Tuesday, July 31, 2012

A sky high property market

OH my God!!!!!! What happened to me? I am just shouting for surprise. What make me surprise? It is a price list given by a property agent in last Sunday Myanmar property road show. I was talking so much to marketing staff without checking the price list first. I thought that some property rate would be reachable for a person who is working in a developed nation. I wouldn't have talked to staff had I read the list first. Because the price are sky rocketing and out of our budget so far. Have a glance some of the list.

Land plot = Ks 350,000 (S$ 510.00) per square feet. (Yangon, prime area)
Land + house = Ks 36,433 (S$ 53.00) per square feet. (Thanlyan, nearboring city of Yangon)
Condo Apartment = Ks 154,545 (S$ 226.00) per square feet. (Yangon, suburb area)
Condo Apartment = Ks 205,892 per sq ft (Yangon, close to city area)
Low Cost Apartment = Ks 51,429 per sq ft (Thanlyan Tsp)

Surprisingly, Myanmar is 2nd most expensive place to buy properties after Singapore. How do ordinary people of least developed nation afford such crazy price to own a place to call home? Recent and on-going labour strike show how deep the plight of industrial workers have gone in Myanmar. A general worker who work in garment can expect basis salary not more than Ks 50,000 per month. Given living cost, it is sadly enough for one person to survive. People are struggling to find such a job. But its property price go sky high definitely will make rich and poor gap more wider. No wonder we have seen a lot slum across the suburb areas of all round Yangon. It is obvious that internal migrant workers can't afford to rent a flat to live in. Because they are mostly uneducated workers and earn less. So they mostly rely on living in slum an it have been increasing.

Hope the authority will look into the unusual property market and step in to cool property price by creating low cost housing for public. At the same time, I hope the government introduce the housing scheme for its people to afford buying a roof over their heads.

Disqualified Agent

FIRST time in my life, I went to property show last Sunday in lion city. I have come across a lot property related news on local newspaper. The different for this property show is meant for Myanmar citizen who are working here. The show is organized by one of Myanmar construction company. They are marketing their own-built housing apartment as well as landed properties in some biggest cities of Myanmar. With the prospect of finding one suitable within my budget, I approach to one counter for inquiry. As it is crowd, I direct approached to a marketing person who is sitting at counter. I raised my hand to get attention by a sale personnel. Upon one's attention, I began a question-

Me: Hi, bro
Sale person: yes, may I help you.
Me: How much do we need to make for downpayment?
 SP: 25% Sir
Me: As at paying that 25%, how much physically done on site?
SP: it is considered deposit to enter contract between builder and customer.
Me: So...what does it mean, can you explain a bit more?
SP: At that stage, most likely the project still on paper, yet to start
Me: Then, how do we know when the project is going to start?
SP: it depend situation, can't say for sure
Me: Okay, then what is installation plan?
SP: you have to pay another 25% by the time the project begins.
Me: I see, then how long do you take to finish a project?
SP: mostly 2 years in Myanmar, Sir
Me: I see, when do we pay next payment?
SP: you have to pay in 2 stage during construction for balance 50%.
Me: I see, what if the project stopped half-way?
SP: Ummmm,,,,we usually go as plan.
Me: any condition for compensation clause if builder fail to deliver within agreed time?
SP: Umm...I am not sure as I am not from contract department
Me: Is there any service to link with local banks for financial assistance for customer?
SP: No, it is not our business, you got to deal with them. We only see if you pay in time or not.
Me: I see...then any liability period for any default within certain period?
SP: Umm I am not sure with that question.
Me: Ok never mind, thanks

I step back to let other fellow prospect buyers in after questioning some to sale person. Meanwhile, I notice there are few booklet on the table. When I ask for one copy, another sale person told me with unexpected answer. Sorry, Sir...they are limited edition and we have few copies. They are meant for those customers who are interested in landed properties. I am defeated by a horrible sale person within few minutes frame. I just wonder how did they prepare for oversea marketing. I just eventually console myself that it is because they came from my country. We need to learn a lot to become a professional in our respective sector to give maximum service to our customer unless it is for extra-mile.

May our young generation able to access proper education to make themselves ready for the competitive market.

Corruption Thought

HE is Oxford educated law professor and working for a top Asia's varsity, NUS. She is a law student who study at NUS. Two years after she graduates from school, the scandal has been disclosed by the media. I am interesting to read the news as it involved highly regard law professor who has worked for government as well. He is being charged for gratification. There are total 6 charges he is facing in court. The trial is on-going and it have been headline news these days. In the highly competitive world, students have been extremely crazy to achieve their ambition of getting top job after school. To get a place in top firm, he/she must pass in upper class honor in their respective field. What if the student wants the grade more than his/her qualification? This court case become a modern sample and make parent aware of their varsity-going children.

Look at what are the six charge.
1) Mont Blac Pen worth S$700+
2)  iPod worth S$160+
3) 2 pairs of tailor made shirt worth S$ 700+
4) paying bills worth S$ 1700+
5) sexual intercourse worth priceless
6) sexual intercourse worth priceless

In return, the professor has to access in favor of female student. It is very clear that he is easily afford to buy above items but the last two. She is as young as his daughter. The professor is 41 and she was about 19 when incident took place. It is really disgrace to the reputation of NUS. This incident had cost him suspension from his current post with NUS while the trial is on-going. Likewise, the greedy student's degree certificate has been voided by NUS as well as she lost her current job with top law firm. Nobody is winner from this sad story. But this case make me think of my country's education system.

Other than the last two, the first four items are nothing but common in our student-teacher relationship at all level, from kindergarten to university. As a buddhist nation, it is part of our culture to pay tribute to our teachers together with some presents occasionally. Some deliberately gave present to their teacher to get their favor in return. Some to show their gratitude in the performance of teachers. If accepting present is rated crime under corruption, I think most of our teachers have to go prison. It is partly due to system error. Our teachers are paid very low salaries and they can't survive without such under table practice. Some might give extra tuition outside classes in order to gain extra income to support their daily needs. Despite giving tuition is not recommended by authority, it is widely continue as a way of survivor. No wonder Singapore has reputation for its rule of law. Hope our country's law makers learn something from tiny state so that we could have a clean governance and good government as our president pledges always.

Know where you are

YESTERDAY, I read an article with relate to salary of fresh graduate in local paper interestingly. It may help us find where do we stand currently at our respective workplace. Sometime, one's success could be measured through gaining experience, facing new challenges and how much financially please, among others. It is obvious that cash is still the King because it empower us in doing things we like/want. In order to gauge our level, it is good to know market rate of salaries for different walks of life among industrial workers. As a foreign workers, we cannot breast the locals who has upper hand in term of education and language as well as government's policy favor. But,I believe knowing the fact help us to capture the place where we stand for. The following facts are shared from the yesterday Today paper's publishing. All findings below are meant for average starting salaries according to report conducted in 2012.

