Rice is the staple food of Burma. What about Mohinga မုန့်ဟင်းခါး ?
Most people eat Mohinga for breakfast. A few can eat Mohinga any time of the day — breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Breakfast in Windsor
In 2015, Ivan Lee (M69, New Jersey), Fred Thetgyi (M69, Philadelphia), my spouse and I (from California) visited Windsor, Canada to pay respect to Sayagyi U Aung Khin (Former Professor and Head of Mechanical Engineering at the Rangoon Institute of Technology.
Sayagyi’s Mohinga
Sayagyi allowed my spouse and I to sleep at his guest room. He got up early to prepare Mohinga and Ah Kyaw အကျော် (Fries) for breakfast for the four of us. He also gave us mementos from Windsor.
Cost of Mohinga
During our younger days, plain Mohinga used to cost 15 pyas. With Ah Kyaw, we would pay 25 pyas.
Special recipe
Most vendors cannot match the taste of the Buthee Kyaw ဗူးသီးကျော် using a formula by a cousin aunt to accompany the Mohinga cooked by my beloved father and his assistants.
The best part is that we do not have to pay for the sumptuous “all you can eat” meal.
Variety
There are a variety of ways to prepare and cook Mohinga.
Some variables are
choice of fish ငါး အမျိုးအစား : Hinthada ဟင်္သာတ uses up to three kinds of fish. Some places use minimal fish. A few — notably Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo (EP74, GBNF) — tried to have a layman’s Mohinga using canned fish.
choice of “San Hmont” ဆန်မှုန့် or “Pei Hmont” ပဲမှုန့်
use of “Ngan Pya Yay” ငံပြာရည် and condiments
some add ကြက်သွန်ဥ & ငှက်ပျောဖတ်နုနု
mode of cooking for a small group or a large group of people
how to keep it fresh (without getting spoiled due to inclement weather).
Mohinga Story
There’s a story that is near and dear to me.
My spouse’s maternal grandma အဖွား was oblivious to the political, social & economic changes. Every morning, she would call a grand child. She would open her little purse inside a big purse, and then unwrap two or three layers of paper to get her money. She would dole out ten pyas ဆယ်ပြား to buy Mohinga for her.
One day she could not finish a spoonful of Mohinga. Her breath slowly faded with her head resting on my lap. There was no sigh. She passed away gently.
My spouse belongs to the elite company of Mohinga lovers. She enjoys Mohinga for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Mohinga Lover
I have a fear စိုးရိမ်ပူပန်စိတ် for the day when she might refuse to have Mohinga & follow her grandma.
G Hall Thu 1G Hall Thu 2G Hall Thu 3G Hall Thu 4G Hall Thu 5
Photos by Daw Pwint Than (EP71)
Daw Pwint Than (EP71) received a dhamma book as a gift prize from a younger alumni.
She thanks the young energetic “Nyi Ma Nge Myar” for helping organize the memorable get together with the old (former Hall Tutors, classmates) and the new.
Pu Zaw Pwe is a Noble Tradition that is practiced in Burma.
Thet Kyee PZP is for paying respect to the Elders. The age requirements vary.
Saya PZP is for paying respect to the sayas and sayamas. Some use the term Acariya PZP.
Thet Kyee PZP
In some places, a Senior Day is held. Transportation, Food, Entertainment and Photo-shoot are provided for Old people of all races and creeds.
Thet Kyee PZP may be held in conjunction with a Festival, e.g Thingyan or Thadinkyut. Buddhists may also pay respect physically to the Elders.
MES organized Thet Kyee PZP for Senior Engineers and Architects.
The All-Mechanical Gathering also had a program to pay respect to Thet Kyee Mechanical Engineers.
Acariya PZP
Examples :
Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65
M72 (and some other Disciplines)
ICST/UCSY
Saya PZP
RIT Alumni International hosted the First RIT Grand Reunion and SPZP in San Francisco, California in October 2000. The term SPZP was chosen over Saya Ga Dawt Pwe so that Alumni of different Faith can pay back the Metta and Cetana of their mentors. I am honored to be a Core Organizer of SPZP-2000. I wrote the poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE”. It was published in the RIT website and the Commemorative Issue of the RIT Alumni Newsletter for SPZP-2000.
Singapore hosted SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) and team published Commemorative Issue of Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for the SPZPs. My poem was reprinted on the Back Cover of SDYSS-2002. I wrote a poem “SWE DAW YEIK” for SDYSS-2007. I wrote an article “EE Sayas : A Sad and Short Clip” for SDYSS-2010.
Yangon hosted SPZP-2004, SPZP-2012 and SPZP-2016. Commemorative Issue of Swel Daw Yeik Magazine was published for SPZP-2012 and SPZP-2016. U Saw Lin (GBNF) was Chief Editor of SDYM-2012. Saya U Moe Aung was Chief Editor of SPZP-2016. Several Distinguished Authors (e.g Ma Sandar, Maung Sein Win — Padeegone, N Jar Thaing, Aw Pi Kye) also served as Editors.
Due to the pandemic, SPZP-2020 was canceled.
Some of the Organizers and Volunteers of the SPZPs are GBNF. They include Saya Allen Htay, Ko Saw Lin, Ko Aung Moung, Ko Than Sin Myint and Ko Robin.
Several Sayas are GBNF. They include U Ba Toke, H Num Kok, U Soe Khaw, U Khin Aung Kyi, U Thit, Dr. Mg Mg Win, S Arya, S Kyaw Aye, U Soe Lwin.
Sayas U Ba Than, U Aung Khin, Dr. Aung Gyi and U Min Win are 90+ years young. Many of our sayas are 80+ years young.
We hope to see SPZPs in the not so distant future (after the Calamities have ended).
I matriculated in 1949 and entered the University of Rangoon and stayed in Ava Hall and took the Intermediate of Science (ISc) courses. The courses were: English, Burmese, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (Pure and Applied Maths). We needed to take these courses for two years in order to go to the engineering studies. I remember having a great time in the first year as we did not have to take the examination at the end of the first year for some unknown reason. But we had to take the examination at the end of the second year for all the subject matters that were taught to us for the whole two years. It was a tough examination at the end of the second year as we had to study a lot. We had physics and chemistry examination papers, two mathematics papers, English and Burmese papers, physics lab practical exam and chemistry lab practical exam within a period of 15 to 20 days in the hot month of March. Only about 60% of the students passed through the first time. The passing grade for each subject was 40%. Fortunately the University authorities in those days were understanding and kind enough to give the failed students what they called compartmental examination again in May/June for the failed subjects. Given a second chance like that, a lot of students passed the examination this time around. The Faculty of Engineering admitted the students, including the students who passed the ISc exam. under the compartmental system, with a passing grade of at least 40% for each of ISc subjects and the average passing grade for all the subjects combined of 50%.
I was quite fortunate to have good teachers in my ISc days. I remember that Saya U Than Tin gave good lectures in physics. Saya U Thein Nyunt was good as well in teaching us chemistry. Needless to say the experiments that I had to do in physics and chemistry labs were interesting as they were all new to me.The maths teachers I remember were Professor U Aung Hla, Sayagyi U Kar, Sayagyi U Ba Toke, two Indian lecturers with the same last name Chowdhury. I forgot their first names. One Chowdhury was bald headed and the other had a lot of hair.They were teaching, I think, under contract with the Rangoon University. These very good teachers, I had to say, gave me a good foundation in mathematics. The English teachers were very good too. They were Saya U Kan Gyi and Sayama E. Kan Gyi. The only Burmese teacher I remember was Saya U Hla Maung who could make a boring topic into an interesting lecture. I owe a lot of gratitude to these wonderful teachers.
I joined the first year engineering class in 1951-1952 academic year, having satisfied the entrance requirements of the Faculty of Engineering mentioned above. The academic year , I think was from June to February with about one month break in October. So far as I know there was a “new course engineering” at the Faculty of engineering right after the World War ll. I do not know what the entrance requirement for this new course was.
