Thank you [HM
and KMZ] for all the updates. I enjoy reading them and can feel the
excitement and enthusiasm of the participants and the organizers. I wish
I could be there for the REUNION and visit my old haunts in the Bay
Area.
The least I can do is to contribute something about the Sayas who will be attending the SPZP-2000 Reunion. I would like to say something about Saya U Ba Toke and my friend Sayas Allen Htay and Ko Tin Maung Nyunt.
Saya U Ba Toke
U Ba Toke
I am very happy to hear that Saya U Ba Toke will be making the trip to the Bay Area. Saya U Ba Toke was our Math Saya in I.Sc.(A) at Yankin College in 1956 and I.Sc.(B) at Main University in 1957. He was a lecturer and Sayagyi U Kar who also taught us in 1957 was the Professor. He was a very good lecturer. I still cannot believe how he can write pages of notes on the blackboard in a very nice handwriting. I think he became Professor of Mathematics in 1958 when U Kar retired. I remember that in 1958 we had to request him for recommendations to apply for places in universities in the States. He gave me a great recommendation for which I am still very grateful. I met him again when he joined RIT as the Professor of Mathematics before I moved to UCC. The last time I saw him was some months back at the funeral of the father-in-law of Dr. Khin Maung Win (Met) and the father of Khin Than Nwe (T62).
Allen Htay
Allen Htay
Allen Htay was a brand new Saya when we joined the Engineering College in Leik Khone in 1958. I remember him teaching Engineering Drawing to the Chemical & Textile first year students like Khin Than Nwe (T62) and my high school friend Richard Than Se (ChE62). I met him again in August 1963 when we took the same ship SS Warickshire from Liverpool on the way back home.
Ko Tin Maung Nyunt
Tin Maung Nyunt
Ko Tin Maung Nyunt, Ko Ko Lay (UCC, GBNF), and Ko Than Pe (Chartered
Accountant, ADB) were also on the ship. We spent about two months on the
ship with about 4 weeks in Colombo. We played ping pong [table tennis]
and swam in the pool during the day. We played Bridge [card game] every
night after dinner with Ko Tin Maung Nyunt and Ko Ko Lay as partners and
myself partnering either Allen Htay or Ko Than Pe. We went on land at
Port Said (at the start of the Suez Canal), Port Sudan and Aden in the
Red Sea, and Colombo, Kandy and Nuwara Elyia in Sri Lanka. All of us
became very good friends.
On arrival home in 1963 Allen Htay
rejoined RIT in Gyogone. I was then assigned to the RIT Electrical
Engineering Department in January 1964. We were together again when Ko
Tin Maung Nyunt joined the Agricultural Engineering Department some
months later. Ko Tin Maung Nyunt was one of our regulars on the Saya
Football Team. We remained good friends as all of us stayed in the RIT
estate. Ko Tin Maung Nyunt then left for the US via Thailand. I joined
the UCC in 1971. Allen Htay then left for the US. The last time all of
us got together was in 1988 in the Bay Area.
I am also glad to
hear that my old colleagues from the EE Dept Ko Sann Tint (another Saya
Football Team regular) and Ko Sein Maung will be attending the reunion.
Please pass on my best regards to my Sayas, colleagues, friends,
students and all participants.
Congratulations to you, the organizers and to a successful REUNION.
Editor’s Notes
U Soe Paing was my mentor at RIT and UCC.
During my visits to Yangon, I paid respect to U Ba Toke. Sayagyi is a Phwa Bet of Rangoon University and the First RU Students’ Strike in December, 1920.
Saya Allen Htay (GBNF), Saya U Tin Maung Nyunt, U Ko Ko Aye (GBNF), Ko Thein Naing (Patrick) and I used to meet once a month.
Mother raised the family. She lived to 102 years. Stayed active by playing Mah Jong daily.
Spouse Ivy (GBNF) : In her memory, Ivan built a school in Kyaukme
Two daughters
Six grandchildren
RIT
Attended I.Sc(A) classes at Pathein.
Admitted to 2nd BE in Nov 1964
Graduated with Mechanical Engineering in 1969
While attending RIT, he had a private business selling Kyauk Me Laphet Chauk
Earned more than enough to pay for hostel fees and car expenses
Moved to USA
USA
Studied Masters in New York
PE (Professional Engineer) for New York and New Jersey
Entrepreneur
Golden Sponsor for SPZP-2000
Sponsored Naw Mu Mu Aye to attend SPZP-2007
Major donor for the 69er Health Care Fund
Donated PCs to YTU (via U Nyi Hla Nge)
Life time Platinum for Bridge Competitive Card Game
Play Accordion and Harmonica
Host
For several years, he hosted the annual RIT-UCC Gathering The timing was chosen to coincide with visits by Saya Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya U Soe Paing
Trip to Canada
Invited us in 2015. Organized a whirlwind trip to Canada to pay homage to Saya U Aung Khin in Windsor and Saya Dr. Aung Gyi in Napean, Ottawa. Provided car and gas. Drove part of the trip. The major portion of the trip was handled by Fred Thetgyi (M69). Visited Massachusetts (Host : Dr. Tun Aung Gyaw, EC69) and Connecticut (Host : U Toung / Tom, EC69) on the way back.
U Aung Khin Dr. Aung Gyi
In June 2018, he organized another trip to Canada for selected sayas (e.g. Dr. Tin Win, U Aung Myint) and alumni.
Founded MASTAA and served as CEO
Golden Sponsor
On the morning of October 5, 2000, Ivan called me and asked how he can support the “RIT Alumni International” Activities. He earlier donated $360 to cover the hard costs of running the http:/www.ex-rit.org web site for a year.
He had written a check of $1200. He would donate $1000 to the SPZP and $200 to the Alumni General Fund. When I thanked him, he said,
“I’m not donating to your pocket. I’m donating for a good cause. The time you’ve put in definitely much more than $1200. I want you guys to set up a formal organization and a permanent fund”.
He became a Golden Sponsor for SPZP-2000. There were five Golden Sponsors:
David Ko (U Tin Myint, M67, GBNF)
Ivan Lee (U Khin Maung Oo, M69)
Steeve Kay (U Thaung Sein, EC70, GBNF)
Benny Tan (Tan Yu Beng, M70)
U Maung Maung Than (M79)
Study & Work
Ivan wrote to Daniel Tint Lwin (M69), Saya U Aung Myint (M69) and KMZ (EC76, Web master).
