Robust economy required for nation as its economy is serving as
main link connecting political and social sectors

Yangon, 19 Feb - On behalf of the Panel of Chairmen, Alternate Chairman U Mya Aye of the Delegates of Peasants presented the panel of chairmen's collection of excerpts from the suggested proposals submitted by delegates to the National Convention on the economic sector at the Pyidaungsu Hall of the Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division, yesterday.

The following is a translation of presentation made by U Mya Aye.

Respected delegates,

In connection with the basic principles to be laid down for the economic sector relevant to the sharing of legislative power that shall be included in writing the State constitution, I will continue to present the panel of chairmen's collection of excerpts from the suggested proposals submitted by some delegate groups to the National Convention and from those by certain delegates to the National Convention.

Respected delegates,

The Work Committee Chairman made a clarification concerning the economic sector at the Plenary Meeting of the National Convention on 19 May 2004. He said: "I am now going to explain the economic sector.

The State, with the aim of ensuring the emergence of a peaceful, modern and developed nation, is making endeavours for the economic sector, laying down the economic objectives and long-term and short-term plans, and making systematic and coordinated efforts.

A robust economy is required for a nation as its economy is serving as the main link connecting political and the social sector. The connection between the political and social sectors will be strong only if the economic link is strong.

Concerning the economy, the National Convention has also laid down the following principles to be formulated as the basis:

1. the State economic system shall be market-oriented economic system;

2. the State permits all economic forces such as the State itself, regional organizations, cooperative organizations, joint ventures organizations and private concerns etc, to take part in economic activities for the development of national economy;

3. the State shall prevent acts that harm public interests through monopolization or manipulation of prices by an individual or group with intent to jeopardize fair competition in economic activities.

The following is a collection of issues concerning the economic sector that should be included in the Union Legislative list:

1. Economy

2. Trade

3. Cooperatives

4. Corporations, boards, enterprises, companies and partnerships

5. Imports and exports and quality control

6. Hotels and accommodation

7. Tour business

In this regard, I have explained the said issues so as to enable delegates to make discussion and give suggestion on whether or not the detailed principles are to be formulated to include in the Union Legislative list.

The following is a collection of issues that should be included in the region or state Legislative list concerning the economic sector:

1. Economic activities carried out in a region or state in accord with the law enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw

2. Trade activities carried out in a region or state in accord with the law enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw

3. Cooperative activities carried out in a region or state in accord with the law enacted by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw

In this regard, I have explained the said issues so as to enable delegates to make discussion and give suggestion on whether or not to lay down detailed basic principles to include the matter in the region or state Legislative list."

Respected delegates,

As regards this clarification, the National Unity Party, which is one of seven political parties of the delegate group of political parties, discussed that in line with the open market-oriented economic system, businesses in trade, cooperatives, corporation, enterprise, company, and joint ventures are being conducted on a wider and extensive scale. It is encouraging to note that permission is granted to foreign and domestic entrepreneurs to establish companies. The holding of trade fairs at home to encourage the development of export industry and to find new markets can contribute much to the country's economy. It is therefore proper to include this matter in the Union Legislative List. After the designation of the year 1996 as Visit Myanmar Year with the aim of earning more foreign exchange, the number of tourists visiting the country has been on the rise. Modern and posh hotels are necessary to ensure cozy and comfortable accommodation for them. It is therefore proper to include the hotel and tourism industry in the Union Legislative List. The National Unity Party also agreed to the distribution of power to the region or the state in accord with the law prescribed by the Union to enable them to undertake trade and cooperatives in their own areas.

The Union PaO National Organization discussed that detailed basic principles should be laid down in the Union Legislative List for commerce, trade, cooperatives, enterprise, industry, joint venture, the evaluation of the quality of import and export goods, and hotel and tourism industry.