I stayed in Prome Hall like most of the other engineering students in those days, as it was situated close to the B.O.C. College of Engineering building where we had classrooms, laboratories, and workshop for our engineering courses. A few engineering students however stayed in Tagaung Hall which was in the same Prome road campus of the Rangoon University as Prome Hall. Both of these hostels were timber buildings and they could easily get burnt down; but I was happy to see that they are still standing there when I visited Yangon in 2010. These two Halls gave accommodations to all engineering students, even to some students from Rangoon at that time, as there were vacancies and as the total engineering student population was not that big. If my guess is correct, I think there were about 350 to 400 students for 4 years of all engineering disciplines, out of which there were about 75 1st year engineering students. The system in place at that time was in such a way that the students had to take common courses in the first 2 years and branched out into different disciplines of choice, starting from 3rd year.
I remember that as first year engineering students, we still had to take mathematics classes from 7:00 am to 9:00 am at the main campus where we had taken the Intermediate of Science courses. I remember getting up early in the morning in Prome Hall ,and taking a walk along the road, what we called as “Padaukpin lane” or “Thaton lane”, and through Thaton Hall and Ava Hall , for the mathematics classes at the main campus. All of us then rushed back to B.O.C. College of Engineering from the main campus after 9:00 am to take theengineering classes, which included lectures, practical laboratory work, workshop practice, and drawing classes, starting from 10:00 am. We normally finished our classes around 4:00 pm. The total contact hours of learning for engineering students were about 30 hours per week. If my memory is correct, it was difficult to get an engineering degree in 6 years after matriculation. Somewhere along the way some of us failed for one reason or the other, and had to repeat a class.The passing grade for each subject, which included workshop training at the Engineering Faculty was 40% and the average passing grade for all the subjects combined was 50%. When I passed my 1st year engineering in April/May 1952 I noticed that about 15% of my classmates were left behind to repeat the 1st year engineering.
I do not remember all of my teachers at that time. I can only recall that Saya Num Kock was in charge of 1st year engineering drawing, Saya Jaidka taught us ” building materials and construction”, Saya Ketrepal gave lectures and practical laboratory training in “heat engines”, Sayagyi U Kyaw Tun / Saya C. Ping Lee taught us “electrotechnology” in the classroom and in the laboratory. In addition to the lectures, laboratory work and drawing, all of us had to take workshop training in carpentry, blacksmith, welding, and in machine shop. The medium of teaching was English. We were also encouraged to take some practical training with some engineering organization during the summer vacation. I am not quite sure , but I think Ko Chit was an assistant at the blacksmith shop, and U Ba Sein was an assistant in the electrical lab. I think Mr P. Davis was the workshop superintendent. The classrooms , laboratory facilities, the workshop facilities that I had attended were good and adequate. The library I visited some time was full of good engineering books, magazines and journals. I could imagine that with its qualified teaching staff and good teaching facilities, the Faculty of Engineering was producing the qualified engineers needed by the country at that time.
I do not know what was the total number of teachers we had at the Faculty of Engineering at that time. I could guess that the student/teaching staff ratio was about 20:1 from the number of teachers and from the number of students I had seen. I noticed that there were few Burmese nationals teaching staff at the Faculty, and most of the teachers were from India and UK. It seems that, right after the World War II, there was shortage of qualified teaching staff from Burma at higher education/University level as a whole. Sayagyi Professor U Ba Hli was Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, and I believe he received his post graduate degree from a British University. He was quite far-sighted and tried to broaden and improve the engineering education by having some kind of twinning arrangements with not only a British University but also with Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA (M.I.T). I remember as a student that there was a visiting Professor called Professor Horwood from M.I.T at the Faculty; and I think he gave us lectures on sanitary engineering. Sayagyi U Ba Hli must have planned to increase the number of engineering disciplines that were given at the Faculty from civil, mechanical and electrical engineering to other disciplines as well, such as Mining, Chemical, Metallurgy, Textile engineering and Architecture. I understood this plan came into fruition in 1954/1955. He must have also planned to send the Burmese nationals to UK, USA and as qualified teaching staff at the Faculty at a later date. I therefore take this opportunity to put on record that a big credit is due to the late Sayagyi U Ba Hli for his contribution to the improvement of engineering education in Myanmar.
Matriculates had to study two years of Intermediate Classes.
Those aspiring to become Engineers had to pass the I.Sc. (Intermediate of Science) classes with 50+ marks in Maths, Physics and Chemistry. They then study four years at the Engineering College for their B.Sc. (Engg) degree.
RU
Rangoon University was opened on 1st December 1920 with Rangoon College and Judson College as constitutent colleges. There were only three Faculties: Arts, Science and Law.
First Strike
The First RU Students’ Strike started on 5th December 1920 to protest the deficiencies of the 1920 RU Act. It led to the opening of National Schools and National College. It also forced amendments to the RU Act (notably in 1923).
Engineering Classes
In 1924, the inaugural engineering classes were opened.
Details can be found in the HMEE (History of Myanmar Engineering Education) book published in 2012. Saya U Aung Hla Tun (GBNF, National Literary Award winner, former Chief Editor of RIT Annual Magazine) served as Leader and Principal Auhor of the book. U Ohn Khine (M70) and I compiled the CD Supplement for the HMEE book.
Engineering students have to attend
I.Sc.(A)
I.Sc.(B)
1st Year of Engineering
2nd Year of Engineering
3rd Year of Engineering
4th & Final Year of Engineering
Engineering Departments
Architecture
Chemical
Civil
Electrical
Mechanical
Metallurgy
Mining
Textile.
Civil was the earliest Discipline. Mechanical and Electrical Disciplines were offered next. In the mid and late 1950s, five more Disciplines were added.
New Education System
In November 1964, RU was reorganized. Several Faculties became autonomous Institutes.
RIT
The Faculty of Engineering (known also as the Burma Institute of Technology) became Rangoon Institute of Technolgy with U Yone Moe (former Dean of BIT) as Rector and U Soe Thein (former Ta-Ka-Tha Leader) as Registrar.
Three Batches
In November 1964, three batches of students were admitted to RIT.
ILA (Intelligence Level Agregate) was used to admit 400+ Matriculates to the 1st BE. ILA was controversial.
300+ students who had passed the I.Sc.(A) examination were admitted to the 2nd BE.
About 200 students who had passed the I.Sc.(B) examination were admitted to the 3rd BE.
Classes
In the New Education System, the Classes are called
1st BE
2nd BE
3rd BE
4th BE
5th BE
6th & Final BE. BE stands for Bachelor of Engineering.
For Architects, the Classes are called BArch (Bachelor of Architecture).
RIT69ers
Guinea Pigs
The Group is jokingly eferred to the Guinea Pigs of the Education Systems.
Most took the Last ever 7th Standard Government exam in March 1960.
They took the First ever 9th Standard (HSF/ High School Final Only) exam in March 1962. Those from Rangoon had to take the exam with Security Forces patroling the streets after the Coup d’etat on March 2nd by the Revolutionary Council. They had to retake the HSF exam in August 1962 because the Higher Authorities said that there were question leakage.
They took the 10th Standard (Matriculation Only) exam in May 1963.
In sum, they had to take three or four Government exams before being admitted to the University. In contrast, my older brother had to take only two exams : 7th Std. exam in March 1955, and the HSF & Matriculation exam in March 1957.
They took the Last ever I.Sc.(A) exam at various schools, since most classes at Rangoon University, Mandalay University and Intermediate Colleges were suspended (for an unspecified period).
Some classmates (e.g. Maung Maung Kyi (GBNF, SPHS63, 11th in Matric) applied Scholarship to study abroad, since he was the eldest in the family and did not want to burden his parents.
After a long wait, some of my Leik Khone classmates (e.g. Aung Min (M69)) were admitted to 2nd BE in November 1964. There were 300 + students. The admission was based on the I.Sc.(A) exam marks. A few decided to study BArch.
For the 2nd BE, the students had to study English, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Mechanical Drawing, Surveying, Materials and Processes, Sociology & Workshop.
Starting with the 3rd BE, the students had to choose their Discipline. Civil and Mechanical were the top choices with 100+ students. Electrical had 70+ students. Chemical and Textile had 15+ students. Mining, Metallurgy and Architecture had 10 (or so) students.
For 5th BE, EE students had to chose the Option: EP (Electrical Power) and EC (Electrical Communications)
Most 69ers graduated in 1969 after passing 6th BE. Some took sabbatical, and graduated a year or two later.
