NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) successfully sent Apollo-11 to land men on the moon and bring them safely back to the earth (as envisioned by JFK).
Apollo 11
Neil Armstrong — Civilian Commander; First man on the moon
Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin — Lunar Module Pilot; Second man on the moon
Michael Collins — Command Module Pilot
My Poem
The poem honoring the Apollo 11 Mission was published in the Guardian newspaper.
A copy of the poem was given to Mr. Hall (USIS), who forwarded it to NASA and the astronauts.
Updates
Neil Armstrong became a University Professor
For some time, Buzz Aldrin was depressed for not being the first to set foot on the Moon. He later competed in “Dancing with the Stars”.
Michael Collins reply to interviewers : “The mission needed three astronauts. I am 1/3 of the success.” He wrote a book.
Apollo 13 had a technical problem. The saga was recounted in a book and a movie.
Apollo 17 had a Scientist Astronaut.
A mini-history was published based on the interviews with Astronauts.
Fifth month in the old Roman Calendar, and it had 30 days. The month was given an extra day and renamed in honor of Julius Caesar.
Seventh month in the Gregorian Calendar.
My father’s birthday
My beloved fatherMy parents
Born on 1st July.
Passed away in his 80s.
Men on the Moon
Apollo 11 Mission
Eagle (Lunar Module) landed in Tranquility Bay on the Moon on July 20, 1969.
Neil Armstrong (Mission Commander) was the first to land on the moon.
Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin (Lunar Module Pilot) was the second to land on the moon.
Michael Collins (Command Module Pilot) circled the Moon and waited for his crew mates to return from the Moon.
I wrote a poem “Men on the Moon”. A copy was sent by Mr. Hall (Information Officer, USIA) to NASA. The poem was published in the Guardian.
Men on the Moon
US Independence
4th of July
Martyrs’ Day
July 19, 1947
Bogyoke Aung San, six ministers, a Secretary and a bodyguard were assassinated.
Translation of Invictus Aung San
Nine Arzanis were gunned down on July 19, 1947. Eight perished that day. One succumbed a day later.
Arzanis
Bogyoke Aung San passed away at the tender age of 32 Children : U Aung San Oo, Aung San Lin (GBNF), Daw Aung San Suu Kyi
Thakin Mya. : Considered as Deputy Prime Minister
Deedoke U Ba Cho : Minister, Journalist ; Grand children : Dr. Khin Hla Cho, Daw Khin Myint Cho
Mahn Ba Khaing : Transported Bogyoke (saved & brought by Marie Hla Taw) back; Daughter : Sayama Daw Myint Myint Khaing
Mong Pawn Sawbwa Sao San Htun : passed away in the hospital on July 20, 1947; has a hospital named after him; Son Sao Hso Holm
U Ba Win : Bogyoke’s elder brother; Son Dr. Sein Win
U Razak : Nominated by monks; Former Principal of National School; Sons U Tin Myint & U Hla Kyi
ICS U Ohn Maung : Dy. Secy; Was asked to report on behalf of his minister; Sons U Tin Maung Thein, Francis & Dr. Min Min
Yebaw Maung Htwe : U Razak’s bodyguard
There are books (e.g. “Who killed Aung San?”, Eliminate the Elite” by Kin Oung) and documentaries (e.g. “Who really killed Aung San?” by BBC program) about the fateful event.
Eliminate the Elite
Dark days in July 1962
According to the newspapers, 17 died on July 7, 1962.
Ko Aung Khin was stuck by a stray bullet as he was returning from RUBC to his home in Windermere Road. He was listed as the 17th victim.
Anniversary celebration of 7th July in 1963 ended with the closure of Universities with the exception of the Faculties of Medical and Engineering.
The revered Student Union was demolished on July 8, 1962.
Selected by Matthew Hunter to take the entrance exam to study M.B.,B.S. at Calcutta University;
F.R.C.S — Royal College (Edin)
F.A.C.S — American College
F.I.C.S — International College
Police Surgeon
MS, RGH (during the Japanese Occupation)
Rector, IM (1)
Shan Lay (ရှမ်းလေး Soccer)
Zwe A Nyeint ဇွဲအငြိမ့်
Children : Kyaw Than (Georgie), Khin May Than (Kitty), Khin May Aye (Amy)
See book by Dr. Myint Swe
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Dr. U E
Dr. U E
M.B.,B.S.(Rgn.)
L.R.C.P., M.R.C.S (Lond.)
D.T.M.&H. (Edin.)
F.R.C.P (Edin.)
Rector, IM(2)
Children : Bertie, Shirley, Babsy
GBNF
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Dr. Maung Maung Gyi
Dr. Maung Maung Gyi
M.R.C.S. (Eng.)
L.R.C.P. (Lond.)
Rector, Mandalay IM
GBNF
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Dr. Ko Gyi
Ophthalmologist
Medical Superintendent of EENT Hospital
Children : Tin Oo, Glory, Aung Khin, Thein Wai
GBNF
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Col. Min Sein
Dean, Medical College
Spouse : Dr. Daw Yin May
Children : Dr. Thein Htut, Tin Tin Aye
GBNF
Dr. Daw Yin May
First recipient of Fellowship in three Disciplines
MS, Dufferin Hospital
Spouse : Col. Min Sein
Children : Dr. Thein Htut, Tin Tin Aye
GBNF
Dr. Maung Gale
Dean of the Rangoon Medical College from 1959 – 1962
Translated Grey’s Anatomy to Burmese and handed over the manuscripts to Dr Norma Saw.
GBNF
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Dr. Khin Maung Win
Pathologist
DG of ME
Head of Medical Board to examine those chosen for States Scholarship
GBNF
See article by Dr. Mg Mg Nyo
Dr. Mya Tu
Dr. Mya Tu
Founder-Director of Burma Medical Research Institute (BMRI) which later became DMR.
Compiled the Magnum Opus (“Who’s who in Medicine in Burma?”) with his spouse Khin Thet Hta.
Passed away in Australia
See post by Dr. TOKM
Dr. Tin U
Initiated the study of Pediatrics in Burma as a separate discipline.
