Nyaung Yan 2Nyaung Yan 1Mahasi, Nyaung Yan, Mingun
Ma Soe Yein Sayadaw
Succeeded Nyaung Yan Sayadaw as Sangha Maha Nayaka, Sixth Buddhist Council
Nyaung Yan & Ma Soe Yein
Dhammanda Vihara
Dhammanda Vihara, Half Moon Bay, California
U Sobhana
U Silananda : Inaugural Rector, ITBMU
U Jotalankara
U Osadha
Dr. Mehm Tin Mon
Ph.D in Chemistry from UIUC
Retired Professor
Bilingual Author
Taught Abhidhamma
Mehm Tin Mon Abhidhamma Metta & Thitsar
Relatives
Dr. Min Sandar MonRel 1Rel 2Rel 3Rel 4Rel 5Rel 6Rel 7
Parents
Uncles & Aunts
Cousins
Nephews & Nieces
Friends
Dr. Khin Maung Zaw / Frank, Dr. Myo San / Freddie, Dr. Khin Maung U / George, Dr. Nyunt Nyunt Wai / Amy, Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint / Johnny Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint Dr. Sann Oo, Daw Than Yi / Maubin Ma Shwe Than Friends 4Friends 5Friends 6Nyunt Maung San, Tin Tin Myint / Emma Norcal 1NorCal 2NorCal 3NorCal 4NorCal 5
Let Oo Sayas
Three Generations
My beloved parents
My spouse and I
My elder son
With my beloved parents
St. Paul’s High School, Rangoon
De la Salle Brothers
Sayas / Male teachers
Sayamas / Female Teachers
SPHS Staff
Dr. Khin Mg Mg & Dr. Rafiul Ahad
Dr. Khin Mg Mg (Physics) : Prof and Chair, Physics & Astronomy, University of Mississippi
Dr. Rafiul Ahad (Computer Science) : Retired VP, Oracle USA
KMM RA 1KMM RA 2KMM RA 3KMM RA 4
Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt)
Fourth in Burma in the Matriculation Exam in 1963
Retired Professor, Physiology at Institute of Medicine (1) and (2)
Nyaung Yan & Ma Soe Yein Nyaung Yan 1Nyaung Yan 2Mahasi, Nyaung Yan, Mingun Dhammanda Vihara, Half Moon Bay, California
U Sobhana
U Silananda
U Jotalankara
U Osadha
Relatives
Rel 1Rel 2Rel 3Rel 4Rel 5Rel 6Rel 7
Parents
Uncles & Aunts
Cousins
Nephews & Nieces
Friends
Dr. Khin Maung Zaw / Frank, Dr. Myo San / Freddie, Dr. Khin Maung U / George, Dr. Nyunt Nyunt Wai / Amy, Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint / Johnny Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint Dr. Sann Oo, Daw Than Yi / Maubin Ma Shwe Than Friends 4Friends 5Friends 6Nyunt Maung San, Tin Tin Myint / Emma Norcal 1NorCal 2NorCal 3NorCal 4NorCal 5
Let Oo Sayas
Three Generations
My beloved parents
My spouse and I
My elder son
With my beloved parents
St. Paul’s High School, Rangoon
De la Salle Brothers
Sayas / Male teachers
Sayamas / Female Teachers
SPHS Staff
Dr. Khin Mg Mg & Dr. Rafiul Ahad
Dr. Khin Mg Mg (Physics) : Prof and Chair, Physics & Astronomy, University of Mississippi
Dr. Rafiul Ahad (Computer Science) : Retired VP, Oracle USA
KMM RA 1KMM RA 2KMM RA 3KMM RA 4
Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt)
Fourth in Burma in the Matriculation Exam in 1963
Retired Professor, Physiology at Institute of Medicine (1) and (2)
Most have Cataracts removed from one or both eyes. A few had Full or Partial transplant of the Cornea. Some had Retina Tear repaired. Glaucoma and several other factors can cause impaired Vision.
Saya U Ba Toke played soccer and was active in the RU Sports Council. In his 70s and early 80s, Saya took weekly walks from his house to the Shwe Dagon pagoda. Aging gradually restricted Saya’s mobility, hearing and eye sight. Saya passed away on December 2, 2020 (the day following the RU Centennial), but a few days short of his Centennial Birthday.