The Mro (a) Khami National Solidarity Organization suggested that in the words of the Work Committee Chairman in respect of the economic sector, economy links political and social affairs. Only then will the political and social affairs be consolidated. As regards the economic sector, the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists should be laid down as detailed basic principles.

The Lahu National Development Party agreed that in connection with the economic sector it is proper to designate as detailed basic principles the seven points that should be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points that should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists to enact laws when necessary.

The Union Kayin League agreed to the fact that when it comes to the economic sector, the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative and the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists should be laid down as detailed basic principles.

The Kokang Democracy and Unity Party, in its suggested proposal, said that the economic objectives are being implemented to raise the living standard of the people. It said the development of political and social affairs depends on economic growth, and it is therefore necessary to ensure economic growth across the country. It agreed to the Work Committee Chairman's clarification on the economic sector.

The Wa National Development Party discussed that measures are being taken to develop the country's economy through the implementation of the economic objectives and short- and long-term policies. The country has also turned to the open market-oriented economic system that will be in conformity with the changing political system. In this process, laws are re-examined, amended, annulled, and promulgated, as necessary. The National Convention has also passed three basic economic policies.

The Wa National Development Party considered the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative List to be in conformity with the prevailing condition of the country. Therefore, these points should be added to the Union Legislative List as detailed basic principles to enact laws when necessary.

Economic boost will bring prosperity to the regions and states. The participation of private sector in trade is on the increase just as the cooperative societies are contributing much to it. The Wa National Development Party also suggested that the three economic points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists as detailed basic principles to enact laws when necessary.

Respected delegates,

Of the five proposed papers submitted by the delegate group of representatives-elect, which is one of eight delegate groups to the National Convention, the National Unity Party and the Mro (a) Khami National Solidarity Organization presented their proposals.

In like manner, Dr Hmu Htan, who is a member of the delegate group of representatives-elect and the independent representative-elect from the constituency of Thantlan township in Chin State, and U Aung Thein, who is a member of the delegate group of representatives-elect and the independent representative-elect from the constituency of Ywangan township in Shan State, discussed that the seven points relevant to the economic policy clarified by the Work Committee Chairman are reasonable and that these points should be put in the Union Legislative List as detailed basic principles. The two independent representatives-elect also agreed to the three points to be designated as detailed basic principles in the Region or State Legislative Lists.

U Tin Win, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-2 of Kyaiklat township, U Thein Kyi, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-1 of Taungdwingyi township, U Hla Soe, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-2 of Minbu township, U Mya Hlaing, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-2 of Twantay township, U Kyi Win, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-1 of Mingaladon township, and U Tin Tun Maung, the independent representative-elect from the constituency-2 of Mingaladon township discussed that they found the following matters - 1. economy; 2. trade; 3. cooperatives; 4. corporation, board, enterprise, company and partnership; and 5. import, export and quality control Ñ proper to be embedded in the Union Legislative List.

They also suggested on hotels and accommodations. Their suggestion was that hotels and accommodations vary from one another in standard. The same thing can be said of the travellers. Guests can be categorized into State-sponsored guests, tourists, merchants, pilgrims and so on.

They continued that it is proper to include in the Union Legislative List in order to enact laws in connection with the hotel management. However, it is also suggested in connection with small or second-class accommodations that necessary laws be enacted depending on the different conditions of the areas where such industry is undertaken.

They also discussed that tourism can fall into two types: one is global and the other is local. Therefore, it will be wise to distribute legislative power to the Region or State Hluttaws so that they can enact laws relevant to the size of tourism industry run in their respective areas.