Medical Superintendent of Rangoon Children’s Hospital.
See post by Dr. TOKM
Dr. P. R. Mohan
Dr. Mohan
Served in the Burma Army Medical Corps from 1939 – 1945 as a medical officer in Burma theater, and discharged as a Major at the completion of World War II.
Passed away in USA in 2005. He was 88 yrs old.
Dr. Mohan & Dr. Daw Hnin Yi
Dr. Mohan and Dr. Daw Hnin Yi (Rosie) are remembered by several former students and colleagues.
See posts by Dr. TOKM, Timmy & Mona
Dr. Nay Win
MS, Psychiatric Hospital
Spouse : Dr. Daw Khin Si
GBNF
Dr. Nay WinDaw Khin Si
Dr. Pe Nyun
Pe Nyun & Pe Thein at 1948 Independence Day Regatta
Past Captain & Gold, RUBC
Pediatric Surgeon
Led team to operate conjoined twins (Ma Nan Soe & Ma Nan San)
Wrote Memoirs for family members & relatives
Passed away in Canada
Brother : Dr. Pe Thein
Dr. Pe Thein
RUBC Gold
Professor
Retired Minister of Health & Education
Passed away
Brother : Dr. Pe Nyun
Spouse : Dr. Kyu Kyu Swe
Dr. Htut Saing (Harry Saing)
Dr. Harry Saing
Second Lead to operate conjoined twins (Ma Nan Soe & Ma Nan San)
All-round athlete : Burma Selected in Cricket, Hockey & Rowing
Past Captain & Gold, RUBC
1958 ARAE Champion for Coxless Pairs
1960 ARAE Champion for Coxed Fours
Worked at RCH and Hong Kong
Passed away in Hong Kong
Siblings : Sheila, Victor, Shirley
See posts & my article in RUBC 90th Anniversary Magazine
Dr. Thein Toe
Headed Nutrition Research at BMRI / DMR
Spouse : Khin Thitsar
Passed away in UK
Dr. Thein Toe and Dr. Htut Saing (Harry)
Dr. Kyaw Win
Army Doctor / Bogyoke
Ambassador to UK and US
Spouse : Kyi Kyi Chit Maung
Sons : Htut Kyaw Win, Aung Kyaw Win
See post by Dr. TOKM
Dr. Daw Khin Than Nu
Pioneer of Neonatal Care in Burma
Regularly attended IM(1) Saya Pu Zaw Pwes
Left to visit her son Win Htut in the USA
When she passed away, Win Htut gave a soon kwyay in her memory at Mettananda Vihara.
Dr. TheinHtut
RUBC Gold
Moved to Australia
Spouse : Wendy Sein
Dr. Nyunt Win (Eddie Tha Win)
Neurologist
Moved to Australia
Spouse : Marie Yu Khin
GBNF
Dr. Daw Kyin Yee
Worked in Myanmar before following her spouse Saya U Kyaw Myint (M/Auto64) to Beijing where he was working for UN.
Relocated to USA and volunteered for meditation retreats.
GBNF
Dr. Aung Khin Sint
Medical doctor with a passion for “Public Health”
Won the National Literary Award for his book on the “Awareness and Prevention of Diseases”
Deputy Director with the Ministry of Health
Led protests in the 8-8-88 movement
Vilified for his criticism of the “unconstitutional” proposals and for running as an MP for the NLD in the 1990 elections
GBNF
SPHS59
Dr. Khin Maung Gyi (Kevin)
The Gardener
(A tribute to all teachers)
Let me introduce to our teacher Who is also a guardian and preacher Guiding and nurturing from a youthful age To raise us up with a healthy image.
As soon as the morning bell tolls He started his routine – heart and soul Never does he skips a single day Sickness and malady are kept at bay.
He may be tired, his voice may whimper His zest and zeal, nothing gets dimmer Never to be seen in fits or rage Happy and contented on not so high a wage.
His loving kindness is like a mountain Goodwill from him flows like a fountain He looks after us as one of his own His empathy towards us is very well known.
Hearing the success of his ‘daughters and sons’ He beams as though ‘a war was won’ He is now overjoyed and highly thrilled His life seems to be thus fulfilled.
SPHS60
Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint
TOKM 1TOKM 2
Top Paulian in his class, and stood 6th in the Matric exam.
Founded the group “Alumni of the Institute of Medicine in Myanmar (Overseas)”
Wrote about his mentors (Aba U Hla Myint, Dr. Tin U) and other trail blazers.
His former students published a book for his 70th birthday.
Dr. Min Lwin
Orthopedic Surgeon
Dr. Than Toe
Sports Medicine
Rehabilitation
Admin, RUBC
GBNF
Dr. Saw Naing (Henry)
Professor
GBNF
SPHS61
Dr. Kyaw Win (Robin Ban)
Stood 2nd in Burma
Moved to Australia
SPHS63
Dr. Khin Maung U
SPHS
Stood 1st in Burma. First student to have almost perfect score in Maths, Chemistry and Physics with 299 marks out of the possible 300. Grapevine says that Chief Examiner of Physics reluctantly took back a mark.
Retired from FDA
Sharing KMU Medical Reports
Scholarship Winners
Dr. Myo San (Freddie)
Stood 3rd in Burma
Early retirement as Surgeon
GBNF
Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor)
Stood 4th in Burma
Retired as Professor of Physiology
Taught at IM & Malaysia
Published “50 Kauk Kyaung Kabyars”
Dr. Thein Wai
Stood 5th in Burma
Moved to USA after graduation
Dr. Aung Kyaw Zaw (Johnny Mg Mg)
Stood 9th in Burma
Army Doctor / Cardiologist
Dr. Khin Maung Zaw (Frank Gale)
Stood 17th in Burma
Retired Medical Doctor / Examiner / Registrar (in UK)
SPHS64
Maurice & Aung Win
Dr. Aung Win Chiong
Had second highest “raw” score behind Dr. Cherry Hlaing & Dr. Lyn Aung Thet.
Had perfect ILA score & was admitted to IM(2) as Roll Number One.
