What is Tax?
1. A tax is money charged to a taxpayer, an individual or a legal entity, to support government spending and public expenditures. All countries have a tax system in place to pay for the functions of government. In terms of economics, taxation is the compulsory transfer of payment from households or businesses to the government. Taxes comprise direct and indirect taxes. Direct tax is paid to the government directly by the taxpayers such as income tax, corporate tax and property tax. Indirect taxes are levied on goods and services and these are transferable with consumers ultimately paying the tax. Examples of indirect taxes are Sales Tax, Value-added Tax, Goods and Services Tax and Customs Duties. The taxation process involves two primary players, taxpayers and the tax office. The taxpayer is responsible for paying taxes and the tax office is responsible for collecting taxes on behalf of the government.

When did tax start in Myanmar?
2. In Myanmar, during the Bagan dynasty, the citizens paid taxes and the authorities levied taxes. Those duties and responsibilities to levy taxes and pay taxes on both sides were stated in Razabiseka Adeikhtan (oath) and Singaha Taya Lay-pa, which are the basic concepts of taxation administration of Myanmar kings. In the ceremony of the king’s coronation, he was asked to rule his country according to the law and order in receiving public taxes, and in exploiting one-tenth of the public tax and govern his people with justice and mercy. In the periods of Bagan, Sagaing, Pin-ya, Inwa, Toungoo, Nyaung-Yan and Konbaung, taxes were levied throughout the period. The records of collecting taxes can be found in the inscriptions of Bagan. In those periods, paying taxes could be in the form of garments, copper or paddy. However, the rates of tax on land varied from region to region because different production rates depended on different kinds of soil and the attitudes of the local chief who levied taxes. In addition, taxes were collected on different resources such as gold, silver, ruby, topaz, white copper and bronze.
After the British annexation of the whole of Myanmar in 1886, the colonial administration was introduced by the British. Then, Division, Subdivision, Districts, Townships and Villages are divided to administer in Myanmar. In 1888, a financial commissioner was entrusted to control the revenue collection. The revenue collected from the respective townships was submitted to the central treasury in Yangon. The most important taxation under British rule was land tax and other taxes practised in the colonial period include Tha-tha-me-da Tax, Capitation Tax, Excise Tax and Municipal Tax.
After Independence, the Internal Revenue Department was established on 1-10-1972 to develop the new administration system by merging all separate departments. At the time of establishment, IRD collected ten types of tax listed as income tax, profit tax, trade tax, excise tax, Aung Ba Lay Thein Su tax, stamp duty, land tax, water tax and dam tax, In-Ai tax, and mineral tax.
After 1988, when the government changed to a market economy, to make the tax collection system more effective, five types of tax, namely land tax, water tax, embankment tax, excise tax and mineral tax were transferred to the General Administration Department. At the moment, IRD is responsible for collecting five types of taxes, namely income tax, commercial tax, specific goods tax, state lottery tax and stamp duty.

What are the different types of tax systems?
3. Tax systems are structured depending on the ability-to-pay principle. This principle states that taxes should be levied on people according to how well they can carry the burden. Three types of tax are listed as
(i) Proportional taxes
(ii) Regressive taxes
(iii) Progressive taxes
Proportional taxes also known as flat taxes require all taxpayers to pay the same fraction of their income whatever their level of income is. The tax rate doesn’t change whether income increases or decreases. The weak point in proportional taxes is that the gap between the rich and the poor is becoming higher as time passes by. Regressive taxes require high-income taxpayers to pay a smaller fraction of their income than low-income taxpayers. That means as income rises, the tax rate decreases. A regressive tax is practised by countries when collecting indirect taxes. No matter someone’s income level, he or she can purchase the product or services at the same price. Progressive taxes mean when income rises, the tax rate increases which means high-income taxpayers are required to pay a larger fraction of their income than low-income taxpayers. The tax rates differ based on the amount of income with a threshold. Many developing countries practice progressive income tax structures to alleviate poverty by redistributing wealth. Myanmar also practices progressive taxes, which means higher income levels are taxed at increased rates.

Who administers taxes in Myanmar?
4. The Internal Revenue Department is the tax agency which is authorized to collect different types of taxes in Myanmar. The Ministry of Planning and Finance merged the previously independent Profit Tax Department, Commercial Tax Department, Excise Department, State Lottery Department, Stamp Duty Department, Revenue Section of the General Administration Department, and the Office of the Financial Commissioner and originated the Internal Revenue Department on 1 October 1972, to oversee all tax assessments. Two methods of tax collection system practised by IRD are;
(i) Official Assessment System (OAS)
(ii) Self-Assessment System (SAS)
Under the Official Assessment System, the tax office makes assessments based on the facts provided by the taxpayer. That system puts a lot of authority in the hands of a tax officer as the individual tax officer is responsible for taxpayer service, tax audit and tax collection. According to human nature, their reluctance to pay tax out of their pocket, that system could lead to a lot of negotiations between tax authorities and taxpayers. Hence, IRD attempts to put the Self-Assessment System into practice as a part of their reform process. The four tax offices using the Self-Assessment System are the Large Taxpayers’ Office (1), (2) and Medium Taxpayers’ Office (1), (2). The tax collection of these offices is 80 per cent of the total tax collection. In a self-assessment system, taxpayers must calculate the amount of tax due from the income they receive or will receive and pay it within a specified period. In addition, quarterly tax return forms and annual tax return forms must be submitted on time within the prescribed time limit according to law. Taxpayers may request an extension of time if such timely filing is difficult. Taxpayers may inquire about matters related to tax laws in person, in writing, or by telephone at the Taxpayer Service Department of IRD.

What is a Tax Appeal?
5. Tax disputes occur when taxpayers disagree with the assessment order provided by tax authorities. When tax disputes occur, tax appeals become effective. Tax appeal is a common way to resolve any tax disagreements taxpayers have with the tax agency. Under a particular tax law, the right to tax appeal if one is dissatisfied with the assessment order is provided. Thus, tax appeals are a legal process by which taxpayers can challenge tax assessments or decisions made by tax authorities. Tax appeal aims to ensure fairness and accuracy in tax administration.
In the tax appeal process, there are two stages listed as
(i) Internal Review
(ii) External Review
An internal review is a tax appeal process where the dispute is reviewed by officials within the same tax authority or department that made the initial decision. This review is conducted within the tax agency or department and tax authorities reassess the original tax decision. Internal review is often quicker, less formal and cheaper than going through external channels. If the taxpayers reach satisfaction, they are not required to go through an external review. An external review is a tax appeal process which takes place outside the tax authority and involves an independent body or tribunal. If the tax dispute remains unresolved after the internal review, taxpayers can proceed to external review. The external review process is more impartial and formal. The judgment passed by the external body is binding on both the taxpayer and the tax authority. In some countries, the decision passed by such an external body is final and conclusive and in some countries, if the taxpayer remains dissatisfied, he can proceed to the highest jurisdiction in the country.

