Author: Hla Min (Lifelong Learner)

  • Arzani Nay

    by Hla Min

    Updated : Apr 2026

    July 19

    • Celebrated in Burma as Arzani Nay (Martyrs’ Day).
    • On July 19, 1947, Bogyoke Aung San & several ministers were gunned down.

    Memories of my cousin

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is image-13.png
    Daw Myint Thwe
    • Daw Myint Thwe (Betty, now GBNF) was born on July 19, 1934.
    • She was celebrating her birthday on July 19, 1947 when the sad news were announced via the sirens. The birthday celebration was put on hold.

    Arzanis

    Bogyoke Aung San
    Arzani Nay
    • Bogyoke Aung San — Untimely death at the age of 32
    • Thakin Mya — Minister without Portfolio; “Deputy Prime Minister”; Leader of AFPFL faction
    • Deedok U Ba Cho — Journalist; Publisher
    • Mahn Ba Khaing — saved Bogyoke from the British police
    • Sao San Htun (Mongpawn Sawbwa) — died the following day at the hospital
    • U Ba Win — Elder brother of Bogyoke; Father of Dr. Sein Win
    • U Razak — Early graduate from National College; Principal of National School in Mandalay
    • ICS U Ohn Maung — Was asked to give a presentation on behalf of Saw San Po Thin
    • Yebaw Ko Htwe — Body guard of U Razak

    Absentees & Survivors

    • Three ministers (U Tin Tut, U Kyaw Nyein & Saw San Po Thin) did not attend the meeting on July 19, 1947.
    • U Tin Tut became a victim of political assassination shortly after Independence. He was already assigned to be Burmese Ambassador of the United Kingdom.
    • U Kyaw Nyein and U Ba Swe led Ti Mye (တည်မြဲ Stable AFPFL faction). They lost the No-confidence motion against U Nu and the Thant Shin (သန့်ရှင်း Clean AFPFL faction). The AFPFL split led to Caretaker Government (pseudo Coup d’etat).
    • Saw San Po Thin was on a tour of duty.
    • According to Phaw Kaung ဖေါ်ကောင် Ba Nyunt, he could not find U Nu (Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies) at his office.
    • A few ministers (Pagan U Ba Gyan, U Aung Zan Wai, Pyaw Bwe U Mya …) who were seated at the far side of the meeting table escaped.
    • U Ba Gyan is the elder brother of U Ba Shan (Secretary of Maths Curriculum Committee). He sat down on the floor but was holding the edge of the table. He had a gunshot wound on a finger.
    • U Aung Zan Wai was a signer of the Pinlon (Panlong) Agreement.
    • Pyaw Bwe U Mya’s spouse is a distant cousin of Bogyoke. His plan to have more security at the Secretariat was turned down by Bogyoke.
    • Bogyoke’s body guards include Natmauk Phone Kyaw (writer) and Bo Tun Hla (Tekkatho Nay Win, writer & actor). Bo Tun Hla and Deputy Secretary U Tin Ohn were in an adjoining room in the Secretariat. Dr. Tin Wa (son of U Tin Ohn) was interviewed by BBC Burmese program.

    Family members & relatives of Arzanis

    • U Aung San Oo, Aung San Lin (GBNF) and Daw Aung San Suu Kyi — children of Bogyoke
    • Dr. Khin Hla Cho & Daw Khin Myint Cho (UCC) — grand children of Deedok U Ba Cho
    • Daw Myint Myint Khaing (Maths Sayama) — daughter of Mahn Ba Khaing. She transcribed the tapes for the book about Saya U Ba Toke. Her spouse Dr. Khin Maung Swe (Tekkatho Maung Thin Char) interviewed Saya and wrote the book.
    • Sao Hso Holm & Sao Khai Pha — sons of Sao San Tun. Sao Hso Holm was First Class English Honors and had two Law degrees. He was a regular columnist for WPD Supplement on Modern Burmese Writings. In 1962, the Sawbwas requested his legal services. He was detained by the Revolutionary Council. After serving in the Education Ministry, he and his family migrated to Australia.
    • Saya Dr. Sein Win (Maths) — son of U Ba Win
    • U Tin Myint (GBNF) & U Hla Kyi — sons of U Razak. Both are Geologists and Old Members of RUBC.
    • Saya U Tin Maung Thein (EE), Francis & Saya Dr. Min Myint (Chem) — sons of U Ohn Maung
    • Daw Nge Ma Ma Than (UCC) — niece of Bogyoke & U Ba Win; She became a Prisoner of Conscience.

    Arzani Beikman / Martyrs’ Mausoleum

    In our younger days, we walked to Shwe Dagon Pagoda on Saturdays.

    We would occasionally stop by at the “Arzani Beikman” (Martyr’s Mausoleum). Nine Oke Gu’s were on display. Four Oke Gus flanked on each side of Bogyoke’s Oke Gu.

    Near the Beikman were two more Oke Gu’s : one for ICS U Tin Tut and another for Bo Sein Hman.

    Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint’s article about the “Empty Tomb” mentioned that his Bagyee U Tin Tut was cremated at the special crematorium set up at Kyandaw Cemetery and that his ashes were scattered into a river.

    Fast forward.

    The “attempted massacre of Chung Doo Wan and his party” was carried out by three North Korean agents.

    One set of bombs did not go off and thus spared the lives of the Burmese contingent led by Minister U Aung Kyaw Myint. U Soe Min, Deputy Director of Myanmar Ah Than TV, was hit by shrapnel, but he survived. The award winning Kyemon reporter, who switched duties to cover the event, was killed.

    The higher authorities dictated the design of the new Arzani Beikman. No roofs were placed on top of the monolithic “Gu”. Some architects posted about their role in the project.

    Several writers noted that the then Number One never attended the ceremonies. A few hinted that he was a member of the Thakin Ba Sein faction of AFPFL and had some grudges for those from the Thakin Mya faction. He banned horse racing for the public and closed the Rangoon Turf Club. He supposedly had fun (e.g. attending derbies) most July in UK.

    Protocol change

    Over the years, the protocol changed. The families of the fallen leaders were no longer invited to State functions and dinners.

    First tier leaders did not attend the Martyrs’ Day functions. Only Second tier leaders showed up as token of duty.

    The family members of the Arzanis were not allowed time to pay physical respect. They were given time only to lay the “Lwan Thu Pann Khwe”.

    At one time, the public was barred from paying respect, and those who tried were detained.

    The Martyr’s day regained importance during the Pwint Linn era,

    Articles, books and documentaries

    I have read several articles (e.g. by Tekkatho Nay Win).