I have been staying at East Brunswick, New Jersey, USA for a long time. EB is a small nice town between New York City (40 miles south) and Philadelphia (60 miles).
I got my MIME in 1976 from Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn, New York City. I hold both New York State and New Jersey State Professional Engineering (PE) licenses.
Back in 1974, I worked as a nuclear engineer in a Nuclear Power Plant. By 1982, I was working as a senior mechanical engineer at the major chemical/petrochemical plants. I performed planning, scheduling, design, specification, procurement, construction management, client interfacing, trouble shooting, etc. —
In 1988. I purchased the engineering and construction firm where I was chief engineer and operation manager.
In 1992 I purchased a garden apartment with 46 units and established a realty company.
In 1996 I purchased a co-generation power plant which produces power and steam/hot water to the hospitals, but this one was not doing great, so I gave up within two years.
I slowed down my engineering and construction business in 1998. The only business I am working part time is the real estate business. I own two office buildings and two single family houses. I have a beach house at the NJ shore and spend most summer there.
I have two adult daughters. The elder one graduated from Cornell University with Mechanical Engineering Degree and is working as a financial institution at Wall Street in NYC. The younger one graduated from an artist college and is doing photo for Amazon website advertisement in New York City. My wife is from Burma as well. We never returned there, since we immigrated.
I spend my time purchasing/selling stocks daily, managing the real estate business and playing Bridge [a card game]. That is my hobby. I am a Bronze Life Master in ACBL (American Contract Bridge League).
That is my life. I would like to add one more thing. When my wife and I came to USA, all we had was $60 plus $1200 air tickets loan from Pan Am.
Most of our classmates and friends are smart, intelligent, and willing to work. But a few have business mind to motivate or establish their wealth. I will talk with you more if you are interested.
Talking about donation : last year, I proposed to the Myanmar Ambassador in Washington, DC, to donate my engineering documents, books, technical catalogs, etc to Myanmar. The offer was not accepted.
Does RIT have email address? I’d like to email to the staff of RIT. I like to say “Hello” to Naw Mu Mu Aye (T69). I heard she is the Head of Textile Department at RIT.
His Philosophy
In another e-mail, Ivan wrote :
I have helped at least 75 relatives people immigrate to USA. I have sponsored at least 200 relatives, classmate, friends to USA without spending a penny to the lawyer. I had provided air tickets fees, lodging facilities, food, and transportation. I also helped most of them look for suitable jobs for most of them. I also arranged their children to go to school. This is not an easy assignment, need a huge heart to do that. My wife is of tremendous help in doing these projects. It took us more than 10 years on a consistent basis to do the projects.
I donated about $1,000,000 to my childhood school via Ko Aung Myint back in 1991/92. The school has 1000 students. They have named their assembly hall after me.
The message I’d like to offer is “When you are available, you should be able to contribute your assets (including knowledge, money, personal involvement) back to the society”.
My saya at RIT. He taught Mechanical Drawing and Strength of Materials.
Gave me rides to RIT in his white Zephyr. Several thought I was his nephew.
My cousin. His father is my mom’s elder brother. His mother is my dad’s elder sister.
Had many photo albums. He would show them to me and former students.
Several years ago, he has a Stroke. His family members hired nurses & assistants to speed up his recuperation.
His son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren provided him with tender, loving care.
His physical and mental health declined in his 90s.
He passed away peacefully after his 94th birthday.
Brief Bio
U Ba Than 2
Born on October 2, 1930.
He is the second among nine siblings.
Siblings : U Tin U, U Ba Than (GBNF), Dr. Daw Win Hlaing (Ruby), Daw Myint Thwe (GBNF), Dr. Myo Tint (GBNF), U Tin Htoon, U Myo Min, U Thaung Lwin, Daw Cho Cho Hlaing
Wedding of U Ba Than & Daw Mya Mya
Spouse : Daw Mya Mya
Son : U Ye Than (Winner Inn)
DIL : Daw Lwin Mar Oo
Grandchildren : Aung Myo Myint & Ei Khine
Family members
Matriculated from St. John’s Dio in 1947. Won Collegiate Scholarship.
In 1949, received Gold Medal for Highest Marks in I.Sc (Combined).
Bachelor in Mechanical Engineering from Imperial College, London University
Joined Faculty of Engineering as Assistant Lecturer
Colombo Plan Scholar to study Masters in Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College
Promoted to Lecturer
Retired as Professor
Early supporter of HMEE (History of Myanmar Engineering Education). Hosted inaugural meeting. Donated photos.
Invited former colleagues & students to his Birthday Soon Kyway
Donated almost all of the Garawa money to selected charities.
Passed away shortly after his 94th birthday.
Garawa
Paid respect to Saya U Ba Toke
Paying respect to U Ba Toke
By 69ers
U Aung Min (M69) & team would organize 69ers to pay respect to Saya around his Birthday.
Earlier events were at Winner Inn.
The photo below was taken at Saya’s new house.
69ers visiting Saya
By M75
Maurice Chee, U Win Khaing (GBNF) and several M75 had a reunion. They then visited Winner Inn to pay respect to Saya.
M75
78th Birthday in 2008
78th birthdayMessage
He distributed his Memoirs.
A page from his memoirs
82nd Birthday in 2012
82nd birthday in 2012Birthday Soon Kyway in 2012
90th Birthday in 2020
He received a Photo Album from his younger brother U Tin Htoon (A60).
Photo Album
Double Dana
He donated the Garawa money that he had received from the SPZPs to charities
Provided seed money for designing memorabilia to be given to sayas & sayamas attending SPZP-2000, commemorative T-shirts to the organizers and volunteers, and to raise fund by selling the surplus items.
Attended SPZPs in USA, Singapore and Yangon.
With Steeve Kay (Ko Thaung Sein, EC70)
Around 2019, he had medical problems. He could not travel far, but continued conducting his business & philanthropy from home.
Multiple projects to implement (including writing books), but he finally succumbed to Jara, Byadi & Marana.
May he rest in peace.