How was the Revenue Appellate Tribunal formed in Myanmar?
6. In Myanmar, tax appeal was introduced in 1954 and the Income Tax Tribunal was formed under subsection (a) of Section 5 of the Burma Income Tax Act and only income tax appeals were adjudicated at that time. In 1972, the Revenue Appellate Tribunal was formed by Notification 120 dated 23-10-1972 of the Ministry of Planning and Finance with four members including the Chairperson to hear and adjudicate not only income tax appeal cases but also appeals, revisions, reviews and references related to customs duties, excise duties and stamp duties. Subsequently, the Income Tax Tribunal was changed into the Revenue Appellate Tribunal. Later, the Revenue Appellate Tribunal was formed by Notification 12 dated 11-12-1976 of Cabinet in 1976, Notification 6/89 dated 28-7-1989 of Government of the Union of Myanmar in 1989, Notification 54/2017 dated 31-5-2017 of Government of Republic of the Union of Myanmar in 2017 respectively and cases were heard. The Tribunal was formed by Notifications of the Cabinet without legislation and cases were heard for a long time. In 2018, the Revenue Appellate Tribunal bill was submitted and the Law was enacted by Law 23 of Pyidaungsu Hluttaw on 1-8-2018.
7. The Revenue Appellate Tribunal has quasi-judicial power, it is constituted of experts and experienced persons in the fields of law, taxation, accounting and auditing per international standards to adjudicate cases filed to the Tribunal regarding revenues collected by the Union Government and such cases are being heard independently and adjudicated impartially. In the exercise of the power conferred by sub-section (a) of Section 4 of the Revenue Appellate Tribunal Law, the Tribunal comprising eight members including the Chairperson was formed and assigned by the Union Government Notification in 2020.

Which types of cases can be filed to the Tribunal?
8. Four types of cases can be filed to the Tribunal such as appeal, revision, review and reference.
Appeal
Appeal means an appeal filed to the Tribunal against an assessment order passed by any department responsible for collecting internal revenue or by the Customs department or against a final decision on an assessment order made by any government department or organization assigned by the Union Government through a notification from time to time. An appeal may be filed to the Revenue Appellate Tribunal using the form prescribed by the Tribunal within 90 days from the date of the receipt of the said order. Even though filing has not been made during the limitation period, the appeal may be accepted if there is sufficient cause.

Revision
Revision means a case re-filed by an aggrieved person to the Tribunal, to revise, with respect to issues of fact, against the order passed by the Tribunal. Revision may be filed to the Tribunal using the form prescribed by the Tribunal within 60 days from the date of the receipt of the decision of the Tribunal.

Review
Review means a case re-filed to the Tribunal by any person receiving the decision of the Tribunal, to review the decision. The power is conferred upon the Revenue Appellate Tribunal to review its decision under the law. Review may be filed to the Revenue Appellate Tribunal using the form prescribed by the Tribunal within 90 days from the date of the receipt of the decision of the Tribunal. Review may be filed to the Tribunal where there is reasonable ground following Rule 1, Order 47 of the Code of Civil Procedure.

Reference
Reference means a case referred to the Supreme Court of the Union regarding issues of law, after hearing it by the full bench. When the applicant or respondent applies for a reference or any issue arises to refer the case to the Supreme Court of the Union, the full bench shall decide whether it should be referred. Reference may be filed to the Tribunal using the form prescribed by the Tribunal within 60 days from the date of the receipt of the judgment of the Tribunal.

The role of the Revenue Appellate Tribunal
9. Notwithstanding anything in any existing laws, revenue appeals shall be filed and heard only under Revenue Appellate Tribunal Law, which is promulgated in section 41 of the Revenue Appellate Tribunal Law. Thus, an appeal against orders or decisions of all kinds of revenue (taxes, fees, licence fees, permit fees or fines), against all forms of revenue in the schedule (1) of Union Taxation Law and customs duties shall be submitted to the Revenue Appellate Tribunal in line with the rules. Cases submitted to the Tribunal have been heard and adjudicated independently under the law and for cases heard by the Tribunal, the decision on issues of fact is final.
10. To conclude, the location of the Revenue Appellate Tribunal and its office is Office No 57, north of Thirimantine Road, Ottarathiri Township. Anyone willing to file an “appeal”, everyone is welcome to reach the Revenue Appellate Tribunal office. RAT members and its staff have made earnest efforts to prevent revenue loss and provide the best service to every taxpayer. The Revenue Appellate Tribunal has strived to ensure justice, equality, the right of defence and the right of appeal for Myanmar citizens and taxpayers.
References
– The Internal Revenue Department website
– The Revenue Appellate Tribunal website
– Taxpayers’ Perception of Service of the Tax Office Under the Self-Assessment System
– Access to Tax Justice by Michael Walpole
– Revenues of Myanmar in the British Administration
Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

Nowadays, the world is more traumatized by the oppression of various diseases than ever before. The incidence and prevalence of these diseases are on the rise. These can be ascribed to changes in diet and lifestyle, poverty, malnutrition, climatic changes and more stressful situations. In the event of a disease, the public goes to a hospital to seek a cure. When patients and their family members arrive at the hospital, public relations in the hospital commence. In this context, public relations mean a two-way communication process between the hospital and its internal public (all hospital staff) and external public (patients, their families, their communities, and social media, among others). This article focuses on how to improve the public relation between patients and hospital staff.
Hospital staff are obliged to deal with many patients every day. The Emergency Department and the Out-patient Department are two channels through which the hospital staff start their relations with the patients. Therefore, the hospital needs to equip the staff posted in these departments with high social and organizational skills so that people will be willing to attend the hospital without any anxiety in case of a disease.
The Emergency Department is the best resort for seriously ill patients and persons severely wounded due to accidents and disasters. Usually, the minds of patients arriving there are overtaxed with financial constraints, social problems and psychological upset. Therefore, the staff should extend a warm welcome to these sorrow-stricken patients with a sweet smile on their faces. They should not wear a stern face in the presence of patients and their relatives. The staff on duty should be in their uniforms which can boost patients’ confidence in them. Moreover, the staff should be kind, courteous and helpful to patients. The staff should listen to them attentively and deal with their inquiries politely. In addition, the staff should guide them in detail and treat them in an encouraging and consoling manner. The staff should always remember to say “Thank you” to every patient. This can prevent the patients from lodging complaints and creating conflicts. But, if a complaint or a conflict occurs inevitably, the staff should curb his or her emotion, report the issue to the senior staff, find the root cause and negotiate to reach a solution.
In the outpatient department, the medical staff should examine the patients carefully, give them instructions to do necessary investigations and prescribe treatments for them. For the investigations to be done, the attendants of the patients rush to the laboratory and the Radiological Department and wait nervously for the results. For more convenience of the waiting patients there, waiting time should be minimized. Waiting facilities should be supplied adequately. Queue jumping should not be allowed. Waiting areas should be spacious and well-ventilated. There should be enough power and water supply. Clean toilets should be provided sufficiently.
For a patient to be admitted to a ward, the admission procedure should not be cumbersome and over-processed. Unnecessary delay should be avoided. Prompt attention and effective care should be given to him or her. The staff assigned to the ward should respect the dignity of the patient and the confidentiality of the information about his or her disease. Privacy should be given to the patient if necessary. The ward should be furnished with all necessary physical facilities to solace the worried patients and their attendants.
During the hospital stay, the family members and relatives gather round the patient to encourage him or her. So, the need to satisfy the desire of the patient to see the family members and to limit the number of visitors should be balanced. However, enough guest hours should be allowed.
Blood requisition and blood transfusion processes are very important for a patient who is seriously ill and anaemic. The patient’s family members would not tolerate any delay in receiving blood from the blood bank and transfusing blood into the patient. As blood transfusion is a life-saving procedure, all the staff concerned should try to understand and empathize with the patient and his or her family members. Therefore, they should concentrate their attention on doing a timely blood transfusion for the patient; otherwise, it could cost his or her life.
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) should be fully provided with sociable and efficient staff and intensive care facilities. As a rule, only one attendant is allowed for a patient. But, if necessary, the number of attendants should be increased. The ICU staff should keep a close eye on the changing situations of the patient at all times and encourage the attendants as well.
In the process of removing a dead body to the mortuary from a hospital ward, which is a most sensitive case, due respect should be shown to it. The mourning family members should be consoled with sympathy and empathy. The process should be done with the least disturbance to others in the ward. If there is a plan for an autopsy, it should be undertaken immediately after asking permission from a family member or a close relative.
In all dealings with the patients, the hospital staff should be patient-centred. They should be free from bias and discrimination in providing their services. They should always practise optimism, harmony and understanding towards the patients. They should explain to the patients about their diseases. At the same time, they should engage the patients in making decisions regarding their cases.
Today, a hospital is the haunt of the various media. The reporters frequent the hospital to elicit the news of the hospital from the staff. So the hospital staff should take much care in dealing with the questions of the media and, at the same time, they should be on amicable terms with them. To be able to evade the traps laid by shrewd reporters, they should have problem-solving, diplomatic, discourse analytical and public presentation skills.
The hospital staff tend to work more energetically and actively in a happy and pleasant work environment. So, they should be motivated by giving incentives of various forms. These should include good salaries, pay raises, cash rewards, the welfare of employees and their families, different kinds of leave, flexible scheduling, words or letters of appreciation for their performances and achievements, job transfer to a better position, job promotion and opportunities for further education. Only then, would they become motivated staff. The staff would motivate the patients. However, one important point is that the administrative team and heads of the wards should exercise just culture but avoid blaming the staff.
In conclusion, it is observed that the public relation of a hospital depends much upon the efficiency, performance, and attitude of its staff and the physical facilities. Therefore, it is suggested that regular training courses in public relations should be given to all the staff, that a sufficient amount of staff should be appointed, lest the staff would be overloaded with tasks, and that new generations of efficient, industrious and dutiful staff should be recruited regularly. Moreover, a public relations management office should be opened and, at any rate, no stone should be left unturned in undertaking all the measures to improve public relations in the hospital. It is also aware that the motivated, satisfied staff can make the motivated, satisfied patients, that the motivated, satisfied patients can find speedy recovery from their diseases and that, as a consequence, this hospital will be reputed to be a prestigious one among the public. Therefore, this hospital would, undoubtedly, become their choice if the patients, their family members and relatives are afflicted with a certain disease. Hence, it is taken for granted that the promotion of public relations in a hospital can serve as an impetus to its development and good image.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