    I read the earlier edition of the book “Who killed Aung San?” by Kin Oung (former Naval Officer living in Australia). His father U Tun Hla Oung arrested Galon U Saw. His father-in-law U Thaung Sein (then Secretary of Insein Prison, later Justice) kept watch of U Saw so that U Saw and his team can be tried by a Special Tribunal headed by U Kyaw Myint (father of Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint).

    I saw the BBC’s production titled, “Who REALLY killed Aung San?”

    Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint wrote: On the BBC Programme, U Kin Oung, was interviewed. He is the author of three editions of “Who killed Aung San”. The fourth edition was more comprehensive as he had access to government documents thanks to freedom of information act. The last version was titled “Eliminate the Elite”.

    Kin Oung’s book

    Notes

    • I wrote “AUNG SAN” for Bogyoke’s Centennial in 2015.
    • Bo Tun Hla (Tekkatho Nay Win, Bogyoke’s PSO) wrote memoirs in the Arzani Nay Supplement.
    • The articles in Kyemon and several posts on the Internet groups reiterated the values of the fallen leaders.
    • Thakin Mya was considered as Deputy Prime Minister.
    • Deedok U Ba Choe was a distinguished journalist and a “Hin Lay Oh”.
    • Daw Marie Hla Taw drove Bogyoke to Mahn Ba Khaing’s place (preventing Bogyoke’s arrest by the police). Mahn Ba Khaing helped Bogyoke get back to the safe area.
    • Sao San Htun was hospitalized. He passed away (the following day) on July 20, 1947. There is a hospital in Taunggyi named in his honor.
    • U Ba Win was a dedicated teacher. He entered politics late to support Bogyoke (his younger brother & former student). His son Dr. Sein Win served as Prime Minister of the Burmese Government in exile.
    • U Razak (Principal) was highly regarded by staff & students of Amyotha Kyaung (National High School). Several sayadaws from Mandalay nominated him to be Minister of Education.
    • Ko Htwe (U Razak’s yebaw) was gunned down by the assassins during their exit.
    • According to Dr. Tin Wa, his father U Tin Ohn was in an adjoining room in the Secretariat. U Ohn Maung (who was in the room earlier) was requested by Bogyoke to make a presentation.
    • Per Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint, gun shots were fired at his father’s house. The family members laid low and were not hurt. U Kyaw Myint was then Head of the tribunal that tried Galon U Saw. It was another episode in the “Who killed Aung San?”
    • Mounting evidence — from declassified documents — suggest the involvement of several British politicians and officers in the murder of Arzanis.
    • July 19, 1947 was a Dark Moment in the history of Burma. July 7 and July 8, 1962 would join as Dark Moments in Burma.

    Posts

    • Anniversaries
    • AUNG SAN
    • Dark moments in Burma
    • The Empty Tomb
    • U Kyaw Myint
  • Ogmore by the sea

    by Hla Min

    Updated : Apr 2026

    Trip to UK

    In September 2017, we visited the United Kingdom. My previous visit was in 1972.

    Wales 1
    Wales 2
    Wales 3

    Hosts

    My cousin nephew Dr. Khin Tun (Peter) and his spouse Daw Win Mar hosted us with sumptuous dinner almost every day. They both loved cooking.

    Southern Wales

    They also drove us to Southern Wales to visit Maung Maung Kyi (SPHS63) and his spouse Khin May Than (ChE72) at their new house at Ogmore by the sea.

    Maung Maung Kyi was a Best Man at my wedding.

    We were classmates for Stds VIII(A), IX(A) & X(A)at SPHS (St. Paul’s High School) and I.Sc.(A).

    We rowed together at RUBC (Rangoon University Boat Club). He was Bow. I was No.(2). Kyaw Wynn was No. (3). Myint Soe (Willie Soe Maung) was Timing Stroke. All are SPHS63. Myint Thein (SPHS62) was Cox.

    When the Universities were closed following the first Anniversary celebration of 7th July, Maung Maung Kyi & Kyaw Wynn accepted Scholarship to study at Dresden University in Germany.

    Wales 4

    After his return, Maung Maung Kyi worked for Sittang Paper Mill and PCIC. He found his soul mate. They later moved to Wales.

    They lost their beloved son Rimon (Medical doctor, Squadron Leader in the Royal Air Force, Leader of the Rescue Team) in an avalanche. They heard the sad news a short time after they had landed in Yangon, and had to hurry back to the UK for their son’s last journey.

    After that, Maung Maung Kyi rarely spoke and smiled. Khin May Than walked twice a day along the beach, and painted to ease her aches and pains.

    That changed when we visited them.

    There’s another reason. They gave their old house to their second son Dr. Khemar Than who had spent time in Japan and came back to see his parents. They meet on most weekends.

    Wales 5

    Updates

    Maung Maung Kyi and Peter Tun are now GBNF.

    See my posts about them.

  • Poems

    by Hla Min

    Updated : Apr 2026

    To the Fallen Warrior

    To the Fallen Warrior
    • Independence Movement & the Warriors
    • “Taw Hlan Yay Nay” (တော်လှန်ရေးနေ့ Resistance Day) is celebrated in March. The resistance officially started on March 27, 1945. Bohmu Ba Htoo had started the resistance earlier, but it was made to look like a random sporadic act of defiance. The town which housed the early military training school was named “Ba Htoo Myo ဗထူးမြို့”
    • “Lut Latt Yay Nay” (လွတ်လပ်ရေးနေ့ Independence Day) is celebrated in January. The Union Jack was lowered and the Union Flag was flown on January 4, 1948. The time 4:20 AM may have been suggested by an astrologer.
    • Many civilians and armed personnel put their lives on the line in their support for a Democratic and Independent Union of Burma.
    • Saying “The pen is mightier than the sword.”

    Forward Magazine

    • My poem “To the fallen warrior” was published in Forward Magazine.
    • Bohmu Ba Thaw (Maung Thaw Ka) was Chief Editor.
    • U Sein Hla was Assistant Editor.
    • I received Fifteen Kyats for my poem.
    • The artist who illustrated my poem received Fifty Kyats.

    The Phaundaw-u Festival

    Phaungdaw-u Festival
    • I wrote a poem “The Phaungdaw-u Festival” for the Thadinkyut Supplement of Working People’s Daily (WPD).
    • I visited Inlay Lake four times.
    • My first visit was in the summer of 1965 as Tekkatho Luyechun for the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp.
    • My second visit was in October, 1965. I accompanied Ko Aung Kyaw (Peter Pe, SPHS, Movie Star) and Ko Maung Maung Aye (SPHS, IM1, GBNF) to Inlay and Taunggyi. Peter’s cousins (including a medical doctor) live in In Paw Khone in Inlay. Peter’s uncle U Maung Maung Latt was Ah Mat Choke (အမတ်ချုပ်) in Taunggyi. We saw first hand the famous Phaungdaw-u Festival.
    • My third visit was in the mid 2010s. We took a tour package (air travel, hotel, car & boat) to Inlay. We stayed at a hotel in Inlay and then visited selected places in a chartered boat. We were sad to see the declining state of Inlay (e.g. water level). We spent some time in Taunggyi and the nearby cave in Ho Pone.
    • My fourth visit was in January 2020 as the final leg of the Professional Speakers Association’s tour.