Diploma holder - S$1,866
Degree holder - S$2,678
Degree holder with honours (lower second class and below) - S$2,766
Degree holder with honours (upper second class and higher) - S$2,882

Hope the above fact will help you evaluate your salary if it is under/over against your contribution to your firm, especially for those who work in lion city.

source: today newspaper on 31/07/12

Interview thought

LAST night, my wife and I waited for our president's exclusive interview with Channel New Asia on TV. We hardly watch TV here. But today is special and we eager to watch how our president answer and how Channel New Asia's staff questioning. It take only about 20 minutes in total. As a person who chase the news of Myanmar, most of words he talked with interviewer are already known before. He talked 100% mother language to English speaking journalist. His words are translated and shown on TV with English sub-title. There are three major parts during interview, political, economical and ethnic problem. They are each sandwiched by advertisement. The interviewer is quite motivate and so does our president. It is good to speak mother language if he cannot excel in English. It is nothing wrong as long as his mindset is right. It is not for shame. There are so many world leaders who do not speak English. However if he speaks English well, it would be value added for him.

The day I remember when our young MP who follow ASSK in her European tour talked in one media conference. He didn't use translator and tried to talk English to attendance. He is quite young and seem lack of political experience as well as public speaking. He find himself difficult to find proper words while he attempt to explain what he wants. Some attendance seem boring to listen him. Perhaps, people might have expected him of somewhat quality of ASSK has shown. In fact, it is just typical youth of Myanmar. Nothing else. However, it would be easier to get first impression if he excel in English. I am sure most of our MPs will not be competent in world language. Hope they will try to learn and improve their halting English so that they could promote the communication skill while they keep in touch with others. Our country has opened up and now is just very beginning. There will be storms of visitors who come and see our MP in search of business opportunity as well as collaboration in possible sectors. Our young generation should have a proper access to recognizable education system so that their skill will not repeat their senior who have come across the darkest part of our history. 

Tomorrow never die and there is always time to do something we wants if we are really serious. It is better late than never. Please upgrade our education system for the sake of our country's future. Otherwise we will never stand ahead of our neighbors. Hope our MPs will look into this matter seriously so that our younger generation will not taste the bitter experience they are encountering right now.

Monday, July 30, 2012

Hidden Cost

MY wife has been using postpaid line for more than four years now. She signed contract with one of leading telecom boys. It was nothing wrong until last few months. We notices that her monthly bills has accelerated despite she use as normal as before. The additional charge is named as data servicing charge and come expensive at $88.00. When search breakdown in the bill, there is nothing to proof it. First, we thought it is result of changing policy and will come once a year like that. But it keep coming the following months and we started to call hotline to seek clarification with the said charge. However, as usual, it is always busy and no answer. After several encounters, we decided to inform company through email and we got reply few days later.

The officer did explain that my wife is a user of value plan which is capped at less than $40.00. However, she has to pay extra if she surf internet. In fact, my wife never used internet with mobile. The officer continue that the customer may notice 3G or GPRS icons in the top of mobile screen when he/she is using internet. What we don't understand is we never switched to internet button. The officer said, the handset might have automatically turn from wi-fi to 3G service where wifi service is out of courage. The real thing is she still working at the same company, living in same apartment, working in same places, going only downtown area. How come her mobile went out of wifi area? If her mobile needed to turn 3G, she should have been notified/ received SMS for changing as it come no free. As a basis user, we notice 3G icon but we don't aware of extra charge. We thought that if we don't use it, we don't have to pay. But the bill upset us and it lead us to complain to the service provider.

Finally, the officer advised us to terminate the data service in order to avoid unnecessary charge in future bills. However, she insisted that the extra charges shown in bill has to be paid and remain payable. Meanwhile, she offer to waive if we terminate service. We, almost immediately, agree with her to terminate the service since we never used that. We got another lesson to be learned which come a bit costly. As a prepaid card user, I have no reason to worry about such incident. Sometime it is safer to be conservative. May be I am wrong.

Better Know Consumer Right

NOWADAYS most of us are using credit card to make cashless shopping spree around. It make our life easier, not only we avoid to carry a lot money but safer to go around. In past, we have to carry a fat wallet around and needed to worry for robbery or lost it. With those cash card now, we have effectively remove such worrisome. As a consumer, I find it so convenience to use it despite there are some risks such as stolen and use pin for online shopping. But it is worthy if we think of countless advantage.

I am glad to read a news yesterday that my fellow citizens are likely to use those credit cards earliest by 2013. As our country open up, it is inevitable to put it aside if we are to develop as much as possible. The whole world has utilized those cards for several decades now. It proof it is worth to use by consumers. I always wonder how those card servicing companies survive before. The answer come with local newspaper yesterday. The news is actually adverse one rather than good. It said, some retailer or traders prefer to get cash than cards. They are annoying to see people use cards even for those daily necessity small expenses. It make them go longer process to eventually get the cash after less for transaction fees. Some retailers even offer rewards to those customers who pay by cash. The title itself explain that "Cash remain King", especially for traders or retailers. Why?

They have to bear transaction for those card users. Visa and Master Cards take 2% of transaction amount while American Express charge even more at 3.3%. No wonder retailers prefer cash. But the article highlighted that most of consumers don't know that some retailers are violating by urging for cash only. The author said, the consumer has the right to lodge files if they are denied to use credit cards by trader or retailers. As a seldom credit card user, I also didn't know about that. I usually pay either cash or net for my shopping here despite my ATM card come together with Master. Anyway, I think it is good to know the right of consumer with regard to those credit cards today. Now I know, it is not recommended way if my card is denied or rejected by any retailers or trader for my purchase. Some said customer has to spend certain amount if he/she wants to use credit card. It is also not complying the rule. But we all these days experience such things if it is not for total reject.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Do superiors always right?

IT is good to save energy. But I feel switching off the light at office during working hours is a little bit over-action. Unfortunately, it is happening to my office. There is one finance staff who might have thought of herself as a lady boss. Since she came in, there have been a lot changes in our office. I don't know why she is such a woman. Nobody in the office like her. People would silent while easily gossip behind her. I am the most vocal against her via email as well as verbal. Thus it is visibly she dislike me. As I have thought of maximum punishment losing my job, I am not intimidating against her. I rate her so free person in the office. Otherwise how can she find a time to go around office and switch off the light? She once email out everybody to set air-con temp at near body temperature. But locals colleagues are cool-fans and keep enjoying 20'C- room temp as usual.

She join us less than a year ago. But she tries to influence all department, not only account. I just don't know why she does so and why other senior level people quiet against her. There is one outspoken GM whom she scares most in the office. There have been a lot funny things come out of her. Since she is not trained as Engineers or Management, some of her instruction are rated as funny. For instance, among others, she one day asks HR to buy Milo rather than other 3 in 1 instant coffee mix. Do you know what's her reason for this instruction? Due to low consumption. I rate it wrong attitude. Mismanagement and people in wrong seat. My fellow colleagues keep gossip while they all silent when she tells ridiculous instruction. Life is sometime like that? Let it be.