DO you know what is the one thing every human seeks from the moment they understand what it means to be human until they die? I will give you the infallible answer: it is ‘happiness’. Take a moment to reflect on yourself; you will find that you have also been searching for ‘happiness’ every day and night, and even now, in your current situation, you are still pursuing ‘happiness’.
In childhood, we searched for happiness in playing and eating activities. When we reached adulthood, we sought happiness in our ability to provide for our needs and fulfill our emotional desires. As we age into the later stages of life, with declining health, we build happiness through exercises, medication, and engaging in activities we are passionate about, such as gardening, walking, enjoying music, or finding peace through meditation or religion. We continuously seek ‘happiness’ in ways that suit us best, isn’t that, right?
Here, I want to ask two questions: Have you truly found and felt happiness? Have you achieved satisfaction to the extent that you desire? In fact, you might be surprised to know that the ‘happiness’ we are searching for until the end of our lives is already within us. Please don’t be surprised, my friend. Now, I would like to share with you a study paper about the key points of ‘happiness’ conducted by a group of scientists. They are as follows:
If you were asked the question “What is happiness?”, then what would be your answer? It may be hard for you to come up with a clear-cut answer. Your answer may be different from those of other people. Moreover, the definition of happiness may change over time - today’s view on happiness may be a different one tomorrow. Thus, happiness is a difficult concept to measure, because it is not constant.
According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary (2016), ‘happiness’ means ‘a state of well-being and contentment’. Psychologically, when you are in a peaceful state of mind or when you have no stressful factors to think about, you are most likely to feel relaxed and happy. Whatever you are - a student, a worker, a housewife, or a pensioner, happiness means a better quality of life.
A group of scientists who have examined a number of studies from across the world have suggested ten ways to achieve happiness:
1. Have a good relationship with friends and family
It seems reasonable to assume that what makes people really happy is their relationships with others. Having a wide circle of friends and family is more enjoyable than having a lot of money. In addition, people with large families and lots of close friends are
happier than people who live on their own. Sometimes you may not be in a good mood or may feel depressed. At that time, if you hang out with friends or spend time with your family, your stressful feelings will be released. It has even been suggested that a happy home life and good friends can protect against illness.
2. Love your work and enjoy what you are doing
Some people feel passionate about their work and love what they are doing. In fact, job satisfaction and career success are important factors for your happiness. For example, you tend to achieve happiness when you can accomplish the tasks you have undertaken or when you become prosperous while doing the work you enjoy.
3. Be kind and help others
Treating everyone with kindness is another key element of happiness. Acts of kindness have the potential to make the world a happier place. According to studies by psychologists in different countries, when you help other people, it is not only good for them, it also makes you feel happier. A new survey has also revealed that generous people are happier and healthier than those who are not. The idea is that generosity gives them a nice, warm feeling when people say ‘thank you’ and show appreciation.
4. Don’t be envious of other people
The biggest barrier to happiness is envy, which is a state of desiring other people’s qualities, possessions, opportunities, etc. In your school or workplace, you will find yourself around people who are doing much better than you are. In that case, if you try not to judge yourself against other people, you will certainly be happier. People who are envious of others are more likely to experience negative emotions such as inferiority, dejection and depression. The best thing you should do is try to replace envy with such positive emotions as sympathy or empathetic joy.
5. Have better physical and mental health
Good health also is vital for happiness. It is undeniable that healthy people are happier than those who are not. To achieve true happiness, you must be fit, both physically and mentally - a happy person has better physical and mental health. It is widely known
that your mind and body are closely connected. If you feel stressed out, you are likely to experience fatigue and muscle tension. Similarly, if you feel happy and calm, you are likely to have more mental energy and more physical vitality.
6. Have a feeling of contentment
Contentment is the key to happiness - people who accept what they have are happier than people who crave for more career success and money. A recent survey shows that the simplest things in life are the most important for you. You tend to be happy with simple things, like a walk in a park, a beautiful sunset and an evening with a friend. It is true that people need to have a reasonable amount of material possessions, but wanting more than what is necessary breeds greed and frustration.
7. Get rich
Most people believe that money is the best way to find happiness. Of course, a person needs money to some extent in order to live comfortably. Rich people often consider that they are happy as they can buy expensive houses, new cars, big yachts and designer clothes. However, some people think happiness does not depend on money. Nevertheless, we can see many people trying to get rich in every possible way in the hope of achieving happiness in life.
8. Have a positive attitude to life
It is often said that life is composed of positive elements and negative elements. Having a positive attitude to life is a good way of finding happiness. For example, when you encounter difficulties in your school or work, you may feel disappointed and downhearted. At such a time, you must try to adopt a positive attitude to cope with these problems. You must also learn how to live contentedly with the negative elements of life rather than attempt to live a life where nothing bad ever happens. If you respond very positively to everything that happens, you will surely find happiness.
9. Think back to sweet memories from the past
You may be in a bad mood or feel downhearted from time to time, simply because you are looking inside you, thinking about bad things. A group of psychologists have discovered that thinking back to pleasant incidents in the past can improve your mood and make you more cheerful. For example, think about something in your childhood that gives you great pleasure, look at old photos showing happy events, or recall hearing news of someone’s good fortune. These sweet memories can put you in a better mood -they can make you smile, laugh, or feel joyful.
10. Practise meditation or mindfulness
Nowadays, people may suffer from work-related stress, which leads to severe diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. To reduce stress, people practise meditation, which is also known as mindfulness. The idea is that you find a clean floor, sit still, and pay attention to what is happening to you at that very moment. You should not think about the past or the future, just the present. Meditation will ease the tension in your body, clear your mind of negative thoughts, and give you a sense of inner peace and wellbeing.
Now that you have read the 10 findings of scientists on ‘happiness’, you should see that ‘happiness’ is an inherent value within us. It is our own mind that makes us unhappy. Once you understand this and apply it, for example, by practising the concept in point four or using the principles in points two or eight, you will find there is nothing more you need for ‘happiness’. You will have built complete ‘happiness’. People often overlook what is too close to them, like the saying goes, “too close to see.” It is unfortunate that we do not develop the virtues within us and instead, search for ‘happiness’ outside until the end of our lives. So, from today onwards, I encourage you to just be happy.

Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar

THE military is often viewed primarily as a force for national defence and security. However, its contributions extend far beyond the battlefield. The military not only produces disciplined and skilled soldiers but also plays a significant role in the cultural, social, and economic development of a nation. One notable example is Kyaw Swe, a former soldier who became a celebrated actor in Myanmar. Now, let me explore the various ways in which the military contributes to the country, highlighting its role in producing good citizens and fostering talent in diverse fields. 

The military is a place where disciplined and skilled soldiers are trained. Soldiers learn to follow rules, stay focused, and complete their duties with care. The military provides tough training that builds both physical strength and mental focus. It also teaches important skills, such as teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. At the same time, soldiers develop strong moral values and good character. They learn honesty, loyalty, and respect for others, which are important qualities for any person. These values help soldiers not only in their military duties but also in their personal lives, making them good soldiers and responsible individuals. 

Kyaw Swe is a great example of a military member who made significant contributions to the arts. Before becoming a famous actor, he served in the military, where he gained discipline, courage, and a strong sense of responsibility. These qualities played an important role in his success as an artist. Military training helps develop focus, determination, and resilience, which can enhance artistic talents. For Kyaw Swe, the discipline and leadership he learned in the army allowed him to create meaningful and powerful films that inspired many people. His life shows how military experience can help individuals succeed in the world of art and culture. Here, the readers will see his great talents. 

Kyaw Swe, a famous actor, was known for his roles in action, romance, and natural-themed films. However, he directed only one war film, “Pearl Tears”, which became a very popular movie. Because of his experience as a soldier, Kyaw Swe faced no difficulties in directing this war film. The movie became so successful that it left a remarkable mark in Myanmar’s film history. 

Although Kyaw Swe acted in many films with actress Khin Yu May, “Pearl Tears” was considered their best work together. Their performances in the movie were so perfect that their on-screen chemistry reached new heights. Kyaw Swe was a talented and outstanding actor, admired by many in the Myanmar film industry. Unfortunately, despite his skills, he never won an Academy Award. His expressions and actions spoke louder than words, showcasing deep meaning and emotion. 

Kyaw Swe was born in Bago on 10 February 1924, a Sunday. His birth name was Maung Aung Thein, and his parents affectionately called him “Mauni”. He was the third child out of five siblings. His father, U Ba Hnit, was a government officer, and his mother, Daw Ohn Sein, was a homemaker. When his family moved to Yangon, he attended ABM School in Kyimyindine Township until the second grade. He later continued his studies at St John’s School for Boys, where he passed the tenth grade in 1942. 

Early Life as a Soldier 

During the colonial period, Maung Aung Thein joined the British Royal Air Force and trained in Myitkyina. When World War II broke out, he walked from Myitkyina to Bago with a group of seven companions. Along the way, five of them died, leaving only him and one other to survive. Once he returned to Bago, he joined the Burma Independence Army (BIA) with a strong patriotic spirit. He served under Captain Bala as a sergeant major. After the BIA was reorganized into the Burma Defense Army (BDA), he continued to serve as an officer. 

During the Japanese occupation, he worked as a police officer in Moulmein (Mawlamyine) and Bago while secretly op posing the Japanese. He joined the resistance movement and fought against fascism. After the war, he planned to attend a police officer training course in Mandalay. However, his friends convinced him to pursue a career in acting instead. 

Beginning of Acting Career

Kyaw Swe struggled during his early days in the film industry. He faced many challenges in becoming a film actor. After several attempts, he met director U Tin Nwe, who introduced him to U Ba Shin of British Burma Films. U Ba Shin admired his handsome looks and confident personality. However, U Ba Shin set a unique condition: Kyaw Swe had to dive from the roof top of a three-story building to qualify as the second lead actor. Kyaw Swe agreed. 

At that time, Director U Ba Shin was filming “Saw Ya San Sha” in Mandalay with lead actor Tin Pe and actress May Myint. A One and British Burma Films had a habit of coming up with unique ways to film movies, so U Ba Shin organized a casting event by having people dive from the rooftop of a three-storey building in downtown Mandalay to generate public interest in his ongoing movie. Among the excited audience was a young man named Maung Aung Thein. When it was his turn, he bravely dived from the rooftop and landed gracefully on the ground, impressing U Ba Shin. Consequently, U Ba Shin chose him as the second lead actor and gave him the stage name “Kyaw Swe”. From that moment on, Maung Aung Thein became known as the actor Kyaw Swe. 

Success in Film 

Kyaw Swe was passionate about improving Myanmar’s film industry. In 1969, he went to Japan to study filmmaking. After returning from Japan, he wrote scripts, acted, and directed his films, establishing his own film production company, “Moe Films”. One of the notable films produced by his company was “Pearl Tears”. This film was a large-scale production focused on the Anti-Chinese Riots, co-starring with actress Khin Yu May. Kyaw Swe’s films were known for their emphasis on cinematography, resulting in visually stunning scenes that were vibrant and expressive. Throughout his career, Kyaw Swe acted with many famous actresses such as May Shin, May Myint, Mary Myint, May Thit, Myint Myint Khin, San Shar Tin, Tin Tin Mu, Hnin Hsi, Khin Lay Swe, Khin Nann Myint, and Khin Yu May. Most of his later films were produced with Khin Yu May as his co-star. 

Moreover, Kyaw Swe was a former soldier, and his military experience greatly enhanced his acting skills. Having served in the military, he brought a deep sense of realism and authenticity to his roles, which was evident in every performance. His disciplined approach and the intensity he conveyed in his characters made his portrayals stand out. He was not just playing a role; he was bringing his own life experiences into his work, which resonated deeply with audiences.

In the movie “Pearl Tears”, Kyaw Swe’s portrayal of a soldier was nothing short of remarka ble. The film, which dealt with significant themes and dramatic scenes, required a strong and believable performance, and Kyaw Swe delivered just that. His depiction of the character’s struggles and resilience was powerful and moving. Even as a child, I remember being truly captivated by his performance, which was both convincing and compelling.