When Saya U Moe Aung encountered problem with his knee during a trip to Upper Burma to attend Ah Hlu of a Khamee Khamet, he composed a poem on “Stationary & Movement” with philosophical musings about Life, Illness and Death. A surgery relieved Saya from the use of wheel chair, but as a high school goalkeeper he values Mobility, Agility & Strength.
Sayagadaw appreciated Saya U Moe Aung’s “Poem Gift” on her birthday.
Bagyee Myat Myo Myint gave “Pon Tu” of the then Marla Hall Thu as a birthday present for his beloved spouse.
Ko Aung Min (M69) used the term Vitamin F in an invitation to the 69er Annual Dinner and Entertainment.
Saya U Moe Aung wrote :
Actually, before suffering from knee pain, I had cataract removed from my left eye some 30 or so years back (couldn’t recall which year) and then from my right eye after a lapse of about 10 years. But, I was lucky, so to speak, that up till the present, haven’t yet encountered any problem whatsoever except the need to change the power lens for a better viewing focus.
U Aung Min (M69) wrote :
I had right eye cornea transplantation 19 years ago, but unsuccessful . Again cataract removal on left eye It’s OK up to now.
Oral and Written Historian of my alma mater with the help of sayas, sayamas, and alums who shared their walks down memory lane and precious photos to be published in the “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” (1999 – present).
Class of 69
Our Class is unique in the following sense.
Four Government Examinations
Took the last ever 7th Std Government exam in 1960.
Took the first ever 9th Std — High School Final Only Exam — in March 1962. Except for English, we had to answer all subjects in Burmese. Under the tight security imposed by the 17-man Revolutionary Council, we completed the exam.
To our surprise and dismay, the HSF examination for Rangoon Division was annulled. Had given my text books. Had to re-take the HSF exam in August 1962.
Took the 10th Std — Matric (only) Exam — in May 1963. 1263 students from Rangoon. Khin Maung U (SPHS) stood first in the whole of Burma. He was followed by Min Oo (SPHS, 2nd), Myo San (Freddie, SPHS, 3rd, GBNF), Nyunt Wai (Victor, SPHS, 4th), Thein Wai (SPHS, 5th), Kenny Wong (MEHS, 6th) and Hla Min (SPHS, 7th).
SPHS63
SPHS had five in the Top Five, seven in the Top Ten, and ten in the Top Twenty. They were awarded Collegiate Scholarship for 75 Kyats a month.
Guinea Pig of Education Systems
The education system wanted us to spend one more year in school before attending the university.
Is it our fate or destiny to serve as guinea pigs of Educators?
I.Sc. (A) at Leik Khone
Attended the last ever I. Sc.(A) classes at “Leik Khone လိပ်ခုံး” on Prome Road. Leik Khone was used by Faculty of Engineering before it moved to Gyogone.
Leik Khone
Willie Soe Maung (Myint Soe, GBNF), Kyaw Wynn, Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF) and I — joined RUBC. Our crew was Senior Novices Runner-up at the Monsoon Regatta. Earned Full Greens at the end of the season.
Due to security reasons (following the Anniversary protests of 7th July), the Annual Regatta was cancelled, but Sithu U Tin (President, RUBC) decided to hold the Dinner gathering for the 40th Anniversary at Orient Club in Kandawgyi. Souvenir Magazine was compiled by Sithu U Tin (GBNF), U Po Zon (GBNF) and U Tin Htoon.
RUBC 40th Anniversary
Took the last ever I. Sc.(A) exam at the designated high schools.
Most of Rangoon University (except Medical and Engineering Colleges) were suspended following the fateful anniversary celebration of “7th July and the demolition of the historic Rangoon University Students’ Union”.
Those who were a year senior to us in High School graduated 2.5 years ahead of us. We lost 1.5 precious years.
School Closure
Before the universities reopened, scholarship bids (mostly to Soviet Union and East Bloc nations) were opened to students who are 18+ years old. I did not qualify. Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF) and Kyaw Wynn received scholarship to study Engineering at Dresden University in GDR.
New Education System
The then new “University Education System” replaced the “old” model of Rangoon University with several Faculties : Arts, Science, Social Science, Engineering, Medicine, Law.