Adverse impact

FEW days after my wife's project was fired, there was another big fatal accident happened in downtown line at Bugis. It was due to collapsing of temporary scaffolding. I was relax for my wife's company as public attention might have changed from their fire news to another fresh one. I however wondered if my fellow citizen involved or not in the accident. It claimed 2 foreign workers from China and Bangladesh. I read detail news in following day newspaper. I could able to sigh to know there was no Myanmar worker involved. 

Today, one close friend chat me to say she is hunting a job now. When I ask why, she said recent accident at Bugis was responsible for her company. Oh God,,,,,,how come my friend is involved it indirectly. It is inevitable their company may have construction permit revoked by BCA. The fatal accident might have made the process more complicated. It eventually affect my friend job. Understand how things are inter-dependent. It is not her fault at all. But she suffer as a consequence of the accident. I recall the time I told my wife to relax on her site firing recently. I told her she can go back home early if got fired due to that accident. She was visibly distraught. However, she later surprisingly finds her boss is quite normal with the matter. Perhaps he may know insurance company will take care of all lost by fire. Anyway it is good for them to retain a job after company's permit revoked.

However, my friend has adverse affect from the accident. She might have lack some luck to favor her. I wish her find a job soonest possible. To be optimistic, she is SPR and needless to worry about visa. Things change by time and we have to accept it as some are beyond our reach. What we can do for those darkest days is to exercise our mind to be calm in advance. Otherwise we would find ourselves in chaos when we suddenly meet life's challenge. 

May all of us able to take lesson from other mistakes.

When things go wrong

MY wife recently told me that her on-going site was being fined for mosquito encountered by local authority. In Singapore, there are things to do or not to do. Every wrong doing must end with fines. I am not sure if you could get reward when you do good thing. But I am sure you would get punishment if you do thing you are not supposed to. Failing to maintain her site free from mosquito, their company was fined $20,000 for first time. I don't know how much would it be if they commit next. No wonder Singapore is known as nanny state by some outsiders.

A week later, more harsh come to her company. I am shocked to learn that her site was caught in fire. Yes it has become headline news for few days. The construction permit was revoked by BCA. Luckily there was no casualty. They are doing a hotel renovation. The fire started in basement which has only one entrance. It make firemen's job more difficult to fight fire. There were some construction material on site that feed fire to maximize. Few persons were sent to hospital for outpatient ward while some take intensive care including 2 fire man who trip and fall during fire fighting. She is not happy to learn several problem within a month. I know the reason why my wife and her colleague are not happy with the incident. This is bonus paying month as well as salary review time. The recent cases might impact on the boss decision and it is most likely to affect their bonus and raise.

May all employee able to meet their expectation when it come to bonus.

Watch your bill

ONE day, I was shopping in nearby NTUC outlet. While I am looking at fish counters, noticed one customer come back and complain at staff for suspicious pricing slip. He is hesitating before he do so. He is buying some form of shell fish and eventually he got justice as the staff admit she makes mistake in weighing process. The mistake is about 3 fold more expensive than it is.

Coincidental, few minutes later, it was my turn to be victim of careless weighing staff. I was fortunately cautious from the recent incident of fellow customer. I took a malon fruit and pass it to her to stick a price slip. I was surprised to learn price tag showing $2.30. I used to buy such fruit and know it is cheap. Then, I go back the rack and review the price which come $0.20 per 100 gram. I understood it is a mistake by staff and straight away go back to staff and complain. She without hesitating, amended the price tag by saying sorry, sorry. After correction, it cost me about $0.80 only. By the time I approach her, she was weighing broccoli which is more expensive than what I bought. When I give my fruit to her, she simply put on scale and stick the printed tag on food without changing unit price. It is understandable human make mistake. But seeing similar mistake within a few minutes span is a little big too frequent I think. It may affect NTUC's reputation if very frequent. Building a brand take considerable time. But it take too short to spoil its reputation if mismanaged. 

We usually neglect those tag because they are not expensive items. But practicing to check small thing will matter us in the long run, I guess. May all customer able to avoid such bitter experience by putting a bit cautious effort.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

To My Daughter 3

Dear my daughter.....

There are some general rules you should stick in mind when you are getting older to succed your life. I am sure they are worth to follow regardless of race, religious, background. As one beer company advertisement, "Best things in life are shared", I hope you may share these rules with your friends if you like it.

It is vitally important to maintain boundaries between work and life. Skip going out for drinks with the gang after work every night. You will notice that the boss does not do it, which is one reason that he is the boss. And while we are discussing the boss: There is rarely, if ever, any sound reason for you to have a drink with him or her alone, much less dinner. And while we are discussing drinking, never drink at a business lunch. Finally, and importantly, avoid in-office romances. They usually end in personal and professional disaster for one or both parties.

When you get older, remember that you will gain little from singles bars- the bartenders will learn and earn more from the experience than you will.

Always use the toilet before you set out on a long drive or make an apparence in public.

Learn to type and to sew. I never did, and I regret it often, on both counts.

Learn to do as much arithmetic and figures as possible in your head. This may sound strange, considering that calculators are everywhere, but you will have a leg up by understanding the numbers better than others, while also noticing anomalies others miss. Besides, what will they do when they've left their calculators at home? This will be a huge advantage for you as few will be able to keep up with you.

Finally, take care of yourself! It's difficult to be successful if you aren't healthy and rested You know how your mother is always putting sunscreen on you? She is exactly right.

Learn to stay calm - especially in times of pressure or turmoil. You will make much better decision plus everyone will soon notice you are calm under pressure when others are not. I have gotten better, but still am a hothead too often - and always regret it later.

Always be early for appointments. You will be much more efficient with your time and will make a very good impression since many arrive late - some repeatedly late.

Once you do get to know and understand yourself, remember who you are and stay with it. I still get carried away at times and act emotionally or do things at which I am not good. I always look back and try to kick myself into remembering I need to be true to myself.

I have learned in life that being greedy nearly always causes problems. An old Wall Street adage says: Bulls make money; bears make money. Pigs go broke.

Always ask questions and never be afraid to do so. The only dumb question is the one you do not ask.

Disclaimer: I am just copy from the book, A Gift to My Children....A Father's Lessons for Life and Investing....by JIM ROGERS.
For more widom and advice from Jim Rogers, visit www.jimrogers.com.

To My Daughter 2

Dear my daughter,

Further to previous post, there are some cautious rules highlighted by author in the book with regard to boys/men. It is pretty right in this world and as a man myself, I agree with the author in this points as well. It seem a form of protest against men/boys but true enough. We have to accept things as it is if we really want to mature in life. The rules are simple but helpful to all age of women. Hope you love it too.

As you get older, you will have to deal with boys. I expect always to be giving you advice and warning you about boys. The basic principle to remember is this: They need you more than you need them. They will make you millions of promises in their frantic pursuit of you. Take it from someone who knows; I can tell the stories better than they can. Just ignore them and say true to yourself. Use your common sense when you start hearing absurd promises, compliments, and flattery. Do not follow a boy to a different school, city, or job. Make the boys follow you.