The 69ers worked mainly in the Government departments and Industry. Some worked for private companies and family business. A few moved abroad.
Some 69ers (e.g. Dave Saluja and Win Maung) left before graduation.
Membership
The members include (a) those who entered 2nd BE in 1964 (b) those who graduated in 1969 (c) those who studied a year or more with the above
The Group is also known as 69ers, the RIT Class of 69 and the Class of RIT 69++ .
Gatherings
The first formal Reunion of the Group occurred in 1999. It also was instrumental for the development of the RIT Alumni Newsletter, the inaugural ex-rit website, and the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000).
30th Anniversaryin 1999
In 1999, Ko Tint Lwin (Daniel), Ko Sein Myint, Ko Sein Win (“Nar Yee”), and several 69ers organized the reunion for the “30th Anniversary of Graduation” and also a mini-SPZP. Ko Tint Lwin e-mailed me a report. Ma Saw Yu Tint (Alice) e-mailed me photos.
Saya U Soe Paing e-mailed me about several mini-gatherings in Yangon (e.g. with Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi).
Ko Tint Lwin (M69) wrote :
Thank you very much for your write-up about our 1999 “30th Anniversary of Graduation”. Actually. it all started in 1996 when I visited Burma and had dinner with a few of my close friends, including, Ko Shwe, Ko Win Mg, Ko Ye Pinn, Gabar Ko Myint Thein, etc. During dinner somebody mentioned that in 3 years time it would be 30 years since we graduated. Out of the blues I suggested to have a reunion in 1999. Everybody laughed as it was so far away. When I came back to Singapore and told Ko Sein Myint and Dickie they also laughed and told me that I must be crazy to think about so far away. However, time flies and in either late 1998 or early 1999 at Ko Win Htein’s funeral wake, some of our friends remembered the reunion proposal. They quickly formed a committee and organised the very first reunion at ‘Sait Taing Kya Restaurant. After the event I wrote you a report, Alice sent you a few photos and the rest is history.
40th Anniversaryin 2009
The Class of 69 organized the “40th Anniversary of the Graduation” in 2009.
Golden Jubilee of Admissionin 2014
The “Golden Jubilee of the admission to 2nd BE” was celebrated in 2014, because the 69ers were concerned with the declining health of members and that some may not be able to make it to the True Golden Jubilee of graduation in 2019.
Golden Jubilee of Graduation in 2019
The Class of 69 celebrated the true Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary of Graduation) in December 2019.
Acariya Pu Zwe Pwe was held at the Assembly Hall on Gyogone Campus.
The Reunion Dinner and Entertainment was held at the former Office Compound of Ko Aung Min.
Ma Tin Tin (Anne, EC69) had a “Home Coming” after her graduation.
Many were unaware that the gathering would be a final one for some (especaially those who would succumb to Covid).
My Contributions
RIT Alumni Newsletter
I started “RIT Alumni (Abroad) Newsletter” to share RIT-related news (such as the mini-gatherings) and solicited contact information (in the form a spread sheet) from interested sayas and alumni.
“RIT” stands not only for Rangoon Institute of Technology, but all the engineering schools that precede or succeed it. RIT is a place holder for the RU Faculty of Engineering, Burma Institute of Technology, Yangon Institute of Technology, Yangon Technological University and various Technological Universities in Myanmar.
The name was changed to “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” to include alumni in Burma and the rest of the world.
A commemorative issue was published for SPZP-2000.
RIT Web Site
Ko Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76) designed and implemented the first RIT web site.
I served as Content Provider and Editor of the web site. I composed the “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” poem. I posted 64 “Countdown to the Reunion” and 36 “Post Reunion”.
Ko Ivan Lee (Khin Maung Oo, M69), Ko Aung Myint (M69, Singapore) and the San Francisco Bay Area Group led by Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF) provided some financial help to operate the web site.
“RIT Alumni International” hosted the First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (SPZP-2000) in October 2000.
SPZP
The term “Saya Pu Zaw Pwe” was chosen over “Saya Ga Daw Pwe” (which has religious connotation) so that alumni professing various faiths can pay respect to their former sayas / mentors.
There has been seven world wide SPZPs: SPZP-2000 in USA, SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007 and SPZP-2010 in Singapore, SPZP-2004, SPZP-2012 and SPZP-2016 in Yangon.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, SPZP-2020 was cancelled.
I have been an Organizer and/or Facilitator for the SPZPs.
My “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” poem was published in the Commemorative Newsletter for SPZP-2000.
Saya U Moe Aung reprinted the poem as the Back Cover of Commemorative Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for SPZP-2002.
My poem “SWE DAW YEIK” was published in the Commemorative Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for SPZP-2007.
My article “A Sad and Short Clip : EE Sayas” was published in the Commemorative Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung for SPZP-2010.
Zau Lai (EP69) wrote :
Thank you, Ko Hla Min, for your writings. If it’s not for you there will be no records and history of RIT. I am reading interestingly all your writings all the time. When we all are gone your writing will live on.
Aung Min (M69) wrote :
So thanks for your recordings. Appreciations.
Food For Thought
Aging, Health and GBNF
At one moment, the Class of 69 had a median age of 69, and the list of GBNF has 69 members.
That symmetry no longer holds. The Class of 69 has a median age of 79, and the list of GBNF has 128!(or so) members. Over 40% have passed away.
In the latter half of 2021, twenty 69ers passed away. 18 were victims of Covid.
Declining Health
The attendees at the mini-gatherings have decreased. Some could not drive, and had to ask their family members to take them to the gatherings. Some had major or minor operations, and need time to recover fully. Some had medical problems for some time (e.g. a year or two).
Retirement
Most are retired or semi-retired. A few did not retire or did not have the chance to retire.
Ko Tin Maung Lay (M69) worked in Europe and Middle East. So he came back to California only on home leave.
His spouse wanted him to retire.
He agreed but his boss requested him to perform a meticulous “hand-over” before retiring.
He had daily work outs and supposedly had no known major health problems.
He passed away in Dubai on a Friday (holiday in the country). His company and colleagues tried extra hard to make sure that his body could be flown back to Southern California, USA.
69er HCF (Health Care Fund)
U Aung Min (M69, Chair), U Shwe (EP69, Secretary) and team are the core volunteers for the 69er HCF. The team sends out monthly, quarterly and annual reports (including Donations, Income, Expenditure, GBNF)
Ivan Lee (U Khin Maung Oo, M69), Daw Myint Myint (C69) and U Sein Myint (K K Wong, EP69) are some of the major donors to HCF.
Most 69ers donate at the 69er Gatherings (e.g. Monthly Breakfast Gathering at Taw Win Hnin Si / Royal Rose Restaurant).
Ko Ivan Lee (M69) wrote :
Dear Classmates,
Recently rather than optimistic good news, we heard spreading pessimistic health concern news mostly. It clearly indicates that we are aging higher and health is going down lower and lower. I can imagine 5 years from now how many will be terribly survived. I am kind of depressed that sooner or later we will be meeting THERE. At this moment all I can express is to wish our classmates who are in sickness to recover ASAP.
Ivan Lee (M69)
Paying Homage to Saya U Ba Than (GBNF)
Saya U Ba Than and U Aung Min
U Tin Maung Soe (Tommy, EP69, GBNF)
Khin Maung Win (EP69, GBNF)
Known fondly as “Sargalay” and “Nutty”
Usually finished Mechanical drawings in about an hour and still get Grade 5.
Later changed his name to “Lada” and “Galon”
Training partner for Sai Kham Pan (EP69, Burma Selected in Badminton)
Badminton selection at the Township level
U Khin Maung Win (RIP)
A69
Aung Khin After working in Botswana, he and Tin Tin Hla (A70) moved to Seattle, Washington, USA to be near their daughters and grand children. He attended the Golden Jubilee on December 14, 2019 in Yangon
Kyaw Kyaw He belonged to an elite group who married before graduation.
Myo Tun (Bobby) Won essay contests as Errol Than Tun. After retirement from PWD, he became Ashin Pannagavesaka. He is an editor of Pa Auk Sayadaw’s books and a dhamma librarian at the Mawlamyine Pa Auk Taw Ya. He went on dhamma dhuta missions (e.g. to Vietnam).