U Tun Kyaw, the independent representative-elect from the constituency of Namhsan Township in Shan State (North), discussed that he agreed what the Work Committee Chairman mentioned in respect of the economic sector are proper to be included as detailed basic principles in the Union Legislative List. He also suggested that certain crops are sufficiently available in the regions or states and hence a basic principle should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists so that laws can be enacted as necessary in these areas to prohibit the import of such crops from neighbouring countries.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of national races proposed that the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists should be considered detailed basic principles.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of peasants discussed that economic objectives are being implemented to ensure social advancement in the life of the people. It also said that laws, rules, and regulations are promulgated to enable the open market-oriented economic system to take full shape. It approved of the seven points that should be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points that should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists, adding that these points should be regarded as detailed basic principles. I

t also said that the places of tourist attraction may exist in the regions or states. Therefore, tourism industry should be undertaken on a greater scale in these areas with the help of the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism.

It pointed out that hilly regions lagged behind in development as a result of the continued practice of the slash and burn farming method although measures are being taken to boost the national economy through agriculture.

It continued that close supervision should be made more than ever before to ensure the shift from the old method to the modern slope farming method in line with the highland farming method set by the government. It added that the right should be granted according to law as to turning the "slash and burn" farmland into village-owned firewood plantations or into manageable-scale forest plantations.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of workers discussed that economic policies were laid down to enable the open market-oriented economic system to take full shape, and that as some economic reforms are not sufficient to change once, some reforms should be made in harmony with other changes. Only then will they prove effective.

It suggested that the right to the promulgation of economic laws should be embedded in the Union Legislative List as the adoption and implementation of economic policies should be conducted at Union level.

It also said that with the introduction of the open market-oriented economic system, the scope of domestic and foreign trade is expanding. Encouragement is being given to the private sector in trade. Only when assistance is given at Union level will the whole country prosper and enjoy equal footing. It pointed out that it is necessary to add the matter of trade and commerce in the Union Legislative List so that law can be enacted when necessary.

Trade policies should be laid down by the Union level for the smooth operation of businesses by the cooperative societies across the country. Therefore, when it comes to the cooperative societies, it should be included in the Union Legislative List so as to enact laws as necessary.

The State encourages the private sector, corporations, companies and joint ventures for their wider participation in economy and trade of the country. In this context, the State enacts necessary laws. The formation of such business groups should be systematic and consistent with international norms. Therefore, the Union Legislative List should include this matter so as to enact law when necessary.

After laying down the economic objectives, the State is giving assistance to business groups to ensure the full realization of the open market-oriented economic system. It is however necessary in this competitive market to supervise the quality of products manufactured by the State- and private-owned business industries. Therefore, the Union Legislative List should include the matter of "import, export and quality control" so as to enact laws when necessary.

Efforts are being made on the government part as well as on the private part to earn more foreign exchange and to boost tourism industry. This being the case, it should be included in the Union Legislative List so as to enact laws as necessary in connection with tourism industry.

With the practice of the open market-oriented economic system, economy and trade are on the increase as a result of increased participation of the private sector.

The Pyidaungsu Hluttaw will prescribe commercial or trade acts that are needed to follow throughout the country. In like manner, the Region or State Hluttaws may have their reasons to do the same thing in their respective areas. In connection with the trade and commerce to be conducted in the regions or states, it should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists to enact laws for their respective regions in line with the law prescribed by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

As regards the cooperative industry to be undertaken in the regions or states, it should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists to enact laws for their respective areas in line with the law prescribed by the Pyidaungsu Hluttaw.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of intellectuals and intelligentsia discussed that the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists should be laid down as detailed basic principles as clarified by the Work Committee Chairman so as to enact commercial and trade laws and to draw economic plans.

It also agreed to the fair competitive market. In this context, it is however necessary to introduce a law that will deter the giant business enterprise from abuse of their financial strength. To do so, fair competition law comprising trade policy, consumer policy, competition policy, and anti-corruption policy should be prescribed.

The group noted that some imported dairy products could not be examined or tested whether they were contaminated by radiation through conventional methods.

As such, it said, there were times when the entire shiploads of the products were dumped into the sea.

Fortunately, it added, the products imported by the country were tested uncontaminated by radiation after the Chernobyl incident.