Now retired
Dr. Min Lwin (Maurice)
Admitted to IM(2) as Roll Number Two
Surgeon (with Practice in UK and Myanmar)
SPHS65
Paulian Doctors
Dr. Yi Thway (Edwin)
Fifth highest marks
Admitted to IM(1) as Roll Number (1)
Passed away in UK
Spouse : Kyi Kyi Hla (BDS)
Dr. Paing Soe (Freddie)
Had same marks as Dr. Yi Thway.
Admitted to IM(1) as Roll Number (2)
Medical Research
Thanks to TOKM (Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint) and VNW (Dr. Victor Nyunt Wai) for their input and feedback.
Dr. Mya Tu
Founded Burma Medical Research Institute (BMRI). BMRI later became Directorate of Medical Research (DMR). DMR had branches in Upper and Lower Burma.
Served as Director General.
Was a physiologist.
He and his spouse compiled a directory of medical professionals in Burma.
Passed away at the age of 91 in Australia.
Dr. Thein Htut & Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint gave eulogies at Saya’s service.
Dr. Aung Than Ba Tu
Fondly known as ATBT
Succeeded Dr. Mya Tu.
Requested UCC to give lectures on computing at BMRI. I was a Guest Lecturer.
In his 90s, he is still active, giving talks and participating in the editorial team of a certain journal.
Dr. Khin Maung Tin
MS of the Rangoon University Sanatorium.
Succeeded Dr. ATBT.
Specialized in liver diseases
Passed away the earliest (heard it was a heart attack)
Survived by Dr Daw Htay Kyi, a TB specialist.
Dr. May May Yi
Met Sayama at the Inlay Luyechun camp in the summer of 1965.
Physiologist
Professor of Physiology at the Institute of Medicine.
Became DG at BMRI.
GBNF
Dr. Than Shwe
Microbiologist
After retirement, he moved to USA.
He stays active by guiding high school students for their SAT tests.
Dr. Paing Soe
Matriculated from St. Paul’s High School in 1965.
Selected Luyechun.
DG of DMR.
Retired as Deputy Minister of Health.
Researchers
Dr. Thein Toe (GBNF)
Dr. Cho Nwe Oo
Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt (GBNF)
Dr. Htay Htay (GBNF)
Dr. Khin Maung U
Dr. Kyaw Min (Retired as Acting DG)
Group photo : Young researchers (BMRI- DMR)
Medical Researchers
L to R: U Aung Myint, Dr Htay Htay, Saya (Prof Mya Tu), Dr Myo Thein, U Ba Aye (statistician), Dr Pe Thaung Myint (sports medicine), Dr Htin Kyaw (physiologist).
St. John Baptist De La Salle founded the Order in the Catholic Church.
A Brother takes three vows:
Chasity
Loyalty
Poverty
The mission of the Brothers is to promote Education.
They build De La Salle Schools in several Countries.
De La Salle Schools in Burma
First Two Schools
In 1860, De La Salle Brothers set up St. Patrick’s High School in Moulmein (Mawlamyaing).
A few months later, the Brothers set up St. Paul’s High School in Rangoon (Yangon).
Celebrations
Centennial Celebrations were held in 1960.
Sesquicentennial Celebrations were held in 2010.
Schools & Badges
De La Salle Schools
St. Patrick’s High School, Moulmein
St. Paul’s High School, Rangoon
St. Paul’s HS BadgeSt. Paul’s HS Blazer Coat
St. Peter’s High School, Mandalay
St. Albert’s High School, Maymyo
St. Joseph’s High School, Loikaw
St. Columban’s High School, Bhamo
De La Salle School, Twante
B.O.B
Brothers’ Old Boys
Former Students of De La Salle Schools
A senior did not like being called B.O.B
Paulians
Students from St. Paul’s HS are known as Paulians.
Former students are known as Old Paulians. They include
U Ba Khin — Auditor General, Vipassana Teacher
U Tin Tut — First ICS by Invitation
U Tin Tut
U Chan Htoon — Justice
Dr. Ba Han — Law Professor, Lexicographer
Dr. Ba Han
Dr. Ba Maw — RU English Lecturer, Politician, Adipati
U Than Aung — SPHS Burmese Teacher, AFPFL Minister of Education
SPHS Honor Roll
Honor Roll
During our school days, St. Paul’s HS displayed an Honor Roll with Outstanding Matriculates starting from the 1950s.
U Ba Khin stood First in Matric in the Pre-war days.
Post-war saw SPHS heading the top list for most academic years. The following Paulians stood First in Burma in the Matric exam.
George Chapman (1951)
Dr. Nyunt Tin (1952) — heading Top Two
Koon Yin Chu (1954)
Dr. Soe Win (1958) — heading Top Two
Dr. Frankie Ohn (1959) — heading Top Four
Dr. Khin Maung U (1963) — heading Top Five
After nationalization, the Honor Roll disappeared.
It was recovered by Ko Soe Nyunt (Taw Win Hnin Si, SPHS66).
It is now displayed in St. Paul’s Museum.
Old Paulian’s Association
During our school days, Old Paulian’s Association (OPA) was inside the school compound.
SPHS63OPA Invitation
Dinner in 1963
On 30th June 1963, ten of us were invited to the Annual OPA Dinner.
Khin Maung U (1st)
Min Oo (2nd)
Myo San (Freddie Ba San, 3rd, GBNF)
Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt, 4th)
Thein Wai (5th)
Hla Min (7th)
Aung Kyaw Zaw (Johnny Maung Maung, 9th)
Maung Maung Kyi (11th, GBNF)
Aung Thuyein (Brownie Way, 13th, GBNF)
Khin Maung Zaw (Frank Gale, 17th)
After Nationalization
On 1st April 1965, private schools were nationalized. Non-native Brothers moved left Burma. e.g Bro Charles to UK, Bro Felix to Germany, Bro Austin to Malaysia.
SPHS became No. 6 Botathaung State High School.
OPA moved out of the school compound. Sadly, OPA allowed non-Paulians to join for billiards and drinks.
Revival
It took some time before Old Paulians — mostly from late 50s and early 60s — took over OPA and organized Reunions & Acariya Pu Zaw Pwes.