Best Friends Forever
69ers meet monthly for breakfast at Taw Win Hnin Sni (Royal Rose).
There was a pause during the pandemic. About 20 members passed away (mostly due to Covid).
Annual Dinner gatherings at Panda, M3 and U Aung Min’s former office in PWD compound
Celebrated Anniversaries in 1999, 2009, 2014 and 2019.
Pu Zaw Pwe in 2019Golden Jubilee of Graduation
They have gatherings to welcome 69ers from overseas. e.g. Daw Myint Myint (C69) hosted a lunch gathering at Kandawgyi Westin Park Hotel to welcome Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie, T69).
During my visits, U Ohn Khine (M70) gave me rides to SPZP & HMEE-2012 meetings and selected 69er gatherings.
With 69ers and Ko Ohn Khine (M70)
SPZP-2016
Both the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe and the Alumni Reunion & Entertainment were held at the Gyogone Campus.
Free food was provided for breakfast, lunch and dinner to all attendees.
Kudos to the Organizers, Sponsors, Donors, Volunteers and Supporters for making SPZP-2000 unique & memorable.
At SPZP-2016
All Mech Gathering
U Thant Zin (M82, GBNF, son of Saya U Sein Shan) invited me to All-Mechanical Gathering held at Dolphin.
U Hla Win and Daw Mar Mar Yee were co-emcee at the event.
At All Mech Gathering
Sayas & Sayamas at SPZP
U Tin U, Daw Khin Swe Aye (Emily), Daw Myint Myint Khaing at SPZP
U Tin U matriculated in 1946. He received BSCE from the University of Oregon and MSCE from Yale University. Upon his return, he taught part-time at the Civil Engineering Department at the RU Faculty of Engineering, University of Rangoon. He is the most Senior Past Captain of RUBC. He is the oldest of nine siblings. Two younger brothers Saya U Ba Than (Gold Medalist in 1948) and Dr. Myo Tint (3rd in Burma in 1952 Matric exam) have passed away.
U Ba Than (Leftmost)
Daw Khin Swe Aye graduated with Physics Honors in 1962 along with Daw May Than Nwe (GBNF) and my elder sister Daw Khin Than Nwe. Sad to learn that she had vision impairment.
Daw Myint Myint Khaing is the daughter of Arzani Mahn Ba Khaing. She transcribed the interview tapes recorded by her spouse Saya Dr. Khin Maung Swe (Tekkatho Maung Thin Char, GBNF) for the book on Sayagyi U Ba Toke and his life journey. Sayagyi gave autographed copies of the book to U Ohn Khine and me. Sayagyi is a Phwa Bet Taw of Rangoon University and the First RU Students’ Strike in 1920. Sayagyi passed away on 2nd December 2020 (a few days short of his Centennial birthday).
Co-founded “Myit Ma Kha International Trading Company” with her spouse U Htein Win (M66, GBNF)
Major donor to the 69er HCF
Received Appreciation Award at a 69er gathering
Award
Hosted selected 69er Gatherings
Donated K150 Lakhs to the YTU Library Modernization Project
Nan Khin Nwe, Daw Myint MyintDonation by Daw Myint Myint
Supported selected Charities
Daw Thaung Htwe
Daw Thaung Htwe
Recuperated
U Win Naing (Dicky Tan, GBNF)
Dicky Tan (GBNF)
Represented RIT in Rowing
Coxed the crew of 69ers : Fred, David, Ohn Maung and Sein Tun
Passed away in Singapore
U Myo Tun
U Myo Tun 1n 1979Uzin Bobby Myo Tun
Errol Than Tun, Myo Tun, Bobby, Ashin Pannagavesaka
Studied in UK twice : as a high schooler, and as a postgrad
Itinerant Bhikku
U Htay Aung
Htay Aung Htay Aung
Represented Burma in Water Polo at 5th SEAP Games in 1969
Spouse Than Than : SEAP & Asian Games Gold Medalist Sprinter
Aye Lwin (GBNF)
Mehm Aye Chan, Aye Lwin, Htay Aung
Secretary of RIT Mechanical Engineering Association
Secretary of RIT Annual Magazine.
Attended the 2015 RIT Alumni Reunion in Los Angeles.
U Myint Soe
Recovered from a Stroke
Myint SoeTin Maung Aye, Aung Min, Myint Soe
U Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF)
Kyaw Nyunt & Than HtayObituaryKyaw Nyunt & Han Sein
Represented RIT in Tennis along with Than Htay
Won the Inter-Institute Tournament
U Myo Nyunt
Saya U Kaung & Myo NyuntMyo Nyunt
Represented RIT in Soccer
Joint Secretary, RIT Track & Field Association
Mehm Ye Win
Ye Win & Han Tha Myint (PTC)
Secretary, RIT EE Association
U Myat Soe Lwin
Myat Soe Lwin
Alias : Sai Hwet (Dawei)
Spouse : sister of Yi Pinn (Maung Maung Kaung, GBNF)
U Tint Lwin (Danny)
Danny in SF
Retired Associate Professor of NTU
Attended SPZP-2000
Guitarist and Vocalist
Tin Myint (John, GBNF)
Tin Myint
RIT Luyechun for 4th BE
Represented RIT in Table Tennis
Showed Danny around SF Bay Area
Passed away in California
Badminton
RIT Badminton 1RIT Badminton 2
Saya U Thein Lwin (GBNF) : Manager
Sai Kham Pan : Burma Selected
Myint Sein (GBNF)
Bishnu Shahi (GBNF)
Basketball
Han Sein
Han Sein (GBNF)
Lyo Kyin Sein
Soe Win (Captain, GBNF)
Tommy (GBNF)
Hiking and Mountaineering
Win Lwin
Win Lwin
Rowing
Chit Po Po (GBNF)
Chit Po Po
Dicky Tan / Win Naing (GBNF)
Hla Min
Sein Myint
Sein Myint
Win Maung
Soccer
Aung Gyi Shwe (GBNF)
Aung Gyi Shwe (3rd from Left)
Myo Nyunt
Swimming
RIT Cross Lake Swimmers
Han Sein (GBNF)
Hla Kyaing
Htay Aung : Burma Selected
Jimmy Kyin (GBNF)
Moe Hein / Ajala
Sein Myint
Win Maung
Table Tennis
Tin Myint (GBNF)
Tennis
Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF)
Than Htay
Thaing
Tin Tun (GBNF)
Tin Tun
Tun Aung Gyaw
Tun Aung Gyaw
Track and Field
Aung Gyi Shwe (GBNF)
Khin Than Myint Tin
Myo Nyunt
Volleyball
Aye Thein
Edison, Saw
Khin Kyaw Nyein (GBNF)
Khin Kyaw Nyein
Maung Maung
Maung Maung
Myint Maung
Weightlifting
Aung Gyi Shwe (GBNF)
Jimmy Kyin (GBNF)
Khin Win (GBNF)
69er Health Care Fund
Aung Min (Chair)
Aung Min
Ko Shwe (Treasurer)
Ko Shwe
EC : Lower Burma, Upper Burma, Overseas
Donors : Large and Small
Major Donors : Daw Myint Myint, Ivan Lee (Khin Maung Oo), K K Wong (Sein Myint)
Sein Myint (4th from Left)Ivan (Left)
Photos from 69er Gatherings
Major Gatherings : 30th Anniversary in 1999, 40th Anniversary in 2009, Golden Jubilee of Admission to RIT in 2014, Golden Jubilee of Graduation in 2019
M69ers in 2009EE69ers in 2009C69ers in 2009T69ers & ChE69ers in 2009
Annual Dinner & Entertainment at M3 and Panda
Welcome parties at Shwe Bei, Western Park and Crystal Jade
Monthly Breakfast Gatherings : mostly at Taw Win Hnin Si (Royal Rose Restaurant)
Entertainers include Danny, Albert, Robert, 69ers & family, Guests
Over 40% of 69ers are GBNF. The GBNF list is maintained by Ko Aung Min and team.