The system created institutes such as Rangoon Institute of Technology, Institute of Medicine, Institute of Economics, and Institute of Education.
RASU (Rangoon Arts and Science University) and MASU (Manadalay Arts and Science University) were the core left from the Rangoon University and Mandalay University.
In November 1964, three batches of students were admitted to the first ever 1st B.E., 2nd B.E., and 3rd B.E. classes.
RIT Grads (1969 & 1987)
Ma Than Yi (Maubin Ma Shwe Than, EP70) has blogged about her reminiscences of 1st B.E.
Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70) and Ko Ohn Khine (M70) have described the academic and extra-curricular activities for ’64 to ’70.
Zaw Min (Standing 2nd from Right)
The list of 400+ students who entered 1st BE has been compiled by Ko Ohn Khine and team. Notable alumni from that class have also been portrayed in their Golden Jubilee Magazine published in November, 2014.
Ohn Khine
The list of 300+ students who entered 2nd BE has been compiled by Ko Aung Min (M69) and team. 69ers had major reunions for 30th Anniversary (in 1999), 40th Anniversary (in 2009), SPZP-2012, Pseudo-Golden Jubilee (for the admission to RIT) in 2014, True Golden Jubilee (for graduation) z& SPZP in December, 2019. Sad to note that more than 40% from the class are GBNF.
Aung Min (Right)
The authorities used I.Sc (A) results to admit students to 2nd B.E. I was at the top of the list followed by Taing Oke and Kenny Wong.
I was selected Luyechun (Outstanding Student) along with Ko Sein Shwe (4th BE), Ko Zaw Min (1st BE), and Ma Khin Than Myint Tin (Margaret, 2nd BE, RIT selected in track and Field). In the summer of 1965, we attended the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp with Luyechuns from other universities and institutes, and high school.
Luyechun
Several high school Luyechuns (e.g. Ma Pwint Than, Uttam Singh, Ko Aung Win, Ko Win Myint) joined RIT two years later.
Difficult Choices
EE69
Had to decide Major before attending 3rd BE. Civil and Mechanical were the top choices. Many joined RIT faculty after graduation.
80+ students — Ko Thein Swe (GBNF), Ko Khin Maung Win (GBNF), Ko Aung Kyaw Pe, Ko Tun Aung Gyaw, Ko Toung and I — chose to major in Electrical. Joined by some seniors. Some took sabbatical or were hit by the infamous 75% attendance rule, or by the strict moderation (failing a minor subject even though the average was 2.5+)
Had to decide before attending 5th BE. Ratio of EP (Power) to EC (Communication) was 3:1. Rationale was that EP had a reasonably good market with EPC being the chief employer of EP graduates. EC had a limited market with PTC, BBS, DCA, and MOC/MOGE.
Many top students such as Ko Thein Swe, Ko Khin Maung Win and Ko Aung Kyaw Pe chose to major in EP. After graduation, most joined EPC and other corporations.
13 or so students such as Ko Tun Aung Gyaw, Ko Toung and I chose to major in EC. Ma Tin Tin (Ann), the lone female EE student, chose EC. Ko Than Lwin (Henry) joined the faculty. Some worked for DCA, MOC and Schlumberger. A couple migrated to the US.
Universities’ Computer Center
At one Burma Research Conference, Saya U Soe Paing presented a paper on digital computers zand logic. Sayagyi Dr. Chit Swe (GBNF) requested Saya U Soe Paing to help him with the UCC project to be submitted to UNDP).
Saya U Soe Paing requested top EC students to join his project. The proposal, vetting, and approval of UNDP projects took a long time; so many students took available jobs.
When the project was finally approved by UNDP, UCC was established at Thamaing College Campus. Dr. Chit Swe became the founder/director. U Soe Paing, U Myo Min, and U Ko Ko Lay (GBNF), became co-founders and Managers. After volunteering for a considerable time, Ko Tun Aung Gyaw and I joined UCC as the first batch of employees.
UCC
For details, read “Computer Ah Sa UCC Ga” by U Soe Paing, my interview with Mandalay Gazette and my series of articles “Memories of UCC”.
Mandalay Gazette
Activities
In my Newsletter Updates, I mentioned some of my extra-curricular activities.
Class Representative, Magazine Committee member, Joint Secretary and Secretary of RIT Electrical Engineering Association.