    The Ngapali Beach

    The Ngapali Beach
    • My poem “The Ngapali Beach” was published in the Forward Magazine on March 2, 1970.
    • I received fifteen kyats for my poem.
    • The illustrator received fifty kyats.
    • Bohmu Ba Thaw (Maung Thaw Kha) was Chief Editor.
    • U Sein Hla was Assistant Editor.

    Visits

    • My first visit was during my student days. My cousin and friends stayed at the Bungalow owned by U Tha Gyaw Wai and managed by my uncle. At a nearby bungalow was a movie crew by Amyotha Yoke Shin အမျိုးသားရုပ်ရှင် with U San Maung (Gerald, RUBC Gold and Coach). Ko Gerald asked me if I would be interested to join them on the way back via Taung Goke. We were hosted by a cinema owner. He offered the movie audience a free show if they could translate the Burmese titles into English. One submission was “Fly away bitter bird” (Pyan Lay dei Nget Khar ပျံလေတဲ့ငှက်ခါး)
    • My second visit was with my beloved spouse and two young sons. We stayed at the Bungalow owned by Amyotha Yoke Shin and managed by U Mya Maung (elder brother of Saya U Tin Htut).
    • My third visit was as Guest Lecturer for the Ngapali Luyechun Camp. I spent some time chatting with other Guest Lecturers including Saya U Kyaw Myint (Director of Higher Education, former Professor of Physics at Mandalay).
    • Hantha Aye Nylon — the parents of Than Than Yee (T71) and Sann Aung (M74) — also owned a Bungalow.
    • The Hotel and Tourist Corporation built the first hotel in Ngapali.
    • I know a few people who have taken almost yearly trips to Ngapali.

    Our Unity

    Our Unity
    • My poem “Our Unity” was published in WPD (Working People’s Daily) for Pyidaung Su Nay (Union Day). It was written as a dream.
    • Hlaing Phyo is one of my pen names.
    • I received fifteen kyats for my poem.
    • G Ko Lay (RUBC Gold) was Chief Editor of WPD. His spouse : Daw Nyunt Nyunt Win (Physics, RASU Registrar)
    • Former Chief Editors of WPD include U Khin Maung Latt (father of Saya Dr. Khin Maung Win, grand father of Maung Yit and Junior Win) and U Than Saw (grand father of KMZ’s spouse).

    Tekkatho Moe War wrote : This is really an amazing verse to read, especially for a poetry lover, be it in any language, so to speak.

    Updates

    • Several are GBNF. They include Bohmu Ba Thaw, U Ko Lay, U Mya Maung, U San Maung, U Khin Maung Latt, U Than Saw, Than Than Yi & Sann Aung

    Posts

    • Kabyar
    • Newsletter
    • Poetry
    • Publications
    • Rhyme
    • Translation
  • U Tin U & U Ba Than

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    HMEE

    Association of Engineers in Burma after World War

    • Told by Saya U Tin U — Interview for HMEE Project
    • Recorded by Saya U Ba Than
    • The Association was re-instituted about 1955-56.
    • President :
      Sayagyi U Ba Hli (Dean of Engineering, University of Rangoon, GBNF)
    • Honorary Secretary :
      Saya U Soon Sein (Professor, Mining, GBNF)
    • Honorary Treasurer :
      Saya U Tin U (Part time Lecturer, Civil)

    U Tin U

    U Tin U at SPZP-2012

    Highlights

    • Matriculated from St. John’s Dio in 1946.
    • Attended Rangoon University before going for studies in the USA.
    • Represented RUBC in the Independence Day Regatta at Kandawgyi in 1948 along with Dr. Pe Nyun, Dr. Pe Thein and Khin Maung Wint (Bobby).
    1948 Independence Day Regatta
    • Received BCSE from the University of Oregon and MCSE from Yale University.
    • Upon his return to Burma, he worked in the industry and taught part-time at the Civil Engineering department.
    • Past Captain of Rangoon Golf Club
    • Oldest & Most Senior Past Captain of RUBC

    Three Losses

    • Lost his spouse Dr. Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt in November 2019
    • Lost his elder son Dr. Khin Tun (Peter) in April 2020
    • Lost his son-in-law U Tin Tun in May 2020
    U Tin U & Family
    U Tin U 3

    U Ba Than

    U Ba Than

    Highlights

    • Matriculated from St. John’s Dio in 1947, and won the Collegiate Scholarship.
    • In 1949, he won Gold Medal for scoring highest marks in the Intermediate of Science exam.
    • RUBC Full Green
    • Studied Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College, London University
    • Joined Faculty of Engineering as Assistant Lecturer
    • As a requirement for promotion, he did Masters at Imperial College.
    • Retired as Professor of Mechanical Engineering.
    Mech Engg Sayas
    • Saya is an early supporter of the HMEE-2012 project.
      Donated his photo albums.
      Cooperated with U Thaw Kaung to allow U Soe Paing & team to access the archives of Rangoon University Central Library.

    Birthdays

    • Celebrations
    Birthday
    Soon Kyway
    • Before the pandemic, he invited colleagues and former students to his Birthday Soon Kyway at Yaw Sayadaw’s Monastery.
    • U Tin Htoon (A60, younger brother) compiled a Photo Album for Saya’s 90th Birthday
    U Ba Than
    • Donated all of the Garawa Money to various social & religious associations.
    • Passed away peacefully after his 94th birthday.
    U Ba Than & Daw Mya Mya
    U Ba Than & Family

    Updates

    • Four of the nine siblings are members of the 90+ Club like their mother.
    • U Tin U (eldest) passed away on Aug 19, 2025 — a few weeks after his 96th birthday. He was the most senior Past Captain of RUBC. He was also the oldest Yale University alumni from Burma.
    • U Ba Than (2nd oldest) passed away after his 94th birthday.
    • Dr. Daw Win Hlaing (Ruby, 3rd) celebrated her 93rd birthday on Aug 31, 2025.
    • Daw Myint Thwe (Betty, 4th) passed away two months before her 91st birthday.
  • UCC (Talk)

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    Video Broadcast

    • Wrote 40+ posts on “Memories of UCC”.
    • A summary was published in the Magazine for the 30th Anniversary of the founding of ICST.