Compiled for the HMEE Book with အုန်းခိုင် (M70) Ohn Khine
CD
HMEE စာအုပ် ကို RU စာကြည့်တိုက် မှာလှူ Donated HMEE book to Universities Central Library & YTU Library
Book Donation
Highlights
1964 မှာ 2nd BE တက်ခဲ့ Admitted to 2nd BE as Top student (Roll Number One)
2nd BE
လူရည်ချွန် — 1965 Summer (အင်းလေး) Selected Luyechun (Outstanding Student) to the Inlay Khaung Daing Camp in the Summer of 1965
Luyechun
Organizer, SPZP-2000 First RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe Received “Alumni Appreciation Award”
SPZP-2000 Organizers
Received three Alumni Appreciation Awards (a) at SPZP-2000 (b) from worldwide alumni in Aug 2016 (c) from Northern California RIT Alumni Association in Sep 2016
The photos were taken by several 69ers : Aung Min, Bobby Myo Tun (Ashin Pannagavesaka), Han Sein (Ah Pho Gyi, GBNF), Kyaw Min (Albert), Kyaw Nyunt (GBNF), Myo Nyunt, Sein Myint, Tin Aung Win (Oscar), Tin Maung Aye, Tin Htut (Harry), Tint Lwin (Danny), Zau Lai (Duwa) …
Types of Gatherings
Monthly Breakfast Gathering
Ad hoc Lunch Gathering to welcome alumni from overseas
Annual Dinner and Entertainment
Anniversaries : 30th Anniversary of Graduation in 1999, 40th Anniversary of Graduation in 2019, 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of Admission in 2014, 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of Graduation in 2019
New and Old — Now and Then
Lately
9 Sponsors — Record
Photographer — Tin Aung Win (Oscar)
Earlier
Some are no longer with us.
A Pho Gyi — Han Sein
Chit Pe
Thein Maung
Garawa to U Ba Than
Graduation
Time flies
Chit Pe, Kyaw Nyunt, Aung Gyi Shwe … are GBNF (Gone But Not Forgotten)
2014
2015
2017
2018
2019
Graduation Golden Jubilee
Dec 2022
August 2023
September အလှူရှင်
ဦးငွေထွန်း၊
ဦးတင်ရှိန်၊
ဦးသန်းဝင်း၊
ဦးချမ်းငြိမ်း၊
ဒေါ်ခင်သန်းမြင့်တင်၊
ဦးစောမြင့်နိုင်၊
ဦးဖေဟန်ထွန်း
U Zaw Win (Thailand)
Albert Kyaw Min
Dear RIT 69++friends
ဖိတ်ကြားအပ်ပါတယ်
September breakfast gathering သို့ မပျက်မကွက် ကြွရောက်ကြပါခင်ဗျား။
M69ers meet at Royal Rose Restaurant (Taw Win Hnin Si). The restaurant is owned by U Soe Nyunt (Old Paulian, GBNF).
They are joined by classmates from other disciplines. They include Civil (e.g. Ko Han Sein), Chemical (e.g. Ko Albert Kyaw Min), Electrical (e.g. Ko Shwe), Textile (e.g. Saw Yu Tint), Architecture (e.g. Uzin Bobby Myo Tun), …
There are hosts to celebrate events (Birthday, Anniversary, …).
Meeting for 69er Health Care Fund
I was invited to a meeting held at U Aung Min’s house. We had Mohinga.
Welcome gathering
Some gatherings took place at Kandawgyi Western Park. I attended a gathering hosted by Daw Myint Myint (C69) to welcome Daw Nyunt Nyunt Wai (Millie, T69).
Some gatherings take place the Royal Rose Restaurant. Daw Lin Lin Aung (T69, Singapore) hosted the Breakfast gathering to welcome her former classmates.
Anniversary gathering
In 1999, there was a gathering and mini-SPZP to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of Graduation. U Tint Lwin (Daniel, M69) and Daw Saw Yu Tint (Alice, T69) e-mailed me about the event. I informed the sayas and alumni in a Newsletter (which became known as RIT Alumni International Newsletter).
Sad to note that some organizers for that event (U Kyaw Than, U “NarYi” Sein Win …) are GBNF
In 2009, the group celebrated the 40th Anniversary.
In 2014, the group celebrated the Golden Jubilee (GJ) of Admission to the first ever 2nd BE in November 1964.
The true Golden Jubilee (50th Anniversary of Graduation) is planned for 2019)
Class of 70 and 71
The group is known as the Combined 1st BE Intake of 64 and 65.