However, it suggested that the fifth point of the economic sector should be replaced with the term "import, export, and inspection and control of quality", for some dairy products might have been contaminated by radiation.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of State service personnel discussed that the seven points to be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists should be laid down as detailed basic principles.

Respected delegates,

The delegate group of other invited persons discussed that the Work Committee Chairman had clarified the seven points that should be included in the Union Legislative List and the three points that should be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists. It then approved of these points.

It also suggested that of the seven points, the fifth point be substituted with the term "import and export", in lieu of the term "import, export, and quality control". As regards the three points to be included in the Region or State Legislative Lists, it also suggested that the term "in line with the law prescribed by the Union" be replaced with the term "in line with the economic policy of the State".

As regards the sixth and seventh points, they also suggested that consideration be made to grant the right to close supervision for these two points to the Region, or State, or Self-administered Area, or the Leading Committee of Self-administered Zone.

Source: "The New Light Of Myanmar", www.myanmar.com/nlm/
 

The State shall provide inputs such as technology, investments,
machinery, raw materials etc. as much as it can
for changeover from manual to mechanized agriculture

Yangon, 19 Feb - On behalf of the Panel of Chairmen, Member of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen Dr Myo Thant Tin of the Delegates of Workers presented the panel of chairmen's collection of excerpts from the suggested proposals submitted by delegates to the National Convention on the agriculture and livestock breeding sector at the Pyidaungsu Hall of the Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division, yesterday.

The following is a translation of presentation made by Dr Myo Thant Tin.

Esteemed delegates, Now, a collection of the excerpts from the suggestions compiled by the panel of meeting chairmen concerning the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector to be scheduled to be included in the sharing the legislative power will be presented.

Esteemed delegates,

At the plenary meeting held on 19 May 2004, the Work Committee Chairman said, "Now, I will continue to explain matters relating to the agriculture and livestock breeding sector. The first one of the four State objectives states, " Development of agriculture as the base and all-round development of other sectors of the economy as well." The National Convention has also laid down the detailed basic principles Ñ The State shall provide inputs such as technology, investments, machinery, raw materials etc. as much as it can for changeover from manual to mechanized agriculture.

What I have so far presented is the matters that must be put in the agriculture and livestock sector and that should be included in the Union Legislative list. They may be stated together as follows:

1. land management,

2. reclamation of vacant, fallow and virgin lands,

3. settlement and land records,

4. survey,

5. dams, embankments and water supply managed by Pyidaungsu,

6. meteorology, hydrology and seismic survey,

7. registration, 8. mechanized farming,

9. agricultural research,

10. chemical fertilizer and insecticide, and

11. marine fisheries.

Therefore, delegates to the National Convention are to give suggestions as to whether or not the detailed basic principles should be laid down to include them in the Union Legislative list to enact laws, if necessary, in connection with the matters mentioned above."

He continued to say, "The matters of the agriculture and livestock sector that should be included in the Region or State Legislative list are as follows:

1. agriculture,

2. prevention and control of pests,

3. proper use of chemical fertilizer and systematic production of inorganic fertilizer,

4. agricultural loans and savings,

5. dams, embankments, lakes, ditches and supply of irrigation water, for which the divisions or states have the right to manage,

6. fresh water fisheries, and

7. livestock breeding, prevention and treatment of diseases and the keeping of animals systematically.

Therefore, the delegates to the Convention are to give suggestions as to whether or not the detailed basic principles should be laid down to include them in the Region or State Legislative list in connection with the matters mentioned above."

The National Unity Party said that the land management, reclamation of vacant, fallow and virgin lands, and settlement and land records should be included in the Union legislative list. The legislative power for dams, embankments, lakes, ditches and supply of irrigation water is being distributed to regions and states. It is appropriate to distribute the legislative power concerning lakes, ditches and supply of irrigation water to regions and states. The party sees inclusion of meteorology, hydrology and seismic survey, registration, mechanized farming, agricultural research, chemical fertilizer and insecticide, and marine fisheries in the Union legislative list appropriate.