Kyaw Swe’s military back ground not only made him a seasoned actor but also brought a sense of authenticity to his roles. His ability to convincingly portray a soldier in “Pearl Tears” is a testament to his talent and dedication. His performances were not just acts; they were re flections of his own experiences and understanding. This depth and realism made a lasting impression on me and undoubtedly on many others who watched his films.

In 1976, while filming “Saturday Night, 9 pm” with director Ye Baw Thet Shay, Kyaw Swe got a stroke. He passed away on 15 August 1982, at the age of 58. He appeared in 52 films throughout his career. Beyond his artistic contributions, Kyaw Swe was a patriot who fought for Myanmar’s independence. He remains a highly respected figure in both Myanmar’s film and history. 

In brief, Kyaw Swe’s life that had much experience in military service, and career serve as a remarkable example of dedication, talent, and patriotism. From his early days as a soldier to his success in the film industry, he demonstrated the values of discipline, resilience, and a deep love for his country. His contributions to both Myanmar’s independence and its cultural heritage have left a lasting impact. Kyaw Swe’s story inspires us to recognize the potential of individuals to excel in multiple fields and reminds us of the profound connection between discipline and creativity. His legacy continues to be celebrated, making him a true hero and a symbol of national pride. 

Confession: (Writing in memory of (U) Kyaw Swe is special to me because my late father bore a striking resemblance to the famous actor (U) Kyaw Swe.)

Source: Global New Light of Myanmar

AS the clock passes midnight on 31 December, we offer farewell to 2024 and open our arms to embrace the New Year 2025. This transition is more than just a change in the calendar; it is a moment of reflection, hope, and celebration. The New Year offers us a clean slate, a chance to realign our goals, rekindle our dreams, and move forward with renewed determination.

Welcoming a new year is a universal tradition, celebrated in countless ways across the globe. From amazing fireworks displays to intimate family gatherings, the world unites in joy, gratitude, and optimism. The arrival of 2025 serves as a reminder that time is both precious and fleeting, urging us to cherish every moment and make the most of what lies ahead.

The New Year is also a time to reflect on the past. It allows us to pause and review the successes and challenges of the previous year. Every achievement, no matter how small, is evidence of our resilience and effort. Meanwhile, setbacks provide lessons that guide us toward better decisions and greater strength. In this spirit of contemplation, we enter 2025 not only with hope but also with wisdom gained from our experiences.

What makes 2025 particularly special is the promise of new beginnings. It is a chance to set fresh goals and aspirations, whether they involve personal growth, professional advancement, or nurturing relationships. As we write our resolutions and envision the year ahead, we are filled with a sense of purpose and determination. The start of a new year inspires us to dream big, step out of our comfort zones, and pursue the changes we have long desired.

Furthermore, the New Year brings with it the joy of connection. Families, friends, and communities come together to celebrate the occasion, sharing laughter, love, and goodwill. This sense of unity and togetherness is at the heart of the New Year’s spirit, reminding us that we are never alone in our journey. The words we strengthen during this time give us the courage and motivation to face the challenges of the year ahead.

As we warmly welcome 2025, let us do so with gratitude for the opportunities it brings. Let us focus on spreading kindness, fostering positivity, and making meaningful contributions to our world. Together, we can make this year a remarkable one, filled with moments of joy, progress, and fulfilment.

Bright and Beautiful 2025! May it be a year of good opportunities and lasting happiness for all.

Source: Global New Light of Myanmar

Choosing between a desktop computer and a laptop can be a challenging decision. Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, and the choice largely depends on an individual’s needs and preferences. Therefore, let us explore the differences between desktop computers and laptops in terms of cost, convenience, and style to help you make an informed decision. 

One of the primary factors to consider when choosing between a desktop and a laptop is the cost. Desktop computers are generally more affordable than laptops with similar specifications. This is because desktops do not need the same portability features as laptops. Manufacturers can focus on enhancing performance over compactness, which often results in a lower price for desktops with powerful hardware. Additionally, upgrading individual components, such as RAM or storage, is usually cheaper for desktops. This makes them more cost-effective in the long run.

 On the other hand, laptops, especially high-performance or ultra-portable models, often come with a higher price tag due to their compact, lightweight design. The portability of laptops also means that repairs and upgrades can be more expensive, as components are smaller and more specialized. Therefore, while desktops are initially more budget-friendly, laptops may offer added value through their flexibility and portability, depending on the user’s needs. 

Another important factor to consider is the convenience of use. Laptops are inherently more convenient than desktops due to their portability. Users can easily carry laptops between home, office, and even public spaces, allowing for flexibility in where and how they work or study. This mobility suits people who often travel or need to work in multiple locations. 

Desktops, on the other hand, are fixed in one place, making them ideal for those who do not require mobility and prefer a dedicated workspace. However, desktops offer other conveniences, such as larger screens, ergonomic setups, and the ability to connect multiple peripherals simultaneously. These factors can enhance productivity, especially for professionals requiring powerful hardware for graphic design or video editing tasks. In summary, while laptops offer portability and flexibility, desktops provide a more stable and customizable setup for specific tasks. 

In addition, there is the subject of style. When it comes to style, laptops, and desktops offer different aesthetics and appeal to different preferences. Laptops tend to have a sleek, modern look, with brands often focusing on slim designs, lightweight frames, and high-quality finishes to attract users who value style and portability. Many laptops come in various colours and finishes, allowing users to choose one that suits their personal tastes. 

Desktops, however, tend to be bulkier and less portable, with larger cases and multiple components. Despite this, desktops offer more customization options, such as LED lighting, transparent cases, and various add-ons that appeal to users who want a unique setup. In essence, laptops cater to those who prioritize minimalism and mobility, while desktops at tract users who prefer a customizable, robust setup that reflects their individuality. 

Apart from cost, convenience, and style, performance is another key aspect to consider. Generally, desktops have an edge over lap tops in terms of performance. This is because desktops can house larger and more powerful components, such as CPUs and GPUs, without the limitations of space and cooling that laptops face. For tasks that require high processing power, like gaming, video editing, or 3D rendering, desktops are usually the better choice.

 Laptops, while improving in performance, still cannot match the raw power of desktops. However, for everyday tasks like browsing, writing, or watching videos, modern laptops are more than sufficient. The trade-off in performance is often balanced by the benefits of portability and ease of use that laptops offer.

 What is more, the choice between a desktop computer and a laptop depends on various factors, including cost, convenience, style, and performance. Desktops are generally more affordable and offer better performance, especially for high-demand tasks, but they lack portability. Laptops, on the other hand, are portable and stylish, providing flexibility and convenience for users who need to work on the go. They are, however, more expensive and may not offer the same level of performance as desktops. 

Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and specific needs. If you require a powerful machine for demanding tasks and do not need to move it frequently, a desktop might be the best choice. If you value portability and flexibility and are willing to invest a bit more, a laptop could be the ideal option. Both desktops and laptops have their unique advantages, and understanding these can help you make the best decision for your computing needs.

 In today’s world, portable devices have become more popular, changing how people work, study, and communicate. Both laptops and desktops can do similar tasks, but many people now prefer laptops because they are easy to carry and use in different places. This change in preference shows that people want devices that fit their busy, on-the-go lifestyles. Although desktops have some advantages, the popularity of laptops is mainly due to their portability, versatility, and ability to meet the needs of modern users. 