Last ever elected Treasurer and Vice Captain of Rangoon University Boat Club. Due to the changes in policy, I was denied to become Captain (as originally stipulated by RUBC rules). Higher authorities installed a committee of sayas to oversee RUBC.
As a member of the RIT Rowing team, I attended the “Appreciation” Ceremony by the RIT Sports Council, then chaired by Saya U Maung Maung Than. Applauded the accomplishments of multi-sports athletes such as Ko Aung Khin (M 67), Saw Maung Maung Htwe (Class of 70), Ko Khin Maung Lay (Henry, T 68), and Inter Institute Champions (Badminton, Chinlon, Soccer, Table Tennis, Tennis, Weight lifting & Body Building).
Served as EC & editor of RIT English Association. Represented 2nd BE in a debate along with Ko Myo Tun (Bobby), and Ko Khin Maung Win (Roland Thein). The 1st BE team led by Ahmed Soorma won. Received “Rhyming Dictionary” as a prize. Gave my dictionary to Ashin Ananda (Rev. F. Lutvig, Poet Laureate).
Founding member of RIT Chess Association along with the accomplished players like Ko Aung Than, Ko Maung Maung, Ko Thet Lwin (Henry) and visiting Soviet lecturers.
Joined Universities’ Training Corps (UTC) for a while before the schedule conflicts with rowing.
Sai Kyaw Aye (part-time BBS) invited us to learn and sing “Auld Lang Syne” in Shan.
Wrote short notes for “Hset Hmu Thadin Zin” and articles for “Hlyat Sit Sar Saung” & “RIT English Bulletin”.
In July 1969, I wrote a poem “Men on the Moon” to honor the Apollo 11 mission. It was published in the Guardian daily newspaper. A copy was sent by Mr. Hall (USIS) to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
In December 1969, Daw Khin Swe Hla asked me to translate a short story “Nge Thay Loe” by Sayagyi U Thu Kha for publishing as the Sunday Supplement for Working People’s Daily (WPD). My translation “Still So Young” earned me 50 kyats. U Thu Ka was given an honorarium of 50 kyats. In those days, 1 US dollar was worth 5 to 6 kyats.
In my Newsletter Updates, I mentioned about my dreams — to get the sayas and alums reconnected electronically and physically, and to repay the metta and cetana of my mentors. U Soe Paing was a driving force, and Ko Khin Maung Zaw worked long weekends to set up http://www.ex-rit.org
Was a saya at UCC, DCS and ICST. Attended the 5th and 6th Arcariya Pu Zaw Pwe of ICST and UCSY.
I am not a saya at RIT. I was not eligible for the world wide SPZPs.
I was deeply moved when Saya U Moe Aung visited Ko Tin Aung Win’s house after SPZP-2007 and accompanied us to the air port. Before SPZP-2012, Saya gave me two vintage RIT Annual Magazines from his private collection and other gifts.
Dr. Soe Thein (C75), web master & videographer of SPZP-2007, invited me to the Civil Reunion & SPZP. He invited me to the C75 gathering before SPZP-2012.
I had contact with Ko Wynn Htain Oo (M72) via Facebook. M72 group (WHO, Ko Myint Pe, …) invited me to join the M72 gathering and mini-SPZP. Event was solemn, because Ko Khin Maung Toe had passed away. “Thamudaya Kyaung” DVD is among my souvenirs.
Smiles from my mentors, and “random acts of kindness” help me burn midnight oil and keep on going the extra mile.
I would like to end by paying tribute to the countless sayas, sayamas, and alums who have kept the RIT Spirit alive and well.
Tribute
The following provide different perspectives of our beloved alma mater.