Tobias K. Ku, Saw (Tobi, GBNF) He attends 69er monthly breakfast gatherings. Passed away in 2021.
Thet Htun He moved to Taiwan.
Thwin Thwin Aye Hmi, Daw (Olive) Used to play chinlon with her classmates. Spouse : U Han Zaw. Met both last at the lunch gathering at Crystal Jade in 2012 (preceding SPZP-2012).
Tin Maung Hla (GBNF) Had some medical problems (which hopefully had gone away).
ChE69
Aung Min Oo
Aung San
Aye Aye Kyu, Daw
Ceril Shair (USA) ?
Khan Za Lan
Khin Maung Win
Kyaw Minn (Ei Kun, Singapore)
Kyaw Min (Albert)
Moe Hein (Ajala, Swimming and Water Polo)
Myat Tun
Myint Ko
Myint Myint Aye, Daw
Myo Khin, Dr. (Japan)
Mehm Myo Min
Soe Win
Swe Swe Oo, Daw
Taing Oke, Dr. (Japan)
Yi Yi Khaing, Daw (Vilma, Singapore)
C69
Aung Chaw (Victor, Ashin Okkantha)
Aung Kyaw Nyein (USA)
Aung Myint
Aung Than
Aung Win
Ba Than Chit (Saw Myint Naing)
Han Sein (“Tone Kyaw”, Swimming and Water Polo, GBNF)
Hla Myint
Hla Myint Thein (Patrick Aye)
Htay Aung (Canada)
Htay Myint
Htin Aung, Dr. (Chinlone)
Khin Aung (Taiwan)
Khin Maung
Khin Maung Aye
Khin Maung Myint (Mandalay)
Khin Maung Tint
Khin Maung Win, Dr. (Donald Ba Pe)
Kyaw Min Thein (Kenneth)
Kyaw Naing (Kyaw Thwin)
Kyaw Thein
Kyaw Tint
Li Li Wai, Daw
Maung Kyaw
Myint Aung
Myo Khin, Dr. (Japan)
Myo Nyunt
Myo Win
Myo Chit
Myint Myint, Daw
Nyi Hla Nge
Ngwe Tun (Tun Tun)
Phone Kyaw (Mandalay)
Phor Daw Khan
Sam Nithang (Samuel, USA)
Saw Lwin
San Linn
Saw Yan Naing (GBNF)
Sein Tun
Soe Myint
Soe Tint
Than Htwe
Than Oo
Thaung Htay
Thaung Htwe, Daw
EE l69
Abdul Rauf (GBNF)
Aung Gyi Shwe (Track and Field, Soccer, GBNF)
Aung Kyaw Pe (Singapore, Myanmar)
Aung Than
Aung Thu Yein (GBNF)
Aye Thein (Volleyball)
Ba Oak
Bishnu Shahi (Badminton, Nepal, GBNF)
Chit Tin (GBNF)
Dave Singh Saluja (Thailand)
Hla Min (Rowing, USA)
Hla Paik
Hla Tun
Khin Maung Hassan (Saudi Arabia. USA)
Khin Maung Bo (Alan Saw Maung, GBNF)
Khin Maung Soe
Khin Maung Tint
Khin Maung Nyo (GBNF)
Khin Maung Win Sargalay, GBNF)
Khin Maung Win (Roland)
Krishnan Lal (Australia)
Kyaw Sein (Ashley Woo, Kyaukme)
Kyaw Sein (Singapore)
Kyaw Soe (GBNF)
Kyaw Win
Kyaw Zin (visiting Australia)
Kyi Shwin
Kyi Win (Kyaw Gyi)
Kyin Hwet
Maung Toung (Tom, USA)
Maung Kaung
Maung Ko
Maung Maung (Volleyball, EE69er HCF)
Maung Shwe (69er HCF, EE69er HCF)
Mehm Paw Oo (GBNF)
Mehm Aung Tin
Min Aung (Hla Thaung)
Min Lwin
Min Thaw (Gilbert, GBNF)
Myat Soe Lwin (Sai Hwet)
Myint Maung (Bu, Volleyball)
Myo Aung (GBNF)
Myo Hein (GBNF)
Oo Kyaw Hla (Canada, GBNF)
Sai Aik Yee (GBNF)
Sai Kham Pan
Sai Kyaw Aye
Saw Aung
Saw Edison
Saw Lwoi Lwin Thaw (?)
Sein Myint (K K Wong)
Soe Myint
Soe Myint Thein (GBNF)
Soe Thein (Peter)
Tan Chaung Yin (USA)
Thar Kyaw
Than Hla (Cyril)
Than Htay
Than Lwin (Henry)
Than Myint
Thein Swe (GBNF)
Thein Tun (Michael)
Thet Lwin
Tin Maung Soe (Tommy, GBNF)
Tin Oo
Tin Shwe
Tin Tin, Daw (Anne, USA)
Tun Aung Gyaw, Dr. (USA)
Victor Lwin
Win Boh (Robert, Australia)
Win Maung (Lake)
Ye Win, Mehm
Yi Tun
Zau Lai, Duwa
M69
Aye Lwin (GBNF) Secretary of RIT Mechanical Engineering Association Editor of RIT Annual Magazine Attended RIT Alumni Gathering in Los Angeles in 2015
Aung Myint Joined Faculty after graduation Taught at Singapore Poly Lives in New Zealand and Singapore Hobbies : Painting, Motivational Messages
Mehm Aye Chan (Ohn Maung) Joined Faculty after graduation Worked at sea before founding his own company
Htay Aung Outstanding swimmer. Won 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m, 1500m and Cross-lake. Burma selected in water polo for 1969 SEAP Games Spouse : Than Than (Burma Champion sprinter)
Khin Maung Aye Joined Defense Industries Pen name : Maung Hmut
Khin Maung Tin Joined Faculty after graduation Taught at RIT and Marine Engineering Institute
Khin Maung Oo (Ivan Lee) Post graduate studies in USA Professional Engineer for New York and New Jersey Golden Sponsor of SPZP-2000 Major donor to 69er Health Care Fun Host for RIT-UCC Gathering in New Jersey for more than a decade
Tint Lwin (Daniel) Grad studies in Canada Retired Associate Professor from NTU Guitarist / Vocalist
Aung Naing (Bahadhur, GBNF)
Chit Pe (GBNF)
Chit Po Po (GBNF)
Dicky (Win Naing, GBNF)
Khin Maung Gyi (GBNF)
Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF)
Myint Sein (Badminton, HCF, GBNF)
Myint Thein (David)
Myint Thein (Kabar, GBNF)
Ngwe Soe (Walter)
Sein Win (GBNF)
Soe Win (GBNF)
Than Myaing
Than Win
Tin Aung (GBNF)
Tin Aung Win (Oscar)
Tin Htut (Seafarer)
Tin Htut (Harry)
Tin Maung Aye (Accordion)
Tin Myint (John Lee, GBNF)
Yin Kyu (GBNF)
Met69
Myint Kyi
Maung Tun (GBNF)
Ohn Kyaw
Sai Aung Win (Mandalay)
Sai Kyaw Myint
Tin Aung
Min69
Aung Win
Chit Htun (GBNF)
Khin Kyaw Nyein (GBNF)
Kyaw Tint (GBNF)
Khin Maung Gyi
Mya Win
Tin Maung (oldest)
Tin Win (Hosted the lunch gathering at Crystal Jade in 2012)
Win Thein Zaw (Wai Lu)
Pet69
Aung Myint (Kyant Ba Hone, GBNF)
Kyaw Din
Kyaw Than (Magwe)
Kyaw Myint
Myint Maung
Myint Swe
Paw Mya
T69
Aung Thein (USA)
Aye Aye Kyi, Daw
Cho Cho, Daw
Hla Shwe (GBNF)
Hla Thaung
Hla Tun (Japangyi, GBNF)
Jimmy Kyin (GBNF)
Kyaw Min (Mandalay)
Kyi San (Win Maung, Mandalay)
Lyo Kyin Sein, Daw (Mabel Lee, USA)
Lin Lin Aung, Daw (Singapore)
Myo Myint Thein
Nan Su Su, Daw (GBNF)
Naw Mu Mu Aye, Daw
Nyunt Nyunt Wai, Daw (Millie Hoe, Germany)
San Kyi, Daw (USA?)