Be wary: Learn that many men who look old enough to be your father or grandfather do not think of you as their daughter or granddaughter.

Do not get married until you are at least twenty-eight and know a bit more about yourself and the world.

Source: A Gift to My Children by Jim Rogers

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

To My Daughter

I AM reading a book and enjoy every single word the author has tried to express based on his life experience. Since the author, Jim Roger is three time winner of Guinness record, no wonder his books are worth reading. This is first time I taste his book and much intend to read all his books in near future through national library. The book is dedicated to his two daughters and it is very much in line with my feeling toward my little daughter. At the end of the book, there is a section called Epilogue and I really appreciate to read that section. I would like to remember it for the rest of my life and also want to forward this wisdom words to my daughter when she grown up. This lead me copy those words to my very own blog so that I could able to retrieve it later in future easily. Hope the author will not disappoint at me for doing this without his consent. I did it because I really appreciate your wisdom, Sir. Dear my daughter, I sincerely hope that one day you'll access my blog and find this page and try to follow the little rules for your best interests.

Always buy quality products. They last longer and retain more value.

Always eat before you go grocery shopping! If you're hungry when you go, you'll end up buying more food than you need!

Anything that is a "must see," "must try," "must read," should almost certainly be avoided, especially if it is popular.

Use good manners no matter where you are or whom you meet. They are an eternal verity that will always distinguish you. Be sensitive to the mores of each society because "good manners" are often different in various cultures.

Beware of all politicians everywhere. They excelled at recess when they were in school but have excelled at little since.

Never ask someone how much money he or she makes, or how much something costs. Never tell someone how much your things cost. Never discuss how much money you make or have. My parents and grandparents ingrained this in me because it is ostentatious and poor manners, at least for us. Prove yourself by your actions rather than by talking about money. There are many folks these days who love discussing their money and flashing it about, but it is not the way I hope you will live.

If and when you borrow money, pay it back on time, if not in advance. Good credit is vital. A bad credit record will haunt you for years.

source: A Gift to My Children by Jim Rogers

Watch your mouth, outspoken officials

I am pleased to have a reformist president for my country. I am delighted to learn the news generated by his on-going Thailand official visit. There have been some MoU signed as a result of his visit. As a job hungry nation, we need to persuade all potential investors to create jobs for our people. We sometime cannot afford to wait investors come and invest. We have to go out of country if the chance arisen. Our president has been busy since he take over the high seat in newly elected government. The world has recognized his effort toward reconciliation and economy/political reform. He had always expressed his desire to follow people's desire as they are being elected by people. He has recognized people's power often.

At the same time, he is lacking able ministers in his cabinet level. We all know that he inevitably accept some nominated minsters by a respected powerful general in his cabinet. No wonder, most of ministers are ex-general from former Junter. We are lucky to have a honest and simple president. But we are not lucky to have see those ex-general ministers inside cabinet. It is clear that they are not eligible to deal with international level delegates. It is clear that they are not able to perform top jobs. It is clear that no soldier in this world handle administrative office properly. Just look at around the world and see at military control nations. They all are far behind the world. They all are poor. Their leader are super rich while their people are poorest people in the world. These are some common facts among others for those military ruler nations. Our country has been ruled by army since 1962 and we became poorer than even colonial state level.

I am disappointing to learn some minister's speech at people. Their sound point at their qualification level. Their behavior in front of people suggest how lower class they are. When electricity breakage, one senior engineer from electrical power department said people to wish rain god. Another adviser suggest people to alter candle light. Another electrical minister said nobody know hydro power electricity better than him. What a damn is it? He even said we have to sell extra electricity to neighboring countries. What a funny remark is it? People are died of electricity everyday. Most recently, one high profile level person from ruling UNSP party telling at interview in China was really embarrassing for our government. He even accused president for suspending China-funded controversy myitsone dam at northern Myanmar. He formed by saying people in Myanmar are crazy to support ASSK. We all know who is he. We all know where he come from. We all know his profile. Then gossiping about president from own party on another nation is really showing his standard. He might have underestimated our people. He might have thought that no one in Myanmar are educated. Nevertheless, by doing so, he has declared the war with people and he'll get to know how powerful people are, at least in next general election, 2015.

May our ministers able to watch their tongue when they are talking at public.

Let's choose the best

CHINA's devastating rain news has become headline news in world's media these days. It has claimed 37 lives and destroyed sizable physical properties. It has been embarrassing for China as it happened on its capital city, Beijing. Beijing residents are sharing their plights through online. Also accuse government for delaying information about weather change. Most of people relied the data through internet rather than government news. Meanwhile, the China official highlighted that one day rain was equivalent with usual 6 months volume. The fact say it is the worst experience in over 6 decades. Anyway, there have been questions raise to concern the quality of infra-structure in other cities. People of China doubt with government's boast on developing nation with world-class infra-structure now.

What make me think instantly from this news is that I am wondering whether our officials are awarding China companies for infra-structure projects in our country or not. As a least developed nation, we need to build a lot infra-structure projects across the country. I know it is inevitable to put aside Chinese firms as they may approach government tenders with enormous discount as well as interest-free loans. Our government officials have to be clever enough to think of China's lure if it come. We have inevitably been using Chinese products in past as there was no choice by sanction. Our people can afford cheap products from China regardless of quality or health concern. This is different time for our government as well as people now. We could have variety of firms to choose from. US, EU and other developed nations are willing to help us in building our nation now. We should take such opportunity when it knock our doors. We should realize the quality of China make product. How can we expect Chinese firms to do a good infra-structure if they even dare to do simply for their own capital city, Beijing? It is as simple as that. There is no way to award Chinese firms if our officials are free from corruption. Otherwise, we are more likely to suffer from the needs of frequent maintenance and at worse broken at all. Lets be wise and choose the best over Chinese firms.