RIT Annual Magazines Chief Editors include Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi, Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF) and Saya U Moe Aung. Publishers include U Hla and Saya U Thet Lwin. Limited edition of 23 (or so) RIT Annual Magazines was reprinted for SPZP-2012
Discipline-wide magazines such as “Hlat Sit Sar Saung” (published by the RIT Electrical Engineering Association with Saya U Moe Aung as Chief Editor and Publisher)
Weekly “Hset Hmu Thadin Zin” founded by Ko Win Thein (M 67, GBNF) and associates An alum couple archived several years worth of Hset Hmu Thadin Zin
“Cartoon Box” founded by Ko Myint Pe (M 72) with the patronage of Saya U Khin Maung Phone Ko (“Phone Ko”, C64, cartoonist for Kye Mon newspaper and several magazines) and Saya U Aung Myint (Pet 69, creator of “Kyant Ba Hone”, GBNF)
Ko Myint Pe & team compiled cartoons from Cartoon Box, Hset Hmu Thadin Zin, and RIT Annual Magazines for the commemorative issue of “RIT Cartoons” for SPZP-2012. Three (or so) generations of Cartoon Box authors set up a booth at SPZP-2012 and autographed books for sale.
HMEE — History of Myanmar Engineering Education by Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF) and team. Sayagyi U Ba Than, U Thaw Kaung (Chief Librarian, Rangoon University Central Library), and U Soe Paing (EE, UCC) provided historical photos & documents
The companion CD to the HMEE-2012 Book was compiled by Ko Ohn Khine (M 70) and me
Commemorative web pages for SPZP-2000 include 64 “Count down to the Reunion”, 36 “Post-Reunion” articles, & “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” poem
Early “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” by me were posted in http://www.ex-rit.org (now dormant)
Subsequent “RIT Alumni International Newsletter Updates” by Ko Hla Min (EC 69) were posted in http://www.rit-alumni.info (now dormant)
RIT-related Facebook Pages Saya U Moe Aung, Saya U Kyaw Sein (M65, GBNF) Ma Than Yi (EP70), Ko Ohn Khine (M70), Ko Saw Lin (C71, GBNF), Ko Myint Pe (M72), Ko Wynn Htain Oo (M72), Ko Khin Maung Lwin (M87)
Commemorative issue of “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” for SPZP-2000″ edited by me & team
Commemorative issues of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010 edited & published by Saya U Moe Aung and team
Commemorative issue of “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine” for SPZP-2012, Shwe YaDu in 2014 and SPZP-2016
“Shwe YaDu Magazine” edited by Ko Khin Maung Lay (M70) & team was published in conjunction with the Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe of the combined 1st BE intake of ’64 and ’65
“Thamudaya Kyaung (Parts One and Two)” DVD : Based on the poems by Maung Sein Win (Padeegone); Played and sung by Ko Khin Maung Toe (GBNF)
Swel Daw Yeik Ah Nyeint According to Saya U Moe Aung, the term “Swel Daw Yeik” became an official synonym for RIT, its predecessors and successors at the Rangoon University Golden Jubilee celebrations in 1970. Ma Mya Than Win (Minthamee) and Ko Myint Pe (Lu Shwin Daw) were members of the Swel Daw Yeik Ah Nyeint.
Gee Ta See Sar (Musical evening) : Ko Kyaw Oo (pianist, GBNF), Ko Yu Swan (Don min), Sayama “Emma” Tin Tin Myint, Ko Kyaw Htin (“Chee Hte Nu Nu Kyaw”), Ko Than Myaing, Ko Tin Maung Aye, Ko Soe Aung and Ko La Min are some of the performers at the early Gee Ta See Sar’s
Saya U Moe Aung, Saya U Thet Lwin, Saya U Saw Tun (“Saw Lu”), Saya Dr. Taing Oke (“Yin Maung”), U Toee Maung, U Than Po (GBNF) are some of the “Zat Saya” and/or composers.
U Thet Lwin‘s compositions include “Mya Kyun Nyo Nyo Kun Yeik Kho” (granted a “Dat Pyar” by Burma Broadcasting Service). The song has been sung at the various RIT-related gatherings such as Singapore Thingyan and world-wide SPZPs.The song was sung in the ceremony (on December 1, 2019) to kick off the Rangoon University Centennial Celebration.
Thoughts
Hla Min
To paraphrase the Curator of Smithsonian Museum, “There is no unique history. It is not uncommon to have parallel competing and often contradictory histories of an event.”
Feel free to revise my recollections of my RIT days and my contributions as an informal historian.
Served as a messenger for the RIT & Engineering Community for 27 years.
Newsletter
Newsletter
RIT Alumni International Newsletter was started in April 1999. Served as Chief Editor. In the early days, many RIT sayas and alumni provided articles, news & photos.
Messenger 2
RIT website
Maurice, HM, KMZ, Benny
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) designed & implemented ex-rit.org website.