The Union Pa-O National Organization said that land and water are the main requirements of the agricultural sector. Thus, the Government has been building irrigation facilities with might and main. Myanmar should train its staff to be skilled in conducting meteorology, hydrology and seismic survey and research. The Government has laid down six work programmes for agricultural mechanization. It had also formed the Myanmar Industrial Development Committee and set up industrial zones all over the country. It will conduct research work constantly and make arrangements for distributing adequate amount of fertilizers and pesticides in all parts of the nation. Sea and fresh water fishing should be carried out in accord with the procedures. Land management, reclamation of vacant, fallow and virgin lands, settlement and land records, survey, dams, embankments and water supply managed by Pyidaungsu, meteorology, hydrology and seismic survey, registration, .mechanized farming, agricultural research, chemical fertilizer and insecticide, and marine fisheries should be included in the Union legislative list as basic principles. The seven points of the sector should also be included in the region or state legislative list.

Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization said that the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region of state legislative list.

Lahu National Development Party said that the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region of state legislative list.

Union Kayin League said that it is appropriate to include the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector in the Union legislative list. The party has no other suggestions concerning the inclusion of the seven points of the sector in the region or state legislative list.

Kokang Democracy and Unity Party said that sharing of the legislative power concerning the agricultural and livestock breeding sector between the Union and the regions or states is appropriate.

Wa National Development Party said that in the past successive eras, the laws concerning the land management were enacted by the highest law-making body of the nation. Land management policies have been laid down and necessary laws have been enacted for successful materialization of the agricultural goals. As explained by the Work Committee Chairman, the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list.

The Work Committee Chairman has also pointed out the sectors to be put under the management of regions and states. Thus, the seven points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the region or state legislative list.

Of the five papers presented by representatives-elect group, the papers presented by the delegates of the National Unity Party and the Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization are the same as the ones presented by the delegates of the respective parties in the political parties delegate group.

Representative-elect Dr Hmu Htan of Thantlan Township constituency in Chin State, and Representative-elect U Aung Thein of Ywangan Township constituency in Shan State said that the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative list. Representatives-elect U Tin Win of Kyaiklat Township constituency-2, U Thein Kyi of Taungdwingyi Township constituency-1, U Hla Soe of Minbu Township constituency-2, U Mya Hlaing of Twantay Township constituency-2, U Kyi Win of Mingaladon Township constituency-1 and U Tin Tun Maung of Mingaladon Township constituency-2 said that the Union of Myanmar has different types of land for reclamation, and possibility of the occurrence of natural hazards is also different between one region and another and they are subject to various climatic conditions. Authorities of the regions and states and self-administered areas should be permitted to reclaim land for development of various sectors without going against the Union laws.

Moreover, the tasks regarding settlement and land records, survey, dams, embankments and water supply managed by Pyidaungsu, meteorology, hydrology and seismic survey, registration, mechanized farming, agricultural research, and chemical fertilizer and insecticide should be included in the Union legislative list. It is appropriate to include the sector concerning the marine fisheries in the Union legislative list to enact laws for local and foreign fishing enterprises running business in the vast Myanmar territorial waters.

Representative-elect U Tun Kyaw of Namhsan Township constituency in northern Shan State said that in addition to taking measures for agricultural development, crops cultivation businesses that should help develop border areas should be extended.

In hill regions it is difficult to cultivate paddy, sugarcane, cotton, and beans and pulses on an extensive scale. Slash-and-burn cultivation destroys forests and causes adverse weather changes . Thus the nation needs to introduce advanced farming methods. Locals should conduct manageable-scale research on their own crop plantations till the emergence of large-scale farms run by the State or by big companies. They should conduct research, set up model farms, visit farms of other nations and invite foreign experts. Otherwise, Myanmar market will be flooded with foodstuff such as apples, tea, garlic ect imported from other countries within a few years. Research projects in regions and states and self-administered areas must be permitted if they are not against the Union law. Thus, the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative list. The national race delegate group said that the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative list.