OPA also awarded prizes to the children of Old Paulians who had done well academically (mostly in high school).
OPA held Acariya Pu Zaw Pwes yearly.
Pu Zaw Pwe Invitation
SPHS Sayas & Sayamas
SPHS Brothers & Sayas
Some joined SPHS from KG. They would know more sayas & sayamas than me.
SPHS Sayas & Sayamas
After standing second in 3rd standard at PPBRS (Private Primary Boundary Road School), I transferred to Std. IV (D) at SPHS. As Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint noted, most of the transfer students were placed in Section (D).
Sections (A) & (B) were reserved for bright students and some Catholics.
I had to be in the Top Two for four consecutive years, before I was assigned to Section (A) in Std. VIII.
My Class Teachers include :
Ms. A Benjamin (IVD)
Mrs. V Boudville (VD)
U Pe Tin (VID)
U Nge (VIID)
Brother Anthony (VIIIA)
Brother Xavier (IXA)
Brother Austin (XA)
Ms. Amelia Kyi
(Miss Hong Kong)
She taught us English in VI and VII Standards. She would fine 25 pyas for failing the weekly test. However, she would reward 50 pyas for topping the test. My daily pocket money was 25 pyas.
Brother Xavier
He taught us English in VIII and IX. He would mark a dictation test starting out with 100 and then subtracting 10 for every spelling error. One of my classmates ended with -130.
He would also punish (often with a cane) for making grammatical mistakes.
For some reason, Brother Xavier stopped being strict after he transferred from St. Paul’s to St. Albert’s.
After Nationalization, he moved back to UK. He supposedly left the Order.
Brother Austin
He taught us English in X. He also taught “Morals and Manners” for the period when the Catholic students studied Catechism. He was School Librarian and also in charge of the 8mm projector. Every week, he would take us to the School Library (which had books donated by Ford Foundation & Asia Foundation), ask us to check out a book and write a review over the weekend.
For “Morals and Manners” class, he would ask us to recite poems from the book. The first three who recited perfectly could take “time off for the rest of the period”. I was lucky to win a few special prizes : a ticket to see “1960 Rome Olympics” documentary at Thamada (President) cinema, and a book covering North America (complete with history and atlas).
He abhorred plagiarism. He said, “It’s okay if you do not have time to finish your homework. But don’t copy other’s works. It’s a waste of time for you and me.”
Contrary to his expectations, I did not end up in the Top Three. I stood 7th.
After Nationalization, Brother Austin moved to a De La Salle School in Malaysia, and continued teaching until his demise.
Saya Sein
He was our Burmese teacher in High School. He taught us “Mingala Pa Pun Lu Na Ta Tu Ti Sein Ta Ti Ti Mingala” as an example of giving the meaning of Pali words. He is the father of Dr. Soe Win (1st in Burma in 1958, Chemistry Saya, Administrator at ICST, Retired Rector of YUFL)
Saya Kyaw Sein (brother in law of Saya Sein) taught VII(A) and was our relieving teacher.
Subject Teachers
Brother Clementian — Maths
Brother Joseph — Lab
Saya Beatson — Physics
Saya D’Cruz — Chemistry
Saya Nyunt Maung — Burmese & Art Subjects
Saya Htay Myint — History & Geography
Saya Htwe — Art Subjects
Relieving Teachers
Saya Lewis — English
Saya Timms — English
Saya Kyaw Khin — Maths
Saya Johnny Myo — Maths
Saya M. Hla Min — Physics
Saya Hla Myint — Physics
Saya Kyaw Oo — Class Teacher from different section
Saya Aye — Class Teacher from different section
Saya San Thein — Class Teacher from different section
SPHS VI DSPHS VIII AVIII B
Updates
Some schools have an associated Juniorate or Seminary.
Three classmates — Bernard Taylor, Edwin David & Anthony Lourdes — became Priests.
Most of our sayas are GBNF. The exception is Uzin Beatson (former Physics teacher & Scout master).
Uzin Beatson & former students
U Aye (M62) matriculated from St. Patrick’s HS. He posted some photos and mentioned some Outstanding students.
Some students joined St. Paul’s HS but matriculated from No. 6 Botathaung SHS.
St. Paul’s Museum was opened on the recent St. Paul’s Day (29th June). U Nay Oke (St. Paul’s) is a Patron of OPA.
Nay Oke
St. Peter’s HS students were 1st, 2nd and Joint 3rd in the Matric of 1956.
Albertians — Zaw Min & Tommy Shwe — were admitted as Top Students to RIT in November 1964.
David Myint Thein (M69) and Khin Maung Myint (M70) matriculated from St. Columban’s HS.
I am trying to emulate their philanthropy by sharing my knowledge & expertise.
Sharing Knowledge & Expertise
Jack of All Trades; Master of Some
Proponent of Youth Leadership
Sharing Knowledge & Expertise gained as
Software Engineer / Craftsman
Consultant
Distinguished Toastmaster
Author & Blogger
Translator & Interpreter
Editor of newsletters & books
Folklorist & Historian
Recording history of our beloved land
Love history
HMEE TeamHMEE Book
Was Member of “History of Myanmar Engineering Education Project”. U Ohn Khine (M70) & I compiled CD supplement for HMEE book.
Was Docent at the “Computer History Museum” in Mountain View, California, USA.
CHM
Published 2500+ posts
Broadcast 220 Short Talks from August 2020 to February 2021. Can be viewed using @hmin3664 on YouTube
YouTube Channel for my videos
Hope that my posts &videos will be helpful to scholars and historians in Myanmar and beyond.
Wrote articles, reviews, poems & translations for
National Foreign Language Center at University of Maryland, College Park : Burmese Language Lessons (Listening and Reading)
Encyclopedia of Asian American Folklore and Folklife ABC-CIO Press : Can access my articles from Google Books.