Friday, July 20, 2012

A talkative monitor lizard

Editor: Different political forces in Myanmar are trying to consolidate and reconcile. But on the other hand, the game among them and the under the table confrontations never stopped.
For Myanmar today, the ruling party- USDP- is without question the most important leading force. Will USDP step out of its historic shadow? In the “new” parliament, how will USDP and the opposition led by Aung San Suu Kyi co-exist with each other? With these questions, the reporters from Southern Weekend interviewed Aung Thein Linn, executive member of the Central Committee of USDP, chairman of the Reform and Modernization Supervisory Committee of the Myanmar parliament, and a former mayor of Yangon.
Aung Thein Linn came from the military and was the mayor of Yangon from 2003 to 2011. Currently, he has left the military and his mayor position to be a member of the parliament. He is also the chairman of USDP in Yangon region, leading more than half a million members of USDP.
“I do not trust Ban Ki-moon, nor UN”.
Southern Weekend : From 2011, President Thein Sein has been pushing for massive economic, social and political reforms in Myanmar. Could you start with an overall assessment of the reform?
Aung Thein Linn: We are to build a democratic country and will not reverse the trend. We are to build a peaceful, developed and democratic country for the next generation. Everyone in this country loves democracy. We have done a good job implementing the Seven-Step Road Map.
Southern Weekend: So far, do you think the reform is successful?
Aung Thein Linn: Yes.
Southern Weekend: Then what are the main difficulties for the reform?
Aung Thein Linn: A major challenge is the economic sanctions since the 1990’s. They impact everyone: not only the government, but also every person. The sanction resolutions are an interference in our internal affairs by Western countries. Through the interference, they want to build a puppet regime in Myanmar, which is not something we want.
Southern Weekend: Recently, the economic sanctions are being loosened. Both the U.S. and EU have shown some friendly gestures….
Aung Thein Linn: We do not believe them. There is still a gang in our country who wants to grab the power. Their goal is to set up a puppet regime in Myanmar.
Southern Weekend: About international community and sanctions, recently UN Secretary General visited Myanmar and met with President Thein Sein. All these show that the relationship between Myanmar and the international community is improving, no?
Aung Thein Linn: Just think about it: who is controlling the UN? Who is controlling Ban Ki-moon? The headquarter of UN is in New York. Just think about it and you will know.
Southern Weekend: But it seems to me that President Thein Sein likes Ban Ki-moon.
Aung Thein Linn: Maybe, I don’t like them anyway. I don’t trust Ban Ki-moon, nor the UN. They are all the same. All they think of is to interfere with other countries’ internal affairs.
Southern Weekend: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton also visited Myanmar recently. What is your comment?
Aung Thein Linn: That is our failure. She wasn’t here to see us. Her trip was not for our people, nor for our country, but only for “that woman”. You know that person. It was precisely because of “that woman” that Myanmar has faced with sanctions.
“Efforts to revise the Constitution will not succeed”
Southern Weekend: In the recent by-elections, NLD led by Aung San Suu Kyi had a landslide victory. Now NLD has 43 members in the parliament and has become the largest opposition party. As a member of the central committee of the ruling party and an MP, how do you plan to cooperate with them?
(Aung Thein Linn clashed his two fists against each other, laughing, saying “Yes, cooperation! Cooperation!” Then he had the more serious look on his face.)
Aung Thein Linn: All of our policies are for the country. We don’t have any selfish motive and are willing to cooperate with any party that serves the country and the people. After the by-elections, they won 43 seats, only 6% of the parliament. We have 76% and are the absolute majority.
Southern Weekend: You are holding the power…
Aung Thein Linn: At least for now. Our principle is “All for the country”. That is also the three principles of USDP: to protect the territorial integrity of the country, the solidarity among ethnic groups and Myanmar’s sovereignty.
Southern Weekend: We saw the opening of many offices of NLD in Yangon and many excited people. They support Aung San Suu Kyi and NLD with great passion. What’s your comment on that?
Aung Thein Linn: They are crazy. Ok, she is popular, but only because she is the daughter of General Aung San. He is our national hero.
Southern Weekend: You mentioned the reform is for the democratization of Myanmar. Have you thought about that someday you might lose your status as the ruling party and become an opposition party?
Aung Thein Linn: In elections, the party winning the majority will organize the government, but still it has to rule the country according to the Constitution. The Constitution was approved by all the people. The ruling party and government might change, but the Constitution can not be changed just because some people don’t agree.
Southern Weekend: But as far as I know, the NLD is trying to revise the Constitution.
Aung Thein Linn: Yes, they don’t like the Constitution.
Southern Weekend: Because it doesn’t allow the spouse of a foreign national to run for office. That way, the political future of Aung San Suu Kyi becomes a problem, right?
Aung Thein Linn: Yes, that is a rule for the qualification of the president and vice presidents.
Southern Weekend: Do you think their effort to revise the Constitution will succeed?
Aung Thein Linn: The leader of NLD (Aung San Suu Kyi) is the spouse of a foreign national. That’s why they want to revise the Constitution. But it is our responsibility to maintain our national identity and we will pass along this responsibility from generation to generation. The Constitution determines that the spouse of a foreign national shall not be the leader of the nation.
Southern Weekend: You are saying the revision of Constitution will not succeed.
Aung Thein Linn: No way. No one likes their trick. Myanmar was once a British colony and was ruled by the British for more than 100 years. No one wants to go back to be a colony again. This is the main reason. The second reason is that we will never allow any foreign military facility in Myanmar. That is a requirement for our sovereignty.
“We learned a lot of lessons.”
Southern Weekend: As the MP of the ruling party, how do you view the representatives of the opposition parties in the Parliament? Are they your friend, competitor or collaborator, or else?
Aung Thein Linn: Competitors.
Southern Weekend: Are there any different opinions on political reform and the relationship with the opposition parties within USDP? For example, among the senior members of USDP’s Central Committee, do you share the same view?
Aung Thein Linn: There is no difference of opinions. Our solidarity is based on the three main principles of the party. No different opinions.
Southern Weekend: Have you learned any lessons from the by-elections?
Aung Thein Linn: We learned a lot, really learned a lot.
Southern Weekend: For example?
Aung Thein Linn: For example, to win an election, we need to do more public relations campaign on the work we have done and better understand the need of the people. We also need to change the thinking style of the people, spread the knowledge and work with the people regularly.
Southern Weekend: Is there a problem of further releasing the political prisoners? Some critics are saying there are still a large number of political prisoners in Myanmar.
Aung Thein Linn: We used to have political prisoners, who are all released now. So-called political prisoners were all in prison because they broke the law.
Southern Weekend: NLD told us that there are at least 300 political prisoners not released yet.
Aung Thein Linn: They have been spreading false rumors about us. This is a shameful hostile strategy of the Americans.
Southern Weekend: About next general election, does USDP have any specific plan to win more votes?
Aung Thein Linn: We will reform USDP and improve the party organs at all levels, at villages, townships and cities.
Southern Weekend: What do you mean by reform? Looking for better party representatives?
Aung Thein Linn: Yes, we will find better people. Furthermore, we will also build road, water systems and schools for the villages, promote the medical insurance system, provide better social welfare and small loans for farmers.
Southern Weekend: Do you think you can win the next general election by these?
Aung Thein Linn: We will win if we try.

