Submitting, discussing and making decision on a bill

(e) Discussing and deciding the matters the Region or State Hluttaw shall implement in accordance with provisions of the Constitution and the existing laws

(f) Discussing, deciding and recording the reports presented to the Region or State Hluttaw

(g) Submitting proposals, holding discussions and making decisions

(h) Raising questions and giving replies

(i) Implementing matters permitted by Speaker of Region or State Hluttaw

6. (a) Speaker of respective Region or State Hluttaw can convene special session or emergency session of Region or State Hluttaws if necessary.

(b) Speaker of respective Region or State Hluttaw shall convene a special or emergency session of region or state as soon as possible when the Region or State Chief Minister informs to do so

(c) Speaker of respective Region or State Hluttaw shall convene a special session of region or state as soon as possible if at least one-fourth of the Region or State Hluttaw members ask to convene it

7. (a) The first day session of the Region or State Hluttaw is valid if more than half the number of members who have the right to attend the session of the Region or State Hluttaw, are present. The session if invalid shall be adjourned.

(b) The sessions that are adjourned due to invalidity in accordance with the sub-para (a) as well as the valid sessions that are extended are valid if at least one-third of the Hluttaw members, who have the right to attend a session of Region or State Hluttaw are present

8. (a) Save as otherwise provided by this Constitution, a matter that should be decided through voting in the Region or State Hluttaw shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members present and voting

(b) The Speaker of the Region or State Hluttaw or the Deputy Speaker discharging duties as the Speaker shall not vote in the first instance in the sessions of the Region or State Hluttaws, but shall have and exercise a casting vote in the matters of an equality of votes

9. If for a period of 15 consecutive days a member of Region or State Hluttaw is, without permission of the Hluttaw, absent from a session of Region or State Hluttaw, the Region or State Hluttaw can declare the seat of the Region or State Hluttaw member vacant in accordance with prescribed provisions. In computing the said period of 15 days, no account shall be taken of any period during which the session is prorogued, or is adjourned.

10. Although there are vacant seats, the Region or State Hluttaw shall have the right to carry out its tasks. Moreover, the session shall not be annulled, if the acts of some person who was not entitled to do so sat or voted or took part in the proceedings are discovered later.

11. The functions and records of the Region or State Hluttaw shall be published for public information. But, the functions and records restricted by a law or decisions of the Region or State Hluttaw shall not be published.

12. Region or State Hluttaw has the power to make laws for the whole or any part of the Region or State concerning matters stated in the Region or State Legislative List
13. (a) When the Region or State Hluttaw enacts a law, it may —

(1) entrust the right to issue bylaws, rules and regulations concerning the law to a region or state level organization formed under the Constitution

(2) authorize the organization or authority to issue notifications, orders, directives and procedures concerning the law

(b) The bylaws, rules, regulations, notifications, orders, directives and procedures issued with the right vested by a law shall be consonant with the stipulations contained in the Constitution and the law concerned.

(c) after issuing a bylaw, rules or regulations under the law enacted by Region or State Hluttaw, the organization concerned shall circulate the bylaw, rules or regulations to Hluttaw members during the nearest regular session of the Region or State Hluttaw with the arrangement permitted by the Hluttaw Speaker.

(d) If the bylaw, rules or regulations are found to be not consonant with the provisions of the law concerned, Region or State Hluttaw members can submit a proposal to annul or amend the by law, rules or regulations to Region or State Hluttaw within 90 days from the date they are circulated.

(e) If a decision is made by Region or State Hluttaw to annul or amend a bylaw, rules or regulations, the decision shall not affect however without prejudice to the validity of any action previously taken under the bylaw, rules or regulations.

14. (a) Matters that requires decision, assent and approval of Region or State Hluttaw shall be implemented as follows.

(1) If the Region or State Hluttaw is in session, the matter shall be decided at that session.