Encyclopedia
MoeMaKa : Online Publication
RIT Alumni Newsletter : from April 1999 – present
RIT Alumni Newsletter for SPZP-2000
Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung : Poems for SPZP-2002 & 2007; Article in SPZP-2010
SDY Sar Saung for SPZP-2002
Swel Daw Yeik Magazine : Article for Shwe Yadu 2014
SDY Magazine for Shwe YaDu 2014
History of Myanmar Engineering Education : U Ohn Khine (M70) & I compiled CD Supplement for HMEE Book
CD for HMEE Book
BAPS Newsletter : Contributing Editor
BAPS Newsletter
Dhammananda Newsletter : Contributing Editor for Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay, California & Theravada Buddhist Society of America (TBSA)
Dhammananda Newsletter
Paying Homage to Sayadaw U Silanandabhimvama : Contributing Editor & Member of Publications Committee
Homage to U Silananda
Rangoon University Boat Club : Contributing Editor for 90th Anniversary Issue
RUBC Magazine
Guardian Newspaper : Poems (e.g. Men on the Moon); Articles (e.g. Computers and Applications) in English
Men on the Moon
Working People’s Daily (WPD) : Poems (e.g. Phaung daw-u Festival); Translation (e.g. Still So Young) in English
Phaungdaw-u Festval
Forward Magazine : Poems (e.g. To the Fallen Warrior) in English
To the Fallen Warrior
Veda Magazine (ဝေဒ) : Articles for Burma Astro Research Bureau
Pan Magazine (ပန်) : Articles in Burmese
High School Mathematics Project : Member of Editorial Team
Team of System Specialists : Computer Education & Application
Set Hmu Thadin Zin (စက်မှုသတင်းစဉ်) : Short notes
Hlyat Sit Sar Saung (လျှပ်စစ်စာစောင်) : Article for RIT EE
I have volunteered for
Computer History Museum
History of Myanmar Engineering Education Project
Toastmasters International
SF Bay Area ACM Chapter
2010 Census Count Committee
RIT Alumni International
NorCal RIT Alumni Association
Tathagata Meditation Center
Theravada Buddhist Society of America
Souvenirs
Dream Big or Small
“If one person can dream, others will fulfill”
The saying is attributed to Jules Verne who dreamed & wrote about space ships, submarines, and travel around the globe.
My Earlier Dream
SPZP-2000
Was to connect or re-connect Sayas, Colleagues & Friends physically and electronically.
We successfully organized the First RIT Alumni Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe in San Francisco, California in October 2000.
Six more World-wide Reunion and SPZP took place. Singapore in 2002, 2007 & 2010. Yangon in 2004, 2012 & 2016. Due to pandemic, SPZP-2020 was canceled.
Started RIT Alumni International Newsletter in April 1999.
Served as Content Provider & Editor for ex-RIT websites : first one by KMZ (UKhin Maung Zaw, now retired from Microsoft) and second one by Wunna Ko Ko (then at SAS).
Both ex-RIT websites are now inactive.
My Later Dream
Was to record Oral & Written History of our Alma Mater and our Beloved Land.
Set up hlamin.com (to archive old posts, add new posts and revise selected posts).
Requested SPZP-2000 Organizers, interested sayas & alumni to record gatherings.
Requested Subject Matter Experts & interested readers to review and enhance selected posts.
U Kyaw Phone Myint (Victor Kyaw Phyo) passed away in Myanmar.
KPM 2 Kyaw Phone Myint 1
Singapore
Maurice Chee’s mother-in-law passed away in Singapore.
Soon Kyway
Soon kyway at Dhammananda Vihara, Half Moon Bay, California, USA in memory of U Wah Kyu (father of Maurice Chee) who passed away four years ago.
Attendees include Saya U San Tun (M59), Walter Tan (M70), Charlie Tseng (EC70), U Aung Thein (John, M72), U Aye Tun (Anthony, M76) and U Khin Zaw (UCC)
NorCal RITAA
Saya U Myat Htoo invited selected sayas and alumni (who were active with RIT-related activities in California) to attend the NorCal RITAA Annual Dinner on November 16, 2019.
Gordon Kaung (Past President) has RSVPed and also pledged donation.
U Ba Than
Saya U Ba Than will celebrate his 89th birthday on or around October 2, 2019.
Publications
Original writings are being solicited for the magazine to be published in February 2020 for the Centennial of the founding of Rangoon University. The deadline is mid-October 2019.
Selected old poems will be compiled into a Kabyar Book to commemorate the RU Centennial
Golden Jubilees
Class of 69 (for the GJ of Graduation in 1969)
Class of 75 (for the GJ of Admission to RIT in 1969)
Myingyan Sunlun Gu Kyaung Sayadaw U Kavi (ဆရာတော်ဦးကဝိ)
U Kavi
Biography and dhamma talks
Myingyan SunLun
First KabaAye Sunlun Gu Kyaung Sayadaw U Vinaya (ဆရာတော်ဦးဝိနယ)
U Vinaya
Early devotees of Sayadaw include U Khin Maung Latt, Daw Khin Myo Chit, U Thein Nyunt and U Win Pe
Wrote a book “The Yogi & Vipassana (Buddhist Meditation : The Sunlun Way)”
Passed away in his late 90s
Book by U Vinaya
“The Yogi and Vipassana” BUDDHIST MEDITATION : THE SUNLUN WAY Author : Sunlun Shin Vinaya Publisher : Sunlun Buddhist Meditation Center 7 1/2 Mile, Prome Road, KabaAye P.O., Rangoon
CONTENTS The Yogi and Vipassana (Page 1 – 18) The Sunlun Way of Mindfulness (Page 19 – 33) Explanatory Notes for Beginners and Those Proceeding Along the Sunlun Way of Vipassana (Page 34 – 50)
KabaAye Sunlun Gu Kyaung Sayadaw U Wara
(ဆရာတော်ဦးဝရ)
U Wara
U Win Paing won Golf trophies (some with his younger brother U Kyaw Paing).
Meditated at KabaAye Sunlun.
He gave away his Golf Set. Entered monkhood after the Final exam for Chemical Engineering in 1970.
Served as Taik Oke Sayadaw of Kaba Aye Sunlun Gu Kyaung for nearly four decades.
Succeeded Sayadaw U Vinaya as Chief Resident Monk.