“Myitsone dam must continue.”
Southern Weekend: Many people feel that now Myanmar seeks a balance among China, U.S. and Europe. Will there be any change to the foreign policy of USDP?
Aung Thein Linn: Generally speaking, our foreign policy seeks peaceful coexistence. We have a close and friendly relationship with China. China has helped us tremendously for a long time. Everyone knows that. In Myanmar, you could see China’s donations everywhere. Among all the countries, China has helped Myanmar most and for the longest time. That is why we have survived so far.
Southern Weekend: In 2011, President Thein Sein announced the suspension of the Myitsone dam. Many Chinese are very interested in this issue.
Aung Thein Linn: That is not our national policy, and not a decision by the parliament. It was a decision by one man.
Southern Weekend: One man, meaning the President?
Aung Thein Linn: Yes, it was his own idea, not a resolution by the parliament. We oppose his decision. He tries to sever the ties between China and Myanmar.
Southern Weekend: Do you think the construction of the dam could be resumed?
Aung Thein Linn: It MUST, because we have to think for the country. We need electrical power. The power shortage in Myanmar has been a long problem, and a political one. You can imagine that some Western countries try to sever the ties between China and Myanmar.
Southern Weekend: What is your attitude towards foreign investment?
Aung Thein Linn: We have drafted the new foreign investment laws. In the future, all countries are welcome to invest, but will do so by the law. The Chinese are very close to Myanmar. At the UN and other international forums, China has always been on the side of Myanmar government. The peoples of China and Myanmar understand each other. We welcome China to invest in Myanmar. We are friends.
Southern Weekend: But there are indeed complaints from NGO, media and average Myanmar people about Chinese companies’ exploitation of resources and polluting the environment. Will you hate the Chinese?
Aung Thein Linn: No.  We are very friendly towards the Chinese. When we were in trouble, it was the Chinese who helped us

source: http://www.burmanet.org/news/2012/07/17/southern-weekend-china-myanmar-mp-some-people-want-to-set-up-a-puppet-regime-in-myanmar-%E2%80%93-zhang-zhe-and-ye-weimin/

Friday, July 13, 2012

Happy birthday to you

TODAY is 14 July 2012 and my daughter's 2 year Birthday. She will celebrate her Birthday without stay-away parent today. My sisters have tried their best to make this Birthday as perfect as possible. They are busy with necessary arrangement to change our house to a party place. Last night, my daughter's cousin brothers are coming at her home and playing together. When we give a call to our daughter, she is visibly happy to play with fellow children. We could heard her sound of command. She is one of youngest children but her sound is loudest. She usually make adults as her friend at home. No wonder, she is so happy whenever fellow children come to home.

My sister will make special food (Nat Thokedar) to serve visitors as well as 2 hostel students. She will also send it to 2 poor monasteries. My sister will also donate 12 oxygen cylinder to social welfare organization for our daughter. My younger sister ordered a special birthday cake from local departmental store to make all children enjoy celebration. Another elder sister bought couple gold hand chain and visit from Yangon, 350km away from my daughter's home town. My nephew and niece will come visit to attend her birthday from Taunggyi, 400km away. My third elder sister will come from my village, 42 miles away. The foods would be offered to the whole quarter. We hope our daughter's birthday would be a good celebration today and will last memory long. Last night, people are busy with decorating home with colorful balloons. As she is living away from parent, all people around pity her and will do their best to make this birthday special. We wish her possess a happy birthday together with children and forgot us. It is painful to think of unable to attend her big day celebration. But we have to be strong enough if we really love her.

Happy Birthday to you, my dear. We love you so much. We miss you as much as you miss us.

When pasture greener

WHEN I joined my company, there was only one fellow citizen at office. After four years on, there has been increase the number of my compatriot to 5, 4 QS and 1 Engineer. It is nice to have small Myanmar community within office as we could chat something in common during working time. Fortunately, we all are placed side by side desks to make it group. Don't know it is happening by accident or deliberate effort. Only senior management will know. Anyway, it is good sign of recognition for our hard working attitude. Partly, it's due to ever expanding works through successful projects. There is one site manager who is Myanmar but holding Singapore passport. He has been working here for more than 14 years and treated as a leader of Burmese immigrant workers on site. As a part of his duty, he also need to help HR recruit new Myanmar workers.

This week, he is sharing his experience on finding new Myanmar workers. He said, our company is trying to recruit 30 Myanmar workers at site for incoming projects. But, nowadays it is not as easy as before to get required workers at the right time. Upon his giving up, HR tried to contact agent and find the same experience. The senior management is surprising on the rare exposure of Myanmar workers here. The Singaporean Myanmar man tried to find cause and explained his finding. Today, young Myanmar worker's destination has been changed to Korea over lion city. Because they could get as high as 10 lakhs by working in Korea republic which is as double as they could earn in lion city. No wonder they all go there as Korea industrial doesn't need special skills like Singapore does. Anyway, it is good for Myanmar workers as company appreciate our effort. Our workers are widely accepted that less troublesome and highly adaptable new working environment compare to their counterparts from other countries. In fact, HR could easily find new recruit from India and Bangladesh. But bosses don't like to hire them from experience. Finally, they realize the situation and allow to recruit some workers from South Asian workers.

I am sure, this trend will not return to previous stage since Myanmar starts open up its economy now. It is obvious that there would be more jobs coming in the pipeline through foreign direct investment in near future. It will block our young professional going oversea. At the same time, greener pasture will attract those who are already working in foreign lands return home sooner or later. The situation is changing in momentum and we  all hope that returning home is not far from now.

Thank you Singapore

THERE is a Burmese saying that "I am not bad if you are good". I don't have a practice of smile easily. Perhaps it is bad practice. After finding several unfairness in work, it become more persist on me to smile to my fellow colleagues. I paid attention on my job during working hours. If I have nothing to do, I would surf so that I could able to remain at my desk. There are a lot of bully, abuse, racist at the job. We would be easy target since we are immigrant workers from inferior country.

I know it from experience that the law would not be enforced if the offender is close to superior/management. Where got no one is above the law? Probably in the book only we may find. I may be pessimist for my thought. But you will never sympathize without exposure of the same feeling. We are frequently intimidated by locals in some ways at a time. The local people would avoid to argue or clash between them. But they would not hesitate to score/blame at inferiors. When it step down, they would be united among same races, Chinese to Chinese, Indian to Indian. They would tell us not to speak our mother tongue at work while they always enjoying theirs. They would quickly switch the language if the case is going to be wrong due to their fault. At another point, they would score us by their own language. We could sometime feel by behavior, not necessarily physical abuse.

Yesterday, HR manager asked people to join in one colleague's Birthday celebration. It is about to sing Birthday song as usual. I feel that is not fair and don't want to join. Thus, I risk of her anger by choosing not to join. She said, she won't ask other when it come to my turn. Never mind, as it never come to me by office. My official Birthday has been passed few months ago and there was no such activities in office. Then, HR recognizes on other colleague's Birthday doesn't mean it is correct way, to my opinion. We don't know what is real HR policies toward all employees. I feel that it all depend on personal feeling of few person. As a MNCs, it shouldn't be like that within management. But it really really happening to my workplace. I don't know why such thing happening to our world, especially when they speak loud that they are world's leading specialist in one particular building technology.

Thank you, Singapore for making me a mature cautious guy.

Thursday, July 12, 2012

People in the dream

YESTERDAY, I was reading a sport news with interesting on local newspaper. It was about AFF Suzuki Cup 2012 grouping news that was conducted on Bangkok. The competition was rated as a highest level footballing competition within the region. There are two groups so called A and B. Each group has 3 teams each and left one empty place for qualifiers. Surprisingly, my country is not inside the drawing and understand that we have to pass through qualification round together with other low ranking 4 nations. Noted auto qualifiers are Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore and Philippine. Those nations need to enter qualification round are Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, Brunei and East Timor.