In giving a separate suggestion, the group dealt with the occurrence, control and vaccination of animal diseases. The State will have to conduct research to produce new and potent vaccines and to prevent the spread of animal diseases in regions or states bordering the countries where the infection starts. A basic principle concerning the animal disease prevention and treatment should be included in the Union legislative list. The term "livestock breeding, prevention and treatment of diseases and the keeping of animals systematically" of the matters regarding the agriculture and livestock sector that should be included in the region or state legislative list should be substituted with the term "Livestock breeding and keeping of animals systematically."

Generally, industrial nations are rich. But they have to make arrangements to obtain adequate amount of raw materials to get rich. Thus, cultivation of paddy, beans and pulses, sugarcane, cotton, coffee should be extended for local consumption and export, according to the national race delegate group.

Peasant delegate group said that the first objective of the four economic objectives calls for "Development of agriculture as the base and all-round development of other sectors of economy as well." Targets should be set to extend food and industrial crop production for local consumption as well as for export. Policies for land reclamation, survey and irrigation works should be laid down and necessary laws should be enacted to realize the targets. In this context, the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list.

The regions and states have the duty to give close supervision to the national plans for their success. Thus, the seven points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the region or state legislative list. Worker delegate group said that the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative list.

Intellectuals and intelligentsia delegate group discussed in support of the 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector that should be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points of the sector that should be included in the region or state legislative list. The group gave a suggestion to add the point "Animal reproduction, disease control and treatment, and research" as the 12th of the 11 points to be included in the Union legislative list. It also gave a suggestion to substitute the term Òlivestock breeding, prevention and treatment of diseases and the keeping of animals systematically" of the matters regarding the agriculture and livestock sector that should be included in the region or state Legislative list should be substituted with the term ÒLivestock breeding and keeping of animals systematically."

State service personnel delegate group said that 11 points of the agricultural and livestock breeding sector should be included in the Union legislative list. It also added the sector "Animal generation, disease control and treatment, and research" as the 12th of the 11 points. Livestock should be kept systematically to avoid causing public annoyance. Thus the sector "Animal reproduction, disease control and treatment, and research" should be included in the Union legislative list.

The group discussed in support of the points from 1 to 6 out of the seven that should be included in the region or state legislative list, suggesting to substitute the seventh point "livestock breeding, prevention and treatment of diseases and the keeping of animals systematically" with the term "Livestock breeding and keeping of animals systematically," in accord with the law enacted by the Union.

In connection with this, the group said regions and states should give close supervision to the task of livestock breeding and keeping of animals systematically. Thus the task should be included in the region or state legislative list.

Other invited persons delegates group said that in his clarification, the Work Committee Chairman said, "The State shall provide inputs such as technology, investments, machinery, raw materials etc. as much as it can for changeover from manual to mechanized agriculture." As the point is in accord with the State's economic objectives, the group discussed in support of the 11 points to be included in the Union legislative list and the seven points to be included n the region or state legislative list.

If the regions and states are permitted to manage land, produce and use chemical fertilizers and pesticides and conduct research work, the nation's agricultural sector will achieve rapid development.

Of the points that should be included in the Union legislative list, the following sectors

1. land management,

2. reclamation of vacant, fallow and virgin lands,

8. mechanized farming,

9. agricultural research,

10. chemical fertilizer and insecticide, and 11. marine fisheries" should be permitted to run by the regions ad states.