Passed away on August 26, 2021
Siblings : Dr. Myo Paing (Medical Research & Malaria), U Soe Paing (RIT EE, UCC co-founder, UN), U Kyaw Paing (Lawyer, Entrepreneur, Champion Golfer)
U WaraObituaryFour Paing Brothers
Vipassana Retreats
KabaAye Sunlun Gu Kyaung
Kyauk Pa Daung
Hong Kong
Dr. Khin Maung Win
Son of U Khin Maung Latt & Daw Khin Myo Chit
Retired Professor of Mathematics
Published “Notes on Vipassana meditation”
UCC
Yahan Khan
In the 1970s, the staff and students of Universities’ Computer Center hosted “Donlaba Yahan Khan” for Thingyan at selected monasteries.
The initial venue was KabaAye Sunlun Gu Kyaung.
UCC Yahan Khan 1UCC Yahan Khan 2
Updates
Sayadaws — U Kavi, U Vinaya & U Wara — have passed away.
Several devotees — U Khin Maung Latt, Daw Khin Myo Chit, Dr. Khin Maung Win, U Thein Nyunt, Tekkatho Shwe Yee Win, U Soe Myint, U Win Pe — are GBNF.
We use GBNF for those who are Gone But Not Forgotten.
Some use RIP (Rest in Peace), BFHA (Bound For Heavenly Abode) and similar terms.
GBNF Posts
GBNF by Calendar Year
GBNF of RIT Sayas
GBNF of RIT Alumni
GBNF of Organizers
GBNF of Sponsors & Donors
GBNF for SPHS
GBNF for UCC
GBNF (General — Sayadaws, Doctors, Family members, Friends)
Some Groups (e.g 69ers, 1st BE Intake of 64) maintain GBNF lists.
Class of 58
Saya U Htin Paw (EE), Saya U Ba Nyunt (EE), Saya Allen Htay (C), Saya Dr. Win Thein (C) & U Khin Maung Win (Sid, C) are some GBNF from the Class
Class of Civil 1958
Saya Allen Htay (C)
Saya Allen Htay
Founding member & President of RIT Alumni International which hosted SPZP-2000.
Passed away in California, USA.
See Posts
Dr. Win Thein (C)
Dr. Win Thein
Retired as Professor & Head of Civil Engineering.
His sister donated Saya’s Garawa money to various charities.
See Posts
Class of 59
U Bo Gyi (C), Saya U Tin Hlaing (M) are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
U Bo Gyi
Class of 60
U Kin Maung Yin (A), Saya Dr. Maung Maung Win (ChE), U Than Tin (M) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
Dr. Maung Maung WinKin Maung Yin
Class of 61
Dr. San Tint (EE), Daw Tin Tin Ohn (T), Dr. Julie Han (T) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
Dr. San Tint
Class of 62
Saya S. Arya (M) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
S Arya
Class of 63
U Myint Lwin (Henry, C), Saya U Soe Lwin (M), U Shwe Kyaw (M), U Soe Min (EE), U Nyi Nyi (EE), U Chin Way (EE) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
EE Sayas
Class of 64
U Than Tun (A), Saya U Win Maung (C) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
Class of 65
Saya U Kyaw Sein (M), Saya U Myo Win (M) … are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
U Kyaw Sein
Class of 66
U Ne Win Myint (ChE) …
U Saw Lwin has a list of GBNF for C66
See Posts
Ne Win Myint (Center)
Class of 67
Saya Dr. Koung Nyunt (A), U Win Thein (M), U Kyaw Oo (M), U Aung Myint (M), Saya Dr. Chan Nyein (M), Saya U Tin Maung Oo (M), Daw Nancy (EC), U Myint Kyaw (EC) are some GBNF from the Class
See Posts
U Win Thein (M)
Win Thein
Founded Set Hmu Thadin Zin.
Organizer for Ah Nu Pyinnya Ah Thinn and several RIT events.
Class of 68
Saya Sai Yee Leik (A), Saya U Myint Soe (C), Saya U Ohn Maung (ChE), U Tun Aung (Jeffrey, EC), U Thein Zaw (Joe, EC), U Soe Myint Lwin (EP), U Saw Win (EE), Daw Mya Mya Than (EP) are some GBNF from the Class
See posts
U Tun Aung (Jefferey, EC)
U Tun Aung (GBNF)
Founding member and past President of BASES.
Passed away on October 5, 2021.
See Posts
U Soe Myint Lwin (EP)
Memorial Service for U Soe Myint LwinSoon Kwyay Invitation for U Soe Myint Lwin
Played Soccer for Burma, RU & RIT.
Was EC of the Burma Women’s Soccer Federation.
Passed away in 2017.
See Posts
69ers
U Aung Min
In November 1964, three Intakes were admitted to RIT.
Most from the 2nd BE Intake graduated in 1969.
They and former classmates — some who left earlier & some who Sabbatical — are called 69ers (or RIT Class of 69++).
69er GBNF
U Aung Min (M69) & team maintain the GBNF list for 69ers.
Over 40% of the 69ers are GBNF.
About 20 members succumbed to Covid.
See posts
U Han Sein (C)
Han Sein
Represented RIT in Swimming, Water Polo, Diving & Basketball.
Prisoner of Conscience for 17 years.
U Aye Lwin (M)
Aye Lwin
Secretary of RIT Annual Magazine Committee & RIT Mechanical Engineering Association.
Attended 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles.
Class of 70
(Intake of 64)
U Ohn Khine
U Ohn Khine (M70) and team maintain the GBNF list the Group.
About 140 members are GBNF.
Four top students from the Intake — Tommy Shwe, Cho Aye, Peter Pe & Steeve Kay — are GBNF
See posts
Class of 71
Did not receive official GBNF list
U Myint Thin (M71), Daw Than Than Yi (T71) are some GBNF from the Class
See posts
Class of 72
M72
Mg Mar Ga occasionally posted the GBNF list.