What this news make me think is we're always proud of our football quality in past time. Some sport journalist still writing to recall the golden days our former generation has enjoyed in Asian level. In fact, we are not declining in just sport sector, but all round. Our people seem forgot to understand current level of our football. They including me still assuming our country is football mad nation and has enormous footballing talent to compete in region. However, the realistic is that our world ranking has been declining for few decades and current standing is in the bottom half. We can't deny that we are no longer footballing power house in Asean region now. This AFF Suzuki cup draw give us a good gauge to measure our level of football quality.

In past, at national level, we always beat Philippine team, different is only goal score. We still at least think our football is better than Philippine. We seem forgot to survey what our neighboring nations are doing to improve their sport level. We seem thinking the quality of sport remain unchanged for years. It show us wrong when we see our MNL team KBZ was beaten by Philippine team Spark in RHB Singapore Cup 2012 quarter final. I went and watch the match live with the prospect of winning the game. We underestimate opponent as it come from Philippine that we believe lower quality in football. We were totally wrong when we witness the match playing. Our players were beaten by physical as well as pace. Perhaps our supporters win in term of voice we support our team. If we want to improve our football quality, we have to understand the cause of problem. First we have to judge our present level. Then improve from there. We cannot afford to misjudge present level if we want to go further. Otherwise, our people will be much look like staying in the dream.

When poem speak louder than words

THIS is rainy season in Myanmar. My little daughter was born in mid July and seem loves rain. She don't like to be hot and easy to sweat. Yesterday would be her second year arriving to our family. As she close to 2, she is considerably become talkative. We had some time to worry when she didn't walk on time. We had some discomfort time when she is frequent to sick. As she enjoys rice later, her resistance also increase and became a healthy girl. When raining outside, she would shout for joy and will sing a famous poem she learned from her aunty. The poem said,

"I'll take shower when it's rainning
I'll take breast-milk when mum's coming
I'll cut and eat coconut when dad's coming"

Repeat it so long as child feels good inside out. We also singing that poem when we are school-going children. But I'm not sure I could able to sing it when her age, younger than 2 now. It is normal to see a children singing that poem under normal circumstance. However, it's a bit strange for my sisters to see her singing it passionately because my daughter is living there with relatives. They perfectly know that her father and mother will not come back in near future despite she is shouting at poem. They don't know if she is singing it as a sign of her wish. They don't know if she really understand the meaning of it at her age. But they know her parent is an ocean away right now. My sisters and relative can't stop thinking while she is not stopping singing poem by dancing.

Wish you able to celebrate your future birthdays together with your Dad and Mum. We miss you too....
 

Wednesday, July 11, 2012

Know good friends

AT the time of transition, our baby stage government will need outside help in term of financial and technology. The ethnic conflicts are additional burden for young government, in deed. It's obvious that there is no such thing to lead a nation by one superman. While our president trying his best, his old and new guards must follow up his policies. All opposition parties also have their obligation in helping move forward our nation. I am glad to see that our country is being recognized as a nation by international community again. It's first ever I see in my life time. Also delight to learn a lot of ministers level people are visiting our land as a form of encouraging our reforms. At the same time, they are giving several donation as well as advising on some area they are excelling. We have to rely on experts if we want to achieve our aim at shortest possible.

I very often read news of several donation through states or UN or NGO or private charity firms. Regardless of sources, it is good to have others help. We should keep doing positive things in country so that the donors won't disappoint us in future. We can't afford to ignore their invaluable help as we are far left behind the world. We need to learn a lot from them as they already know things we yet to know. First in my life time, our country is getting serial helps now. However, I am surprising to learn that few neighboring nations silent. These countries has enjoyed most possible benefit from Myanmar's isolation status. They have taken advantage of our rich natural resources. They have taken our precious minerals with fire price. They have made wealth from the cheap labor of our people. But they seem do not take responsibility for our social welfare. Now western nations has shown their sympathy by donating and offering helping hand to build our nation. But those gold-digger nations keep silent. Our leaders should know the attitude of such nations. Our policies makers should avoid their companies giving future tenders and projects. In brief, it is time to understand who is real friend and who is enemy.

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

VP headache

GOOD news is that one hardliner VP retired from its post on the ground of medical. There are a lot of speculation with the replacement. People and media keep guessing and wondering who is his successor. World's media rate it good movement by reform minded government. At the same time, there have been several deputy ministers assigned as a replacement of existing. However, our pleasure on those positive, as usual, do not last long by the following news. There have been one proposed VP by military MPs as they have a right to choose replacement as required by sham constitution. By funny constitution, one VP of two must be selected by military MPs. The nomination VP is widely considered hardline former general who has taken several brutal mission against civilian during his role with junta. He has a good relationship with retired senior general who is deemed to have some power by shadowing the ruling party leaders.

Most people and media has shown their disagreement on the nomination of the hardliner former general. We all hope to see a moderate person rather than usual face from former junta. If our elected civilian government is going toward democratic way, they should try to rid of such people who are not competent and always step backward to defend their interests rather than think of people's benefit. It would be a major step back for our president if he allow unsuitable person as VP. He needs a wise VP if he wants to go further. He needs to avoid old guards if he wants to continue gain international community confidence. As he always said, new government is listening people voice as they are elected by people. If it make sense, he would try to listen people's desire this time again. We all are exciting to see the official announcement of new VP few days to come. If the improper replacement come, there would be a lot of disappointment in the air by people and of course media. The VP elect has reputation for his way of management and strain relationship with local media as well as monks. It is obvious he is not a better choice to step in VP role. He would be even rated worse replacement to a bad outgoing VP. 

May our leaders able to find a good successor without seeing organizational tie to generate best ever result for the sake of nation and people.

Controversial Nation

UNFORTUNATELY, we are a neighbor of a controversial nation, China. There are somethings we should praise for China's achievement, such as being third nation that could able to send human to the space, able to go underneath of an ocean, making supersonic warplane, among others. However, it is nothing to do with us as we don't get any technology know-how from China obviously. We only get outdated machines and faked products from China. They are cruel when it come to business to make profit. They have no kind hearts when they deal with others. They would not hesitate to do any unfair things to take advantage.

China is a home of fake materials in world. Everything can be made through Chinese channel. They would compete the world market by exporting cheap products with fair quality. Their government would subsidize if their companies struggle against international competitors. The recent news showed their ambition to protect their business unfairly. China reduced export quota for rare-earth which is essential for electronic companies. China don't care even WTO's warning to follow other nations' complain on breaking the rule of fair trade agreement. They gave reason for sustainable natural resource for long term future. Then, they are not acting the same measure when it come to do business in my country. They are bringing our forest and replant in their province. They are developing controversial hydroelectric myitsone dam despite the whole nation protested. Our president has suspended the project. But recent photos on social media website suggest CPI secretly resume some works at dam sites. From the big dam project, they are bringing back all digging soil back home. We strongly believe that those soils have high intensity of precious metal such as gold and rare-earth. We all know that China won't do anything without profit. We are disappointing to see our authority unable to stop them doing some ridiculous thing on our land. let it be. Not good enough? Let me share another cases.