Source: "The New Light Of Myanmar", www.myanmar.com/nlm/
 

Not only do matters suitable to be put in energy, electricity, mineral
and forestry sector concern the whole nation, but they also link with regions or states

Yangon, 19 Feb - On behalf of the Panel of Chairmen, Member of the Panel of Alternate Chairmen Dr U Thein Oo Po Saw of the Delegates of Intellectuals and Intelligentia presented the panel of chairmen's collection of excerpts from the suggested proposals submitted by delegates to the National Convention on the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector at the Pyidaungsu Hall of the Nyaunghnapin Camp in Hmawby Township, Yangon Division, yesterday.

The following is a translation of presentation made by U Thein Oo Po Saw.

Esteemed delegates,

Now, a collection of the excerpts from the suggestions compiled by the panel of meeting chairmen concerning the 11 points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector scheduled to be included in the sharing the legislative power will be presented.

Esteemed delegates,

At the plenary meeting held on 19 May 2004, the Work Committee Chairman said, "I will now explain the matters related to the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector. Concerning the land, water and air resources, the National Convention has formulated the fundamental principles as follows:

1. The State is the ultimate owner of all the land, and natural resources above and below the ground, above and beneath the water and in the atmosphere within its territorial boundary.

2. The State shall enact necessary law to supervise economic forces' extraction and utilization of State-owned natural resources."

He then pointed out, "The matters related to the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector that should be included in the Union Legislative list are as follows:

1. oil, gas and other liquid and solid products considered dangerously inflammable according to Pyidaungsu Law;

2. Union electricity production and distribution;

3. minerals, mines, safety of mines workers, and environmental conservation and reconstruction;

4. gems;

5. pearl;

6. forest; and

7. conservation and protection of wildlife, natural trees and natural areas including the environment.

"Not only do the matters suitable to be put in the energy, electricity, mineral and forestry sector concern the whole nation, but they also link with regions or states. Therefore, the delegates to the National Convention are to give suggestions as to whether or not the detailed basic principles should be laid down to include them in the Union Legislative list to enact laws, if necessary, in connection with the matters mentioned above."

He continued to say, "Now, I have given a brief account of the matters related to the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector that should be included in the Region or State Legislative list. They can be categorized as follows:

1. small electricity production and distribution industry under the supervision of the region or the state, except big and medium electricity production and distribution under the supervision of the Union;

2. salt and salt products;

3. the cutting and polishing of gem stones in the region or state;

4. village-owned fuel wood plantations; and

5. recreation centres, zoological gardens and botanical gardens.

"Therefore, the delegates to the National Convention are to give suggestions as to whether or not the detailed basic principles should be laid down to include them in the Legislative list of the Region or State concerned to enact laws, if necessary, in connection with the matters mentioned above."

Concerning the sector, National Unity Party said that it has no further suggestions or discussions concerning the sector.

Union Pa-O National Organization said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as basic principles.

Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

Lahu National Development Party said that the inclusion of the seven points of the sector in the Union legislative list and the five points in the region or state legislative lists is appropriate.

Union Kayin League said that the party has no supplementary discussions and suggestions on the matter of putting the sector in the Union legislative list. All the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists.

Kokang Democracy and Unity Party said that the National Convention has laid down the following two basic principles:

1. The State is the ultimate owner of all the land, and natural resources above and below the ground, above and beneath the water and in the atmosphere within its territorial boundary.

2. The State shall enact necessary law to supervise economic forces' extraction and utilization of State-owned natural resources. The party has no further discussions and suggestion on the sharing of legislative power between the Union and regions and states concerning the sector.

Wa National Development Party said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

Of the five papers presented by representatives-elect group, the papers presented by the delegates of the National Unity Party and the Mro or Khami National Solidarity Organization are the same as the ones presented by the delegates of the respective parties in the political parties delegate group.

Representative-elect Dr Hmu Htan of Thantlan Township constituency in Chin State, and Representative-elect U Aung Thein of Ywangan Township constituency in Shan State said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

They said development and environment have interrelations. Close supervision of the regions and states will ensure long-lasting of forests. Thus, the regions and states should be permitted to conserve forests, set up commercial forest plantations, and sell and buy forest products within the framework of the Union law.