The group has held monthly breakfast gathering (usually at Sein Hlyan) for two decades.
The Sein Hlyan restaurant was run by U Han Tun Maung (Old Paulian, GBNF), who was a multi-sports athlete. UHTM was active in Old Paulian’s Association (OPA), Kokkine Swimming Club, Archery, and Equestrian.
Class of 72
M72
M72 group is the most active in the Class of 72. It used to have lots of mini-gatherings.
The group decided to have less mini-gatherings and donate more to the RIT-related projects (such as Library Modernization).
The Group holds an annual Reunion and SPZP, where they invite all the eligible sayas and sayamas who have taught them. The Group also has honorary members from the other disciplines.
Mini-gathering in Southern California
U Ohn Kyaw (EP73) is a friend and disciple of his former classmate U Jotika. He visited Southern California and a side trip to the San Francisco Bay Area to hold Abhidhamma classes and discussion.
Mini-gathering in Los Angeles
The photo was taken at a mini-gathering. Attendees include U Win Htay (Walter, M70), Daw Thida Swe (Met72), U Ohn Kyaw (EP73) & spouse, Saya U Tin Htut (M60) and U Than Saung (M72).
There are now 280+ confirmed attendees (of which 250+ have paid and the rest saying that the “check is on the way”). The list is growing. Although we posted the invitations on the web, e-mailed to alumni that we know, and even sent invitation packages to several alumni by snail mail, almost every day, I get a message saying “I’ve just learnt that there is an ex-rit web site” or “I just got a fax from a friend about the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe and I’d like to know if there are any tickets left”.
There are some people who do not have Internet access. There are several who switch their ISPs and their e-mail addresses. There are a few people who do have computers but rarely open their e-mail box; if you send e-mail to them you’ll get “Mail Box Quota Exceeded”. For whatever reason, there are still people who are unaware that alumni from five decades will meet at the Embassy Suites hotel in Gateway Boulevard, South San Francisco on the evening of October 28, 2000. The family members will join the alumni in a picnic on October 29, 2000.
Our webmaster, KMZ, will come to the Bay Area on October 27, 2000. There will probably be lots of pre- and post- Reunion gatherings.
Will I be able to remember the 400 – 500 names (some alumni have 2 or even 3 names) of the attendees? Or as Myint Myint Sein (a) Diana (M70) says, “Will we be able to recognize our friends?” Our teachers used to say that they first recognize the best and the restless/energetic in the class. Then, gradually they focus on the quiet and the timid students.
It’s easier to remember people as a group. So, here we go:
CLASS OF 68
Ko Aung Khin (EP 68), formerly of EPC [spent most of his time at the Lawpita Hydro-electric Power Station], recently became a PE and a proud grandfather. He was known as the “LA Tha-gyee” (village head) since he knew a lot of people in the Los Angeles area. He was an EC member of the RIT Electrical Engineering Association, and a past Vice-President of BAPS.
His seating preference: We (Ko Aung Khin and Ma Win May) would like to sit together with our 1968 batch, Ko Tun Aung (a) Jeffrey (EC68) and his wife from LA, Ko Min Maung (EP68) and his wife from Seattle, and Saya U San Tint if it is possible.
Ko Tun Aung was EC1 [the roll numbers then were given in honor of merit]. His wife Ma Thuza was a well known movie actor.
When Saya U Chin Way (EE) first came to the US, Ko Tun Aung asked him to apply for a job at his department. As the story goes, the interviewer(s) asked if Saya knew anyone there. Saya said that he only knew Ko Tun Aung, who used to be student back home. The interview ended there and then.
Congratulations, Ko Tun Aung for paying back the metta and cetana of his saya(s). Sad to say, Saya U Chin Way had passed away.
Ko Myat Htoo (C68), co-chair, Steering Committee, wrote:
Thank you so much for sending me Krishna Rao’s phone no. I spoke with him in length yesterday and gave him my other classmates’ phone nos. He left Burma right after graduation in ’68. My last night’s phone call to him was our first contact in 32 years. I found out that he got divorced from his wife of 18 years recently and just had a heart bypass surgery a month ago and he is still recuperating.
Ko Myat Htoo (Civ 68) joined the Civil department upon graduation. He is now a Branch Chief with CalTrans (California Transportation). He is serving his second term as President of TBSA. He will be hosting Saya Dr. Aung Gyi and Saya Dr. San Hla Aung (C58).
CLASS OF 70
Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP 70) writes: Will it be possible to seat Ko Ye Myint (EP72) and spouse, Ko Myo Khin (C70) and spouse, with me and my wife?
Ko Zaw Min was Roll No. 1 for the ’64 intake of the first ever 1st BE and was a “Luyechun” (Outstanding Student). The “Luyechun” project started the year before for middle school and high school. It was extended to the University students in the Inlay Khaung Daing summer camp in 1965.
Ko Zaw Min was a top student in EP. Ko Thaung Sein (a) Steeve Kay and Charlie Tseng were the top of the EC class.
After relocating to the US, Ko Zaw Min switched to Electronics specializing in Component Design. He has relocated from New York to the Bay Area.
Ko Ye Myint is Saya U Ba Toke’s son. One of Ko Ye Myint’s sons is an EE working in Singapore. Another is expected to graduate from AU [formerly ABAC] also with a degree in EE.
Saya U Ba Toke retired from AU last year. He will be attending the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. His sponsors include Ko Zaw Min, Ko Maung Maung Than (M79), Ko Mya Thwin (Philip, EE75), Saya Allen Htay (C58) and Saya U Tin Htut (M60).
Ko Myo Khin (C70) and Ma Mya Mya Nwe (C73) will attend. They will be staying at the Embassy Suites. Ko Myo Khin, along with the late Ko Win Thein (M67), were among the top organizers at RIT. Ko Myo Khin joined the Civil department upon graduation. He later taught at the Japanese universities.
The following is a message forwarded by Ko Zaw Win (C70) who will not be able to attend the Reunion:
Dear Ko Myo Khin
How are you and your family? I think both of you must be counting your days for the trip to US for the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. It’s a rare and a great occasion for all the graduates of RIT who were out of the mother country for different reasons to meet at this ‘Pwe” and for a reunion.
Unfortunately circumstances do not allow me to participate in the grand occasion. Please send my greetings to all our friends when you meet them.