(2) If the Region or State Hluttaw is not in session, the discussions and decisions on the matter shall be made at the nearest Region or State Hluttaw session

(3) A special session or an emergency session shall be convened to discuss and decide the matters which need prompt action for public interest.

15. (a) Of the matters included in the Region or State Legislative List, the Region or State level organizations formed under the Constitution, can submit bills on matters under their management to the Region or State Hluttaw in accordance with the prescribed provisions.

(b) Bills on region or state plans, annual budgets and taxation which are to be submitted exclusively by the Region or State Government shall be submitted to the Region or State Hluttaw in accordance with the prescribed provisions.

16. Of the matters included in the Region or State Legislative List, except those prescribed under the Constitution to be submitted exclusively by the Region or State Government, the Region or State Hluttaw members can submit bills on other matters in accordance with the prescribed provisions.

17. Region or State Hluttaw shall make a decision when Region or State Government submits region or state budget in accordance with the prescribed provisions.

18. (a) The Region or State Chief Minister shall

(1) sign the bill approved by the Region or State Hluttaw and promulgate it as a law, within seven days after receiving it.

(2) sign the bill approved by the Self-Administered Region leading body and promulgate it as a law, within 14 days after receiving it.

(b) Although the Region or State Chief Minister does not sign the bill and promulgate it as a law with the fixed time, the bill shall come into force in like manner as if he had signed it on the last date of the fixed time.

(c) The bills signed by the Region or State Chief Minister and bills which have come into force in like manner as if they were signed by him, shall be promulgated in the Union Gazette. The laws shall come into force on the date of such promulgation unless the contrary intention are expressed.

19. (a) Of the members of a region or state level organization formed under the Constitution, members of Region or State Hluttaw shall have the right of discussing and voting concerning bills or matters related to their organizations in the Hluttaw sessions

(b) Of the members of a region or state level organization formed under the Constitution, those members who are not Region or State Hluttaw members while attending the session with the permission of Hluttaw Speaker shall have the right of discussing concerning bills or matters related to their organizations

20. The Speaker of Region or State Hluttaw shall—

(a) supervise Region or State Hluttaw sessions

(b) invite the Union President if he informs him of his desire to address the Region or State Hluttaw session

(d) have the right, if necessary, to invite members or persons of region or state level organization formed under the Constitution to the Region or State Hluttaw session to make clarification as regards matters under discussion

(e) perform other duties and responsibilities entrusted by the Constitution or a law

21. (a) Subject to the provisions stated in the Constitution and provisions stipulated in the Region or State Hluttaw Law, members of Region or State Hluttaw have freedom of speech and voting at the Region or State Hluttaw as well as at Region or State Hluttaw committee and organization. Concerning the discussions and functions , a Region or State Hluttaw member shall be privileged except under the Region or State Hluttaw Law.

(b) Subject to the provisions stated in the Constitution and provisions stipulated in the Region or State Hluttaw Law, members or persons who are permitted or invited to attend Region or State Hluttaw session have freedom of speech at the Region or State Hluttaw or Region or State Hluttaw committee and organizations. Concerning such discussions, they shall be privileged except under the Region or State Hluttaw Law.

(c) Action shall be taken against those members stated in sub-para (a) and (b) in accordance with the existing laws if they make physical assault in enjoying the privileges
22. (a) If there arises a need to arrest a Region or State Hluttaw member attending a Region or State Hluttaw session or a person attending the Hluttaw session with the permission or at the invitation of the Hluttaw Speaker, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Hluttaw Speaker. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Hluttaw Speaker.

(b) If there arises a need to arrest a member of a committee or an organization formed by the Region or State Hluttaw attending a session of the committee or organization, the reliable evidence shall be submitted to the Hluttaw Speaker through the head of the committee or organization concerned. He shall not be arrested without prior permission of the Hluttaw Speaker.

(c) If there arises a need to arrest a member of Region or State Hluttaw or committee or organization formed by the Hluttaw while the Hluttaw or the committee or the organization is not in session, reliable evidence in support of such arrest shall promptly be submitted to the Region or State Hluttaw Speaker.