    Founders

    • Sayagyi Dr. Chit Swe founded Universities’ Computer Center with the help of Saya U Soe Paing, Saya U Myo Min, and Saya U Ko Ko Lay
    • They led TOSS (Team Of System Specialists), which assisted the computerization of government departments and organizations.

    Dr. Chit Swe

    Dr. Chit Swe
    • My mentor at UCC
    • Alumnus of Mandalay University; Imperial College, London University; University of Glasgow; University of Liverpool
    • Head of Maths Department at the Institute of Economics when he proposed the UCC project
    • Became Professor of Maths at RASU and Founder-Director of UCC
    • Retired as Rector of RASU
    • Continued teaching and supervising research in Thailand and Australia.
    • Passed away in Sydney Australia in late 2019.
    Obituary

    U Soe Paing

    U Soe Paing
    • My mentor at RIT & UCC
    • Matriculated from St. Paul’s High School in 1956. He stood 13th in the whole of Burma and won Collegiate Scholarship
    • In the RU Convocation in 1958, he won two medals: one for highest score for combined I.Sc. (A) and I.Sc.(B), and another for joint highest score for Mathematics in combined I.Sc.(A) and I.Sc.(B).
    • While attending classes at the Faculty of Engineering, he was awarded a Government Scholarship to study BSEE and MSEE at Stanford University.
    • In 1964, he joined EE Department at RIT as Assistant Lecturer.
    • Helped with the UCC Project.
      In April 1971, Saya transferred to UCC as Manager of Systems Division.
    • M.Sc. (CS) from University of Southampton, UK
    • Wrote “Computer Ah Sa UCC Ga” in a computer magazine in Myanmar. It was re-posted in “Mandalay Gazette”
    • Retired from UN after working on UN projects in several countries.
    • In July 2020, he gave an interview to MASTAA.

    U Myo Min

    U Myo Min
    • Matriculated as a top student from SPHS in 1958.
    • Won a Gold medal in 1960 for standing first among the I.Com students.
    • Won another Gold medal in 1962 for standing first among the B.Com (Accounting) students.
    • Chartered Account
    • Worked for IBM UK
    • Returned to Burma
    • Joined UCC as Manager of Applications
    • Masters in System Engineering from the University of Lancaster, UK
    • Later worked in Singapore and USA

    U Ko Ko Lay

    U Ko Ko Lay
    • Classmate of U Soe Paing at SPHS and Stanford University.
    • While attending classes at the Faculty of Engineering, he was awarded a Government Scholarship to study BSCE and MSCE at Stanford University.
    • Joined PWD as an assistant engineer.
    • Dr. Chit Swe & U Soe Paing recruited him to help with the UCC project.
    • In April 1971, Saya transferred to UCC as Manager of Operations Division
    • Masters in System Engineering from the University of Lancaster, UK
    • Later served as Manager for Scientific Applications at UCC, Professor of Computer Science at DCS, and Professor of Information Systems at ICST.
    • He is GBNF.

    Posts

    • Computer Science, Technology and Applications
    • Computing Pioneers in Burma
    • Memories of UCC — Series of articles
    • Paying back to my alma mater
    • UCC Founders
    • @hmin3664 — to access my videos
    YouTube Channel for my videos
  • Distinguished Monks

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    U Lokanatha (Italian Buddhist Monk)

    A book changed his life

    U Lokanatha
    • Mr. Salvitore was working as a Chemist in the USA.
    • Received a book as Christmas present from his supervisor. A chapter was “Dhammapada”.
      After reading it, Samvega (sense of urgency) crept in.
    • Quit his job. Left for Burma to be ordained as a Buddhist monk. Became “U Lokanatha”.
    • Wrote “I became a Buddhist. My supervisor remained a Christian.”
    • Was from a devout Catholic family. Elder brother was a Priest.
    • My paternal grand mother offered a monastery for U Lokanatha in Bawdigone (Windermere), Rangoon.
    • Practiced Dhutanga. Preached & took Dhamma Dhuta missions to India and Ceylon.
    • Passed away in Maymyo in 1966.

    Ashin Ananda

    (Latvian monk)

    Fled Communist Rule

    • Rev. Friedrich V. Lustig’s mentor was the Buddhist Archbishop of Latvia and Lithuania. When the Communists invaded their country, they sought refuge in Burma. The government provided them a monastery in the “Ah Le Pyit Sa Yan” of Shwe Dagon Pagoda.

    Moke Seit

    • Known as “Moke Seit Phone Gyi” for his beard. Came for alms to our parent’s house in Windermere Road.
    • After his mentor’s demise, he became Buddhist Archbishop of Latvia & Lithuania.

    Ashin Ananda

    • Shaved his beard
    • Ordained as a Theravada monk with the title “Ashin Ananda”
    • Laureate Poet & Translator.
      Wrote poems in English.
      Translated selected Burmese poems into English.
    • In July 1969, he gave my poem “Men on the Moon” to Mr. Hall (USIS) to be forwarded to Apollo 11 astronauts. Gave a copy to the Guardian newspaper for publication.
    Men on the Moon

    U Thilawuntha (Mon Sayadaw)

    Built pagodas worldwide

    Dat Poung Zon Sayadaw
    Mon Sayada
    • Dat Paung Zon Aung Min Gaung Sayadaw U Thilawunta (fondly known as “Mon Sayadaw”) built pagodas in Burma/Myanmar, USA, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and several other countries.
    • In the ’50s, Sayadaw visited the United Nations and U Thant. He built the first Burmese pagoda in the Allegheny mountains near New York.
    First pagoda in USA
    • During his visit to California, Sayadaw would spend time with his devotees such as Russell Wolfe (Santa Cruz) and U Aung Myint (Donald, Milpitas).

    Sayadaw U Zeya

    Monastery in Las Vegas

    • Las Vegas has some monasteries including Thai monasteries supported by members of the Royal Family.
    • Sayadaw resided at a Thai monastery and rose up in the ranks. Gave dhamma talks in Thai, English & Burmese.
      Several devotees offered him a monastery.
    • In May 2013, several dhamma friends in the Bay Area rented a van to attend “Htee Tin Pwe” of the pagoda inside U Zeya’s monastery compound.
    • Donated for two Nagas at the Las Vegas Monastery in memory of our parents and in-laws.

    Engineers & Architects

    Dr. Lwin Aung (A59)

    Dr. Lwin Aung
    • Entered monk-hood after retirement
    • Was Professor of Architecture and Pro-Rector of YTU
    • Volunteered as a Consulting Architect for the construction of dhamma buildings
    • Due to health, he left monk-hood after several vassa.