At present in Sydney, Australia the whole town is bubbling with Olympic activities while I am trying to finish the three project reports which were due last month. Sometimes I really long for those old times where we can simply lay on our backs and enjoy the slow flow of events with ample of free time. I really now understand that “Life is a struggle” everywhere. Life is also short and enjoy it while you can, with metta towards others.
CLASS OF 74
Ma San San Swe (San San Nwe, EC 74) wrote:
Would there be any seating arrangements? Is it possible to ask for seating with a few of our friends in one table? They are :-
1. Yee Yee Win; San Francisco 2. Ko Tin Aung Win & Dorothy; Sydney, Australia 3. Suzie, husband [Saya U Myat Thwin] & son [Raymond]; Houston, Texas 4. Ko Myint Swe & San San; Cupertino
Thanks, Sansan
For the 1st BE intake of ’68 (mostly graduated in ’74), Ko Htay Lwin Nyo was No. 1 followed by Ma San San, Ko Ne Win Maw, Ko Myint Swe, Sai Aung Thurein in the top of the class.
An ode to Dr. Htay Lwin Nyo (part-time Professor, SJSU) can be found in the “HLN Memorial Pages”.
Ko Myint Swe (EP74) and Ma San San moved last Thanksgiving to the Bay Area. They have both volunteered for the Organizing Committee of the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. They hosted a lunch meeting some time back. Ko Myint Swe works for AMD and has to travel frequently to Austin, Texas, and elsewhere. He enjoys playing golf and tennis.
Ko Tin Aung Win is a brother-in-law of Saya U Myo Win (M65). He will be bringing a letter and photos from Saya U Myo Win. Dorothy is an RIT associate. She is the younger daughter of the late Sayagyi U Kyaw Tun (EE).
Daw Yee Yee Win was shocked when he learned about HLN’s untimely death. She was one of the donors to the HLN Memorial Fund along with the Swe(s) and Ma Suzie.
Ma Suzie Lin (formerly Suzie Yea) wrote that she could hear the laughing and talking in the RIT corridors as she browsed the ex-rit web site pages. Her letter to the Editor and Web Master is straight from the heart. Saya U Myat Thwin (Kuesan Lin, ChE66) won several scholastic awards from the US even when he was studying at RIT. Not wishing to miss the big Reunion — thanks in part to the phone call by Saya U Maung Maung7 (George, ChE66) — the Lin(s) decided to buy three tickets to bring along Raymond.
With metta, Hla Min
_____________________________________________ Countdown to the Reunion (2) _____________________________________________
Note : I posted 64 “Countdown to the Reunion” and 36 “Post-Reunion” for SPZP-2000. Countdown (2) was posted on September 19, 2000
Dear Sayas and Colleagues,
Since the alumni attending the Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw span five decades, we need help from representative(s) of each decade to highlight that era and to introduce the alumni. I’ll try my best to give an overall demographics of the alumni attending the first ever Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwe.
Saya H Num Kok
Saya H. Num Kok (Civil) and Saya U Ba Toke (Maths) are the most senior sayas [by age] among those attending the Saya Pu Zaw Pwe. They also taught most of the sayas and senior alumni. Two brothers of Saya U Num Kok are also alumni. H. Num Fatt has not registered for the Reunion, but H. Num Pon (a) Saya U Myint Lwin (C61) will be at the Reunion. For many years, Saya U Num Kok acted as line judge at the RUBC8 regattas. Saya U Myint Lwin rowed for the Faculty of Engineering.
Saya U Ba Toke
Saya U Ba Toke taught mathematics to the engineering students. Saya later served as Professor of Mathematics at the Rangoon University, Rector at MASU, and as Professor of Mathematics at RIT. He retired last year from Assumption University (formerly ABAC), Bangkok, Thailand. While at RIT, Saya U Ba Toke chaired numerous organizations including “Thu-khu-ma a-nu-pyin-nya” (Fine arts) and sports.
The sponsors of Saya U Ba Toke include Saya U Tin Htut (M60), Saya Allen Htay (C58), Ko Zaw Min Nawaday (EP70), Ko Maung Maung Than (M79), and Ko Mya Thwin (Philip, EE75).
E-mail I received earlier from Saya U Myint Lwin
Dear Hla Min:
Thank you for your e-mail and the invitation to the RIT Reunion. It should be a memorable event. I will put the date in my calendar. I taught at RIT as Assistant Lecturer in CE from June 1961 to October 1962.
I visited RIT and the Rangoon University Boat Club in March 1999. RIT was closed at that time, but I was able to visit with Rector of RIT and Head of Civil Engineering Department. I look forward to the event. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Have a great day!
Myint Lwin Structural Design Engineer FHWA
Engineer Athletes
The engineering students are known for their athletic prowess. Here is a sampling from the attendees of the Reunion:
Saya U Tin Htut (M60, Past RUBC Captain and Gold)
U Tin Htoon (A60, Past RUBC Captain and Gold) won numerous trophies at the RUBC regattas, the National Championships, FEARA (Far East Amateur Rowing Association) and ARAE (Amateur Rowing Association of the East) regattas — Venables Bowls for Coxless Pairs in Calcutta 1958, and Willingdon Trophy for Coxed Fours in Colombo 1960. He won a silver medal for sailing in the SEAP games.
Ko Htein Win (Richard Taw, “Chauk Pay”, M70) tended the shallow end goal for the RIT water polo team. He also represented RIT in rowing.
Ko Htaik San (Henry Kao, M81) and Ko Thura Thant Zin (M76) are RUBC Golds. They won gold medals at FEARA regattas.
Among those who represented RIT include Saya U Myint Lwin (C61), U Than Soe (RUBC Gold, M63), Ko Khin Maung Lay (T 68), Ko Khin Maung Zaw (EC76), …
Saya Dr. San Hla Aung served as timekeeper and/or starter at the RUBC regattas.
Ko Khin Maung Zaw (EC76) and Ko Thura Thant Zin (M76) played as last defender and goalie of the RIT Hockey team. KMZ served as TTZ’s coach in hockey. TTZ served as KMZ’s coach in rowing.
Ko Kyaw Sint (Edward Tai, T70) is a multi-discipline sportsman. He was the Junior National Champion in tennis, a Full Green in rowing, and University First Eleven in soccer.