23. The reports, documents and records published by the Region or State Hluttaw or under its authority shall be privileged.

We members of the delegate group of workers have discussed the detailed basic principles that should be adopted regarding the legislative functions of the Region or State Hluttaw.

Now, the detailed basic principles for formation and power distribution on three branches of sovereignty namely legislature, executive and judiciary has been adopted. We the delegate group of workers have made suggestions about the detailed basic principles for legislative functions of Hluttaws and relations between the Hluttaws and we conclude our paper here.

Cash donated to offer ‘soon’ to members of Sangha

YANGON, 13 Jan — Wellwishers raised a trust fund worth K 30 million for offering ‘soon’ (meals) to 710 members of Sangha residing in Pariyatti monasteries in Nyaungdon, Ayeyawady Division, this afternoon. The occasion took place at Ponnama Rama Monastery and was attended by Minister for Energy Brig-Gen Lun Thi, heads of department under the ministry and guests.

State Sangha Maha Nayaka Committee Joint-Secretary Nyaungdon Ponnama Rama Monastery Abbot Abhidhaja Maha Ratha Guru Bhaddanta Osatha Bhivamsa administered the five Precepts to the congregation. The cash donations include K 15.6 million by Asia World, K 4.2 million by Green Asia, K 3.4 million Asia World Industries, K 2.7 million by Golden Aaron, K 2.2 million by Asia Light and K 1.9 million by Yadana Taungtan Gems Co.

The aim of the cash donations is to serve religious interest with the contributions of the wellwishers in Nyaungdon which is producing oil and natural gas under the leadership of the Ministry of Energy.

Environmental Conservation Special Work Group-3 meets

YANGON, 13 Jan — Environmental Conservation Special Work Group-3 (Yangon Division, Mon and Kayin States) under the Union of Myanmar Environmental Conservation Committee held its coordination meeting 1/2006 at the Ministry of Information on Theinbyu Street, here, this afternoon.

In-charge of the work group-3 Deputy Minister for Information Brig-Gen Aung Thein delivered an opening address.

Joint-Secretary of the work group-3 Director of Information and Public Relations Department U Maung Pe reported on establishment of work groups and duties assigned to them.

Secretary of the Work Group-3 Director of Forest Department U Letyar Aung reported on duties and functions of the work group-3 and functions for the state and division work groups.

Chairmen and secretaries of the state and division work groups briefed them on progress of tasks and future plans. Members of the Special Work Group took part in the discussions.

Later, the meeting ended with concluding remarks by Deputy Minister Brig-Gen Aung Thein.

Mining sector witnesses sustained progress
Increased output of mineral resources in the time of the Tatmadaw Government
More mines, mining blocks and factories emerge in states and divisions

Gems play an important role in the economic sector of the State. Joint Venture Enterprises are conducting their businesses such as surveying, mining, processing and trading of various minerals and gems.

For the long-term interest, they are doing their business in accord with laws prescribed. In the country mineral deposits can be found most in Sagaing and Mandalay Divisions and border areas. Therefore, while taking measures for border area development, gems are mined in these areas.

Such minerals as coal, limestone, lead, zinc, nickel, cromite, gypsum, platinum and iron are being explored and mined in Kengtung east region, Palaung region, Kachin special region, Wa region and Taninthayi region. Moreover, precious minerals are hunted in other states and divisions and thus mineral ores have emerged in various parts of the nation.

The table shows increase in the number of mines, mining blocks and factories in the time of the Tatmadaw government.

MWAF gives educative talks

YANGON, 13 Jan — Organized by Myanmar Women’s Affairs Federation, an educative talk was given at Drug Elimination Museum at the corner of Hanthawady Street and Kyundaw Street this morning.