    U Bo Gyi (A59)

    U Bo Gyi
    • Founded “Architect Incorporated” with U Tin Htoon (A60) & U Aung Kyee Myint (A60)
    • Later joined PWD along with his partners
    • Designed Mausoleum for Daw Khin Kyi, and was shunned by the higher authorities.
    • Hobbies : music (piano) and modeling (sculpture)
    • He is now GBNF.

    U Han Nyo (Met60)

    • He helped conduct meditation retreats in Southern California and Mexico.

    U Myo Tun (A69)

    U Myo Tun
    • Ashin Pannagavesaka
    • Won prizes for essays under the name “Errol Than Tun”
    • Made dhamma duta mission to Vietnam
    • Was Dhamma Librarian for Moulmein Pa Auk Tawya Monastery
    • Edited Pa Auk Sayadaw’s books
    • Taught English to Dhammacariya Sayadaws

    U Aung Chaw (C69, SPHS63)

    U Aung Chaw
    • Ashin Ukkamsa
    • Resided in Sagaing
    • Later moved to the Irrawaddy Delta region
    • Met him in 2018 when he came to Yangon. Attended some breakfast gatherings by the 69ers. Kyaw Win (SPHS63) offered soon to Sayadaw at Shwe Ba Htamin Saing, and also offered Nawakamma.

    U Wara (Win Paing, ChE70, SPHS64)

    U Wara
    • Younger brother of Saya U Soe Paing (EE, UCC)
    • Entered monkhood after the Final Year ChE exam
    • Chief Resident Sayadaw, KabaAye Sun Lun Gu Kyaung
    • Was Taik Oke Sayadaw for Sayadaw U Vinaya
    • He is now GBNF

    U Jotika (EE73)

    • Prolific writer and an outstanding Dhamma Lecturer
    • Spent vasa at Taung Pu Lu Kaba Aye monastery in Boulder Creek
    • Revisited US about a decade ago
    • Frequently visited Singapore and other neighboring countries

    Ashin Pannobhasa (M91)

    • Met him in SF Bay Area with his mentor (Sayadaw from Myanmar).
    • Born in April 1966 Thursday (2nd Waning day of Kason 1328 BE) in Pyapon, Irrawaddy Division.
    • After finishing his Mechanical Engineering degree from Yangon (Rangoon) Institute of Technology he received higher ordination as a Bhikkhu or a monk at the age of 24 in the Ordination Hall, Pyapon Mahasi Sasana Yeiktha under the preceptor of Venerable U Vannita, Pyapon Mahasi Sayadaw, Pyapon Mahasi Sasana Yeiktha on 27th July 1991.
    • Chief Resident Monk at a monastery in Seattle, Washington
  • Allen Htay

    by Hla Min

    Updated : Apr 2026

    Highlights

    • Born in Mandalay
    • Eldest of five siblings
    • Matriculated from Yegyaw Methodist. U Thit was a year senior to him.
    • Some friends call him “Bo Htay” or “Htay Bo Htay”.
    • His mother told him not to apply for State Scholarship before graduation.

    Civil 1958

    C58
    • Graduated in 1958 with Civil Engineering
    • Classmates : Dr. San Hla Aung, Dr. Win Thein, Khin Mg Win (Sid), Oscar Sharazee

    Saya

    • Joined Civil Engg Dept as Assistant Lecturer

    States Scholar

    • Received State Scholarship to study in the USA
    • Masters from Harvard. Also attended some courses at MIT (e.g. “SCHEME” / Lexically scoped Lisp). Programmed his calculator using Reverse Polish Notation
    • Returned to Burma on an ocean liner with U Tin Maung Nyunt, U Soe Paing and U Ko Ko Lay.

    RIT

    • Promoted to Lecturer
    • President, RIT Photography Association
    • Supervised C73 Final Year project, where his students — Dennis Mackey & George Peters — used UCC computer.

    UN Project

    • Advisor in Bengladesh

    USA

    SF Bay Area

    SF Bay Area Alumni Group
    • Leader of SF Bay Area Group, which formed “RIT Alumni International”
    SF Bay Area Alumni
    • Founding member & President of RIT Alumni International
    SPZP-2000 Organizers
    • Core Organizer of SPZP-2000. His article “Brother, can you afford $500 and more?” saved the organizers from U Nyo Win’s Act.

    BAPS

    • Took me to BAPS picnic. Demonstrated “Burmese Goodbye” by taking an hour to greet alumni on the way back to his car.
    • To avoid monotony, he took a different route going out and coming back. He did not mind missing an exit; he would simply make a turn at the next one.

    Mini-gatherings

    • He, Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt, U Ko Ko Aye, Ko Thein Naing (Patrick) and me would meet monthly to have Coffee / Tea & Dosa တိုရှည် and chat.
    • Sometimes, Dr. San Lin would come down from Santa Rosa to see Saya U Soe Khaw. Saya Allen & I would join them for lunch gathering, which extended until dinner.
    With Dr. San Lin

    Interest

    • He has interest in Comparative Religion & Culture. Saya U Aung’s anecdote mentioned Saya’s visit to a mosque & Burmese Buddhist Temple in Singapore.

    Retire & Un-retire

    • He retired twice.
    • Was coaxed by his former students to un-retire twice. Saya U Thein Aung (Met72) requested him to work at the Lawrence Livermore Lab at UC Berkeley. Later, Saya U Myat Htoo (C68) requested him to work as Consultant for CalTrans.
    • Passed away before his final retirement.

    Health

    • Survived two Strokes.
    • Succumbed to the Stroke at the MEHS Reunion in Las Vegas. He accompanied his spouse Daw Mu Mu Kin (MEHS57) to the Reunion.
    • Did not live long enough to see his four grandsons. Two have “Allen” in their names.
    • May he rest in peace.