One main reason people choose laptops over desktops is portability. Laptops are lightweight and compact, allowing users to take them almost anywhere – to a café, library, or even on a trip. This flexibility is valuable for students, professionals, and freelancers who need to work in different places. Unlike desktops, which need a fixed setup with a monitor and other parts, laptops are made work well in various settings. For example, a student can carry a laptop from home to campus, accessing their work easily wherever they go. 

Another reason is that laptops can run on batteries, which makes them usable even without a power outlet nearby. Desktops need to stay plugged in to work, but laptops can last several hours on a single charge. This is very useful in places where power is not always available or where there are power outages. In areas with frequent power cuts, laptops allow students and workers to continue working without interruptions. In developing regions, laptops provide a way for people to stay connected and productive even when electricity is limited. 

Advances in technology have also made laptops more powerful and useful for different tasks. In the past, people thought desktops were better for demanding tasks like gaming or graphic design. However, many laptops today can handle these tasks well. With powerful processors, good graphics, and large storage, laptops are now capable of managing various professional tasks. Industries like graphic design and data analysis now often use laptops in their daily work. Gaming laptops, for example, show that laptops can meet high-performance needs that were once only possible with desktops. 

The space-saving design of laptops is another reason why people prefer them. Desktops need a large setup space and can create clutter with multiple parts, but laptops are compact and include everything in one unit. This makes them ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or shared offices. Laptops also have a sleek, modern look that many people find attractive. In homes with limited space, laptops offer a practical solution without taking up much room. 

While laptops have clear advantages, some people still prefer desktops for specific reasons. Desktops allow for greater customization, making it easy for users to upgrade parts like the processor, memory, or graphics card. This is especially useful for gamers, software developers, and others who need high performance and want to keep their computers up-to-date over time. Desktops also offer better cooling systems because they have more space for fans and airflow, which helps avoid overheating during heavy tasks like gaming or video editing. These qualities make desktops a strong choice for users who need high levels of performance. 

However, for the average user, the convenience and flexibility of laptops are more important than these extra features. Most people do not need such high levels of customization and cooling, especially with modern laptops becoming more powerful and capable of handling everyday tasks. As technology improves, laptops are closing the gap with desktops in terms of performance, making desktops less necessary even for some intensive tasks. 

Furthermore, the shift from desktops to laptops reflects the modern need for devices that are portable, flexible, and easy to use. Laptops provide these qualities, making them a good fit for both work and personal use. Desktops have their strengths, especially for users with specific needs, but laptops now meet the needs of most users better, making them the preferred choice. As technology advances, laptops will likely continue to improve, making desktops even less necessary for most people. 

The paragraphs above reflect the general perceptions people have about desktops and laptops. Now, I’d like to share my perspective and personal feelings. I am truly a “desktop enthusiast”. This admiration for desktops has been with me for a long time. However, my very first computer was just an old laptop. After using that laptop for about two years, I eventually managed to buy a desktop, and I loved it! 

But a few years ago, I had to let go of my reliance on my desktop. This was due to the limited electricity access in my area; we only had power for about two to four hours during the day. In that situation, using a desktop became impractical, so I switched to using a laptop instead: which lasted for about four years. Now, I can say that I’ve come to appreciate and even love my laptop. With that, I’ll end this long message.

Source : GNLM

NO ONE can stand alone in society. As living beings, humans inherently need to foster friendships and seek meaningful partnerships. In fact, individuals are not always saints or enlightened beings – those considered the noblest in various religions – who can maintain sincerity at all times. Our mindsets change constantly, and therefore, no one can guarantee that an individual can sustain genuine fraternity based on sincerity forever.

Forging genuine friendship among individuals

The term “genuine friendship” may seem unfamiliar to some people. In reality, genuine friendship can often be intertwined with insincere actions from those who feign a positive mindset in society while their true intentions are not sincere. Their motivations may be rooted in deceitful behaviours, and they do not seek to cultivate meaningful partnerships with others. Such actions are detrimental to social relationships. Unfortunately, those who advocate for the necessity of genuine friendship may sometimes fall victim to these deceitful individuals.

This topic does not focus on wanting to express genuine friendship between one person and another. Rather, it aims to address the insincerity often present, especially among young people, who might pretend to be friendly with someone they actually have romantic feelings for.

For example, some guys pretend to be friendly with some girls in an attempt to propose their love to those girls one day. So, those guys initiate their movements before proposing their love for girls. It can be said that their actions are not sincere for friendship.

Those males and females culturing so-called friendliness are not concerned with this topic.

The main point is that when two people become friends, regardless of whether they are of the same gender or different genders – they may be a male and another male or, a male and a female or a female and another female. In this case, it is important for them to have a sincere attitude towards each other.

It is very important that between individuals, there should be no exploitation of each other’s weaknesses, no harsh criticisms, and a focus on helping and supporting one another. In fact, it is public ethics for all. Actually, such public ethics are being practised in Myanmar’s society. It is important to respect each other and work together. If everybody has a good relationship, they should monitor the expectations somebody set for each other. Anybody should not act in ways that harm their friend’s interests. If you discover any harm to someone’s interests, you should speak up to prevent it. You should also avoid making negative comments. Even if you encounter misunderstandings from your friends regarding your actions, you must have the courage to intervene and prevent them from making mistakes or straying onto the wrong path for their own sake. Importantly, genuine friends must uphold a concept that they must dare to serve the interests of each other, avoiding inappropriate actions, pretending, one-sided exploitation and influence, and having no hegemony attitude.

Fake friendliness

Some people, who are only focused on finding weaknesses and exploiting them tend to jump at opportunities to enhance their own interests while overlooking the good of their friends. Those individuals will eventually end up on a list of friends to avoid. You will know for yourself where you belong on that list. In reality, friendship is a secondary relationship in life. Siblings and family are the primary connections, no matter how bad things may get. Blood ties are unbreakable. Friendship is formed after surpassing those familial bonds, making it a secondary relationship.

The title ‘unscrupulous friends’ is harsh, but it is difficult to find a better term for them. Everyone should avoid friends like this. In truth, they should not even be called ‘friends’, as that word does not fit people like them. They are more like enemies, as they are close enough to cause harm or threats to those they claim to befriend, lacking sincerity and loyalty. As those unfaithful friends cannot be compared with genuine friends, the status of those persons who lack loyalty is very far from the family members. Indeed, even family members with bad attitudes are better than those disloyal friends.

Good friendliness

In reality, everyone has experienced that having a true friend can be more reassuring and dependable than having blood relatives. Good friends are those who, despite being very close for years, are always ready to help you in times of need. I want to challenge the saying that having one enemy is enough when you have a hundred friends. Instead, I want to say that having a true friend is far more valuable than having a hundred enemies; with a true friend, you can truly enjoy life.

Actually, no one can be fully defined forever. Generally, it is true that disloyal and insincere friends are a danger to genuine friendship. On the other hand, true friends are dependable as well as reliable, standing by their partners in times of emergency and trouble. These loyal friends are ready to give a helping hand to their partners in any situation, even when facing difficulties themselves. If you want to know the character of true friends, you should look for them during times of crisis. True friends will prove to be better than siblings. If you have a true friend, consider yourself lucky.

Living a thousand miles apart A true friend is someone with whom you may live a thousand miles apart, yet your hearts are very close. Even though there are many people around you, we live in a time where there are often those who only watch to take advantage of you or bring you harm.