San San Myint, Daw (Helen Wu, USA)
Saw Yu Tint, Daw (Alice)
Sein Sein Maw
Than Win
Thet Myint
Tin Tun Aung
Tint Swe (Zeegone)
Recollections of a 69er
I wrote an article for the Commemorative Issue of Swel Daw Yeik Magazine in 2014 for RIT Shwe YaDu (Golden Jubilee of the then New Education System).
Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) served as the Chief Editor.
Article 1Article 2Article 3
1969 Calendar
Published for the Universities and Institutes
1969 Calendar
Some Memories
Alice visiting the San Francisco Bay Area
Alice visited her son and family in the San Francisco Bay Area
She took time off to attend the Literary Talks by Min Ko Naing and Aw Pe Kye
With Alice
69ers at a gathering hosted by Ivan Lee (New Jersey)
Ivan has hosted annual gatherings at his house for RIT and UCC Alumni.
The timing is chosen to conincide with the visits of Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya U Soe Paing to the area.
Fred (Pennsylvannia), TAG (Massachussetts), HM (California), Alice (Myanmar), Tom (Connecticut) and Ivan (New Jersey) had a mini-gathering.
Ivan is co-founder and Patron of MASTAA (based in New York). MASTAA has broadcast interviews with Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi, Saya U Soe Paing and Saya Dr. San Hla Aung. MASTSAA members and friends donated for COVID-19 relief (prevention and treatment) in USA and Myanmar.
Ivan is a major donor to the 69er HCF (Health Care Fund) along with Daw Myint Myint and U Sein Myint.
In New Jersey
Monthly Breakfast Gathering at Taw Win Hnin Si
Before the pandemic, 69ers had monthly breakfast gathering at Taw Win Hnin Si (Royal Rose Restaurant).
At Taw Win Hnin SiMyo Nyunt, Ngwe Soe (Walter), Tin Aung Win (Oscar), Uzin Myo Tun (Bobby), Mehm Aye Chan (Ohn Maung), Soe Thein (Peter), Albert Kyaw Min
Annual Dinner at M3
For several years, the Annual Dinner and Entertainment was held at M3.
Albert and Danny are two regular performers (guitar and vocal).
Best Friends Forever 1Best Friends Forever 2
Danny’s visit to San Francisco
Ko Tin Myint (John Lee) showed Danny around the SF Bay Area.
Saya Allen Htay and Daw Mu Mu Kin hosted a dinner for Danny at a restaurant in Castro.
Ko Tin Myint (John Lee) and Ko Tint Lwin (Daniel)
Speaking at John Lee’s Memorial Service
Ko Tin Myint (John Lee) passed away.
His daughter (a medical doctor) requested me to share my memories.
Ko Tin Myint’s Service
Maung Maung Kaung (Yi Pinn) in Dawei
Yi Pinn is busy with his projects in Dawei.
Some time back, his spouse passed away in Yangon. He rushed to Yangon, but had to self-Q. He could not be present at his spouse’s last journey.
He later succumbed to Covid.
Yi Pinn
Donation by Daw Myint Myint
Daw Myint Myint is a major donor to the 69er HCF.
She also hosted or sponsored lunch and dinner gatherings. e.g. Welcome Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie) at Westin Park Hotel
She donated twice for YTU Library Modernization Project. e.g. K100 Lakhs once
Daw Myint Myint’s donation receiptDaw Myint Myint and Nan Khin Nwe
AGTI (Associate of Government Technical Institute)
Graduated from RIT with Mechanical Engineering in 1983
Received MS from CSU (California State University)
Work Experience
Founder/President, Mechanical Solutions
Founder/President, iNapa Winery
Gatherings at iNapa Winery
With RIT Alumni
With RIT Alumni
With David Ko (U Tin Myint, M67, GBNF)
With David Ko (U Tin Myint, M67, Golden Sponsor of SPZP-2000)
Welcoming Dr. Aung Gyi & Metallurgical Engineering Sayas who had attended 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles
Saya Dr. Aung Gyi and Daw EmmaWith Saya Dr. Aung Gyi, visiting Metallurgical Engineers and RIT Alumni
Welcoming Saya U Tin Myint (M80)
Welcoming Saya U Tin Myint (M80)
Quick Tour & Long Tour
Donated iNapa Wine for selected events (e.g 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles)
Alumni Organizations
Youngest of the Founding members of RIT Alumni International
RIT Alimni International
Organizer, SPZP-2000
SPZP-2000
Founding member and Past President of Norcal RITAA
NorCal 1NorCal 2NorCal 3
Family members
Father : U Kaung (GBNF) was Head of Mechanical Engineering Department at Insein GTI.
Spouse : Lillian Kaung (EC83)
Two sons
U Ko Ko Zin (AGTI, M84) is the spouse of Thida Kaung (Gordon’s younger sister). He is a founding member, Past Treasurer & VP of Norcal RITAA. He organized the visit to Asian Heritage Museum (where he is Chief Engineer).
Ko Ko Zin & Thida Kaung
Fire
iNapa Winery was lucky to escape the great Fire with slight damage. Gordon and Lillian had to spend three weeks in a hotel before they can return to their home.
iNapa Winery was not so lucky the next time. There was some damage, but with the help of alumni and friends, recovery was smooth.
The first RIT Alumni Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe was held in San Francisco, California in October 2000.
Ko Thaung Sein / Steeve Kay (EC70) and Ko Yu Beng / Benny Tan (M70) were Golden Sponsors. Steeve donated $3000. Benny not only donated $1000, but designed mementos — SPZP Tee Shirt, SPZP Mug, SPZP Calculator & Clock — and presented them to the sayas, sayamas, SPZP organizers and volunteers. The mementos were also sold at SPZP-2000.
Since only a few sayas from Rangoon could attend SPZP-2000, Steeve and Benny decided to host Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe at Narawat Hotel (managed by Victor Kyaw Phyo / Kyaw Phone Myint) in 2001. Some mementos from SPZP-2000 were given to the sayas and sayamas.
The following are some photos from the Acariya Pu Zaw Pwe & Reunion of 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65.
Has the largest number of alumni. Many worked in Myanmar. Some worked overseas, but returned to Myanmar after retirement.
During the Adhamma Era, there was no Alumni Association in Myanmar. The Alumni in the US & Singapore set up Alumni Associations and hosted Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwes in 2000 (USA) & 2002 (Singapore).
Yangon hosted SPZP-2004 in December 2004 as a piggy-back to the ASEAN Engineering Conference. The mild earth quake did not deter the attendees.
There were hopes that Yangon could continue to hold SPZP in 2006 and beyond. The change in the political climate in Myanmar dashed the hopes. Singapore Alumni hosted SPZPs in April 2007 & December 2010. The two year interval between the SPZPs went up to two and a half years.
U Aye Myint (EP72) never forgot his roots and his alma mater. Requested help from the sayas and alumni to help our beloved alma mater to former glory. Initiated the process to have engineering classes reopen at the Gyogone Campus and also to make a true Home Coming for the attendees of SPZP-2012. There were tears of joy from the alumni. The Garawa ceremony was held at the Gyogone Campus. The Reunion Dinner and Entertainment Program was held at MICT Park.
SPZP-2012
Around SPZP-2012, Sayagyi U Aung Khin and Sayagyi U Ba Than served as Patrons of the newly formed Mechanical Engineers Association.
All Mech Gathering
Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) and team had discussions before, during and after SPZP-2012 to form Swel Daw Yeik Foundation with the objective of helping eligible sayas. SDYF was established in 2013.
SDYF
Shwe YaDu celebrations were held in 2014 with the planting of 50 Swel Daw Bins. Shwe YaDu benches were donated by alumni in Myanmar and overseas.
Shwe YaDu
RITAA helped host SPZP-2016. It was an All-Day Event at the Gyogone Campus. There was free food (for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) and entertainment.
SPZP-2016
In early 2016, the bye-laws of RITAA (RIT-YIT-YTU Alumni Association) were developed and approved by core volunteers. The Association was registered. A Working Committee with U Tin Latt as President was formed to help short term projects. Annual Membership costs K12000. Life Membership costs K60000.