Most recently, our custom officers found fake cooking oil imported from China. The news come to shock our people who relied on cheap lower quality imported oil for their daily cooks. Thanks private media firms for surfacing such whistle-blowing news. It's good enough to understand China's intention. We all know that China is a home of tainted milk powder, gutter oil, fake egg, even hair band by using used condoms. What a damning manner is it? No wonder recently the world saw people passed by a dying baby hit by a car. The world outrage. Then, most recently, authority forced a heavy pregnancy woman to abort at hospital because she has been one child. What an inhumane act is it? Look south china sea, there is always conflict there. Only the different is nation China argues with. No wonder to see that Asia pacific region nations increasingly rely on US's present in order to make their security against China's rising threat. Today paper say China is seeking defense tie with Australia to counter US's influence in the region. At the same time, China's foreign ministry accused US's movement as a "cool war mentality". Regardless of reason, it is real that China's capability is aggressively increase and threatening to its neighboring countries. China has to stop its bully minded policy if they want to gain others confidence in them and stand as a dignity nation like US.

Monday, July 9, 2012

Good Catalyst

TODAY, our lady make her historic parliamentary debut by attending first ever section in the wake of her April by-election win. Wherever she goes, media follow. Whatever she speaks, media publish. When she is silent, media question her for next moment. Definitely, our parliament is more lively when she step in parliament. It's obvious the ruling party's PMs will not have luxurious time to rest under ceiling of parliamentary house. She and her fellow NLD members are going to launch serial questions to be rebated in parliament. Once they voice, USDP's MPs will unable to stay outside the circle. They will have to involve in the debate and have to bring out of their best in out. Otherwise, they will start feeling hot or at worst, feeling embarrassing to take a seat without contributing any significant role for people. For this reason alone, ASSK's present in parliament will benefit our people and country.

No doubt that her present will attract international attention on Myanmar. Getting her involved in the process of democratization means we are going on the right track. Having her in the parliament will secure the minds of most MPs by thinking at least we have one powerful and smart leader on board. We have no doubt that she will generate meaningful questions to be debated within house. We are convinced that she will climb all the way from the possible now back seat to the topmost up sooner or later. We trust that all ethnic parties' MPs will support her move. At the same time, she will try to convince military represent MPs within house so that she will gain the vote she needs for her proposal. In brief, today is a day of blessing for Myanmar's political landscape and we all hope that mixing NLD inside parliament would be a good blend to generate the best possible outcome to the benefit of our people.

Costly "Yes"

MY wife and I usually sharing work problem in dinner time. She is currently working for ID (Interior Decoration) contractor. Her company is specialize in doing furniture and wardrobe for residential buildings. They started to expand their business from just furniture to interior decorator. As a part of their effort, my wife was being employed a year ago. So, most of ID projects would be assigned to my wife. There is another senior QS from Philippine in her company.

First in their history, they recently have been awarded big project by local developer. The project come a package together for some minor structures and overall interior decoration. It is 27 million contract sum and considered big enough for local SMEs who usually does a million cost projects. The Philippine senior QS was assigned for in-charge and my wife is responsible for podium part of hotel which is considered more complicated compare to typical rooms of main hotel. There were a lot emails flying in and out since tender stage. As a senior QS and in-charge of the project, the Filipino QS had to reply all questionnaires among others. In order get this project, their boss gave several discounts during tender interview stages.

As the company lack necessary management to handle a big job, there have been found a lot misconducted. One night, my wife told me that, we make a big mistake. How, I raised my sound eagerly. My senior replied "yes" to consultant's question on one particular job. So, what's happen to?, I continue to ask. It was a job of fire curtain which surround escalators of hotel lobby. Don't you consider the item? The tender drawing failed to show but BQ items include it. So, we didn't notice and taken into consideration for shop front roller shuttle doors. To clarify the matter, consultant QS sent out questionaries together with other uncertain items before making it contract. Then? My senior QS simply replied "yes, included". So..how does it affect? Consultant insists the contract sum included of those item. 

How much does it cost you?
It cost us "S$600,000".
Oh God, it's so expensive.
Yes, we all never do it before and oversee it.
Then, what can you do to solve the problem?
Nothing but request consultant to let us claim under VO.
Do you think they'll agree?
I don't think so, as we already answer "yes, included" without understanding thoroughly.
Hmmmmmm,,,I am helpless to continue.

My wife said, "I also feel guilty for this problem despite I am not the one who replied email to consultant". We both felt initially that consultant is wrong. But, we found the email letter today and we are motionless as the evidence come in favor of consultant. Don't know what the boss tell us when he knows the story. Meanwhile, we keep informs boss that it is not our problem as tender drawing failed to show it.

I wish them that may consultant later allow them to claim under VO.

Friday, July 6, 2012

Crony Thought

CRONY, a word we very often see in media these days. Merriam Webster Dictionary defines it as "close friend of someone especially; a friend of someone powerful (such as politician) who is unfairly given special treatment or favors". The definition itself has explained the privileged of the word. It's unavoidable for our country while we trying to open up our economy. In past, a handful of cronies has been created by former Junta. We see repeatedly them taking big national projects without necessarily bidding tender like outside world usually do. They will easily take profit-making business while other business people struggle with risky projects. By this way, there have been some tycoons in Burma in last decade time.

To be optimistic, it is good to see ethnic Burmese tycoons in business world domestically. Generally, Myanmar's business is per-dominated by ethnic Chinese and Indian business-men and group. Under level play ground, there is no way to compete those ethnic strong business group by our native people. The statistic shows that 70% of Myanmar's business are done by those ethnic Chinese and Indian. Then where gone our native people? Mostly they have to work for those rich ethnic people's factories or works. Our people gradually become poor and unable to access well education and health care. As a result, our people become poor and do all general works, once we shy away from. In history, such 3D jobs were taken by migrant workers from China and India. Now, those migrant worker's generation become rich and taking upperdog status. They know how to do business in corrupted world. They know where to bribe and how to make profit from work. They would help each other among their minority race community. By this way, local people become worker community and visiting people become rich community.

Fortunately, army is made of ethnic Myanmar races and they favor their relatives to get big job. This trend encourage to born Myanmar tycoons in the business world. I believe, most Burmese tycoon are buddhist and they will return their profit to support our religion. By this aspect, what if those profit went to Chinese and Indian business community. Definitely, they won't return those money to improve community service. Then, can we say that getting or creating crony community is better than giving those visiting people especially to muslim community business men. They will support their mosque and try to expend their community. Finally, they will make complete dominant upon our main religion, Buddhism. It's going to be happen unless our leaders are wise enough to prevent it by right policies. If this is a case to consider, I would personally prefer to see cronies community grow. Of course, it would be better to reduce inequality among poor and rich. But it will take sizable time to achieve. For a moment, Myanmar parliament has to make new laws and amend old outdated law in order to prevent people's benefit. Hope some cronies pay back in community development and regain people's confident in them.

May our cronies able to sympathize our people's plight by participating in democratic movement.