Though living more than a thousand miles apart, two faithful friends remain connected through shared thoughts and perceptions. Despite the distance, they prioritize staying informed about each other to offer support whenever needed. Their help is given freely, without any expectation of return, as a form of sacrifice. Both deeply understand each other’s minds and souls, always seeing opportunities to assist their friends as acts of kindness. The actions of true friends may seem strange to those who are used to exploiting opportunities for selfish gain.

Sacrifices in friendship If you truly cherish your friendships, you cannot just take advantage of them without consideration. You should think about how you can bring benefits to your friends. Always keep an ear open to their circumstances and be ready to help in times of need.

You should reflect on what you have already given to your friends. It is important to be content with the sacrifices you make for their well-being. For friends who have a mutual desire to support each other, life’s journey will be filled with joy and blessings.

In this regard, the acts of sacrifice between two true friends are endless, rooted in esprit de corps. In genuine friendship, true friends never keep track of the gratitude they owe each other, but they always remember the gratitude of others. They strive daily to find the right moment to repay these debts of gratitude. This is a beautiful concept for all humanity and societies. If everyone upheld this kind of moral integrity, society would flourish with prosperity, peace, and happiness, and conflicts and wars could be avoided.

Ethics in friendship 

There is one more thing. If friendships are genuine, you should be aware of and avoid any deceitful or manipulative behaviours towards each other. Making something non-existent seem real is truly shameful. Manipulation is the work of weak individuals. If friends start speaking deceitfully to one another, it shows that the one doing so is genuinely unfulfilled. You should also reflect on whether the words you say come off as manipulative. Why? It is because manipulation can lead to emotional turmoil. The consequence is that it can cause friends to feel disappointed and hurt.

In this case, I would like to share one of my experiences with all of you. Around 2001, while I was working in Mandalay, I had a friend. At the time, I thought we shared the same mindset. He was very skilled at his job but was constantly boasting. He always

sought to gain privileges over me in various ways and never contributed to shared expenses.

For instance, whenever we had snacks or tea, he never offered to pay. However, I overlooked this because his salary was lower than mine.

Over time, he began trying to dominate us and interfere in my affairs. He consistently showcased his own strengths but never acknowledged the accomplishments of others. I realized that he was jealously competing with me in all aspects, even though his position at the workplace was lower than mine, he was also younger than me. As a result, I gradually became disappointed by his inappropriate behaviours.

One day, he called me at midnight. When I answered, he bragged – without any real reason– that his wife had been selected to go abroad. Despite usually avoiding calls to save money, he had no problem disturbing my sleep to boast about his wife’s trip. How ironic! Generally, he never called others when he did not have any reasons for boasting. I had experienced similar occurrences of his inappropriate actions several times. When I could no longer tolerate his behaviours, I cut off all contact with him, and we have not spoken since.

Understanding inappropriate acts and words However, if true friendships really exist, then there is no reason for such deceitful behaviours to occur. Those who understand how certain actions and words can impact genuine friendships will consciously avoid them. If manipulation does happen, it is common for one friend to forgive the other, as both sides may have experienced it themselves.

In fact, forgiveness and patience are still essential qualities in relationships among true friends, even if they are not explicitly stated. Nevertheless, you may have also observed that these qualities of forgiveness and patience are rarely taken for granted among genuine friends.

In fact, intentional or unintentional acts of boasting and deceit may sometimes occur between two friends. These actions can be analyzed based on the context of their conversations. True friends, however, are open with each other and regularly reflect on their behaviour to ensure it is not perceived as boasting. This self-awareness is simply part of being true friends. Daily interactions between them continue, and in summary, both are keen to preserve their strong bond by avoiding any inappropriate actions or words.

Self-analysis on having honesty in friendship 

In this case, honesty in friendship means that when friends come together, they should be free of expectations and hidden agendas. If people can genuinely relate to each other without deceit, then true friends can emerge. If this doesn’t happen, then friendships may only exist at a superficial level, like fleeting appearances of characters in a movie. You might find yourself in a situation where your friendships are just passing acquaintances instead of genuine connections. You can also reflect on what type of friend you are and how you contribute to those relationships.

In this fleeting human existence, where we only have a moment like a bubble, I hope that everyone encounters true friends and builds genuine relationships. May you also be able to embrace your friends with the spirit of true friendship.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar

I had already heard about the upcoming census a few months ago, so it wasn’t surprising. However, my son and daughter found it quite unusual. They had never personally experienced a census before. Because the term “census” in Myanmar translates to “Than Gaung”, which implies midnight, they assumed the census officials would come in the evening, knocking on the door to collect data. I had to explain to them that this wasn’t the case.

A day before the census collection, some responsible officials came to distribute a booklet to every household, informing us about the types of questions that would be asked on census day. I refer to it as a booklet because it wasn’t just a single page but several – around twenty pages  bound together like a small booklet. After receiving it, I took the time to read through it. I won’t go into detail about the individual pages, but I will outline the main sections.

The booklet contained nine sections:

1. Population information

2. Internal migration

3. Educational background

4. Workforce participation

5. Birth data

6. Disability information

7. International migration

8. Housing data

9. Deaths and maternal mortality

The booklet contained 18 pages in total, and I noticed that the questions were quite numerous. From my estimation, it could take at least 45 minutes to an hour to complete all the questions and fill in the forms for a single household. The officials informed us that they would come back the next day to conduct the census and left after that.

The following day, 4 October, I started expecting the census visitors as early as 8 am. However, no one arrived in the morning. It wasn’t until the afternoon that I saw a bit of activity. Around 3 pm, census officials appeared around our neighbourhood. At that point, we also heard some additional news – some high-ranking officials would visit a few houses on our street and take photos and video footage as part of the process. However, in the end, no high-ranking officials came.

I continued waiting, and at around 10 minutes to 6 pm, a group of six people, including one young woman and five men, arrived at my gate. The men were older, while the young woman appeared to be about 20 years old. She explained that they had come to conduct the census. I invited them into the living room where I had prepared seats and a table, but the young woman declined, saying she would just ask the questions from the doorway.

The young woman held a seven-inch tablet in her hand and began asking the questions. I had my household registration and identity cards ready and answered her questions. The questions were the same ones I had studied in the booklet the day before, but not all of them were asked. It seemed like she was only asking for the essential information. As far as I can recall, the questions included my name and age, my children’s names and ages, their educational qualifications, how many rooms we had in the house, what type of water we used for drinking, and whether we had any family members living abroad. There were far fewer questions than I had expected, but I assumed they only asked what was necessary. One thing that stood out was that the young woman’s tablet seemed to have some kind of software installed, as she typed in my responses and tapped on her tablet six or seven times for each question.

The entire process took only about 10 minutes, and the census collection was complete. One of the men who had accompanied her placed a sticker on the door before they left. After they left, my son and daughter came over and asked a lot of questions, each sharing their thoughts about the experience, as this was something they had never encountered before. I then explained the whole process to them as best as I could to help them understand what had just happened.

Census-taking is a vital practice carried out to understand the demographic composition of a country. In Myanmar, this activity is especially significant, as it helps to track population changes, monitor social development, and provide accurate data for resource distribution. Recently, census officers visited my home to collect important information as part of the nationwide effort. This visit, like many others across the country, is a small but critical step in the larger goal of obtaining a comprehensive snapshot of the population. The data collected during these visits holds great significance for the future of Myanmar, ensuring that accurate statistics guide national decision-making and planning.