Fund raising was led by U Wynn Htain Oo and Daw Nan Khin Nwe.
RITAA
In 2018, the first Annual General Meeting of RITAA elected Executive Committee members for the 2018 – 2020 term with U Myo Aye as President. He succeeded U Tin Latt, who served as Interim President before the AGM was called.
RITAA is a true Alumni Association. Although sayas and alums served as President and Executive Committee members in Myanmar Engineering Society (MES), MES is not an Alumni Association. MES is not even an NGO. It is simply an NPO.
Singapore
Has the largest alums outside of Myanmar. The RIT Alumni in Singapore helped organize three SPZPs in December 2002, April 2007, and December 2010.
SPZP-2002
Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War, EE63) chaired SPZP-2002 and SPZP-2010. He and his team published the commemorative issues of “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007, and SPZP-2010. After retirement, Saya moved back to Myanmar. He is Patron of SDYF & RITAA.
U Nyan Win Shwe (William, M72) chaired SPZP-2007.
Organizers for the SPZPs include Saya Dr. Tin Hlaing (M63), Saya U Tin Hlaing (ChE65, GBNF), U Tint Lwin (Daniel, M69), Sayama Daw Tin Tin Myint (ChE70), Saya U Aung (C70), Saya U Tin Lin (ChE72), Saya Dr. Soe Thein (C75), U Moe Myint (M76), and Ko Maung Aunt (M).
The Singapore Alumni lent helping hand for the SPZPs in Yangon. Ko Zaw Tun Naing (Aero95) was the point of contact in Singapore for SPZP-2012.
There used to be Civil and Electrical Engineering web sites for the Singapore RIT Alumni.
Dr. Soe Thein volunteered as Web Master for the SPZP-2007 web site and the Singapore Civil web site. He moved back to Myanmar.
Thailand
There is no Alumni Association in Thailand.
Several sayas including U Ba Toke and U Khin Aung Kyi taught in Thailand. Dr. Win Tin served as Associate Dean at Assumption University. U Sein Maung (EE63), U Tin Shwe (EP66, GBNF) and many others taught at Assumption University & Rengsit University.
Some alumni such as U Win Hlaing (C68) also taught in Thailand.
Saya U Aung Myaing (ChE72) & Daw Gyn Yu (ChE72) hosted micro-gatherings for the sayas and alumni visiting Bangkok especially for medical check up and treatment.
Ko Aung Myaing, Ma Gyn Yu, Bagyee Myat Myo Myint
Australia
There is no formal RIT Alumni Association in Australia.
The alumni participate in Myanmar Engineering Association of Australia (MEAA). U Thet Tun (M75) and U Sein Win (C80) are Past Presidents of MEAA.
Sydney 2006
The alumni in Sydney used to have a picnic and a dinner every year.
Sayas in Australia
U Thit (Met, GBNF)
U Myo Win (M, GBNF)
U Hla Myint (Charlie, M)
U Maung Maung Win (M)
Daw Yin Yin Mya (English)
Alumni in Australia
Win Boh (Robert, EC69)
Surinder Singh (EP)
Htay Aung (Victor, EC80)
Sein Tin (Johnny, EC75)
Sai Aung Thurein (EC74, GBNF) and Khin Swe Oo (EP74)
Phyu Phyu Latt (Christine, A70) and Aye Win Hlaing (La La, Abel, EP)
Sein Win (C80) and spouse
Thet Tun (Henry, M75)
Htun Aung Kyaw (EC73)
Tha Hlaing (EC83)
George Peters (C73)
Tin Aung Win & Dorothy Kyaw Tun
Wint Khin Zaw (A79)
New Zealand
Saya Dr. Koung Nyunt (A67, GBNF), Stanley Saw (Myo Lwin, M71), & Dennis Mackey (Kyaw Thu, C73, now in Canada) used to report RIT Alumni Activities in New Zealand.
Kogyi Koung
Saya U Aung Myint (M69) lives in Singapore & New Zealand.
Patrick Saw & his spouse are alumni.
Japan
Taing Oke
U Thein Ngwe (Ko Thein Tokyo, ChE76) founded RITAJ (RIT Alumni in Japan). He was helped by U Win Myint (EC83) for some time. He mentioned that there are younger alumni in Japan, but they are not active in RITAJ.
Saya Dr. Taing Oke (ChE69) is still teaching in Japan.
After retirement, Saya Dr. Myo Khin (C70) consulted three Japanese companies. He traveled several times to Myanmar on business trip. He helped find jobs for young engineers. He is undergoing rehab to treat Stroke. Spouse : Daw Winsome (Mya Nwe, C73)
U Win Myint (EC83)
Myo KhinWinsome & Myo Khin
Canada
U Tha Aung & Daw Kinsa Maw Naing organized alumni gatherings in Canada. They later worked on projects in Myanmar.
Sayas in Canada
Dr. Aung Gyi (Rector)
Dr. Aung Gyi
U Aung Khin (M)
U Aung Khin
U Kyaw Myint (T)
Des Rodgers (English)
U Ko Ko Kyi (EC72)
Alumni in Canada
U Kyaw Thu (Dennis Mackey, C73)
U Htay Aung (C69)
U Htein Win (Chauk Pay, M70, RIT swimming, water polo & rowing)
U Aung Lwin (Jasper Wu, C70, RIT rowing)
U Aung Myint Thwin (C76, GBNF)
U Tha Aung (M79)
Daw Kinsa Maw-Naing (ChE79)
U Zaw Oo (M)
UK
U Nyi Nyi (EE63, Saya, GBNF)
U Myint Khine (Norman, C63)
Daw Tin Tin Win (Yvonne)
Daw Khin May Than (ChE72)
Khin May Than
Dr. Aung Shein (C72, Saya)
U Nyunt Aung (C73)
Daw Sandar Bo (C73)
Daw Aye Aye Than (Pauk Pauk)
Daw Saw Yu Tint (Alice) often visits UK to see her daughter and grandchild.
Taiwan
Saya U Khin (Lucien Chen, RIT English)
Saya Dr. Nyo Win (K H Chen, M65) worked in the USA and Taiwan. He travels regularly to Taiwan.
Two siblings of Roland Chen (U Kyi Aung, ChE73, USA) are in Taiwan. The three siblings donated Shwe YaDu benches.
Benedict Sia (U Myat Swe, M75) — Donated K2 Lakhs for YTU Library Modernization project. Life member of ARITA.
Benedict
USA
RIT Alumni International
SF Bay Area Alumni
Alumni in the USA formed “RIT Alumni International” with the main objective of hosting SPZP-2000.
SPZP-2000
Founder/members include
Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF)
Saya U San Tun (M59)
Saya K C Chiu (ChE63)
U Myint Lwin (Henry, C63, GBNF)
Saya U Nyo Win (M65)
Saya U Maung Maung (George, ChE66)
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68)
U Hla Min (EC69)
Benny Tan (M70)
Saya U Thein Aung (James, Met 72)
Maurice Chee (M75)
U Khin Maung Zaw (KMZ, EC76)
Gordon Kaung (M83)
But, it was dormant for some time.
NorCal RITAA
Northern California RIT Alumni Association was formed over a decade ago
Saya U Maung Maung (George, ChE66) served as President. Successors : Gordon Kaung (M83), U Aung Myint Oo (EC84) and U Tin Maung Win (C76).
Stan Liou(M67)served as Chair of the Board of Directors (BOD). Succesor : Saya U Myat Htoo.
Alumniin Northern California
Some may have relocated.
There are varying degrees of activity.
Some were active as members of EC (Executive Committee) and BOD (Board of Directors), but then they decided to take a break.
Some donated money, but due to schedule conflicts, they might not make it to the AGM (Annual General Meeting), Dinner, Picnic and ah hoc gatherings (e.g. welcoming visiting sayas and alumni).
Some might have dropped in once or twice out of curiosity or because of “Ah Nar Dei” attitude.
Alex Khoo (Aung Kyaw, C80) : Younger brother of Henry Khoo (EC67). Attends most gatherings and also provide food dana.
Alfred Yaung (Sein Yaung, M67) : Attends some gatherings. Make donations to NorCal RITAA. He felt sad when his beloved spouse Daw Pa Pa — sister of U Nyunt Tin (M70) — passed away. U Nyunt Tin introduced him to a Dhamma friend. They ended up being soul mates & partners in Vipassana Meditation.