Patron of Yangon Division Women’s Affairs Organization Daw Khin Thet Htay,Head of Administrative Department of MWAF Dr Daw Khin Hsan Nwe and officials, Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo, wife of Minister for Home Affairs , Daw Khin Hsan Wai, wife of Deputy Minister for Home Affairs, and wives of senior officials, members of MWAF of the Ministry of Home Affairs and their families, Chairpersons and executives of Yangon Division/District/Township WAO and guests totalling 350 attended the educative talks.
Firstly, Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo extended the greetings.Deputy Head of Administrative Department of MWAF Director Daw Kyin San gave the educative talks on “ Women and Legal Affairs”.

Dr Daw Nyunt Nyunt Oo, wife of Minister for Home Affairs, presented membership applications to Patron of Yangon Division WAO Daw Khin Thet Htay and the ceremony came to an end.

‘‘Mystery of the Snow”, breakthrough in Myanmar film industry

YANGON, 13 Jan—The picture Hlyo-hwat-thaw-hnin (Mystery of the Snow) created by film director Zin Yaw Maung Maung of Zin Yaw Film Production won seven academy awards for 2004 — film award, director award, sound award, film editing award, cinematography award, supporting actor award, and scriptwriter award.

The picture “Mystery of the Snow’’ has been staged in the film festival in Singapore, South Africa, the Republic of Korea, and the People’s Republic of China. Plans are now under way for the film to be on in France, Japan and India.

It was shot with an international standard camera along with English subtitles and computer effects, and the developing and editing of the film is on a per with international level.

To do it a fine work, members of the film group had to climb up steep mountain ranges, get over icy streams, and shoot pictures at the top of the snow-capped mountain “Phonganyazi” at considerable risk to themselves.

The picture “The Misery of the Snow” wins the satisfaction of Myanmars and foreigners around the world.

Courses on intellectual property rights opened

YANGON, 13 Jan— Under the arrangements of the Education Work Committee of Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry and organized by WIPO, General Course on Intellectual Property Rights (Batch -5), Advanced Course Copyright DL 201 and eCommerce and IP DL-202 Course were opened at the UMFCCI Training Centre on 3 January.

General Secretary of UMFCCI U Sein Win Hlaing who is also the chairman of the Education Work Committee delivered an address. Advocate U Maung Maung Win of the Supreme Court reported on matters relating to the courses. Joint Secretary U Tun Aung (Tawwin Tun) of UMFCCI also spoke on the occasion. Altogether 48 trainees attended the courses.

Huawei completes first phase of cellular-network

YANGON, 13 Jan— Huawei, a major Chinese telecom equipment supplier, will hand over the completed first phase of cellular-network to CAT Telecom of Thailand on 26 January in Chiang Mai.

Huawei has installed 812 base station of the Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) 20001-x broadband cellular network in 51 province. An additional 800 base stations for CAT in the same provinces are expected to complete by the end of this year.

Huawei made its debut in Thailand many years ago with AIS as its first customer.

Myanmar bags two gold, two silver in Tennis Championships

YANGON, 13 Jan — Myanmar Tennis players bagged two gold and two silver in the Group-2 Tennis Tournament of the ITF 14 and Under Asian Championships 2006 continued at Theinbyu Tennis Plaza, here, this morning.

In the men’s singles event, Aung Kyaw Naing of Myanmar secured one gold medal with a 2-0 win (6-1) (7-5) over Santos of Malaysia. In the men’s doubles final match, Myanmar duo Aung Kyaw Naing and Aung Ko Oo trounced Vietnam duo Le Phat and Vole Quoe Huy 2-1, and snatched one gold medal.

In the women’s singles event, Muttan of Sri Lanka defeated Khaing Nyein Tha of Myanmar 2-1. Khaing Nyein Tha won one silver medal. In the women’s doubles event, Huynh Phuong Dai Ti and Phan Thi Thanh Bin of Vietnam crushed Khaing Nyein Tha and Thanda Aung 2-0. The Myanmar women duo consoled with one silver medal.

Tomorrow morning, The 2nd Tournament of the Championships will follow at the same venue.