Kham Shan
Khin Maung Myint (John Tint)
Khin Maung Oo
Khin Maung Tin
Khin Maung Toe
Kyaw Kyaw Aung
Kyaw Kyaw Maw
Kyaw Moe
Kyaw Myint Than
Kyaw San Tun
John Tint
Soe Myint (Phone Gyi)
Soe Myint (Shwe Thwar)
Soe Myint Aung
Soe Than
Tha Tun
See Posts
ChE72
Myo Myint Pe
Aye Aye Kyaw
See posts
EE72
Nyunt Nyunt Yee
Khin Soe
See Posts
Class of 73 – 76
U Khin Maung Aye (M) … from the Class of 73
Sai Aung Thurein (EC), Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo (EP), U Sann Aung (M)… from the Class of 74
U Win Khaing (M), U Than Po (M), U Myat Swe (Benedict) … from the Class of 75
U Aung Myint Thein (C), U Wynn Myint Aung (EC) … from the Class of 76
Sayagyis
Several passed away in their 90s
Some former Head of Departments — U Tha Tun (A), U Min Win (C), Dr. Win Thein (C), Khin Aung Kyi (ChE, Rector), Dr. Maung Maung Win (ChE), U Sein Hlaing (EE), U Sein Win (EP), Dr. San Tint (EC), U Ba Than (M), Dr. Chan Nyein (M), U Thit (Met), Dr. Saw Pru (M), U Soe Khaw (Min), U Soon Sein (Min), U Maung Maung Than (T) — are GBNF
See posts for each Department
Mr. H Num Kok (C)
H Num Kok 1H Num Kok 2
Saya of our Sayas.
Taught Drawing to Dr. Aung Gyi, U Min Wun & U Khin Aung Kyi.
Attended SPZP-2000 and selected PZPs & Reunions
Passed away in his late 90s in Portland, Oregon, USA
See posts
U Ba Toke
U Ba Toke 1U Ba Toke 2
Saya of our Sayas.
Taught Maths to U Ba Than, Dr. Aung Gyi, U Min Wun & U Khin Aung Kyi
Rector of MASU
Voluntarily asked for Transfer to RIT Maths Dept
Associate Dean, Assumption University
Passed away on December 2, 2020 — the day after RU Centennial, but a few days short of his Centennial Birthday on December 26.
See posts
U Ba Than
Saya U Ba Than
Retired Professor of Mechanical Engineering
Early supporter of HMEE project
Annual Birthday Soon Kyway at Yaw Sayadaw’ Kyaung on October 2. Before the pandemic, invited colleagues & former students to the Soon Kyway.
69ers (mostly Mech) paid homage to him annually around his birthday.
Donated Garawa money to charities & associations
Passed away shortly after his 94th birthday
See Posts
U Min Wun
Saya U Min Wun
Retired Professor of Civil Engineering
Member of Myanmar Pyet Ka Dein Ah Kyan Pay Ah Phwe.
Advisor for the Regional College Project & Pagan Restoration Project.
Attended Annual Lunch Gathering of sayas and senior alumni (mostly from Southern California).
Passed away a few days after the “farewell” Lunch Gathering
See Posts
HMEE
HMEE
Team published HMEE book in 2012
Saya U Aung Hla Tun, Ko Aung Moung (M73) and Ko Thant Zin (M82) are now GBNF
See posts
U Aung Hla Tun (Met)
Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF)
Retired Associate Professor of Metallurgical Engineering
Passed away in February 2022.
Chief Editor, RIT Annual Magazine
Led the History of Myanmar Engineering Education Project.
Won the National Literary Award.
See Posts
Sponsors
There were five Golden Sponsors for SPZP-2000
David Ko (Tin Myint, M67) and Steeve Kay (Thaung Sein, EC70) are now GBNF
David Ko (M67)
David
Golden Sponsor for SPZP-2000
$3000 for SPZP-2012
Sponsor & Donor for NorCal RITAA
Steeve Kay (EC70)
Steeve Kay
Had successful careers as IC Designer, Founder & CEO of QTC, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist
Multiple Golden Sponsor for SPZP
Chair, Kay Family Foundation
Donated more than $200000 to RIT related activities.
See Posts
Family Members
Ma Ma Pat (GBNF)
Ma Ma Pat
Spouse of Saya U Myo Myint Sein
Passed away unexpectedly on October 2, 2022.
The day before, Saya Myo celebrated his 91st birthday.
See Posts
U Tin U’s Family
Daw Khin Kyi Nyunt, Dr. Peter Khin Tun
Three family members passed away within a few months.
Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt (spouse) — November, 2019
Dr. Peter Khin Tun (elder son) — April 13, 2020
U Tin Tun (son-in-law) — May 2020
See Posts
Sports
U Soe Myint Lwin (EP68), U Kyaw Sint (T69er), John Tint (M72), U Thein Lwin (M72) are some Soccer Selected who are GBNF
U Han Sein (C69) and U Aung Gyi Shwe (EE69er) are some Multiple Sports Athletes who are GBNF
U Aung Gyi Shwe (EE69er)
Aung Gyi Shwe
Secretary of RIT Track and Field Association.
Played soccer and enjoyed weightlifting.
U Khin Maung Myint (John Tint, M72)
John Tint
Soccer selected for Burma, RU & RIT passed away in 2020
Last 7th Std Government exam : We took it in March
Elections
Caretaker Government finally held Elections.
Pyidaung Su Party (former “Clean AFPFL“) led by U Nu won by a land slide. The victory would be short lived.
U Nu
1961
Education
Last HSF & Matric (Combined) exam
First batch of Female Engg Graduates : Tin Tin Ohn (Amy), Julie Han, Yin Yin Kyi, Mi Mi Lay (all Textile) & Pauline Reynolds (ChE)
Faculty of Engineering moved to Gyogone Campus. Also called Burma Institute of Technology (BIT)
SEAP Games
Burma hosted the Second SEAP (South East Asia Peninsular) Games in December.
Burma dominated most events and placed first.
About 20 RU students represented Burma.
2nd SEAP Games
1962
Education
First “Matric Only” exam
First “HSF Only” exam : We (from Rangoon Division) had to take the exam in March & again in August
Coup d’etat
On March 2, a 17-member Revolutionary Council staged a Coup d’etat. President Mahn Win Maung, Prime Minister U Nu & Cabinet Ministers, Sao Shwe Thaik & Sawbwas, and several high-level Government employees were detained.