Ko Jimmy Kyin (GBNF, T69), Ko Thein Aung (Met 72) and Ko Than Htike (M71) represented RIT in the weightlifting and bodybuilding contests. A picture of the youthful “Mr. University” can be seen in the “Photo Gallery”.
Ko Khin Maung Lay (T68) represented RIT in track and field, soccer and rowing. He was a member of the University [Second] Eleven.
Count down to SPZP-2012 (15) __________________________________________________
Saya U Moe Aung wrote :
Dear U Hla Min
This is with reference (Update Sept 5, 2012) to your emotional feelings about not being a Saya at RIT and people being not aware of you as a Post Master and an Editor.
It is very natural that with the generation gap growing wider and wider with each passing decade, the middle-aged or the younger people will definitely not- or not wish to- know who their preceding generations are and how they fared or are faring.
Only with the exception of a few who possess strong desires to master some language (e.g. English, Burmese) and to acquire in-depth knowledge and writing skills to become a writer or poet, I believe that not many wish to take up interest in these fields.
Please correct me if my viewpoint is wrong. Since we are living in a modern hi-tech world, especially in capitalist countries, most people tend to chase after monetary gains first and place others last.
But, people who know you will not hesitate to shower their praise on you, because they acknowledge that you have sacrificed a vast portion of your time and energy throughout the years to get RITians connected and feel at home. If I were sitting near or at the same dinner table as you, I am sure I would have done the same thing like Saya Dr Myo Khin and Saya Dr Soe Thein did.
Since I did not see you at the SPZP 2007 dinner night, I thought that it was my duty to call on you the next day and that was why I saw you off at the Airport with Ko Tin Aung Win at the wheel. I remembered that day because it was raining heavily and I was soaked.
For me, U Hla Min, you deserve to be deemed a writer and a poet, because you don’t need to write hundreds to become one. There were some instances of some famous poets who wrote only a few poems in their lifetime.
My memory doesn’t permit me to recall distinctly but only vaguely the ones you wrote. During that period I myself wrote some poems in English and they got published in “The Guardian” Magazine.
We all know you were a Saya at UCC, DCS and ICST. I would like to take this opportunity to mention that my brother-in-law Ko Hla Min (same name) was your former pupil. The last time when you visited Singapore, I heard Ko Hla Min went to meet you.
Well, U Hla Min, this is Life! and whatever will be, will be (Que Sera Sera).
But as you mentioned, let us share our memories of our beloved Swel Daw Yeik with never ending love and passion.
Let us embrace SPZP 2012 Yangon together!
Regards [Saya U] Moe Aung
Editor’s notes:
Thanks Saya for your kind words.
Saya’s mentors include the famed Sayagyi Daung Nwe Swe. In his student days and later as a faculty member, Saya not only served as the [Chief] Editor, but also supervised the printing of the Sar Saungs and Magazines. Saya has published poems in both Burmese and English. Saya’s recent contributions include Chair of SPZP-2002 and SPZP-2010, and the Chief Editor and/or Publisher of the commemorative issues of the “Swel Daw Yeik Sar Saung” and “Swel Daw Yeik Magazine”.
Sayagyi U Kyaw Tun, Saya U Myo Kyi, and Saya U Moe Aung are some EE sayas, who taught “Principles of Electrical Engineering” to non-EE students.
Countdown to SPZP-2012 (81) ____________________________________________
Attended the SPZP-2012 Main Committee Meeting presided by U Win Khaing.
To minimize traffic congestion and parking problems, attendees to SPZP-2012 are requested to car-pool, take buses or taxis.
3000 – 4000 attendees are expected for the morning event.
There will be four groups of sayas and sayamas for the “paying respect” ceremony.
2500 or more attendees are expected to attend the evening event. Tickets are available at K15000 per person. Dinner buffet and entertainment (by the famed Swel Daw Yeik Troupe) are provided.
Review of the Final Draft for the “History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar” has begun. The printing is scheduled on or around December 16, 2012.
Two Cartoon Boxes will be on display at SPZP-2012. Commemorative “RIT Cartoon Collection” will be on sale at K2000. Several RIT Cartoon Sayas have volunteered to demo their expertise.
The Swel Daw Yeik Magazine committee will have a meeting on or around December 16, 2012. The team is headed by U Saw Linn (C 71) and includes distinguished writers such as Ma Sandar, N. Jar Thaing, and Maung Sein Win (Padeegone).
Copies of 23 vintage “RIT Annual Magazines” will also be on sale. Each magazine costs K3000. The whole set is available at K65000.
Countdown to SPZP-2012 (82) ____________________________________________
Saya U Maung Maung (George, ChE66, President, NorCal RITAA)
Saya U Myat Htoo (C68, Vice President)
Saya Dr. Tin Aung (K. C. Chiu, ChE 63)
U Hla Min (EC69)
U Benny Tan (M70)
Saya U Thein Aung (James, Met72)
U Robert Hla Thein (M72)
Daw San San Nyunt (Sandra, M76)
U Nyunt Than (M86)
Saya U Maung Maung has requested U Win Khaing (M 75, Chair, SPZP-2012; President, MES) to have a meeting at 3:30 p on December 29, 2012.
U Thaung Sein (Steeve Kay, EC70)
He is a Multiple SPZP Sponsor at the highest level).
He will give a 5-minute presentation/announcement at SPZP-2012.
He provided the “seed money” (US$3000+) for SPZP-2000.
He has pledged US$5000 for SPZP-2012.
His other charitable donations include “Relief for Cyclone Nargis victims” (via CABA), “Helen and Steeve Kay Health Care Fund for RIT Sayas and Sayamas”, Golden (and above) sponsorship for all the RIT Grand Reunion and Saya Pu Zaw Pwes,
U Yu Beng (Benny Tan, M70)
He is a Multiple SPZP Sponsor)
He will also attend SPZP-2012
He co-chaired the Working Committee with U Hla Myint Thein (Maurice Chee, M 75) for SPZP-2000.
He designed the SPZP Banner, and the commemorative T-shirt, mug for SPZP-2000.
He is currently enjoying his third career as a proud grandfather taking care of the grand kids.