I served as Editor and Content Provider of the website.
Several hundred accessed the first RIT website.
The website played an important part for planning and implementing First RIT Grand Reunion & Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000) held in San Francisco, California, USA in October 2000.
Some traveled from Burma, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Australia & New Zealand to attend SPZP-2000.
SPZP-2000
Membership
Founding member, RIT Alumni International
Founding member, NorCal RITAA
Life member, RITAA
Life member, BAPS
Life member, RUBC
Member, HMEE Project
Former Docent, Computer History Museum
Former member, ACM & SF Bay Area Chapter
Former member, IEEE (CS)
NorCal RITAA
Sharing News
Able to share news — good, sad and bad.
Jara and Byadihave caused a decline in health of sayas and alumni. Marana has claimed the lives of several especially during the pandemic.
Some sayas and alumni are Gone But Not Forgotten. The GBNF list for 69ers has 137 members.
With the event of social media, the number of RIT related pages grew. There are many silent readers and few active contributors.
Fact Checking
Being a messenger is not easy.
When an alumni asked me to relay the demise of U Ne Win Myint (Victor Win, ChE66), I double checked before posting the news. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Even then, someone who is near & dear to Jean (Mrs. Victor) claimed that Ko Victor was hospitalized, but had not passed away. The claim confused some alumni before the sad news was confirmed & details of the last journey were published.
Victor (Center)
When Dr. Tin Hlaing, former Principal of Maritime Studies, passed away in Singapore, an alumni posted Condolence message in the Facebook pages to the family of Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63). Saya became a Tone Kyaw.
Dr. Tin Hlaing
There are fact checking websites. They have reports about Urban Myths & Legends.
Concerns
Some sayas & alumni want privacy. They do not want news of their visits or failing health to be relayed. We have to respect their concerns.
There are many posts by sayas, alumni & friends. The posts may be public, restricted or private. We have to be careful before sharing or re-posting them.
Most people do not have the time & energy to read long posts. A post should have an interesting & informative message.
As my mentors said, “The message is usually much more important than the messenger.”
Thanks
The RIT Spirit is alive and well.
Kudos to sayas, alumni, sponsors, donors, volunteers & well wishers.
Updates
I belong to various circles.
I have posted about them in my FB pages and website.
Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt, Ko Thein Naing (Patrick) and Ko Myint Swe attended the Baby Shower for our daughter-in-law.
U Tin Mg Nyunt
We now have a grand daughter and a grand son.
My beloved mom
She is holding my elder son.
The photo shows
a son of my elder brother
two sons of my eldest sister
a son and a daughter of my elder sister
GM with six grand kids
Thingyan
Burma celebrates the Burmese New Year in mid-April. Thingyan is the associated Water Festival.
For logistics, the San Francisco Bay Area celebrates Thingyan in May.
Thingyan
Uncle U Thein Han
He is my mom’s youngest brother. He worked for IBM Burma before moving to the USA.
We visited him in Maryland in 2015.
Sadly, he passed away on Sept 29, 2025. He was 96+ years old.
Uncle U Thein Han 1
My aunt taught Psychology at Rangoon University. She studied Library Science in the USA. She retired as Head of the Burmese Collection at the Library of Congress.
Uncle U Thein Han 2
Their elder son is a medical doctor in Texas. Their younger son is a Civil Engineer in Maryland.
Had good memory and strong hands until his final days
Tin U
Passed away in Yangon on August 19, 2025
He was 96 years young.
Obituary
Obituary
Final Journey
Attended by Family members, relatives and friends
Invitation for Yet Le Soon KywayAye Aye Khin (Daughter)Thin Thiri Tun (Granddaughter)
Academic & Experience
BSCE (Oregon State University)
MSCE (Yale University)
Former Part-time Lecturer, Civil
Former Director, Clark & Grieg
Former Advisor, InterKiln
Former Advisor, PWD Architect Group 2
Oldest & Most Senior Past Captain, Rangoon University Boat Club
Past Captain, Rangoon Golf Club
Former Treasurer, Burma Society of Civil Engineers
Family
U Tin U, Aye Aye Khin, Daw Cherry, Ye Myint, Peter
Spouse
Dr. Cherry 1
Dr. Khin Kyi Nyunt (Cherry) — passed away in November 2019
She did Nutrition Research at BMRI.