    Donations

    • In Saya’s memory, Daw Mu Mu Kin donated Sayas’ books to YTU Library. She also offered scholarship to eligible YTU students via NorCal RITAA.
    Two Sayas


    Brief Bio

    • Initial version provided at SPZP-2000
    Saya Allen Htay and Daw Mu Mu Kin
    • Born in Mandalay, attended St. Joseph English Convent and St. Peter’s Boys’ School in Mandalay and the Methodist High School in Rangoon.
    • Graduated B Sc (Engg) in Civil Engineering in 1958 from Rangoon University and joined the Faculty of Engineering as Assistant Lecturer in the same year at the invitation of Prof T Ba Hli, then Dean of Engineering.
    • Awarded the Burmese Government State Scholarship for study in the United States from 1960 to 1963, and the US Government Fulbright Travel Grant.
    • Received the degree of Master of Engineering from Harvard University in 1963, specializing in Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering.
    • Returned to Burma and joined the newly formed Rangoon Institute of Technology in Gyogon.
    • Served as Lecturer in Civil Engineering from 1964 to 1975, except from 1966 to 1968 which was spent on advanced study in Hydraulics Engineering in the Netherlands at Delft Technical University under UNESCO assistance program for Burma.
    • Immigrated to USA in 1975. Currently working at the California Department of Transportation as Project Engineer.
    • Married to Mu Mu Kin in 1971 and have two surviving children, Myo Lynn and Thuzar Kin. Mu Mu works at TIBCO Software Inc in Palo Alto to supplement the family income.

    Work Experience

    • Soils Engineer: Mueser Rutledge Wentworth and Johnston, New York, NY, 1975-1978.
    • Washington DC Metro Subway Project. Civil Engineer: International Engineering Company, Inc, San Francisco, CA, 1978-1983.
    • USAID Bangladesh Fertilizer Warehouses Construction Project.
    • Senior Staff Engineer: Morrison Knudsen Corporation, San Francisco, CA, 1984-1996.
    • DOE Uranium Mill Tailings Remedial Action Project.
    • Principal Research Associate: Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, 1997.
    • DOE Yucca Mountain High Level Radioactive Materials Repository Project.
    • Transportation Engineer: California Department of Transportation, Oakland, CA, 1999-.
    • Toll Bridge Program- Project Development/Project Controls.

    My dear parents gave me birth and brought me up to be a good son. My teachers taught me everything else I know. My land of birth, Myanmar, through the sweat and hard work of its citizens supported and paid for my engineering education and my studies abroad. To each and everyone I am obligated and I give my thanks. For it is narrated in Al-Hadith that one who does not thank one another in this life even for little favors is unworthy to thank the Lord for the big favor.

    Civil 1958 Photo

    • Submitted by Saya Allen Htay
    • Dr. San Hla Aung helped to identify classmates
    • U Khin Maung Win (Sidney Chen) supplied the photo
    Class of C58
    Class of Civil 58

    Sitting: (1) U Pu (2) Dr. Aung Gyi (3) U Min Wun (4) U Ba Hli (5) Mr. Redpath (6) U Ngwe Thein (7) Mr. Eswara (8) Mr. Num Kock

    1st Row: (1) Khin Maung (2) Than Aung (3) Htay Aung (4) Khin Maung Lwin (5) Kyaw Tin (6) Win Thein (7) Chit Pe (8) Shwe Tun Maung (9) Win Maung (10) Thein Lwin (11) Tun Yi (12) Than Pe

    2nd Row: (1) V. Kumar (2) Kyaw Hoe (3) Allen Htay (4) Ba Hnin Chit (5) Kyaw Mya (6) Kyaw Din (7) Irwin Myaing (8) Chit Aye (9) Maung Maung (10) Nolan Wu (11) Morgan Singar

    3rd Row: (1) Patrick George (2) Oscar Shirazee (3) Hla Shwe (4) Aung Par Thein (5) Saw Lwin (6) San Hla Aung (7) Shwe Win (8) Douglas Hoe (9) Sidney Chen

    Notes

    There was a mini-gathering at SPZP-2000. The attendees include

    • Mr. Num Kok (Portland, Oregon)
    • Dr. Aung Gyi (Ottawa, Canada)
    • U Min Wun (Los Angeles, California)
    • U Allen Htay (Mountain View, California)
    • Dr. San Hla Aung (New Orleans, Louisiana)
    • Mr. Oscar Shirazee (Middle East)

    When Sidney Chen’s health was failing, his daughter requested us to let his classmates and friends know that he was eager to regain contact with them. Sadly, he passed away.

    Mr. Oscar and U Aye Win Hlaing used to work in Iran many years ago. Mr. Oscar’s spouse is the sister of U Ngwe Zoe (Peter, SPHS57).

    Due to schedule conflicts, Saya Dr. San Hla Aung could not attend some SPZPs. He retired at the age of 80. He is now free to attend many SPZPs.

    Saya Dr. Win Thein succeeded Saya U Min Wun as Professor and Head of the Department. Except for a warning sign from an early Medical check up, Saya was healthy. He finally passed away in Yangon. His sister has donated Saya’s Garawa money to selected Charities.

    Brother, can you afford Five Hundred Dollars?

    And many weekends spent away from your family as well? If you can then you probably are a member of the RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe organizing committee.

    It all began one day several months ago when we met over lunch at Benny Tan’s home in Hillsborough. Ko Hla Min and Ko Khin Maung Zaw among the lunch party had started the RIT Alumni website and were receiving enthusiastic responses. Hearing that the duo were carrying on the project all by themselves we decided to throw in our moral and financial support to assure its survival, realizing that it was providing a needed service for the RIT alumni to locate and communicate with each other. Every one present, ten of us at that time, took out our checkbooks and wrote out one hundred dollars each, with promises of more as needed. We informally called ourselves the RIT Alumni Bay Area Group. I was asked to be the group leader.

    After that fateful event we continue to have regular meetings, hosted in turn at the homes of some among group members: Ko Hla Min, Maurice Chee, Ko Myat Htoo, Ko Thein Aung, and most recently Dr Nyo Win. Did I leave out any one? Ah yes! Ko Myint Swe and San San Swe. All the while the membership continues to grow and our objective keeps on changing from support of the website to some vague dream of a future RIT alumni organization on a global scale and finally settled on a plan for RIT Alumni Grand Reunion at the beginning of the 21st Century. Ko Hla Min broached the idea to include Saya Pu Zaw Pwe as part of the Grand Reunion in keeping with the Myanmar custom of honoring one’s teachers. As our plan jelled we got carried away by our own excitement and started talking about holding the reunion before the end of the Year 2000. After all, ending one millennium successfully augers well for success in the next millennium.

    Before we fully realized what we were up to we have found an ideal site, the Embassy Suites Hotel conference hall near the San Francisco International Airport, and found ourselves making a commitment for a definite date, 28 October 2000 and a attendance fee of fifty dollars, a modest amount to encourage maximum number of Alumni to participate. The minimum capacity of the conference hall is 200 seats and we were required to make down payment and sign a rental and service agreement based on 200 seats. Our most optimistic estimate at the time was 100 attendees. If the attendance is low that means the Bay Area Group, as the Organizing Committee was not in force at the time, will have to make up the short fall. Which could amount to as much as five thousand dollars, or five hundred dollar from each group member. We hesitated a moment to reflect on what that means to us individually in terms of diminished spending power. But, in the end our attachment to RIT and the engineering profession, our sincere desire to meet the Sayas and class mates from whom we were separated for long over came us. We will accept the risks.