Representatives-elect U Tin Win of Kyaiklat Township constituency-2, U Thein Kyi of Taungdwingyi Township constituency-1, U Hla Soe of Minbu Township constituency-2, U Mya Hlaing of Twantay Township constituency-2, U Kyi Win of Mingaladon Township constituency-1 and U Tin Tun Maung of Mingaladon Township constituency-2 said that oil industry covering exploration, production, sales ect. needs a large amount of investment and has trade relations with foreign countries. Moreover, it is important for the State security and economy.

Thus, the inclusion of the industry in Union legislative list is appropriate. But in the areas whose oil production volume is less, legislative power for oil production should be distributed to regions and states without opposing the Union law.

The matter concerning the Union electricity production and distribution should be put on the Union legislative list. For mineral resources that should be mined by regions and states, legislative power should be distributed to them to run the business without going against the Union law. For some sectors of the gem mining business which do not need State management, legislative power should be distributed to regions and states for them to sell and buy gems of less value. Pearl industry should be put on the Union legislative list.

Forest conservation and plantation is required for perpetuation of forests as they play an important role in the national economy. Forests are also helping balance the nature and conserve the environment. Thus, the forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list to enact forestry-related laws covering the whole nation. But large areas of forests can be found in some regions and states, and timber production is one of the main businesses for them. There grow trees for local use other than teak and hardwood. Thus the necessary forest management authority should be distributed to the respective regions and states.

Some regions and states are facing near extinction of wildlife, but some are facing overpopulation problems. Thus a uniformed law in the entire Union will not be effective. Thus, the regions and states concerned should share the task of wildlife conservation.

Representative-elect U Tun Kyaw of Namhsan Township constituency in northern Shan State said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

The national race delegate group said that the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

In giving a separate suggestion, it said the nation has a 1,375-mile long coastline, and the continental shelf is rich in valuable natural resources. Arrangements should be made to extract the riches with the use of advanced technology and equipment.

It added that increase in the number of industries, vehicles, buildings and people may cause air pollution. Thus in extending towns, wards and villages, 25 per cent of their territory should be left vacant for forest plantations parks and recreation centres to prevent air pollution. Hence it said, urban forestation should be included in enacting the forestry law.

Peasant delegate group said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

Worker delegate group said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

Intellectuals and intelligentsia delegate group said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

State service personnel delegate group said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

Other invited persons delegates group said that all the seven points of the energy, electricity, mining and forestry sector should be included in the Union legislative list as detailed basic principles, and all the five points of the sector should be included in the region or state legislative lists as detailed basic principles.

The group said that it has already presented a proposal to put nuclear energy, nuclear fuel and radiation and mineral resources that produce them in energy, electricity and forestry sector. It also gave a suggestion to add the word "technology" in the phrase "nuclear energy, nuclear fuel and radiation and mineral resources that produce them" and a term "conservation and protection of herbal plants, rare plant species and animals facing near extinction" in the energy, electricity and forestry sector.

The State should consider enacting a law to permit regions and states to run small-scale oil and gas industries.

The group presented a proposal to substitute the term "except big and medium electricity production and distribution under the supervision of the Union" with the term "except big electricity production and distribution under the supervision of the Union"; the term "the cutting and polishing of gem stones in the region or state" with the term "exploration, mining, trading, cutting and polishing of gems and holding of gems emporiums in regions and states"; the term "village-owned fuel wood plantations' with the term "village-owned fuel wood plantations, community-owned forest plantations and private forest plantations"; and the term "recreation centres, zoological gardens and botanical gardens" with the term "recreation centres, zoological gardens, botanical gardens, herbal plantations and private forest plantations including teak." In enacting laws, the State should consider the point to permit regions and states the right to run businesses mentioned in the proposed amended terms.

Source: "The New Light Of Myanmar", www.myanmar.com/nlm/

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