Children
Peter & his mom Dr. Cherry Family & RelativesAye Aye. Dr. Cherry, Dr. Peter, U Tin UFamily & Relatives 2Daw San San Aye, U Tin U, Dr. Ye Myint& Dr. Aye Sandar
Dr. Khin Tun (Peter, MRCP, Former Associate Dean of Oxford University, passed away in April 2020) & Daw Winmar;
Daw Aye Aye Khin (B.Com, CPA) & U Tin Tun (passed away in May 2020)
Dr. Ye Myint (Fellowship training in Intensive Care and Anesthesia, Took care of his father’s health in the final days) & Daw San San Aye
YM 1 YM 2 YM 3
Grandchildren
Min Ko & Prudence
Ye Aung
Dr. Aye Sandar
Thin Thiri Tun
Dr. Khin Sandy Tun
Great Grandchildren
Su Wai Tun
Hnin Wai Tun
Peter, Winmar, Ye Aung, Min Ko
Siblings
U Tin U, Ruby, Father U Chan Sein, BettyBa Than, Myo Tint, Myo Min, Thaung Lwin, Tin Htoon, Tin U U Tin Htoon, U Tin U, U Ba Than, U Thaung Lwin, Dr. Myo TintSix Siblings
U Ba Than (Scholarship Winner in 1947, Gold Medalist for I.Sc in 1949, Alumnus of Imperial College, Retd. Prof. of Mech. Engg) — GBNF
Dr. Daw Win Hlaing (Ruby)
Daw Myint Thwe (Betty, B.Com, Spouse of Dr. F Ba Hli) — GBNF
Dr. Myo Tint (3rd in Burma in 1952, RUBC Captain) — GBNF
U Tin Htoon (A60, RUBC Captain, ARAE Champion, SEAP Silver Medalist in Yachting)
U Myo Min (1st in I.Com & B.Com, Chartered Acct, UCC Co-founder)
U Thaung Lwin (Scholarship Winner in 1960, First in EC66, RUBC Captain)
Daw Cho Cho Hlaing (CRO, German Diploma)
Highlights
Matriculated from St. John’s Dio in 1946
Represented RUBC at the 1948 Independence Day Regatta at Kandawgyi with Pe Nyun, Pe Thein and Khin Maung Wint
1948 Independence Day Regatta
Rowing
Four brothers — Tin U, Myo Tint, Tin Htoon & Thaung Lwin — are RUBC Captain & Gold
Two other brothers — Ba Than and Myo Min — are RUBC Green
Tin U & Thaung LwinRUBC Captains
Photo shows Five RUBC Captains. Sein Htoon (Cox) is a cousin; he is 1960 ARAE Champion
Most Senior Past Captain
Captain of Rangoon University Boat Club (1948 – 49)
RUBC
As the Most Senior and Oldest Past Captain of RUBC, U Tin U was invited to open the RUBC Centennial Celebration in 2023
RUBC Centennial
Bridge
Played with friends (e.g Richard Po Ohn)
Played with Uncle and two cousins
Golf
Past Captain, RGC
Played with senior (e.g U Yaw Hlaing) & junior (e.g U Soe Paing) partners until his early 80s
Memories
Relaxing in the garden
Tin U
Visit
With Than Htut
Interviews
For RGC (Rangoon Golf Club)
For HMEE (History of Myanmar Engineering Education)
For his grandson Min Ko
Kidnap Survivor
See account by his son Dr. Khin Tun (Peter)
Yahan Khan
Yahan Khan
Garawa
SPZP-2012
SPZP-2012
PWD Architect 2 Group
PWD 1PWD 2PWD 3
Birthday Presents
Photo Album for 90th birthday by Tin Htoon & Htaik San
Photo Cards for several birthdays by Tin Htoon & family
Birthday Card from U Tin Htoon & family
U Ba Than
With 90th Birthday Present (Photo Album)Young U Ba ThanAt Saya Pu Zaw Pwe with Sayagyi U Ba TokeDouble Dana : Donated Garawa money to selected CharitiesPartial List of DonationsIn Singapore for medical check upWith former students, who came to pay respectAt Winner Inn
Mother : Daw Oo Yin (daughter of Sir Po Tha & Lady Tha)
Sons : Myo Paing, Soe Paing, Win Paing, Kyaw Paing
Dr. Myo Paing (SPHS54)
Medical doctor & researcher (at BMRI)
Early assignment was Malaria Campaign
Champion golfer.