    Thus was born the preparations in full swing for the Grand RIT Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. Others must tell the rest of the story – of struggles, compromises, and elations along the way and from participants themselves what it means to be present at the defining moment in the history of RIT Alumni.

    Allen Htay,
    RIT Alumni International – Bay Area Group
    RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe Organizing Committee


    Appreciation of SPZP-2000

    Hello All:

    Thanks and Congratulations for a well organized and well executed event. I believe we all went to bed early Sunday night irrespective of the change back to Standard Time (from Daylight Savings Time according to the rule “Spring forward, Fall back”) , and no doubt slept soundly and very happy, knowing full well what happened during the past three days is more than what we dared to dream. I for one took the Monday off and forgot lunch because I woke up so late. But what is one missed lunch!

    Allen Htay

    ____

    Dear Ko Maung Maung Than (M79):

    Thanks for your note of appreciation for the RIT Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. Everybody chipped in: the sayas, organizers, committee members, helpers, supporters like you which we were very fortunate to have, the alumni and general guests and well-wishers. We won’t be able to host an event of this magnitude and importance if any of the components were missing.

    Success belongs to everyone.

    Thanks again for your generous support

    Allen Htay


    Remembering Saya Allen Htay

    From Saya U Thit

    Dear Colleagues and students

    I am very sad to hear that Allen Htay passed away.

    I have known Allen Htay since the early 1950s when we were both students at Methodist High School, Yegyaw, East Yangon. He was one year junior to me.

    We were together again in the late 1950s when we were both Assistant Lecturers at B.O.C. Engineering College. During that time he and I together with Saya Num Kock and Saya U Aung Khin went for an excursion to visit Lawpita Hydroelectric Plant construction site near Loikaw, in Kayah State.

    While I was living on the R.I.T. campus in the early 1960s he moved to a house just across the street from us.

    I will always remember him coming to our house many times in the evenings for a chat with my family.

    The last time I saw him was at the 2004 Saya Puzawpwe in Yangon.

    He will be sadly missed by many of his friends and students.

    May his soul rest in Peace.

    Maung Thit (Metallurgy)
    Melbourne, Australia

    From the alumni in Australia

    By Ko “Henry” Thet Tun

    Our sincere and deepest condolences to Saya U Allen Htay & family for the demise of Saya.

    From the RIT Alumni Australia & Myanmar Engineering Association of Australia Inc.

    From Saya Dr. Tin Win (M62) and Daw Lily (T72)

    Dear Ko Hla Min,

    We are very much saddened by the departure of Saya Allen Htay. Please convey our heartfelt condolences to Daw Mu Mu and family. His good nature and kind demeanor will always live in our memory and that of those who loved him.

    While we will all miss Saya Allen very much, I hope all his loved ones can find some slight comfort in knowing that his suffering has ended.

    Very Sincerely,
    Tin Win and Lily.

    From Ko Kyaw Thu (Dennis Mackey)

    Dear Ko Hla Min,

    Without the RIT Alumnu Updates, I would not have known about the passing of our (me and George Peters) final year thesis supervisor Saya U Allen Htay.

    Thank you for your regular as well as supplement updates.

    Please convey our deepest condolences to Daw Mu Mu and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time of great loss and sadness.

    Best regards,
    Dennis (Kyaw Thu) (C73) and Alice U

    Editor’s Notes:
    Dennis and Alice have relocated to Canada.

    From Saya U Soe Paing and Daw Saw Yu Tint

    My friend Allen Htay (GBNF)

    Some years ago I wrote an article for the ex-RIT.org about my saya friends at RIT which included Allen Htay.

    I met Allen Htay when I joined the 1st Year BSc (Engg) class at the Faculty of Engineering at Leikkhone in 1958 .Ko San Hla Aung was our drawing instructor for the main majors (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), and Allen Htay was the instructor for the rest.

    In December1958, I went on State Scholarship to Stanford University. When I returned home after completing my studies, I found myself on the same ship S S Warickshire from Liverpool to Yangon with Allen Htay, Ko Tin Maung Nyunt (Agri Eng) and Ko Ko Lay (UCC). There was also another Myanmar Ko Than Pe, a Chartered Accountant, on the ship. Those days it was customary for the Government to send the returning scholars by ship.

    We normally had our meals together seated at the Chief engineer’s table. After dinner we would play bridge to spend the time. Ko Ko Lay partnered with Ko Tin Maung Nyunt and Allen Htay and Ko Than Pe took turns as my partner against them. We played almost every night after dinner and all of us became very good friends.

    We got back to Yangon in October 1963. Allen Htay rejoined RIT. I was posted to RIT in January 1964 and Ko Tin Maung Nyunt in March 1964 and so we were together again. When I got married and moved into the RIT staff quarters I was at 16F, Allen Htay at 16E and Ko Tin Maung at 16D. We visited each others house very often. We also became friendly with Allen Htay’s brothers and sisters.

    I have attached a photo taken during Thingyan 1966 with Allen Htay (2nd from left) and his youngest brother (extreme right).

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is saya-allen-thingyan.jpg

    I left RIT for UCC and the UN, and Allen Htay and Ko Tin Maung Nyunt went to the United States. All of us met gain in the Bay Area in 1985, 2001 and 2010. I saw Allen Htay at the RIT reunions in 2004 (Yangon), 2007 and 2010 (Singapore).

    He could not make it to the 2012 reunion in Yangon because of his health. He was a mild mannered soft spoken gentleman and we will all miss him. May he rest in peace.

    Daw Mu Mu Kin (Saya’s Spouse)

    “Let me count the ways [to love]” by Elizabeth Browning is a poem present by Ma Ma Mu to Saya Allen.


    Donations in Saya Allen’s Memory

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is saya-allen-3.jpg

    In memory of Saya, Daw Mu Mu Kin

    • donated Saya’s books to YTU Library
    • provided cabinets for Saya’s books
    • sponsored scholarships for eligible YTU students

    Maurice Chee (M75) coordinated the donation of books.

    NorCal RITAA and some volunteer alumni from Yangon coordinated the selection of scholarship recipients.

    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-1.jpg
    Daw Mu Mu Kin (Saya’s spouse)
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-2.jpg
    Meeting
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-4.jpg
    Donation 1
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-5-1.jpg
    Donation 2
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-6.jpg
    Donation 3
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-7.jpg
    Donation 4
    This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Saya-Allen-8.jpg
    Donation 5

    Updates

    • Several sayas and alumni mentioned in the post are GBNF. They include Saya H Num Kok, Saya U Min Wun, Saya Allen Htay, Saya Dr. Win Thein, Saya U Thit, U Khin Maung Win, U Ngwe Zoe.