Aik Kyu (Steven Wang) : Attended some gatherings, but does have time to commit to be an EC or BOD. Invited NorCal RITAA members to meet his mother, who was visiting her children. He & his siblings donated a Dhamma Room at Mudita Shwe Kyaung in memory of their parents.
* Saya Allen Htay (C58, GBNF) is a founding member & President of RIT Alumni International. I have written several posts about his life & legacy. His article, “Brother, can you spare US $500?” is a classic for SPZP-2000. In Saya’s memory, Daw Mu Mu Kin donated Saya’s books to YTU Library. She also provided Scholarships for eligible YTU students.
Saya Allen Htay (GBNF)
Anthony Ng (Aye Tun, M76) : Top fund raiser for several social & religious organizations in the SF Bay Area. Jokingly said that he had to buy a lot of raffle & dinner tickets from other organizations. Took part in the monthly luncheon for the Retirees in the Bay Area.
Audrey Wong (Yi Yi Khaing, C84) : Volunteered her culinary expertise for the Picnic (second day optional event) at SPZP-2000. Donated $300 per year to NorCal RITAA for the past two years. Organizer for the retreats at Norfolk, California
Aung Htet Naing (Aaron) : Inactive
Aung Kyin : Inactive.
Aung Myint Oo (EC84) : President of NorCal RITAA.
Aung Zaw Maung (Pet78) : was EC & BOD of Theravada Buddhist Society of America (TBSA). Was Editor of Dhammananda Newsletter and Web Master of TBSA web site.
Aye Aye Myint : cousin of Audrey. Attends some gatherings. Her daughter won scholarship provided by NorCal RITAA.
* Benny Tan (Yu Beng, M70) : Founding member of RIT Alumni International. Hosted several meetings at his house. Chaired Working Committee of SPZP-2000. Designed Banner. Negotiated with Embassy Suites for the gathering and his suppliers for the mementos (Mug, Calendar/Clock, Tee shirt). Multiple Golden Sponsor for the SPZPs. Major donor for the activities of the Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65. Past President of BAPS. Now taking a break to have quality time with his six grand children. Took part in the monthly luncheon for the Retirees in the Bay Area.
Benny (Right)
Bony (C02) : Joint Secretary, NorCal RITAA
Charlie Tseng (EC70) & spouse Diana Tseng (ChE71) : Attended gatherings. Took part in the monthly luncheon for the Retirees in the Bay Area.
Darren Lee (M62, GBNF) : passed away on December 21, 2108. Attended 2018 Summer Picnic hosted by NorCal RITAA.
David Ko (Tin Myint, M67, GBNF) : was Golden Sponsor for SPZP-2000. Donated $3000 for SPZP-2012. Hosted a table at 2015 NorCal RITAA Dinner to invite sayas & guests from Southern California. Donated to selected monasteries in the SF Bay Area. Employed several Burmese for his company (which he has sold).
Dennis Chee (Thein Tun Aung, EP75) : EC member of NorCal RITAA. Visited Yangon and gave talks on “Traffic Signals and Control”.
Dennis S. Lin (San Naing, M83) : Some gatherings were held at “Burma Kitchen” run by Dennis and his spouse.
Diana Tseng (ChE71) :,She and Charlie ordered two Birthday Cakes for me at the Soon Kway Gathering at Dhammananda Vihara (Half Moon Bay, California) in August 2016 hosted by Maurice Chee.
Edward Saw (Yu Ket, EC85) : Treasurer / Auditor of NorCal RITAA. Runs the MailChimp to inform alumni in the SF Bay Area. Gave me rides (e.g to Southern California to attend the BASES Dinner, a Kathein and a Literary Talk).
George Chan (Maung Maung, ChE66)
* George Chan (Maung Maung, ChE66) : Founding member of RIT Alumni International. Founder & Past President of NorCal RITAA. Provided $500 as seed money for the “Training Component” of the YTU Library Modernization Project. He is classmate & brother-in-law of Saya U Myat Thwin.
Gordon Kaung (M83)
* Gordon Kaung (Kaung Kaung Oo, M83) : Youngest founding members of RIT Alumni International. Founded Mechanical Solutions. He & spouse Lillian (EC83) founded iNapa Winery. Hosted several gatherings at their winery. Provided tour to visiting sayas (including Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi, U Tin Myint, U Win Kyaw, U Nyunt Htay). Completed two terms as President of NorCal RITAA, but stayed on as BOD. During the Napa wild fires in 2017, they had to move out for three weeks. Luckily, there was no damage. They had another scare in 2019. There were some damages.
Han Win Chou : Inactive
Hein Hein : Inactive
Henry Chee (Myint Lwin, C63, GBNF) : good vocalist. Had to take care of his spouse and son who had medical problems.
Hin Lok Kung (Win Myint, RIT Table Tennis) and his team mates “Sin Gyi”, Stan Liou & Myat Lwin won the Inter-Institute Championship. Their coach was Saya Mao Toon Siong, former National Champion for Singles and Doubles.
Hla Kyi (C) : founding member of a non-profit to provide health care in Myanmar.
Hla Kyi (EC77) : EC member for NorCal RITAA. Volunteered to distribute fruits from his neighbors.
Hla Min
* Hla Min (EC69) : Jack of all trades and Master of some. Founding member of RIT Alumni International & NorCal RITAA. Chief Editor of RIT Alumni International Newsletter for 26 years. Has a website hlamin.com
Hla Tin : He & his spouse were active in the first term of NorCal RITAA.
*!James Wu (Thein Aung, Met72, Mr. RIT68) : co-emcee of SPZP-2000. Associate Editor for the commemorative issue of “RIT Alumni International Newsletter” for SPZP-2000.
Joe Chow (Thein Zaw, Ah Yoke, EC68, GBNF) : Good vocalist & dancer. Spouse is a niece of U San Tun. He is a cousin of U Num Kok’s spouse.
John T Lee (Tin Myint, M69, RIT Table Tennis, GBNF) : His friends call him “Tan Choy”. Luyechun in 4th BE.
John Yeo (Aung Thein, M71, GBNF) : attended the lunch gathering for Retirees. Cancer survivor.
* K C Chiu (Dr. Tin Aung, ChE63, moved to Southern California) : Past President of BEA, which merged with BASTS into BAPS.
Kenneth Kay : Took videos of some Gatherings
Khin Hnin Yee : attended some gatherings, but was not active in the Alumni organizations.
Khong Him Chan (Win Maung, T70) : attended some gatherings, but was not active in the Alumni organizations.
* Kim Hong Chen (Dr. Nyo Win, M65) : founding member of RIT Alumni International & NorCal RITAA. Organizer for SPZP-2000. BOD of NorCal RITAA
Ko Ko Zin (M84) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Treasurer of NorCal RITAA for two terms. Now Auditor. Spouse : Thida Kaung (sister of Gordon)
Kyaw Myint (M83) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. He was Auditor of NorCal RITAA.
Kyaw Paw Oo : Younger brother of U Kyaw Teza (Terrence). He is inactive.
Kyaw Than (Maung Maung, EC85) : Inactive
Kyaw Win : Inactive
Kyi Kong Tham (U Kyi, C63) : attended some gatherings.
Kyi Shane (M83) : volunteered for selected monasteries in the Bay Area. Attended & helped most Nar Yay.
Kyu Kyu Lin (T75, Bawlone, Volleyball) : donated to NorCal RITAA.
Leigh K Lin (Wah Wah, EC83) : spouse of Dennis. They own “Burma Kitchen”.
Lilian Kaung (EC83) : spouse of Gordon. They own iNapa Winery. She is also an IT Professional.
Linda Shieh (Yee Yee) : an agent for an Insurance & Financial Company. She donated to NorCal RITAA.
Mabel Lee (Lyo Kyin Sein, T69, Basketball) : spouse of John T Lee (GBNF). They attended some gatherings.
Mao Toon Siong (M62, Burma Table Tennis Champion and Coach) : competed in the World Championship for Table Tennis in Peking.