U Soe Paing (SPHS56)
U Soe Paing
In the Matric exam of 1956, he stood 13th in Burma and won a Collegiate Scholarship.
In 1958, he received two Gold medals : one for Highest Total Marks for I.Sc (Combined) & another for Joint Highest Marks in Maths for I.Sc (Combined).
While attending Engineering classes at RU, he received State Scholarship to study Electrical Engineering at Stanford University in the USA.
Received BS and MS in EE (Electrical Engineering) from Stanford University.
Upon his return, he joined the EE Department at RIT as Assistant Lecturer. He helped Sayagyi Dr. Chit Swe with the UCC project.
Transferred to UCC as Manager of Systems Division.
After reorganization, he also managed the Operations Division.
Received M.Sc. in Computer Science from University of Southampton, UK.
Taught CS courses at UCC. He co-authored Programming Texts, Lecture Guides and Manuals with U Aung Zaw and me.
Worked for UN projects in several countries.
Wrote “Computer Ah Sa UCC Ga” and his experiences as a States Scholar and UN Advisor. They can be read from SCRIB-D
After retirement, Saya spent time playing golf & practicing vipassana meditation.
During his UCC days, he served as a Golf Correspondent. I helped him type about the competition at RGC (Rangoon Golf Club) and BGC (Burma Golf Club) and submit to the English newspapers.
Visited RUCL. Compiled material for HMEE Project & prepared a Draft. Translated Section 1 of the HMEE book and summarized Section 2.
Gave an interview to MASTAA
U Win Paing (SPHS64)
U Wara 1U Wara 2U Wara 3
Won Golf Championships with his younger brother U Kyaw Paing.
After finishing the finals for ChE (Chemical Engineering) exam in 1970, he became a monk.
Served as Taik Oke for about four decades before becoming Chief Resident Monk of Kaba Aye Sunlun Gu Kyaung Sayadaw.
Known as Sayadaw U Wara.
He is now GBNF.
U Kyaw Paing (SPHS67)
Represented Burma in the Putra Cup.
Lawyer and entrepreneur.
U Khin Maung Zaw (EC76) wrote :
For number of years, I was the carrier-cum-postman to bring Saya U Soe Paing’s typed golf news to the WPD, Working Peoples’ Daily at Theingbyu Street! Just one of the chores I had in those days.
I remember jokingly asked Sayadaw U Wara how he felt seeing the (18th??) hole over the fence from the Sunlun Kyaung’s “Thein”. The new golf course was built for VIPs inside Kabaaye, and that particular hole was seen from the “Thein” less than 40-50 yards, of course over the fence.
Updates
Nyi Lynn Seck created a family tree for Sir Po Tha
Dr. Khin Maung Zaw / Frank, Dr. Myo San / Freddie, Dr. Khin Maung U / George, Dr. Nyunt Nyunt Wai / Amy, Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint / Johnny Dr. Thane Oke Kyaw Myint Dr. Sann Oo, Daw Than Yi / Maubin Ma Shwe Than Friends 4Friends 5Friends 6Nyunt Maung San, Tin Tin Myint / Emma Norcal 1NorCal 2NorCal 3NorCal 4NorCal 5
Let Oo Sayas
Three Generations
My beloved parents
My spouse and I
My elder son
With my beloved parents
St. Paul’s High School, Rangoon
De la Salle Brothers
Sayas / Male teachers
Sayamas / Female Teachers
SPHS Staff
Dr. Khin Mg Mg & Dr. Rafiul Ahad
Dr. Khin Mg Mg (Physics) : Prof and Chair, Physics & Astronomy, University of Mississippi
Dr. Rafiul Ahad (Computer Science) : Retired VP, Oracle USA
KMM RA 1KMM RA 2KMM RA 3KMM RA 4
Dr. Nyunt Wai (Victor Nyunt)
Fourth in Burma in the Matriculation Exam in 1963
Retired Professor, Physiology at Institute of Medicine (1) and (2)
HlaMin 