Sayas and Sayamas
Most sayas and sayamas from overseas and out of town will converge to Yangon around December 26 – 28.
Some have accepted the two-night stay (for December 29 and 30) provided by the SPZP-2012 organizers/committees/sponsors.
Sayagyi U Aung Khin (M) and Saya U Tin Htut (M 60) will stay at Winner Inn. Sayagyi U Ba Than (M) will welcome them personally at the air port before taking them to Winner Inn
Main events
Main events for SPZP-2012 will be held on December 30, 2012.
Morning: Saya Pu Zaw Pwe (paying respect to four tiers/groups of sayas and sayamas) in the RIT/YIT/YTU Gyogone Campus
Lunch (probably Birayani/Danbauk and refreshments) will be provided to all attendees
Some souvenirs will be provided to the “registered” attendees
Exhibition booths: photos, cartoon boxes, vintage RIT magazines, list of sponsors/volunteers, ….
Items on sale:
“History of University Engineering Education in Burma/Myanmar” by Saya U Aung Hla Tun and Ah Phwe,
Commemorative issue of “SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE” by U Saw Linn (C 71) and Ah Phwe,
RIT Cartoons by U Myint Pe (M 72) and Ah Phwe
Souvenirs (ball pens, key chains, calendars, …)
Evening:
Reunion Dinner at Convention Center on Min Dhamma Road
Ticket: K15000 per person
Buffet dinner
Group of 10 sayas/alums may request to be seated at the same table
Entertainment (include the famed SWEL DAW YEIK AH NYEINT, …)
Special request: Please “car-pool” or take public transportation to minimize traffic congestion and parking problems.
Volumes 1 – 3 of the RIT Annual Magazine were published during Sayagyi U Yone Moe’s tenure; Volumes 4 – 7 were published during Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi’s tenure; and Volumes 8 – 16 were published during Sayagyi U Khin Aung Kyi’s tenure.
Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi served as Chief Editor for the first three volumes. Saya U Aung Hla Tun served as Chief Editor for the next four volumes. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) served as Chief Editor for nine volumes.
Seven years would pass without the publication of RIT Magazine.
The name “SWEL DAW YEIK” first came into prominent use in 1970 as a synonym for RIT and the Engineering Colleges and Institutes. Rangoon University was established in 1920 and the Golden Jubilee was celebrated in 1970. I had a minor role as a volunteer on the “Zay Nay Yar Cha Htar Ye Committee”. Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi (then Professor of Civil Engineering) and Saya U Thet Lwin (then teaching Burmese at the Institute of Economics) had major roles on the Main/Preparation Committee. Later, they would rejoin forces as Rector and Registrar of RIT.
I was Editor of the Commemorative RIT Alumni International Newsletter for SPZP-2000. Saya U Moe Aung was Editor/Publisher of the Commemorative SWEL DAW YEIK SAR SAUNG for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007, and SPZP-2010. Saya printed my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” as the back cover for the 2002 Sar Saung and another poem “SWE DAW YEIK” for the 2007 Sar Saung. Saya also renamed my article about “A Short and Sad Clip : EE Sayas” and printed in the 2010 Sar Saung.
Saya suggested the name SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE for SPZP-2012. The 400-page magazine should quench the literary thirst of the sayas, sayamas, and alums. Autographed copies of the magazines will be available on or before SPZP-2012.
Mark your calendars for December 30, 2012 for the grandest SPZP ever.
Countdown to SPZP-2012 (88) _________________________________________________
Volumes 1 – 3 of the RIT Annual Magazine were published during Sayagyi U Yone Moe’s tenure; Volumes 4 – 7 were published during Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi’s tenure; and Volumes 8 – 16 were published during Sayagyi U Khin Aung Kyi’s tenure.
Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi served as Chief Editor for the first three volumes. Saya U Aung Hla Tun served as Chief Editor for the next four volumes. Saya U Moe Aung (Tekkatho Moe War) served as Chief Editor for nine volumes.
Seven years would pass without the publication of RIT Magazine.
The name “SWEL DAW YEIK” first came into prominent use in 1970 as a synonym for RIT and the Engineering Colleges and Institutes. Rangoon University was established in 1920 and the Golden Jubilee was celebrated in 1970. I had a minor role as a volunteer on the “Zay Nay Yar Cha Htar Ye Committee”. Sayagyi Dr. Aung Gyi (then Professor of Civil Engineering) and Saya U Thet Lwin (then teaching Burmese at the Institute of Economics) had major roles on the Main/Preparation Committee. Later, they would rejoin forces as Rector and Registrar of RIT.
I was Editor of the Commemorative RIT Alumni International Newsletter for SPZP-2000. Saya U Moe Aung was Editor/Publisher of the Commemorative SWEL DAW YEIK SAR SAUNG for SPZP-2002, SPZP-2007, and SPZP-2010. Saya printed my poem “SAYA PU ZAW PWE” as the back cover for the 2002 Sar Saung and another poem “SWE DAW YEIK” for the 2007 Sar Saung. Saya also renamed my article about “A Short and Sad Clip : EE Sayas” and printed in the 2010 Sar Saung.
Saya suggested the name SWEL DAW YEIK MAGAZINE for SPZP-2012. The 400-page magazine should quench the literary thirst of the sayas, sayamas, and alums. Autographed copies of the magazines will be available on or before SPZP-2012.
Mark your calendars for December 30, 2012 for the grandest SPZP ever.
128 (40% of the 69ers) have passed away. They are GBNF (Gone But Not Forgotten).
Some 69ers (e.g U Aye Thein) lost their spouses.
Some 69ers have medical conditions.
69ers celebrated 30thAnniversary of Graduation (in 1999), 40th Anniversary of Graduation (in 2009), Golden Jubilee of Admission (in 2014), Golden Jubilee of Graduation (in 2019).
During the pandemic, the Monthly Breakfast Gatherings were suspended.
Hope there will be regular gatherings as well as Annual Dinner & Entertainment and more Anniversaries.
Kudos to the Sponsors, Donors, Organizers & Volunteers for the 69er activities.
On June 22, 2025 Mehm Aye Chan @ Ohn Mg (M69) donated K10 Lakhs to the 69er HCF. The donation was accepted by Daw Myint Myint on behalf of the HCF Committee.