Census collection in Myanmar has a long history, dating back to the British colonial period when the first official census was con- ducted in 1872. Over the years, the practice has evolved, reflecting the changing social and political landscape of the country. While the early censuses were primarily aimed at understanding the economic productivity and administrative divisions under colonial rule, today’s census serves much broader purposes. Modern censuses in Myanmar are now conducted with international standards, focusing on aspects such as gender equality, ethnic diversity, and social well-being. This historical progression underscores how far Myanmar has come in utilizing census data to reflect the realities of its population.

During the census, officers collect various types of data that go far beyond simple headcounts. Information such as age, gender, marital status, education level,

occupation, and even household facilities are documented. Each of these data points plays a crucial role in forming a complete picture of the nation’s demographic composition. For example, knowing the number of school-age children can help the government plan for future educational needs, while understanding employment statistics can guide economic development strategies. The accuracy and reliability of this data are essential because they inform the government on issues such as infrastructure development, healthcare provisions, and social welfare programmes.

The data collected through the census has a direct influence on government policies and resource allocation. Once processed, the results help identify where investments in public services are needed most. For example, regions with high population densities may require additional schools, hospitals, or roads, while areas with ageing populations might benefit from more healthcare facilities. Furthermore, census data is critical in addressing social inequalities. By analyzing the information, the government can pinpoint areas where minority communities or underprivileged groups may be underrepresented and implement targeted policies to address these disparities. Ultimately, the census ensures that resources are distributed fairly and effectively, allowing Myanmar to build a more equitable and prosperous future for all its citizens.

The current census collection across Myanmar provides a rare opportunity to engage with the country’s changing demographic landscape. For many, like my children, this is their first encounter with the process. It highlights the generational gap in understanding how such vital information is collected and its broader purpose. The way people interact with census officials, and the expectations they hold, show a mix of curiosity and unfamiliarity, reminding us how important it is to raise public awareness about such activities. This unfamiliarity emphasizes the need for continuous public education on the importance of data collection, transparency, and how it directly benefits their community.

The method of data collection, using technology like tablets, also shows the significant progress Myanmar has made in modernizing its census practices. Moving away from paper forms and embracing digital tools not only speeds up the process but also increases the accuracy of the information collected. While the shift to digital tools was noticeable, it also sparked conversations about privacy and data security

among those unfamiliar with such technology. This balance between modern methods and public trust remains a key issue that needs to be addressed in future census activities.

The experience of participating in a census raises broader questions about national development and the role each citizen plays in shaping the country’s future. Every household, regardless of size or status, contributes to the overall understanding of Myanmar’s social and economic standing. From collecting basic demographic details to more intricate data like international migration and household amenities, the census serves as a mirror reflecting the nation’s progress. It also opens a dialogue about where improvements are needed and how collective data can lead to more effective governance and equitable resource distribution.

As Myanmar continues its nationwide census activities, the importance of such efforts cannot be overstated. The data collected will not only inform immediate governmental decisions but will also shape long-term strategies for sustainable development. By ensuring that all voices are counted, the census provides a critical foundation for addressing the diverse needs of the population, bridging social inequalities, and fostering a more inclusive future. In this way, the census acts as a guiding tool for national progress, reminding us all that every individual contribution helps to paint a more accurate picture of Myanmar’s path forward. After listening to my long explanation, my children smiled at me and revealed their thanks.

Source- www.moi.gov.mm

Myanmar has a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and diverse ethnic groups, and it offers a unique opportunity to develop an integrated travel and tourism approach that can benefit local communities and provide an enriching experience for local travellers and tourists. Integrated travel and tourism in Myanmar can be considered promoted through several vital aspects, and the following are some all-inclusive steps to approach these considerations;

1. Market Research and Analysis

- Identify Target Markets: Determine who the potential tourists are (domestic, regional, international) and what their preferences and needs are.

- Competitive Analysis: Study other countries with successful integrated tourism models to understand best practices and potential challenges.

- SWOT Analysis: Conduct a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis of Myanmar’s tourism sector.

2. Sustainable Tourism Development

- Environmental Conservation: Implement policies that protect natural resources and promote eco-friendly tourism. Encourage practices like waste management, conservation of wildlife, and protection of natural habitats.

- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Ensure that tourism activities do not harm historical sites and cultural landmarks. Work with local communities to maintain and showcase their traditions and customs.

- Community Involvement: Engage local communities in tourism planning and development to ensure their needs and perspectives are considered.

3. Infrastructure Development

- Transport: Improve accessibility to tourist destinations by enhancing roads, airports, and public transport systems. Consider developing sustainable transport options like electric buses or bikes.

- Accommodation and Facilities: Upgrade existing hotels, resorts, and other accommodation facilities to meet international standards. Promote the development of eco-lodges and community-based homestays.

4. Community Engagement

- Local Involvement: Engage local communities in tourism planning and decision-making processes. Provide training and capacity-building programmes to help them benefit economically from tourism.

- Empowerment: Encourage local entrepreneurship by supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the tourism sector, such as local guides, artisans, and food vendors. 5. Combined Tourism Packages

- Thematic Tours: Develop themed travel packages (e.g., cultural tours, adventure tours, eco-tours) that integrate various attractions and activities.

- Multi-Destination Tours: Create tours that connect different regions and highlight the diversity of Myanmar, such as combining urban experiences with rural and natural attractions.

- Collaborative Partnerships: Work with local businesses, tour operators, and international agencies to create comprehensive packages that offer diverse experiences.

6. Marketing and Promotion

- Branding: Develop a strong brand identity for Myanmar as a unique and attractive travel destination. Highlight its diverse culture, rich history, and natural beauty.

- Digital Presence: Utilize social media, websites, and other digital platforms to promote tourism. Offer virtual tours and interactive experiences to attract international tourists.

- Trade Shows and Exhibitions: Participate in international travel and tourism fairs to promote Myanmar as a travel destination.

7. Partnerships and Collaboration

- Public-Private Partnerships: Foster collaborations between government bodies, the private sector, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to pool resources and expertise.

- International Cooperation: Work with international tourism organizations and neighbouring countries to create regional travel packages and joint promotional activities.

8. Policy and Regulation

- Regulatory Framework: Establish clear policies and regulations that govern tourism activities, ensuring they are sustainable and beneficial to local communities.
- Incentives: Provide incentives for businesses and investors who adopt sustainable practices and contribute to local development.

9. Education and Training

- Skill Development: Offer education and training programmes for individuals seeking careers in tourism and hospitality. Focus on areas like customer service, language skills, and sustainable tourism practices.

- Awareness Campaigns: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate tourists and locals about the importance of preserving the environment and respecting cultural heritage.

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

- Impact Assessment: Regularly assess the impact of tourism on the environment, economy, and local communities. Use these assessments to make informed decisions and adjustments.

- Feedback Mechanisms: Establish channels for tourists and locals to provide feedback on tourism services and experiences, using this feedback to improve offerings.

In addition, Myanmar can develop a robust travel and tourism sector that leverages its unique strengths and offers meaningful experiences for visitors. By focusing on the above-mentioned areas, Myanmar can develop and promote an integrated travel and tourism industry that is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial to both visitors and local communities as well as for our country.

Source- The Global New Light of Myanmar