* Maurice Chee (Hla Myint Thein, M75) : founding member of RIT Alumni International & NorCal RITAA. Co-chair of the Working Committee for SPZP-2000. Financial Controller, Logistics Manager & Publisher of the commemorative issue of RIT Alumni International Newsletter for SPZP-2000. Past President of BAPS. Treasurer of RIT Alumni International. Past Vice President of NorCal RITAA. Organizer of monthly lunch gathering for Retirees in the Bay Area. He occasionally provided Dan Bauk (Chicken or Beef) to the Retirees.
Maung Maung Shwe : Inactive
Maung Yit (Maung Maung Win, Moe Ma Ka, EC93) : helped with the FB and web site.
May Than Htay (ChE92) : spouse of Maung Yit. They donated $1500 for the YTU Scholarship offered by NorCal RITAA.
Moon Lee : Inactive
* Myat Htoo (C68) : founding member of RIT Alumni International & NorCal RITAA. Co-emcee for SPZP-2000. Chair of BOD at NorCal RITAA. Past President of TBSA, where he served for a decade. Past President of BADA. Played ukelele and sang his parody “Lost Neik Ban (RIT version)”.
Myint Myint Thein (C74) : volunteered at several monasteries in the Bay Area and beyond. Leader of the Chanting Group. Donated to her class.
Myint Myint Yee (ChE73) : volunteered at several monasteries in the Bay Area. Spouse : U Tun Shwe. They donate food at selected events. They moved to Virginia.
Myint Soe (M79) : attended gatherings; donated to NorCal RITAA.
Myint Swe (EP74) : Secretary of NorCal RITAA for two terms. Current Vice President. He and spouse San San donated to the YTU Scholarship Fund of NorCal RITAA.
Myint Thein (Ba Thein Atlanta, M73) : His writings are fun to read.
Myint Wai (Met74) : was active in American Burmese Cab Drivers Association. Has relocated.
Ni Ni Sein (EC83) : donated $1000 for the Scholarship Fund.
Nilar Myint : Inactive
Nyunt Than (M86) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Past Associate Secretary. Past President of BADA.
Patrick Chin (Patrick Fong, C70) : attended some gatherings (e.g. welcoming Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi). Younger brother of Henry (U Nyan Shein), who was a Patron for TDS.
Patrick Ho (EE72) : brother of Diana.
Philip Thwin (Mya Thwin, EP75) : attended some gatherings.
Pyone Wynn : Inactive
Raymond Shia : Inactive
Robert Thein (M72) : Past President of Kusalakari Association. Visited YTU and donated some equipment.
Roland Chen (Kyi Aung, ChE73) : Provided class photos to the RIT web site. Donated to NorCal RITAA
Ronald K Lwee (Lin Kyi, C74) : Inactive
Saya U San Tun
Sain Fone Wong (San Tun, M59) : Head of Automobile Engineering (sub-department of Mechanical). Worked for Bectel Corporation until he retired. Past President of BEA. Close to Saya U Aung Khin. They traveled to China at the time when Saya U Kyaw Myint was working for UN.
San Lin (Maung Lu Pay, M87) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Auditor. Blogger.
San San Swe (EC74) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Displays her culinary expertise at the gatherings (especially Face-to-face meetings at their home).
Sandy Ma (C80) : Inactive
Shark Moon Lam (C67, GBNF) : attended some gatherings. He rowed for RIT.
Shin Hwa Ho (Hla Kyaing, M69, RIT Swimming & Water Polo). Met him at the welcome lunch for Dicky Tan (Win Naing, GBNF)
Stan Liou (M67, RIT Table Tennis) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Past Chair of BOD. Active with his other Alumni Association. He, Ko Win Myint, “Sin Gyi” and Myat Lwin (GBNF) won the Inter-Institute Championship. Saya Mao Toon Siong, Burma Selected & National Coach, managed the RIT team.
Susan Tan Luo : Inactive
Win Myint, Stan & Hla Min
Than Shwe : Inactive
Than Soe (M63) : RUBC Gold; Elder brother of Saya Dr. Koung Nyunt (A67, GBNF)
Thein Shwe : Inactive
Thanda Aye : helped the Fund raising team. Now busy with work and child.
Thaung Nyunt (M86) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Past Secretary & VP.
Thin Thin Naing : Inactive
Tin Kyaw : attended some gatherings.
U Tin Maung Nyunt
Tin Maung Nyunt (M60) : donated $500 for “Training Component” of the YTU Library Modernization Project.
Tin Shwe (C) : Inactive
Tint Lwin Oo : Inactive
Trixie Tan : Met her at the Soon Kyway by Ko Aung Myaing & Ma Gyn Yu
Tun Shwe (ChE72) : Volunteer for selected monasteries in the Bay Area. He & spouse Myint Myint Yee were food donors. Excellent videographer. Moved to Virginia.
Tun Shwe (Standing Rightmost)
Victor Win (Ne Win Myint, ChE66, GBNF) : Past President of BADA. Member of Complete Count Committee at 2010 US Census.
Victor (C), George (R)
Walter Tan (M70) : founding member of NorCal RITAA. Past BOD.
Walter Thein-yu Tham : Inactive
William Hsiao : Inactive
Willy Chow (Wai Lin) : Inactive
Win Htut : I met him last at the SF Bay Area Talk. Took picture together with Aw Pi Kye.
Yo Shu (Yee Yee Win, EC74) : classmate of Myint Swe & San San Swe. Attended some gatherings & made donations.
Zaw Lwin (Andrew, M87) : EC member in TDS. Classmate of Eng Shwe & San Lin. They have gatherings to welcome their classmates visiting the SF Bay Area.
Zaw Min (EP70, moved to Nevada) : Wrote a long article covering 1st BE to Final Year. The missing pieces were filled by Ohn Khine.
BAPS, BASES, East Coast Gathering, NJ Reunions
Some alumni participate in BAPS (in Northern California) and BASES (in Southern California).
Saya Dr. Nyo Win, Benny Tan and Maurice Chee are Past Presidents of BAPS.
Saya U Tin Htut and U Tin Htway are co-founders & Past Presidents of BASES. U Tun Aung (Jeffrey), Saya Dr. Chris Lee (L. Tin Tun), Saya Dr. Tin Win, U Khin Maung Lay (Henry) U Thura Thant Zin and U Tin Nwe (Milton) are Past Presidents.
Los Angeles hosted the 2015 Alumni Gathering. Steeve Kay (EC70, Chair of KFF) was the matching sponsor for US $30,000. Saya Dr. Tin Win, Saya U Tin Htut, U Khin Maung Lay and U Thura Thant Zin were core Organizers. U Htaik San (Henry) helped with interviews.
Two mini-gatherings (one in DC area, and another near Niagara Falls) were held for the RIT Alums in East Coast.
Ivan Lee (Khin Maung Oo) has hosted RIT-UCC gatherings for several years. The last gathering was on June 30, 2018. Ivan co-founded MASTAA,
Other Countries
Some alumni are known to have worked or resided in other countries :
Botswana : Aung Khin (A69) & Tin Tin Hla (A70) worked there. They moved to Seattle.
Brunei : Ye Lin Oo
Cambodia : Chit Po Po’s spouse (Dr. Daisy Saw) worked there
China : Saya U Kyaw Myint (M/Auto)
Germany : Nyunt Nyunt Wai, Phyo
Iran : Oscar Sharazee & Aye Win Hlaing worked there
Jamaica
Kuwait : Saya U Soe Paing was UN Advisor
Malaysia : Dr. Kyaw Sein, Dr. Khin Maung Win, U Ko Ko Kyi
Qatar : Tin Maung Lay
Russia : Phyo, Tin Maung Lay
Saudi Arabia : Khin Maung (Hasan)
Updates
Sayagyis
U Aung Khin, Dr. Aung Gyi, U Myo Myint Sein are some Sayagyis who are 90+ years young.
GBNF
Several sayas and alumni are GBNF.
Ko Aung Min (M69) & team maintain the GBNF list for 69ers
Ko Ohn Khine (M70) & team maintain the GBNF list for 1st BE Intake of 64
Occasionally receive Sad News / Obituary.
Due to Privacy concerns, we may not receive Sad News in a timely fashion. In some cases, we receive Confirmation after a few months.
Residency
Some sayas and alumni may have relocated (especially after retirement).
HlaMin 