SamaDuwa Sinwa Naung (President-elect) did not become President.
Sama Duwa
Per Kyemon U Thaung, seven Revolutionary Council members were not aware of the major decisions.
Brigadier General T. Clift (Air Force) resigned. He was succeeded by Col Thaung Dan (who became Brigadier General). Several senior Air Force personnel were appointed Ambassadors or Military Attache to pave way for younger officers.
Commodore Than Pe (Navy) passed away. He was Minister for Health & Education. Commander Thaung Tin (who became Commodore) succeeded CTP as Chief of Navy. Col Hla Han became Minister for Health &Education.
Col Chit Myaing was the last original Revolutionary Council member to pass away. He served as Ambassador to Yugoslavia and UK before moving to USA.
Tin Maung Thant (son of U Thant) passed away during his visit to Burma. The funeral cortège was larger that of Commodore Than Pe.
The usage of “Tar Wun Khan” was later changed back to “Minister”.
Dark Days in July
7th July : 17 official victims
8th July : Demolition of RUSU Building
1963
Education
Matric exam : We took it in May
SPHS has five students in Top Five, seven in Top Ten, and ten in Top Twenty
SPHS63
Last batch for General Honors program
1964
Education
New Education System
Most Faculties became autonomous Institutes with Rectors.
RASU & MASU offered Major
Admission to RIT
In Nov 1964, three batches of students were admitted to RIT
Matriculated were admitted to 1st BE based on Intelligence Level Aggregate (ILA)
Those who passed I.Sc(A) were admitted 2nd BE based on marks.
Those who passed I.Sc(B) were admitted to 3rd BE based on marks.
Luyechun
Shwe Wa Gyaing Camp in Ngapali
Students from 7th to 10th Std were selected as Luyechun
1965
Education
On April 1, private schools were nationalized.
SPHS became No. 6 Botathaung State High School. Non-native De La Salle brothers left Burma. e.g Bro Austin to Malaysia, Bro Felix to Germany, Bro Charles to UK
Luyechun
Khaung Daing Camp in Inlay
Program extended to Universities & Institutes
RIT : Sein Shwe, Hla Min, Zaw Min, Khin Than Myint Tin
IM(1) : Kyaw Sein Koe, Anita Aye Pe, Khin Maung U, Cherry Hlaing
Decline of Economy
After detaining prominent members of Pyidaung Su (formerly Clean AFPFL) and new AFPFL (formerly Stable AFPFL), the Revolutionary Council & government sought help from left-wing Gurus (e.g. U Chit Hlaing who threw in Buddhist terms into “Burmese Way to Socialism” & U Ba Nyein who proposed indiscriminate Nationalization.
Burma Socialist Program Party (BSPP) was formed with core cadres. It later opened up membership for Ah Yan Party Win (Associate member). Party membership became a requirement for important positions.
Free Economy was replaced by rations (e.g. half a can of Condensed Milk per family) using the “Si Sar Oke”. It created a Black Market and the rising cost of living.
The Demonetization crippled the Industry and even had ripple effect on University students. Hostel students, whose money had been demonetized, had to be given free rides to return home.
Per Dr. Nyan Taw (SPHS63) : Both my father U Hla Taw (retired Chief of UMP/ DIG) and my mother Daw Marie Hla Taw together with Col Chit Yaing, Chief Justice U Myint Thein, DIG U Tin MaungMaung and DIG U Khin Maung Maung were taken away by MI (Military Intelligence) in 1964. My parents were released in 1967.
Changes in Education
Bachelor Degrees
Education
Law
NRC rule
Enforced for Professional Courses
Bernard Khaw (First in Burma in the Matric of 1965) had to study Chemistry. He moved to USA and studied Chemical Engineering.
Chu Pu Thein (who scored highest marks in Physics in the first ever HSF Only exam in 1962) moved to Italy
Many had to study in RASU. Chemistry students had very high marks and/or ILA.
A medical student was expelled after he was “found out to be not 3 NRC.”
A few students who had been admitted to RASU because of 3 NRC were allowed to study medicine. They lost a year, but not their dreams.
Names
There was discrimination against students having foreign names.
Two families. They were cousins. Those who retained non-Burmese names were admitted to RASU. Those with Burmese names were allowed to study professional degrees.
Security Concerns
Shortage of rice (never heard before in the “Rice Bowl of Asia”) was transformed into “Tayoke Bamar Ah Yay Ah Khin”. Grapevine says that a lorry strategically placed “Beggars” around Rangoon.
1969
Men on the Moon
Poem
Apollo 11 landed on the moon on July 20, 1969.
My poem “Men on the Moon” was forwarded by Mr. Hall (USIS) to NASA.
The poem was also published in the Guardian daily newspaper.
69ers
Most of us graduated with BE. A few with BArch.
EE69ers
SEAP Games
Burma hosted the Fifth SEAP Games in December 1969. There were riots in the Thamaing College Campus which held some events (e.g. Boxing).
Placard bearers for 5th SEAP Games
News & Censorship
Nation newspaper was the first to be closed (by orders of the higher authorities). U Law Yone was detained. He later moved to Thailand and published the “Nation”. He eventually moved to the USA.
Finally, there were only four Burmese and two English newspapers. They published the news vetted and/or translated by News Agency Burma.
The two new newspapers were Loketha Pyithu Nay Zin and Working Peoples’ Daily (WPD).
The then Number One chose Shwe Oo Daung and U Khin Maung Latt as Chief Editors of “Loketha Pyithu Nay Zin” and Working People’s Daily (WPD) and promised them full authority. Some time later, U Khin Maung Latt was asked, “Do you want to be an Ambassador?” Daw Khin Myo Chit stepped in and said, “Ko Latt will go back teaching at his school”.
Selection of Sayas and State Scholars
In the days of our teachers, the Dean & Professors had the say to select and appoint assistant lecturers, and to select bright students to apply for State Scholarship to study at the prestigious universities in the USA and UK.
Later, the Public Service Commission (PSC) was established to vet candidates for most positions.
Some engineers and architects had to join government departments as “Work Charge” while waiting to get permanent positions approved by PSC.
HlaMin 