    Posts

    • C58
    • Civil Engineering
    • RIT Alumni International
    • RIT Sayas
    • SF Bay Area Alumni
    • SPZPs
  • To the Fallen Warrior

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    Poem ကဗျာ

    • Poem to honor Sarsodaws (စာဆိုတော်များ Writers) who struggled for Burma’s Independence
    • Published in Forward Magazine.
    • Bohmu Ba Thaw was Chief Editor. U Sein Hla was Editor.
    • Received Fifteen Kyats.

    Taw Hlan Yay

    (တော်လှန်ရေးနေ့)

    • Celebrated on March 27.
    • Later renamed as Armed Forces Day (to downplay the participation from all walks of life).

    Independence Day

    (လွတ်လပ်ရေးနေ့)

    • Celebrated on January 4.
    • It is not clear why 4:20 AM was chosen to replace the Union Jack with the Union Flag.

    Updates

    • Maung, Ko & U are prefixes for Burmese names.

    Posts

    • Holidays
    • Magazines
    • Poetry
    • Publications
    • Rhyme
  • October

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    Background

    • 8th month of the old Roman calendar. Oct means Eight.
    • 10th month of the Gregorian calendar.
    • It has 31 days.

    October 1

    Dr. Aung Gyi
    • Dr. Aung Gyi’s birthday
    U Myo Myint Sein
    • U Myo Myint Sein’s birthday

    October 2

    U Ba Than
    • U Ba Than’s birthday. Says offered soon dana for his birthday on or around October 2 at Yaw Sayadaw’s Kyaung. Sayas, former students and friends were invited to the soon kway. 69ers usually offered Garawa at Sayagyi’s place on or around his birthday.
    • Mini-gathering put on hold due to pandemic in 2020 & 2021. Zoom meetings were held on sayas’s birthday.
    • In 2020, Saya received 90th Birthday Present. Photo Album Book was compiled by U Tin Htoon and U Htaik San (Henry Kao). DHL Delivery was paid by Saya U Tin Htut
    • In 2021, Saya received a Photo Card present by U Tin Htoon

    October 5

    • International Teachers’ Day
    • Celebrated annually since October 5, 1994
    • Some countries have local Teachers’ Day

    Halloween

    • October 31 (i.e. the day before “All Saint’s Day” which falls on November 1).
    • Celebrated with “Trick or Treat” by the children and optional “Halloween Costume Party” by young and old adults.

    End of Buddhist Lent

    • Full Moon Day of Thadinkyut usually falls in October.
    • Phaung daw-u festival (in Inle Lake) is held on the Full Moon Day of Thadinkyut.

    Deepavali / Diwali

    • Celebrated by the Hindus around October.
    • Known as the “Festival of Lights”.

    October Revolution

    • Due to differences in Julian & Gregorian calendars, the Bolshevik Revolution is wrongly referred to as the “October Revolution”.

    Festivals

    • Ocktoberfest is a festival held in October.
    • The Annual Pumpkin Festival with the bragging rights to the “heaviest” Pumpkin is held along Highway 92 in Half Moon Bay in Northern California. The traffic is really bad in the area for most of October. The 7-mile strip takes an hour or more during the Festival period.

    October 2000

    • The First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000) was held in October 2000.
    • I wrote 64 “Countdown to the Reunion” and 36 “Post Reunion” (news & articles) for SPZP-2000 in my Newsletter and the ex-rit.org website.
    • I wrote a poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE”. It was published in the Commemorative Issue of “RIT Alumni Newsletter”.
    Newsletter

    October 2021

    • In October 2021, Covid-19 vaccines were offered. Many had at least one dose. Some had two or three doses (including Booster). However, there were mutations & variations of Covid spreading around the globe.

    Phaungdaw-u

    • Working People’s Daily (WPD) used to publish Supplements.
    • I wrote “Phaungdaw-u Festival” poem for the Thadinkyut Supplement.

    Phaung Daw-u Festival
    (Poem by Hla Min)

    Phaung Daw-u, oh Burma’s grandeur
    Can truly make our hearts sublime
    Its mystic charm and rhyme-less splendor
    Have firmly stood the test of time

    It lies deep in the heart of people
    It gives them courage and inspiration
    No wonder this festival has no equal
    It promises joy and veneration

    On board the r so scintillating
    Stood the four images of Lord Buddha
    For the Noble Truth are we vindicating?
    What lies deep under the completed tour?

    But one statue was left behind
    Because in writings we do find
    That should it ever leave the shrine
    There will be thunder and storm
    Thus a happy reunion on the morn of the full moon of Thadinkyut

    From floating islands the leg rowers came
    To take part in the race
    With their muscular frame, with might and main
    Their oars flashing at a rapid pace

    Festivities last all night long
    Dances to the company of ozi and gong
    Oh, prayers that fill the cool evening air
    May loving kindness prevail everywhere

    Posts

    • Birthdays
    • Calendar
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  • Aung Min

    by Hla Min

    Update : Apr 2026

    Aung Min (M69)

    Aung Min
    U Aung Min (M69)
    • We were in the same section in I.Sc (A) because Roll Numbers were based on Last Name. His Roll No. was B115. Mine was B116. B stands for Science Option. We did not choose the Bio Option (with the A prefix).
    • Chair, 69er Heath Care Fund
    • Super Organizer of 69er Activities
    • Called “Sein” Aung Min, “Platinum” Aung Min & “Rare Earth” Aung Min because he is extremely precious.

    Aung Min (EC66)

    Aung Min (EC66)
    • He had a micro-reunion in Singapore with his former classmate U Thaung Lwin.

    Aung Min (Pet73)

    • Passed away in April 2019
    • Had medical treatment in Thailand & in an ICU in Yangon. Was told 60% chance of recovery.
    Aung Min (Pet)

    Aung Min (Phy)

    • Saya of our I.Sc(A) class in 1963

    Aung Min (Thakin)

    • Went underground with his spouse
    • Returned & practiced indigenous medicine.
    • Spouse stayed behind.

    Sein Aung Min

    • Zat Min Tha ဇာတ်မင်းသား

    Saying

    • အောင် မင်း လွန် ရာ ကျ မယ်

    Aung Min Gaung

    • Street အောင်မင်းခေါင်လမ်း
    • Pagoda in Windermere ဓာတ်ပေါင်းစုံအောင်မင်းခေါင်စေတီ

    Posts

    • 69ers
    • A (Names)
    • Aung (Names)
    • M (Names)